Japanese utility vehicle (UV) maker Isuzu Motor India on Wednesday launched its BS-VI vehicles. The launch was deferred because of the global outbreak of the pandemic.

The company rolled out the BS-VI compliant D-Max Regular Cab and D-Max S-Cab on Wednesday. Isuzu also launched a new variant the D-Max Super Strong with a 1,710 kg payload.

Isuzu Motors’ India portfolio now comprises the D-Max Regular Cab High-Ride with flat deck, D-Max Regular Cab-Chassis, S-Cab Standard-Ride, S-Cab High-Ride and the new D-Max Regular Cab Super Strong.

The D-Max range with 1,710 kg payload will be available for Rs 8.38 lakh (ex-Mumbai) and the S Cab range will be available for Rs 9.82 lakh.

On the delay in the launch, a company spokesperson said: “The global outbreak of the pandemic affected all the plans, including the BS-VI engine development process. With the disruptions on the supplier ecosystem and stabilisation of the production process of the BS-VI D-Max range, we took time to ensure that everything was up to expectations.”

Icra outlook

Credit rating agency Icra continues to have a negative outlook on the industry.

Unlike the Chinese automobile market that witnessed a V-shaped recovery, India is witnessing a slow paced recovery, said Ashish Modani, vice-president, Icra.

“Car purchase is looked as a discretionary purchase in India. Income levels in India are far lower than China and in an atmosphere of uncertainty, purchases are going to be deferred,” said Modani.