All-new Nissan Micra to be launched in Thailand this month
The new Nissan Micra (or March in some markets) will be launched in Thailand at the Bangkok Auto Show on March 26, barely a month after the supermini’s world debut at Geneva. Nissan Motor Thailand (NMT) also announced that production has started and the March will be the first model offered for sale under Thailand’s “eco-car” program, created to encourage the development of energy-efficient vehicles.
Designed as a “world car” for both mature and emerging markets, the Micra sits on a new platform and will come with a new 78 bhp/108 Nm 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine. Dealers have opened their order books, and delivery will start in a few weeks for the five-speed manual variant. Those who opt for the CVT will have to wait till June. Local prices range from 375,000 baht to 537,000 baht.
Thailand will join China, India and Mexico as manufacturing hubs for the Micra, and should be the source for Singapore bound cars. NMT will export the March to countries in the Asian and Oceania markets, according to Toshiyuki Shiga, COO of Nissan Motor Co.
Now, what’s this eco car thing all about? To further boost Thailand’s appeal as “Detroit of the East” the government is rewarding eco car manufacturers with a 50% cut in excise duty, no income tax for eight years and zero import duty for factory machinery imports. To qualify, an eco car has to achieve at least 20 km/l and emit less than 120g/km of CO2. Engine capacity must not exceed 1.3 litres for petrols and 1.4 litres for diesels.
For images and a video of the new Micra, check out our previous post here.
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Pity Thailand if it aspires to be the ‘Detroit of the East’!!
Sure like the ‘eco car’ deal though.