Tata-Rover JV still on
The Indian Express — December 21, 2004

Putting to rest all speculation about a split, Tata Motors and UK's Phoenix/ MG Rover group have in a joint statement reaffirmed their commitment to the City Rover project in the UK and European markets. "The annual business plan review that assessed market dynamics and competitive offerings in the UK market, has led to suitable adjustments which will contribute to a stronger offering in the marketplace," a media statement issued on Monday said.

MG Rover managing director (sales & marketing) Rod Ramsay said that the City Rover and its new versions will enable the Company to position itself more aggressively in the small car/city car segment in the UK and European markets. "The success in this segment would be an important element of the group strategy, going forward," he said. Tata Motors, head— international business (passenger cars) Divyendu Kumar said that the supplies to Rover remain a priority for Tata Motois. "The company continues to he committed to the overall success of the City Rover Project," he added.

According to the statement, the City Rover project will see added momentum with new product versions and entry into new markets. "The companies have announced plans for the introduction of left-hand drive (LHD) versions that will form the basis of entry into European markets. In addition, the two organisations also confirmed agreement on potential inclusion of the turbo-diesel version of the City Rover," it states.

Under the terms of the original deal between the two sides, Tata Motors would export one lakh cars made on the Indica platform to MG Rover over a five year period to be sold under the City Rover brand name. The tie-up with Rover was seen to be a crucial part of Tata Motors' overseas push. Earlier this year, the company acquired Daewoo Commercial Vehicle Co Ltd of South Korea - now named Tata Daewoo Commercial Vehicle Co Ltd (TDCV).