- Upgrading the Omni to new crash test and safety norms would be an expensive option
- Speed warning system, driver airbag, a seatbelt reminder for driver and co-driver and a rear parking sensor standard mandatory from 1 July
- BS VI emission norms to be enforced from 1 April 2020
The popular Bollywood kidnapping van and the people’s carrier in the real world is set to retire after a strong 35-year production run. One of the most popular selling model of all times, the company has sold over 1.6 lakh Omni units over all these years. Although the Omni is still one of the most popular selling models averaging 7,000 units a month, complying with the stringent crash test norms from October will require heavy investment from the company. The Omni, having outlived its product cycle, any additional investment from the company for further development is unlikely.
From 1 July 2019, cars will get standard safety features such as a speed warning system, driver airbag, a seatbelt reminder for driver and co-driver and a rear parking sensor. The Indian government will enforce BS VI emission norms from 1 April 2020. On sale since 1984, the latest version was powered by a 796cc, three-cylinder engine that produced around 34bhp of power at 5000rpm and 59Nm of torque at 2500rpm.
The Omni van is currently available in four versions – five-seat, eight-seat, cargo and an ambulance. It is believed that the relatively newer Maruti Suzuki Eeco, being a popular choice in the commuter segment, will replace the outgoing Omni van.
