India’s leading Utility vehicle manufacturer Mahindra and Mahindra unveiled the Scorpio hybrid at Detroit in USA. The Hybrid version of the popular SUV Scorpio was developed under the Sustainable Mobility Solutions Programme undertaken by the company. The programme aims to develop more fuel efficient eco-friendly cars and other vehicles.

Speaking in the occasion, the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Mahindra Group Mr. Anand Mahindra said “We have committed ourselves for aiding cleaner environment while creating eco-friendly cars and customer satisfaction. Mahindra’s diesel hybrid SUV is suitable for driving in crowded cities as well as for the off-road activities.

The company has planned to launch the Scorpio hybrid in Indian market and later export it to overseas markets. Reiterating this move, the President (automotive sector) of Mahindra and Mahindra Mr. Pawan Goenka said “the diesel-hybrid SUV will be introduced in Indian market first. It is likely to hit the Indian roads by this year end. The overseas market will be catered after the demand from domestic market has stabilised.” He refused to divulge the exact date of release in Indian market. Talking about the Sustainable Mobility Solution Programme, he said that hybrid is the nearest available solution for reducing pollution and increasing fuel efficiency.

M&M is already developing technologies and has undertaken research and development in this line.  The company has already developed hydrogen-powered three wheeler cargo vehicle Hy-Alfa, which is claimed to be first of its kind in the world.  The company is also likely to launch a fleet of hybrid taxis and micro-hybrid vehicles before the onset of monsoon this year.

With this launch, Mahindra and Mahindra has become the first company to launch a hybrid passenger car in India.