All-New 2011 Volkswagen Passat Price @ Rs. 20.80 Lakhs Launched in India

- All-New Volkswagen Passat will be available in the diesel variant in both automatic and manual transmissions

- All-New Volkswagen Passat Price starting at 20.80 lakh ex showroom Delhi.

Volkswagen, Europe’s leading car manufacturer unveiled the all-new Passat with the highly innovative BlueMotion Technologies for India today.

The all-new Passat will be available to customers in the diesel variant in both automatic and manual transmissions, starting at 20.80 lakh ex showroom Delhi. Sales of the all new Passat will start with the Highline and Comfortline which will later be followed by the Trendline.

Speaking about this new launch, Neeraj Garg, Member of Board and Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. said, “We started our journey in India with the introduction of the Passat in 2007, and three successful years later it gives us great pleasure to bring the latest generation to the market.

The all-new Passat will be exclusively available with BlueMotion Technologies in India and the distinctive innovations will work together to achieve good fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without depriving customers from the fun of driving.

It is a design into the future with upgraded comfort, convenience, quality and safety, and more importantly cleaner and extremely fuel efficient.”

Mr. Lutz Kothe, Head of Marketing and PR Volkswagen Group Sales Pvt. Ltd. added by saying, “The Volkswagen Brand’s commitment to sustainability is translated through the innovations of the BlueMotion Technologies. These efficient technologies have been implemented in a range of Volkswagen cars and are among the cleanest and most fuel efficient in the world. The introduction of the all-new Passat further emphasizes Volkswagen Brand’s commitment to India.”

Source: Volkswagen

Toyota Ranks Top In Satisfying Dealers in India

Recent growth in the light-vehicle market in India has spurred optimism among many automotive dealerships, with more than 60 percent indicating they expect to generate a profit by the end of their current fiscal year, according to the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2011 India Dealer Satisfaction with Automotive Manufacturers StudySM released today. More than 80 percent of these dealers say they expect their 2011 profits to exceed their 2010 profits.

The inaugural study measures dealer satisfaction with vehicle manufacturers or importers and identifies dealer attitudes regarding the automotive sales business. Overall dealer satisfaction is determined by examining nine factors: marketing and sales activities; product; vehicle ordering and delivery; sales team; parts; warranty claims; after-sales team; training; and support from the manufacturer. The study is designed to provide manufacturers with insights about dealer opinions and attitudes to help them improve dealer relations. In addition, the study identifies key dealer-related opportunities and challenges to assist automakers in achieving their overall business objectives.

“India’s light-vehicle market is growing rapidly, and the changing market environment underscores the need for automakers operating in India to develop strong and competitive dealer networks,” said Mohit Arora, executive director at J.D. Power Asia Pacific, Singapore. “As the market matures, forming strong dealer networks will become more and more critical for manufacturers to secure greater market share.”

The study finds that dealerships that indicate they expect to generate a profit by the end of the fiscal year are notably more satisfied with their respective manufacturers than are dealerships that indicate they expect to experience a financial loss. Among dealerships that expect to be profitable in 2011, satisfaction averages 780 on a 1,000-point scale. In comparison, among dealerships that expect to incur financial loss, satisfaction averages 609—a difference of more than 170 points.

The study also finds that dealerships that receive regular and frequent visits from manufacturer sales representatives are notably more satisfied than dealers that have less-frequent contact with the OEM. Among dealerships that indicate they are visited by a manufacturer’s representative an average three to five times a month, satisfaction averages 787. In contrast, among dealerships that receive visits once a month, on average, satisfaction averages 740.

“This suggests the existence of a reciprocal effect between satisfaction and expected profitability for automotive dealerships,” said Arora. “Dealers that are more engaged with their respective manufacturers are also more satisfied, which may help improve dealer profitability. In turn, boosting profitability for dealers may also help manufacturers increase their bottom line.”

Despite the relatively high levels of expected profitability among dealerships in India, the study finds that dealers for domestic manufacturers (those headquartered in India) are significantly less satisfied with their expected profitability than are dealers for manufacturers based in the United States or Japan. Forty-two percent of dealers of manufacturers based in India say they are “dissatisfied” with their dealership’s expected profitability. Among dealers affiliated with manufacturers based in the United States or Japan, 16 percent and 19 percent of dealers, respectively, say the same. Conversely, 16 percent of dealers affiliated with U.S.-based manufacturers and 10 percent of dealers for manufacturers based in Japan indicate they are “delighted” with their expected profitability. However, only 4 percent of dealers of domestic manufacturers say the same.

In 2011, overall dealer satisfaction with automotive manufacturers averages 749. Among the manufacturers included in the study, Toyota ranks highest with a score of 890 and performs particularly well in all nine factors. Following Toyota in the rankings are Chevrolet (809) and Maruti Suzuki (798).

The study finds there is ample opportunity for manufacturers to improve in the factors for marketing and sales and support from the manufacturer, which are the least satisfying among the nine factors measured. In the marketing and sales factor, increasing subsidies for marketing expenditures and shortening the claims process for reimbursement of marketing expenses may have the most notable positive impacts on satisfaction. In addition, making it easier for dealerships to conduct business with the OEM would have a considerable positive effect on satisfaction in the support from the manufacturer factor, as would establishing processes for attracting and retaining highly qualified employees.

The 2011 India Dealer Satisfaction with Automotive Manufacturers Study is based on responses from 545 dealer principals or dealership general managers located in more than 170 cities throughout India. The study was conducted in association with the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), and was fielded between September 2010 and January 2011.

Source: Toyota

Ford India Rolls Out 100000th Engine

Ford India's Maraimalainagar Nagar engine facility rolled out its 100,000th engine this month. This significant milestone was achieved just 14 months after the engine plant opened for operations in January 2010.

Commenting on the achievement, Michael Boneham, president and managing director of Ford India said "We are thrilled and proud to celebrate the 100,000 production milestone in such a short space of time - my congratulations to all plant employees for a job well done! This world-class manufacturing facility reinforces our intent and commitment to compete with great products and powertrains in all segments."

"We are proud of the milestone which was achieved thanks to the great team spirit of our highly motivated and dedicated employees. We are confident that the next 100,000 engines will be produced at an even faster pace," said Radhakrishnan Balasundaram, vice-president, Powertrain Operations (PTO) who heads the India Engine Plant.

Part of Ford's USD 500-million investment at the Maraimalai Nagar site, the India Engine Plant is designed to meet the growing needs of the Indian vehicle market and export opportunities. The plant achieved the 100,000 milestone amongst multiple variant launches for domestic and international markets.

The plant is the first Ford facility to feature a flexible production line manufacturing petrol and diesel engines. Today, the plant produces five Duratec petrol engine variants and one Duratorq diesel engine variant for Ford vehicles. The plant has also exported more than one-third of the engines produced to South Africa and Thailand so far.

Covering more than 40,000 square metres, the facility is an advanced manufacturing centre that has been created with the global best practices for engine manufacturing and has the capacity to produce 250,000 engines per year.

In addition to state-of-the-art facilities, the plant runs a number of innovative eco-friendly production strategies including a "cold test process" using advanced electronics and sensing mechanisms to evaluate the engine performance and (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) NVH parametres. In this process, no fuel is burnt.

"The cold test process helps to reduce our carbon footprint as well as test-cycle times and allows better NVH control," Balasundaram added.

In recognition of its leading best practices, the plant was awarded the Total Maturity Model (TMM) quality award by Ford Global Powertrain Manufacturing Engineering in 2010. With this milestone, India seems to be emerging as a low-displacement engine manufacturing hub for Ford in the Asia Pacific and Africa region.

Source: Ford India

Low Price Bikes in India, Cheapest Bikes in India, Cheap Bikes

Are you looking for Cheapes Bikes in India. Find out Cheap Bikes in India. Check out Affordable Low Cost Bikes which are currently available in India.

1. Hero Honda Cd-Dawn:

Hero Honda CD Dawn is a beginner's bike with tested well on Indian roads and proven very good in city conditions. Hero Honda CD Dawn is cheaper bike with 100cc engine. Its comes with a good quality and fuel efficiency as well. This bike has a good resale value as all Hero Honda Bikes have.

Hero Honda Cd-dawn Price in India: Rs. 35,600 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

2. Yamaha Crux:

Yamaha Crux is a more reliable bike with good mileage, attractive price, fuel efficiency as well. Yamaha Crux has a good capabilities as per the customers satisfaction. Yamaha Crux is one of the best selling bike for Yamaha.

Yamaha Crux Price in India: Rs. 35,900 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

3. Bajaj Platina:

Bajaj Platina, comes with Platinum Silver and Shine Chrome graphics. Looks great when some one rides it. More than 0.7 million units were sold by Bajaj Bikes and still going well. It was an entry level bike with special features inclueded in it.

Bajaj Platina Price in India: Rs. 36,600 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

4. Yamaha ALBA Spoke:

Yamaha ALBA comes with Aerodynamic cowl, ergonomic seat, sturdy tank, broad seat and more features. Its design is very good for indian customers. It was specially manufactured for indian roads. Yamaha ALBA this model comes with spoke wheels.

Yamaha ALBA Spoke Price in India: Rs. 37,700 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

5. TVS Star Sport:

TVS Star Sport is very popular because of Dhoni's advertisement in the TV. Its looks like a good bike in 100cc with attractive price as well. Lookwise its very comfortable and powerful as well.

TVS Star Sport Price in India: Rs. 38,000 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

6. Hero Honda CD-Deluxe:

Hero Honda CD-Deluxe is newer version of Hero Honda CD-Dawn. Hero Honda CD-Deluxe sale is very good because of its look and ability. It looks very decent and as per the drivers thoughts its very good one. Hero Honda CD-Deluxe sales improves day by day. Its one of the successful bike for Hero Honda Bikes.

Hero Honda CD-Deluxe Price in India: Rs. 38,800 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

7. Suzuki Heat Alloy:

Suzuki Heat Alloy comes with 125cc powerful engine. Its economy attracts buyers as well. Suzuki bikes are not more popular in compare to Bajaj & Hero Honda but still they are in the market with few customers joins them. This bike suits for middle class buyers.

Suzuki Heat Alloy Price in India: Rs. 39,500 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) (Estimated On Road Price)

Low Price Cars in India, Cheapest Cars India, Indian Cheap Cars

Are you looking for low price cars in India or cheapest cars in India. Here is the list of top 5 cheapest cars in India. Check out the low price cars in India with price, features & fuel mileage.

1. Tata Nano:

Tata Nano has become the cheapest car for Indian Automobile market. Its engine is a multi-fuel injection petrol type. Looks compact and first time its using a two-cylinder gasoline engine along with a balance shaft added to it. Tata Nano as per look and its capability is good too. Few features of Tata Nano such as crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, seat belts, strong seats, anchorages, rear tailgate glass attached to the body of the car and tubeless tyres.

Tata Nano Price in India: from 110,000 to Rs 180,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi)

2. Maruti 800

Maruti 800 is the best car for Indian roads as per its customer satisfaction and its reliability. Maruti launched first small car Maruti 800 few years back. With fuel efficiency of around 20 kmpl looks awesome for the riders of Maruti 800. Look comfortable for middle class families. Maruti 800 will be replaced by new Maruti Cervo soon. This has lead to the phase out of the car from at least 13 cities across the nation.

Maruti 800 Price in India: From 180,000 to Rs 230,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

3. Maruti Alto:

Maruti Also comes with a 796cc, 3-cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder MPFI, FC engine with 32 Bit ECM. Engine is capable of generating 47PS power at 6200rpm and 62 NM torque at 3000rpm. Maruti Alto has fuel efficiency around 17-18 kmpl. Maruti Alto features like AC, fabric seats, remote fuel lid opener, etc.

Maruti Alto Price in India: From Rs 225,000 to Rs 280,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

4. Hyundai Santro:

Hyundai Santro is the best selling car for Hyundai in India. Witl its good mileage and power its look more reliable for customers. It comes with good suspension with stabilisers that provides better control. Hyundai Santro also comes with a distributor less ignition system that provides good fuel efficiency, less emissions and more power.

Hyundai Santro Price in India: From Rs 270,000 to Rs 380,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

5. Chevrolet Spark:

Chevrolet Spark comes with good warranty by Chevrolet Cars India. Its style looks very good. Its newer version of old Matiz. The car has a centrally-mounted instrument console and the car has good interiors. Chevrolet Spark comes with 995cc petrol engine that generates 48.5KW and a maximum torque of 87.3Nm. Car is claimed to give a mileage of 17 kmpl

Chevrolet Spark Price in India: Rs 305,000 to Rs 430,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

New Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro Launched in India; Price Starts @ Rs. 39 Lakhs

- The new Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q price at Rs 3,905,000 (ex-showroom Maharashtra).

Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer has announced the launch of the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro, the most recent addition to the highly successful luxury SUV in India. The new Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q is priced at Rs3,905,000 (ex-showroom Maharashtra). Deliveries to customers will begin in April 2011.

“We are confident that the addition of the powerful 2.0 TDI q engine to the Audi Q5 range in India will strengthen and sustain our leadership position in the luxury SUV segment. The all new Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q, resonates higher efficiency and dynamic performance with its new engine and refreshed array of characteristics, that reflect our core brand essence of „Vorsprung durch Technik‟,” said Michael Perschke, Head – Audi India.

The Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q with 125kW / 170 hp reaches a maximum torque of 350 Nm 1,750 rpm and develops its power evenly, leading to a fascinating driving experience. It is equipped with the dynamic 7–speed automatic S tronic transmission, which is impressive for its short, sporty shift times and smooth gearshift across the entire spread between the shortest and the longest ratios. 2/3

The Audi Q5 range is also powered by a petrol engine – the 2.0 TFSI q and a diesel engine – the 3.0 TDI q. The new 2.0 TDI q engine would be available as CKD.

Audi India sold 3003 cars in 2010, exceeding targets yet again to achieve record growth of 81%. “This encouraging performance reinforces the increased aspiration for technical finesse and progressive sophistication among luxury automotive customers in India. Audi India will continue to expand its product line up and deliver path breaking and award winning cars to cater to this rising need,” added Michael Perschke.

Audi India is also focused at strengthening its dealer network across India. This year, the brand with the four rings has already opened showrooms in Delhi and Chennai with Ludhiana to follow soon. Last year, the company inaugurated showrooms in Mumbai West, Kolkata, Jaipur and Bengaluru.

The Audi model range in India includes Audi A4, Audi A6, Audi A8, Audi Q5, Audi Q7, Audi TT, the super sports car Audi R8 and the recently launched Audi R8 Spyder available across the country: in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Mumbai West and Pune. Further developments include Surat, Mumbai South, Coimbatore, Indore, Lucknow and Delhi West.

Source: Audi India

2 New E-Scooter Models Launched in India by Hi Bird

Hi Bird, a leading manufacturer and exporter of bicycles from India has forayed into two wheeler market with launch of two models of eco friendly electronic scooters for the first time.

"New electric scooters in line with the go-green goal have been launched to complement efforts to reduce air polluting vehicle emission. The futuristic-looking scooters feature an electric motor mounted in the rear wheel, which is powered by lithium-ion batteries. The scooters have a top speed of 100kph and a maximum range of about 70 km after each charge of 5-6 hours" said Mr R.D.Sharma, Chairman, Hibird Group of Industries.

"The scooter has an on-board charging system and can be charged using the household electric plug point, the vehicles are totally environment friendly noise free, smoke free, no petrol, no registration, no license and has a very low running cost. The carrying capacity of the vehicle is one adult and one child".Mr Sharma added.

"Hi Bird company has taken over the ambitious venture to launch Battery Operated e scooters at an affordable price to cater to the sizable Indian middle class. He added that there is huge demand for e-scooters in the country as it can be easily driven by youngsters, working women, professionals and senior citizens.The price range of two models is between Rs 27,000 and Rs 28,900" Mr Sharma said.

"The recent government subsidies on electric bikes has encouraged us to launch electric two wheelers. In fact, the state governments of Delhi and Chandigarh offer 20% subsidy apart from the central government rebate of 15% on electric two wheeler’s.Hero Electric is the current leader in electric two-wheelers with more than 30% market share and sales of around 80,000 two wheelers per annum. The favourable market condition has led TVS to re-enter the segment by launching electric scooters next year" he added .

Hi-bird an ISO 9001 company is one of the largest bi cycle exporter in the country and the cycles launched in India are the same products available to quality conscious consumers in USA and Europe. The products for Indian market have been designed suited to Indian rugged road conditions and consumer needs and are perfect blend of European quality, Japanese Technology and African sturdiness.

Source: Hi Bird

Honda 250cc Bike Honda CBR250R Launched in India; Price Starts @ Rs. 1.5 Lakh

Honda Bikes in India launched 250cc bike Honda CBR250R. It was announced in January 2011. Honda CBR250R comes in two variants like ABS and non-ABS.

Honda CBR250R ABS Price will be around 1.7 Lakh Rs., while Honda CBR250R non-ABS price will be around 1.5 Lakh Rs.

Honda CBR250R will be available in 3 colours like Red, Black and Silver.

Honda CBR250R will give good competition to Kawasaki Ninja, Bajaj Pulsar, TVS Apache and Hero Honda Karizma. Honda CBR250R will be a great addition to the bike family for Honda in India.

Honda 250cc Bike Honda CBR250R Photos, Images & Pictures Gallery

Maruti SX4 Diesel Booking Cross 5K Unit

Recently launched Maruti SX4 Diesel car got good response from the customers. Maruti SX4 Diesel already received more than 5000 bookings in quick time. Maruti SX4 is available in petrol variant as well. Maruti SX4 Diesel is an addition to the variant and it got warmth response. Maruti SX4 strengthened its position in India along with competitors like Hyundai Verna, Toyota Etios, Volkswagen Vento, Honda City, etc.

Mr. Shashank Srivastava, Chief General Manager, Marketing, Maruti Suzuki India, said to the reporters, "We have received an overwhelming response for the SX4 diesel. Our target was 2000 units per month but with this kind of response we will have to work harder to cater to the demand."

Maruti SX4 Diesel was launched in India in February 2011. Maruti SX4 Diesel price bracket of Rs 7.90 Lakh to Rs 9.12 Lakh. Maruti SX4 Diesel has high fuel efficiency of 21.5 kmpl.

By: Jack Dawson

Honda Enters in Used Bikes Business

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HSMI) has entered in used two-wheeler business. Honda is planning to reach at top mark within a decade. For that Honda decided to enter in 100cc bike market as well by end of this year.

Honda recenly launched Honda CBR 250R semi-sports bike in compare to Bajaj Pulsar, TVS Apache & Hero Honda Karizma. Honda CBR 250R will be available in India from April.

It is sure that Horo and Honda now seprated and Honda will get profit of 80 billion yen after selling its stake to Hero Group. Now company is planning to expand their own network in India to improve in profit.

Honda entered in use tw-wheeleer market with five 'Best Deal' outlets in Bangalore, Delhi, Thane, Ahmedabad and Punjab. This outlets will buy and sell used Honda bikes & two-wheelers. Company will provide 6 months warranty as well. Honda is keen about their new business that it will produce good profit.

By: Jack Dawson

New Hyundai Accent 2011 Edition Launched in India; Price Around 5 Lakh

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), the country's largest exporter and the second largest car manufacturer, today announced the launch of the Accent 2011 edition. The exteriors of the Accent gets a new look with chrome finish front grille lending a premium look. The body colored waistline molding now comes with chrome inserts to enhance the elegance. Also, the chrome garnish over license plate gives a classic look to the Accent 2011 edition.

Commenting on the new offering, Arvind Saxena, Director, Marketing and Sales, HMIL said, "The Accent 2011 edition comes with elegant styling which makes it more sophisticated and desirable. It is our continuous effort to gauge changing customer preferences and keep introducing new features in our products. We are confident that with the new styling the Accent 2011 edition will become even more popular".

Hyundai Accent 2011 Edition Price in India:

The Hyundai Accent 2011 edition will be available with a special price of Rs 501,900 (ex-showroom, New Delhi)

The Accent which was launched in 1999 has won many awards including top ranks in the prestigious Hyundai Accent has topped the JD Power Asia Pacific IQS for 2002 and the APEAL study for 2001 and 2002.JD Power Asia Pacific ‘IQS' and ‘APEAL' studies. The wooden finish interiors, leather-wrapped gear knob & steering wheel, rear defogger and front & rear power windows come as part of the standard package in the Accent. It is also available with alternate fuel options such as CNG and LPG. Sold in the Indian as well as overseas markets, the highly popular Accent has sold over 3 lakh units.

Source: Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL)

Honda 100CC Bike To Be Launched in India Next Year

Auto giant Honda said on Monday that they are planning to launch low cost 100cc bike in India in q1 next year. As Honda had exited Hero-Honda JV they are planning to add 100cc bikes in Indian market. Honda is willing to invest heavily in India to enhance its manufacturing capicity as well.

Mr. Shinji Aoyama, outgoing president and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor said to reporters, "Until now we had not entered the mass segment because of the joint venture. Now we can. From next year we plan to introduce a mass segment motorcycle in 100cc category in India."

Currently Hero Honda and Bajaj are big players in 100cc bikes market specially Hero Honda gets good business because of their reliability. Honda is planning to become largest bike maker in India by 2020.

By: Jack Dawson

Tata Cars Price To Be Increase Around Rs. 36000 From April

Tata cars will be get price increase around Rs. 36000 from the month April 2011. Indian auto giant Tata Motors announced to hike price of its car models from next month. The new prices will be affect from April 1st. As above this Tata Nao will not get the price hike. Company Said, "Despite continuous cost control initiatives, the company is being forced to take these increases on account of steep rise in input costs."

As Tata Motors other car makers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai are expected to take decision of price hike of their car models as well.

Tata Cars Price Hike as per Tata Car Models:

Tata Indica will be costlier by Rs. 7000 to 9000

Tata Indica Vista and Indigo CS will be costlier by Rs. 8000 to 11000

Tata Manza will be costlier by Rs. 10000 to 15000

Tata Sumo will be costlier by Rs. 13000 to 15000

Tata Sumo Grande will be costlier by Rs. 16000 to 19000

Tata Safari will be costlier by Rs. 18000 to 29000

New Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Unveiled by Exclusive Motors

Exclusive Motors Ltd now unveils its all new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4. The long-awaited flagship model which was being shown to global automotive and luxury markets is now for the Indian customers too.

With the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4, Lamborghini is redefining the very pinnacle of the world super sports car market – brutal power, outstanding lightweight engineering and phenomenal handling precision are combined with peerless design and the very finest equipment to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. With the Aventador, Lamborghini is taking a big step into the future – and building on the glorious history of the brand with the next automotive legend.

Confirming the news, . Satya Bagla, Managing Director, Exclusive Motors . Ltd. said, “We confirmed our long term strategy, which calls for stable and significant investments in new products even in difficult times. We are pleased to showcase the extraordinary new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 which is a jump of two generations in terms of design and technology but at the same time it’s a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini’s brand values. Overall, the dynamics and technical excellence of the Aventador LP 700-4 make it unrivalled in the worldwide super sports car arena.”

The technology package of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is utterly unique. It is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon-fiber that combines exceptional lightweight engineering with the highest levels of stiffness and safety. The new twelve-cylinder with 6.5 liters’ displacement and 515 kW / 700 hp brings together the ultimate in high-revving pleasure with astonishing low-end torque. Thanks to a dry weight of only 1,575 kilograms (3,472 lb), extremely low for this class of vehicle. Even the fantastic 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration figure of just 2.9 seconds and the top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph) do not fully describe the Aventador’s extreme performance. And yet, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are down by around 20 percent compared with its predecessor, despite the considerable increase in power (+8%).

The ISR transmission is unique among road-going vehicles, guaranteeing the fastest shifting time (only 50 milliseconds) and a highly emotional shift feel, while the lightweight chassis with pushrod suspension delivers absolute handling precision and competition-level performance. The expressively-designed interior offers hi-tech features ranging from the TFT cockpit display with Drive Select Mode system. The Aventador will be built to the very highest quality standards in an all-new production facility in Sant’Agata Bolognese.

The new Aventador LP 700-4 is a combination of sculpture of extreme dynamics, exclusive and high-tech interior, carbon-fiber monocoque, maximum revs, amazing sound, innovative transmission for maximum performance, refined and safe with all-wheel drive, pushrod suspension, extensive assistance and safety systems, a rich and wide-ranging individualization program, and of course the little spark of the doors opening upward.

Exclusive Motors has already started receiving orders for the model and the car will be available in India from deliveries would start in the 3rd quarter of this year.

Source: Exclusive Motors Ltd

Mahindra Racing To Debut in Race On March 17-20

Mahindra Racing – part of the US $7.1 billion Mahindra Group – will make its race debut on March 17-20 at the 5.38km Losail International Circuit for round 1 of the 125cc MotoGP World Championship.

Mahindra is the first Indian motorcycle manufacturer to enter a team into the prestigious MotoGP World Championship with its GP125 racing motorcycle, entered in the 125cc class.

Produced by Mahindra’s Italy-based Engines Engineering division, the GP125 will be ridden by riders Danny Webb from Britain and Marcel Schrötter from Germany.

Qatar is likely to present a tough debut venue. Its desert location means sand is often blown on to the track, making finding a good bike set-up difficult on the constantly changing surface. It is also the season’s only night race, held under floodlights, giving added difficulties to the riders.

Speaking about Mahindra’s participation in the MotoGP Championships, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra Group, said, “It is a matter of great pride for us to represent India in the world’s most prestigious two-wheeled race series. Mahindra Motorcycles will compete with the best in class, and it will be an ideal opportunity for us to showcase our strengths in the engineering and IT domains. MotoGP is the ultimate test for the finest talents in motorcycle racing and an immensely popular championship with a cult following. Our participation will also help us leverage the power of global branding for the Mahindra Group.”

Team Principal Mufaddal Choonia heralds the team’s debut. “I am very proud to be part of the first Indian team in MotoGP racing. This is a big challenge for everyone involved and we are all working very hard to ensure we are competitive.

“Mahindra are a US $7.1 billion multinational group, and we build three things: products, services and possibilities. We are new to the two-wheeler market and our entry in MotoGP shows our ambition.

“Ultimately, we are not in the sport to make up the numbers, we are here to win. That might sound ambitious, but that’s the way we are. I know that this is a big task, but we are all focused and we are in the battle for the long term” said Choonia.

Leading Mahindra’s charge is 19-year-old Danny Webb from Tunbridge Wells, England, who starts his fifth season in the category.

“I think my experience and potential attracted the team to me, and the strength and back-up of the Mahindra Group combined with the expertise at Engines Engineering drew me to them. Qatar’s our first race together and we’re focused on improving steadily through the season.

“I like the Qatar track but racing at night is an usual challenge. It’s a bit like being in a Playstation game, and you have to learn to ignore the shadows from the riders behind you as the floodlights makes it look like they are riding into you all the time. I’m confident we’ll do a good job.”

Eighteen year-old Marcel Schrötter from Pflugdorf, Germany, is entering his second season in the category. “I’m looking forward to Qatar and it will be great to be racing again. I am still learning the GP125, and the bike is still being developed so it is difficult to know how well we will go in our first race but I will be pushing hard all the way.”

Watching over activities during the four days action in Qatar is team manager, Nicola Casadei. “It is fair to say that testing was not as straight-forward as we hoped as we were interrupted by a lot of rain, but we have a good understanding of the bike. We know our strengths and we know where we have to improve. Qatar will give us a good gauge of where we sit relative to our rivals.”

The Grand Prix of Qatar opens with practice sessions for the 125cc class on March 17-18, followed by qualifying on March 19 and the race on March 20.

Toyota Ramps Up Production To 210000 Units

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM)announced the ramp up of its annual production capacity to 2, 10,000 units.

In line with TKM’s increasing annual production capacity and in order to cater to the increase in demand for the Innova , Fortuner,Corolla Altis and the Etios , the company will ramp up production to 2,10,000 units.

The company recently announced its plans for the introduction of second shift production in April , reduction in takt time (production time per vehicle), production enhancement and postponement of the launch of hatchback Etios Liva from April to June 2011 - all reflecting the active measures taken to reduce the waiting period for the Etios.

Furthering these measures, the annual production capacity of the first plant currently manufacturing the Innova, Corolla Altis and Fortuner, will be increased from 80,000 units to 90,000 units in the third quarter of 2011. The second plant currently manufactures the Etios. To cater to the increasing demand for Etios and with a view to reduce the waiting period, the annual production capacity for the second plant will be raised from 70,000 to 1,20,000 units . The expansion will be carried out in a phased manner starting in July 2011, extending into the second quarter of 2012. The 1,20,000 units will also include 20,000 units of the Corolla Altis, shifted from the first plant to the second plant in the first half of 2012.

Commenting on the expansion . Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director, TKM said “The demand for the Innova and Fortuner has persistently grown in the recent months and consequently the waiting period. The huge demand for the Etios has further provided momentum to expand our production capacity. We will enhance our production capacity to cater to our customers growing demand.”

Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, TKM further added “We recently announced our plans to bring down the waiting period for the Etios, which included enhancing production and deferring the launch of the hatchback Etios Liva.This production expansion will further our aim to bring down the waiting period.”

Ten Millionth Maruti Car Rolled Out

Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s largest car manufacturer today rolled out its 1 Crore (ten millionth) car. The historic 1 Crore car, a Metallic Breeze Blue coloured WagonR VXi rolled out from the Company’s Gurgaon plant. With this landmark achievement, Maruti Suzuki becomes the only Indian car company that makes its entry into the select club of automobile manufacturers across the globe who have crossed this milestone.

On the occasion, Shinzo Nakanishi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, “As we reach this historic landmark, we thank our founding partners who laid a solid foundation of values and practices. We thank our customers who have brought us this far. The commitment of employees and continued strong support of business associates has played a critical role all through the journey. Their enthusiasm and commitment is especially reflected in manufacturing around 5 million units just in the last 6 years. Today is a day of pride for the full Maruti Suzuki family.”

Maruti Suzuki India Limited, started operations in India in 1983 (then Maruti Udyog Limited) as a joint venture between the Government of India and Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan.

The Company’s journey towards 1 Crore mark, picked momentum in recent times through several focused initiatives like capacity expansion, higher productivity levels and enhanced R&D capability demonstrated through product refreshments. A new car design philosophy, as evidenced in world strategic models like the Swift, SX4, A-Star, Ritz and WagonR helped to win customer’s hearts. Contemporary DDiS and Super Turbo Diesel engines and the K-Series petrol engines helped to reinforce the technological supremacy of Maruti Suzuki.Maruti Suzuki currently offers a wide range of 16 passenger vehicle models in India. It is the largest car maker with over 45 per cent share in India’s passenger vehicle market.

Starting with the handing over to the first Maruti 800 to the first customer in December 1983, the Company produced the First Millionth car in 1994. The cumulative production reached Two Million in 1997. The next big landmark of Five Million was reached in April 2005, almost 22 years after the first car was rolled out.

The present product portfolio of the Company includes compact cars Maruti 800, world’s largest selling Alto, Alto K10, Estilo, WagonR, Ritz, A star and Swift, MPV Omni and Eeco, sedans Swift DZire and SX4 and SUV Gypsy. The Company also imports Grand Vitara and premium luxury sport sedan Suzuki Kizashi, from Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan. Maruti Suzuki range of models is available with petrol, diesel, CNG and LPG fuel options. With over 900 sales outlets and 2900 service workshops, Maruti Suzuki has the largest sales and service network in India. It is the sole base for producing diesel engines and the world strategic export model, A star for Suzuki Motor Corporation, globally.

With two manufacturing facilities and a combined manufacturing capacity of 10 lakh (1 million) cars a year, Maruti Suzuki currently produces over 12 lakh (1.2 million) units per annum. The Company is setting up two new plants which will bring in an additional annual capacity of 500,000 (0.5 million) units. Once these new facilities are in place by 2013, the Company will have a capacity to manufacture over 17 lakh (1.7 million) units annually. The Company is also setting up an R&D facility, Suzuki’s largest R&D centre outside Japan. The Maruti Suzuki’s R&D teams are working collaboratively with Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan for designing cars for the global markets.

Maruti Suzuki’s revenue has grown consistently over the years. During 2009-10, Maruti Suzuki posted revenue of Rs. 301,197 million. The revenue was Rs. 203, 583 million in 2008-09, up from Rs. 178,603 million in 2007-08.

Fiat Linea at Lakme Fashion Week

Fiat made an emphatic style statement as the exclusive automobile partner of the Lakme Fashion Week. Ace Designer Little Shilpa stylized Fiat Linea with sparkling embellishments that perfectly complimented its association with the fashion extravaganza, The Lakme Fashion Week. Fashionistas and style-czars were dazzled by the glamorous showcasing of the stunning Fiat Linea.

Fiat’s association with Little Shilpa to dress up the Fiat Linea as the show car underpins its commitment to redefining luxury and performance. Akin to the striking Fiat Linea, leading fashion designer Little Shilpa is known for redefining fashion precincts, setting unprecedented trends and having a futuristic approach to style.

The Fiat Linea redefines luxury with its classy exterior, plush interior, and advanced technology. The car offers a perfect blend of sophisticated style, guaranteed performance, class leading comfort, and all-in-all an outstanding ride. Its association with Lakme Fashion Week appropriates this social stature along with reinforcing its position in the lifestyle segment.

Speaking on the association, Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, President & CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Ltd. said, “Our collaboration with Lakme Fashion Week as the exclusive automobile partner offers us an ideal platform to showcase the avant-garde automotive design and splendor of the Fiat Linea. The quintessence of this association emphasizes our deep commitment to continually setting new benchmarks by creating luxurious products for people with superior demands. We are happy that India’s leading accessory stylist Little Shilpa has elegantly reinvented the stunning Linea further enhancing the oomph factor of the car and making it the true show stopper of the fashion week”

Little Shilpa added, “I feel very privileged to be associated with Fiat. The Linea’s sleek silhouette, sophisticated contours and unique style is hugely inspiring for creative minds. With increasing Fiat Linea’s fashion quotient as the brief, I decided on the usage of the shimmering crystals in my design for the Fiat Linea, accentuating its beauty further”

Ferrari Cars in India Coming Soon via Shreyans Group

The Shreyans Group has officially been appointed as importer for Ferrari in India. The first Ferrari dealership will open its doors in New Delhi in the upcoming spring, and a second one is scheduled to open in Mumbai in the second half of 2011. The Shreyans Group will setup an independent Ferrari India office with Ferrari experienced professionals to manage the upcoming dealer network.

"We are proud to announce the partnership with Ferrari today. This brand represents for us the epitome of success and we are proud to partner with one of the world's most desired brand. We will establish a highly qualified network of Ferrari dealers across India to cater to the discerning needs of our customer" said Ashish Chordia, Chairman of Shreyans Group.

The range of Ferrari which will be sold in the Indian market includes the 8 cylinders Ferrari California and 458 Italia, and the 12 cylinders 599GTB Fiorano, joined by the FF, the latest model launched by Ferrari, presented in these days at the Geneva Motor Show. The first dealership in New Delhi will carry the Ferrari Corporate Identity with elegant, timeless and authentic design and a personalization area to support the client in choosing the many options to uniquely configure their new Ferrari. It will also be sided by the official Ferrari Service, and their combination will guarantee a top-level experience enhanced by the customer best in class service.

The Shreyans Group has played significant role in transforming luxury retail in India. The luxury conglomerate distributes and retails luxury products including but not limited to: cars, yachts, super bikes, fashion articles, jewelry, etc. From the inception of the business, the management has had a very clear vision: to offer the highest quality products and after sales service, providing customers with an unprecedented buying experience. After several successful years, the group now retails and distributes some of the world's most prestigious brands.

Volvo S60 Petrol & Diesel Launched in India; Price Starts @ Rs. 27 lakhs

- Volvo Auto India presents a naughty indulgence – The All New ‘Volvo S60’

- Launches Volvo S60 Petrol (T6 AWD) and Volvo S60 Diesel variant (D5)

- Competitively priced starting from Rs. 27 lakhs (ex-showroom Mumbai without octroi & Delhi)

Volvo Auto India today successfully delivered upon its promise of launching Volvo S60 in the first quarter of 2011. The company has beefed up its sedan offering in India by introducing a car sportier and more distinct than any previous Volvo. With head-turning design, envious technology, and a fascinating array of innovative safety features – Volvo S60 is all set to re-define the driving dynamics for the discerning car buyers.

The premium sedan will be available in both petrol and diesel variants – T6 AWD Petrol with 304 hp and 440 Nm (most powerful engine in its segment) and D5 Diesel with 205 hp and 420 Nm. In addition to being competitively priced, Volvo S60 will offer unique features such as World’s first ‘Pedestrian Detection’ with full auto brake, Advanced Control with Torque Vectoring, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Laser Assisted Automatic Braking – City Safety, Turn with steering lights (Active Bending Lights) among others.

Commenting at the launch of Volvo S60, Mr. Göran Larsson, President, Volvo Cars Malaysia, said, “I am extremely delighted to be present here today for the launch of our latest premium sedan offering for the Indian market. This comes at the back of the global launch of the S60 as recent as in Q3, 2010. Volvo S60 has been sculpted to move you and your senses. It is without doubt the most dynamic car model Volvo has ever presented – and its Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is a groundbreaking safety feature.”

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Paul de Voijs, Managing Director, Volvo Auto India, said, “Safety, Scandinavian design and environmental consideration are all part and parcel of the Volvo brand. With the all-new Volvo S60, a new dimension is now being revealed – The Naughty Volvo. The aim is for driving pleasure, world-class design and innovative safety to attract more customers to the Volvo brand.”

“Words alone cannot do justice to the driving properties this sedan embodies. You simply have to drive the car to understand what it’s about”, further added Mr. de Voijs.

Competitively priced starting from Rs. 27 lakhs (Ex-Showroom, Mumbai without octroi and Delhi), the Volvo S60 will be retailed through Volvo’s dealerships across the country starting March 2011.

Volvo S60 Price in India (Ex-Showroom Mumbai Price)

Volvo S60, D5 Kinetic Price - Rs. 27 lakhs

Volvo S60, D5 Summum Price - Rs. 32 lakhs

Volvo S60, T6 Summum Price - Rs. 34 lakhs

Globally Volvo S60 has been a great success and has won over 34 coveted awards including – Golden Klaxon in ‘Technological Breakthrough’ category, Russia, FuturAuto Award for Pedestrian Safety, Belgium, Scottish Executive Car of the Year’ award 2010, Car of the year 2011, Norway, Car of the Year 2011, Greece, Sports Car of the Year 2010, Russia, The Best Driving-Dynamic Luxury Sedan, China, Fashion-leading Car, China, United States Car of the Year, UK Best Executive diesel for D5, Canada Best New Sports Sedan among others.

INNOVATIVE & CLASS – LEADING TECHNOLOGY

Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake – a world’s first – UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT

Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is a groundbreaking technological solution. It can detect pedestrians in front of the car, warn the driver and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time. Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake can avoid a collision with a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if the driver does not react in time

Advanced Stability Control Engine Drag Control and Cornering Torque Control (Torque Vectoring) – UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT

The S60 is the first sedan model in the market with Advanced Stability Control. With a new roll angle sensor, it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. Advanced Stability Control is a great asset in dynamic driving involving considerable lateral forces, thus improving handling and rapid avoidance manoeuvres

Collision Warning with Full Automatic Braking alerts the driver if the distance to a vehicle ahead suddenly decreases. This system gives the driver a fair chance to mitigate a collision. It can however prevent a collision for speeds upto 35kmph – UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT (standard for the Summum versions)

Adaptive Cruise Control with Cue Assist also in slow queues – which helps the driver to maintain a safe distance with the vehicle in front. This marvelous cruise control technology works at speed from 0-200 kmph– UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT (standard for the Summum versions)

A range of other features of Volvo S60

Laser Assisted Automatic braking - City Safety, a world’s first standard fitted collision avoidance technology – UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT

Turn with Steering lights (Active Bending Lights) – UNIQUE IN ITS SEGMENT

Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)

Advanced braking technologies – Adaptive Brake Lights, Ready Alert brakes; Hydraulic brake assist; ABS with Electronic brake force distribution

Protective Advanced safety technologies – Side Impact Protection system (SIPS); Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS); Roll-over Protection System (ROPS); 2-stage airbags; Seatbelt pre-tentioners; Inflatable Curtain (IC); Side Airbags

AWD standard for the T6 engine

LED technology carves out a distinctive S60 profile in the dark

OPTIONAL FEATURES

FOUR-C available on all variants – All variants of the new S60 can be specified with the advanced, self-adjusting FOUR-C active chassis

Other Options: Driver Alert Control is a unique technology to detect and alert tired and distracted drivers

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) helps detect vehicles in the offset rear blind spot on both sides of the SUV

Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the SUV runs across the lane markers without the turn indicator being used

Park Assist Camera – both rear and front Front camera provides a full view, a unique for the car industry

PROMISE OF A GREAT DRIVE

Volvo S60 Powerful T6 Petrol

The T6 petrol engine has a displacement of 3.0 litres and to pump out 304 hp and no less than 440 Nm of torque. The engine’s power is delivered to the wheels via Volvo’s second-generation six-speed automatic Geartronic transmission

Volvo S60 Twin-turbo D5 Diesel

The D5 high-performance engine with twin turbo produces 205 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. With the latest Twin Turbo and Peizo high-pressure technology, the inspiring five-cylinder state -of-art will be high on performance and low on fuel consumption

Particulars

Acceleration 0 – 100 kmph

T6 Petrol - 6.5 Seconds

D5 Diesel - 8.1 Seconds

Fuel Efficiency (combined)

T6 Petrol - 9.8 kmpl

D5 Diesel - 14.1 kmpl

CO2

T6 Petrol - 243 g/km

D5 Diesel - 189 g/km

SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN AT ITS BEST

Volvo’s design language has undergone dramatic change over the past decade – without compromising in any way on the core values that have made the brand one of the strongest in the automotive world. The all-new S60 is sportier and more dynamic than any previous Volvo. But it is still an unmistakeable representative of Scandinavian design at its best. Flowing organic shapes go hand in hand with user-friendly functionality – as well as a car aiming to be the safest in the world

EXCLUSIVE QUALITY INSIDE

Volvo’s designers obtained their inspiration from the racing track as they pursued the uncompromising sportiness inside the all-new S60. The graphic character of the racing track is clearly apparent in the dashboard and in the doors. The instruments and centre stack are angled towards the driver to create a sensation of focus and control. The new dynamic three-spoke steering wheel and new sports seats with extra side supports are standard

New infotainment system – ‘SENSUS’

The S60 has an all-new infotainment system where information from the audio unit, navigation system, mobile phone and other functions is presented on a 7-inch colour screen in the upper part of the centre console. The screen is installed high to make it easy for the drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The driver has access to all infotainment functions via controls and a scroll function in the steering wheel. It also includes Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity. The S60 features a high performance audio with DVD and 8 speakers

Facts about Volvo Auto India:

Volvo Auto India is a luxury car company in India, a gigantic, fast-growing market and one of the most competitive in the world. Volvo established its presence in India just over three years ago and has since then worked intensively to market the Swedish brand. With a corporate office in Gurgaon, Volvo Auto opened its first dealership in March 2008 and currently markets its products through its dealerships in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Kochi and Pune with Ahmedabad and Jaipur in the pipeline. Volvo currently sells its four premium models in India – luxury SUVs Volvo XC90 & XC60 and luxury sedan Volvo S80 & Volvo S60.