Panasonic Launches Washer for Curry Stains in India

New Delhi, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Panasonic Corp. <6752> has launched a washing machine with a designated program for curry stains in India, the first of its kind in the South Asian country. The Japanese home appliance maker aims to edge out rivals by adding the special feature for India's national dish to its washing machines. The company's Panasonic India Pvt. Ltd. unit studied curries from all over India with an expert on the country's cuisine. Analyzing ingredients in curries, including turmeric, chili and mustard, Panasonic found the best combination of water temperature, water flow and length of washing program for tackling curry stains, after some 18 months of work. The special program is included in high-end models of a washing machine series launched this month, priced between some 22,000 and 29,000 rupees. India's penetration rate for washing machines is only around 10 pct, leaving enough room for considerable growth in sales. In the market dominated by South Korean makers, including Samsung Electronics Co., Panasonic is mainly targeting rapidly growing populations of middle- or high-income earners. END