The arrival of TATA Nano was announced on January 10th, and the news articles (domestic and international) have been ceaseless since. Its been amusing to listen to the foreign media's collective minds boggling at everything from the demand for such a low cost automobile to the use of the term 'lakh'. As more and more news from the subcontinent starts merging with major news streams, they will soon become used to both our love of a bargain and our numbering system.

My realisation, and 'prediction for 2008' is a bit delayed, but it occurred to me while listening to http://www.onpointradio.org/shows/2008/01/20080122_b_main.asp that Nano will define 2008. If supply can meet demand, the 'accessorisation' of the car is going to provide a massive opportunity for the shrewd. Ownership will be a source of pride that will need to be bolstered by individualisation and customisation (in an attempt to distiguish one's car from the other hundreds of millions predicted to be sold). Services and products providing said customisation is going to create a lucrative Nano-specific industry.

So, here's to 2008: Year of the Nano.