Honda Launches Civic Hybrid in India for 2008

Honda will launch the Civic Hybrid in India in 2008 according to M. Takedagawa, president and chief executive of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd.

Takedagawa made his announcement at an auto show in the Indian capital. That will make Honda the first company to sell hybrid cars inside of India. This may be a PR move, since analysts expect sales to be limited to about several hundred units a year.

"For the time being, we will concentrate on the Civic hybrid only," Takedagawa said, adding the car would not significantly contribute to sales.

"We are bringing it to showcase the latest technology to India and to give you the physical experience," he said.

Honda is also looking to invest $255 million in a second Indian plant by the end of 2009. The plant is located in the western state of Rajasthan.

Source: Reuters and Honda to Launch Civic Hybrid in India in 2008