Hindustan Motors will bring out the iconic Indian car, the Ambassador, with an all-new diesel engine which is compliant with the current BS4 emission norms, reopening their markets in the 17 metros and cities across the country.
The new car, while still being based on a Morris Oxford from the 50s, will feature a new name and a new 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with direct injection technology as well as a host of emission control technologies. All of these features will help carry the age-old design from the past into the present while adding more years to its life. The modern heart beating under the bonnet should be good for about 70 PS and 150 Nm of torque, considering that the present 1.5-litre BS3-compliant diesel engine puts out only 36 PS and 74 Nm of torque. Even the larger 2.0-litre unit makes just 50 PS and 106 Nm.
An example of the new car was displayed to the Kolkata Taxi Association for their feedback at Hindustan Motor’s plant. The launch is expected to happen by the end of June. While this new offering will be almost identical to the existing Amby, it is not yet confirmed if the company also has a sub-4 metre body design in the pipeline for a future model.
The Ambassador has always been considered among the most comfortable and safe cars available in India at an affordable price tag. However, its lack of updates on the styling and technology front have held back its still-prevalent potential. With the new car, Hindustan Motors should be able to claw back some of the market share they once had.
