The Tata franchise changed hands in late 1999 and the new owners are accelerating plans to launch a budget sports utility vehicle. The company says the car will go on sale around the middle of this year. Meanwhile, dealers are continuing to survive on the budget priced pick-up that launched the franchise. This continues to sell in relatively small number to farmers and small builders attracted by low cost and high reliability. There are a number of open points around the country, though it is hard to see the appeal of the vehicles outside rural areas. A new small car is planned for later this year.