The much talked about "People's Car" from the stable of Tata Motors and costing all of Rs.100,000 ($2,500) would be finally unveiled at the eight-day Auto Expo, beginning here Thursday morning.

Tata group chairman Ratan Tata will personally drive the launch of the new car at the 5,200 sq metre Tata-Fiat pavilion as part of the $29 billion group's plans to showcase as many as 17 models of cars, utility vehicles, trucks and busses.

The actual launch of the "People's Car", which will cost less than a DVD player of a BMW or a Mercedes, is slated later in the year.

Tata officials did not wish to divulge any information about the new car that is generating a lot of buzz in the global automobile market, but industry sources said it sports a 650 cc engine and basic accessories to keep costs low.

In cars, the group will also unveil a new generation Indica that goes on sale in the latter part of 2008, as well as the Xenon XT (cross terrain), a lifestyle pickup also to be launched later in the year, company officials said.

In commercial vehicles, some of the new displays include a 28-seater bus and the air-conditioned low-entry bus from its joint venture with Marcopolo of Brazil, as well as refrigerated container truck and cargo panel van.

"The new generation Indica has been given a complete makeover and surprises with its stunning looks with a two box construction," said a Tatas statement ahead of the Auto Expo.

The car would be called 'Nano', Tata announced. It has a 33 horsepower 624 cc engine. Tata said: "The vehicle can accommodate four-five people."

"The new Indica will be launched in the latter part of 2008 and coexist with the present Indica range at a higher price point."

Technorati Tags: Autos