In the aftermath of the severe cyclonic storm Michaung, which made landfall near Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh on December 5, automotive giants in India are stepping up to support their customers.
Mahindra and Mahindra
Amidst the recovery efforts, Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a special initiative to assist the brand’s SUV owners affected by the cyclone. The support package includes complimentary roadside assistance within 50 kilometres, enabling towing to the nearest authorised workshop. Additionally, affected customers will benefit from a no-cost inspection and damage assessment, along with financial relief through special discounts on the repair invoice's customer liability component. This initiative remains valid until December 31, 2023, providing affected customers with ample time to avail these services. Mahindra also emphasises safety advice for submerged SUVs, urging owners not to start their vehicles to prevent further damage.
Tata Motors
Meanwhile, Tata Motors’ service plan for customers impacted by Cyclone Michaung in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh includes an extension of warranty and service periods, covering contracts expiring between December 1, 2023 and December 15, 2023, with validity extended until December 31, 2023. The carmaker has established a dedicated emergency road assistance team, activated a 24X7 helpdesk reachable at 1800-209-8282, and offers free towing assistance to the nearest dealership. The support initiatives will remain available until the end of the year.
Toyota India
Similarly, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has also implemented special support measures for its customers in cyclone-impacted areas of Chennai and Andhra Pradesh. It has set up special emergency helpline numbers and designated personnel to provide immediate assistance. Additionally, Toyota Tsusho Insurance Broker India (TTIBI) is communicating essential information to customers regarding precautions and guidelines for vehicle handling during flood situations. TKM's dealer outlets are facilitating vehicle pickup and drop services at customers' doorsteps using specially equipped Hilux vehicles for rescue and movement of submerged cars to Toyota dealer outlets for repair and servicing.
Renault India
In flood-affected areas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Renault India has implemented initiatives such as SMS alerts and app notifications for precautionary measures. It’s also offering free roadside assistance and will reimburse towing costs. To prioritise vehicle recovery, 15 additional towing trucks have been deployed, and a 24x7 helpline team has been reinforced for efficient assistance. Measures include extended workshop hours, parts inventory arrangements, and collaboration with insurance companies for faster claims.
Volkswagen India
Volkswagen Passenger Cars India is offering extended service support to flood-affected customers in Chennai. The company is providing complimentary roadside assistance to stranded customers and will conduct comprehensive service checks for vehicles to ensure the repair of flood-related damages. Volkswagen has also issued standardised repair guidelines across dealerships and will ensure that sufficient manpower and spare parts are available.
Yamaha Motors India
India Yamaha Motor (IYM) has also extended a special support initiative to its customers in cyclone-affected Chennai and nearby areas including Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and Kanchipuram. The company will offer free roadside assistance (helpline number 1800-3093-968) and check-up, along with flushing of the affected vehicle. Starting from December 8, 2023, the special service campaign will continue till the end of the month. Among other initiatives, the brand will offer 100 percent lube support in case of engine overhauling and ensure delivery of parts within 24 hours of the order.
MG Motors India
MG Motors has announced a one-month extension on various support services for customers whose Roadside Assistance (RSA), Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC), warranty, and extended warranties are set to expire between December 1 and December 31, 2023. To ensure continuous support, MG has established a dedicated 24/7 helpline reachable at 1800 100 6464 and has deployed a Quick Response Team in Chennai, equipped to address a range of customer needs. The company is conducting home visits with its service team who will assess the condition of vehicles on-site and coordinate the towing of affected cars to the nearest workshop. Dedicated trucks have also been deployed to ensure a swift and efficient towing process.
Skoda India
Skoda Auto India is offering free Road Side Assistance (RSA) pickup support, extending the assistance even to customers who do not have RSA. The company has disseminated standardised repair guidelines across its dealerships, ensuring consistency and efficiency in addressing vehicle-related issues. Additionally, the company has deployed sufficient manpower and spare parts to meet the service demands. Customers facing issues with their vehicles due to the cyclone can reach out to Škoda Roadside Assistance by calling 1800 209 4646 or 1800 102 6464 for prompt assistance. The free RSA support will remain active until December 31, 2023.
About Cyclone Michaung
Michaung originated as a low-pressure area in the Gulf of Thailand, later intensifying into a cyclonic storm as it crossed into the Bay of Bengal. The storm brought sustained winds of up to 110 kilometres per hour and heavy rainfall to northeastern Tamil Nadu and southeastern Andhra Pradesh. As per latest media reports, it has claimed the lives of at least 17 people, prompting evacuation and temporary relocation of over 41,000 people.