By IANS,
Mumbai : Mahindra Group, famous for its automobiles and farm equipment, is now foraying into wet territory – manufacturing fiberglass powerboats and catamarans.
It enters the high-potential, exclusive leisure boating industry under the brand name of Mahindra Odyssea and initially offer state-of-the-art, custom-designed power boats ranging from 20-40 feet, said Mahindra and Mahindra executive vice-president Zhooben Bhiwandiwala.
Apart from discerning individual and corporate clients, Mahindra Odyssea will also offer options to the paramilitary and defence forces with an eye on export markets in the future, he said.
“Mahindra Odyssea is the advent of a new journey for the Mahindra Group which now has a presence in almost every segment of the transport ecosystem,” said Anand Mahindra, vice-chairman and managing director of the $8.7 billion Mahindra Group.
He said India’s vast coastline and water bodies represent significant untapped potential for both water transport and marine-based leisure activities.
“Through Mahindra Odyssea, we would not only contribute to the organised growth of the Indian boating industry but also play a key role in developing India’s vast waterways,” he said.
This is the first-ever foray by a major Indian industrial group into the leisure boating segment which is dotted by independent agencies offering imported versions from international manufactures.
Mahindra Odyssea product range will incorporate key design features, including hybrid trihedral hull for stable rides and superior operating efficiency, quality fittings with attention to safety, and complemented by spacious deck layout, top quality surface finish, adequate storage, great performance and maneuvrability, of international class.