THE new UK importer of TATA vehicles has announced that it will introduce passenger cars to its range for the first time. Motor Vehicle Industries Ltd, which acquired the franchise from Inchcape, will introduce a sports utility vehicle, currently on sale in Spain and Italy, during the second quarter of 2000, followed by a supermini at the end of next year.

The existing 50-strong dealer network will remain in place, with hopes to increase the figure to 70-plus once the two new models have arrived. TATA imports light commercial vehicles manufactured in India.