Dilma Auto Trading Drives Innovation: Unveiling Lanka's First Locally Manufactured Three-Wheeler, ChangE DP 200

Breaking new ground in the automotive landscape of Sri Lanka, Dilma Auto Trading, a seasoned player in the importation of Three Wheeler and Motor Bike spare parts since 2003, is set to launch the nation's inaugural locally manufactured three-wheeler. Branded as ChangE DP 200, the vehicle is poised to hit the market next year with an enticing price tag of under Rs. 1 million.

Chamdima Dias, the Managing Director of Dilma Auto Trading, emphasized the strategic move to venture into local manufacturing. Recognizing the sustained demand for three-wheelers, often regarded as the 'common man's vehicle,' Dias highlighted the significance of this endeavor, especially in the context of the import ban that has restricted three-wheeler imports. He noted that the existing three-wheeler fleet, albeit with modifications, continues to operate, revealing an unmet demand for these vehicles.

Dilma Auto Trading, which began its operations in 1995 and transitioned into a limited liability company in 2014, has forged strong ties with Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Leveraging these connections, the company initially ventured into the manufacturing of rubber and plastic products for three-wheelers. The success and demand for these locally manufactured components prompted Dilma Auto Trading to take the bold step of assembling a locally manufactured three-wheeler tailored to meet local standards.

The prototype of the ChangE DP 200 has already been designed, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and responding to market needs. Seeking technical expertise and quality certification, Dilma Auto Trading has collaborated with the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD) in Ja Ela.

Dias highlighted the value addition of over 40% in this venture, anticipating further growth with increasing sales. As a part of Dilma Capital Holdings Private Limited, founded in 2014, Dilma Auto Trading is a key player in a group of companies that includes Petroleum System International, Desinghe Pathirage Motor Company, DAT Management Services, Dilma Poly Preen Engineering, and Dilma Capital Holdings.

Looking ahead, Dilma Auto Trading envisions a shift towards electric three-wheeler production, aligning with the global trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. The unveiling of ChangE DP 200 marks not only a milestone in Sri Lanka's automotive history but also signals a promising future for indigenous automotive manufacturing in the country.

Setting the Bar High: NERD Director General Applauds Dilma Auto Trading's Locally Assembled Three-Wheeler

Dr. Jayathu G Samarawickrama, the Director General of the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD), has expressed admiration for the locally assembled three-wheeler developed by Dilma Auto Trading. Acknowledging the vehicle's impressive standards, Dr. Samarawickrama highlighted the incorporation of additional features to cater to the specific needs of the local market.

In commending Dilma Auto Trading's initiative, Dr. Samarawickrama emphasized the elevated quality of the three-wheeler, emphasizing its alignment with local requirements. The collaborative efforts between Dilma Auto Trading and NERD reflect a commitment to excellence and innovation in the automotive sector, setting a high standard for locally produced vehicles.

As Sri Lanka embraces the introduction of the ChangE DP 200, this commendation from NERD further underscores the significance of indigenous manufacturing endeavors that prioritize quality, functionality, and responsiveness to the unique demands of the local market. The accolades from NERD contribute to the growing recognition of Dilma Auto Trading's contribution to the automotive landscape, marking a promising chapter in Sri Lanka's journey toward self-sufficiency in vehicle manufacturing.

In conclusion, the commendation from NERD Director General Dr. Jayathu G Samarawickrama serves as a testament to the notable achievement of Dilma Auto Trading in producing Sri Lanka's first locally assembled three-wheeler, the ChangE DP 200. The acknowledgment of the vehicle's high standards and tailored features reflects a significant milestone in the realm of indigenous automotive manufacturing.

As the automotive landscape in Sri Lanka evolves with the introduction of ChangE DP 200, the collaboration between Dilma Auto Trading and NERD sets a commendable precedent for local innovation, quality, and responsiveness to market needs. This venture not only elevates the standards of locally assembled vehicles but also reinforces the potential for self-sufficiency in the country's automotive industry.

The accolades from NERD underscore the positive trajectory of Dilma Auto Trading's foray into manufacturing, signaling a promising future for the company and contributing to the broader narrative of Sri Lanka's pursuit of excellence in the automotive sector. The ChangE DP 200 stands not just as a three-wheeler but as a symbol of ingenuity, collaboration, and progress in the realm of homegrown automotive solutions.