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Friday, 29 February 2008
Beware of Fake Cars
Police rounded up a gang of 15 people involved in making fake cars in Rome, Italy. They were involved in making fake blood red Ferrari cars with counterfeit parts and few original parts. They sold the cars at a fraction to the cost of the original. Change the name of the car and country and you can find that it is a very Indian-type crime news. Many garages are known to make cars with some fake and some original parts. They also make fake papers that look real. But if they are selling it at really low prices, one can be sure that it is a car without the manufacturers stamp. When we drive in cars, our complete safety depends on the manufacturing of the car. A glitch in the brakes or engine could prove disastrous to users. People looking for cheap used cars must make sure that the cars are certified by authorized dealers or workshops. Article Submitted by AT Labels: car accessory, Fake car business, Ferrari, Used cars
Toyota should bring in small cars
Toyota has had a long successful run in India since its arrival. I am surprised that even though small cars constitute to a major percentage of the Indian auto market share, Toyota has not ventured into this segment in India. Toyota has a partnership with Daihatsu Motors, which is a leading mini car manufacturer in Japan and Toyota holds 51 percent stakes in this partnership. Toyota’s products have usually been universally accepted. Even the SUV Qualis (which I really thought was a Tin Drum) was in high demand when its production stopped at the Indian plant. Maybe India will get a taste of Japan’s favourite small cars in the near future. After all, Indian narrow roads and crowded streets will make these small cars feel perfectly at home! Article Submitted by KnowAutos Labels: New Car, Small car market in India, SUVs, Toyota
Luxury Cars: Comfort or Confusion?
Get into any modern luxury car and the first thing that catches the eye is the array of buttons on the dash. Even the steering wheel gets paddle shifters and audio controls. Added to this, there are cars with a GPS facility and an LCD screen.
Get into any Merc or BMW and be amazed by the number of functions being packed into the small space. It will require the genius of a race car driver or a professional mechanic to actually understand the functions of all the buttons. A person will need to study the car manual for over a week to understand the various technological marvels that a luxury car comes with. Only the cockpit alone of a luxury car like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Mercedes S-Class could cost up to $20,000 to $30,000 (Rs. 8 to 12 Lakh). The question, however, is why so many gadgets when most of these luxury cars are driven by chauffeurs? Wouldn’t it be better to concentrate more on the rear seat comforts of a luxury car? Maybe luxury car makers should concentrate more on rear comfort and less on cockpit confusion! Labels: Audi, BMW, car accessory, GPS, LCD screen, luxury cars
Online booking for Nano
Online booking for cars is, surprisingly, a new revolution in Indian car retailing. A grapevine has it that Tata has plans to accept bookings for its upcoming hot car Tata Nano through the internet. Tata Motors is also thinking of calling for suggestions from prospective consumers on how to implement this process using the Tata Nano website.
The website already provides online customization of the world’s cheapest car. If this move comes through, Tata will start a new chapter in the auto dealership industry in India. One may no longer have to go to a dealer and struggle to get the information required. Online booking will indeed be a new beginning in the right direction. Labels: Car sales, cheap cars, online booking, tata nano
Thursday, 28 February 2008
New Honda Accord will trot in this summer
This summer you can witness some heat in the D+ mid-size car segment. Honda is going to launch the new Honda Accord car this summer. Accord is an impressive car with great driving dynamics and majestic interiors. Now, it’s going to become even better. The current Accord has some unique car features like dual-zone automatic climate control, plush leather seats, wood inserts on the steering wheel and doors, and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer system. The sophistication of the engine adds more punch to the performance. Don’t forget... It also has a powerful V6 engine variant. It would be great to see the current attractiveness retained in the new car. Labels: honda accord, mid size segment, new cars
Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm Rally is going to start soon
The car enthusiasts’ sporting season seems to have just started this year. The Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm Rally 2008 will kick off on March 15. The event is going to be pretty exciting as it’s going to be one of the biggest car rallies to be ever held in the country. The rally is a pure test of nerves for the rally participants who will have to brave the scorching heat and the desert storms. The participating cars will also be pushed to the limit. But more than car performance, the rally will test the driving skills of drivers. The event will be kicked off at New Delhi from where it will not only cover dry deserts but also scenic roads at Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Khimser and Jaipur. This car rally is really something to look forward to.Labels: car racing, car rally, Maruti, Maruti Suzuki
Car exhaust fumes are big health hazards
I read recently that the fumes from a car’s exhaust could trigger heart disease and increase the risk of strokes. That has got me worried about the scene here with Indian cars.
I know that most new cars in India comply with the Bharat stage 3 emission norms, but there are still those few cars that are not in this bracket. The scary ground reality is that pollution levels are soaring beyond average safety levels. Just a small ride through a traffic-congested road in a metro leaves you with a tarred face. And its not just metros that are affected by this! Even smaller cities and towns are now reaching that stage. I think it would be best to have all cars fitted with LPG/CNG kits compulsorily. In that way, it would reduce the dependence on petrol/diesel engines which are more polluting. Submitted by Keep-Your-City-Clean Labels: Car emissions, CNG cars, Environment friendly cars, LPG cars
i10’s mileage scores a perfect 10!
I give the Hyundai i10 a ‘perfect 10’ score when it comes to mileage. It gives 16 kmpl even with the AC on. It’s impressive because other small cars like Maruti WagonR and Hyundai Santro Xing manage to give just 15-16 kmpl without even having the AC on. Looks like Hyundai has planned ahead for the hot summer in India with this new car. I think this could be a good selling point for the car in the coming few months. I also find that the car has just the right comfort that one would expect for its segment. It also comes in some magnificent colours that only Hyundai offers. It’s a car that one can take on enjoyable long drives without worrying too much about re-fuelling.
Submitted by Jaggesh Labels: Car market competition, Fuel economy, Hyundai, small cars
Wednesday, 27 February 2008
Verna Lights are a Hazard!
Hyundai Verna headlights are very dim for driving on any road. It is so dull that I nearly collided with a stationary mini truck while driving my friend’s Verna to my residence two days back. I feel that the Verna, though a beautiful car with good driving dynamics, has paid little attention to headlights, which are the best safety devices in a car. In India, when people and small vehicles keep crossing your path it is important that the headlight highlights the path ahead of you properly so that collision is avoided, but a dim headlight compounds the problem. I am surprised that an international company like Hyundai has paid little attention to such regular details.
I recommend that whoever brings home a Verna, change the headlight to a better one as soon as possible. It is a necessity. From KL Poonawala Labels: car safety, Hyundai, safety devices, Verna
Spark has No Spark of Imagination
The other day I chanced to see a Chevy Spark on road. I was taken aback by the car design. From what I had seen in papers and magazines, I had imagined it to be a beautifully designed car. But what I saw was completely different. The whole car looked like it has been designed in a hurry with no attention to aesthetics. The front looks pathetic as the bonnet slides down on an already low platform. The sides of the car are uncomfortably shaped giving it a vague bulgy look. The most awfully designed round shaped taillights seem to be jutting out of the boot. After seeing the car, I have decided that I will never buy this car or recommend it to anybody. I wonder what Chevy was thinking!
Article submitted by BC Labels: Car Design, Chevrolet, Spark
Hummer Hums Right-hand drive Tune
Have you ever wondered why the Cadillac and Hummer models are experiencing such a delay to come to India?
I think it is because they are converting them from left-hand drives to right-hand drives. Among hundreds of countries in the world, there are only 52 right-hand drive countries and India is one among them. Amazing but true! If the country had been using left-hand drives, then these cars would have arrived in India a long time ago. I understand that these cars are very costly and converting them after sales is again a costly business. In addition, no one in India is equipped to make this change in mass scales. It is good news that the companies have decided to do it themselves. I can only hope that this is the only change that these cars see when sold here. Article Submitted by IKnowCars Labels: Auto market competition, Cadillac, Hummer, new cars
Ferrari may come to India
All speed enthusiasts take note - Ferrari is eager to hit Indian roads. This announcement was made by the PRO office of Ferrari recently. But don’t jump from your seats, this could mean another 3-5 years. It is like a dream come true to finally see a Ferrari on Indian roads. This brand has been like a jewel in a crown for Italian sports cars enthusiasts and it is time that the car was brought to India, the land of the Maharajah’s. The Ferrari’s arrival is like an action moving waiting to happen, provided the bullock carts, old trucks, and pedestrians are cleared from the highways. It is not good to associate a fine machine like the Ferrari with accidents that are only too keen to happen. Labels: Ferrari, New Car, Sports car
Tuesday, 26 February 2008
Nano is bringing down prices of second hand cars
I have good news for all car lovers. You can now take home used cars like Maruti 800 or Hyundai Santro at very competitive prices. The prices have been dropping since the one lakh car Tata Nano was unveiled in January. Now that the news of the launch of this small car in October is official, i can guarantee you that the prices of second hand cars will come down even further.
When I went to purchase a used car in November last year, I was told that a 2002 Maruti 800 was available for Rs. 1.1 lakh. I was surprised to find out that the same car was selling for Rs. 85,000 in January. This is when I noticed the effect that Nano was having. I have been following this trend closely since then and want to let all of you know of this as well. Article submitted by Sanjeev K. (Bangalore) Labels: One Lakh Car, small cars, Used car market in India
Finance Ministry has congratulated Maruti
Maruti never seems to be tired of gushing. First it was the record sale of one million Maruti Alto cars. Then, the achievement of exporting half a million cars from India. Now read this. Maruti has received an award from the finance ministry for paying a huge excise duty of nearly Rs. 2,500 Crore in the current fiscal up to January. And its still not over, there are two more months to go before the end of the financial year. Looks like Maruti is having a great time at the moment! Labels: Car sales, Excise duty, Maruti
Hyundai is Tops
In JD Power’s list of car manufacturers based on customer satisfaction for the year 2007, Honda, Hyundai and Tata Motors have hit bottom. It’s totally unbelievable that they have dropped to the end of the list on the sales satisfaction index. Shockingly, Hyundai has lost the most points and dropped to the eighth position from last year’s third position.
I find that Hyundai has good after-sales service and I’m sure they have very happy customers. Their small cars are also very decent. I don’t think the customer satisfaction list is accurate. Article submitted by Gaja Labels: Auto market competition, Car sales, Honda, small cars
Blink and you will miss the Nano
I recently came across news that Tata Motors will be able to manufacture 4000 to 5000 Nano cars every month. I find the number really pitiable compared to the hype it has generated. It seems that it will be able to reach a bigger production capacity of 18,000 to 20,000 cars per month only 4-5 months after start of production. With this minimal number, I think the Nano will be gone within a few seconds of appearing in the market. Being a Nano aspirant myself, I haven’t seen such a mad rush for a vehicle since the launch of Bajaj scooters in India in the 80s. Article submitted by Ravi Labels: Car manufacturing, Car sales, small cars, Tata Motors
Maruti adds yet another feather in its cap
Maruti’s achievements don’t seem to be so surprising anymore. They seem to be setting records over and over again. After being in India for more than 20 years, they have set another record. First, it was news of one million Maruti Alto cars being sold till date. Now, for the first time in India, a car manufacturer has exported half a million cars. Maruti is truly adding a lot of feathers to its cap with such achievements. Labels: achievement, Car sales, Maruti, Maruti Alto, record
Fiat Palio will come with a cleaner engine
Fiat enthusiasts now have now another option on the Palio Stile. Fiat is launching a 1.3 liter multi-jet diesel engine to power the Palio. The engine is new technology developed by Fiat and they are planning to use it in almost all the models that they plan to launch in India soon. Maruti too wants to have this engine on a few of their models. The new Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel already has a multi-jet diesel engine. Labels: car engine, Fiat, maruti swift diesel
Renault is dragging its feet on the small car issue?
Renault, the French car manufacturer who brought out the car Logan along with Mahindra, and Nissan are holding a series of talks with Bajaj Auto on creating an ultra-cheap car like the Tata Nano. That’s all I keep hearing these days.
Renault keeps saying that it’s interested in a joint venture with Bajaj for creating a small car that will compete with Tata’s Nano. The news of this alliance has been just news for a long time now. Doesn’t look like the talks are getting anywhere. Bajaj Auto had displayed their one-lakh concept car at the Delhi auto expo in January but it’s not known if anything happened after that.
Article submitted by Frenchbeard Labels: Bajaj, Mahindra, One Lakh Car, Renault, tata nano
IPL and Cars: can they be far?
It seems that the Indian Premier League (IPL) fever is catching up in the auto sector too. After some famous Bollywood stars and prominent Indian businessmen forayed into the IPL, it has become as popular as English football. Hero Honda signed a partnership in the Indian Premier League looking to promote their bikes heavily over the next couple of years. Maybe some car manufacturer will also consider this opportunity and come forward soon. Maruti or Hyundai are always on TV so they might be most interested in this. But then, maybe Mercedes and BMW will be interested.
Article submitted by Crickraxyjunk Labels: BMW, Car advertisement, Cricket, Hyundai, Maruti, Mercedes-Benz
Friday, 22 February 2008
Nano bookings are long
I dropped by a Tata dealership recently to see if I can book a Tata Nano. To my surprise, I found that the car has been booked all the way till 2010 and then I wondered ‘Mera Number Kab Ayega’? However, it’s good news that the Nano is finally rolling out in October or early November. It’s officially announced. I’ve been waiting for that car for a very long time now. When critics said that the car would be delayed till 2009 or further, I had become a little apprehensive and had almost convinced myself that the car would never hit the market. Though, I’m forced to wait in a long queue for the car, I do have this thing to look forward to. Until then I’ll just continue to drive my old Maruti 800. Submitted by LongNanoQueue Labels: Maruti 800, Tata, Tata Motors, tata nano
DCE has created a 170 km green car
A recent piece of news reported that students at Delhi College of Engineering have made a car that can drive up to 170 km on just one litre of petrol. Sounds like a miracle because achieving that kind of fuel efficiency is still a distant dream for even the best car manufacturers. Perhaps this is why most of them have turned to hybrid cars. The ‘170 km’ car costs just Rs. 3.5 lakh to build and can seat only a single person at a time. Looks like universities and their students are managing to create what many qualified car engineers have been unable to achieve. Proper training and financial support will work wonders for this niche pool of talent. Labels: hybrid cars, Small Car, student projects, universities
Autojumble - Vintage car exhibition
It was an auto expo of a different kind in New Delhi recently. It was the 1st carnival of vintage cars, bikes, memorabilia, and auto accessories. Hordes of vintage car lovers rushed to the event called ‘Autojumble’. Exotic vintage cars belonging to erstwhile rajas and maharajas of Awadh, Gwalior, Jaipur, Udaipur and various other places were on exhibit. There was a fine display of automotive fine arts, sports and games for children. There was even a funny competition called “guess the component” where both children and adults participated with great enthusiasm. A group played live music using auto parts as instruments. Submitted by AutoJumbo Labels: Auto expo, car show, competitions, games, Vintage cars
College campuses are a good future car market
I have been reading stuff on Carazoo for quite some time now and I find the portal really interesting. As a college student, I would get into conversations on how cars could be the next fad for students like bikes are these days. Like it was cycles in the old days, now everyone rides to college on bikes. We believed a day would come soon when students could match the colours of their cars to their clothes. With cars like the one-lakh Tata Nano which is about to enter the new car market soon, that day might be just around the corner. Article Submitted by AK
Labels: Carazoo, College students, Tata, tata nano
Thursday, 21 February 2008
Free petrol for one new Tata car
Car manufacturers are coming up with new ideas to attract new buyers. Now, can you imagine a car manufacturer offering free petrol as an incentive? But that is exactly what Tata Motors had announced. The company has tied up with Hindustan Petroleum to offer free fuel worth upto Rs. 20,000 to all new buyers of Tata Indica and selected models of Indigo and Fiat cars. But this offer is limited only to people living in Delhi and the surrounding region. I never thought such a day would dawn in India when petrol is offered free with every car buy. Sounds like a line from an advertisement, but it’s a fact. I wish the same scheme was extended to Lucknow too. From Tata Roadie Labels: Buy Car, car incentive, Fiat, New Car, Petrol, Tata
Toyota has opened a used car outlet in Delhi
Now-a-days, there’s a great demand for used cars in India. It’s difficult to figure out the exact reason for this. It’s most probably because cars have now become very affordable to most middle class families. Small cars like Maruti 800, Chevrolet Spark, and Santro Xing are available at very attractive prices. To be able to buy new cars and better cars, people are selling off their old cars without giving much thought to the actual re-sale value of the car. This has led to a rise in the used car business. It has turned out to be very lucrative business.
Many car manufacturers are cashing in on this trend. Maruti came out with their TrueValue service some time back. Hyundai called their business “Hyundai Exchange”. Now, Toyota has started its own used car outlet in New Delhi. They are calling it “U Trust”. They are looking forwarding to helping people pick-up good used cars at minimal prices and are also providing financing options as a value-added service. Labels: Hyundai, Maruti, new cars, old cars, second hand cars, Toyota, Used cars
Hyundai has opened a second car plant in India
Every day, competition between car manufacturers to get a hold on the small car segment seems to be increasing. Small cars are obviously the most popular type of cars in India these days. They are easy to maneuver in traffic, easy to park and also easy to maintain. So, every car manufacturer is concentrating more on the small car business.
Hyundai Motors just opened their new car plant at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu where they already have a plant. Their small cars Getz Prime, Santro Xing and i10 have been a success in the country. Without such success, no company would dare to start a second plant at the same place. Labels: Car manufacturing, car plant, Hyundai, small cars
Suzuki's small car will have a 660cc engine
A lot of changes have been taking place in the small car segment since Tata Motors unveiled their Rs. 1 lakh car ‘Nano’ at the auto expo. It has encouraged many car manufacturers to start their own small cars on the lines of the Nano. Previously, I had read about Bajaj, Mahindra, Nissan and Renault planning to bring out cars similar to the Nano. Now, I just found out that Suzuki had prepared ground and had taken up a small car project called ‘A’ long before the launch of the Nano at the expo.
It’s a big challenge for car manufacturers to fit their small cars with efficient engines and good standard equipment. It seems to me that many car manufacturers still have no clear idea as to what type of engine would suit their ultra-cheap small car. I know that Suzuki’s small car will be equipped with a 660 cc engine and i believe Suzuki is the first to finalise an engine for the small car project.
Article Submitted by Murali Labels: Nano, One Lakh Car, Small Car, Suzuki, Tata, Ultra cheap cars
Wednesday, 20 February 2008
Hot Wheels Hottest Car for the Coolest People!
Hey people of the 80 and 90’s, remember the ‘Hot Wheels’ toy cars? Hot Wheels is celebrating its 40 th anniversary. To make it special Hot Wheels assigned a jeweller from Beverly Hills to make a special car. The car now costs $140,000. It is encrusted with diamonds and weighs 23 karats. This car was cast in 18 carat white gold and it is set in brilliant blue diamonds mimicking the Hot Wheels Spectra Flame blue paint.
Under the hood, the engine is adorned with additional micro-pave set in white and black diamonds. The underbelly which carries the logo has been set in white and black diamonds as well. Red rubies are the taillights. To recreate the signature red line wheels, black diamonds with red enamel have been used.
The car will be presented in a special case and is embedded with 40 white diamonds signifying each anniversary. It will be auctioned sometime in the last quarter of 2008. These are times when I wish I was born with a golden spoon that would get me this diamond car! Being Hot (Wheels) is still so Cool!
Article Submitted by GetMeHotWheelsLabels: Anniversary, Car Design, Car toys
Why are car companies coming to India?
The mind always wonders about progress. The huge hype about foreign car makers making a beeline to India along with well-known component makers is a progress that definitely entices a person to think of the reasons. Is it India’s greatness or another countries downfall?
In the aftermath of the US economy decline, the Bloomberg report (on climate and green house gases) stated reasons for the sudden affection of Car manufacturers towards China and India. China is one of the cheapest places for manufacturing any commodity in the world and it is also becoming the second largest car market in the world. However, China carries risks of a slow down similar to the US market recession. The already under-performing auto sector fears that if China goes down, they are doomed to see history repeat itself.
India, on the other hand, as a marketing hub can sustain decent sales figures and maintain profit margins for a long time to come. So, the progress India sees is not due to any love that the foreign market suddenly has for India, but rather fear that brings two options: Change and expand or Die a slow death. Labels: Car market, China, Foreign cars, India
Tara Tiny and Tata Nano fight for Re 1
I was surprised that Tara Tiny has come to rival the Tata Nano. Tiny is priced at Rs 99,999. It is just Re One less than the Nano showroom price. I think it is hilarious. We may soon just have to go to the supermarket to buy cars, instead of showrooms! Get me some bhindi and cauliflower and a Nano/Tiny on the way back!!! I think Tara would have earned some respectability if it had quoted the same price as the Tata Nano or added some extra technology to make it slightly more different than the Nano. It makes cars look so cheap that there is no difference between household groceries and cars. I believe that there should be some kind of understanding between the car manufacturers to quote such prices. Anyway, I’d rather go for Tata that is established than for Tara who may just blink like a Tara for some time and vanish in the galaxy of cars! Article Submitted by Joker
Labels: One Lakh Car, Tata, tata nano, Upcoming Cars
Honda Bring E20 Cars to India
Honda has always been known to be an environment-friendly car manufacturer. With a whole range of hybrids and eco-cars, it is a model car maker. While the Indian government is thinking of making 10 percent ethanol (E10) blends with petrol mandatory to hold in every petrol bunk in India by October, Honda has announced it will come out with its E20 cars by December 2008 if this is the case. The Honda manufacturer stands as a favourite for many in India. Many car manufacturers are struggling to bring in hybrids and many luxury car owners want to stick to petrol guzzling engines, but a little help and nudge from the Indian government will go a long way in the acceptance of Hybrid machines on Indian roads. Article Submitted by SattyLabels: eco-friendly cars, Environment friendly car, Honda, hybrid cars, Upcoming Cars
Tuesday, 19 February 2008
Will Lite see the light of day?
I am, like many of my friends, waiting breathlessly for the Tata Nano. I also was curious about its rival Bajaj Lite. While Nano continues to be in the news everyday, Lite was in the limelight for just a single day when it was unveiled and then it practically vanished.
Lite is light years away from a launch in India. Bajaj Auto was planning to launch the car in collaboration with Renault-Nissan, but the process which was moving ahead slowly now seems to be ending. Renault and Bajaj had jointly initiated a feasibility study of ultra-low-cost cars in India in July 2007. The study is now expected to be completed by March this year.
The newspapers don’t tell me what the result is going to be of this study. I can’t find anything on the net. Where is the Lite? Does anyone have any idea? I would like to get some info on this car – help!
Article Submitted by Curious Swami Labels: Bajaj, cheap cars, Nissan, One Lakh Car, Tata, ultra low cost car
Tata to Strengthen Indian Defenses
After launching the world’s cheapest car for the ‘Aam Aadmi’, Tata Motors now plans to make vehicles for our Indian Army. Tata will display the ‘Light Specialist Vehicle’, a Humvee-like military vehicle that can carry out diverse missions including Special Forces missions for the military.
Indian military currently requires 30,000 to 40,000 such vehicles. Tata Motors should come up with state-of-the-art vehicles for the Indian Defense Forces. Moreover, an Indian company supplying to the Indian defense should remember not to compromise on quality.
Today’s warfare is more technically dependent than ever before. Tata should have a separate defense wing catering to Indian military needs. I hope more Indian companies join hands with Tata Motors to make this country self-reliant in defense. After all there is no dearth of talent in India! Labels: Hummer, Indian army, Indian Defense Forces, Indian Military, Tata Motors
Steel Prices Going Down, Spirits Going Up!
The car manufacturing sectors bewildered by the rising steel prices have now got a breather. The steel prices have been cut by Rs 500 - Rs 1000 per tonne due to the steel minister Ram Vilas Paswan. The roll-back in prices has come into effect from Feb 15.
I think that this will come as good news for car manufacturers in India, not to mention share holders like me in steel. It will also help many more foreign car companies to turn India into their manufacturing hub. Car manufacturers, who have citied rising input costs as a major cause of worry, can now relax for some time.
I hope the steel prices are contained for another few years and excise duty is reduced to encourage production volumes. The car companies, in turn, should pass on these benefits to the consumers and their share holders.
Article Submitted by AK Labels: Car manufacturing, Foreign cars, steel
Alto crosses 1 Million Mark
Maruti achieved another important milestone this week and added a new feather to its cap. The “Let’s Go” car Alto crossed the 1 million production mark this week. The small car has come a long way since its launch 8 years ago. It was first introduced as a better-looking alternative to the famous Maruti 800. The Alto was a huge success and saw better sales compared to the 800.
The car has always been famous with the people because of its easy handling in heavy traffic and parking has never been a worry due to its compact size. The Alto is a great car and all those who have bought it will vouch for the same. Some buyers have formed a permanent connection with this car and still retain their old Alto.
Article Submitted by Sand Dust Labels: Car sales, Maruti, small cars
Monday, 18 February 2008
Petrol/diesel rise is unfair on taxpayers
How much can we bear? Petrol will now cost Rs 2 more and diesel will cost Rs 1 more. Has the government gone crazy to increase petrol and diesel prices when we are already paying so high? Why are the common tax payers being penalized? Now we will have to pay more for commuting to office and back in jams that last a lifetime! The lack of infrastructure is already hurting urban space dwellers. The groceries are costly, house rent is costly, and maintaining a decent lifestyle seems no more affordable. Why has the government taken such a step when oil prices have stabilized in the international market and western countries are actually contemplating a roll back? The rise of oil in India will have a cascading effect on various sectors. Whatever were the government’s intentions, the rise is going to be a big burden on the common person. Honest taxpayers have to bear the brunt of inefficiency by the government in virtually all departments including energy resources. My entire plans of getting a new car and letting go of my used one is now foiled, because I was already on a tight budget. A few more hikes in prices and maintaining a car will become a luxury that only the Maharajas in the past could afford!
Article Submitted by India Labels: car maintenance, Diesel, Government, Petrol, taxes
Nano set to rock the Geneva Auto Show
I was waiting to take part in the Auto Expo, but I missed the opportunity two years back. I enjoyed the recently concluded Auto Expo at New Delhi in Jan. Most people are hardly interest in the auto industry and usually do not bother about the auto expo and other auto-related events, but this time I was thunder-struck to find even a common person talking about the Expo even before the Expo started. Most of the newspapers, TV channels, and car portals started churning out stories on the Expo and gave a wide coverage of the event.
Why so much hype? Simple - the 1-lakh car, Nano. Nano walked away with all the honors when it was introduced at the Expo gearing people to go out of their way to come and see this small wonder in Delhi. I was proud to be a part of such a memorable event.
I am going to take part in the 78th Geneva Auto Show in March and just heard that Tata is going to display the Nano there as well. This will be Tata’s 11th year of participation in the Geneva Auto Show. Nano was born in India and will make its first International debut at this event.
Only BMW, Ferrari, Audi, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, and other global players have been the highlight at Geneva, but this time Nano will leave these foreign car manufacturers gawking at its achievement!
Article Submitted by AutoMeFreakLabels: Auto expo, Auto Show, Foreign cars, media coverage, tata nano
Emission free cars in near future
A group of students are trying what International car companies could not achieve. Their idea may actually work in the near future. A group from Georgia Tech (USA) is working on emission free cars. According to them, emission from cars is captured in the tailpipe and not let out into the atmosphere.
They are working on capturing toxic fumes using fuel processing devices and store carbon monoxide without it being released into the environment. This captured smoke is later processed at petrol stations that later send it to a processing centre, where it can be stored in liquid form.
Global warming rates will come down by half if these guys succeed. Here is saying “All The Best!” from India.
Article Submitted by Rajiv Shukla Labels: Car emissions, Environment friendly car, Global Warming, student projects
BMW launches new 3-series variant
You now have a chance to get your hands on a BMW. The luxury car manufacturer has launched a new diesel variant for the BMW 3 Series line-up as the 320d Highline. It comes with luxurious features like xenon headlights, a glass roof, and light alloy wheels. A premium sound system is also part of an optional package.
It is like BMW is treating Indians with the best of European hospitality. The luxury car buyer can now actually choose from the best features of the world and zoom around on Indian roads. All BMW fans take note of this information to make purchase. Rush to the nearest BMW store or contact BMW online. Labels: BMW, car features, Diesel cars, luxury cars, New variant
Friday, 15 February 2008
Ingenio Turning Ingenious
I have been quite fascinated with Mahindra’s vehicles, because I am using Scorpio for the past two years. I have no complaints so far about its mileage, engine, and performance. I am planning to buy another of Mahindra’s cars – a new multi-utility vehicle called Ingenio. It was supposed to launch in Feb or March this year, but when I went to get some details about the Ingenio, I was told by the dealer that M&M has postponed the launch by a few months. I guess Mahindra and Renault are waiting to make Ingenio a grand success in India after it failed to receive a good response to the Logan. I heard that these guys are restyling its interior and exterior and adding more comfort and safety features. Can’t wait to get my hands on this one! Article Submitted by Raj S Prakash Labels: Car market competition, Ingenio, Mahindra and Mahindra, New launch
Let’s Go in My Alto!
In a recent report I read that the Maruti Alto was going to soon cross the 10 lakh cars mark. I also own an Alto LXi and I must say that its ride quality is good. Don’t go by its looks on the outside. It has more space in the interiors than one without Alto experience can imagine. At one time at least seven of my friends could be seated in the car without any trouble. Of those friends, today at least four of them own the Alto car. Maruti has beaten all expectations by achieving these sales figures. It was skeptical of its success when the egg shaped car like the Santro was launched, but soon the performance stood out. I hope the Alto crosses the two million mark and sets a world record - which I do not think is impossible in India. Article Submitted by Radhakrishnan KR Labels: Car competition, Car sales, Maruti Alto
Car Manufacturers and Indian Government Collide
The stuff inside the secret bag is out? Now the car and two-wheeler manufacturers will reveal data on fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions to the government. Good news indeed! The manufacturing industry has agreed to share the data after a third round of meetings, but a major newspaper today revealed that if the automotive industry is unable to share the data, then the government will find their own ways to recover such data from the market and agencies like the Indian Institute of Petroleum. I am happy to see such firm decisions by Indian government to combat environmental pollution. As they always say, better late than never! Labels: Environment friendly car, Fuel economy, Hybrid technology
J&K Goes for Luxury on Wheels!
It seems that tranquility is coming back in terror stricken Jammu and Kashmir. A Chandigarh-based dealer has reported that at least 8 Mercedes cars were sold last year to J&K residents. It is very rare for car manufacturers to reveal the status of sales in J&K. This means that tourists are making a come back to the state and his will push sales of luxury vehicles. J&K could become the biggest market for luxury cars in India if tourism is revived in the state. This could put the terror stricken population back on track for business and developments.
I hope that these stats remain a reality for a long time to come. Labels: Car sales, Luxury car segment, luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz
India and Mallya go F1
I’m an avid Formula One fan and spend my days watching car racing. When my eyes fell on news stating “red letter day in the history of Indian motorsport”, I felt great! My hearty wishes are with Team Force India and owner Vijay Mallya. He unveiled VJM01, which is expected to have its first run during the next test session to be held in Barcelona.
India’s entry to the world of motorsports is no doubt delayed, but better late than never. Vijay Mallya already rules Indian skies with Kingfisher. A jovial entrepreneur like him is definite to bring success to this unexplored area in India. Labels: Formula One, motorsports, Racing
Tata employs youths from Singur
I have always appreciated Tata for their exemplary social responsibility programmes. I recently came across news that Tata has employed 80 youths from the displaced Singur farm land area into their company. These youths are now being given 15-month training to turn them into multi-skilled workers. They will be given on-the-job training at the Tata Motors facility.
I believe this will give major relief to the West Bengal and Nandigram-Singur farmers protest issue. I am not here to take any sides in the protest. I am just conveying my thoughts over the developments - that is all. Tata should employ more people from the local population. This will help turn the once-poor town into another Jamshedpur.
Article Submitted by VJ Kumar Labels: car jobs, employment, Nano, Tata
Government Promises with No Backbone!
The Prime Minister of India recently told the planning commission to work on a policy that helps cutting fuel emissions in our country. Global warming has already knocked us a blow in the face of a Tsunami. The melting glaciers in the Himalayan mountain range and rising temperatures are also serious matters of concern.
Putting together all these issues, the Indian government seems to be working on a policy to build better transport systems in bigger cities, but the questions I am dying to ask the honourable PM is: Why make a policy without enough infrastructure to support such a plan? Where are the LPG or CNG gas stations in India except one or two cities? Why is the government making it difficult for eco-friendly cars to come to India?
Imported cars are flooding to India and growing as fast as the Indian population. Such policies fall flat without government support to back it up.
Article Submitted by Concerned IndianLabels: CNG cars, eco-friendly cars, Global Warming, Imported cars, LPG cars
Why was the Esteem discontinued?
May be Maruti Suzuki India did not want to discontinue the Esteem after all, but was forced to do so. I recently came across the report that the Bharat Stage III emission norms will come into effect from April 1. This will imply that manufacturing units will have to discontinue production of those cars that do not meet and comply with the emission norms.
The law has not only come down heavily on diesel cars, but also old cars which spewed pollution happily. Diesel cars have high emission levels as compared to petrol cars. Unfortunately Esteem came into this category and the low sales drove the company to consider closing down its production.
My father owns an Esteem and I admire the car for its power. While I understand that such laws are necessary, I don’t like the idea of not having the opportunity to buy a great car like the Esteem. I think Maruti should just change the engine of the car and improve its emission and restart its sales.
Article Submitted by Anand J Labels: Car emissions, Diesel cars, Maruti, Model discountinued
Thursday, 14 February 2008
India on a High – World Take Note!
I recently read a news item concerning the Australian automotive industry but what caught my attention was the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union federal secretary saying that countries like China and India have proactive policies to lure investments that encourage car manufacturers to invest in R&D, coz they know what will be the preferences of cars 10 years later in the future. I am just as glad as an Indian that foreign countries are taking note of India as a growing economic power! Remember the time of economic recession in India? Who had thought of India becoming not just a potential car market but also a car production and export hub! India tops in every car company’s global strategic plans. The leap in the economy only spells of the good times ahead. Article Submitted by Indian NobodyLabels: car export, Car manufacturing, China
Hero Honda Goes French with PSA Peugeot Citroen!
My younger brother was insisting that I get him a two-wheeler. I went to a Hero Honda showroom to buy him a Splendor Plus and I got chatty with a sales person there. He told me that Hero Honda is planning to enter the car industry in India. Apparently they are in talks with the French car major PSA Peugeot Citroen to start manufacturing cars in India. This French car was looking for a good partner to introduce its cars in India and they found Hero Honda as their ideal partner. If everything goes well, Hero Honda will officially declare its plans and probably embark on manufacturing PSA Pegeot Citroen cars sometime in the next year or two. I’m wondering why Hero Honda is suddenly considering entering the car market. Is Hero Honda worried about its fate after the launch of Tata’s Nano? Anyway, it’s difficult to study the minds of businessmen; I only wish these guys success in their new venture. I love my Hero Honda bike and if they think they can make cars, I say go for it Hero! Article submitted by Kishen MalhotraLabels: Bikes, car industry, Car manufacturing, Hero Honda, Peugeot
Tata’s Millionaire Baby!
Indica is truly a people’s car. Recently the Tata Indica’s millionth car was driven out from its Pune plant. The Indica is in great demand among cab drivers as we all know! And with the launch of the diesel version, the sales figure sky rocketed. I drive one and vote for it because of its good power, space, and interior and also acceptable fuel economy. It is one of the best cars suitable for a perfect family of four. Of course, I sort of regretted buying it once the cab driver’s got into the act. Thankfully, the colour of my car is Blue. But now that I hear that Tata has launched a compact Indigo car that looks like a sedan. I’m going in for an exchange. Of course, this time I’m gonna wait and see if this one becomes popular among taxi’s before buying it. Article Submitted by MN
Kill me or ask me to drive in India!
I came across this site recently and decided to contribute to it. I am from Europe and am here on an exchange study tour. I have driven around in some of my friend’s small cars in India and find it queer that the bonnet is placed such that the person driving cannot see what’s right in front of the car. I do not know if I should look at the right of the car or the left, which is quiet impossible to see. I wonder how people drive around on “assumptions”, as my friend puts it. It is amazing that most people in India have mastered this technique. Also flustering is the masses of three-wheel cars and two-wheelers who seem to constantly surround and escort you from the time you start till you reach your destination – absolute chaos! I have decided to stop brooding over these matters and sit blissfully ignorant beside my smart Indian friend who drives like his hair is on fire! Article Submitted by BethLabels: Driving, indian roads, small cars
Wednesday, 13 February 2008
Why are Indians paying so high?
The Volkswagen Passat is priced exorbitantly high in this country. I can’t imagine that people can pay such high prices for cars that are considered ordinary in Europe and US. I own a Lexus, which has far better features and offers a better ride quality. And I come to India to visit my folks and am surprised at the costs! I can actually get very good cars in Europe at a much lesser price than in India. I can’t imagine how it is that Indians are spending such huge amounts on ordinary cars. I hope that they conduct a thorough research before giving out lakhs of rupees for ordinary machines. It is like paying too much for too less. Article submitted by JaiLabels: Car prices in India, Driving imported cars, Imported cars, Volkswagen
New drivers more accident prone?
I recently came across a news report in New York Times on the web which said that Nano drivers, being first-time drivers, will cause more accidents. I strongly object to this view. I am of the opinion that first-time drivers are more careful than the expert drivers. I worked as a teacher in a car training school for some time and found that 95 percent of first-time drivers liked to keep moderate speeds, adhered to traffic rules, and allowed ambulances by when required. Their only drawback was that they were slow. Look at the expert drivers, particularly taxi drivers who are most experienced in street driving. They are most rash and do not care for life or property of others. How can you blame first-time drivers for all accidents? It is a misplaced theory. Cars are inanimate things, but a careless driver can cause accidents – first-time or expert regardless. Article Submitted by Rashmi MurthyLabels: Accidents in India, Driving experience, Nano, New car drivers
Quality should be Priority!
I was happy to read that Indian goods are more agreeable to the western market consumers than Chinese stuff. I hope this extends to cars made in India as well. I went to Malaysia for a trip and my gang of friends had this Toyota Qualis pick us up. I didn’t get a look at the name of the SUV when I was getting in, but the ride was so comfortable and spacious that I looked at the name tag at the back and it said Qualis! This model was NOT like the tin cup we get in India. This made me realize that India is still treated to low-quality products. Indian car manufacturers have received little support from big players before, but the fast growing economy has made foreigners look at Indian companies seriously. Today, it is Mahindra and Tata Motors that are slowly penetrating these foreign markets. I wish that these guys start manufacturing international standard products like Maruti is trying to do and then sell these quality products within India as well. Prices be damned – I want quality for a change! Article submitted by SwamiLabels: Car market competition, Mahindra, Maruti, Quality of car products in India, Tata, Toyota
Lamborghini goes Platinum!
The Lamborghini car is one of the most expensive cars in India and I would guess that it would face no competition in its segment, but that does not keep the Lambo from marketing its brand! American Express has presented an opportunity for its platinum card members to win a Lamborghini Gallardo. The Italian auto manufacturer, Lamborghini is well-known for participating in such type of offers. All platinum card holders are eligible for the competition. They earn one point every time the card is swiped for expenses worth Rs 10,000 or above and win a chance to enter the draw. The card member increases his chance of winning the dream machine by making more purchases and piling his entries for the draw. The competition was launched during Christmas in 2007 and will continue till April 30, 2008. So, all platinum card holders gear up, and swipe. It might just make you an owner of the Lamborghini Gallardo - the ultimate sports car in India! Labels: Car market competition, High-end luxury sports cars, Lamborgini, Marketing strategies
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
Catch the “i”!
When I saw two i10 models displayed in all their splendor at one of Bangalore’s famous shopping malls, the crowd around them told me why it outsmarted the Santro despite them being from the same family. Perhaps, i10 is Hyundai’s greatest creations for the small-car-loving junta. Hyundai brought out this exciting new city-car that is fun-to-drive, affordable, and practical. It also offers you quality and equipment that no other car companies can offer at same the price. What’s best in the car for a city drive is its width, which is exceptionally long compared to its competitors. I talked to friend who bought this small wonder and he said that it was the best decision he has made yet. I am definitely willing to catch the “i”! I’ll put in another blog once I get my Hyundai i10 delivered and have had a go in it! Article submitted by KS MurthyLabels: Hyundai, New i10 model, Popular cars in India, Small Car, Small car market in India
Driving through the new bridges of friendship
I come from an age where cars were considered a luxury and only elites drove them. Now I see youngsters of my family talking so much about cars, I also started flipping through the automotive sections of my daily newspapers and felt good. ‘Brand Britain’ surely sounds like a neo-colonization, but fortunately it only talks of a progressive independent India. It is reverse pressure of what most people term as globalization. The country that ruled us 60 years back is now talking of partnerships, natural bonding in the automotive sector between UK and India. Lord Digby Jones, Trade and Investment Minister of UK, said in a paper that India offers wonderful opportunities to UK companies to find lasting business partnerships. He believes that UK and Indian automotive sectors will form a natural bond due to the common fascination of ingenuity and innovation. Nice to read that once-a-ruler is now humbling itself to find common fascinations. Makes me proud of the long way India has come! Article Submitted by SrivastavaLabels: Growth in Indian auto industry, Joint Venture, UK-based car companies
Cricket to Cars – the Race is On!
Off late the demand for SUVs in India is growing at a fast pace. I can even see women opting for an SUV now – my daughter just got the Mahindra Scorpio. Indian and foreign car makers have come to India with a plethora of SUVs and now the ball is in Sri Lanka’s court. Micro Cars Ltd, a Srilankan car company will be exporting SUVs to India from next year (2009). These are locally assembled in South Korea. The body, mirrors, seats, and tyres and the rubber component are manufactured in Sri Lanka. Though the price of the SUV is not revealed, it is going to be less than that of a directly imported vehicle. Earlier the competition with the Lankans was seen only in cricket and now has moved to the Indian streets. This will be a good exposure for the Indian car market to see what their neighbours can throw at them. Labels: Imported cars, Mahindra, New launch, Scorpio, SUVs, SUVs in India
India’s Pride – Say Hello to F1!
It seems India is making strides in the auto industry and is going to set records globally. I was watching TV with my 8-year-old son after coming home from work. My son suddenly started talking about Mallya and asked me who he is. I was really surprised to hear the name of Mallya from an eight-year-old. I asked him why he wanted to know and he told me that his school friends were talking about Mallya’s race car built in India and he wanted to know what it was all about. I explained about the F1 car that Mallya was developing under the name of Force India. Then, I started switching channels remembering that the unveiling was supposed to happen sometime that day or next. My son and I watched Mallya unveil a sleek, stylish, and very attractive looking race car – the first in India. First the world’s cheapest car and now this. India seems to be coming around! Labels: Force India, Formula One, Global impact of Indian cars, Indian car market
Saturday, 9 February 2008
More Options to Electrify India!
As we all know, the only electric car that is tooting around in India is the Maini REVAi. I have always wanted more options and now my wait seems to be over. I keep up with car news as a hobby and stumbled upon news about some other electric car being brought out by some unknown company called Bavina in Chennai. But before you become cynical about what the car is going to be like, let me remind you that Maini was just as unknown when it first came out! Apparently, it is going to be a 4-door passenger car with an estimated price tag of Rs 2.5 Lakh, which is way less than the Maini 2-door. The launch is supposed to be in April 2008. This newbie will most probably have the options of an AC, a central locking system, and power windows, all within the estimated price. If I want to go electric without having to settle for a frog like REVA, then count me in! Article Submitted by Rajesh PaiLabels: Cars in India, Electric Car, Environment friendly cars, Maini, REVAi
The Scorpio Meets the Hawk!
I just saw the new Scorpio ride by my house with its hawk power and all I could say was wow! It’s like the tall-dark-handsome guy in the neighborhood coming to knock on your door. This new Scorpio 2.2 VLX sports an mHawk engine and the word mHawk is plated in silver on the side. I was looking for an SUV and have been considering the Scorpio for some time now – yes an SUV is no longer just a “guy thing”! I picked up the brochure from a nearby dealer that gives details about the mHawk. It is an aluminium engine that is small, sturdy, and lighter than most and also MORE fuel efficient! And the best part is its price tag – I mean if I put in an LCD screen and the works, it still comes to about Rs 12 Lakh total with taxes and everything. Anyway, I just wanted to know if anyone can tell me whether there is any other SUV option that I can compare this one with. Is there anything else out there? My max budget is Rs. 15 Lakh and not a paisa more. Article Submitted by RTLabels: Mahindra, New technology, Scorpio, SUVs
Friday, 8 February 2008
Toyota Answers My Green Prayers!
I read so many articles about environment pollution due to increasing number of vehicles on Indian roads and like so many others I blamed car manufacturers for not showing any concern towards this grave issue. However, I found myself in the wrong. Very recently, I attended Toyota India’s 10th anniversary celebration attended by high-profile personalities and auto big-wigs. As the function progressed, Katsuaki Watanabe, President of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) in India shared his views. He revealed that Toyota cars have always tried to use eco-friendly engines and that they will have hybrid technology implemented in almost all their cars in the next few years to reduce the pollution levels in India. Toyota wants to harmonize the cycle of Industry with the cycles of nature according to their Global Vision 2020. Today, I am quite relieved to know that there are some car manufacturers like Toyota who are committed and are seriously making efforts to protect our environment. And in my effort to support them; I will be first in-queue when these Hybrid cars are launched. Article Submitted by TK NairLabels: Hybrid eco-friendly cars, Hybrid technology, Hybrids in India, Toyota
General Motors Turns to Green Motors!
You hear about the news that General Motors is launching close to 50 ethanol cars by 2012? Can anyone confirm if this is a rumor? I heard that 11 ethanol-enabled cars will be brought out this year in 2008 and 15 in 2009. I hope that GM considers their launch in India along with its international launches. Pollution levels in urban India are reaching unbearable levels – seen the news lately! Smog and heavy toxins are having a damaging effect on kids’ health. And as far as I can tell, the best solution would be to reduce carbon emissions on roads. My 10 year old son suffers from asthma and all these masks and filters for the mouth and nose don’t help much. Trucks and autos and vans are the government’s responsibility, but atleast we the people of India can do something about our bikes and cars! I support GM and any other manufacturer that will help keep the environment clean. I hope that GM launches these ethanol cars in full scale in India without looking for profit motives as a boon to the next generation. Article Submitted by SwamiLabels: Chevrolet, General Motors, Hybrid technology, Hybrids in India
Thursday, 7 February 2008
A Job Designing Cars of the Future!
I am looking at the newspapers every day and going through all these websites and one thing that keeps popping up at unexpected moments is CARS! Cheap cars and foreign cars and small cars and just more cars! Now, I am a designer by profession, trying to make it big in the fashion world, but I may just steer a different course. I came across this car survey by an audit company that said that the average annual wage of an Indian car designer is now merely close to Rs 3 Lakh per year, but this profession could be the next IT salary wave! US firms pay an average of Rs 28 Lakh per year for an entry-level car designer and UK firms shell out Rs 25 Lakh per year for the same. Calculating with these numbers, it is easy to see that these guys can easily employ 5 to 8 people in India for the salary of ONE person in US or UK. Needless to say these big guys would want to slowly move to India for designing and developing their future cars. The French company, Renault, has already set up base in India and Maruti Suzuki is using Indian engineers to develop their global cars, and GM has recently set up its research lab her as well. Many other companies are set to follow. How cool will a job designing cars be? Labels: Car Design, cheap cars, Renault, small cars
Car Ads Target “Happily Ever After”!
I saw this cool ad recently in an online portal by Hyundai i10 that said ‘start your married life with i10’. I got married a couple of months back and this ad got me to thinking. Hyundai is promoting the i10 as a marriage gift to newly married couples, which looks like a smart way of promoting sales in a country where most people get married between 18 to 30 years of age and have started earning from the age of 21. I mean as soon as I got married, the first thing I wanted to do was get a nice new car! Four of the five recently married colleagues in my office took a loan out and got a car within one to two months after their marriage. So, this definitely looks like a trend that many manufacturers may not have paid attention to. Looks to me like a shift in the promotional tactics of car sales. It is no longer the middle-aged parents driving their families out for holidays, but rather a newly wed couple going off for small vacations to affordable places every weekend! Well I was definitely influenced and from what I have heard the i10 is a great car to have, so I just placed an order and hope to get it soon! Labels: Car sales, Hyundai
Diesel should be Big in Small!!
I recently went to inquire for a diesel small car. To my surprise I found that only the Tata Indica was sold in diesel option while all others had only petrol run engines. All the Maruti and Hyundai small cars like Alto, Zen, Santro, and others have all come with only petrol run cars. Diesel options for some are just being introduced. Why are customers not offered diesel option in small cars when 85 percent of cars sold in India are small cars? It is surprising that car manufacturers have skipped India in their plans when diesel cars give 30 percent higher fuel efficiency (I looked it up in Wiki) and it is important for any working person in India to save on money. Why should only compact sedan car owners and above get an option for diesel cars? It is high time that the small car manufacturers re-think their strategy and come with more cost-effective and fuel efficient technology for small cars. Left with no option, I was forced to buy a petrol car and am worried sick about the havoc the petrol bill will create for me every month!
Article Submitted by Jai Labels: Diesel cars, Petrol cars, Submitted Article
Resale Value for Used Maruti sees Doom!
I recently went to inquire about the sale price of my seven year old Maruti 800. To my surprise I found that the 800 had lost nearly 30 to 40 percent of its value, post the launch of the Nano. The used car dealer said that he could not offer me more because they did not expect a market for 800’s after the launch of this tiny cheap car in Diwali. I was left baffled. I always thought that the 800 will continue to fetch a good resale value. It never occurred to me that a tiny car could throw a spanner in my plans without even having hit the roads. I would advise that those who are looking to sell their old 800’s and Wagon R’s should do so now. Otherwise it could go for a few thousands like the Fiat Padmini’s and Premier’s of the 90’s. Labels: Car sales, Maruti, Used cars
Maruti ultra-cheap small car: is it a rumor?
I recently read that Maruti is planning to come up with a low cost car which will be in competition with Nano. But I also came across news saying that the company denies this news and says it is a rumor. At present they have no plans of making a car that will be priced below the Maruti 800. The company is now concentrating on rolling out strategic models like the A-Star and Splash in India. Their recently launched SX4 and the Grand Vitara are performing extremely well ensuring international standard and style to consumers. If Maruti’s low cost car is just a rumor, then I will definitely be disappointed coz Maruti is one of the most reliable brands with good service. Tata’s Nano must be sighing in relief! Labels: Maruti, Small cars market in India, Tata, Ultra cheap cars
Baleno Tops Used Cars List!
I just checked out this online survey of used car owners, where the sedan type of car gave the best value for money and the winner was Maruti Baleno. The second place was taken by the Maruti Esteem. Is it any wonder that Maruti car has the best resale value!?! The Tata Indigo diesel came in third, but overall most of the diesel cars showed poor performance and were basically a joke! Now, for a person like me, this sort of survey and other research stuff that I have done easily tells me that I should blindly go for a Maruti used car. I mean, after all, Maruti continues to rule the used car market as it does the new cars arena. It also indicates that I should preferably go for a petrol car instead of diesel though gas prices could be a problem. But if I consider the amount I’ll save on servicing a diesel car, it sort of makes up for petrol being the more expensive of the two fuels. Any other stuff that I should consider before going for a used car? Article submitted by DeepakLabels: Maruti, Used car market in India, Used cars
Wednesday, 6 February 2008
Will Verve be our new Fiesta?
Ford showcased the Verve sedan at the Detroit Auto Show and now Verve could be our new Fiesta, which will style the popular Mondeo looks. There is no official news, but it is a probable and definite assumption. However, this could take as long as two years! And with the rapid growth of the auto market in India, 2010 is a long way off! With the SX4 biting fast into the sedan market sales with its bold looks, the Fiesta has taken a hard beating in the last quarter of 2007. The Verve sedan is a well designed concept car with sporty and handsome looks; and classy and modern interiors. I would have shown more interest if it was coming out next month, but I think 2010 is just too far away! Labels: Ford, New launch, New look, Upcoming Cars
Amazing Ambierod!
Everybody knows that Ambierod is inspired by Ambassador, but the similarity stops at its exterior. Did you know that it will come fitted with a menu driven LCD screen, where movies and internet can be accessed with the click of a button, and a camera is fitted instead of the usual side mirrors? The driver gets to see the rear and side view on a display monitor. Hold it, there is more! Since Ambierod is going to be chauffer driven, the rear seat comfort has been given special attention. The rear seat passenger (owner) also gets a foot stool that is fitted in place of a front passenger seat. It was the most expensive car showcased at the recent Auto Expo in Delhi. Ambierod’s designer, Dilip Chabbria, has got Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt to unveil it. Hope that the Ambierod goes on to become the king of road just like the Ambassador. After all, I am still a softy for oldies! Labels: Ambassador, Improved interior features, New Car, New look
Tuesday, 5 February 2008
Luxury cars - The Koolest ones…
The number of luxury cars I see on roads today is way more than what I remember even five years back. With the changing lifestyle and disposable income, owning a luxury car has become a trend among youngsters, who have started earning at a much earlier age compared to their parents (thanks to the BPO industry). I know this because my son changes, or as he likes to call it “upgrades” his car every year!
Earlier most of the sales narrowed to the business class, but now with the growing economy, the appetite for luxury has widened the type of buyers in this section. Also, earlier one car was sufficient for the entire family of four or five people, but now almost every member in the family has a car to drive – I have three (thanks to my son and daughter) for a family of four.
At present Mercedes and BMW rule Indian roads and dreams, but there are other foreign car makers who have started coming into the lime-light with cars that are just as luxurious and cost only half as much (I am of course talking about the Volvo and Volkswagen). In a very short time I guess I will witness a majority of youngsters driving around various brands of luxury cars, each trying to be Kooler than the other! I just hope that with the responsibility of driving comes the responsibility of safety as well.
Article submitted by J.S. Sharma
BMWs more stable market is India, not China!
It definitely rings a bell when the world’s largest luxury car maker, BMW AG found India a more stable market than China. BMWs retail sales in India accounts to a fraction of its sales in the Chinese market, but India is a definite as far as long term sales go, whereas China might soon be an oversaturated market without too much growth potential.
Small cars are already a big hit in India with foreign car makers making India their global production hub, but for a premium car maker to see great business ahead in the Indian market sounds promising - not just for the Indian economy, but also for our future lifestyle. Labels: BMW, China, small cars
Congratulations to Nissan’s new MD & CEO
I am not an avid auto news reader, but today one news topic caught my attention. Apparently, Japanese top car maker, Nissan is planning to reshuffle its Indian top management. Shohei Kimura is named to take over as MD and the CEO of the India Operation of Nissan. Mr. Kimura is already serving the company as a Vice President of India Operations.
Kimura’s International experience and extensive knowledge would definitely come in handy for the Indian market. I know that while the competition is getting tough, most car makers are making sure that the top management is changing hands and being given over to outsiders – like Suzuki. This refreshing move gives me hope that not ALL manufacturers will believe that success can only be delivered by foreigners.
Shohei Kimura, congratulations and wish you luck! Article submitted by AJ Labels: Japanese, Nissan, Submitted Article, Suzuki
We Care turns to They Care!
A month past New Year and business houses in India are yet to come up with their year’s experience as far as finance and sales go. The car makers are faster in giving their feedback on the start of 2008. Almost all the car companies have seen a robust sale this year, compared to the same time last year. Most companies have witnessed a sale growth by more than 40 percent.
The decrease in worries about sales, as most manufacturers tell it, will give them an opportunity to focus on the requirements of customers while providing them with world-class products. Now, I am not just another person buying a car coz I have to, but one that has so many choices that car makers have to keep me pleased with their service even after I buy their car – definitely makes me feel more important and also more cared for!
No more we running around behind them to keep our cars up to snuff, but them running behind us just to make sure we don’t run away with their piece of market share to other competitors! As McDonald’s puts it – I am loving it! Article submitted by Shruti Ghosal Labels: Buy Car, Car sales, Finance, Submitted Article
Children like car adverts
In a recent report it stated that 64 percent of children like watching car commercials on television in India. In fact, these kids are a huge influence on their parents while buying cars. They not only remember the names of manufacturers but also the highlights of the cars as shown in the commercials. I witnessed the same in my own house where my four year old son watches car commercials with great concentration. He can recite 30 car model names in a single breath – even I don’t know so many! I wonder if the next generation is going to be more scholastic in car jargon than other subjects. Cars are surely going to be a major part of India’s future. I just hope this is not going to an adverse effect on my kid? Article submitted by Deepti SLabels: Advertising, Submitted Article, television
Car Modification is the New In-Thing!
Car modifications seem to be a growing business in the country now. The modification business is now worth several crores in India. My first car was a Maruti Esteem, which I modified with bright colors, fancy lights, and bumpers. I spent around Rs 3000 for these modifications. When you can get you car customized to your tastes and when modification can come so cheap, why not try it? I now own a Honda Accord, which is in the garage to add some personal touches. Of course, modifications do not always mean fancy looks. I have a friend who took a used Baleno car and gave it some spunk with a modified engine and it gives me chills to hear it whiz by AND the pick-up and speed is awesome. You have to have original ideas, because cars do have limitations. For example, my Esteem could not be fit with anti-lock brakes, but I chose to use perforated disc brakes that fit – so be considerate to yourself and your cars limitations. Starting with something small like changing the wheels and tyres of your car is always better! Go for it – reveal your personality with the car you drive! Article submitted by Danny Labels: car modification, honda accord, maruti esteem, Submitted Article, wheels and tyres
A Fortune on Royal Rides
Can you believe that one of the Rolls Royce, the most luxurious car among the super-expensive cars, sold 11 cars in India in 2007? I stumbled on this piece of info while looking out for any Classic Cars drive through happening in Delhi. Out of these eleven, ten were RR Phantom with different widths and one was a RR Phantom Drophead Coupe – the one officially coming to India soon. The price? Upwards of Rs. 3 Crores. That’s a lot of money huh? These stats got me to thinking that money is no more a big deal (except for people like me) for more number of people now than the number of people 10 years back. I mean, if I had 3 Crores, I wouldn’t spend it on a car – no matter how cool it is, I would rather spend it on buying a big house and other luxury items! But apparently, all that matters to some people is their social status and even though I might sound cynical of these people, I sure do wish I was one of them! Article submitted by JK Labels: classic cars, luxury cars, Rolls Royce, Submitted Article
Skoda Fabia - A success story or just everyday car sales?
The less than one month old Skoda Fabia has already sold 680 units. Fabia was launched in India at the 9 th Auto Expo, held in New Delhi from January 10 to January 17, 2008. The figures may not surprise someone who is aware of the car market boom in India, but to those of us who have bought cars in the 90’s, this is indeed a surprising development. The car manufacturers in the early 90’s would brightly display the sales figures if it touched 1000 units in several years and there would be fireworks and celebrations!
By every standard Fabia is a new car to India, but it has already caught the imagination of the country. I believe that if the sales figures crossed 1000 by end of Feb, it would not be accompanied by fireworks and bold advertising like earlier, but just be treated as an everyday target that was successfully met. Definitely makes me feel like I’m living in the past!
Article submitted by Joshi Labels: Car sales, New launch, Skoda, Submitted Article
Friday, 1 February 2008
An orchestra performed by car parts!
I never knew that you can convert a car part into a musical instrument. Don’t be amazed, I recently came across news that Ford is exploring with innovative ideas as a part of promotion and that is why they converted the part of the new Ford Focus into musical instruments. Two creative designers from the US were the brains behind this mechanical musical instrument.
They created musical instrument like Door Harp, Clutch Guitar, and Fender Bass using car accessories. The ad campaign will hit viewers by performing a stage show using this unique instrument. Isn’t it a fabulous way of promotion? Can we expect Indian car makers to come up with this kind of promotion? I doubt. Maybe not this much but Indian car makers can definitely come up with creative ideas. I hope they try. Article Submitted by Divya G Labels: car accessory, Car Design, Ford, Promotional campaign
Low Speed, Less Fuel, More Road – Try It!
In a recent newspaper report it was stated that car emissions will be lowest when driven at the speed of 50- 60 km/h. This also helps maintain fuel efficiency. I tried to see if this theory is true or just an urban myth with my Honda City. So I filled my usual amount of gas and made a note of the miles status. The gas lasted me for two days more than usual!
I would advise other car people to also follow this speed limit rule, coz it definitely worked for me. Plus, apparently, this also helps reduce pollution. If you don’t believe me then try it out on your car. I’ll eat my hat if it doesn’t work (of course that is if you can find me!) Article Submitted by Ashish Labels: Fuel economy, Highway speed, Honda City
The Cool gets Cooler – New Merc C-Class
The launch of new Mercedes-Benz C-Class didn’t get much media coverage at last month’s Auto Expo in New Delhi, even though I couldn’t get my eyes off this beauty. Now when mini-car talks have become almost stale, the luxury car is slowly making an appearance in the news. To everyone’s surprise, this entry-level sedan has sold over 200 units during the three weeks since its official launch – one of these beauties is lying in my friend’s garage and I actually got to ride in it! I haven’t ridden a smoother vehicle…it was awesome! I took it to the highway – no vibrations, cool braking, excellent acceleration, and I will run out of adjectives if I try to describe it all. All I can say is ride it to know it! Article Submitted by VJ Labels: Auto expo, Luxury sedan, Mercedes-Benz
Hurrah for Green Cars - Ethanol can get cheaper!
I just read that the oil ministry has decided to give Ethanol a declared goods status, which means that its cost could go down compared to its current cost of Rs 28 per litre. I have been following up the news about the launch of the Hybrid green cars that Honda and Toyota are suppose to launch this year. Naturally, I am an eco-friendly guy and I like the idea of my kids growing up in greener city than what I get to see now!
Ethanol is the favoured fuel for these hybrid green cars and if this policy goes through, then ethanol will become the cheapest fuel for cars. So, like nowadays, Diesel cars cost more than Petrol cars because diesel is cheaper than petrol, similarly these Hybrid cars may be the most expensive of the lot, but the fuel and daily expenditure on the car will be comparatively the least. These green cars keep sounding better and better! Labels: Environment friendly cars, Honda, hybrid cars, Toyota
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