All production operations are being carried out in accordance with stringent adherence to State and Central Government guidelines
Social distancing and strict adherence to safety norms are being followed as Hyundai Motors India as the company starts production at its Sriperumbudur plant in Chennai from May 8, 2020. It may be recalled that the company had suspended manufacturing operations from 23rd March 2020 so as to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The re-opening comes following the Central Government’s decision to commence economic activities in the country and relax lock down measures.
The company has taken several steps to sanitize its premises and to follow social distancing and has issued guidelines for all its workers. Production has been restarted in a phased manner and on the first day of opening, Hyundai rolled out 200 cars with plans manufacture of 12,000-13,000 units this month. The company had reported zero domestic sales for April 2020 had reported exports of 1,341 units during the past month.
Hoping to see a revival in terms of sale following the lock down, the company has received 4,000 customer enquiries and 500 customer bookings in 2 days. There is hope of a hike in demand for vehicles as following the coronavirus outbreak there would be many persons who would prefer to use private transport over public means of travel in the future. This could come as a blessing to the auto industry that have been facing de-growth over the past many months even prior to the virus outbreak.
In view of opening out Hyundai dealerships across India, the company has also laid down safety precautions to be followed. The display and test drive cars will be thoroughly sanitized as will be customer lounges and washrooms etc.
Delivery process of new and serviced cars will follow stringent sanitization process while there will be contactless demonstration of vehicles so that safety is not compromised. Regular thermal screening of employees and visitors will be conducted and Hyundai has also initiated online sales via the Hyundai’s ‘Click-to-Buy” website through which customers can buy a Hyundai car of their choice with minimal physical contact and home delivery options.
For service facilities, Hyundai has initiated ‘360 Digital Service & Contact-less Service Experience’. Customers can book service appointments via the Hyundai Care App, WhatsApp and Hyundai website. They will be assured of digital updates, car pick up and drop facility and complete transparency in service operations.
Most bookings received this month are for the second-generation Hyundai Creta which was launched in India on March 16. The new Creta is priced from Rs.9.99-17.20 lakhs and offered in E, EX, S, SX and SX(O) variants. The 2020 Creta is powered by three BS6 petrol and diesel engine options.