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Harman Audio Enters India - Signs Up AR Rahman
The Harman Audio system is famous for its crisp and clear sound quality. It is being sold under several brand names such as JBL, AKG and Harman-Kardon. Harman has a long list of carmakers who are its clients. They are BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Daimler, Toyota, Fiat SpA, General Motors, Hyundai and Ferrari.
The company is now looking at Indian carmakers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki to expand its business. Dinesh C Paliwal, chairman, Harman International while speaking about the company's initiative said: “ The company has traditionally invested approximately seven-10 per cent from sales in research and development activities globally. Now, our plan is to invest tens of millions of dollars in engineering in India, and develop audio systems that would suit the local consumer's price requirements."
Harman will be competing against brands such as Bosch, Yamaha, Bose, Panasonic and Sony. It has said it will be developing new inexpensive audio systems to suite the requirements of the Indian market.
The company will soon build its own manufacturing facility in India. Mr Paliwal said: “We are looking to set up a manufacturing facility in India, and are ready to invest up to $100 million. However, right now, we are still scouting for places. We will start full production within eight-nine months of deciding the location."
We can expect some India specific premium audio systems from Harman soon. It has already signed up AR Rahman as its brand ambassador. We will soon see some TV commercial featuring the music composer for Harman's JBL brand.
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