Business Line reported that with car makers ramping up exports, Ennore port is expected to reach full capacity in 2 years.

According to Mr SP Velumani CMD of Ennore Port Ltd, the port shipped 1.04 lakh cars last year. This year, it will go up to 1.6 lakh cars, next year exports are expected to touch 1.8 lakh units.

Mr Velumani on the sidelines of Renault's first export from Ennore with 350 units of the compact SUV Duster said that in 2 years, the full capacity of 3 lakh units will be used.

The Ennore port is fast emerging as an alternative to the Chennai Port, which is facing issues of congestion.

On why Renault chose the Ennore port, Mr Marc Nassif MD of Renault India said that the port provides adequate capacity and the authorities are also willing and helpful.

Japanese carmaker Nissan exported 80,000 units last year from the Ennore port. This year, it will ship 1.2 lakh units, in 2 years it could hike to 1.8 lakh units.

However, Toyota is looking at exporting 30,000 units this year and increase it to 80,000 units next year. US auto major Ford is expected to export 30,000 units this year. Korean carmaker Hyundai uses the Chennai port extensively for exports.