cars in SL are varied....from the oldies to the ferraris and all!!! this thread is to post pics of cars you have seen on the roads or to discuss stuff related to cars in the country!
to start this off....guess wht??? theres a new Aston-Martin DB9 in SL!!! its in the port..im posting some pics taken!!!

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h78/premchand/db9.jpg

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h78/premchand/db92.jpg

apparently mahinda's son namal is also supposed to have one!!! ^^

Aravinda De Silva as I know has 2 ferraris; silver and red, 1 Lamborghini Gallardo; Yellow, 1 Hummer H2, 1 Mercedes SL 55 AMG, 1 Audi A8, 1 BMW 750, and he is also gonna buy a Maserati Spyder from the new Maserati and Citroen dealer Trans-Mec Colombo...

Does anyone have any pictures of SL police cars? The police website used to have pictures of them (couple years ago around 2002-ish) but now they have been removed.

I've seen a couple of them zipping by in Colombo when i've been there.

No pics but they have mitsubishi eclipse and lancer if they are not undercover... Or toyota corolla

i heard the airforce replaced their lancers with the new mazada!!!!

what the Mazda Familia?

Micro Car presents new Micro-Reton mini-SUV to President

Wednesday, January 31, 2007, 15:14 GMT, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Jan 31, Colombo: The Micro Car Company introduced its newest addition, Micro Reton, presenting the first car to the President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees yesterday.

http://www.colombopage.com/imgs_07/mr_013107_04.jpg

The above was a result of

Micro Cars signed up with SsangYong Motors- Korea for technical assistance to assemble SUVs.

19 July 2006 11:00:47

1st SUV assembly unit in Sri Lanka


Micro Cars Ltd will be the 1st assembly unit in Sri Lanka to assemble sports utility vehicles (SUVs). SsangYong has selected Micro Cars Ltd as their technical partner and exclusive franchise in Sri Lanka. The initial operation will be to assemble REXTON & KYRON motor vehicles.

http://auto.fixa.ru/news/ssangyong/ssangyong_rexton_1.jpg


Rexton II


http://images.intellichoice.com/images/AutoShows/Big/112_05fas_ssangyong_kyron_s.jpg

The Kyron



The Mercedez Benz 5-speed automatic transmission is equipped with SsangYong’s ingenious dual Thumb-Tronic controls and gear changes can be made via the buttons on the steering wheel or on the gear shift lever.

Micro Cars plans to export these SUVs to the neighbouring countries with a 30% of local value addition.

looks quite cool way better then maruti's and Tata's, thank god...

Yeah, Every time i see a Maruti or a Tata Car on the road I die a little inside (No offense to our Indian Friends, its just that i find most of them ugly... and somehow annoying...)

Another Question to the Car Enthusiasts, Who owns Ferraris in Sri Lanka ? I think Aravinda owns one.. who else ?

Man that's awesome. The Rexton & Kyron looks nice. Who would've though Sri Lanka would be exporting cars.

The website for the company:

http://www.microcars.lk/

I doubt the sales, the reason being is that the price tag is too high compare to other countries. Usually this SUV is around $ 30000.00, Government should pull out the tax on local manufactures, particularly on this type of industries, where SL has a huge opportunity after they decide to develop ports as on commercial basic. !

Proud to say that "Damro is taking our pride to global market competing with other manufactures such as countries including Sl, India & 4massive showrooms in Australia for unreliable low price!"
GO LANKA GO !
BE LANKAN
BUY LANKAN

Ya this is the way ahead...

I thought this SUV was $30k with Tax, so its considerably cheap than other alternatives.

lovely cars. btw what do you think of the govt. relaxing rules further and setting up Special Economy Zones to attract foreign investment in areas of automobile industry ? with the plans for a Grand Prix track in Hambantota, the area could do well with a few car plants.

The Govt should not only relax the luxury taxes on local manufactured cars but also reduce the road tax and eventually build a series that would compensate for the 3 wheelers. This way they could reduce environmental polution and additionally support local economy.

To substitute this the luxury and road taxes for luxury imported cars should be hiked.

On the other hand the nation should spend there money on local products instead of imported.

no, thank you do u think everybody wants to drive around in micro's...

why not, As a example in Korea most of the people driving Korean made cars, That way the money wouldn't go out, and it contributes to the national economy, the share holders get profits, as a result they reinvest in the country due to the demand bro! if u keep bringing foreign stuff, which means u making them rich in short term and long term basic, so better to buy lankan products as drawn below!

Cars : micro
Apparel : Lankan made U even can buy factory samples
Food : MD ......etc
Furniture: Damro
Electric : ACL & Orange
Tyres: Kelani tyres
Music: Iraj , BNS
Simple as that :)

aint that being too nationalsitic??? i mean we are a hell small country u knw?? we cant depend on everything from lanka itself...its impossible!!!!

true, we don't manufacture much locally, but at least you can give priority choice to local goods when shopping.. and i find local goods to be somewhat of better quality than foreign ones, but thats a personal choice

Well the Laxapana batteries had the tagline "apema deyak" or something like that :)

I suppose that We have big overhaul with brand power companies, we need firms that promote brand power through the people & they need to encourage buying local products. Majority our people believe that the local products are not having the quality comparison with other products. Human development is a major obstacle for our country.we still stand at a low rate,where as our Literacy rate is high :nuts:

It is nationalistic when you think this way, but this is exactly whats happening in Europe. The germans drive mostly german cars and so do Italiens , French and the English. Sri Lankans have to get more nationalistic
to improve the economy. By purchasing local products you also help to improve the quality. More sales = better quality = more employment = better economy. Sri Lankans have always thought that imported goods are better, healthier and more fashionable. If I were to drive a Micro in Sri Lanka everybody would look down on me (OK a little bit) I would be proud to own a product that supports our economy. Driving a Mercedes would only support the German economy and destroy the local market and employment.
The local clothing industry proves the good quality Sri Lanka producers and the products are been purchaced around the globe. I own a few Tommy Hilfiger Tshirts made in Sri Lanka and no body is interessted where this is manufactured, all they are interested is the fact that it is a Tommy Hilfiger.
Think about this before you feel ashamed to be nationalistic. All people of leading countries are nationalistic, why not us?

Mostly its about the Brand Recognition, And true about sri lankans looking down on and thinking that Local Products are of low quality and only suited for the... lower income groups, that attitude has got to go. Also some think that being nationalistic is dangerous in our present situation and crap, and also that it will take us back to the Sirimavo's time :P

nationalistic is key a approach if we can adopt, for instance we have FTA's with India & Pakistan, it does not matter that what we import from those countries, if we buy our product they can do nothing about it. This is of course free market, but it doesn't mean that we have to buy it. The vital factor is that the, firms that produce in the country happen to be intensified from financial side & they would improve product and capacity,hopefully they would also export the products. Eventually this support the fiscal side of the country and also the human development by adopting the technology in to the manufacturing sector.
The most important factors are the manufacturing & service sector in the country, if we can improve that, the development won't that far! :)

its true you can be nationalistic ...aft all the country will grow a lot but obvs with a country like SL you cant be too nationalistic like in the srimavo period...thts jus not gonna work at all!!! im up 4 lankans purchasing lankan products and using them more than using imported products!!!

I agree, we need to uplift the export in an aggressive way, because the country only export $6.5Bil worth of goods.( deficit is very high) In the mean time the banking sector has to be relaxed in order to attract more global institues. FTA's are also vital to national economy.

Havenät wegone a bit of topic here, isnät this a car thread not a Nationalism or Economic Thread...

what is being discussed can perhaps be seen as the pros and cons of opening up the market further. Nationalism is a broader term. It doesn't mean buynig Sri Lankan only. Imo what would be beneficial to Sri Lanka as of now is to attract more foreign investment. Like I mentioned earlier, building an automobile based hub near the proposed port and Grand Prix track could be considered. This is one huge industry ( cars/automobile parts/tyre etc ) that generates a lot of skilled labour, earns foreign exchange. Anyway back to cars..

Export orders for lanka’s Micro Reton

Shirajiv Sirimane

NEW SUV: The ultra luxury Micro Reton, sports utility vehicle manufactured in Sri Lanka has received several export orders.

Already they have received enquiries from Germany, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sudan.

Micro Car Company introduced its newest addition a few months ago and already 50 vehicles have been sold in Sri Lanka, Chairman Micro Car Company Dr. Lawrence Perera said.

They have tied up with Mercedes Benz and a leading Korean car company, Sanyong, to manufacture this vehicle in Sri Lanka.

The company is manufacturing two SUV type vehicles, which are priced from Rs. 7.5 million upwards

more.. http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/02/16/fin01.asp

Pic:

http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/02/16/z_fin350.jpg

they look real nice, where are they manufactured... and 7.5 mio. RS. is quite a lot for a Micro...

well its with that extraordinarily huge tax i think.

"This price is almost 40 percent less of the price of an imported car and the Government has pledged that they would purchase more vehicles from the company thus saving foreign exchange,” he said.

He thanked the Government for assisting them to iron out problems with regard to the duty that was imposed on the Micro car. “I had made several representations to successive governments and now the company has been granted a duty waiver,” he said.

“The Government wanted me to have at least 30 percent value addition for the car to grant me this concession,” Dr. Perera said.

“My ultimate aim is to produce a 100 percent locally manufactured car,” he said.

Normal SUV costs about 8mil+VAT right ? Whats value addition ? :P

8 mio. you can get a rather high class SUV for that... Usually you would get east asian Luxury SUV's for that price, the european ones have very high taxes...

This extraction from another article,



He will, but govt has to support them ie: tax , etc.
Good opportunity to earn lotsa foriegn exchange. I know previous govt (chandrika's) didnt support him. Look at indian and thai car manufacturers, they are very well possitioned in the market. Why not we?
Last time when Lawrance Perera decided to build classy railway crraiges & Engines to SL railway, stupid railway unions opposed to it. He should re-start that project too.

Look at these designs of their Lanka Econo Rail :

With the achievement and recognition MICRO CARS LTD gained in the transport industry, the government of Sri Lanka contracted with MICRO CARS LTD to design, prototype and manufacture the “Lanka Econo Rail”.It has further strengthened the governmental ties especially with the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Science and technology, Ministry of Industries.
Lanka Econo Rail get its expertise for technology from German Companies
ZF - Technical assistance for the fully automatic, electronic, hydraulic transmission
DEUTZ - EURO 3 standard, Diesel engine with 400HP turbo, Intercooler.


R & D

By implementing the LER concept, research findings have revealed that the traffic congestion would ease as the private cars on the road would reduce by a considerable percentage.

The concept will attract new segments of the middle & upper middle class, as the LER concept will be a modern aerodynamically designed, comfortable, affordable mode of transportation.

Due to the rising cost of fuel and maintenance of the modern vehicles, there is a huge need for the public for an alternative solution which is cost effective. The LER concept would ideally cater to this requirement. As it has been clearly identified that there is an urgent need for this concept the service could be positioned with a high price.

Micro price in SL is Rs7.5mil ($75000) = Forign market for that is only $ 35000
Govenment is trually ripping off the people and also company future!

Chinese ventures to assemble buses, cars in Sri Lanka


Ranil WIJAYAPALA in China

GUANGZHOU: The State visit by President Mahinda Rajapaksa in China has opened new doors for the Sri Lankan business community and entrepreneurs to enter into new ventures with Chinese companies, with two Sri Lankan companies signing MoUs to establish new business ventures in Sri Lanka...

CONTINUED: http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/03/03/news01.asp

Chery actually signed a deal with Chrysler to start manufacturing their cars the other day

Very impressive, It seems that Hambanthota would convert to a industrial powerhouse in SL, I am glad if they reduce the use of Layland shits!
http://i6.tinypic.com/4g8j414.jpg

True that. Leylands are an eye sore especially in Fort Area and Colombo 2 areas and seems quite unsafe and unreliable... And was any Progress done on Lanka Econo Rail ?

"According to Minister Alahapperuma Railway Department is spending US $ 2.1 million for one compartment and if Government is successful in establishing this factory in Sri Lanka a large sum of foreign exchange can be saved."

I suppose gov can encourage or subsides micro to ressume this project! they look really nice aren't they?
http://i6.tinypic.com/2mmwmtl.jpg

Yeah, seen some really great looking renders before too but what the hell were those Unions thinking !

Chech this out!
http://www.dpmco.com/inside_dpmc/News/New_Facilities_Complex.asp

which means DPMC already have PDI facility for Chery!
http://i5.tinypic.com/3y3lms8.gif

hopefully hes doing the finishing touches, otherwise i dont envy having to paint every single car all by himself

The new facility is to fully manufacture cars (It isnt a PDI one).

interesting....how big is it?

They only signed the agreement! Constructions probably start, when SLPA finalised the port agreement!

Sri Lanka's Micro company to manufacture double-decker buses locally
Sunday, April 15, 2007, 6:45 GMT, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.

Apr 15, Colombo: Sri Lanka's only car manufacturing company, Micro, has signed an agreement with China's leading bus manufacturing company, Dong Long, to commence bus production in Sri Lanka.

Micro hopes to manufacture double-deckers and normal buses with aluminum bodies that are light in weight and suitable to coastal running.

Micro expects an investment of US$ 40 million and says it hopes to manufacture 80 buses per month, providing employment to 800 people.

http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/April1564542SL.html

http://www.colombopage.com/archive_07/April1564542SL.html

Now that IS intetesting.
travelled in dong long buses in c777a.there international standard buses.
As I've been harping on about thats the difference between india & c888a.
And also between Lanka & India.
I just dont get it? Why does indian public welfare seem to be so low on the list of things to sort out?
(I know buses are not the most pressing thing.I use it as a modernisation barometer) .
Lanka does not have seem to have allergy to moderneraty.
when is this bus project due?Any more info?
cheers dread

I hate TATA & LAYLAND buses, they aren't up to stranded! We need modern & comfortable buses :ohno:

Finally a step forward from the terrible Indian Buses, comfort and more space... Good signs, however does anyone have an idea how these new buses will look like? Im sure they will be much better than the ugly ones now...

Now that IS intetesting.
travelled in dong long buses in c777a.there international standard buses.
As I've been harping on about thats the difference between india & c888a.
And also between Lanka & India.
I just dont get it? Why does indian public welfare seem to be so low on the list of things to sort out?


I think it could be a variety of reasons. For example, India tend to build from local technology ( which is pratical ) but are more focussed on cost effectiveness rather than quality or world standards. Another reason which I find baffling is how people see things. In India people seem to be looking at parts and not the whole imho. For example if it about a bus, the discussion would be about what engine, what milage, what seating capacity etc. For example buses are even advertised for what they have ( ie. volvo bus, dvd bus, bus with vcd player, low floor delux, air bus, a/c bus, rear engine bus etc etc ). For me it is the overall quality of the journey that matters, not what parts the buses are made of. For example the KSRTC Volvo buses in India are newer and superior in quality to the average National Express busses in UK, but which is more hassle free ??

btw, the new Tata ( Starbus ) and Ashok Leyland lowfloor busses are a class act. Some even superior to some of the Chinese design, and possibly cheeper. SL can look at it as an option to replace the existing tin box fleet aswell.

Now that my rant is over.. lets talk about SL. The general consensus in this forum is to steer away from too much negative comments or discusions about other countries. Hope you understand :cheers:

yeah ur right about all of that.
But which part of town u from?

Finally a step forward from the terrible Indian Buses, comfort and more space... Good signs, however does anyone have an idea how these new buses will look like? Im sure they will be much better than the ugly ones now...

Maybe like this:

http://www.zonda.com/enzonda/products/bus/index.htm

BTW cant Lanka Ashok Leyland assemble the new low floor Leylands instead of the current ones?

It could be something like this,
http://i13.tinypic.com/2mmg38z.jpg

Maybe like this:

http://www.zonda.com/enzonda/products/bus/index.htm

BTW cant Lanka Ashok Leyland assemble the new low floor Leylands instead of the current ones?

Those buses are great!:)

Wow, great news, And I've found SLTB buses (specially the Izusu?) one more pleasing to the eye thanks to their uniform livery. But hey, anything is better than those Death Traps we have now :P

Yeah, but the chinese ones that they wanna get, any pics of them...

Wooshin Systems Co., Ltd. announced that it has established WS Auto Tech(Pvt)Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company in Sri Lanka, for US$1 billion. WS Auto Tech(Pvt)Ltd. will be engaged in the provision of automotive maintenance/education and the manufacturing and sales of automotive parts.
http://www.investor.reuters.com/business/KeyDevelopmentsBusInd.aspx?industry=MSCGDS&topiccodes=216&target=%2fbusiness%2fbussecindustry%2fbussecindfake%2fbusindmajerdev
..........................

Can someone confirm this please? Great news though:banana:

http://i9.tinypic.com/6cgkzyu.jpg
Micro Cars Limited the sole automobile manufacture announced recently its venture into assembling of SUV’s under technical collaboration with south Korean motor giant SsangYong.

Accordingly the company already had commenced to assemble Micro Rexton 11 and Micro Kyron aiming Sri Lankan market and other countries in the SAARC region.
http://i12.tinypic.com/4l4pow5.jpg
Speaking to Rear Mirror Micro Car Chairman Dr. Laurance Perera said that venturing into assembling of the SUV’s is one small step taken by the company to march into the world of mass transportation net work.
(bureaucracy of Lankan politics)
“We are the first Sri Lankan company to design and manufacture our own motor car and by doing that Sri Lanka become 14th country in the world to do that. Our next step was to penetrate into world of mass transportation. For that we designed country’s first economical rail solution but unfortunately it did not worked out due to unfavorable barriers prevailing in the country. On the other hand due to the fact for our success in designing and manufacture of our own car we received international recognition. ” Chairman Micro Cars Limited Dr. Lawrence said.
He said that because of this reason the internationally acclaimed funding companies namely UK based Park Lane and Ideal Group came forward and invested US$2 million in the project. The two funding companies fully committed to develop the automobile sector in Sri Lanka through Micro cars in partnership with Ssanyong Motor company.
http://i15.tinypic.com/4xvk4qu.jpg
Ssanyong is specialized only to manufacture of SUV ‘s with technical collaboration of Mercedes Benz. The main feature of the Ssanyong SUV is that they are made on a off road ladder where as there are many SUV in the market which are made on common rail chasis. said Dr. Perera.

At present we operate to a capacity of 15 units per month and expecting to increase to 50 units per month in time to come. The assembly process also involves 36% local inputs including full interior leather finish, exhaust and battery are manufactured in Sri Lanka.

Speaking on the two models Dr. Perera said that Micro Rexton is going to be a hit on the local roads as it comes with Rs.7 million price tag all inclusive with diesel engine.

The Rexton is comes with 2.7 litre five cylinder turbo intercool diesel engine assited with five speed triptronic gear box.

The Rexton11 stands apart with its stunning good looks starting up front with SsangYoung’s trade mark grille, unique bonnet charattor lines and projection head lamps, with the powerful performance to match their sophisticated appearance. Added the chrome side garnish and yet simple refined tail lamp assembly and perfectly balanced design that make the driving truly special.

Inside of the Rexton 11 bring a world class craftsman combing with good quality material combination. The stunning leather interior finish which is entirely done in Sri Lanka also reflects what Lankans can do if given right tools and materials. In its control panels this SUV offers high brightness LED black face gauges. The roomy interior dominated by rich black tones give a stunning interriro look.

In its power train this SUV offer 270XDi diesel engine with 3rd generation turbocharger cranks out best in class 165ps. The inbuilt sophisticated direct injection that boosts power and fuel efficiency for cleaner more economical operation.
http://i17.tinypic.com/644apat.jpg
In its transmission Rexton comes with Mecedes Benz madeT-Tronic 5 speed automatic transmission with thumbs up manual shift feature. In its suspension Rexton offers double wishbone with impact absorbing 8 link independent suspension. Besides the Rexton 11 offer many more other features that cannot be matched for price of Rs.7.5 million, a dream come true.

The other model that Micro assemble in Sri Lanka is the Kyron x’ transition.
http://www.dailymirror.lk/sections/supp/Rear/240207/01.asp

Nice stuff. Are these cars zipping around SL?

Since the train idea failed -Unions and Politicans-Micro should start making buses

Yeah there are quite a few around, slowly but surely they are becoming a popular type of SUV...

EVOLUTION

http://www.autospies.com/images/uploads/medium/spies_3.jpg
http://www.autospies.com/images/uploads/medium/spies_2.jpg
http://www.autospies.com/images/uploads/medium/spies_4.jpg

I love the way this BMW has developed.

Yeah, I've always loved their distinctive style ! So Amazing.. Oh BTW has anyone seen Mustangs in Sri Lanka (2005 edition or atleast the 1967 one?) I'm crazy over mustangs and it will be my first car for sure :P

Ford Mustangs, i've seen a few maybe 8 in 2 years about 2 were new and the remainder oldish...

The government is pulling out all the stops in a bid to attract foreign automobile majors to assemble cars in Sri Lanka. At least two rounds of discussions were scheduled during the week to iron out certain impediments and improve the feasibility of such a move.

Kumara Welgama, Minister of Industrial Development, highlighted one significant change that would attract the motor industry to invest here.

Foreign manufacturers have already rejected the minimum local value addition norms of 30% that had been stipulated. The local auto ancillary industry is at a nascent stage, they say, and components are not available to that extent. They want the norm be relaxed to 15%, which would make investment worth considering because tyres, batteries and upholstery are available locally.

Indicating a refreshing sense of flexibility, Welgama expresses willingness to concede the concession. He says, “We can gradually increase the local value addition to 30% later”, as ancillary industries develop and grow. Another positive fallout of such a move would be the generation of employment at the assembly units that would be set up.

It is expected that, once that is approved, motor companies would seriously consider biting the bait. There are a few companies that are already lining up to set up assembly lines. These include Nissan Motor Company and some Korean carmakers – including SsangYong, which launched the ‘Kyron’ last year. Hindustan Motors is also in contention. The company’s most visible product is the Ambassador, which has been ruling Indian roads for generations and is a quaint sight on Indian roads even today. Originally based on the Morris Oxford (UK, 1948), its dependability, spaciousness and comfort factor have made it Indians’ most preferred car for generations.

http://www.sundaytimes.lk/070715/FinancialTimes/ft305.html

Good news! Any clues as to whether any manufacturer has actually said yes yet?

"These include Nissan Motor Company and some Korean carmakers"
This part is really interesting. But how did this article deviate into a full blown ad for Ambassador in the last couple of sentences. Weird....

http://i19.tinypic.com/4qibecj.jpg
http://i16.tinypic.com/4p4zj1j.jpg
http://i13.tinypic.com/5zc2pz6.jpg
The only 7Star SUV for Professionals - Giving a special offer on KYRON & ACTYON with 50,000km/ 2 Year Warranty.Spare Parts freely available.
For your Permit can you find a better alternative?


* Highest Enginer Power/Torque in its class


* Safest SUV having a Triple Layer Ladder chassis


* Best Suspension: Double Wishbone - Front & 5 Link - Rear


* World's Best Diesel Engine Technology from Mercedes Benz
* The only SUV with 3rd Generation VG Turbo Intercooler


* Most spacious SUV in its class with modern 2007 body styling


* The SUV with the best Wading Depth

Package to suit your individual need



KYRON ACTYON
PACKAGE I CIF 14,000 $ PACKAGE I CIF 12,300 $
2WD Manual Transmission, 2000cc, 141Hp/310Nm 2WD Manual Transmission

PACKAGE II CIF 14,000 $ PACKAGE II CIF 13,135 $
4WD Manual Transmission, 2000cc, 141Hp/310Nm 2WD Automatic Transmission
4 Speed Fully Automatic Transmission with Sports mode shift (Power mode shift switch for more power)

PACKAGE III CIF 16,000 $ PACKAGE III CIF 14,000 $
4WD Manual Transmission, 2700cc, 160Hp/340Nm 4WD Automatic Transmission
ABS, Passenger AirBag

http://www.microcars.lk/Special%20Offers.htm
..........
This is an awesome price :!:

marvellous prices!!!!!!!!

marvellous prices!!!!!!!!

Yep, but only for permit holders, nevertheless this gives an idea that they can bring down the price drastically if Gov downgrade the tax burden from 300% to virtually 50%:bash:

yess thts soo true!!!! if they do...everyone will be havin mercs!!!

Haha, Yeah, that would be very cool to see, Mercs and BMWs everywhere.. And We (dad and me) went to Toyota last month to look for a new family car and the cheapest sedan was nearly 30k dollars with tax... without = 15k.

Oh, and what happens to all the taxes the gov is getting from these vehicles ? they should amount a lot !

ASSEMBLY: An agreement was signed between the BoI and Universal Auto Assembly to the assemble automobiles under the 300 Enterprises Programme of the BOI to the Hambantota Divisional Secretariat.

The project, which represents an investment of RS 50 million (may be $), will create employment opportunities for 109 workers.
http://i11.tinypic.com/4pdhopu.jpg
NEW PROJECT: Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama and BoI Chairman Dhammika Perera with the investor I.W. Senanayake after signing the agreement.

The Agreement was signed by Chairman and Director General of the BoI Dhammika Perera, and Group Chairman of IWS Holdings I. W Senanayake, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion . Dr Sarath Amunugama, handed over the agreement document to the investor.

The investor, I.W. Senanayake said that the company would begin by assembling X- type Jaguar sedans, the entry model in the range of the British manufacturer.

The next stage will be the assembly of a small four-wheel drive vehicle followed by the assembly of a double cab vehicle. These vehicles, unlike the Jaguars, will be sold under the company’s brand.

Senanayake said the double cab (and also a single cab vehicle) would be built to suit the requirements of the agricultural sector such as farmers, the tea plantations and other rurally based enterprises.

Another project by Universal Auto Assembly will be to assemble a light truck less than three tonnes in weight that could be used by the agricultural and construction sector.

The investor, I.W. Senanayake spoke of the possibility of making specialised models such as delivery vans and tippers.

Dr Amunugama said it was an excellent project and in addition it brought an industry such as automobile assembly to a district such as Hambantota, where the needs for employment and development were particularly pressing.

The opportunity to export the assembled vehicles to neighbouring countries notably India and Pakistan, through their Free Trade Agreements with Sri Lanka, was a strong possibility.

Also important, he added, was to promote production of locally manufactured components. There were many opportunities in the rubber sector, since natural rubber is now competitive in world markets where it has become cheaper than artificial rubber.

Come on guys I want to see more pics of cars in SL. Go out and do some spotting you guys in Colombo. :)

LoL.. My Cams broken buy me one and I'll do all the spotting you want :P

Ah, For Car Pics of SL go to http://www.autolanka.com/. I cant Direct link from there. Not Allowed.

LoL.. My Cams broken buy me one and I'll do all the spotting you want :P
Man come on quit with the excuses. :lol:

I checked out autolanka. Modified Fest pics were cool. Thanks for the link.

The David Peiris Motor Company is looking at investing in establishming two assembly plants.
One of them will be assembling Chery motorcars, Bajaj three wheelers and two wheelers (i.e. motorcycles) in Hambantota. The other project is to set up an assembly plant, initially for motorcycles in the Eastern province, possibly in Kanthale or Trincomalee.

Dr Amunugama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion and BOI Chairman/ Director General, Mr. Dhammika Perera were hosted to a visit by Mr. David Peiris, Chairman of Sri Lanka’s premier motor vehicle assembly company, the David Peiris Motor Company Ltd.

The company, which is located in Piliyandala, is the biggest Sri Lankan Company engaged in the assembly of vehicles. Its best-known product is undoubtedly the Bajaj three-wheeler vehicle that is generally used as a taxi, and a familiar sight on Sri Lanka’s roads. But the company is also engaged in the assembly of motorcycles and the Chinese designed Chery car is undoubtedly its current flagship vehicle.

Dr Amunugama spoke on the Government’s plan to rehabilitate the Eastern province. Hence local industrial enterprises’ investment in the East was most welcome. There was also a lot of potential for business in the area. Scooters, motorcycles and light vehicles would be in great demand in that area. Purchases of such vehicles could succeed if the banks were to assist and make it easy for people in the East to borrow. Another important asset of the Eastern Province that could be used by investors was the Trincomalee Harbour to supply other parts of the country by sea rather than road.

Minister Amungama briefed Mr. David Peiris and senior executives of his company on the current policy of the Sri Lanka Government to promote investment. He described the recently established structure at the BOI, whereby a dedicated officer in the Mega Projects Unit will handle a major investor. This system seeks to emulate the service of major banks. The Minister stressed that the BOI is essentially a service organization and should devote its energies to serving the investors at all times.

Chairman Dhammika Perera also spoke of the current BOI focus on attracting investment in order to develop the island’s infrastructure. Once this is achieved, further investment is likely to flow into the country.

The visiting delegation was shown around the facilities of the company. The visit began with a briefing at the comapany’s Madapatha Complex 1. This is a plant where Bajaj 3-wheelers are assembled. Mr. David Peiris and Mr. Sumith Kumaranatunga, Deputy Chairman of the Company explained the significance of three wheeler vehicles. There are currently 300,000 such vehicles on Sri Lankan roads of which the David Peiris Motor Company Limited has assembled 99%.

The next visit was to the Madapatha Facilities Complex IV, where motorcycles are assembled. The motorcycles are brought to the plant from India in a knocked down state and assembled. Commenting on the popularity of the vehicles Dr Amunugama said that the motorcycles could be exhibited at the future trade exhibition he was planning to hold throughout the country. The funds earned from entrance fees to the exhibition would be used for developing English language and IT proficiency skills, to enhance local potential for attracting high technology industries to Sri Lanka.

The visit concluded with an inspection of the Chery car assembly plant at Bandaragama Facilities Complex III. The Chery is a compact family car designed in China.

Up to now 2,250 Chery cars have come out of the plant and have been sold in Sri Lanka. There are two models: one with manual transmission that retails at RS 1,295,000 and one with auto shift manual transmission at Rs 1,495,000.

Company executives said that the plant has the capacity to assemble 10 vehicles in an 8-hour shift. They also noted that the Chery is just the beginning and the first of a range of automobiles envisaged by the company for production. Mr. David Peiris added that in the future some components could be made in Sri Lanka.

During a recent visit to China, the Minister had seen how that great nation had developed entirely its entire automobile sector. In the city of Shanghai, a new Formula1-racing track had been built and it was only a matter of time before Chinese formula 1cars would be racing. “I was very impressed by local ingenuity”, he said.

Daily News (http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/08/02/ft/4.asp)

Very interesting but Chery cars are not really great...

Very interesting but Chery cars are not really great...

Yep, they just second to Korean made:lol:

Hey, it at least looks better than those tin can marutis and its assembled in Sri Lanka :D

you have got a good point there... marutis make feel ashamed

Hey, it at least looks better than those tin can marutis and its assembled in Sri Lanka :D

Very true, they are truly Sh*t:nuts:

Hey, it at least looks better than those tin can marutis and its assembled in Sri Lanka :D

true that

Sri Lankans are not wasting on crapy technology as Indians.

true that

Sri Lankans are not wasting on crapy technology as Indians.

:lol:

it seems those suvs makes one feel like a millionaire, never been so impressed with a desi product like this. I think they have to bring it to US. They have to.

Wed, 8 August 2007 10:44:38
LBO >> Transport
Screech
07 August 2007 12:15:07
Sri Lanka car sales slow with new registrations slumping 30%: distributor


August 7, 2007 (LBO) – Sri Lanka's auto market is slowing with new vehicles registrations slumping 30 percent in the June quarter, a top vehicle distributor has said.


Associate Motorways (AMW) a listed firm which has the agency to Nissan of Japan and Suzuki Maruti of India said consolidated after tax profits of the group fell 68 percent to 45.3 million rupees.

Group revenue fell 7 percent to 2.5 billion rupees.

"Weak market conditions that prevailed during the quarter were the primary factor for the lower volume of business and the drop in profitability," AMW Chairman Tilak de Zoysa told shareholders in a stock exchange filing.

"Vehicle registrations in the quarter under review indicate that new motor car registrations have reduced by 21 percent, whilst total registrations have declined by 30 percent when compared with the previous year," he said.

De Zoysa said banks and leasing companies were scaling down consumer credit facilities and high inflation and depreciation of the rupee was hurting the firm.

A build up of stocks has also pushed up interest costs from 48.7 million rupees to 159.7 million.

While costs were rising, the company was concerned whether they could be passed onto the market.

A subsidiary that sells Yamaha outboard motors had performed "reasonably well" de Zoysa said.

However the company was pressing ahead with increasing market penetration. A Suzuki-Maruti showroom was opened in Negombo.


"This outlet will strengthen the sales channels being established throughout the main business centres of the country and contribute to overall volume increases in the future due to greater customer convenience," de Zoysa said.

http://i17.tinypic.com/4pduan9.jpg
Effective steps should be taken to minimise waste at the Petroleum Corporation which would help to bring down costs, said Dr. Lawrence Perera. “More than usage its wastage,” he said.

Perera also said that lot of fuel is being wasted on the roads and there should be road discipline from the driver.

The Government should look at educating people in this regard and drivers too should not be selfish,” he said.

When did you first drive a vehicle?

He recalled that the first vehicle he drove was a Chevrelot lorry which was used by his father who was a supplier to the diplomatic community. I was 15 at the time.

“This was the era most of the imports were banned and my father decided to start businesses to supply these items for the diplomatic community which was very lucrative,” he said.

Lawrence too wanted to get involved in this business. However his father was against it as the risk was high. “You study hard and try to start something on your own,” he said. Then I tried to assemble a Go Kart but it did not work.

It was also his father who thought that the regional education would be more suited than the Colombo education and changed his school from St. Peter’s College to St. Anthony’s College, Katugastota.

His father thought hostel education would make a person more determined and would start doing things on his own. “I agree with this as the hostel education changed my youth to a more responsible and self catering person,” he said.

Did you like sports?

No I preferred Maths. I played some rugger as a past time mostly because other students were doing. I was brilliant in maths and always had high marks.

Some sports are just a waste of time. Golf is the best way a person can waste his or her time and I consider it a sport which is to only good to talk to other people!” he said.

I don’t waste time in the gym but like swimming, table tennis and badminton. However he likes watching movies especially if they are action packed. “Like the ‘Die Hard 4’ very much and I made it a point to go to the theatre to watch it,” he said.

“However I am sorry to say that I have not come across some good quality Sinhala movies in recent times. If you happen to watch a Sinhala movie, some one is chasing some one all the time. Couples behind a flower bush, mountain or may be villain is chasing another one. I don t like this,” he said.

Why did you not pursue university education?

When I was selected to the University my mother discouraged me and wanted me to come back to Colombo once again and attend German Technical Institute in Katubedda. “She did not like the University culture and now I think this changed my life and moulded me to what I am today,” he said.

During the 1970’s the institute was of very high standard with seven foreign lecturers including a German Principal. After completing his education in the institute Lawrence went for higher studies to Germany and UK.

Where was your first job?

“Soon after passing out from the Institute I got a job at Carmart as a service advisor for five years. Then I found a job in Oman with Chrysler Corporation and after five years once again came back to Sri Lanka and worked for Carmart as their branch manager in Kandy.

He was later involved in obtaining the franchise for BMW. Later I also managed to get the franchise for Alfa Romeo and when I asked them as to why they decided to give it to an individual like me he said it was because of my experience and track record.

Since he did not have experience in marketing he found a partner but later found out that is was his biggest mistake. “Well people become greedy and tend to sin when they handle too much of money. This was just what happened.

I decided to give my first business back to this ‘greedy soul’ and move out after selling my business to him,” he said.

This eventually led to the birth of the Micro car.

Did you have enough capital to start business?

More than money, I needed a 25 acre land since my concept was to create a Automobile village where school dropouts would be given training and making way for them to gain employment overseas for high salaries.

“However since the politicians in the Kalutara area during the time was not keen on this project it was Lalith Kotelawela who was then BoI, Chairman for the Kurunegala district that provided me a land for the project. He was also kind enough to finance my project and I am so thankful to him.”

I had foreign engineers initially and today I am proud to say that nearly 60 per cent of the Micro car is manufactured locally.

Catering to the demand for SUV’s he has also tied-up with a Korean company, Rexton and Kyron to the market which are very fast moving. The company is also perusing overseas orders but are unable to go flat out since they can’t meet the local demand.

So what do you think of politicians and politics?

No I hate the subject. Well, I can say that politicians are like traffic jams. It’s a waste of time, money and energy. Look what they have done to the country.

Can you put a child to school today?

There is no system in place and they make life difficult for us. They are responsible for the high cost of living today. I am also affected by this since I have to pay higher wages to my 300 plus staff.

The living standard and social discipline has dropped from what it was in 1960’s and there is no uniformity in the country and all this is because of politicians.

If you take India there are some corrupt politicians. However there is uniformity and discipline.

What are your views on Provincial Councils and devolution of power?

This something that has to happen. Give more powers to the Provincial Councils and people can wait without coming to Colombo for every thing.

What do you think of the ethnic conflict?

This was created by the majority. Introduction of “Sri’ on number plates and the Sinhala Only Bill along with some irresponsible decisions made by politicians created it. This has put the country backwards.

How do you see the local transport system?

It’s very bad. A country needs a sound transport system I am sad to say that this is not in place in Sri Lanka.

We have to use the rail system more effectively and this will bring down the fuel consumption to a great extent.

I have also proposed a monorail system to introduce more trains using the same tracks. I am suggesting manufacturing engines locally and I have the resources to do it. More engines would get more trains on the track.

“Unfortunately this has got stuck somewhere and I hope President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is doing his best for the local industry would pursue this proposal. In the short time he has been in office I am impressed with the work he has done to the business community and this is the time his initiative is needed for this engine and rail carriage manufacturing project to get off the ground.

It would also save millions to the country which is presently being used to import rail carriages and engines.

What is your favourite past time?

Well it’s my family and to be with my two daughters. I love oldies but now I also like the modern music after listen to what my two daughters are listening. They are both in the university. I don’t like travelling oversees since have to spend such a lot time in airports and on flights.

When I was very young I prefered to travel to Germany and Europe but now I like to visit China and Korea as I love to see the development of these countries. Back in Sri Lanka I love Kandalama.

Daily News (http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/08/16/bus15.asp)

here's the db9...stumbled upon it at odel!! those guys in white are the owner's buddies guarding it!!!

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h78/premchand/ABCD0008-1.jpg

here's the db9...stumbled upon it at odel!! those guys in white are the owner's buddies guarding it!!!

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h78/premchand/ABCD0008-1.jpg

:lol: :lol: :lol:

WOW !!! So who's the owner ? Surely a politicos son ! Still, wow that is one hell of a nice looking car, but it still doesn't beat Mustangs :P

WOW !!! So who's the owner ? Surely a politicos son ! Still, wow that is one hell of a nice looking car, but it still doesn't beat Mustangs :P

Mustang is n't that good:bash:

DUDE, Don't I mean DO NOT Ever say anything like that to a Mustang ! They Rule no matter what and they are sexeh ! (Also they are affordable !) Fuxx British cars, Pony Cars RUULLEEZZ ZZZ AHHHHHHH ! :rant:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/34/2007v6mustang.jpg

DUDE, Don't I mean DO NOT Ever say anything like that to a Mustang ! They Rule no matter what and they are sexeh ! (Also they are affordable !) Fuxx British cars, Pony Cars RUULLEEZZ ZZZ AHHHHHHH ! :rant:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/34/2007v6mustang.jpg

:hm: :hm: :hm: :shocked: :shocked: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Sri Lanka will manufacture the Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars locally with the government engaged in the formulation to attract increased investments in the manufacture of motor cars. “We will take steps to manufacture the Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars locally,” Industrial Development and Ranaviru Welfare Minister Kumara Welgama said recently.

The objective is to create an opportunity to purchase Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars at a low cost.

In this respect a discussion was held recently with the Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars Company Executive Director Jagdish Khattar and representatives at the Development Ministry with Minister Welgama regarding the local manufacturing of Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars locally which have low fuel consumption.Minister Kumara Welgama expressing his ideas stated that the government will take steps to introduce an attractive policy for the manufacture of motor cars similar to those in other countries. The Minister pointed out that he will act with dedication to provide the necessary facilities for factories in the Local manufacture of Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars.

Director Khattar said that he will take steps to submit the relevant project proposal after engaging in a suitable study regarding the local manufacturing of Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Cars.

Ministry Secretary W.Guruge, Additional Secretary R.V.D. Piyathilaka, Additional Secretary Titus Jayawardena and Executive Director of the Indian Suzuki Maruti Motor Car Company Jagdish Khattar, General -Manager International Marketing, Saran Bhatia Deputy Manager - International Marketing and Deputy Chairman/MD Tilak de Zoysa, Deputy MD/Motor - Ranjan de Silva, Snr. General Manager - Sales and Marketing - Shivantha de Zoysa, Marketing Manager Viran de Zoysa of AMW Co. also participated at this occasion.


Daily Mirror (http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/08/21/ft/29.asp)

Noooooooooo ! Anything but thiiissS ! Any Suzuki car except the Maruti !!!

Noooooooooo ! Anything but thiiissS ! Any Suzuki car except the Maruti !!!

That's what I thought toooooo:ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

I agree, but for the not so well-off having a uncostly car that is low on fuel will help those people to have better lives, I guess in these cases you have to think very unselfishly... However maybe a major percentage of these cars may be exported and have a major car manufacturer in Sri Lanka will maybe lure more suitable and nice vehicle manufacturers to Sri Lanka, this can only be accomplished if good infrastructure and friendly policies come by... I mean look at India they manufacture good renault and Hyundai cars aswell as Toyotas if I am not mistaken...

So anything new about the Nissan Talks ? Anyway, Maruti is way expensive too, over a million i think. MiCROS are cheaper than that and they look way better, economical etc, so its a wonder why people buy Marutis.

Oh, and btw, Micro crash tests their cars right ? Or am I just asking for too much ? (Recently I saw some European Crash tests on Indian and Chinese cars and now i'm scared to even sit in one of them)

Dude are u talking about the small micros... They are like three wheelers, bad...The SUVs are very good though...

Well, they must have some safety features right (Trend, Mini Van, Privilege). And of course the SUVs are going to have great safety features.

Industrial Development and Ranaviru Welfare Minister- Kumara Welgama hailed the motor car assembly plant in Hambantota for providing employment and utilizing local resources for the manufactures of local motor cars.

The Minster appreciated the facilities, benefits and welfare activities that have been provided for the 1700 employees who are working at the factory. 3500 three wheelers and 150 motor cars are assembled monthly while 500 motor cycles are manufactured a day using the expertise of local engineers and technicians.



The management would take steps to construct a massive factory in Rathna area in Hambanthota to meet with the increasing demand for vehicles manufactured locally. This would generate more employment opportunities for people living in this area in particular.

This was revealed at the inspection tour conducted by the Minister.

News LK (http://www.news.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3391&Itemid=44)

No specific details of this flagship project:lurker:

Very interesting thread!.I'm curious to know if these models of Maruti-Suzuki India are sold in Sri Lanka?...

Maruti Zen Estilo
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/7554/nk173yg0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

or, this one??....

Maruti SX4...
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/6633/nk168jr2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I'd really like to see more car spottings in this thread!.Cheers!

yep, both of them exist in Sri Lanka...thanks for the suggestion, I do agree we need more real cars that are actually used in SL...

yep, both of them exist in Sri Lanka...thanks for the suggestion, I do agree we need more real cars that are actually used in SL...

Thanx for your response!.I love cars and like to see car pics from anywhere.Hope someone takes up on this and posts some pics!.Cheers.

American Motor giant Chrysler announced that Sri Lanka is their biggest market for Chrysler Jeep in Asia.

Daimler Chrysler South East Asia Regional Manager Peter Mackenzie who is currently visiting Sri Lanka made this comments to Daily FT yesterday at the board room of the DIMO

“We see Sri Lanka together with rest of the countries in the region are very important and therefore considering to set up our own production plant in order to make strong presence in the region.” Mr. Peter Mackenzie said.

“For that reason there is a business case study process currently in progress and Sri Lanka also included in that case study. Based on that we will select the best country to suit our business requirement and start our operations from there” he said.

According to Mr. Mackenzie at the end of the year the Mercedes Benz and Chrysler Group are expected step into different paths where Chrysler and Mercedes will start working as two independent entities rather than one group.

Because of this reason currently the Chrysler group is experiencing changes particularly from the senior management positions, down to the retail level there is changing taking place. For this region Chrysler products will be distributed by a new company called Chrysler South Asia Limited

Speaking on the current international motor industry and the challenges faced by Chrysler especially in this part of the world Mr. Mackenzie said that the present and future reality of the motor industry is that the price of fuel becoming more and more expensive and the challenge before the company was able to produce more fuel efficient and more environment friendly vehicles.

“For that we have already invested US$ 3 billion drive train plant in order to introduce more fuel efficient cars to the market. On the other hand we are also switching into manufacture small cars to face the new challenges in the motor industry. Speaking on DIMO the local agents for the Chrysler Motor vehicles Mr. Mcakenzi said that Chrysler is very much happy with the performance and the initiatives DIMO has taken in promoting Chrysler motor vehicles in Sri Lanka.

“We will continue to support and work together with DIMO, our business partner in Sri Lanka.” Mr. Mackenzie concluded.
:shocked:
DM (http://www.dailymirror.lk/2007/09/25/ft/12.asp)

Hope they will choose Sri Lanka to manufacture these cars, but I think India will be opted for due to their experience in vehicle manufacturing...

CleanCo Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and Laugfs Eco Sri (Pvt) Ltd have been selected to implement the vehicle emission testing programme from April 2008.

http://i5.tinypic.com/823hlow.jpg
Anura Vidanagamage, Director CleanCo Lanka (Pvt) Ltd demonstrating the VET equipment. Chairman Laugfs Eco W.K.H. Wegapitiya looks on.
Picture by Saman Sri Wedage

The companies will invest Rs. one billion and Rs. 500 million each to get down testing machines and set up a total of 66 fixed and mobile testing stations islandwide including the North and East. Each company will set up 16 fixed testing stations and 17 mobile test stations and will issue the VET (vehicle emission test ) certificates.

It is compulsory for vehicle owners to obtain the VET certificate from one of these two companies to renew their revenue licences from next year.

A fee of Rs. 200 to Rs. 850 will be charged depending on the vehicle category from motorcycles to heavy trucks. The launch of the "Vehicle Emissions Testing Programme of Sri Lanka" was held at the BMICH yesterday. It was organised by the Department of Motor Traffic.

Commissioner of Motor Traffic B. Wijeratne said the motor vehicle population in Sri Lanka is estimated to reach 2.4 million by 2008 and serious environmental consequences are expected as a result of this growth specially with regard to air pollution. The reduction of fuel consumption by one per cent by way of emission control could save Rs. one billion for the nation annually.

Wijeratne said the transport sector accounts for nearly two thirds of the country's fossil fuel consumption and is the main cause of urban air pollution resulting in fast deteriorating air quality in the main cities of the country.

Unless it is monitored and regulated , the damage for healthy existence of living beings could be alarming in the near future.

The Government has taken a policy decision to regulate vehicle emission and fuel standards and thereby mitigate this mounting threat to public health. The Emission Testing Programme tests vehicle emissions to identify the most polluting vehicles. It requires these vehicles to be repaired so that their emissions are reduced.

Vehicle emission testing is to ensure that the atmosphere is free from poisonous gases, so that people are protected. Vehicle testing will be a governmental legal requirement shortly.

The main objective of the emissions test programme is to give clean breathing air to the future generations. According to statistics of Motor Traffic Department there are 2.4 millon registered vehicles in the country out of which 1.9 million are operational. Sixty per cent of these vehicles are operating within the Colombo Economic Zone.

DN (http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/11/14/bus01.asp)

Mon, 19 November 2007 20:23:53
LBO >> Equities
Low Gear
17 November 2007 14:56:26
Sri Lanka car firm's profit falls as imports slow down


Nov 17, 2007 (LBO) – Associated Motorways (AMW), a big Sri Lankan vehicle importer, said net profit for the September quarter fell 59 percent to 80 million rupees year-on-year as high inflation and interest rates dampened demand for new cars.


Revenue fell 18 percent to 2.8 billion rupees during the same period, according to provisional results sent to the Colombo bourse.

Net profit in the first half of the 2008 financial year was down 63 percent to 125 million rupees.

Tilak de Zoysa, AMW's Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, attributed the decline to high inflation and borrowing costs which affected consumer purchasing power.

New motor car registrations for the whole industry fell 30 percent during the first six months compared to the same period last year.

AMW's Suzuki/Maruti division continued to contribute "significantly" to the overall profitability followed by Nissan and the parts and service divisions, de Zoysa said in a statement to shareholders.

"The profitability from these divisions continued to bolster our financial performance given its appeal of a ‘value for money’ proposition."

He also reported increased volumes in the Piaggio division partly because of "aggressive marketing strategies".

The group continues to be 'bullish' with regard to the growth potential of its spare parts and workshop operations, he said.

It was expanding facilities to attract higher volumes of business.

The firm was also planning to expand two and three-wheeler tyre manufacturing and marketing capabilities following the government decision to increase duty on imported three-wheeler tyres.



http://www.lankabusinessonline.com/fullstory.php?newsID=1028843863&no_view=1&SEARCH_TERM=13

Khodro car makers to come here; BoC to set up branch in Tehran
http://i5.tinypic.com/81h0isi.jpg
Following the success of President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s visit to Iran, it has been suggested that Sri Lanka’s state financial giant, Bank of Ceylon (BoC) should consider the possibility of opening up a branch in Iran’s capital, Tehran, The Nation Economist reliably learns.

During his visit, the President held a long discussion, which went on almost for two and half hours, with several top Iranian investors and businessmen. The President is reported to have told them that having a BoC branch in Tehran could facilitate the trade relations between the two countries.

According to a top delegate who accompanied the President to Iran, the amount of money Sri Lanka will be getting in terms of long term loans is approximately U$ 1750 million. Finance Secretary Dr. P.B Jayasundara on Friday told the media that the money will mainly be utilized to revamp the Sapugaskanda oil refinery and for 100 MW Uma Oya hydro power projects.

During the President’s Iran visit, eight agreements were signed altogether, reliable sources told The Nation Economist. Among them, Sri Lanka has also entered into an agreement to buy three new ships under concessionary terms.
Apart from that President has visited the Iran’s Khodro car manufacturing factory, which manufactures one million cars per year, and has put forward a proposal for them to set up a plant in Sri Lanka to manufacture cars using some of the raw materials available locally.

The two governments were also reported to have entered into an agreement to cease the present double taxation mechanism for tea exports from Sri Lanka to Iran.
During a press conference, Minister A.H.M Fowzie who accompanied the President to Iran said that the tour was a great success. “Iranian government agreed to provide us crude oil for four months free of interest, and if we wish to, we can extend the period for seven months under a concessionary rate” he remarked.

Finance Secretary, Jayasundara said that the government has been able to start Uma Oya hydro project before the proposed dates due to the Iranian aid.

Nation Economist (http://www.nation.lk/2007/12/02/busi1.htm)

Good news, who and what is that car company?

Good news, who and what is that car company?

That's the biggest manufacture in middle east:)

That's the biggest manufacture in middle east:)

What happened to TATA, Maruti, Volkswagen and the other companies that were supposedly setting up assembly plants?

Sri Lanka has begun in-country assembly of the new Micro Kyron car. The first ten customers received their keys from President Mahinda Rajapaksa this evening at Temple Tree
http://i7.tinypic.com/80ot0uc.jpg
http://i1.tinypic.com/8a54w7l.jpg
http://i4.tinypic.com/6nr47lx.jpg

Micro Cars will export their locally assembled Kyron sports utility vehicle to India next year.

Managing Director of the Company Dr. Lawrence Perera said they have already sent test vehicles to India and the response was very good.

"There is a demand for quality SUVs in India," he said.

He said the company had invested Rs. 300 million in the last six months for factory expansion and to expand their plant in Polgahawela. "This has helped to increase production," he said.

Dr. Perera thanked President Mahinda Rajapaksa for initiating Government sector car permit holders to purchase the Kyron vehicle duty free.

"This is a step taken in the right direction," he said. President Rajapaksa while distributing the first 10 vehicles to the Government sector said that he likes to promote local enterprises. The move by the Government sector to purchase locally manufactured vehicles would also help to save foreign exchange.

He said they are now in a position to manufacture 50 units per month. "This is why we are going in for exports," he said.

Micro cars would also re-launch their Micro car from next February with additional features. "It would be with a 1000 cc engine and would come as a hatch back model," he said.

The Micro Mini would also have 60 per cent value addition, which is an increase of 20 percent.

The car is produced with a reinforced composite body and galvanised chassis. Composite body manufacturing requires no expensive high tech machinery or robotics. Chassis are also hand made and coated with galvanise to give a warranty of 15 years. "This is the reason for the vehicle to be low priced," he said.

Since the launch in 2003, the samples were well accepted in the market.

Being the pioneers in designing, developing and manufacturing National car for our people, the project is viewed with national interest.

Sri Lankan's are proud to have a car manufacturing facility in their soil.

When Micro Car, initially commenced operations they had severe set backs as the Registrar of Motor Vehicles failed to recognise the vehicle while there was a duty imposed.

These problems are now ironed out and the company manufactures around 300 vehicles which include cars, SUVs and Micro vans for the local market.

DN (http://www.dailynews.lk/2007/12/07/bus01.asp)

Great Micro keep it up, but 50 cars a month is still to little if they really want to export and serve the local market aswell...

Sri Lanka's Micro Cars to export SUVs to India

8 Dec, 2007, 1135 hrs IST, PTI

COLOMBO: Sri Lankan car company Micro Cars Ltd will export locally assembled South Korean Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) SsangYong Kyron to India from next year.

"There is a demand for quality SUVs in India," Micro Cars Managing Director Lawrence Perera told reporters here.

The company has already sent test vehicles to India and received "a very good" response, he said, adding Micro Cars would export its locally assembled Kyron SUVs to India from next year.

The company is manufacturing two SUV type vehicles with the price staring from 7.5 million Sri Lankan Rupees (around 68,000 dollars).

He said the company had invested Rs 300 million in the last six months for expanding its plant in Polgahawela, 60 kms north-east from Colombo.

Perera said the body of the vehicle, mirrors, seats and rubber component including the tyres would be manufactured in Sri Lanka.

"We are in the process of acquiring technology to have more local components to the vehicles," he said.

Perera added that the price of the vehicle would be considerably less than that of a directly imported vehicle.

The move by the government to purchase locally made cars would help to save foreign exchange, he said.

Micro Car is now in a position to manufacture 50 units per month. "This is why we are going in for exports," he added.

The company manufactures around 300 vehicles which include cars, SUVs and Micro vans for the local market.

SsangYong Motor Company is the fourth largest South Korean automobile manufacturer.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/News_By_Industry/Auto/Sri_Lankas_Micro_Cars_to_export_SUVs_to_India/articleshow/2606352.cms

Sri Lanka's Micro Cars to export SUVs to India



The company is manufacturing two SUV type vehicles with the price staring from 7.5 million Sri Lankan Rupees (around 68,000 dollars).


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/News_By_Industry/Auto/Sri_Lankas_Micro_Cars_to_export_SUVs_to_India/articleshow/2606352.cms

we can buy 2 in here:lol:

Micro Cars Limited country’s only automobile manufacturer assured the general public of Sri Lanka that there in on any truth of that SsangYong in Korea shutting down their SUV lines.

Reacting to the Rear Mirror news story that was published in the last issue Chairman of the TransMec Holdings Limited the local agents for the Ssangyong motors Dr. Laurence Perera assured the general public that is no absolute truth on the story.
http://i12.tinypic.com/6yph7j4.jpg
When we saw the news item we brought that to notice of our principals in Korea.

They have explained to us and when the story was translated in to English the story changed into saying that SVV line is about to close down. Non of the Korean media carried the translation and only international media wire service used it. What exactly they are trying to do is that bring down the production costs by concentrating into one shift excluding night shift. Said Dr. Laurence Perera. He said that Korean trade unions are very strong that there is lot of pressure from to against the company’s decision of terminating the night shit.

According to our principles this decision alone will bring down the cost of production of the Rexton by 45% which will help the company to market Rexton at better price.

On the other hand Rexton is the most expensive SUV in the Korea. And it is made of main parts imported from Mercedes Benz in Germany. Rexton and the other SUV’s are bread and butter of the Ssangyong .

Therefore our principles have reassured to us there is no plans of closing down the SUV lines in Korea even in their wildest dreams.

On the other hand the company is now actively concentrating launching of the hybrid Rexton SUV. For that company already had issued US$ 500 million worth of bonds where Banks in Korea have purchased.

Dr Laurence Perera speaking on his operation in Sri Lanka he said that the company is expanding its operation boosted by the current high demand for the Rexton and other SUV line up offered by the company.

At the moment we manufacture a total of 300 vehicles including SUVs, cars and MPV vans in Sri Lanka. Our operation in assembling of motor vehicles is expanding where we will commence the new automatic conveyers by early next year. We are also closely working with country’s financial giants like Seylan Bank, DFCC Vardana banks. So our position also growing we are determined to grow ourselves in bring Sri Lanka into the global auto mobile manufacture’s list.

In that sense soon we will be launching the commencement of the assembling of 4x4 drive double cab with six speed trip tronic transmission.. And also will be introducing new micro privilege Mx9 with front engine 1000 cc engine. Speaking of the increasing prices of the motor vehicles sold in Sri Lanka Dr. Perera said that country’s tax structure for motor vehicles are very high.

On the other hand our rupee is in the devaluating trend. So what we must do is increase the country’s production in order to make our rupee strong currency.

DM (http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=982)

Good stuff Micro, showing great resiliance, in the hardest of times...

Sri Lanka could soon have a homegrown automobile industry, like many other Asian countries such as India and Malaysia. Dr Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion recently told a visiting Indian delegation that the economic boom in a number of Asian economies such as those of India and China had fuelled a growing demand for automobiles in the region.

The recently signed agreement with the Australia based company Overseas Vehicles Sales Limited is a step in that direction. Messrs. Eshana de Silva and Upali Samaraweera (both Board Members of the BOI) signed the Agreement on behalf of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka and the investor, Mr Peter Hill was formally presented with the BOI Certificates of Registrations.

Under the new Agreement, Overseas Vehicles Sales Limited will relocate their project from Negombo Road, Peliyagoda to Kirimandala Mawatha, Narahenpita. The Director/ General Manager is Mr Ajith Rodrigo, who has many years experience in the automobile industry. Mr Suresh Edirisinghe, who is the son of Mr Gamini Edirisinghe, Chairman of Edirisinghe Brothers Ltd will head the International Sales and Marketing of the vehicles.

Overseas vehicles sales are currently engaged in converting large US built vehicles made by General Motors from left hand to right hand drive for the export market. The vehicles they import are essentially 4-wheel drive Sports Utility vehicles (SUVs) of the Cadillac, GMC and Hummer brands.The Investor, Mr Peter Hill, an Australian national, decided to locate his plant in Sri Lanka as he had many family friends in the island. “This was the main selling point,” he added.

The latest vehicle to be converted is the Hummer, the popular civilian version of the vehicle, which is used extensively by the United States military. The conversion from left to right hand drive is a very extensive task, as the vehicles have to be completely taken apart and rebuilt.

Furthermore the company produces many of the parts which are used in this conversion such as right hand drive dashboards, windscreen wiper panels, centre consoles, electric seats, heater boxes, bracketing for air conditioning, steering boxes and the brake system.

Since the company was established in Sri Lanka in 2003, the project is not new, but the decision to relocate the plant to a larger facility at Kirimandala Mawatha, Narahenpitiya is an indication of the growing demand for such vehicles. There are currently 52 right hand drive countries in the world, so the market potential for these converted vehicles is considerable.

Indeed Mr. Peter Hill, Chairman of Overseas Vehicles Sales Limited is very optimistic about the market potential for these large and very luxurious SUVs. The economic growth in Asian countries has resulted in increasingly discerning customers who are attracted by the powerful performance, luxurious fittings and near indestructible bodyworks of the American vehicles.

Mr Hill see his primary export markets as India, Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Africa, Indonesia and Fiji.

As the BOI is keen to promote investments that develop skills, this investment is of great value. The 50 workers employed have been trained to man very advanced equipment needed in the process of converting the vehicles. The conversion plan at Kirimandala Mawatha, Narahenpita is an ISO standard quality workshop. The investor is confident that the plant will convert about 300 vehicles every year.

Mr. Peter Hill also added that he would like to see his vehicles on Sri Lankan roads. The vehicles he said are ideally suited for Sri Lanka, especially those in the Chevrolet range.

DM (http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=6972)

The Micro Kyron looks nice!I hope it is exported to Bangladesh in the future.Btw,how much does it cost in Sri Lanka?

They are all starting at 7 million up which is about 70k dollars. That is in Sri Lanka with its exorbitant taxes, so it will be about 100-200% cheaper overseas.
Also I wish Micro would design and build a fully local low cost sedan,

They are all starting at 7 million up which is about 70k dollars. That is in Sri Lanka with its exorbitant taxes, so it will be about 100-200% cheaper overseas.
Also I wish Micro would design and build a fully local low cost sedan,

But if u have tax free permit it's only $12,000 - $14,000, which is damn cheap:)

nah man, that is not true, that is the kinda rubbish you find in the newspapers, I went to see for myself, with my family, a VW Passat which is supposed to cost 16,500 USD with a permit, actually cost upto 30,000-40,000, you still pay cess, VAT and some other taxes, even with the permit, I have really seen it with my OWN eyes... After all, you can't allways believe the MEDIA...

nah man, that is not true, that is the kinda rubbish you find in the newspapers, I went to see for myself, with my family, a VW Passat which is supposed to cost 16,500 USD with a permit, actually cost upto 30,000-40,000, you still pay cess, VAT and some other taxes, even with the permit, I have really seen it with my OWN eyes... After all, you can't allways believe the MEDIA...

Well, that what I saw on Micro cars web site couple of months ago!!!
Any way this is Lankan converted Hummers^^^^^^

http://i29.tinypic.com/sy2xqx.jpg

nah man, that is not true, that is the kinda rubbish you find in the newspapers, I went to see for myself, with my family, a VW Passat which is supposed to cost 16,500 USD with a permit, actually cost upto 30,000-40,000, you still pay cess, VAT and some other taxes, even with the permit, I have really seen it with my OWN eyes... After all, you can't allways believe the MEDIA...

It is made confusing with the presence of different types of permits and our vast array of taxes. Still, it can't be that much even with the taxes if you have a full permit.

That hummer looks really cool.

Hummer looks nice, will they be sold at a lower rate for the Sri Lankan market?

Hummer looks nice, will they be sold at a lower rate for the Sri Lankan market?

I doubt it. Most of it is made abroad, all we do is the conversion. The government can't really afford reduce taxes on them.

Well, they could if they would stop their idiotic bloating of the Public Sector, privatise or atleast sell minor stakes of these lose making entities, earn money and slash taxes for the people of Sri Lanka... Look at the success stories of SLT and SriLankan Airlines.

true that

Sri Lankans are not wasting on crapy technology as Indians.

So, why buy our cars then?

Well, they could if they would stop their idiotic bloating of the Public Sector, privatise or atleast sell minor stakes of these lose making entities, earn money and slash taxes for the people of Sri Lanka... Look at the success stories of SLT and SriLankan Airlines.

I totally agree with you on this point. Even in the automotive sector a joint venture could be made ie. get an emerging company like Proton to take a minority stake in a new govt company (or even a private company) and start manufacturing vehicles here.

Well, they could if they would stop their idiotic bloating of the Public Sector, privatise or atleast sell minor stakes of these lose making entities, earn money and slash taxes for the people of Sri Lanka... Look at the success stories of SLT and SriLankan Airlines.

I don't think we should be too quick to blindly follow western suggestions and privatize half our institutions in an attempt to cut spending. Look at all the problems Americans have with their "health insurance" nonsense. There are loads of good things that come from the money we spend on the public sector and there are bunch of "developed" countries that spend as much as we do on the public sector.

Even privatization isn't always what we need. Look at India's railways. From a huge loss making enterprise a decade ago to an operating surplus of $6billion last year. They didn't achieve that by privatizing it, as I'm willing to bet a lot of "experts" may have suggested at the time, but by actually having people with brains run it.

^^

I wouldnt fully privatise any institution, maybe sell off 30% to a foreign company. However then they should install a CEO with the capacity to run a company (who is from SL) like Lanka Transformers- theyre even building a power plant now. I think Emirates may have made a mistake by not appointing a CEO of SL origin so as to gain more support from the SL public. However companies such as SLPA and Bank of Ceylon which are govt owned are profitable so there are some success stories.

^^

I wouldnt fully privatise any institution, maybe sell off 30% to a foreign company. However then they should install a CEO with the capacity to run a company (who is from SL) like Lanka Transformers- theyre even building a power plant now. I think Emirates may have made a mistake by not appointing a CEO of SL origin so as to gain more support from the SL public. However companies such as SLPA and Bank of Ceylon which are govt owned are profitable so there are some success stories.

Yeah, the thing is to get good, capable people running our public institutions. Politics needs to go out the window.

And alongside that, we should really encourage local companies to partner with foreign companies and start various businesses, like building vehicles locally. It really annoys me when I see a local CEO saying how little support they received from the government to get a project off the ground.

The ‘Micro’ car-manufacturing company of Sri Lanka has embarked on establishing a production plant in Guyana in the Caribbean with the intention of targeting the Latin American motor car market.

The agreement in this regard was signed recently at the Export Development Board (EDB) under the patronage of Prof. G.L.Peiris, Minister of Export Development and International Trade.

It was signed by Dr. Laurence Perera, Chairman, Sri Lanka Micro Co. Ltd. and Ahamed Ameer, Chief Administrative Officer, Micro Car Caribbean Company on behalf of their respective companies.

Under the Agreement entered into, the Caribbean Company would be authorized to manufacture motor vehicles that fall within the patent license of Micro company while the latter would provide technical and design advice along with the services of Sri Lankan engineers.

It is believed that a large number of Sri Lankan technicians and engineers would be able to find employment in this project in Guyan.

DM (http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=8416)

Good, but this just shows our incapabilities and how hard it is to do business in Sri Lanka, especially creating and starting new industries...

I dig that Aston right there. Great styling, performance and reliable auto parts (http://www.carpartswholesale.com/) unlike some sports car that only goes vrooom but can't stay that way for three to five years.

For the first time in history Micro Cars Ltd will be assembling double-decker buses in Sri Lanka from next August.
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Car plant: Staff at the Micro car plant in Kurunegala

The Chairman Micro Cars and veteran automobile engineer, Dr. Lawrence Perara said that two proto types of the bus would be ready by April. “We hope to launch the first double-decker bus by early August,” he said.

The Company hopes to open a special manufacturing plant in Hambantota for this purpose. “We are hoping to invest Rs, 350 million for this project,” he said. The project would provide over 900 direct and over 2500 indirect employment opportunities.

Two types of buses - luxury coach and double-decker types would be built. “We are hoping to market a double-decker bus for around Rs. 10 million which would be 60 percent less than an imported model,” he said.

Dr. Perera said that engines would be imported either from India or China while the transmission and brake systems would be imported from Germany while the local value addition component would be nearly 40 percent.

“The Board of Investment has already promised to purchase one Micro bus and we are now looking at securing purchase orders from the Sri Lanka Transport Ministry and private transport operators,” he said.

Micro, the first car manufacturer in Sri Lanka also signed a historical transfer of technology Agreement to set up a manufacturing plant in the Caribbean Islands (in British Guyana) targeting Latin American countries. “We hope to assemble the double-decker bus kits targeting the Latin American market,” he said.

Micro Cars Ltd will provide all necessary technical assistance design and engineering skills required for the project and will also send senior engineers from Sri Lanka.

Micro Cars Caribbean plans to sell well over 1000 units during the first year of operation with an annual target of 1500 units during the second and third years. Sri Lanka will earn foreign exchange by supplying components; parts and accessories in addition will be paid a royalty fee for each unit sold in Caribbean.

He said that the Rexton SUV car, which is the latest to be launched by the Micro Group too has a large demand. “We are now manufacturing 150 vehicles per month,” he said.

DN (http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/03/13/main_Business.asp)

Two types of buses - luxury coach and double-decker types would be built. “We are hoping to market a double-decker bus for around Rs. 10 million which would be 60 percent less than an imported model,” he said.

“The Board of Investment has already promised to purchase one Micro bus and we are now looking at securing purchase orders from the Sri Lanka Transport Ministry and private transport operators,” he said.

:banana::banana::banana:

I hope the government gives them all the support they need.

Yep, finally GoSL has a change to do some good, without to much of involvement...

awesome news! Hats off to Micro cars, this will do the real good for SL economy. Hopefully the transportation industry will replace all their imported vehicles with local ones.

Yep, finally GoSL has a change to do some good, without to much of involvement...

Yeah, and they don't even have to do anything really, just buy from Micro instead of Ashok Leyland. The navy already buys from CDL, and if this works out, hopefully we'll see similar projects in the future.

Along those lines, any news of the railway carriages the Micro people were trying to sell about 2 years ago?

has the prototype of the double decker been released ?

has the prototype of the double decker been released ?

I think they said April or somethin like that..

if they manage to keep the price lower or at least comparable to the ashok leyland and tata buses they will undoubtedly succeed in the mainstream public transport market. If not the only thing those buses will be used for is as tourists transports which would really suck for us.

Yup, gotta agree...

NIAQYDjqcfo
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^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

dammmmmmmmmmnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!!!! will try to get pics when i go past it!!!!!

Awesome, but I don't really feel like having a hummer, i guess it is nicer to see them...

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This is from the same showroom?

I saw that showroom and the first thing i thought was how the hell did they manage to squeeze those hummers into the showroom in the first place.. Unless you plan to stick to just the main roads i dont see much use of them in SL.

Mar 31, 2008 (LBO) – Sri Lanka has terminated a scheme that gave tax-slashed cars to state workers from today and no new applications would be entertained, the finance ministry said.

State workers who have been issued tax slashed import permits but have not opened letters of credit by March 31 would not be able to open letters of credit to import vehicles.

However the permits could be used to buy a locally produced or assembled car.

State workers who have already applied and who qualify for the tax concession would be issued a permit to buy locally produced or assembled car, the finance ministry said in a statement.

Earlier reports said around 17,000 state-workers have applied to import tax-slashed cars.

In Sri Lanka state-workers also get tax free salaries and pensions. Taxes are deducted from private sector workers and their pension fund is also taxed.

After getting thousands of tax free cars, government officials raised vehicle taxes again this year.

Sri Lanka's politicians also get tax free luxury jeeps. Their salaries are also tax free. More than half the tax revenues of the government are spent on salaries and pensions of state workers.
:ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno:

All I can say is Banana Republic...

Well, this is gonna make alot of people really pissed off..

So did you guys see Micro's new sedan ? It seems a tad bit expensive since 2million+ price is for the permit holders and I wonder how much of it is local made. Also I wish they found a nicer name than Mx7. Still nice work by them.

http://www.microcars.lk/images/home/micro_car_permit_holders.jpg (http://www.microcars.lk/MX7.htm)

P.S. The page doesn't work yet, but there was a ad on todays daily news.

Yeah, looks quite nice, agree with you about the name, because MX 7 sounds like a Mazda or something, btw I am really fed up with all this permit holder stuff and special releases etc. I'd simply stop all this corruption and bring some of this wealth to the people of Sri Lanka, by cutting taxes, privatising lose-making government institutions, trimming down the public sector and spending money on actual development of the country and not Mihin Lanka and certain other INDIVIDUALS...The time has come for change, change for the better or else their will be violence not only between the so-called SECURITY FORCES and the LTTE, no their might be something like a uprise and a real fight against the government by the people who are still not ENTIRELY against them...

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Sri Lankan racing driver Dilantha Malagamuwa created history over the weekend by winning the first two legs of the Aston Martin Cup Asia Championships in China. Pictured here is Dilantha celebrating his victory.

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DM (http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=16029)

nice stuff...

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^^^^^^^^^^^^
Sandun de Silva's photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sandsrocks/page13/)

1.

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2.

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If i'm not mistaken that car comes to my school, 3 hummers come daily...

If i'm not mistaken that car comes to my school, 3 hummers come daily...

Does it? wot a beauty?

Vehicle gas emission test compulsory from July 15 with certificate needed to renew revenue licence. Under Rs500 for small vehicles-Env. Minister-JNW JNW - 2008-07-05

Cool about da emission tests...

http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/1065/pic00011tw6.jpg

Hummer H2

Own by Guruga Manik Owner Sun(Gems)

This is one of them (at my school), I have also seen it at the Hilton and Trans Asia...

Ah to to have a car that gets 8 mpg. I bet greencepeace will start sending killer drones after you in a few years. :lol: in my opinion H2s are just ridiculous monstrosities. I love stuff like classic muscle cars (my friend has a '72 corvette which is retardedly awesome), but hummers are just ... :ohno:

I'm glad GM is considering shutting down production

Ah ! the red number plate... permit holder ?!? And Yeah, Hummers are kinda obnoxious and driving one around in sri lanka is retarded imo considering the current gas prices and roads.

Oh and classic muscle cars... i love them. Cars like the chevy impala, ford mustang, pontiac firebird and the camaro are like works of art.

Hummers should be well suited for the pot-holed roads of Lanka:lol: But then again... not many people have a budget the size of the US military for gasoline.. lol. Not the type of vehicle you'd take to pick up groceries. They serve no purpose for civilian use honestly which is ironic because the H2 was developed for that very purpose. Very inefficient for urban driving.

"well suited for the pot-holed roads of Lanka"

That is if you can fit it into those roads :P

Hummers should be well suited for the pot-holed roads of Lanka:lol: But then again... not many people have a budget the size of the US military for gasoline.. lol. Not the type of vehicle you'd take to pick up groceries. They serve no purpose for civilian use honestly which is ironic because the H2 was developed for that very purpose. Very inefficient for urban driving.

Actually it's supposed to suck off road. Not many people here complain cos the road are pretty decent. And anyone remember the top gear review?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TNUVDKVUjY

Jeremy: Underneath the abs and that packs is a GMC tahoe :lol::lol::lol:

If motor vehicles could be manufactured in Sri Lanka, utilizing over 80 percent of local raw materials, the Industrial Development Ministry would extend its full co-operation towards it, said Minister Kumara Welgama.

Speaking at the presentation of a licence for the manufacture of ‘Yashoda Ambassador 2000 DSZ’ vehicles, the Minister said the planned production of the Turbo Intercooler BS III Diesel vehicle will enable locals to purchase this vehicle at a price as low as Rs. 2.2 million.

The venture will create 250 direct employment opportunities and also a large number of indirect jobs, the Minister said. He recalled the government announced through its first budget under the ‘Mahinda Chinthanaya’ that special concessions would be extended for the manufacture of motor vehicles using local raw materials. He said companies seeking to manufacture motor vehicles using at least 30 percent local raw materials will be entitled to a licence for the purpose.

Yashoda chairman, Yasasiri Kasthuriarachchi said the ambassador motor car is manufactured using over 30% local raw materials and its strength ensures the safety of the user. Moreover, fuel efficiency is 12km per litre and more people could travel in comfort.

This is the second factory to assemble motor vehicles under the Ministry of Industrial Development and 100 motor vehicles are manufactured a month. Managing Director of the Motor Vehicle Company Yasasiri Kasthuriarachchi said he hopes to sell 500 motor vehicles a year. He also said that in the future the appearance of this motor vehicle would be improved as necessary.

He also said the introduction of this motor vehicle to the country will fill a void left by the former taxis and added parts of the vehicle can be dismantled and assembled very easily even under a tree and as a result the user would never face a spare parts problem.

Industrial Development Ministry Secretary W. Guruge, Additional Secretary Titus Jayawardena and Assistant Directress Thanuja Panditharathne also participated.

DM (http://www.dailymirror.wijeya.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=20692)

Isn't Ambassador that ugly ass Indian car?

Yeah thats the one. IMO its uglier than the marutis

Yea, most Indian cars look dreadful, but I hope we get the new Nano's soon after they enter distribution. A 5 door for $2500 and around 50mpg, that thing is gonna kick serious ass. And it actually looks decent.

ytG-LFZ1iYM

That is one of the best ads I've seen here.. Was it made locally (hope so)

That is one of the best ads I've seen here.. Was it made locally (hope so)

I am sure atleast the cg work must have been done abroad

That is one of the best ads I've seen here.. Was it made locally (hope so)

I heard that production done by Wide Angle which is a sole Lankan company^^

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I hate cheap tuner cars...sad that only a few people tune-up nice cars...

Micro Cars Ltd is established in Sri Lanka by veteran automobile engineer, Dr. Lawrence Perara. The idea is to create a lower cost manufacturing and assembly operation that could produce high quality vehicles utilizing the resources and labor force of a developing nation.
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Welcome to the largest automobile event in Sri Lanka , This mega event organized by Asia Exhibition & Conventions (Pvt) Ltd for all motor traders and enthusiasts comes to you with a total new concept, offering a unique opportunity to promote business to prospective visitors and stakeholders from all part of the country.
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Offering not only a complete representation of the international motor industry serving the Sri Lankan market, you are also given the ideal opportunity to experience the latest advances in the motor industry as well as a whole exciting line up of special events during the show which would make this an ideal venue not only for people who want to buy a vehicle, but also for young vehicle lovers and ideal family outing.
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The Sri Lankan automobile industry is expanding rapidly. Irrespective urban or rural demography, the requirement of motor vehicles has increased due to personal and business demand. Sri Lanka has increased diverse demand for all types of motor vehicle, where we see the latest luxury vehicle running on Colombo streets. BMWs, Jaguars Mercedes and high end Japanese vehicles are more popular among high income earners.
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colombo motor show (http://www.colombomotorshow.com)

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A presentation ceremony of 183 brand new vehicles to all police divisions including those in North and Eastern provinces was held at the Ministry of Defence, Public Security Law and Order this afternoon (July 7). Secretary of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksa handed over the keys of the vehicles to the representatives of each police division that received the vehicles.

The vehicles being distributed include 80 Land Rovers , 43 Hyundai Radio Cars and 60 Suzuki 500cc motor cycles. :banana::banana: (no cheap indian crap :)) All police divisions including Special Task Force, Traffic Division, Police Emergency, and other police divisions received new vehicles.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jayantha Wickramarathne and the Director General of the Media Centre for National Security Lakshman Hulugalle and several senior police officials participated for the occasion.

Making the welcoming speech the IGP Mr. Jayantha Wickramarathne stated severe shortage of vehicles was identified before the SAARC summit not only for maintaining the public security but also for the Security of VIPs. Taking this situation into account the Defence Secretary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa advised the IGP look into the matter and to remove the shortage. The IGP expressed his gratitude towards the Secretary of Defence for the support extended in realizing this achievement. He also expressed his views that the Police would now be able to serve the public with maximum assurance and without difficulty.

http://defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20080807_09

I like those cars ! Looks really pretty :P

they look awesome!!!

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Its kinda old isn't it ? And why isn't there a license plate on the car :|

Hope he's got insurance :tongue2:

Or just get a new one... Enzo perhaps? Lol

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If it does not find a home in the country of its origin, Nano, might find a more welcoming foreign address. The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka is readying a proposal to invite the Tata Group to set up the Nano factory in a special economic zone (SEZ) on the island nation.

The proposed location is the SEZ at Mirigama, about 60 km north of Colombo and 40 km from Bandaranaike International Airport.

“We have been reading newspapers... We have heard Ratan Tata wants to move out of Singur. We are telling Mr Tata he can come here and set up factory,’’ Dr Sarath Amunugama, Minister for Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, told HT.

The minister said it would also be ensured that the factory had access to natural Lankan rubber. “Moreover, there are ports in Colombo and Trincomalee. The telecommunication system is in place. There are 140 flights between India and Sri Lanka every week,’’ Amunugama said.

He added the Tata Group would be invited next week.

The Tatas, too, will not feel out of home in Sri Lanka. The group has had a presence here for about 25 years.
HT (http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=d7aad62a-f76b-4b07-9b12-3c0d9a43ed3b&ParentID=38ddbf05-2220-445f-83a8-eae262e6664b&&Headline=Just+drive+in%2c+Lanka+to+Tata)

Would be an awesome project..sad about Aravinda's Ferrari and cool new police cars...

Quality police vehicles. Have to say I like the Land Rover Defenders, top off roader.

Over here we use a mixture of BMW X5's for the off roaders and a mix of cars for routine, vauxhalls and skodas. As we have a problem with speeding some forces use unmarked Subaru Imprezas and Mitsubishi Evo's.

I thinking speeding is a problem in nearly every country...

To True. The unmarked cars are used to catch those who have stolen cars and then go joy riding.

I have a feeling the Nano is going to be big. I'll be nice if we can build some of them in Sri Lanka.

http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/ArticleImages/jkqr2zruq4bmv4inszkico45_bn_20080908_4.jpg

:ohno: That's from Today's explosion.

Was that the one in Pettah? Glad to see nobody seriously hurt, according to todays DN

Yeah but sad about the Brand New car...but as you said, people's lives are more important than machines...

Hi,

Thanks for excellent infomation.

Regards,
Srinivas.

http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/ArticleImages/jkqr2zruq4bmv4inszkico45_bn_20080908_4.jpg

:ohno: That's from Today's explosion.

OMG thats the car i drive!! over here in the U.S its called the Hyundai Elantra...mine is red but in a lot better shape then that one haha...i love it! :-)

The insurance company must have had a real headache with Aravinda's Ferrari!:lol:
Hope to see it repaired and on the roads soon...
btw is that the only ferrari 360 in SL?

These are some Cars that were on offer at the colombo motor show, not many exotic cars but loads of the same modified cars on the roads.

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h78/premchand/evox.jpg
first evo x in lanka.


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Certainly something to turn some eyes, but looks pretty weird!

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totally carbon-fiber.

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Not from the motorshow.

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a 11 Sri Number in the 4th picture ? Also, I think most of those cars are overmodified.

yes true! looks very, in lankan terms, "godey"! :D
racing scene has gone down somewhat nowadays right? ever since that girl was knocked down and killed.
also i think instead of spending so much trying to over modify these normal cars, they should get better cars! ever seen a maserati showroom in lanka? they even have a lankan site so they should have a showroom somewhere!

the street racing scene was fun but illegal anyway, what we need is professional racing (who knows then maybe we could host a F1 race someday). Also were you there at the show ? if so was that porsche on show by the company ? (i saw somewhere that it costs 20 million, about the price of a ferrari f430 without taxes so damn taxes)

And maserati SL website links to http://www.trans-mec.com/

yes the porsche was on show by the company! how much are the taxes now anyways? 300 or 400%?? i still cant believe some people actually have that much money to still go out and buy porsche's and aston martin's! and they should build a professional track somewhere close to CMB..it really would make a great start into proper professional racing someday!

Is this ferrari Aravinda's? I'm a little confused over this one and the one i saw with my own eyes with Aravinda inside! this somehow seems a little different! is it?

ol0K9hjKI3I

R5_X3sV9By0

The only time I saw a ferrari was near the museum road and that was a few years back, but if i remember correctly it was a coupe and not a convertible. Also I've heard of several ferraris in SL.

Honda NSX in SL

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lalithster/2905018896/in/set-72157607639256999/

more ferrari's!

this is the spider 360 modena! (not sure if this is the one that crashed!)

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(DJD_dublin-flickr)

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(anuradha-flickr)

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(janantha-flickr)

No, that is not the one that crashed...saw it at Cinnamon Grand last week...it looked gourgeous...

uEVGXe2MSVs

President Rajapakse inspected a motor vehicle which runs with Ethanol at the parliamentary complex yesterday. Ethanol is being produced at the Pelwatta Sugar Company. A litre of Ethanol costs only 35 rupees. A notable feature is that several kilometres can be operated with a litre. Another feature is that Ethanol can be used for any diesel or patrol vehicle and is mainly an environmental friendly product. The President arrived at the parliamentary complex yesterday to present the budget in such a vehicle operated with Ethanol.

^^ very interesting

the president got off at the entrance...got into the ethanol fuelled car and came wht? like less than a km to the complex itself!! he should have come in it all the way from temple trees..!:P (i imagine he would fitted bullet proof glass and all that so well obvs it would run at lower km's per litre than usual!)

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(butterstones-flickr)

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(butterstones-flickr)

Fairly nice car, like the colour of it...

4x4 Mania
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that first pic is very gay

http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/ArticleImages/umfwit32bqokl0554e2xdw55_NewLicense-MAIN.gif
Motor Traffic Department Asst Commissioner Samanthi Senanayake explains the new features of the high-tech driving license to be introduced from tomorrow to the media this afternoon.

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Damn I soo want one of those. They look mad cool, and they actually have your date of birth on them :lol:

Colourful much. Guess I will be getting one those:)

Looks good, can the police simply swipe these cards with the chips into a machine and access a database or is it not that advanced yet...

I got my driving license a few years back.. will i have to replace it with this one? or is it only for the new applicants?

wait a minute... is that a DATE OF EXPIRY on the card? the old ones never needed to be renewed lol.

Looks good, can the police simply swipe these cards with the chips into a machine and access a database or is it not that advanced yet...

yeah they can. Also i heard somewhere that they were going to have this point system as well. anything on that ?

As for DOE, weren't you supposed to renew them ? because it says renewable on the old license.

^^ im not too sure.. but i think that means it's renewed when you get endorsed on other classes of vehicles. But i know there isn't a date of expiry on the license.

they did say that you don't need to change your license until it expires, so there must be something going on with the DoE.

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Pretty nice car, although i think red is very overrated and common for ferraris. The registration no. is something though.

http://lankabuzz.blogsome.com/images/MVC226X.JPG
http://lankabuzz.blogsome.com/images/MVC229X.JPG

It looks like the Ferrari of aravinda's which I heard got crashed....some time back..

http://lankabuzz.blogsome.com/images/MVC226X.JPG
http://lankabuzz.blogsome.com/images/MVC229X.JPG

It looks like the Ferrari of aravinda's which I heard got crashed....some time back..

This is new, came in April 1st:)

What do you mean new ferrari? He had a 355 which got wrecked and the 360 I remember him coming to Lifestyles Gym in his 360 back in 2004. This cant be new. It might be the same one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5_X3sV9By0

didn't they stop f360 production in 04 or 05 ? Unless he bought this used, the dates on the photos are BS.

What do you mean new ferrari? He had a 355 which got wrecked and the 360 I remember him coming to Lifestyles Gym in his 360 back in 2004. This cant be new. It might be the same one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5_X3sV9By0


Could be the same one.. but the rims seem to be a bit different to the ones on the Ferrari in the wreck photos.

didn't they stop f360 production in 04 or 05 ? Unless he bought this used, the dates on the photos are BS.

If the license is JO, how old would that be. I don't really know what numbers they're issuing now.

Its kind of confusing though. Looks like it was unloaded from the container already registered?

Edit: Looking at the car, it's a 360. From Wikipedia,

Production: 1999–2005

No way is that new.

Ok I think I know what is going on. Yes they havent produced the 360 since 2005 so this is not new. however I heard aravinda sent the car out for repairs. So may be he is having it shipped back from the closest Ferrari dealer which would be india I think. So this is not a new ferrari just his second one coming back from repairs. .

Micro Cars Ltd as one of the pioneer car manufacturers in Sri Lanka will enter the mass transport business in the country in the near future, Chairman Micro Cars Ltd Dr. Lawrence Perera said at the award ceremony of ISO Certificate 9001-2008 for Micro Cars Ltd held at Cinamon Grand Hotel on Friday.

http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/08/17/z_page-i-Micro-Cars.jpg
Dr. Lawrence Perera receiving the ISO 9001-2008 certification.

He said that public transport is a key infrastructure facility essential for a developing country to go forward and his company has the talent the strength and the technology to do it.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has the vision to take the country forward but there is something lacking and things are getting delayed, he said. The authorities must seriously focus on this requirement as one third of the problems of the people of the country are solved if there is a good public transport system, he said.

The company has already launched a new 40 seater bus and another 52 seater air conditioned bus will be launched alongwith a container carrier Primemover shortly. Dr Perera said that people of Jaffna have to spend huge amounts of money to come to Colombo as air fare but if there is a good transport system, this service can be offered at an affordale price such as Rs.1000 to come to Colombo.

As the journey from Jaffna to Colombo takes nearly 12 hours it has to have extra facilities such as toilets.

Micro Cars is ready to provide comfortable buses for this purpose as soon as the roads are opened for normal traffic.

Dr Perera said that Micro Cars is the first industry in Sri Lanka to receive ISO 9001-2008 which is a great achievement. It has already launched a range of products from cars to buses and tractors.

The company has signed up with world renowned companies and is now looking at the export market.

It will export protected Rexton cars to Pakistan, Bangladesh and India in the near future. Micro Cars has the capacity to manufacture 300 cars a year which will save a huge amount of foreign exchange.

He said that among the cars the latest Rexton is very popular and more than 300 cars have been sold so far.

Asked whether the company still manufactures the first model he said that it will be modified and come out with a new out look. He said the cost of a Micro Car is only one third of the price of an imported car.

DN (http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/08/17/bus02.asp)

Nice work, but I still don't understand why these guys are not being incorporated in a new national transport plan or so, I am sure they would live up to the expectations...

I think there was some debate regarding the reduction in excise duty for vehicles.. decided to post this here.

Sri Lanka slashes vehicles import duty; lifts import surcharge

June 01, 2010 (LBO) - Sri Lanka has slashed an import excise duty on vehicles by 50 percent amid a pick up in economy and demand for vehicles, lifted a general 15 percent surcharge on all imports and slashed duties on electronic items, an official said.
With effect from today a car such as an Indian made Maruti which had attracted excise duties of up to 183 percent of its value will now be charged a duty of 90 percent, Sri Lanka's director general of fiscal policy S R Attygala said.

Cars attracted over 300 in excise duties, import duties, value added taxes, port and airport development levies and national security levies.

The government expects more revenue from car imports which plummeted last year amid high taxes.

Attygala said with a pick up in the economy there was a demand for vehicles including the tourist industry.

The government has also lifted 15 percent surcharge on all imported items.

Several import duty bands had also been adjusted. Current bands of 0, 6, 16, and 28, have been revised to 0, 05, 15 and 30.

But Attygala said with the removal of the 15 percent surcharge there was a reduction even in the 30 percent band as earlier a 33 percent was paid with the surcharge.

Meanwhile taxes on items such as watches and camera's have been brought down to 10 percent to encourage retail trade especially targeting foreigners, he said.

Sri Lanka is expecting a surge in tourist arrivals and in many East Asian nations including Thailand and Singapore attract visitors simply for shopping.
In Sri Lanka prices of wearing apparel are already considered attractive.

Source: http://www.lbo.lk/fullstory.php?nid=894475420

This is freaking good news... but the news doesnt clarify things properly.. so whats the tax on brand new import vehicles? for instance a car with a 2.0 diesel engine.. any idea??

I bet this mean that the Rexton is going to go down in price by about 50% which will come to about 50laks or even less?

Sri Lankan Flag on Grand Prix..

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Is this the guy who use to race in the Aston Martin ? whats his name by the way?

Is this the guy who use to race in the Aston Martin ? whats his name by the way?

He is Dilantha Malagamuwa..if am not mistaken..

http://www.salagis.com/images/stories/banners/banner_1.jpg
July 09, 2010 (LBO) - Sri Lanka's Sala GIS (Geo Information System) has developed the country's first GPS (Global Positioning System) map, where a space-based network of radio navigation system satellites can assist motorist find directions and plot routes.
Sala ProSat is the first company to offer GPS navigation that works in Sri Lankan as local maps and landscapes had been already programmed to the system.

The GPS satellite network is maintained by the US government and is freely accessible by anyone with a GPS receiver but need the necessary software and digital maps to pinpoint locations to users.
http://www.salagis.com/images/stories/banners/banner_4.jpg
"Those who buy other GPS from other countries won't work here. Why? Because it does not have (the Sri Lankan) map," Chinthaka Wijewickrama, managing director of Sala Geo Information System, a unit of Sala Enterprises said told reporters at its launch.

"This service is offered without a monthly fee at the cost of the hardware."

The GPS mapping was developed by Sala GIS, a unit of electronics retailer Sala Enterprises, while hardware is from China and the software was developed in Russia.

GPS receivers work by calculating position by precisely timing the signals sent by the navigation satellites orbiting in space.

The Sala ProSat system can plot the shortest and fastest route, and find almost any location in Sri Lanka, Prasanna Suriyapperuma, director at Sala GIS, said.

"This includes all the main roads and by-roads in Sri Lanka."

Sala ProSat is operational anywhere in Sri Lanka including the former war ravaged north and east.

Over 100,000 landmarks, places of interest, police stations, fuel sheds, banks, hospitals, hotels, parks and places of worship have already been pre-programmed on the Sala ProSat GPS.

"This will give you alternate routes if you are stuck in traffic," Wijewickrama said. "Thus users will save fuel and time to a great extent."

The unit can also be programmed to work on voice command in English, but plans are underway to develop a Sinhala version in the near future, Wijewickrama said.

The GPS system despite being commercially available for more than a decade was banned in Sri Lankan due to the 30 year civil war.

GPS navigation systems are widely used in marine, aviation, financial services, defense, security, transport, emergency services and disaster management sectors.

The 3.5 inch Sala ProSat GPS unit is for sale for 35,000 rupees, the 4.3 inch unit is available for 42,000 rupees, while the 5.0 inch unit would cost 49,000 rupees, Suriyapperuma said.
http://www.salagis.com/images/stories/banners/banner_3.jpg
....
Prices are very reasonable given that this is the start, Dialog-IWS one cost around 100,000-150,000 and map's are n't that good either^^^^

According to reliable sources sri lankas first GTR arrived and waiting for custom clearance:nuts::nuts:^^^^

SALA ProSat (http://www.salagis.com)

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