• Mercedes-Benz is launching a commercial vehicle line-up in June
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for the developing Asia Pacific region. The MB700 truck and bus range is the focus of a global sourcing policy and is the first step in a DM45m (£18.3m) investment to strengthen Mercedes' position in the world market.
The range of 7.5-tonne GVW chassis-cabs is built to withstand overload operation up to 15-tonnes. The MB0700 bus has optional air suspension and a cut-down cab.
MB700 is being built in Jakarta by PT German Motor Manufacturing (PT.GMM), a local manufacturer in which Daimler-Benz holds a one third share. Exports of built up vehicles to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and the surrounding countries will start in the autumn. Local production will follow soon after.
Original Mercedes parts are imported along with licencebuilt assemblies from factories around the world. These are combined with 465 locally sourced parts worth more than 40% of the vehicle's value.
Mercedes aims for 4% of the Indonesian light truck market by the end of 1994. Mitsubishi's Colt range commands 75% of this market which is expected to be worth 18,500 units in 1994. Toyota's Dyna Rino is second with 10%. By 1997 Mercedes hopes to sell 2,800 units (13%) in a projected market of 22,300 units.