New Delhi, Jan 14: Finance Minister P. Chidambaram took time to visit Auto Expo, the ongoing automobile exhibition in New Delhi.

Chidambaram, who is currently reviewing fuel prices in India, had earlier expressed appreciation for Tata Motors coming out with 'Nano', the world's most economical as well as eco-friendly car.

The 4-seater Nano, with a 625cc engine, will have a dealer price of 100,000 rupees (2,500 dollar) -- about half the cost of the cheapest car in today's market, a 25-year old model from rival Maruti Suzuki.

Chidambaram also visited the other pavilions such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Volkswagen and Honda.

About 150,000 auto buffs are expected to visit the show.

Rising incomes and new models are boosting car sales in India where only eight people in every 1,000 own a car, compared to 300-500 in many western countries.

Annual passenger vehicle sales are expected to double to 2 million units by 2010. Small cars currently make up nearly two-thirds of the domestic market. (ANI)