Economical mode of transportation vital:

Micro Cars targets export market

Harshini PERERA

Chief Guest Agriculture Minister Hemakumara Nanayakara with Executive Director Renuka Agrifoods Ltd Shamindra Rajiyah (right) and Director Manufacturing Renuka Agrifoods Ltd S. Vasanthakumar.

The vision of Micro Cars Ltd is to provide an economical, reliable and decent mode of transportation to every household in Sri Lanka as an alternative solution for transportation, said Chairman/CEO, Micro Cars Ltd., Dr. Lawrence Perera. He said that since the inception of the company in 1999 it had catered to the needs of many who sought an economical mode of transportation.

Q: How do you see the market for automobiles in Sri Lanka?

A: The automobile industry in Sri Lanka and the world over was badly affected by the recent recession. Last year was satisfactory for Micro Cars Ltd. Micro Cars Ltd has a wide portfolio range that it could survive in a time of recession. We feel that this temporary setback will return to normalcy. There are ups and downs in every business that anyone has to face.

Q: What is the growth rate of your company?

A: There was a growth rate of 25 percent last year and we are still maintaining 15 percent at present. Micro Cars Ltd has around 450 workers and they have received a rigorous training. Hence, our vehicles meet international standards. We have already sent models of our vehicles to several countries to explore the international market and we can expect a growth in sales.

Q: How do you compete with other manufacturers and importers?

A: Competition in any industry is important. Though there is competition, there has been immense support from the public who needed a local brand. When there is competition we can improve and the user will get a better deal at the end of the day.

Q: What are your new developments?

A: Transportation in any country is vital for development, like the vein in a human body. Therefore, we try to provide transportation in every possible way to address that requirement.

We have introduced four-wheel vehicles and a Double Decker with the capacity of 102 passengers. We expect it to change the image of Colombo. When Double Deckers run on the city roads it will have a positive impact on foreign investors and they will have confidence in Sri Lanka as a reliable destination for investments.

We have also developed a train called Lanka Econo rail. This was not put in to practice due to certain reasons. Now we can reconsider this under the guidance of the Government since it addresses congestion in mass transportation.

There will be a demand for transportation and agricultural produce transportation along the new routes such as the A9 highway and roads in other parts of the country.

When transportation improves, the country will also improve. In that sense, we can expect a very productive nation. This is why countries such as Germany, Japan, China and Singapore have focused on transportation. Micro Cars Ltd has started manufacturing a local tractor called Micro Agri. Simultaneously, we will also manufacture a Micro Prime-mover mainly for container and oil transportation.

We also developed a security vehicle recently and are targeting export markets such as India and Pakistan. We have sent our models to India which is a prospective market.

Q: Have you found any foreign market for your products?

A: We have discussed the matter with the Caribbean Islands and signed an agreement but due to the global crisis, the project is still in the pipe line.

Q: How do you expect to expand your company?

A: We recently added a new wing to the factory in Polgahawela. Last year was a flat year for us. Therefore, we can hope for a better market next year.

Q: What are your other plans?

A: We have a plan to promote our small car in the Northern and the Eastern areas. At the same time we will deploy the Micro bus on the A9 highway to deal with mass transportation. It has the latest facilities such as air-conditioning with air-suspension and the ABS brake system.

Q: What is your advice to young people?

A: My advice to young people is to do the right thing.

I think time management is very important while one should concentrate on how to adopt new technologies.

Q: What is your philosophy in life?

A: My philosophy is to do the right thing and not to trouble others. I am ready to help those in need.

Q: How do you spend your leisure?

A: I am interested in reading. I spend time with my family and admire natural beauty.

Tea with Dr. Lawrence Perera

[Profile]

Name: Dr. Lawrence Perera

School attended: St. Peter's College, Bambalapitiya, St. Anthony College, Katugastota

Civil Status: Married and has two children Professional

qualifications: Certified Automobile Engineer, Fellow Member of the Motor Institute of UK

Experience: Over 34 years' experience in the automobile industry

Sports: Swimming, Badminton and indoor games.