World’s number one car manufacturer Toyota Motor Corporation is planning to expand in India. So, as a part of this expansion drive, it is contemplating to introduce its small car brand Daihatsu in India.

Toyota has been exporting Daihatsu models to the US since February 1992. Daihatsu is Japan’s largest mini car maker and sells cars in over 100 countries. Daihatsu is famous for its mini-cars and are doing very well in the markets of Indonesia and Malaysia. It has recently launched the 660cc Mira Cocoa, which is very suitable for woman drivers. Daihatsu’s passenger car range includes the Materia, the Copen, the Sirion and the Curore or the Charade with engine capacities of up to 1.5 litres.

Now India is going to welcome an all-new mini car by late 2010 from Daihatsu. India’s first Daihatsu car will come with a 600 cc engine.

India is a hub for small cars and Toyota has been eyeing the Indian small car market for some time. Daihatsu will complete against car makers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai in India amongst others players.

The Indian arm of Toyota is investing Rs 3200 Crore for a new plant in Karnataka, which will be meant only for its upcoming small car.

Toyota ventured into the Indian car market twelve years ago and has a minimal market share of 3 per cent. Toyota Kirloskar Motors is evaluating to increase its market share by 2015. Last year, Toyota Kirloskar Motors sold around 46,892 units in the domestic market and expects to sell 52,000 for the current year.

After the Land Cruiser and the Prado, Toyota launched its third Sports Utility vehicle (SUV) Fortuner in the Indian market on Monday.