Italian luxury carmaker Maserati is optimistic about India's potential to become one of its top ten global markets in the mid-term, driven by the country's growing number of entrepreneurs, according to Philippe Claverol, the company’s Head of Overseas Markets.
The company, which on Friday launched its GranTurismo model with prices starting at ₹2.72 crore, is also assessing the feasibility of introducing its electric vehicle (EV) range in India.
“Maserati is a luxury brand, so we don’t aim for large volumes. A significant market for us is one where we sell 500 cars a year... In the mid-term, in a few years, I believe we can achieve this in India,” Claverol told PTI during the launch event.
However, Claverol emphasised that volume is not "an objective in itself" for Maserati. He expressed confidence that India could become one of Maserati’s top ten markets globally in the coming years. Currently, North America, Italy, Switzerland, China, Japan, Australia, Taiwan, and the UAE are Maserati's top markets, with India remaining a small player, having sold fewer than 50 units last year.
Despite the low volume, Claverol noted that India is an important market for Maserati. “It is a land of entrepreneurs. A vast majority, 80 per cent of our customers in India are entrepreneurs,” he said.
India’s appreciation for luxury products aligns well with Maserati’s brand, Claverol added, indicating strong future potential. To strengthen its presence in India, Maserati is expanding its sales network.
The company currently has a dealership in Mumbai and inaugurated a new one in New Delhi on Friday, with plans to open another in Bengaluru later this year, Claverol said.
“We see that the North India market is actually bigger than the Mumbai market, and we also believe Bengaluru is the third pillar. This dealership expansion is driven by our desire to be present where the market demand is,” he explained.
Regarding the potential launch of electric vehicles in India, Claverol mentioned that Maserati is exploring the introduction of its Folgore electric range. The company is evaluating market conditions, training requirements, pricing strategies, and charging infrastructure before making a decision.
“We will, with our partners, analyse the market, train our people and technicians, and build the right offer, including pricing and charging solutions. Once ready, we will look at the pricing and aim to launch the Folgore range,” Claverol said.
While he did not specify a timeline for the EV launch, Claverol remarked, “The sooner, the better. The cars are available.”
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