Tuesday 11th March 2003

Tata to MG Rover

Phoenix to distribute Indian trucks around the UK and Ireland

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Phoenix Venture Holdings Ltd (PVH), owners of MG Rover Group, has signed an agreement with Tata Engineering to distribute the company’s Safari off-roader and Loadbeta pick-up trucks in the UK and Irish markets. The franchises will be managed by Phoenix Distribution Ltd, a newly created subsidiary of PVH.

Tata's utility vehicles are well established elsewhere in the world and with upgraded versions of for the UK, MG Rover hope they can make inroads into UK markets.

The vehicles will be distributed through a selection of both MG Rover and Tata dealerships. The new distribution arrangements will be implemented in the next few months.

Commenting on the announcement, PVH group Chief Executive Kevin Howe said: "We are delighted to cooperate with Tata on the distribution of these vehicles. The agreement further broadens the activities and business base of Phoenix Venture Holdings."

[grahambell]

Nothing new about Tata pickups in the UK. Saw one recently on which the round badge containing a 'T' that's fitted to the grille had been replaced with one that contained a three pointed star...

[plipton]

Hmmmm. Bit worried about that rocket launcher in the back (cunningly disguised as 4" poo pipe)

[agent006]

"I've gota good idea, let's cheapen the brand image even further", said an MG marketing executive, shortly before being promoted.

[cycle-rick]

Just what the UK needs -- more pickups. You lads are becoming more American every day... ;-)

[chris.mapey]

I used to sell these things back in '95 - what a pile of c~*p - the "styling" is a cheapo Merc 190 pick up, but I hope the interior is better, it's the Merc dashboard but 'made' to Indian build quality out of recycled video rental boxes.

Old school Peugot 1.9 diesel engines, and a laughably low price.

As I recall they were rusting before they had been PDI'd, and we had to get the touch up / tipp-ex out before delivery!

Those were the days (NOT!)

Chris

[ScoobyManchester]

plipton said: Hmmmm. Bit worried about that rocket launcher in the back (cunningly disguised as 4" poo pipe)