Khooshi Agarwal 12 Business Policy Project Chevrolet 40 Pages
Khooshi Agarwal 12 Business Policy Project Chevrolet 40 Pages
AS A GLOBAL BRAND
Chevrolet, a name synonymous with American automotive history, has been
cornerstone of the global car market for over a century. Founded in 1911 by the
visionary duo of William C. Durant and Louis Chevrolet, the brand has evolved from
a modest producer of affordable automobiles to a diversified giant offering an
extensive range of vehicles, from iconic muscle cars to cutting-edge electric
vehicles.
Chevrolet’s early years were marked by a focus on
practicality and affordability. Durant, the founder of General
Early Motors, saw the need for a reliable and accessible car for
Beginnings and the average American family. The first Chevrolet, the Series
the Rise of the C Classic Six, launched in 1912, embodied this vision.
Bowtie: Featuring a robust four-cylinder engine and a sleek design, it
captured the hearts of American drivers and established
Chevrolet as a major player in the automotive landscape.
Chevrolet's entry into the Indian automotive market in 2003 marked a significant
expansion for the American automaker. Leveraging its global expertise and
reputation, Chevrolet aimed to tap into the burgeoning Indian economy and fulfil the
evolving needs of Indian consumers. The company's approach was centred around
offering vehicles that not only met the basic requirements of affordability and
reliability but also resonated with the Indian ethos of expressive design and spirited
performance.
Initially, Chevrolet operated as part of General Motors' joint venture with Hindustan
Motors, which laid the foundation for its manufacturing and distribution network in
India. Models like the Opel Corsa, Opel Astra, and Opel Vectra were among the first
offerings from GM India. However, the decision to rebrand and establish Chevrolet
as a standalone brand in India underscored GM's commitment to carving out a
distinct identity in the Indian automotive landscape.
Among Chevrolet's notable successes in India was the launch of the Chevrolet
Cruze sedan in 2009. Boasting a potent engine and stylish design, the Cruze
quickly garnered attention and became a favourite among Indian car enthusiasts.
Its robust performance and refined features made it a compelling choice in the
premium sedan segment, contributing significantly to Chevrolet's brand perception
and market presence. Despite successes like the Cruze, Chevrolet faced
challenges in maintaining sustained growth and market share in India. Intense
competition, evolving consumer preferences, and regulatory uncertainties posed
hurdles for the brand. While models like the Spark and Beat resonated with certain
segments of the market, Chevrolet struggled to achieve widespread acceptance
and penetration.
EVOLUTION OF CHEVROLET'S
PRODUCT LINE
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, has a rich history of producing a diverse range of
vehicles to cater to the evolving needs and preferences of consumers. Here's a
glimpse into the key periods of their product line evolution:
EARLY YEARS
(1911-1920S)
Focus on affordability and reliability: During its initial years, Chevrolet focused
on producing affordable and reliable cars for the masses. The iconic Series C
Classic (1913) and Superior Series M-490 (1916) were some of the early models
that established the brand's reputation.
Expansion and diversification: The 1930s saw Chevrolet expand its product line
with various models like the Master Series and the Suburban Carryall (an early
precursor to the SUV).
Impact of World War II: During World War II, Chevrolet's production shifted
towards military vehicles, contributing to the war effort.
Era of iconic design and performance: The post-war era witnessed the
introduction of some of Chevrolet's most iconic and well-loved models, including
the Bel Air, the Corvette (1953), and the Impala. These cars were known for their
stylish design, powerful engines, and advanced features.
Muscle cars: The 1960s saw the rise of muscle cars, and Chevrolet played a
major role with iconic models like the Chevelle SS and the Camaro. These cars
were known for their powerful V8 engines and aggressive styling, capturing the
imagination of enthusiasts worldwide.
1970S AND
1980S:
Focus on fuel efficiency: The oil crisis of the 1970s led to a shift towards fuel-
efficient vehicles. Chevrolet responded by introducing smaller and more
economical cars like the Chevette and the Cavalier.
1990S AND
2000S:
Focus on safety and technology: This era also saw an increased focus on
safety and technology, with Chevrolet introducing features like airbags, anti-
lock braking systems, and OnStar, a pioneering in-vehicle safety and
communication system.
2010S AND
PRESENT
The vision statement of Chevrolet is to strive towards a future where our world is
characterised by zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion. We aim to
achieve this by leveraging the collective passion, expertise, and dedication of our
diverse team of over 165,000 employees who are committed to engineering,
technology, and design excellence. Our bold commitments drive us closer to
realising this ambitious vision by focusing on key areas:
Social Impact: We are dedicated to fostering inclusivity and diversity within our
company, striving to become the most inclusive company in the world and
making a positive impact on society.
ANALYSIS OF CHEVROLET'S
VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES
The mission of Chevrolet is to profitably achieve our vision while adhering to our
core values and consistently applying our business philosophy. As an industry
leader, we are committed to providing customers and team members with a
rewarding experience by offering the best buying and servicing experience in the
auto industry. Our environment, opportunities, and processes are designed to
ensure complete satisfaction, reflecting our dedication to excellence.
At the heart of our mission lie our core values, which represent the guiding
principles that govern our business practices. We aim to provide our Tradition
Family and Guests with an exceptional, memorable, and personable experience
that they will rave about. We strive to meet our community's automotive needs
with the highest standards of service, cheerfulness, and integrity. Our approach is
characterised by an attitude of appreciation and grace towards our Tradition
Family and honoured Guests, while actively contributing as an integral part of our
community.
With our motto "We Can Make it Happen," we are committed to demonstrating
our ability to fulfil our mission, delivering on our promises, and exceeding
expectations.
ANALYSIS OF CHEVROLET'S
VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES
General Motors' decision to stop selling cars in India in 2017 marked the end
of an era for Chevrolet in the Indian market. Iconic Chevrolet models like the
Beat and Cruze, which had gained a loyal following, exited the Indian roads.
While these cars found a place in the hearts of many Indian car enthusiasts,
the Chevrolet brand as a whole wasn't able to establish a strong enough
presence to compete effectively with established players like Maruti Suzuki,
Hyundai, and Honda. These manufacturers had a wider range of products,
catering to a broader audience and price range. Additionally, Chevrolet's
marketing strategy may not have resonated as well with Indian car buyers
compared to its competitors.
There's no denying that Chevrolet's exit left a gap in the Indian market,
especially for those who admired the brand's focus on performance and
design. However, the fast-paced nature of the Indian automotive industry
meant that this gap was quickly filled by new players and existing
manufacturers who expanded their product offerings. Today, with several
new car brands entering the Indian market and established brands constantly
innovating, many car buyers may not even recall Chevrolet's presence in the
country.
Before exiting India, Chevrolet faced tough competition and struggled to gain traction.
Now, it's investing in electric vehicles to compete globally.
KEY COMPETITORS ANALYSIS
LIST OF KEY COMPETITORS (GLOBAL AND REGIONAL)
Toyota Motor
Corporation Ford Motor Company
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Nissan Motor
Corporation Toyota Motor Corporation
Ford Motor Company
Tesla, Inc.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
SEDAN (MID-SIZE)
The failure of Chevrolet in the Indian automotive market resulted in several benefits for
its competitors:
The void left by Chevrolet created The failure of Chevrolet may have
opportunities for competitors to led to increased brand loyalty among
expand their dealership networks its former customers who migrated
and distribution channels. With fewer to other brands. Customers who
brands vying for retail space and were disappointed by Chevrolet's
consumer attention, dealerships exit may have developed stronger
representing other automakers could bonds with alternative brands,
negotiate better terms and expand leading to increased repeat
their reach into previously untapped purchases and advocacy for those
markets. brands.
CHALLENGES FACED BY
CHEVROLET
Chevrolet, like many other foreign automakers, has struggled to gain a strong
foothold in the Indian car market. Here's a closer look at the specific challenges
they faced:
Bad Strategy and Lack of New Products: Chevrolet's failure in India can be
attributed to its poor strategy and failure to launch new products, resulting in an
outdated product lineup compared to competitors.
Unattractive Product Portfolio: While Chevrolet has globally acclaimed cars, its
offerings in India such as Beat, Tavera, and Sail sedans lacked appeal and failed to
resonate with Indian consumers' preferences.
High Spare Parts Cost and Low Resale Value: Chevrolet vehicles in India
suffered from high spare parts costs, unavailability of parts in remote areas,
and low resale value compared to competitors, making them less attractive to
potential buyers.
High Spare Parts Cost and Low Resale Value: Chevrolet vehicles in India
suffered from high spare parts costs, unavailability of parts in remote areas,
and low resale value compared to competitors, making them less attractive to
potential buyers.
SPECULATION ON CHEVROLET'S POTENTIAL RETURN TO INDIA
INTERNAL FACTORS
Product Portfolio: Chevrolet's product portfolio in India may not have been
sufficiently diversified to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of Indian
consumers. Lack of new and updated models, as well as limited offerings in
popular segments, could have contributed to declining sales.
Brand Perception: Chevrolet's brand image and perception among Indian
consumers may have weakened over time due to factors such as perceived
quality issues, lack of innovation, or inadequate marketing efforts to effectively
communicate the brand's value proposition.
Dealer Network: Issues related to the dealership network, including poor
customer service, inadequate after-sales support, and limited geographical
coverage, could have impacted Chevrolet's ability to attract and retain
customers in India.
Operational Efficiency: Internal operational inefficiencies, including production
delays, supply chain challenges, and high manufacturing costs, may have
hindered Chevrolet's competitiveness in the Indian market, leading to decreased
market share and profitability.
Management Decisions: Strategic decisions made by Chevrolet's management
team, such as pricing strategies, marketing campaigns, and product
development priorities, may not have aligned effectively with the dynamic
market conditions and evolving consumer preferences in India.
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO
CHEVROLET'S DECLINE
EXTERNAL FACTORS
Chevrolet's decision to pull out of the Indian market in 2017 had a two-fold
impact:
The exit of Chevrolet from the Indian market in 2017 had both positive and
negative effects on the Indian market and consumers.
OUTDATED STRATEGIES
Mass Marketing Blitz: Chevrolet might have relied too heavily on a mass
marketing approach, which often employs generic television commercials
and print ads. However, in a diverse market like India, a one-size-fits-all
strategy might not effectively target specific customer segments. The
brand could have benefitted from a more tailored approach that resonated
with the unique preferences and needs of Indian consumers.
Product Mismatch: Chevrolet's product portfolio may not have been well-
aligned with the increasing demand for fuel-efficient hatchbacks and
compact SUVs in the Indian market. Did they offer enough options that
appealed to budget-conscious Indian car buyers? Failure to provide a
diverse range of vehicles that catered to the specific needs and
preferences of Indian consumers could have resulted in missed
opportunities and diminished market relevance.
Sales Pressure over Value: The adoption of overly aggressive sales tactics
focused solely on closing deals rather than understanding and addressing
customer needs could have led to negative brand perception. Indian
consumers value transparency and genuine concern for their
requirements. Chevrolet's emphasis on sales pressure over providing value
and building trust with customers may have alienated potential buyers and
tarnished the brand's reputation in the market.
Unrealistic Sales Targets: Setting unattainable sales targets can create
immense pressure on dealerships and sales staff, potentially leading to
unethical sales practices. Pushing for unrealistic sales figures without
considering market conditions and consumer demand could have strained
dealer relationships and compromised customer satisfaction. Unrealistic
targets may also have contributed to an environment where achieving
short-term sales goals took precedence over long-term brand-building
efforts.
Brand Perception Issues: Negative perceptions surrounding the Chevrolet
brand, such as concerns about reliability, quality, or resale value, might
have hindered its success in the Indian market. Addressing and
overcoming these perception challenges requires proactive efforts in
product quality assurance, effective communication of brand strengths,
and initiatives to improve customer satisfaction and confidence in the
brand.
Limited Localization Efforts: Chevrolet's failure to sufficiently localize its
operations and products to suit Indian preferences, tastes, and cultural
nuances could have contributed to its inability to resonate with local
consumers. Lack of customization options, localization of features, or
understanding of regional variations in demand and preferences might
have resulted in missed opportunities to capture a larger share of the
market.
LESSONS LEARNED
Market: The Indian car market is the world's fifth largest, with a growing
demand for SUVs and compact cars [source: Society of Indian Automobile
Manufacturers (SIAM)]. However, competition is fierce with established players
like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai.
M - Measurable:
Achieve X% market share in the electric micro-mobility segment
within Y years.
Increase customer satisfaction by Z% through the "Chevy Garage"
experience.
Reduce service appointment waiting times by A% through the
"Chevy Champs" network.
A - Achievable:
Partner with established Indian manufacturers for assembly,
ensuring cost-effectiveness and quicker market entry.
Leverage existing dealer network for "Chevy Garage" conversion,
minimising initial investment.
Collaborate with technical schools and colleges for the "Chevy
Champs" program, creating a readily available workforce.
R - Relevant:
Address growing demand for electric vehicles and convenient
service solutions.
Cater to the evolving needs of young Indian consumers through
technology integration and community engagement.
Align with government initiatives on electric mobility and
sustainability.
T - Time-bound:
Launch the "Chevy Spark" platform and pilot "Chevy Garages" in X
major cities within Y months.
Expand the "Chevy Champs" network to Z cities within the next two
years.
Develop and implement the "Chevy Connect" app within a year.
PROPOSED STRATEGIES FOR
REVITALIZATION
SMART RELAUNCH PLAN AND IMPLEMENTATION FOR CHEVROLET
INDIA: ALIGNING WITH MISSION & VISION
Implementation Roadmap:
Phase 1 (Months 1-6): Brand Repositioning & Product Development
Public announcement of Chevrolet's renewed commitment to the
Indian market.
Extensive market research to refine product offerings and pricing
strategies.
Development and testing of the "Chevy Spark" electric platform.
Selection and training of dealership partners for "Chevy Garage"
conversions.
Establishment of partnerships with local manufacturers and technical
institutions.
Implementation Roadmap:
Phase 2 (Months 7-12): Market Entry & Network Building
Launch of the "Chevy Spark" in select cities with aggressive
marketing campaigns.
Pilot launch of "Chevy Garages" offering a blend of physical and
digital experiences.
Onboarding and training of the first wave of "Chevy Champs"
technicians.
Development and launch of the "Chevy Connect" app for customer
engagement.
Market Disconnect:
Limited Understanding: There's reason to believe Chevrolet India
might have faced a disconnect with the evolving market. Their
market share has shrunk significantly in recent years.
Focus on Global Models: They might have prioritised global
models over adapting to Indian preferences for features, fuel
efficiency, and price points.
Strategic Planning:
Adaptability Issues: The lack of long-term plans to address the
changing market dynamics could be a factor. Strategically, they
might not have foreseen the rise of compact SUVs and budget
hatchbacks that dominate the Indian market.
Risk Management:
Rising Competition: The Indian market has seen a surge in
competition from domestic and foreign manufacturers. Chevrolet
might not have adequately assessed this threat and planned a
competitive response.
Shifting Consumer Demands: Consumer preferences have shifted
towards fuel efficiency, safety features, and connected car
technology. Chevrolet might not have adapted their offerings
quickly enough.
COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF
FUNCTIONAL AREAS
Brand Positioning:
Strengths: Chevrolet initially had a strong brand identity focused on
value, performance, and American reliability. They effectively
communicated this through campaigns like "Chevy Comes Alive"
which resonated with Indian car buyers.
Weaknesses: Over time, the brand image may have lost its
distinctiveness. There could be a need for a refresh to stay relevant
to evolving customer preferences.
Marketing Mix:
Product Mix: Chevrolet offered a good range of cars catering to
budget-conscious buyers (Beat) and aspirational segments (Cruze).
However, they might not have kept pace with the growing SUV
market.
Pricing Strategy: Chevrolet's pricing was competitive, but rival
brands may have offered more aggressive deals.
Distribution Channels: Their dealership network was extensive, but
some might argue it lacked penetration in Tier 2 and 3 cities where
car sales are growing.
Promotional Activities: Chevrolet leveraged a mix of traditional
media (TV, print) and sponsorships. However, the effectiveness of
these methods compared to digital marketing could be evaluated.
Digital Marketing Integration:
Strengths: Chevrolet did utilise digital channels like targeted
advertising and social media.
Weaknesses: Their digital presence might not have been as strong
as competitors who heavily invested in online marketing and
customer engagement.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS
HR POLICIES EVALUATION
STRENGTHS:
OPPORTUNITIES
Electric Vehicle Market: The growing demand for EVs presents an
opportunity for Chevrolet to expand its market share in this segment.
By capitalising on its brand recognition and technological
advancements, Chevrolet can become a leader in the EV revolution.
Fuel Price Fluctuations: Rising fuel prices may decrease demand for
Chevrolet's less fuel-efficient vehicles. To counter this threat,
Chevrolet could focus on promoting its fuel-efficient vehicles and
developing a wider range of electric and alternative fuel vehicles.
Political:
Economic:
Economic Growth: A robust global economy can lead to increased
consumer spending on new vehicles. Conversely, a recession can
cause a decline in consumer demand and vehicle sales.
Inflation: Inflation can erode consumer purchasing power and raise
production costs for Chevrolet. If inflation outpaces wage growth,
consumers will have less money to spend on discretionary purchases
like new cars.
Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact consumer demand
for certain types of vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks. When fuel
prices are high, consumers may be more likely to purchase smaller,
more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Social:
Consumer Preferences: Shifting consumer preferences towards
electric vehicles, safety features, and connectivity can influence
Chevrolet's product development strategy. The growing demand for
electric vehicles (EVs), for example, is prompting Chevrolet to invest
in the development of new EV models.
Demographics: An ageing population may lead to a higher demand
for vehicles that are easier to access, featuring elements like higher
seating positions and wider door openings.
Social Media: Social media can be a powerful tool for Chevrolet to
connect with customers and build brand awareness. Chevrolet can
leverage social media platforms to share news about new products,
engage in conversations with customers, and cultivate a community
around the brand.
.
Technological:
Autonomous Vehicles: The development of autonomous vehicles
could disrupt the traditional car ownership model. In the future,
consumers may choose to purchase rides from self-driving car
companies rather than owning their own vehicles. This could pose a
challenge to Chevrolet's traditional business model.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Advancements in
ADAS technology can improve safety and potentially lead to lower
insurance costs for Chevrolet vehicles. ADAS features such as
automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning can help to
prevent accidents.
Manufacturing Technologies: New manufacturing technologies can
help Chevrolet improve production efficiency and reduce costs. For
example, the use of robotics and automation can help to streamline
the production process and reduce labour costs.
Environmental:
Legal: