Maruti Model Phase-out.Urban-Rural Descrimination?

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, the country’s largest car maker, will begin phasing out the two models(Maruti 800 & Omni mini-van) from 11 cities in 2010, when its products will have to meet with Euro 4 emission standards. Upgrading the two vehicles to Euro 4 standards has no merit, says chairman R.C. Bhargava.

“Making these cars Euro 4 compliant will be too costly. It’s not worthwhile,” he says.

“Both the Maruti 800 and the Omni will continue to sell in other parts of the country where Euro 4 compliance is not mandatory. And because both models enjoy strong demand in rural and semi-urban markets, sales may not take too big a hit,” Bhargava says.

Mr.Bhargava's views seem interesting.He indicates that the cars which are not upto Euro 4 emission standards,will continue to be sold in other parts of the country where Euro 4 compliance is not mandatory.Well,what kind of a logic is this.First of all,why a certain standard is set for cities and a relaxation allowed in rural areas.Doesn't this a clear case of double standards??If the two models are not complying with standards and if there is a plan to phase out them,an urban-rural descrimination is ill-advised.

Any way let's hope Euro 4 emission standards will be made mandatory to the whole of India,at the earliest.

Second thing is,I still see brand new Maruti 800 cars in the street.If the company is phasing-out the car and if it's not in compliance with the new standard,why is Maruti cheating customers,who are still buying the 800 model,without knowing that the model is going to be phased out.Maruti should stop selling 800 & Omni immediately...