Why Toyota Fortuner over Range Rover? Multiple theories emerge behind PM Modis drive with Putin
As of now, no official explanation has been given by the government. One prominent theory suggests that the leaders chose a Japanese brand as a symbolic message to the West. The Indian PM typically uses a Range Rover and a Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard—both European brands. The move comes at a time when both nations continue to face severe sanctions from Western countries as part of the Ukraine conflict.
New Delhi: The India–Russia meeting after four years has raised eyebrows worldwide. The visit is considered iconic for multiple reasons, including the Indian Prime Minister breaking protocol to receive President Putin. The greeting was followed by a warm hug and handshake. However, what caught the most attention was the leaders choosing a white Toyota Fortuner to drive to the PM’s residence instead of the Indian leader’s usual Range Rover.
The change in the choice of vehicle has led to several speculations among analysts and experts. At the same time, the move might have been completely unintentional.
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A "symbolic message to the West"
As of now, no official explanation has been given by the government. One prominent theory suggests that the leaders chose a Japanese brand as a symbolic message to the West. The Indian PM typically uses a Range Rover and a Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard—both European brands. The move comes at a time when both nations continue to face severe sanctions from Western countries as part of the Ukraine conflict.
Defence analyst Colonel Rohit Dev described it as "a message to the West.” He highlighted that transporting Putin in a British or German vehicle could have projected a negative image.
It is significant that both the UK and Germany have been vocal supporters of Kyiv and have imposed sanctions on Russia for a long time. A social media user even commented that the "selection of a non-European Asian brand cleverly bypasses the sanctions narrative.”
The Indian angle
Some experts believe the choice may also be linked to promoting the Make in India initiative, as many Fortuner models are manufactured domestically. Moreover, the Fortuner Sigma 4 carried a Maharashtra number plate, which did not escape the attention of observers.
Coincidentally, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also used a white Fortuner while accompanying Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov to the National War Memorial. That event has further fuelled the debate over whether the choice was strategic.
What if it wasn’t deliberate?
A few experts also suggested that the Fortuner may have been chosen simply for practical reasons. Range Rovers do not offer a third row of seats, whereas the Toyota’s third row comfortably accommodated both leaders along with their interpreters.