Toyota recently inaugurated its new engine factory in Karnataka where it manufactures the latest GD series of engines for the Innova Crysta. This includes the 1 GD-FTV 2.8 litre and 2GD-FTV 2.4 litre engines. The word on the street though is that they might be planning to increase this list with the 1.4 litre mill.
Speaking to Autocar Professional, TR Parasuraman, Deputy Manager of Toyota Industries Engine India Ltd said that the company does want to make more engines here. In fact, he would love to have the 1.4 litre manufactured in India. However, due to several different factors which have plagued the company’s investment plans in the country may be a cause of worry.
While the 1.4 litre mill is imported from Japan, its local production will help in reducing the price of the Etios Liva and Etios sedan, along with the Corolla Altis. This though will require significant investments which will again need the parent firm’s approval. The new plant has a capacity of 1.08 lakh engines per annum, has already seen an investment of Rs 1,100 crore. The 1.4 litre mill will need an extra investment of Rs 600 crores to Rs 700 crores.
If folks at Toyota Kirloskar do make it a point to make the 1.4 litre mill in India, convincing the parent firm will be a tough nut to crack. The company already makes the 1.5 litre and 1.2 litre petrol mills at a different facility near Bangalore.