Ensuring compliance with stricter emission norms is becoming a costly affair for carmakers. It is prompting OEMs to shift tofully electricor hybrids, especially in developed markets. The latest casualty is Hyundai i10, which will no longer be available in Europe and the UK. Lets check out more details on these developments.
Hyundai i10 discontinued in Europe and UK
While some units of the i10 may still be available at dealerships, it is reported that no fresh orders are being accepted. i10 was manufactured at Hyundais facility in Turkey. This plant will now be upgraded for the production of an upcoming EV. This move is in line with Hyundais broader strategy to increase electrification.
Similar to the Indian market, the Hyundai i10 is one of the popular options in Europe. In the UK, the i10 was first introduced in 2008. Cumulative sales have crossed 3.7 lakh units, making the i10 one of the bestselling entry-level models. Even though i10 has a strong sales record, Hyundai has stated that there are currently no plans to introduce a direct ICE replacement for the hatch.
After discontinuation of i10, the most accessible Hyundai option for buyers in the UK is Inster EV. As compared to the i10 that was priced at 18,350 (Rs 22.68 lakh), the Inster EV costs 5,500 (Rs 6.79 lakh) more. However, budget-oriented buyers in the UK still have a comparable option in the form of Kia Picanto. This hatch is available at a starting price of 16,745 on-road (Rs 20.70 lakh).
Other options like the Fiat 500 and Toyota Aygo X have transitioned to hybrid powertrains. They are now priced significantly higher and may not appeal to buyers in the traditional budget city car segment. With emission norms getting more stringent in Europe, it is unlikely that the i10 will make a comeback in Europe or the UK.
Hyundai i10 India sales
While the i10 has been discontinued in Europe and the UK, there dont seem to be any such plans for the Indian market. In India, we have a bigger version on sale, called the Grand i10 Nios. It has been one of thepopular Hyundai carsin India since the time it was launched. Earlier this year, the i10 in India achieved a major milestone of surpassing cumulative sales of 3.3 million units.
More than 2 million units were sold in India, whereas the rest were exported to more than 140 countries globally. Export markets include Mexico, South Africa, Peru and Chile. In India, the i10 NIOS is currently ranked the 5th bestselling Hyundai car. Its contribution to Hyundais monthly sales is close to 10%. It competes with rivals such as Maruti Suzuki Swift, Tata Tiago and Maruti Ignis.
Powering the Hyundai i10 NIOS in India is a 1.2-litre petrol engine, generating 83 PS and 113.8 Nm of peak torque. Transmission choices include 5-speed manual and Smart Auto AMT. It is also available with CNG, where the output is 69 PS and 95.2 Nm. i10 CNG is offered with only a 5-speed manual transmission. It is available in India at a starting price of Rs 5.55 lakh.
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