Maruti Suzuki To Offer Automatic Gearbox Option On Most Models By 2020

Commenting on the plans, MSI Executive Director R&D C V Raman told PTI, "Such technologies (two pedal technologies, including AGS, CVT and AT) are getting popular in the country. Most of our models will have them by 2020,"

Maruti offers the AGS technology on the Alto K10, Wagon R, Celerio, Ignis and Dzire. While the Baleno is equipped with the CVT gearbox, the Ciaz sedan and the Ertiga MPV comes with an AT gearbox.

He said that the capacity has been increased to manufacture automatic gearbox technology and has also opted for localisation of parts in order the make the automatic variants affordable.

The company feels that the response for AGS has been positive, Raman added, "Our experience on AGS has been quite positive. It accounts for over 40 percent sales in Celerio, 13 percent in Wagon R, 15 percent in Alto, 26 percent in Ignis,"

Apart from bringing in more automatic variants, the company which holds over 47 percent market share in India, is also working to make its cars better in terms of fuel efficiency and safety equipment.

Maruti will also upgrade its engines to meet the corporate average fuel efficiency (CAFE) norms in India. This engine upgrade will be for the A and B segment which largely includes the entry-level hatchbacks and sub-compact sedans. However, for other segments, the company is looking to bring new platforms.

The company is also working on making its entire product portfolio BS-VI emission norms compliant by April 2020. Also, it is working at meeting safety norms.