Autoindia

Launch of Bonus Pack including Koenigsegg Agera Forza Motorsport 4

2012-01-31T23:58:00.001-08:00

The new 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo made its debut in Forza Motorsport 4 about two weeks ago. Now, Turn 10 Studis available that will add another 10 vehicles to your list of cars to drive, including the Koenigsegg Agera supercar and the electric Tesla Roadster Sport.

The new Launch Bonus Pack includes a collection of ten cars previously that would be on hand only to those Forza 4 players who had either pre-ordered from specific retail outlets, or the game is picked up during its first run via the "Ship Bonus Car Pack." The new Launch Bonus Pack is available for Xbox Live and can be yours for 560 Microsoft Points.

The list of 10 cars included in the new Launch Bonus Pack include: 1997 Lexus SC300, 1965 Mustang GT Coupe, 2011 Ruf RGT-8, 2011 Tesla Roadster Sport, 2011 Koenigsegg Agera, 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, 2011 Subaru WRX STI, 2011 MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, 2011 BMW 1-Series M Coupe, and 2011 Honda CR-Z EX.

GBH convicted of Adrian Sutil

2012-01-31T23:56:00.001-08:00

Adrian Sutil has been convicted of causing grievous bodily harm and given an 18-month suspended sentence by a Munich court.

District judge Christiane Thiemann also fined the former Force India Formula One driver €200,000 (Rs 1.3 crore) after he was found guilty of injuring Eric Lux, chief executive of Lotus team owners Genii Capital, by striking him with a champagne glass and causing a wound in his neck which required 24 stitches.

In the 2011 Chinese Grand Prix the incident happened in a nightclub in Shanghai following.

Court spokeswoman Ingrid Kaps said the 29-year-old German driver's fine would go to charities of the court's choosing.

McLaren's Lewis Hamilton had initially been scheduled to appear as a witness, but was excused due to team duties.

7 percent revenue growth posted by TVS Motor Company in Q3

2012-01-31T23:54:00.001-08:00

TVS Motor Company has registered 7 percent growth in revenue in the third quarter of the current financial year. The company’s revenues grew to Rs. 1762 crore in the quarter ended December 2011 from Rs. 1647 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

Profit before tax (PBT) during the quarter under review was higher at Rs. 75.56 crore, compared to Rs. 70.29 crore recorded in the same period of the previous year. Profit after tax (PAT) in the current quarter was Rs. 56.53 crore compared to Rs. 55.75 crore in the previous comparable quarter. For the period April 2011 to December 2011, the company’s cumulative PBT and PAT were substantially higher than the comparable period of the previous year. While cumulative PBT for nine months ending December 2011 increased to Rs.254.28 crore from Rs.188.52 crore in the previous year, the cumulative PAT for nine months ending December 2011 increased to Rs.191.84 crore from Rs.150.90 crore reported in the previous comparable period.

In the third quarter of the current fiscal, the company reported total two-wheeler sales at 5.19 lakh units, compared with 5.18 lakh units in the corresponding period of the previous year. Scooter sales grew by 11 percent to 1.38 lakh units in the current quarter from 1.24 lakh units during the corresponding quarter of the previous year, while motorcycles registered sales of 1.93 lakh units in the reporting quarter against 2.11 lakh units in the quarter ended December 2010. Two wheeler exports registered 24 percent growth with sales increasing to 63,700 units in the current quarter from 51,441 units in the quarter ended December 2010. Three wheeler sales during the quarter were lower at 8,899 units in the quarter ended December 2011 from 10,079 units in the quarter ended December 2010.

During the quarter, PT TVS Motor Company Indonesia registered total two wheeler sales of 4,033 units in comparison with 3,800 units recorded in the same period of the previous year. For the nine months ending December 2011, PT TVS Motor Company recorded cumulative sales growth of 28 percent with 18,905 units against 14,809 units in the comparable period of the previous year.

GL 'Grand Edition' to launch by Mercedes-Benz India at Rs 60.99 lakh

2012-01-31T23:50:00.001-08:00

The GL-Class ‘Grand Edition’ Mercedes-Benz India has launched, further re-iterating its position of offering the widest product portfolio for the Indian luxury car market. The GL Class is one of the biggest luxury SUVs in its segment and the launch of the ‘Grand Edition’ further strengthens the company’s presence in the increasingly popular SUV segment in India.

Speaking on the launch of the vehicle Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India said, “India has burgeoning potential in terms of demand for SUVs. The superior connectivity and improved road conditions are fuelling this growth. Mercedes-Benz is an aspirational brand and GL-Class has received very encouraging response from the customers since its launch in India. The GL ‘Grand Edition’ has been aggressively priced for the Indian market and like its success in other markets; the introduction of the vehicle will further strengthen our dominance in the luxury Large SUV segment. The GL ‘Grand Edition’ with its proven off-roading prowess and luxurious interiors is ideal to suit the taste of the growing number of off-roading aficionados in India”.

The distinctive, new GL- Class Grand Edition’s level of spaciousness and comfort is at par with that of a luxury saloon. Features reserved exclusively for the ‘Grand Edition’ includes unique light-alloy wheels with 50.8 cm (20-inch) tyres, in Himalayan grey metallic with a high-sheen finish, append to the vehicle’s exclusivity. The rich quality, latest design with two-tone leather seats in the color combinations black / porcelain and black / maroon leather upholstery with individual fluting pattern and contrasting topstitching, is exclusive to the Grand Edition.

The exclusive front end design of the ‘Grand Edition’ is unique, the dark-tinted headlamps, a radiator grille with black, high-sheen louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps define this special edition. There are other visual highlights too, such as metallic paint finishes, heat-insulating and infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round, aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs, and divided exhaust tailpipe trim. The ‘Grand Edition’ accommodates up to seven people with exceptional level of spaciousness. For the front passenger the comfort headrests for the driver, ambient lighting, roof liner in black designo fabric, velour floor mats with contrasting stitching and ‘Grand Edition’ lettering, ‘Grand Edition’ badge on the centre console, adds to the allure of the vehicle.

The GL-Class Grand Edition packs convenient features like easy-pack tailgate and extremely practical electronically folding third row seat that ensures convenience for its occupants. Although the GL’s size is intimidating, parking it is one of the easiest tasks, as it comes equipped with Parktronic and Comand APS system with a reversing camera that help manoeuvre the car easily in tight parking spaces. The Thermotronic luxury automatic climate control helps maintain different temperatures for the driver, front and rear passengers giving each their own comfort zone.

The commanding GL-Class ‘Grand Edition’ offers remarkable handling and assures for an excellent ride comfort coupled with the most important safety features which is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz. With innovative 4matic all-wheel drive, Airmatic air suspension, Direct-Steer system and the Adaptive Damping System ADS, which also comes as standard adds to the already feature packed car. While the GL cuts an imposing figure on the asphalt, it also has legitimate off-road credentials. The modified Airmatic air suspension enables great ground clearance. For the challenging terrains the dynamic handling control systems such as Off-Road ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and Hill-Start Assist also make life easier for the GL-Class driver.

The GL ‘Grand Edition’ will be available in two variants Executive and Luxury. While the Executive will be priced at INR 60, 99,000 (ex-showroom), the Luxury variant will be priced at INR 65, 50,000(ex-showroom).

Sudhir Rao named managing director of Skoda Auto India

2012-01-31T23:47:00.001-08:00

Sudhir Rao will take charge as the managing director of Škoda Auto India Private Limited, effective from March 1st, 2012. Born in India, Rao has extensive experience in the international automobile industry and is considered a profound expert on the Indian market.

“We are very pleased to be hiring Sudhir Rao as managing director (MD) for Škoda Auto India,” says Škoda Auto CEO Winfried Vahland, adding, “he is a top automobile manager with many years of experience and an international background. He also knows the Indian market perfectly. Under his responsibility, Škoda Auto India will vigorously continue its successful evolution of the past ten years and further consolidate its good position.

Before joining Škoda Auto India, Rao ran an international car brand’s India activities as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to this, the 52-year old held several management positions in the international automobile industry, among them CEO of India’s leading independent maker of engines and transmissions. Until the mid-2000s, Rao worked primarily in the USA and in Europe. He studied business administration and engineering in India and in the USA.

The Indian market has great importance for Škoda’s 2018 growth strategy. By 2018, the Czech manufacturer is aiming to raise worldwide sales to a minimum of 1.5 million per year. In 2011, Škoda’s deliveries in India rose almost by 50 percent to a new record high of about 30,000 vehicles. In the years ahead, Škoda intends to substantially strengthen the growth trend on the subcontinent, especially thanks to the new Rapid compact saloon introduced in late 2011. The Rapid, produced in Pune, establishes a presence for Škoda in the market’s largest vehicle segment for the first time.

To invest Rs 150 crore by Scania to set up plant in Bangalore

2012-01-31T23:45:00.001-08:00

bNEW DELHI: Announcement came from Swedish commercial vehicle-maker Scania today that it is going invest Rs 150 crore to set up a manufacturing facility in India in the next one year.

The proposed plant in Bangalore will roll out 2,000 heavy haulage trucks and 1,000 inter-city buses and coaches over the next five years.

The company, which has been present in India with a partner, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), since 2007, has now formed a new entity -- Scania Commercial Vehicles India.

"This investment furthers Scania's commitment to the Indian market and this is the right moment for us... This unit will enable us to shorten our lead times and enhance service levels to our customers," Scania Managing Director Henrik Fagrenius said in a statement.

With the Indian commercial vehicles segment likely to register a growth of 8-10 per cent this year, the outlook for the industry is very promising, he added.

The company said it will invest Rs 150 crore in the coming year to set up the plant in Narasapura Industrial Area, Bangalore, and the first truck will be rolled out in 2013.

"Scania foresees a number of benefits with establishing the new plant... This will also go a long way in sourcing of components locally from India," Fagrenius said, without sharing details about component sourcing plans.

This plant will serve as a completely knocked down assembly unit for truck and bus chassis during Phase I of operations.

Bus body-building and service workshops for trucks and buses will also be a part of this facility at a later point of time, the company said.

Talking about the capacity of the facility, Scania said it plans to produce around 2,000 heavy haulage trucks and 1,000 inter-city buses and coaches from this plant within five years.

Once fully operational, the plant will employ up to 800 people over the next five years.

It was also announced by the company that it will sell engines to vehicle manufacturers in India.

"Scania is also preparing to sell engines to its OEM customers. These engines are more compact, resulting in lesser fuel consumption, leading to lower emissions," the firm said without sharing details.

Currently, Scania has several sales and service points through L&T. So far, L&T has distributed over 600 of Scania's heavy trucks in India. This relationship will continue, the company said.

"Scania's direct presence will further boost the company's sales, service, greater variety of models sold and shorter availability time," it added.

The company's new Indian entity will establish a plant for bodywork and undertake the outfitting of trucks and buses, as well as set up a parts depot within the country.

Olympic hockey qualifiers sponsored by Hero MotoCorp

2012-01-31T23:43:00.001-08:00

NEW DELHI: One of the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers Hero Moto Corp Ltd (HMCL) will sponsor the men's and women's hockey qualifying events Feb 18-26 here for the 2012 London Olympics.

The qualifiers would feature six teams in both categories for two Olympic berths in the mega sporting event scheduled for July. The Hero FIH Road to London is the first of the three-leg Olympic qualifying events for the Olympic Games.

Following the round robin league, the teams ranked first and second will play and the winner will qualify for the Olympic Games, whereas the four team that are then left behind will play placement games for FIH World Ranking points.

"Hockey, being the national sport of the country, holds a special place in our hearts. We are pleased to partner with FIH in presenting the Hero FIH Road to London Olympic Hockey Qualifiers," Hero MotoCorp Ltd Managing Director and CEO Pawan Munjal said in a statement.

"I am sure there are millions of hockey fans across the country who wants to see a revival of the glorious hockey days of yore. We, therefore, consider it an absolute privilege to be playing our small role in reigniting the passion and popularity of hockey in the country," he added.

FIH president Leandro Negre said: "I am delighted to see Hero MotoCorp come on board as the title sponsor of the Olympic qualifiers. It's a crucial chance for India to qualify for London and I'm sure the Indian team and hockey fans everywhere also welcome their support."

The India leg of the qualifiers will feature the teams from India, Italy, Poland, Singapore, Canada and France. The Indian women's team will play against South Africa, Canada, Italy, Poland and Ukraine.

80 countries globally will view the tournament that is aired on Ten Sports.

Diesel variant of Brio hatchback introduced by Honda in 2012

2012-01-31T23:41:00.001-08:00

A joint venture between Japanese automobile manufacturer and Indian enterprise Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI) will soon come up with the diesel variant of its Honda Brio hatchback. Earlier, the company revealed that it is keen to bring the diesel variants of all its models by the year 2013.

Currently, the Indian automobile market is dominated by diesel variants. In the wake of continuous increase in petrol prices, automobile companies brought diesel versions of their car models. Hence, to withstand the fierce competition, Honda has to come up with its own diesel variants. The news of Honda Brio diesel variant has certainly brought relief to its potential customers in India.

As mentioned in the reports, HSCI will most probably introduce the diesel version of Honda Brio hatchback this year, around Diwali. The Japanese automobile manufacturer is running tests on its new diesel technology – common rail i-DTEC that will be installed in 1.2 litre version of Honda Brio. Once Honda Brio diesel is unveiled, the company would bring in diesel variants of Honda Jazz hatchback and City sedan in India.

As per the statement given by company’s spokesperson, "Honda is committed to bringing its diesel technology to key markets like India. And to ensure that Honda diesel is best suited to local conditions and offers optimum performance levels, Honda is conducting stringent tests at its R&D centres across several locations."

The Japanese auto maker made its debut in the Indian automobile market in the year 1995 and since then, it has outperformed major auto manufacturers in the country. However, from April to December 2011, the car sales for Honda tumbled by 27%. The absence of diesel variants in the Indian market was the prime reason. Natural disasters in Japan and then in Thailand forced Honda to halt the production and that is why the company started losing its customers across the globe.

Honda has bigger plans for the year 2012 and one among them is the early introduction of the diesel variants of its different car models. Once launched, the diesel variant of Brio hatchback will compete with diesel car models like Chevrolet Beat, Toyota Etios Liva, Hyundai i10 and Maruti Suzuki Ritz.

2012 F30 3-Series of BMW spotted in India

2012-01-31T23:39:00.001-08:00

feOne of the much awaited models that is the 2012 BMW F30 3-Series, among luxury car enthusiasts in the Indian market, was recently spotted in India, near the port of Mumbai. The F30 luxury car is scheduled to be launched in the country in the second half of year 2012. This is the second time when the car was spotted in India. Before this it was spotted testing in India last year.

Latest edition of 2012 BMW F30 3-Series model is speculated to be launched with a number of new engine options including a starting range 3 - cylinder diesel engine, 2.0L four cylinder turbo diesel engine (borrowed from the existing model of the car), and a turbocharged variant of the petrol engine. The powerful engine system of the car come incorporated with an 8 speed automatic transmission, sourced from Germany’s prominent transmission system maker ZF.

The major attractions of the car include longer wheelbase that will offer higher comfort, higher power output and better fuel economy. Moreover, a range of new age technological features will be offered with the car at both exterior and interior front, details of which are yet to be revealed by the company.

In Tenn.VW to hike Passat output, add 200 jobs

2012-01-31T23:32:00.001-08:00

1To boost output of the VW Passat at its new plant in Chattanooga planned by Volkswagen AG, Tenn., by 13 percent and add 200 jobs.

The automaker will hike production of the redesigned Passat from 31 to 35 cars per hour. According to VW the new jobs will be integrated into the plant's current two-shift operation and be filled by full-time Volkswagen employees.

The plant is currently staffed with 2,000 Volkswagen employees and an additional 500 workers employed by Aerotek, the automaker's staffing partner.

Volkswagen said it planned to hire production positions, supervisors and engineers.

The $1 billion plant opened in 2011 and is the centerpiece of a plan to boost annual U.S. sales of the VW brand to 800,000 by 2018.

U.S. sales of the VW brand hit 324,402 last year, up 26 percent from 256,830 in 2010 in an overall market that rose 10 percent.

Mini Roadster by 2012

2012-01-31T00:51:00.001-08:00

After passing of the months with the official unveiling of the new Mini Coupe, the company has decided it was time to "uncover" the Roadster version as well. Of course, everyone already knew what the new Roadster would look like with both the Coupe version and the Roadster Concept unveiled in 2009 making it on the scene before the Roadster.

To be honest, the Coupe and Roadster models are almost identical, except for the soft top, steeply raked windscreen, stainless steel roll bars, and the active rear spoiler that deploys at 50 mph. The new Roadster will be immediately recognized as a Mini thanks to features like the hexagonal contours of its radiator grille, the black border around the lower part of the body, chrome trim strips and surrounds, large circular headlights, rear lights positioned are vertically stacked on the outer extremes of the rear end, and the surrounds that is eye-catchy of the side indicators on the front side panels.

Like with the Coupe, the Roadster is powered by a 1.6-liter engine having the four-cylinder ranging from the base Coupe with 122 HP up to the John Cooper Works Coupe with 208 HP. The version especially SD gets a 141 HP turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine.

At Porsche's Leipzig plant 100,000th latest generation Cayenne rolls off production line

2012-01-31T00:46:00.001-08:00

The 100,000th second generation Cayenne was assembled in Leipzig just a few days ago. At the same time, this anniversary is considered as the curtain raiser for an eventful anniversary year at Porsche’s Saxony site. “Ten years ago the success story of Porsche Leipzig started. What was a greenfield site, today ranks among the most modern carplants in the world. In addition to the Cayenne, Leipzig is also where Porsche produces the very successful Panamera luxury saloon, approximately 70,000 units of which have now rolled off the production line. That is why more than 93,800 vehicles left the Porsche plant in Leipzig in 2011, more than in any year before”, says Wolfgang Leimgruber, Executive Board members of Production and Logistics of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG.

The 100,000th Cayenne is being made ready this very day for shipping to Brazil, where the SUV in “pure white” with a V8 engine will be handed over to its new owner. The Cayenne is being sold in more than 124 markets in currently five model variants spanning a power range from 180 kW (245 hp) to 368 kW (500 hp) and an average fuel consumption ranging from 7.2 to 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The second generation of the Cayenne has been produced in Leipzig since 2009 with the sports car manufacturer delivering over 360.00 units of the first generation to customers since 2002.

“Because of the consistently high demand for the Cayenne and Panamera we will be introducing a third production shift in Leipzig at the end of January. With the new production sequence, 500 vehicles on average will be produced each day,” Leimgruber adds. The introduction of a three shift operation is only one of many challenges in the near future. Building work for a major expansion of the plant is currently underway. A paint shop and body assembly line for an entirely new model line that will start to come off the Leipzig production line from the end of 2013 onward are among the facilities being built on a 17 hectare site. Porsche is investinga total of 500 million euro in the production site in Saxony for assembly of the Cajun, creating more than 1,000 new jobs.

Siegfried Bülow, President and Chief Executive Officer, explains: “2012 will therefore be an eventful and exciting year in many respects. We are welcoming many new employees, holding topping-out ceremonies on the new site, celebrating the 500,000th Porsche “Made in Leipzig” and last but not least the tenth production anniversary.”

Cadillac ATS by 2013

2012-01-31T00:41:00.001-08:00

After being rumored for quite some time, the new Cadillac ATS compact sedan has officially been unveiled at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Manufacturing of the car was mainly due to challenge some of the world’s best premium cars like the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes C-Class. It will go on sale in summer 2012.

Latest 2013 Cadillac ATS will be discern by its active shutter grille, LED-infused headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim, vertical taillights, and integrated trunk spoiler. It is also the first Cadillac model to carry the CUE infotainment system – that carry an eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen that is integrated into the top of the center instrument panel.

Possibility will be there for the customers to choose between three engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 200 HP, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 270 HP, and a 3.6-liter V6 with 318 HP. All three engines can be combined with a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission, as well as an optional all-wheel drive system.

"Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment," said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. "For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo."

Unveil of the New BMW DTM car

2012-01-30T23:57:00.001-08:00

The all new Castrol EDGE BMW M3 DTM livery was revealed today as the team unveiled the new design that will adorn one of the BMW motorsport cars during the 2012 DTM season. The sponsorship marks the continuation of Castrol’s long-standing technical partnership with the iconic car manufacturer.

Castrol EDGE, Castrol’s strongest oil yet, will feature prominently on the new Castrol EDGE BMW M3 DTM livery as part of a team of six BMW M3 DTM cars set to compete in the championship.

Donald Smith, Castrol Sponsorship Manager, said: “The DTM is one of the most spectacular racing series in Europe and pushes the drivers, teams and cars to the very limit. It is because of these high-performance demands that we research and develop our products through the extremes of motorsport. Castrol EDGE will deliver maximum engine performance and will give the team the strength to perform at the highest level.” BMW M3 DTM

In mini-truck segment of India Daimler might make the entry

2012-01-30T23:53:00.001-08:00

The LCV market of India is growing up by the day with more and more players eying the potential. Now Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a 100 per cent subsidiary of Daimler AG, Germany, and also the makers of Mercedes Benz cars may look to tap India’s mini-truck segment, challenging the country’s largest truck maker Tata Motors’ Ace, the current market leader in the category.

As per a report Bharat Benz, the India-specific brand that DICV unveiled earlier this month at the Delhi Auto Expo, is currently gearing up to launch its entire truck portfolio, comprising 17-19 vehicles in the 6-49-tonne range. It was mentioned that the company’s foray into the competitive 1-1.5-tonne truck segment would be based on the success of the Bharat Benz brand in the Indian market, currently controlled to the extent of 70 per cent by Mumbai-based Tata Motors and Chennai-based Ashok Leyland.

DICV Vice-President (R&D) Aydogan Cakmaz said that, “It is possible, but it should make business sense. We will undertake research and development to go for such a product. If at all we decide to enter this segment, it will take at least four to five years to do it.”

Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have market dominance in the segment, some other companies also plan to make inroads into the mini-truck space. Ashok Leyland has joined hands with Nissan, while Bajaj Auto has developed its own four-wheeler. Force Motors and Piaggio also have presence in the segment. “The segment has many players and it would be important for us that the product we offer meets our quality parameters,” added Cakmaz. The mini-truck category has huge demand in the Tier-II and -III cities. Tata Motors currently has 52 per cent market share in the light commercial vehicle segment, while Mahindra & Mahindra, with its Maxximo brand and some pick-ups, has 25 per cent.

The report also stated that Daimler, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of trucks above six tonnes, is focusing on developing India-specific products to better suit the local road conditions. With a total dedicated investment of over Rs 4,400 crore, DCIV’s green field plant at Oragadam, near Chennai, is going to be inaugurated soon. The plant’s initial production capacity of 36,000 units a year could be further ramped up to a technical capacity of 70,000 units a year. The company will launch its products in the market in the third quarter of this year. DICV has said its products will have as high as 85 per cent localistion to make those affordable.

Pulsar 200NS unveiled by Bajaj Auto which will be sold from April

2012-01-30T23:50:00.001-08:00

Bajaj Auto Ltd, the second largest two-wheeler maker of the country has pulled a fast one on its competitors by unveiling a new motorcycle model, Pulsar 200NS, which it plans to start selling early in the next fiscal year that starts April 1. However the price has not been revealed yet of the new Pulsar motorcycle.

The reports mentioned that the, the Pulsar 200NS will have a 200-cubic-centimeter engine and will be sold in addition to the four motorcycles it sells under the Pulsar brand--it sells Pulsar motorcycles with 135-cc, 150-cc, 180-cc and 220-cc engines. The model will compete with Honda Motor Co Co.'s CBR 250R and Yamaha Motor Co.'s R15 motorcycles, Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj said.

Bajaj MD Rajiv Bajaj was quoted as saying "The Pulsar 200NS will compete with other company models which are in the Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh price range. You can expect this model to be under Rs 1 lakh.’’ The company currently produces 1 million Pulsar motorcycles a year at its Chakan factory in the western Maharashtra state.

It was also reported that Pulsar 200 NS engine will have 3 sparks - Triple Spark Ignition System instead of the traditional twin - spark system which are seen in the current Pulsar motorcycles. Pulsar 200 NS is powered by a 199.5 cc engine that will generate a maximum power of 23 bhp @ 9,500 rpm and will deliver a maximum torque of 18.3 Nm at 8,000 rpm. Bajaj will manufacture Pulsar 200 NS at their unit in Chakan near Pune. Dry weight of new Pulsar 200 NS is 145 kgs. Bajaj new Pulsar 200 NS will have a top speed of 136 kmph, making it one of the fastest motor cycle made by Indian manufacturer. Bajaj new Pulsar 200 NS will be able to accelerate from 0-60 kmph in just 3.8 seconds while it will take just 9.8 seconds to cross 0-100 kmph mark. Apart from these exceptional figures, Pulsar 200 NS delivers a mileage of 58 kmph when driven at a constant speed 55 kmph.

In the luxury class in Switzerland Aston Martin Rapide considered to be the best once more

2012-01-30T23:46:00.003-08:00

The Aston Martin Rapide is once more the best car in the luxury class in Switzerland. For the third consecutive year, readers of the motoring magazine “Auto Illustrierte” crowned the four-door sports car of the English luxury manufacturer as the winner in the vote “The best cars 2012”.

For the past two years, the Rapide has prevailed against a strong field of competitors. This year the sports car received 26.9 percent of the readers’ votes, more than any other winner in class. Thus the Rapide defended its place well at the top of the podium again with a clear lead on the second and third placed contenders.

Jeffrey L Scott, Managing Director Aston Martin Lagonda of Europe, said at the award ceremony in Zurich on Wednesday evening: “We are proud that the Aston Martin Rapide has established itself fiercely in a strongly competitive market so successfully. This is shown also by this readers’ poll. Switzerland is traditionally one of the most important markets in Europe for Aston Martin. This past year we have closed successfully here. And our customers can again expect a lot from us in 2012.”

Aston Martin in Switzerland is represented by five dealerships: in Cadenazzo, Geneva, Safenwil, St. Gallen and Zurich. The Aston Martin Rapide was launched in the summer of 2010 and has since collected numerous awards from motoring publications as well as readers and design professionals worldwide. The reader’s choice “The best cars” of the magazine “Auto Illustrierte” was held this year for the 18th time, comprising of 311 models in 10 categories.

In the luxury class in Switzerland Aston Martin Rapide considered to be the best once more

2012-01-30T23:46:00.001-08:00

Manufacture of New Land Rover Defender could be in India

2012-01-30T23:43:00.001-08:00

Land Rover is planning smartly and is ready to earn some good cash in India with its new Defender. In fact Land Rover is planning to build-up its new car, Land Rover Defender in India itself at the Tata Motors’ manufacturing plant located in Pune, Maharashtra. The company might also send some of the models back to Europe for the final assembly in United Kingdom as a part of ‘reverse CKD’ process. Land Rover has a bit of practice in this and has already built Freelanders in the country to be sold in Asia.

Chairman of Tata Motors, Mr. Ratan Tata revealed the plan of building new Land Rover Defender in India. He mentioned that the firm will have twin advantages of cutting down the manufacturing costs of the car, which would assist in selling it at a reasonable price in Europe. Offering Land Rover Defender at an affordable price will surely rev up the sales of the car in the key Asia-Pacific car market. The new Land Rover Defender might have a body-on-frame kind of make against the monocoque design. The new design will certainly keep the arrangement of the present models along with proffering enhanced and improved packaging, dynamics, controls and comfort level.

According to the grapevine, the new Land Rover Defender is likely to sport enhanced and lightened version of much-appreciated Land Rover T5 ladder chassis, which is presently been used in Land Rover Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Discovery. The basic styling of the 2015 Defender will be done close to the fresh DC100 concepts by Land Rover. However, features like interior styling, grilles, wheels and lights will see a bit of change. If Land Rover Defender is manufactured in Pune, then some major parts like the suspension and Chassis would be shared with Tata Safari and Tata Aria.

Boost of Volt in California with Car-pool lane access

2012-01-30T23:41:00.001-08:00

DETROIT – Dealers of California Chevrolet hope that a revised, low-emissions version of the plug-in hybrid Volt will attract new buyers with a powerful carrot: access to car-pool lanes.

General Motors expects to have the car to California showrooms by early March, GM spokesman Rob Peterson says. It will be eligible for California's high-occupancy-vehicle lane sticker, a big perk that previous Volt buyers didn't get.

Peterson said that GM in November began curbing the number of Volts it allocated to California in anticipation of launching a low-emissions version. The new package also will qualify Volt buyers for a $1,500 state tax rebate. All Volts already qualify for a $7,500 federal tax break.

Some dealers have said they were disappointed that the Volt did not qualify for high-occupancy-vehicle status when it first launched in late 2010.

On the new package, GM engineers added a secondary air-injection pump to the Volt's catalytic converter that pipes air into the exhaust stream to strip out more pollutants.

Christopher Leggio, co-owner of three Chevy stores east of Los Angeles, believes car-pool eligibility will appeal to commuters. Thus far, most Volt customers have been environmentalists and wealthy tech guys intrigued by the technology, he says.

"We think that the second wave of Volt buyers will probably look more closely at the fact that it has an HOV sticker," says Leggio, whose Mark Christopher Auto Center has sold about 50 Volts since the car's launch a year ago. "That's huge in California."

Leggio says he doesn't think current Volts will be tougher to sell after the low-emissions version arrives. "There are plenty of buyers who like the car simply because it's environmentally friendly," he says.

GM sold 7,671 Volts in the United States last year. Nearly one-quarter of those were sold in California.

A star-studded Super Bowl planned by Honda

2012-01-30T23:37:00.001-08:00

LOS ANGELES -- American Honda Motor Co. will break out big-time celebrities and comedic license in a pair of 60-second TV commercials that will run during the Super Bowl.

An Acura spot -- the first Super Bowl appearance for the brand -- will feature comedian Jerry Seinfeld going to ridiculous lengths to bribe the man who holds the rights to the first 2015 Acura NSX supercar.

Meanwhile, Matthew Broderick will reprise his role as high school truant Ferris Bueller, calling in sick to an acting gig and spending the day gallivanting in a Honda CR-V crossover.

Both commercials will have 30-second versions that will run on TV through spring, as well as links to social media and "Easter egg" prize hunts. Outtakes and extended versions will run online on Honda's YouTube channel.

Honda is trying to drive traffic to Honda and Acura Web sites and showrooms desperate to rebound from last year's earthquake-related inventory shortages.

"We want to entertain an audience, engage them into the brand and generate buzz and excitement," said Mike Accavitti, American Honda's chief marketing officer. "The ads convey the product, message and brand in a memorable way to our target in a relevant way. That's what you want."

In the CR-V spot, Broderick calls in sick to his agent, then spends the day avoiding him while driving a CR-V between a roller-coaster ride, a museum tour and -- you guessed it -- singing in a parade.

The spot highlights the CR-V's Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, as well as a true test of the suspension that fans of Ferris Bueller's Day Off will appreciate.

The spot was directed by Todd Phillips, known for his work on The Hangover and Old School. The backing music for the spot, of course, is "Oh Yeah," by Yello.

"Ferris' whole thing was to smell the roses because life moves pretty fast," Accavitti said. "While many of our competitors are suggesting people use cars to escape life, we're saying, 'Go embrace it, have some fun.'"

In that sense, the Bueller spot is consistent with the mainstream CR-V campaign's "leap list," showing young adults following their dreams before they settle down to married life, Accavitti said.

2015 Acura NSX supercar

Special Edition of 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept

2012-01-30T03:19:00.001-08:00

Latest edition 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee was making the waves at the recent Houston Auto Show except that the SUV still didn’t have a name.

The production-ready concept vehicle is the subject of Jeep’s "Name My Ride" contest, an online competition that gives Jeep fans a chance to come up with the official name of the Grand Cherokee concept. The contest is currently being held at Jeep’s official website with the top three choices being elevated to another round of voting before the official winner is announced in May 2012.

As for the vehicle itself, this one-of-a-kind Grand Cherokee is based on Jeep’s Laredo X package and is highlighted by a bevy of stealth-inspired custom touches, including a Brilliant Black exterior finish, a black mesh grille, a chrome lower bumper trim, black headlamp bezels, a black liftgate light-bar, and a new set of 20" glossy-black aluminum wheels. The interior also comes with plenty of special features, particularly the leather-trimmed seats and heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, as well as key technological components, including a 9-speaker 506 watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview rear back-up camera, ParkSense rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, and last but certainly not least, the Uconnect hands-free communications system.

"Jeep enthusiasts have always appreciated limited-edition models and the ability to customize their vehicles," said Mike Manley, President and CEO of Jeep. "This new Grand Cherokee comes with a unique, ‘factory-customized’ stealth appearance directly from Jeep, and is certain to attract interest from an array of potential customers."

"If the level of excitement is what we anticipate, this new Grand Cherokee will be in Jeep showrooms this spring."

To that, we say, bring it on, Jeep! This special, one-off Grand Cherokee looks absolutely stunning.

Showcase of New Renault Alpine concept likely to be at Paris Motor Show

2012-01-30T03:17:00.001-08:00

Renault Alpine A110, one of the most popular and iconic cars of the French car maker Renault, is likely to mark its re entry in the global market very soon. It has been widely speculated that the company would be displaying a new version of this spectacular vehicle at the upcoming Paris Motors Show.

It is to be mentioned here that the Renault Alpine model was introduced in the global market way back in 1952, followed by its phase out after three decades in early 1990s. Now, as the car is completing 50 years after its launch in 2012, this time has been hailed as the most preferable time for the re-launch of this popular vehicle.

According to Mr. Laurens van der Acker, Design Chief at Renault, to celebrate the golden anniversary of the Alpine A110, the company is planning to do something spectacular, such as a showcase of a new concept version of the car. While the design and shape of the car are expected to be kept unchanged, there is expected to be a number of upgrades in terms of features and style, in the new version.

Porsche deal to discuss by VW board on Feb. 14

2012-01-30T03:11:00.001-08:00

FRANKFURT – The supervisory board of Volkswagen will discuss plans to acquire the remaining 50.1 percent of Porsche Automobile Holding SE's sports car business at a meeting on February 14.

Der Spiegel said the German Finance Ministry already has a draft for the deal available. Volkswagen will have to pay 3.9 billion euros ($5.1 billion) plus taxes for the remaining stake.

Instead of an anticipated 1 billion euros, Volkswagen will have to pay a "low three-digit million" amount in taxes, Der Spiegl said. In total the acquisition will cost Volkswagen a little over 8 billion euros.

Volkswagen acquired 49.9 percent of Porsche sports cars for 3.9 billion euros in December 2009 as part of a deal that prevented the likely insolvency of debt-laden parent Porsche SE.

Volkswagen was not immediately available for comment.

According to disclosures from Volkswagen, Porsche SE has a put option to sell its 50.1 percent exercisable from Nov. 15, whereas Volkswagen can exercise its call option between March and April of next year.

Last week Volkswagen said the company was closely examining other possible methods it is separated from the put-call options that would allow for an integration of Porsche within VW as soon as possible.

In van venture PSA seeks partner to replace Fiat

2012-01-30T03:07:00.001-08:00

PARIS - PSA/Peugeot-Citroen is looking for a new partner for light commercial vehicles to replace Fiat, which is withdrawing from the companies' existing venture.

PSA wants to share the cost of developing and manufacturing replacements for its Peugeot Expert and Citroen Jumpy vans built at a plant shared with Fiat, CEO Philippe Varin said.

"We are looking for solutions for our future utility vehicles," Varin said. "In our industry it is hard to develop them alone, so we need to find the right partner."

Fiat is pulling out of the Sevelnord venture in northern France which also builds the Fiat Scudo van when the current partnership agreement expires in 2017. Varin declined to comment on possible candidates to replace the Italian carmaker.

Varin was speaking on Friday during an event marking the production launch of Peugeot's new 208 subcompact car at PSA's Poissy plant near Paris, attended by French Industry Minister Eric Besson.

Besson said that he had asked PSA to hold meetings with unions and government representatives to address concerns over the future of Sevelnord and PSA's Aulnay plant near Paris, which builds the C3.

The automaker is considering cost-cutting measures after losing European market share last year and issuing a series of profit warnings amid slumping sales of the outgoing 207 and Citroen's equivalent C3.

To add 1,600 workers by Chrysler at Illinois factory

2012-01-30T03:03:00.001-08:00

DETROIT -- More than 1,600 workers will be added by Chrysler Group at its assembly plant in Belvidere, Ill., with the end of summer to boost output of the new Dodge Dart and two Jeep models.

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Chrysler-Fiat, will travel to Belvidere to make the announcement on Thursday, prior to a weekend address at the National Auto Dealers Association convention, according to people familiar with the matter.

At present Chrysler employs 2,500 production workers at the Illinois factory and a nearby stamping plant.

The Illinois plant, which produces the Jeep Compass and Patriot and will begin production of the Dart later this spring, will also convert to the automaker's controversial 3/2/120 production schedule.

Under the 3/2/120 schedule, production employees work four, 10-hour shifts per week with three days on and two days off as part of a six-day workweek. The schedule that is in rotation allows Chrysler to significantly reduce overtime costs by providing more hours of production at straight-time rates.

The hiring plans suggest Chrysler is confident about sales prospects for the Dodge Dart, a replacement for the Caliber hatchback. U.S. sales of the Compass climbed 200 percent last year to 47,709, and demand for the Patriot rose 42 percent to 54,647 units.

A year ago, the Illinois plant was building less than 500 vehicles a day.

The rotating 3/2/120 schedule was a main point of contention during national labor negotiations between Chrysler and the UAW last fall. The union said it disrupts workers' ability to adjust to one shift or another, unnecessarily increasing fatigue.

The automaker has implemented the 3/2/120 schedule at an engine plant in the Detroit suburb of Trenton. Workers there have complained that the rotating shifts add stress and fatigue that leads to reduced product quality.

Chrysler, which posted a 26 percent increase in U.S. sales last year, also plans to add shifts at assembly plants in Detroit and Toledo in 2013.

Later this year, it will reopen the once-shuttered Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit to build the next- generation SRT Viper.

It has been planned by Chrysler to boost production and worldwide sales to 2.4 million units in 2012, up from just over 2 million vehicles in 2011.

146,000 vehicles Kia Motors recalls in US over faulty driver airbags

2012-01-30T02:59:00.001-08:00

After a lull, the vehicle recall ghost has snared up its head again in the US. Now it has been reported that the South Korean car maker Kia Motors, an affiliate of Hyundai Motor Co is reported to be recalling 145,755 Optima sedans and Rondo crossover vehicles in the United States because of potentially faulty driver airbags.

As the reports mentioned that the model years affected are 2006-2008 Optimas and 2007-2008 Rondos, stated Kia Motors America. Kia Motors America, a unit of Kia Motors Corp, said it is unaware of any sort of injuries or airbags not deploying because of the issue. Affected are 95,569 Optimas and 50,186 Rondos.

It was mentioned that Kia stated that the clock spring contact assembly the air bag to the side of the driver supplemental restraint system may become damaged over time, potentially it cause the driver's air bag not to deploy. The recall is expected to begin in March, Kia said.

Renewal by Skoda UK the Official Vehicle Partner deal with Rallye Sunseeker

2012-01-30T02:55:00.001-08:00

The opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship will be the Rallye Sunseeker that will take place on the 24th and 25th of February. Rallye Sunseeker that takes place near the forests of Bournemouth and Poole was voted British Rally Championship (BRC) 2011 ‘Rally of the Year’. The slippery gravel roads have over 26 years of its existence has grown into one of the most loved rally stages in the BRC calendar.

In 2011, Skoda UK signed into a joint venture with Rallye Sunseeker as its Official Vehicle Partner. During the course of the Event rally officials will drive a fleet of four-wheel-drive Skoda Yetis. Skoda UK will also loan the Dorset Police’s Traffic Division a Skoda Superb 3.6 V6 Estate 4x4 in police livery. The car will be used before and during the event by Inspector Matt Butler (Dorset Police Rally Commander) and Neil Roden (Safety Manager, Rallye Sunseeker).

Rick Smith, Rallye Sunseeker Event Director: “The feedback from our senior officials last year about the Yeti was phenomenal; they loved the car, so much so that I know one has recently brought a Skoda. We are therefore very pleased to retain Skoda as the official car.”

This year the length of Rallye Sunseeker stage has been increased by 10%, with 11 gravel speed tests for FIA homologated R1, R2 and R3 cars as well as Group A and N.

A new breed of performance cars by BMW

2012-01-30T02:51:00.001-08:00

Every petrol head in the world knows about BMW’s M division. The M range of cars from BMW is built with the sole objective of offering a dominating driving experience that makes you forget everything in this world. Their high revving powerful engines, agile suspension setup, precision handling and everyday practicality make the BMW M range of cars some of the very best. For years the M division has been the worst nightmare of every other performance car maker around.

It is therefore quite a moment for the automotive world as BMW has announced for certain that they will be adding another wing to the BMW M GmbH division, the new division is called, BMW M Performance Automobiles. BMW M Performance Automobiles will be defined by a new in-line six cylinder diesel engine with three turbochargers. Another characteristic defining the M Performance Automobiles from BMW will be the German car maker’s all-wheel-drive system called the xDrive system. All BMW M Performance Automobiles will be all-wheel-drive instead of rear-wheel-drive as is the case with every car made by BMW M GmbH.

The new range of BMW M Performance Automobiles include the BMW X5 M50d, BMW X6 M50d, BMW M550d xDrive and the BMW M550d xDrive Touring. All these cars will be powered by the new triple turbo, six cylinders 3.0 litre diesel engine.

In typical BMW M tradition it is the harmony of the powertrain, chassis and design that will make the BMW M Performance Automobiles different from its competitors. BMW’s newest range of performance cars get an eight speed Sports automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, light weight alloy wheels, bespoke body design for optimum aerodynamics and the xDrive system tuned to suit the needs of every individual model.

2015 Audi Q6

2012-01-27T23:49:00.001-08:00

When BMW unveiled their X6 back in 2008, it immediately made jaws start to flap about what Audi’s response to the luxury SUV would be. Everyone got their answer when, in 2011, Walter de’ Silva, Design Boss at Audi’s parent Volkswagen Group, confirmed that the company had already started to work on the Q6 and that it would be out on the streets by 2015. This rendering is our interpretation of the future X6 competitor.

The Audi Q6 will be built on the platform used for the next generation Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, and will offer the same crossover-coupe aspect of its competitor. Under the hood, Audi will place a variation of gas and diesel engines, as well as a hybrid option (following the hybrid option of the Cayenne). The top version, rumored to be called the Q6 RS, will be powered by the company’s latest turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine.

On Europe, Asia losses Ford Q4 operating profit slips to $1.1B

2012-01-27T23:47:00.001-08:00

DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. said its pretax operating earnings in the fourth quarter fell 15 percent to $1.1 billion, in part due to widening losses in Europe, as the company posted its third straight annual net profit.

Quarterly automotive profits were hurt by higher commodity costs, rising compensation costs in North America -- including a one-time ratification bonus related to Ford's new contract with the UAW -- and unfavorable exchange rates. Floods in Thailand contributed to a loss in the Asia Pacific Africa region after a year-earlier profit.

Fourth-quarter net income surged to $13.6 billion from $190 million a year earlier and the highest for any fourth quarter ever, aided by a one-time accounting gain. Revenue for the October-December period rose 6 percent to $34.6 billion.

"Despite the continued uncertainty in the external environment, the strength of our North American and Ford Credit operations allows us to continue to invest for future growth,"CEO Alan Mulally said in a statement.

Full-year pretax operating profit rose 6 percent to $8.8 billion.

Full-year net income tripled to $20.2 billion, highest since 1998, bolstered by a non-cash special item of $12.4 billion.

That gain stemmed from eliminating a valuation allowance against deferred tax benefits. Ford no longer needs the reserve because it expects to be profitable in coming years and be able to use the tax benefits, according to a U.S. filing. The resource was created in 2006 as Ford began reporting losses that would total $30.1 billion through 2008.

Ford CFO Lewis Booth said: "The release of most of our valuation allowance is a really positive step and a strong indication of profits going forward."

Full-year revenues rose 13 percent to $136.3 billion.

2012 Le Mans car unveiled by Toyota

2012-01-27T23:43:00.001-08:00

Much anticipated re-entry in Le Mans Toyota is the first manufacturer to confirm its participation in the FIA World Endurance Racing Championship with a hybrid vehicle. The new team that is based out of Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) in Cologne, Germany will make its on track debut on May 5, 2011 in Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the second round of the World Endurance Racing Championship, with their THS-R (Toyota Hybrid System Racing) TS030 car. The company intends to use the same car in the 24 hours of Le Mans later in the year.

The THS-R powertrain of the TS030 features an all-new 3.4-litre V8 petrol engine and also a hybrid system with capacitor storage. Having tested the new TS030, the data from the test will help further developments on the car. The car was tested by Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Hiroaki Ishiura. “Just leaving the garage on the electric power is very futuristic; then when you let the clutch go and the internal combustion engine kicks in it is like an old friend has returned,” Alex said, after his first stint behind the wheel of the TS030.

“Our target this year is to show the performance level of our car and particularly the THS-R powertrain. Hybrid is a core technology of Toyota so it is important to demonstrate this in a motorsport arena and we want to prove it can bring a performance advantage, both in terms of lap time and fuel efficiency,” said Team President Yoshiaki Kinoshita.

The company will field two cars in 2012 and Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Kazuki Nakajima have been confirmed as the drivers for one car, while it’s yet to name the drivers for the second car.

Toyota made its FIA World Endurance Championship debut in 1983 and have participated in 13 24 hours of Le Mans events with 36 cars. The TS010 and TS020 were used in 1998 and 1999 respectively, the team’s last two years in the championship. TS stands for ToyotaSport.

The team had a good run in qualifying, with Martin Brundle on pole position in 1999, but they could not capitalise on it, just one car taking the chequered flag. Despite finishing in second place, the team withdrew from Le Mans with the intention to shift its focus to Formula 1.

Although Toyota hasn’t had a great record in terms of statistics in Le Mans, they have managed three podium finishes, and four front row starts, including a pole position. Making a comeback after 12 years, they are a team the competitors will keep tabs on.

Shelby Name dropped by SSC from Title

2012-01-27T23:41:00.001-08:00

SSC North America, better known as the parent company of models like the record breaking Ultimate Aero and the recently unveiled Tuatara, announced it will be dropping the Shelby name from its title, opting to only use the SSC nomenclature. Apparently, there was way too much confusion when it came to whether or not Jerod Shelby (SSC’s founder) was in any way related to automotive legend, Carroll Shelby.

Jerod Shelby, Founder and Lead Designer, said in an official press release: "After several months of successfully launching our new corporate name and solidifying further International brand awareness for SSC at the Dubai International Motor Show and Top Marques in Macau, it was the right time to officially announce our name change."

"We have always wanted to focus on the pride associated with being an American built supercar and the timing is right," Shelby stated. "We have previously launched the Tuatara in both Shanghai and Pebble Beach and these two events in Dubai and Macau ensure the appropriate branding we are hoping to achieve for our company worldwide."

We don’t necessarily see how only using SSC will stop the annoying "relation" question from being asked, especially since SSC stands for Shelby Super Cars
anyway, but with vehicles like the Aero and the Tuatara diving into the supercar market, Jerod Shelby will more than likely get his own following.

Over 5900 bookings received by Mahindra on XUV500 in 2 days

2012-01-27T23:36:00.001-08:00

Around 5900 plus booking applications received by Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. from customers within just 2 days of re-opening bookings for its XUV500. Bookings for the XUV500 had re-opened on 25th January across 19 cities as compared to the first phase of bookings that was available only across dealerships in 5 cities.

The second phase of bookings will be kept open for a period of 10 days from 25th January till 3rd February 2012. As a unique customer-centric measure, M&M has decided to undertake an XUV500 draw in this round of bookings in case the requests exceed 7200. This would support in ensuring a reasonable waiting period for the customers selected in a fair and transparent manner.

First production of Aston Martin V12 Zagato to debut at Kuwait Concours D'Elegance

2012-01-27T23:33:00.001-08:00

The first production of Aston Martin V12 Zagato will debut at the Kuwait Concours d’ Elegance on 15-18 February. The Kuwait Concours d’Elegance, in its third successive year, is the only event of its type in the Middle East and plays host to some of the world’s finest automotive art from over 19 countries.

The V12 Zagato, has been manufactured to a very limited numbers of up to 150 cars, is due for first customer deliveries in late 2012. With the partnership between Aston Martin and Zagato which began over 50 years ago with the DB4 GT Zagato, the V12 Zagato, is based on the V12 Vantage. The V12 Zagato boasts Aston Martin’s 6.0-litre V12 engine that produces 510bhp and 570 Nm of torque.

Sale of Kia 3-door

2012-01-27T23:32:00.001-08:00

The new Kia Rio is available to order now in three door guise for the first time. The same engines options, trim levels and external dimensions from the five door are carried over to Rio 3-door.

The Rio 3-door is available with a choice of four engines – two petrol and two diesels that are carried over unchanged from the five door version. The 1.1 CRDi that delivers 74bhp and 170Nm of torque at 1,500rpm, with EcoDynamics technologies, such as Intelligent Stop & Go, is considered to be a standard feature with all new Rio diesels, including the 1.4-litre models. The 1.4 CRDi is a four-cylinder diesel engine from the same U2 family as the 1.1. It develops 89bhp and 220Nm of torque.

Two petrol engines are also present in the new Rio. The entry-level unit is the 1.25-litre Kappa engine which made its debut in Kia’s smallest car, the new Picanto. Such engine develops 83bhp and 121Nm of torque. The new Rio is also available with Kia’s 1.4-litre Gamma engine, developing 107bhp and 137Nm of torque. It even gives buyers the convenience of an automatic gearbox as an option to the standard manual.

24 per cent growth in Q3 Swaraj Engines report

2012-01-27T23:30:00.001-08:00

A report from Swaraj Engines says that 24.27 per cent increase in net profit for the third quarter ended December 31, at Rs. 14.08 crore due to better sales. A net profit of Rs. 11.33 crore is posted by the company in the corresponding period last financial year.

It said that the total operating income during the third quarter also jumped by 26.98 percent to Rs. 117.58 crore from Rs. 92.60 crore in the year-ago period, Swaraj Engines said in a filing to the BSE. During the three-month period, engine supplies from the company went up by 16.10 percent to 14,273 units from 12,294 units in the same period in 2010-11.

It was mentioned that the company is at present expanding production capacity at its facility. "On expansion of annual capacity to 75,000 engines in two phases, the work is progressing well and it is expected that capacity of 60,000 engines per annum under the first phase would be available by the end of the current fiscal," the filing said.

Sale of Honda Hybrid Vehicle cross the 8, 00,000 mark

2012-01-27T23:28:00.001-08:00

An announcement came from Honda Motors that Honda's cumulative worldwide hybrid vehicle sales surpassed 8, 00,000 units as of the end of December 2011. After the start of sales of the first generation This milestone was reached 12 years and 2 months Honda Insight in Japan November 1999, which delivered fuel economy of 35km/l then the world’s highest fuel economy among all gasoline-powered vehicles.

To expand vehicle line-up and sales, Honda introduced a total of six new hybrid models in the last three years. As of today, Honda sells seven hybrid models in approximately fifty countries around the world. Honda’s annual worldwide hybrid sales for 2011 were approximately 200,000 units.

Under the global environmental slogan of “Blue Skies for Our Children”, The efforts from Honda will continue to realize the further market penetration of hybrid vehicles to realize a low carbon society.

Ghost clients of Rolls-Royce turn to bespoke in 2011

2012-01-27T23:26:00.001-08:00

Good looking cars are aplenty in the world, and luxurious ones are available at large, but what makes Rolls Royce so very different from any other lap of luxury on four wheeler is its unparalleled bespoke operations in Goodwood, that has over so many years of its existence perfected the art of automobile customization.

While, the British luxury car makers best-selling flagship saloon, the Phantom continues to attract more and more bespoke customers with every passing year, 2011 saw a notable rise in the company’s comparatively smaller and inexpensive Ghost model. Just to put things in perspective, in total, 56% of the Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase models sold around the world featured bespoke design in 2011.

Commenting on this positive trend with its Ghost model, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce CEO said, “It is always our goal to exceed our clients’ highest expectations and fulfill their innermost desires. With highly bespoke Phantom and Ghost models, we are able to achieve this. The passion with which our bespoke craftspeople create these beautiful cars is reflected in some truly outstanding examples delivered across the globe last year.”

Also important to note is that the proportion of Phantom family cars with bespoke content delivered to Rolls-Royce clients in the Middle East, Europe, North America and United Kingdom in 2011 rose significantly, giving the company good enough reason to double the number of bespoke experts working at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood by the end of the year.

Engg. Students developed two ultra low-cost cars and create sensation

2012-01-27T01:33:00.001-08:00

In every field experiments are possible and to prove that the youngsters are not behind in any way, two groups of engineering students have miraculously developed something extraordinary very recently. Two cars are developed one which is an ambivalent car only possible in imaginations, the other a highly fuel efficient break-through for the generations to remember. The two cars are just short of creating a sensation for the world to know and came into limelight, when the district Collector T. MunuSwamy went to appraise the situation and acknowledged the innovation in the engineering field.

An electric car that can travel like any other car on the road and suddently transforms into a boat to sail on water is only something we get to see in a sci-fi movie or serials from our childhood. But, this did happen in reality this time when a group of students - Rajendra Kumar, Nitesh Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, Abhishek Raj, Chandrakanth and Sanjay Kumar from the PRIST University in Thanjavur made a ground-breaking invention under the guidance from the researchers Balasundaram, Jayraj and Murali from an engineering firm located in a small town of Tarangambadi near Nagapattinam. The unique car is powered by an electric motor which imbibes the solar power while on the run and co-ordinate together to zoom through the roads at a top speed of 30 kmph and runs like a motor boat delivering a 15 kmph speed on water.Automobile News

A-Star facelift from Maruti launched with priced at Rs 3.66 lakh

2012-01-27T01:31:00.001-08:00

One of the biggest carmaker of India Maruti Suzuki has given a mid-life facelift to its small car A-Star. The Maruti A-Star which was launched a couple of years ago has seen some average sales figures unlike the other small cars from Maruti, but now Maruti has pumped in some fresh blood on it by giving it a makeover. The face-lifted A-Star or the 2012 A-Star as it would be better known has got most of the changes done in the interiors while the exteriors have been left untouched. The 2012 A-Star gets an all new upholstery with new front head restraints being added and also the A-Star now gets the much needed ABS and air bags as an option, apart from this the car now sports new alloy wheels. The single gold rear seats now get a 50-50 split fold which can be very well utilized for loading in more stuff in the boot. New color shades also come in, shades of Caffeine Brown and Glistening Grey add to the older color options.Automobile News

BMW X6 by 2013

2012-01-27T01:28:00.001-08:00

BMW brought out the X6 in the second half of 2008, and with a few years of experience in the market, the SUV is now ready for a minor facelift to keep it refreshingly attractive. And when we say minor, we really do mean minor, because you need to look very close to see the changes in this facelift.

The facelift starts off with redesigned fog lights, headlights, and taillamps with a new adaptive LED option, and moves on to newly designed bars, new paint finishes, light alloy wheels, and leather trim. And that’s pretty much it.

The US market will get its usual xDrive50i powered by a 4.4-liter 400 hp TwinPower Turbo V8 and the X6 xDrive35i with a 300 HP TwinPower Turbo inline-6. However, for the first time, the BMW X6 will be able to be ordered with an M-Performance package that adds a few ponies and a meaner look.

On the US market, the new BMW X6 will go on sale in the spring of 2012.Automobile News

Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV Twin Turbo by 2012

2012-01-27T01:26:00.001-08:00

A magnificent blast from the past gets a twin turbo setup and there’s no way we weren’t going to spread it around like wild fire. Robert Himler, creator of the titillating videos of his Underground Racing-tuned Lamborghini Gallardo, has moved on to a bigger and better project: the Lamborghini 670-4 SV Twin Turbo. The project is currently under development, but it is supposed to be ready by March 2012 and aims to be "the world’s fastest and best Lamborghini."

The biggest change for the special Murcielago will be its new RWD system, and not the AWD on the standard LP 670-4 SV. Himler opted to remove the front differentials, half-shafts, and torque tube - all of which allowed for a 125lbs reduction of the car’s weight. The secondary cats and muffler were also removed and the weight was then reduced by 89 lbs. The next part of the transformation was the addition of a pair of turbochargers resulting in an output of more than 1000 RWHP, blasting the standard 670 HP out of the water.

The Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV Twin Turbo’s step by step build is getting posted on its very own Facebook page, but we’ll keep updating the progress here as well!Automobile News

Piaggio to launch other brands in India after Vespa re-entry

2012-01-27T01:25:00.001-08:00

Largest two-wheeler maker from Piaggio Europe's, which will relaunch its iconic Vespa scooterin March, may drive in other brands such as Piaggio scooters and Moto Guzzi motorcycles to India in the long run.

"We are doing a comprehensive and exhaustive research in India as to what could be the product line for the next few years," Piaggio Vehicles India MD Ravi Chopra said.

"We will be clear about what should be the road map for Piaggio in India in the next few months," he said. The findings of the study are likely to be completed by March. Automobile News

Through platform sharing Mercedes-Benz to reduce costs

2012-01-27T00:53:00.001-08:00

To cut cost by over 1.5 billion Euros Mercedes-Benz aims in the coming years by sharing selected platforms and components across segments. The German luxury car manufacturer plans to reduce the number of platforms used by 2014-15, to achieve the target savings.

At present Mercedes has limited platform sharing, and many models of the company’s vast range have been developed at an enormous R&D cost. However, the company’s R&D now plans to focus on three basic architectures – one for rear wheel drive cars, one for compact front wheel drive cars and one for SUVs. Once developed, these platforms will underpin the new models across the segments, which will primarily help reduce costs.Automobile News

In 4 more vehicles Ford to offer EcoBoost engines

2012-01-27T00:50:00.001-08:00

Eco Boost engines are offered by Ford Motor Co. in 11 vehicles in 2012, up from seven in 2011, and triple the production capacity of Eco Boost-equipped vehicles.

Ford is betting big on its family of turbocharged EcoBoost engines to drive fuel economy gains without sacrificing performance.

The company built 127,883 vehicles with the engine in North America last year, Ford spokesman Richard Truett said.

If it triples that production, Ford would make more than 383,000 vehicles equipped with the engines in 2012.

The EcoBoost engine option has already become popular on some Ford models.Automobile News

The first Fit EV delivered by Honda

2012-01-27T00:48:00.001-08:00

A 2013 Fit EV battery-electric vehicle is delivered by Honda to the city of Torrance as one of the first major steps in the Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program. The delivery was marked by a ceremony at the Torrance City Hall, there to Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto a key to the Fit EV was presented by Steve Center, vice president Environmental Business Development, American Honda.

Over the past year, Honda

and the city of Torrance have worked together to gather input from the residents of Torrance about potential recharging station locations and jointly participated in numerous public awareness events with a Fit EV test vehicle. These initiatives will be continued by Honda and the city while also studying local government fleet usage of an electrified vehicle. Torrance city will also receive a Honda plug-in hybrid for additional testing at a later date.Automobile News

For Volkswagen Vento Leatherette seat covers Highline with a bit hike in price!

2012-01-27T00:45:00.001-08:00

One of the most famous and appreciated car brands in India is Volkswagen India is well-known for manufacturing cars, which are stylish, modern and technically sound. Now, the company will soon commence the selling of the brand new 2012 Volkswagen Vento sedan with a notable change in its Highline variant. The Volkswagen Vento Highline will come with ‘Leatherette’ seat covers that will not only improve the style level but will also enhance the comfort level too.

In fact the leatherette seats recognized as rexine or synthetic leather seats, which would replace the fabric seats on VW Vento Highline. The reason behind this seat change in Vento sedan is because the firm wishes to create a bit difference from its less expensive cousin, Skoda Rapid. Rumors suggest that Volkswagen India is also planning to give a bit of price rise in the 2012 Volkswagen Vento Sedan due to hiked input cost and the dipping rupee value. When enquired about the price hike, our reliable sources mentioned that the 2012 Volkswagen Vento will have price tag that would be rose by Rs. 20000 to Rs. 40000 only, just to create a difference between the Skoda Rapid and VW Vento.Automobile News

To set up a diesel engine plant by Maruti Suzuki India in Gurgaon

2012-01-27T00:44:00.001-08:00

Maruti Suzuki India has suddenly turned the tables where its diesel powerplant is concerned. The latest hot news doing the rounds is Maruti India has called the shots on its impending decision on new diesel plant. However, when it broke the news of the new diesel plant to be set up in Gurgaon, Maruti Suzuki India surprised many, in contrary to its earlier plans. The initial take would be to have 100,000 units of the diesel engines to be rolled out from the upcoming plant with an investment of Rs 1000 crore to meet the development costs.

What seems to be clear at the moment is that Maruti Suzuki India hopes to dedicate the upcoming plant in Gurgaon entirely for the diesel engines as it does have a separate plant developing the petrol engines for the Maruti cars. Maruti Suzuki India was delaying the decision for over a period of time for two main reasons. One, the next budget session is likely to turn around the scenario for the diesel cars with the Indian governemnt all set to slap an additional excise duty on the diesel cars as such.Number two is Maruti Suzuki has suffered huge losses in the past year and an additional time would only give the car manufacturter enough breathing space to get the situation well in control.Automobile News

Carmakers Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, Honda and others deploy more robots as job loss fears gain ground

2012-01-26T02:23:00.001-08:00

Three hundred robots whirr to life every morning all over Hyundai's Sriperumbudur plant near Chennai, rubbing shoulders with 1,500 employees and 7,000 contract workers. Together, man and machine churn out one car in less than a minute; over 600,000 cars roll out of the factory every year. The number of robots inhabiting the factory has increased more than 10-fold in a decade.

This alliance between man and machine is an uneasy one even as automotive companies from Chennai to Chakan, Gurgaon to Sanand, slowly deploy more robots. Honda Siel, in its journey from 30,000 cars a year to 120,000, has almost tripled automation levels - from 20% to 55%. Maruti Suzuki's Manesar plant is highly automated compared with its older Gurgaon facility. Ford India deployed 90 robots to meet high demand for its small car Figo. Automobile News

In RE60 Renault-Nissan yet to confirm their interest says Bajaj

2012-01-26T02:22:00.001-08:00

With much speculation over their partnership over a low cost car project both Bajaj and Renault-Nissan were tight-lipped about it. But now with Bajaj showcasing the RE60 at Auto Expo, the next move from both the players is highly anticipated.

It was said that the, Renault-Nissan officials have had a look at Bajaj's new “four-wheeler” RE 60, but have yet to confirm if they are interested in selling the vehicle, said Bajaj Auto's Managing Director, Rajiv Bajaj said. He said that, “They (Renault-Nissan) have seen the product, but they haven't got back to us yet.”Automobile News

Complete takeover of Porsche eyed by Volkswagen AG

2012-01-26T02:21:00.001-08:00

Volkswagen AG, one of the main European automobile major is reported to be looking hard at buying the 50.1 percent stake it doesn't own in German sports car maker Porsche. According to the reports, this move is after the company backed away from a planned merger with Porsche Automobil Holding SE on January 10th, stating that it is not possible because of continuing legal problems.

It was mentioned further that the company said a final decision that has not been made as it looks at alternatives. One of those options is with Porsche, a put option according to European law that would allow Volkswagen to acquire the remaining stock in Porsche.

It was mentioned that such an option would require Volkswagen to pay over $1 billion euro in taxes should it go forward. Volkswagen may try to seek a way to buy Porsche without having to pay the tax.Automobile News

Assemble of 2012 CR-V by Honda Motor at Ontario plant

2012-01-26T02:19:00.001-08:00

Honda Motor Co., the Japanese automobile maker has reportedly begun assembly of its new 2012 CR-V at its plant in Alliston, Ontario in Canada. Earlier, the vehicle was previously assembled at Honda's East Marysville, Ohio plant.

The reports quoted Jerry Chenkin, executive vice-president of Honda Canada as saying “The Honda CR-V has set the gold standard in the compact SUV segment and has been embraced by Canadians since it arrived here in 1997. We’re proud that the all-new 2012 CR-V will be Canadian-built.”

It was also reported that the CR-V is sold globally in more than 160 countries throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa.Automobile News

Top 15 automobile awards bagged by Audi India in 2011

2012-01-26T02:08:00.001-08:00

Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, has swept the various automotive awards in India and bagged 15 prestigious awards for the year 2011. By creating the highest sales volume for Audi in India to date, Audi A8L, Audi A6, Audi A7 and Audi RS5 have garnered top honours of the industry, underlining Audi’s brand essence “Vorsprung durch Technik”. Audi A8L has captured the hearts of the premium segment buyers, a fact reinforced by the car winning the Import Car of the Year by CNBC TV18 Overdrive Awards and NDTV Car & Bike Awards. Audi A8L also received the CB Luxury Sedan award at the ET Zigwheels Award and the Technologyand Innovation Award at Bloomberg UTV Autocar Awards, Premium Luxury Car of the Year by Car India and Bike India Awards and CNB –AAA Best Integrated Campaign of the Year by NDTV Car & Bike Awards.

The Audi A6 has won the hearts of motoring fraternity and customers alike. The car has won the Premium Car of the Year by CNBC TV18 Overdrive Awards, Luxury Car of the Year by Car India and Bike India Awards, the Premium Sedan of the Year by NDTV Car & Bike Awards and Auto Bild India Carwale Awards and the Luxury Saloon of theYear by Bloomberg UTV Autocar Awards. Customer recognition for Audi as the sportiest brand is reaffirmed with Audi RS5 being awarded Top Gear Magazine’s Car of the Year and NDTV‘s Car & Bike Awards 2012 Performance Car of the Year, Cabriolet of the Year by TopGear Magazine Awards goes to Audi R8 Spyder and the Audi A7 Sportback winning the Automotive Design of the Year, thus making Audi the most awarded luxury car manufacturer across diverse product categories.Automobile News

KTM to replace Bajaj 'Probiking' showrooms

2012-01-26T02:04:00.001-08:00

The second largest two-wheeler maker Bajaj Auto is trying to revamp its dealership business. According to a report in The Business Line, with the launch of KTM, an Austrian brand in India, Bajaj Auto is replacing its ‘Probiking' sports bike outlets.

It was said that the 34 new KTM stores will also retail the Kawasaki Ninja 250R and 650R which Bajaj distributes in the country, though the top-end Pulsar 220 and 200 bikes will now be sold through Bajaj's outlets. The Indian firm bought a stake in KTM five years ago, which now stands at around 40 per cent. “We will continue to distribute the Ninjas. When we first invested in Probiking in 2003, we knew that one day we would need exclusive distribution for the premium market,” Rajiv Bajaj, Bajaj Auto's Managing Director said. He added, “At that time, we had no idea what that brand would be. What Pulsar was 10 years back, KTM is today.”Automobile News

Hike taxes on diesel cars

2012-01-26T02:03:00.001-08:00

The clamour for making diesel cars dearer is getting louder just ahead of the Budget, with environment lobbyists and sections of the government advocating higher taxes to compensate for the subsidythe fuel enjoys.

While the petroleum ministry is believed to have advocated a raise in excise duty on diesel cars to compensate oil companies that have to keep diesel prices low, environment lobby Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has also pressed the government for a higher tax on diesel cars. Automobile News

Maruti Suzuki to roll out its new Swift Dzire on 1st February

2012-01-26T01:59:00.001-08:00

Countdown has started for the new Swift Dzire that will be launched in the Indian automobile market on 1st February 2012. Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) will introduce the smaller version of its most successful sedan Maruti Swift Dzire. This compact sedan has been designed on the platform of new Maruti Suzuki Swift. The new product by MSIL would compete against yet to be launched models Mahindra Verito CS and Tata Manza CS.

According to Mayank Pareek, Managing Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales), Maruti Suzuki India Limited, "We have invested a lot on the new Dzire. It is on a brand new platform. There are at least 150 new features compared to the existing Dzire and it is unlikely that the new one will be priced lesser." The existing Dzire model is available at a price tag ranging between Rs. 4.94 lacs and Rs. 7.29 lacs (ex-showroom Delhi).Automobile News

Pioneer India electronics introduces its 2012 line up for the in-car entertainment segment

2012-01-26T01:57:00.001-08:00

Pioneer India Electronics unveiled its new range of products for 2012 at J W Mariott. These new models of in-car audio receiver’s featuring Pioneer’s latest technologies were unveiled by actor and brand ambassador, Shahid Kapoor. The new models are designed to take consumer’s audio experience up a notch with a plethora of new and improved functions, delivering a revolutionary in-car audio experience. The new array of in-car audio receivers features significant improvement from their predecessors, by offering a diverse range of functions to suit the unique needs of consumers.

Models such as AVH-P8490BT, DEH-6450BT and DEH-5490SD feature the new MIXTRAX technology, a proprietary technology which creates a nonstop mix of an entire music library with DJ effects, to create a club-like atmosphere in ones car. With AVH-P8490BT, Pioneer introduced the Advanced App Mode for the first time in India. Advanced App Mode lets one fully control the applications from their compatible iPhone through the head-unit touch-screen. Applications such as MIXTRAX and a plethora of recommended applications including Navigation & HD Radio streaming can be operated using Advanced App Mode. The new in-car audio receivers also featuresAdvanced Sound Retriever technology which restores the high frequency sounds lost in the digital compression process ensuring enhanced sound quality. Apart from sound quality and convenience in usage, Pioneer stressed its commitment to create reliable products by introducing an Anti-Dust Design in all newly launched head-units with CD-mechanism.Automobile News

Premier plans 200 authorized service stations for ‘RiO’ by June, 2012

2012-01-26T01:55:00.001-08:00

Having received a tremendous customer response for the ‘Rio’ at the 11th Auto Expo2012,including new dealership applications, Premier Ltd. is ramping up its after sale service network all over India by setting up ‘Premier Authorized Service Stations’, branded as ‘PASS’. The Company plans to have 200 such service centres for thePremier Rio nationwide by June 2012. A dedicated team has been formed to implement this initiative in a time bound manner thereby expanding the service network for Rio customers.

The company is also adding another 30 dealers to its existing network of 50 dealers, taking its overall network to 80 dealerships by June 2012. Premier is targeting 100 dealerships and 300 service stations by December 2012, for easy service and repair in all major markets. Premier will offer Premier Rio spare parts at very reasonable prices. According to Rakesh Mehta,VP (Automotive), “We look at spare parts purely as customer service and not as a profit centre. Consequently, our spare parts cost much less than comparable vehicles.Automobile News

Consumers are asked by Chrysler to name new edition Jeep Grand Cherokee

2012-01-26T01:48:00.001-08:00

At the Houston and Washington, D.C., auto shows Chrysler Group today unveiled a new, unnamed edition of its flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV and asked viewers to come up with its name.

The all-black concept will be named by consumers through an online Jeep "Name My Ride" contest. In May the winning name will be announced. If the contest winner qualifies, he or she will win a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the automaker said.

The concept SUV features a platinum-chrome front-end and black-gloss 20-inch wheels and exterior treatments.

"Our new Grand Cherokee concept provides a completely new look -- one that is edgy and aggressive, and certainly different than any Grand Cherokee on the road today," Mike Manley, CEO of the Jeep Brand, said in a statement.Automobile News

Without Camry's crown Ford expects Fusion to grab profits

2012-01-26T01:47:00.001-08:00

Recommendation came from Ford Motor Co. CEO Alan Mulally that his stylish new Fusion sedan is seeking sales supremacy over Toyota Motor Corp.'s Camry.That is not exactly what the boss wants, executives said.

Ford cannot make enough Fusions to outsell the Camry, the top car in the U.S. for the past decade, as per the researcher IHS Automotive. Instead, with Fusion, Mulally is aiming for a balance between commanding top dollar for each car and selling a lot more of them.

"Between price and volume, we'll sort out the right mix," Jim Farley, Ford's global marketing chief, said. "I don't think we're very enamored with being No. 1 just to be No. 1. We're much more enamored with getting the right price point and the right kind of people to buy the car."Automobile News

Mini Rocketman production called off by BMW

2012-01-25T02:28:00.001-08:00

At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show BMW displayed the shortest ever Mini made. BMW has never failed to leave its rivals dumbfounded and the same happened with the Mini Rocketman concept too, though unfortunately the concept wouldn't be within the nearest vicinity of production. Built as a four seater despite the three door body style it carries, Mini Rocketman concept is just too good to be true and probably BMW has felt the same. In the struggle to come up with the safest and the most compact car, BMW has stretched its limits a little too much leading to extremely high development costs.

And this has finally made the German car manufacturer to call off the production completely as practically the car wouldn't be one of the best fits in tandem with the high price the car would have carried. What was thought to be utterly impossible had happened with the Mini Rocketman concept which is just 3 mm in length shorter than the shortest of the Mini cars, the BMW Mini Cooper by 300 mm.

It is amazing to see BMW even develop such a concept simulataneously meeting all the safety standards in Europe passing the crash tests in flying colors ensuring the saftey of the passengers while also determined to make the passengers drive worthwhile in the ultra compact car. Borrowing the deisgn lines of the Mini Rocketman concept for the future models is all BMW can do for now.

Training center opened by Chrysler that uses Fiat's methods

2012-01-25T02:25:00.001-08:00

DETROIT – Today Chrysler Group dedicated a 25,000-square-foot training center in suburban Detroit with the aim of using Fiat S.p.A.’s manufacturing method to improve quality in North American plants.

The World Class Manufacturing Academy was built for an undisclosed sum in the Technology Training Center run jointly by the automaker and the UAW.

Chrysler adopted Fiat’s award-winning manufacturing system shortly after exiting bankruptcy in 2009. Based on the principle of eliminating waste of any kind, the system relies on the input of line workers to suggest ways to improve their jobs and their plants. To date, Chrysler workers have made over 200,000 suggestions, most of which were implemented, Chrysler officials said.

The system relies on regular audits that boil down a plant’s efficiency to a two digit score. The audits include not just plant output, but also worker and plant safety, product quality, plant waste, and job interactions.

A score of 50 or above is recognized as bronze, 60 is silver, and 70 is gold, and 85 is world class.

“The only way for us to get better is to build skills, and this is the place to build skills,” said Scott Garberding, Chrysler’s head of manufacturing.

The automaker’s manufacturing and assembly plants are in a race of sorts to reach bronze status this year. According to plant level officials, Chrysler Group’s plants in Windsor, Ont., Toledo, Ohio, Dundee, Mich., and Belvidere, Ill., are all close to reaching bronze level. If they do so this year, they will have accomplished the feat in just over half the time it took their counterparts in Europe.

In their initial audits in 2009, some of those plants had single-digit W.C.M. scores.

UAW members have embraced Fiat’s system because they realize that better quality and greater efficiency is the best job security, said General Holiefield, head of the UAW’s Chrysler department.

“It’s a culture in each facility,” Holiefield said, talking about how clean and efficient Fiat’s European factories were. “It’s very magical.”

Jaguar XF SE Business & Sport Edition by 2012

2012-01-25T02:21:00.001-08:00

After revealing the XJ Sport and Speed at the end of 2011, Jaguar has added two more special editions to their lineup, this time for the XF. The SE Business and Sport Editions can now be ordered on the British market, with prices starting at £31,500 ($49,000 at the current exchange rates) and £34,950 ($54,400 at the current rates) respectively.

The Jaguar XF SE Business version is based on the recently launched 163 HP 2.2 Diesel XF and adds a satellite navigation system complete with a seven inch touchscreen and HDD mapping. Next to these features, the model will be offered with intelligent start stop, a 400W sound system with DAB digital radio, leather and suedecloth seats, and bi-Xenon headlights.

The Jaguar XF SE Sport edition is based on the 190 HP 2.2 Diesel model and is distinguished by a full aerodynamic pack that includes a revised front bumper, a black grille element, side sill extensions, a subtle rear boot lid spoiler, and a black rear valance. The interior gets half leather suedecloth seats, a bond grain trim, and dove contrast stitch. The center console was dressed up with Piano black trim with ’Sport’ decals and the pedals in stainless steel. Practical additions include a heated front windscreen and front seats, a front parking aid plus a reversing camera, and 60/40 folding rear seats.

Own diesel plant by 2013 second half by Maruti Suzuki

2012-01-25T02:17:00.001-08:00

Maruti Suzuki the country’s largest auto maker expected to have India’s first own diesel engine plant. The plant will be ready by the second half of next fiscal with an initial annual capacity of 1.5 lakh engines. According to a report that this will help it meet the sudden increased demand for diesel cars which has arisen because of the cheaper price of diesel versus petrol.

The report quoted that the new engine plant is expected to come up at its Gurgaon facility, Chairman R. C. Bhargava as saying “We are being flexible on the capacity of the plant. We want it to be built on modular lines, so production can be expanded rapidly when needed.” In a meeting on Monday, the company's Board reached an agreement on the need for such a facility and has sought a “detailed project report” by the next Board meeting. A “final go-ahead” will be given after reviewing the Government's policy on diesel cars in the upcoming Budget. The report quoted an official as saying “The Board is in agreement that a new diesel plant is necessary for the company to meet the demand for such cars. However, a few details need to be worked on, such as land availability, investment and the size of the plant.’’

The report mentioned that a new diesel engine plant is expected to entail an investment of about Rs 1,000 crore for a capacity of one lakh engines, company officials had said recently. The proposed plant would be the first diesel plant under the Maruti Suzuki banner. At present, Maruti itself has a plant for only petrol engines, while the diesel engines are supplied by allied company, Suzuki Powertrain India. Suzuki Powertrain has a capacity of 2.9 lakh engines a year, which is now proving inadequate due to the high demand for diesel models (85 per cent of sales where available). At present, the waiting period for the diesel Swift and Dzire models stretches up to four-five months. It can be recalled that as an interim arrangement, Maruti has also tied up with Fiat India for diesel engine supply. Fiat, whose 1.3-litre diesel engine Suzuki Powertrain itself makes under licence, is supplying an additional one lakh engines a year to Maruti for a three-year period.

Apollo Fleet of the Year award the VRL Logistics

2012-01-25T02:15:00.001-08:00

In an award ceremony, held late last evening, Satish Sharma, Chief, India Operations, Apollo Tyres Ltd, gave away the trophy for Apollo Fleet of the Year to VRL Logistics in Large Operator and Sangha Freight Carrier in Medium Operator category. In case of the 1st edition of Apollo Fleet of the Year awards, the organisation received an overwhelming response from over 5,140 valid entries from fleet operators across India.

Apollo Fleet of the Year awards gives importance to initiatives taken by fleet operators towards Safety, Technology, Sustainability and Customer Service, unlike other awards in the genre, which place size and scale of operations above institutional leadership factors.

VRL Logistics based out of Hubli, Karnataka in the southern part of the country, with a fleet size of 3000+ vehicles, has a record 98 percent customer complaint resolution. It has conducted around 550 safety trainings resulting in lower accidents per truck. These proved to be the critical deciding factors for the judges and validating agency in awarding VRL as India’s Fleet of the Year. What also went in VRL’s favour was the level of radialisation, a high 60 percent, in comparison to 20 percent in commercial vehicles in India.

Speaking on the occasion Satish Sharma, Chief, India Operations, Apollo Tyres Ltd said, “These awards are Apollo’s recognition of the best practices that exist within the Indian commercial transportation segment. It is a much more progressive and modern sector of the economy than it gets recognition for. We have found that a vast majority of the operators conduct safety trainings for their drivers, fitters, mechanics and employees, resulting in lesser road accidents. The other surprising area was the high value put on GPS usage, technology deployment and fuel saving. I think we are literally witnessing a silent revolution in this segment, and fleet operators -- large or small -- should be lauded for it.”

Leadership in Safety has been evaluated on the basis of the number of safety training programmes conducted, along with the rate of accident per vehicle and the insurance claimed. M M Roadways from Chennai, Tamil Nadu won the Leadership in Safety award in the large fleet operator category for having conducted more than 200 safety trainings, as a result of which there was only 0.10 accident/truck. Similarly, Sri Balaji Transport from Chennai won the award in the medium category for having a 0.04 accident/truck in the past 12 months.

Leadership in Technology and Sustainability takes into account the level of radialisation and the fleet age -- both translate into lower spends on fuel and maintenance; along with investments in technology deployment in vehicle tracking to improve on customer service, cost and safety parameters. All of these elements are critical in the long-term success of operators, in an increasingly technological world. ABT Ltd from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu with 100 percent of its fleet connected with GPS received the honour in the large category of fleets, while Madanshree Bulk Carrier, from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, with 80 percent radialisation and 43 percent of its vehicles connected with GPS, received it in the medium fleet category.

In reference to Leadership in Customer Service, the number of customer complaints resolved was tracked along with growth in the customer base, the number of offices and non-vehicular staff, all of which help an operator provide better service to customers. DARCL Logistics based out of Gurgaon, Haryana with a 100 percent complaint resolution record won the Leadership in Customer Service award in the large operator category, and New Raipur Roadways, Bilaspur, with large and growing customer base and having resolved 78 percent of the customer complaints successfully, won in the medium category.

Evaluation by Leadership in Operations was evaluated on the basis of growth in fleet size in the last year and the compounded revenue growth in last 2 years. So, VRL Logistics, in the large fleet operator category, R R Logistics, Indore, in the medium and SRS travels in the passenger carrier category won, based on the growth in their fleet size in last 2 years. The 3 witnessed growth ranging from 12 to 28 percent between 2010 and 11.

Satish Sharma, Chief, India Operations, Apollo Tyres Ltd further added, “Seventy per cent of the goods transported in India are by road, making it the lifeline of the economy where millions of people and businesses rely on these fleets, and the quality of the nominations and the enthusiasm shown by the nominees show that the sector is truly in good hands. We are in the process of collating and creating small, and easy to understand, case studies of some of the best fleet operators. We intend to share these with the industry at large to enable others to follow some of the best practices already in place.”

An independent jury consisting eminent personalities from the commercial vehicle industry with a cumulative experience of nearly 100 years -- across planning, operations and customer service -- screened and judged the winners based on the quantitative and qualitative evaluation done by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India Pvt Ltd.

The 2012 Qatar Motor Show kicks off the second Middle East Automotive Summit

2012-01-25T02:13:00.001-08:00

Some of the foremost industry voices at global offered insight into the future of cars and

transportation as they discussed the pressing issues of increasing worldwide road congestion and populations at the 2nd Middle East Automotive Summit at Katara, Doha. Held under the title ‘The New Age of Mobility’, highly-anticipated one-day summit kicked off the 2012 Qatar Motor Show,and offered a discourse for industry leaders to gauge the direction of the automotive industry as well as its impact on energy resources and environment.

To start with, Ahmed Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Qatar Tourism Authority, the organizer, said: “We aim for the Qatar Motor Show to be a source of inspiration for manufacturers of cars and to provide a rare and unique experience to automotive lovers. The 2nd Middle East Automotive Summit not only represents the latest developments in the field, but also reflects the direction of the industry in general.” Other opening ceremony speakers - from Qatar Shell, Scuderia Ferrari, Volkswagen, Qatar Automotive Gateway (Qatar Ag) and Qatar Holding - reiterated their support to Qatar serving as a driving force in the global automotive industry as the country surges ahead in its vision to become a knowledge-based economy.

Ghanim Bin Saad Al-Saad, Chairman of Qatar Ag, said: “Qatar Ag is an attempt at diversification in Qatar, supporting the country in its drive to become a knowledge-based economy as well as create job opportunities for Qatar’s future generations. This initiative will help us put Qatar on the map prominently.” In the subsequent panel session automotive industry representatives presented a variety of views in offering a holistic picture.

Harald Hamprecht, Editor-in-Chief of Automotive News Europe, and who also moderated the panel session began by bringing the often complex question of changing demographics and their effect on sustainability under the spotlight, and separated out a number of key emerging challenges. “The global population is getting larger, older, and more urban. It is estimated that by 2050, it will be 9.2 billion. Today, we have 700 million cars and by 2015 we are expected to have three billion vehicles,” said Hamprecht. However, the lack of specialists and scarcity of raw materials will hamper the growth trends, he warned. Another challenge, noted Luigi Piero Ippolito, Product Strategic Scenario & Innovation, Magneti Marelli, was the continuous neglect of the actual stakeholder in the equation: humans. “It’s easy to imagine, even considering a big growth of the current technology level, that human behaviors will be part of the solution,” noted Ippolito.

V.G. Ramakrishnan, Senior Director of Automotive and Transportation for the region, Frost & Sullivan, then shared his vision of the future where commuting is multi-modal and rests on integration. “The developing markets are likely to be at the forefront… and they are integrating public transportation; rail network, electric cycles, bicycles, two wheelers and more. For a consumer, convenience, fuel economy and environment will remain the ultimate choices,” said Ramakrishnan. Back to cars and Roberto Vavassori, Vice President SGL/Brembo & director Business Development Brembo, highlighted how technology transfer from aviation and aerospace to open-road vehicles has been a beneficial one. “The transfer of technology has enabled a better lifetime of brake discs, shortened the production process and improved overall performance,” said Vavassori, brakes from whose company can be found in 17 out of 20 best braking cars. Harald Ludanek, Head of Vehicle Engineering and Prototyping in Technical Development Area, Volkswagen AG, and Mr. Ahmed M. Sorour, CEO, Qatar Ag, completed the discussion and emphasized how material development, storage of energy, lightweight construction, and cars that are networked together will be the ones leading the road in the future.

Exclusive 2012 SsangYong Rexton being tested on Nashik-Saputara highway caught in Cartrade.com

2012-01-25T02:07:00.001-08:00

Already Auto Expo 2012 has reassured Mahindra’s SsangYong plans for India with the impressive Ssangyong line-up in their massive pavilion. However the best thing happened post the Auto Expo 2012. Recently on a laid back Sunday 22nd Jan 2012, I decided to go on the Nasik Saputara highway to experience the scenic and beautiful roads in my Tata Nano, when to my irritation a massive looking SUV was trying to bully me and eventually overtook me and it was the SsangYong Rexton.

So clicking the SsanYong Rexton was the immediate step. The driver was trying really hard to zoom past all but to his bad luck and my good deeds, there was dense traffic. We followed the Rexton for a good patch of 20kms, by this time the driver had lost his cool as he was frantically followed by a pint sized Nano and were helpless in stopping us from taking pictures of the vehicle.

Fluidic design of New Hyundai i20 spotted winter testing!

2012-01-25T02:05:00.001-08:00

Fluidic design language of the new generation of the South Korean auto giant Hyundai, which has been appreciated by the car enthusiasts all over the world, will soon see the addition of a new Hyundai portfolio car in the fluidic league. The all new Hyundai i20 Fluidic was recently spotted when the car was under winter testing, which indicates towards its early launch. The car was fully covered in the camouflaging, so changes made by the Hyundai designers were not visible. The car is expected to hit the global market by the early next year.

It is said that the company has already launched two of its India portfolio models in the Fluidic design including the much in demand mid-size sedan Hyundai Verna and small car Hyundai EON. The all new Hyundai Verna model has been receiving an overwhelming response from the buyers of this segment in the Indian auto market. The diesel version of the car has been enjoying a waiting period of up to 6 months.

Moreover, the company has recently unveiled its premium sedan Sonata in new generation Fluidic version at the Delhi Auto Expo, which was overwhelmingly received by the present car enthusiasts and visitors.

In India, the Hyundai i20 Fluidic is expected to mark its debut by the end of year 2013, however, the company is yet to reveal any detail of this car in the country. The launch of Hyundai i20 Fluidic will further strengthen the hatchback’s position in its segment.

Launch of KTM's Duke 200 bike by Bajaj Auto

2012-01-25T02:03:00.001-08:00

NEW DELHI: Bajaj Auto will convert its niche pro-biking stores across India into exclusive KTM stores to sell the newly launched sports bike, Duke 200 that comes at an invitation price of 1.17 lakh (ex-showroom) Delhi.

Second largest two wheeler maker of the country holds a 40% stake in KTM Power Sports AG, Europe largest sports bike maker, and will distribute the high-end European bikes from existing 34 pro-biking showroom that would be done up with orange KTM livery and six new ones will added in 2012.

Besides, there would be 40 service centers dedicated for KTM bikes. Bajaj would assemble the new bike at its Chakan plant and market it across the country through KTM stores. The bikes can be booked across these outlets and deliveries would start from early February.

"We plan to establish KTM as a sporty motorcycle brand that would offer niche European features to Indian users. Between the Bajaj Pulsar and the KTM Duke, we intend to further strengthen our dominant position in the sports motorcycle segment in India," Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj said.

Following the multi-brand concept, Bajaj would continue to sell Kawasaki Ninja bikes through these KTM branded stores, but would shift its high-end bikes like the Pulsar 200 and Avenger cruiser range to regular Bajaj Auto dealerships that sells its other volume bikes.

Upgraded TVS Star City model to launch by TVS Motor launches

2012-01-25T02:02:00.001-08:00

CHENNAI: TVS Motor Company Ltd, which manufactures two- and three-wheelers on Tuesday, announced the launch of an upgraded version of its 110cc motorcycle TVS Star City.

According to the company the model will now be available with executive bike segment features like dual tone body colours, and an all-new stylish headlamp.

The availability of the bike would be in six new colour combinations.

"This new motorcycle is a winning combination of executive class features and vibrant styling. The backing of high fuel efficiency and toughness will make TVS Star City a much sought after motorcycle," H.S. Goindi, president - marketing, was quoted in the company statement as saying.

According to TVS Motor, under standard test conditions the model gives a mileage of 83.9 km per litre.

The base version TVS Star City 110cc starts at Rs. 38,650/- (ex Delhi) with a five-year warranty.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid by 2012

2012-01-24T00:04:00.001-08:00

There will be another addition in the hybrid line of Toyota and, no surprise here, it’s based on the company’s best sold model on the European market: the Yaris. The new Yaris Hybrid is set to make its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March with sales in Europe beginning shortly thereafter.

The new Yaris Hybrid will be powered by the first downsizing of Toyota’s HSD powertrain that combines a new 1.5 liter petrol engine with a lighter, more compact electric motor, transaxle, inverter, and battery pack. This new system is about 20% lighter than that of the engine found in the Auris Hybrid and will deliver a total of 100 HP. It will be mated to a standard automatic transmission.Automobile News

Soon Bangalore roads will hit by Volvo Hybrid Bus

2012-01-24T00:03:00.001-08:00

BANGALORE: The Volvo hybrid bus, unveiled at the Delhi Auto Expo earlier this month, would be launched on Bangalore roads soon, Karnataka Transport Minister R Ashoka said.

The 105-seater single bus would have a two-month trial run in the city, expected to be from this month itself, he told reporters here.

As per a preliminary report, it cuts diesel fuel costs by 30 per cent, while emissions are significantly less, Ashoka said.Automobile News

For Tata Nano 'World's cheapest car' tag backfires

2012-01-24T00:01:00.001-08:00

NEW DELHI: With launching of Nanoin 2009 by Tata Motors, the concept of the “world's cheapest car" in one of the world's fastest growing auto markets seemed pre-destined for commercial success.

Logically, the strategy appeared faultless -- offering an affordable solution to millions of aspirational lower-middle class Indian families wanting to make the social and practical leap from two wheels to four.

But after several years of disappointing sales, it has now become clear that the snubnosed hatchback's unique selling point -- it's price -- was actually a commercial sticking point.Automobile News

Glittering start of 4th edition of the Parx Super Car Show in Mumbai

2012-01-24T00:00:00.001-08:00

See the full gallery on Posterous

The Super Car Club (SCC) in association with Autocar India organized the Parx Super Car Show 2012, took off to a roaring start with excited Mumbaikars vying for a glimpse of the 100-odd super cars displayed at Riding School, Mahalakshmi Race Course on January 22, 2012. The auto beauties then paraded the city’s arterial streets, covering Bandra Worli Sea Link and the Western Express Highway until Kalina before returning to the venue, amidst a round of applause from visitors at the show.

Gautam Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director of Raymond Ltd. and Founding Chairman of the SCC led the entourage of supercars, and handed over trophies to the most desirable cars at the end of the show. The Jaguar XVRJ, Aston V8 and the Bentley Super Sports were awarded as the most desirable cars.Automobile News

ET Zig Wheels 'Sport Sedan of the Year' award won by Aston Martin

2012-01-23T23:59:00.001-08:00

The ET Zig Wheels Awards 2011 with much expectation has been announced and Aston Martin Rapide, the exquisite four door sports in its class as the Sport sedan of the year (CBU). It was reported that for an international auto major just starting to find its feet in the country, this accomplishment is noteworthy considering it is just been a few months since Lalit Choudary, Managing Director of Performance launched the showroom and introduced the coveted Aston Martin brand in India. Lalit Choudary on the set up of the Performance Cars showroom in Kemps corner was confident of their partnership. He added “Partnering Aston Martin offers us a unique opportunity to bring one of the world's iconic brands to one of the most discerning and fast growing markets.”

The range of models, the comfortable ride quality the car offers on Indian roads and the exclusivity of Aston Martin has been identified worldwide. In speaking about the award accolade, Lalit Choudary said "It is fantastic to receive the industry’s top awards despite having only just entered the Indian market.The awards stand testimony to Aston Martin’s ability to create cars that set the benchmark in their category."Automobile News

New Continental GTC showcased by Bentley at Qatar motor show

2012-01-23T23:57:00.001-08:00

Bentley Motors; the British premium auto maker has unveiled the new Continental GTC for the first time in Qatar at the Qatar International Motor Show, Doha. The brand new Bentley GTC Convertible features an even more spacious and sumptuous hand-crafted cabin, with soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets, all produced by Bentley’s talented craftsmen and women. Now with a more powerful 575PS 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine as well as a new Quick Shift transmission, enabling faster gear changes than ever before.

Commenting over the show Alasdair Stewart, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing, Bentley Motors, said “We are delighted to be here in Qatar with the new GTC. It has always been the most emotional model in the Continental range and a showcase for Bentley design. With its tailored soft top, the GTC is a pure British convertible true to those classic Bentleys of the past. However, the technology, performance and overall design excellence invested in this model means that we are now writing a new chapter for the Bentley convertible driver.”Automobile News

64 percent fall in third quarter profits report by Maruti Suzuki

2012-01-23T23:56:00.001-08:00

Maruti Suzuki India (MSI), the country's biggest carmaker has reported a bigger-than-expected 63.6 percent fall in quarterly net profit as high interest rates and rising fuel costs hit demand for cars in Asia's third-largest economy.

Reports says that the company's net profit fell to Rs 205.6 crore for the quarter from Rs 565.17 crore for the corresponding period last financial year, MSI stated. Net sales declined by 17.4 percent to Rs 7,663.6 crore during the quarter under review from Rs 9,276.73 crore in the year-ago period, it added.Automobile News

On New Bike launches Bajaj Auto is betting big including Duke 200 and new Pulsar Range

2012-01-23T23:55:00.001-08:00

Bajaj Auto, the second largest two-wheeler maker in the country, is slowly pushing the envelope in its bid to challenge the throne of Hero MotoCorp, the largest two-wheeler maker. The company which did not show much of its new vehicles or any launch at the Auto Expo has new launches this month to keep its growth momentum ticking through 2012-13.

According to a report, January 24, will see the first KTM offering, the 200 Duke, showcased in New Delhi. Bajaj Auto has a 39 per cent stake in the Austrian motorcycle company and will produce the bike at its Chakan plant near Pune. The report quoted managing director Rajiv Bajaj as saying “We expect this initiative to bring enormous energy into our system. Customers who visit our showrooms will hopefully be impressed with what they see and overall sentiment will be lifted in the process.”Automobile News

To mark the debut of seventh generation Volkswagen Golf at Paris Auto Show

2012-01-23T23:54:00.001-08:00

To mark its debut at the upcoming Paris Auto Show the new generation model of the popular Volkswagen Golf is speculated. This will be the seventh generation model of the Volkswagen Golf, and is expected to carry a number of changes and upgrades. The company, however, has not revealed the details of this model, so that it can be kept in wrap and further increase the excitement and eagerness among the car enthusiasts.

Based on the company’s MQB modular platform, which stands for modular transverse matrix, the all new Volkswagen Golf model will be carrying a number of advanced technological features. It is to be mentioned here that Volkswagen AG group, which has brands like Skoda and SEAT under its banner, will produce a number of vehicles on this platform in the coming years.Automobile News

252bhp A1 Quattro unleashed by Audi

2012-01-23T23:52:00.001-08:00

This is faster than a JCW Mini. It's faster than the Corsa VXR Nürburgring. It's also faster than a Ford Focus ST and nudges the VW Golf R for pace. This is the turbocharged, four-wheel-drive Audi A1 Quattro.

Like a mini Walter Rohrl-shaped gift to the world, Audi has announced plans to produce 333 left-hand-drive models of this, the fastest production A1 ever built.

It's destined for mainland Europe for now, but Audi tells us positive customer reaction to this bonkers little thing could see it reach our potholed shores. And that's an intriguing prospect, because it packs 252bhp from a turbocharged, 2.0-litre TFSI unit and 350Nm of torque from between 2,500rpm and 4,500rpm. All the Audi's horses and torques help propel it from 0-100kph in just 5.7 seconds, and on to a top speed of 245kph. That's really quick.Automobile News

Audi R8 Stretch Limo is World's First Sports Car Limo

2012-01-22T23:35:00.001-08:00

Generally, sports cars and limousines don’t ever fall into the same category because, well, they are completely different from one another. Of course, there’s always some guy who thinks that mixing oil and water is going to get him a different result. One example of this is the Ferrari limousine that popped up around Christmas time and the second is this elongated version of the exquisite Audi R8.

This Audi R8 stretch limo was designed by Limo Broker UK and has been described as the perfect car "for your birthday bash, wedding, hen or stag party." It is based on the 528 HP Audi R8 V10 model, making it just about the fastest Audi R8 limo in the world. And while the standard R8 can only accommodate two passengers, this limo has been modified to carry eight passengers.

Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on your opinion, this is just a concept, but the company hopes to produce one of these babies in the future. We’d rather have the real thing, even if only two of us can fit in it.Automobile News

BMW MINI, rated as one of the best cars ever made

2012-01-22T23:33:00.001-08:00

BMW launched its marque brand MINI Cooper in India - its 100th market - at the Auto Expo in Delhi. Priced at upwards of Rs 24 lakh for its various models, the MINI has been rated as one of the best cars ever made. Celebrities love it. Film directors love its style quotient. But note, MINIs had to be recalled this week across markets. ET on Sunday writes a mini history of the MINI.Automobile News

Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors make efforts to tap customers on Facebook, Twitter

2012-01-22T23:29:00.001-08:00

As use of social media spreads like wild fire, automobile companies are cashing in on the opportunity to tap younger customers and are more than doubling their spending to market products through sites like Facebook and Twitter.

Maruti Suzuki India, Hyundai Motor India Ltd and Tata Motors, the top three volumes player in the Indian automobile market, are leaving no stones unturned to tap the potential of social media which they consider very important for future.

"Earlier, source of information for buying a car used to be friends and family but now increasingly more people are doing it themselves through the social media. Moreover, it is inexpensive and you can get a lot of feedback from customers through it," Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) Chief General Manager (Marketing) Shashank Srivastava told PTI.

To Beat Toyota Innova , Hexa Space MPV brings by Hyundai

2012-01-22T23:28:00.001-08:00

Growing demand for the MPVs in the Indian car market made the Korean car manufacturer propose the Hyundai Hexa Space MPV concept for the country. The innovation made by Toyota India with the Innova MPV is not unobserved with the amazing success the MPV has garnered. To tap the demand, Hyundai India brought the MPV concept which has the potential to rival Toyota Innova by any standards at theAuto Expo. Though it’s still unsure as to the Hexa Space MPV concept will make it to the Indian car market as good in reality, the concept though is extraordinary to look at from every angle.

The exteriors are quite superior sporting the Fluidic design concept of Hyundai with an additional touch of the LED integrated headlamps and the prominent looking grille which seems to be quite in of late. The massive 19” alloy wheels are only to enhance the power of the MPV. Coming to the interiors of the Hyundai Hexa Space MPV, the interiors make you feel like you are in a space ship with the soft lit lights and the overall bluish grey tinge and the black contrast are just too good to experience. ‘Smart’ is the word that comes into mind when we look at the strategic seating layout which despite the narrow form being just 1820 mm wide has haphazardly arranged seats to extract maximum space. Overall the car looks immaculately clean from within with the least number of buttons and switches which usually tend to spoil the whole flavour of the car with the use of LCD touchscreen from where the maximum controls are taken care of.Automobile News

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander crossover is debuting in Geneva Motor Show

2012-01-22T23:26:00.001-08:00

Mitsubishi has released an image, which surprisingly looks very identical to PX-MiEV electric crossover concept, which this Japanese auto giant unveiled a couple of months ago at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. The image released a few weeks before the eminent 2012 Geneva Motor Show means that the company might be planning to launch the car at the Geneva Motor Show with all pomp and show. If we look at the image logically, this might be the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Crossover, which is a car that carves-up ample of design DNA from the PX-MiEV electric crossover concept.

The new 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Crossover is apparently a hybrid version, the company of late had been banking on the hybrid technology to surge its fortunes that were tripping down constantly since a past few years with numerous products that failed to be sold in the market as Mitsubishi had aimed for. The hybrid technology and electric car are considered amongst the biggest plans that the firm is putting together for future as rumors suggest that the well-known Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution-X’s successor might be back in diesel hybrid variant, which sounds exciting and interesting.Automobile News

Ford Motors India is investing Rs. 750 crore for rolling out EcoSport

2012-01-22T23:23:00.001-08:00

Ford India, the Indian subsidiary of the US-based Ford Motor Company, would reportedly invest Rs.750 crore at its plant in Chennai to roll out the new compact sports utility vehicle EcoSport this year. Ford India's President and Managing Director Michael Boneham, during a meeting with Chief Minister J. Jayalalitha Friday, informed her about the company's decision, said a statement issued by the Tamil Nadu government, according to reports.

It was mentioned that the fresh investment would create additional employment opportunities for about 400 people and the total investment by Ford India in Tamil Nadu after the AIADMK government came to power in the state had gone up to Rs.1,130 crore.

The reports stated that Ford India set up its factory at Maraimalai Nagar near here in 1995 when Jayalalithaa was chief minister who had then offered the car maker attractive tax incentives. The company has so far invested around Rs.4,500 crore in the assembly and engine plants and rolls out models like Figo, Fiesta Classic and Endeavour. Last year, Ford India had decided to invest Rs.4,000 crore in Gujarat to set up its second plant in India.Automobile News

Hero MotoCorp may pay 24 percent more in royalties to Honda

2012-01-22T23:21:00.001-08:00

Already the rupee depreciation has eroded into the profits of many auto majors and now it is reported in The Business Line that rupee depreciation is likely to lead to around 24 per cent increase in Hero MotoCorp's royalty payments to erstwhile partner Honda in the fiscal, than what it had previously expected at the start of 2011-12.

According to the report, however, the rupee value of yen-denominated payments could drop from the next fiscal on expectations of an appreciation of the rupee, according to Chief Financial Officer, Ravi Sud. He said “We expect the royalty payment for the March quarter (Q4) to be lower than last quarter, as we expect the rupee to appreciate from the current level. Rs 53-54 (versus dollar) is not stable.’’Automobile News

Fiat has a comparatively little success in India

2012-01-22T23:19:00.001-08:00

The Italian carmaker Fiat has a comparatively little success in India while other global car makers are increasing their presence. Now it has been reported in The Economic Times that the company plans to add heft to its diminutive presence in the Indian market by leaning on Chrysler, the US automaker in which it acquired a majority stake three years ago, as well as by launching a few of its own premium brands such as Alfa Romeo and Maserati.

According to the report, a team of senior officials from Chrysler recently visited India to conduct product clinics for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, an SUV in a price segment similar to that of Toyota's Fortuner, Ssangyong's Rexton and Chevrolet's Captiva. It was reported that quoting a person close to the development, a blueprint is being created to increase Fiat's presence in India with new models and, if these plans fructify, the new launches will be outside the 50:50 joint venture Fiat has with Tata Motors to make cars for the two companies as well as transmissions and engines.

It was reported that the Chrysler model will be brought into the country in completely-knocked-down (CKD) condition and assembled at the Tata-Fiat manufacturing operations in Ranjangaon, near Pune, on contract, the Fiat brands will be brought in via the CBU (completely built unit) route. The report stated that Fiat India CEO Rajeev Kapoor said "I have no comments to make on this." Reportedly Chrysler has big plans for emerging markets, and India is at the core of that strategy, according to the report.Automobile News

Tata Motors is ready to push Nano sales

2012-01-22T23:16:00.001-08:00

The Indian auto major Tata Motors ambitious small car Nano is still to make an impact in the market and the sales are not in the expected level. It has been reported that even Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata has reportedly admitted that there have been mistakes in the marketing and distribution of the Nano. Now according to the report in The Economic Times, an official at Tata Motors has said all elements of its strategy are in place to push sales.

R Ramakrishna, the company's vice-president was quoted as saying that initiatives to reach out to various sections of target customers, including initiatives to undo the perception that the Nano is a poor man's car, have already begun to yield positive results and improve sales. He said "Quite a lot of marketing activity is in place now - reaching out to the target segments, network strategy, handling the customers at the dealerships, tie-ups with various financiers. Every single element is falling in place now."

It was reported that the company is setting up exclusive showrooms to sell Nano cars in Tier-III and Tier-IV cities across the country, he said, because a typical Nano buyer is relatively scared to go to a full-fledged car showroom. Apart from the existing showrooms, the company has so far set up around 105 exclusive Nano showrooms and 250 special kiosks. Altogether, the company now has around 750 sales points where the Nano is available, he said.

According to the report, the Nano is aimed at multiple segments, he said, and it is being marketed differently for buyers of different age groups. "Sales have improved," he said, without revealing numbers, "We are reasonably happy with what we are doing and we want to do more. The objective is to utilise the full capacity (at the Sanand plant). We are progressing to expectations." He said whenever a new car is launched, people take some time to understand if it works for them and how it will be supported, it was mentioned.Automobile News

In 2012 Le Mans Morgan is set for return

2012-01-22T23:15:00.001-08:00

It's a sad time for Le Mans at the moment, what with Audi's perennial playmate Peugeot bowing out and Porsche's entrant still a couple of years off. But here's something to smile about: Morgan is back.

The British carmaker took class honours at the 1962 Le Mans 24hr race in the Morgan Super Sport (pictured above), and is looking to emulate that 50-year-old victory this year.

However, banish all thoughts of a man in driving goggles nailing a sportscar prototype Morgan 3 Wheeler down the Mulsanne straight. Awesome as that would be, the company is actually teaming up with OAK Racing and will enter just a single Morgan LMP2 racer, based on the OAK-Pescarolo cars, manufactured at OAK's constructor department based at the Technoparc des 24 Heures in Le Mans.

Charles Morgan, genial Morgan chief, said: "Whilst Morgan sports cars enjoy a great history we have also gained a reputation for pioneering new technology, and I believe LMP2 represents a superb proving ground in which to develop innovative new methods."

OAK President Jacques Nicolet was keen to stress why he wanted to team up with the nice chaps from Morgan. He said: "With them I feel the same passion that has inspired me since childhood, as well as the ‘family spirit' that I hope I have been able to create at OAK Racing.
"Who better than Morgan to embody the gentleman drivers' spirit needed for LMP2 competition," he added.Automobile News

Exit from Le Mans announced by Peugeot

2012-01-20T23:32:00.001-08:00

As Peugeot's announced that it'll end its endurance racing program for motorsport it turned into miserable day -, sidestepping this year's wondrous Le Mans 24 hour race for financial reasons.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Peugeot said: "This decision has been taken in the context of a difficult economic environment in Europe. Peugeot has chosen to concentrate resources on its sales performance in 2012."

Which begs the question - will main rivals and fellow dieselists, Audi, bother to turn up? Its motorsports spokesman refused to comment on the company's 2012 entry, but did say: "We're sad with the news - Audi's had some great duals with Peugeot. Our plans will be announced on February 2 - I would hope we will [turn up]."

So, if Audi does make it to La Sarthe, which manufacturers are going to make life interesting in the fastest-in-field LMP1 class? It's not looking good... Toyota's in the throes of developing its 2012 LMP1 program, though it's not competing in the whole campaign. Then there's Porsche, which is planning a return to the 24-hour race. But it won't have its car ready until 2014. Oh dear.

Until we hear what Audi's cooking up, click on for a look back at the legendary racers from the French company.

This is a brace of Peugeot 905s readying themselves for the 1991 24 Heures du Mans. Neither of the two cars entered made it past the four-hour mark.

Supercar limo with a V10 is Behold

2012-01-20T23:29:00.003-08:00

Expensive, two-seater supercars, OK, so they look cool, go extremely fast, have superb handling based on millions of dollars of research, slip through the air like greased lightning after about a decade in a wind-tunnel, and you can sell them on to someone else for lots of money when you're finished. But you can only take one of your mates for a ride.

And if this is the reason you purchased a Vauxhall Zafira over an Audi R8, we have good news. Limo Brokers in the UK now claim to have an answer: an eight-seater R8 limo with eight gullwing doors.

Supercar limo with a V10 is Behold

2012-01-20T23:29:00.001-08:00

And if this is the reason you purchased a Vauxhall Zafira over an Audi R8, we have good news. Limo Brokers in the UK now claim to have an answer: an eight-seater R8 limo with eight gullwing doors.

Beetle diesel to launch by Volkswagen at Chicago auto show

2012-01-20T23:27:00.001-08:00

The European automobile major Volkswagen has reportedly confirmed that it will launch a diesel version of the all new Beetle at next month's Chicago Auto Show, following the unveiling of the petrol range in April last year.

As the reports say, the new diesel-powered Beetle will feature the same 2.0 litre engine that drives the Jetta small sedan and the Golf. It was also reported that the 103TDI delivers 103kW and 320Nm of torque, with fuel consumption listed at 5.5 l/100km internationally, the Beetle 103TDI will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission and a six-speed DSG automatic transmission.

Wald International presents 2012 Porsche Panamera Black Bison

2012-01-20T23:24:00.001-08:00

There have been several tuning programs over the past couple of years, but one thing that has remained a constant is how impressed we are with Wald International’s Black Bison tuning program.

After similar programs were given to the BMW 5-Series, the Mercedes S63 AMG, and the Jaguar XJ, Wald International is setting its sights on another German luxury sports car: the Porsche Panamera S.

Black Bison program of Wald International for the Panamera S comes with a comprehensive list of aerodynamic components, including a new carbon fiber aero kit with a new front fascia and sculpted air intakes, front fender air vents, a rear diffuser, a boot lid spoiler, and rocker panels. Matching the cool style of the Black Bison aero kit, Wald International also lowered the car’s suspension and fitted the Panamera S with a new set of two-tone, five-spoke lightweight alloy rims with the firm’s signature custom tail pipes.

Performance upgrades have been left out of the program, but you can still expect the Panamera S and its 4.8-liter V8 engine to produce a stout 400 horsepower and 369 lb/ft of torque to go with its 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds a top speed of 175 mph.

2012 MINI Cooper Baker

2012-01-20T23:20:00.001-08:00

MINI has never been the shy type when it comes to rolling out special edition models, especially when certain situations call for it.

As an official sponsor of the 2012 London Olympic Games, you can’t come up with a more ideal situation for a special edition Cooper. Heck, they even made two of them.

Inside, the model of Baker Street dressed in robes of unique, with a gray cross check for the roof finish of the dashboard and doors and diamond pattern, contrast seams gray light of the floor mats, shifter / lever, handbrake gaiters, and security labels.

The Cooper Baker Street Edition is configured to be available in MINI One, Cooper, D One, Cooper D models with sales scheduled to begin in the spring of 2012.

Top rating in DEKRA earned by Audi A4 Used Car Report

2012-01-20T23:18:00.001-08:00

As a mark of luxury cars and performance that is among the best in the world, Audi has constantly pushed to the brink of automotive research and technology to ensure long term reliability and superior performance of its road cars.

Proof of this was evident in the 2011 DEKRA Used Car Report that provided top honours to the German car maker’s mid-size A4 sedan model. As the vehicle with the lowest fault rate in its class of cars in 2011 the Audi A4 is the “Best of All Classes”, a badge that its elder sibling the A6 has proudly been carrying for the past three years now. The Audi A6 took third place in the 2011 report standings.

As it came in 2008, the DEKRA testing organization examines the quality and safety of vehicles from a total of 15 million cars that are examined after being divided into eight different categories.

As part of the Used Car Report, which was previously called the Faults Report, DEKRA also creates a specific fault profile in three mileage classes for each vehicle type. The model with the best average from all three mileage classes is named “Best of All Classes.” So far, among all brands shortlisted by DEKRA year after year the most reliable car with the fewest faults has always been an Audi.

At 2012 Delhi Auto Expo Force Motors unveils Force One 4x4

2012-01-20T23:14:00.001-08:00

Entry of the Force Motors' in the passenger vehicle segment with the Force One has opened new windows for the company. The two-wheel drive version that was in launched mid-2011 had cut the slack for Force Motors. However, a four wheel drive version was dearly needed. At the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo, Force also unveiled a four-wheel drive version of the SUV. The engine will be the same 2.2-litre Daimler mill that does duty in the existing two-wheel drive variant. The expected launch time of the 4x4 Force One is mid-2012.

Traveller-26 was also displayed by Force Motors when launched, will be the world’s largest monocoque van. A hybrid version of the Traveller is also on the cards, though there is no word on when it will be launched. The development of vehicles are in-house with claims of car-like ride and NVH levels, added safety features, best in class fuel economy and BSIV compliance. There was also a more premium Traveller Luxury van on display.

Also on show were the CNG versions of the Traveller and Trump which are best fit for urban areas where CNG infrastructure is limited. These aside, Force Motors also displayed the 223 PS MAN Airobus, a 45 seater Inter-City air-conditioned coach. The BSIII compliant coach is mated to a six-speed gearbox and would be available in the commercial market soon.

On cartelization Apollo Tyres fined Rs 30 crore charge in South Africa

2012-01-20T23:10:00.001-08:00

NEW DELHI: Apollo Tyres has been asking to cough up 45 million rands (about Rs 30 crore) as punishment for falling into the cartel in South Africa, a conflict which the company refers to the period when the firm was in charge of Dunlop.

South African Competition Commission said that Apollo Tyres (formerly Dunlop) has admitted that he participated in the cartel and tire manufacturers agreed on prices and price increases.

"Apollo Tyres has agreed to pay a penalty of R45 million which represents 4.75 per cent of its 2008 total turnover and admits that it was involved in price fixing conduct," the Commission said in its order.

When asked about the allegations, Apollo Tyres said it has agreed to pay up the fine in the interest of shareholders although the period referred to by the Commission belonged to the erstwhile management.

"In the interest of business and its various stakeholders, Apollo Tyres South Africa Pty Ltd (previously Dunlop Tyres International Pty Ltd), has amicably settled allegations of cartelisation by the South African Competition Commission."

Spokesperson of Apollo tyre said, "During the period referred to by the Competition Commission, the company was led by the previous management, and a management change took place post the acquisition by Apollo Tyres. The current management had no involvement in, or knowledge of, the anti-competitive conduct identified by the Commission. The company has decided to settle this and move forward in the best interest of all stakeholders."

The agreement followed the South African Commission's investigation against South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (Pty) Ltd (SATMC) and four local tyre manufacturers and suppliers -- Apollo, Goodyear South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Continental Tyre South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Bridgestone South Africa (Pty) Ltd ("Bridgestone").

The Commission had initiated this case following a complaint lodged by a fleet owner, alleging that the local tyre manufacturers simultaneously adjusted their prices around the same time and within the same parameters.