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Wednesday, 6 January 2010
If the sources are to be believed, Fiat India could come out with a hybrid car in India by 2010 end or early 2011 other than the India-specific small car. If the news comes right from the horses’ mouth, we all have every reason to believe it. Rajeev Kapoor, President and CEO of Fiat India said that the hybrid car certainly will be powered by CNG and petrol and also mentioned that Fiat India was also working on an India-specific car but he refused to give out more details. He was speaking to reporters at the ongoing Auto Expo held in New Delhi. Fiat is very optimistic on doubling the sales of its existing models and will be introducing more variants of existing models, but denied any launches of new cars in India. Rajeev Kapoor maintained that "Other than the variants launched today, we will not introduce any new models per se". He also mentioned that Fiat planned to sell about 46,000 units doubling last year’s 23,000 vehicles which were sold. He was quite optimistic that Fiat’s models Grande Punto and Fiat 500 could not pick up sales last year as the models were launched in the end of 2009 but 2010 would be a successful year for them. The company Wednesday unveiled the diesel version of Fiat 500, three variants of Grande Punto and two of the Linea model. Labels: Auto-Expo, Fiat-500, Fiat-Grande-Punto, Fiat-India, Fiat-Linea
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd, the Indian unit of Toyota Motor Corporation on Tuesday unveiled its small concept car, Etios, at the Auto Expo in New Delhi. This will be Toyota’s launch pad for the Indian small car market in the days to come. This global car as Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director of Toyota Kirloskar says will enter the mass volume segment. Toyota had invested about Rs 3,200 crore to set up its second manufacturing facility in Bangalore to bring out the car on roads by early 2011. "With the introduction of the Etios we will enter the mass volume segment. We are looking at a sales volume of 70,000 units in the first year," he said. "After the slowdown, we are now in a difficult situation and we are trying to achieve constant recovery. The Indian market is very important and big for Toyota and it is expected to grow up to four million units by 2015," Toyota Motor Corp Vice Chairman Kazuo Okamoto said on the sidelines of the Auto Expo. The company would launch both hatchback and sedan under the Etios series with 1.2 litres and 1.5 litres petrol engines respectively. Toyota had earlier said that it would start selling its first small car in India by late-2010. Toyota Kirloskar, which is 89 per cent owned by Toyota and the remainder by India's Kirloskar group, currently produces the Innova multipurpose vehicle, the Corolla sedan and the Fortuner SUV at its factory outside Bangalore. It also imports and markets the Land Cruiser and the newly launched Land Cruiser Prado SUVs, as well as the Camry sedan. Labels: Auto-Expo, Land-Cruiser-Prado, New-Car-Launch, Small-Car, Toyota-Etios, Toyota-Kirloskar-Motor
Monday, 4 January 2010
The Auto Expo, which will be flagged off tomorrow, is going to be another big event in the Indian motoring history. This auto fair will be a platform for the car makers to show off their creations. This Auto Show promises much more than car debuts, it will also play host to over two lakh visitors and promises to be bigger and better than before. Maruti Suzuki will display a total of seventeen cars at the 2010 Auto Expo that begins tomorrow. Some of these cars are the Suzuki Kizashi sedan, the R III MPV concept, the Eeco MPV, YR9 small car and the Y3 small car concept to start with. The Kizashi will be the car company’s first attempt to enter the D-segment sedan in India. It will be powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine borrowed from the Grand Vitara, but with more power and a six-speed sequential auto gearbox. The upcoming Eeco is a facelift of the Versa with a Euro-IV 1.2-litre K Series engine. The R III concept will be an all-new MPV to take on the Xylo. The R III will be based on the SX4 platform and will boast a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel and a 1.4-litre K Series engine. The YR9 is the replacement for the Wagon-R, with more comfort and space on the inside and a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The YR3 is Maruti Suzuki’s first indigenous product to be designed, developed and manufactured in India. It is being designed as an 800 replacement. Mahindra and Mahindra will display the new Xylo D2 variant that comes with a 2.5-litre, 95 bhp common-rail diesel engine, the Thar which an off-road lifestyle vehicle, the Bolero concepts and possibly its World SUV concept. Tata Motors will finally let the world get a peek at the Indicruz, Nano Europa and the Prima sedan. Korean Hyundai will buzz in the i10 Electric and the Genesis coupe. The i10 electric will be unveiled at the Expo by none other than Bollywood Badshah Shah Rukh Khan. Toyota will launch its small car, known as the EFC800L. It is based on an all-new platform and will be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol three-cylinder engine and a 1.4-litre diesel engine taken from the Yaris sedan. Toyota will also bring in the Prius hybrid and will also showcase the new Land Cruiser Prado diesel and the i-Real concept. On the other hand, Toyota’s arch rival Honda will drive in its small car concept. The Honda small car will be powered by a new 1.0-litre petrol engine using VTEC technology. Apart from the small car, Honda will showcase the CR-Z hybrid. General Motors will display the Beat, which it has launched in the country today. To add some colour and muscle to the show, the car behemoth will expose its Chevrolet Camaro, the Cruze WTCC, the Chevrolet Volt and the electric version of the Spark. The three-pointed star has unleashed the GL 350 CDI and a new variant of the S-Class, the S500L, in the Indian car market today. Along with these two new cars, Mercedes-Benz will showcase the E-Class Coupe that might be going on sale in 2010 with petrol and diesel engine options. The SLS AMG will also grace the German luxury car maker’s stall. India’s number one luxury car maker BMW will be launching an all-new car that is in a class of one, the 5 Series GT. BMW India will offer both the petrol and diesel variants and only 100 units of the vehicle will be made available in 2010. The other big showcases will be the BMW X1, the BMW X6 M, a 760 Li, BMW’s flagship car along with other BMWs that are currently available in India. Audi will come out with the A7 concept. The other big displays will include a vintage Horch, the Audi R8 and other Audi cars currently on sale in India. Volkswagen is planning to splash the Polo. VW’s Touareg and Beetle, will also share space with the Polo as will the Jetta and Passat. Labels: Auto-Expo, Mahindra, Maruti-Suzuki, Tata-Motors
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
The Delhi Auto Expo is two months away, but fully booked by car makers to display their latest creations.
It has been heard that there is absolutely no space at the Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, the venue for Auto Expo 2010 and it is going to be a Herculean task accommodating new requests. Isn’t it hard to believe? And the more hard-to-believe-fact is that many car makers opted out of the recently held Tokyo Motor Show. Seems like car makers across the globe are vying for Indian wallets.
The Delhi Auto Expo will grace Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche, Renault, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Toyota and Honda apart from Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Ashok Leyland. Moreover, there will be a host of car component makers across the globe. These ancillary suppliers are the unsung heroes who are actually key to India’s reputation in quality and cost-competitiveness.
Auto Expo 2010 is expected to have its own share of surprises. Volkswagen will display the Polo and has booked a hall of over 1,500 square metres. This reflects the German car maker’s interest in India. Tata Motors will take up the largest space of 5,500 square metres and will unveil the much-awaited Xover. Maruti Suzuki has taken 4,700 square metres while Hyundai’s is pretty significant with 2,000 square metres and Mahindra & Mahindra, which is expected to focus on its commercial vehicle range, has booked space for nearly 2,100 square metres. In the same way, Swedish car major Volvo will showcase its buses and trucks through the newly created company with Eicher.
The Auto Expo will commence on January 5th and will go on for a week. This Auto Expo at New Delhi is held every two years and is an important platform for manufacturers to showcase their products to the public. The Tata Nano was the showstopper of the last Auto Expo of 2008. This small wonder caught the fancy of the world and spawned enormous interest in the low-cost car segment.
But, why it is that car makers are making a beeline for India? The growth paradigm for car manufacturers have completely changed and India is now the hottest destination for business. This is because there are many benefits in India. India has a high-quality vendor base which is also cost-effective, leading to globally-competitive pricing. Moreover, the labour charge is less compared to other countries. Labels: Auto-Expo, Delhi-Auto-Expo-2010, Indian-Auto-Expo, Tata-Xover, Volkawagen-Polo
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
The 2010 Auto Expo at New Delhi could see a new entrant from South India. Andhra’s MLR Motors plans to showcase a prototype of its small car at the Expo if everything goes according to the company’s plan. MLR is promoted by former Hyundai Motors President BVR Subbu and is owned by Hyderabad based M Lokeshwar Rao. The company is in talks with the government and private financial companies to start production of the prototype hatch. The company has tied up with a European firm to source engines. MLR Motors acquired a defunct Daewoo plant in Andhra Pradesh for manufacturing the car. It was not revealed which European company is helping MLR with the engines. The yet-to-be-name car is expected to be a hatchback with petrol and diesel variants. The prototype is already developed by the company. If the production models hit the roads, MLR would be the third passenger car company to have no foreign origin others being Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. Apart from them, all other passenger cars in India have their origin in abroad. MLR has no joint venture with any major foreign car manufacturing company so far. However, engines will be sourced from a European company and the car will be built in Inssdia, which is a clear sign of excellent expertise of Indian automobile engineers. Labels: Auto-Expo, MLR Motors, Small Car
Wednesday, 17 December 2008
Tata Motors has already shifted its dream Nano project from West Bengal to Gujarat after experiencing the aftermaths of land issues in Singur. In Sanand, near Ahmedabad, the company has started pre-construction work with an investment of about Rs 2,000 Crore. In Gujarat, Nano is also set to be displayed at the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit 2009 (VGGIS) where a large number of domestic as well as global investors are expected to mark their presence. The decision to showcase the car in the summit may be in response to the lost significance of the world's cheapest car. Yes, the Rs 1 Lakh car was the talk of the industry when Tata announced the concept. Even when the car was displayed in the Delhi Auto Expo for the first time, it was appreciated by many car enthusiasts. But, gradually as the car launch date is continually delaying, Nano is loosing its charm among car consumers. All the consumers who were desperately waiting to buy the car are now moving away from the Nano and fixing their car buying decision on some other car model. Tata may have thought that showcasing the car once again on a huge platform may bring back its lost customers attention and ensures them that the world's cheapest car will roll with a bang on Indian roads. Labels: Auto-Expo, Nano, Tata-Motors
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
A new generation SUV from the house of ICML is gearing up to make its debut in the Indian car market. ICML (International Cars & Motors Ltd.) has designed and manufactured a top-end and sophisticated SUV that was showcased in the 9th Auto Expo in Delhi. In the Auto Show, this SUV had amazingly received an overwhelming response from car experts and car enthusiasts. The model was also successful to generate a lot of curiosity among the target audience, thereby creating a perfect environment for the launch. This new generation SUV is high on style and performance. It is artistically designed with dynamic style, engineering excellence, powerful engine, and attractive adornments. It has everything that is perfect and meets the aspirations of the younger generation. ICML desires to make this high performing and sophisticated SUV a leading player in the SUV segment. And to achieve this goal, the company is working on all possible measures. With high anticipation, the company plans to roll out this car by 2009 in the domestic market. Labels: Auto-Expo, Indian-car-market, SUV
Monday, 1 December 2008
The auto fair season is not very far. Various car fairs showcasing the latest and upcoming models are on its way to enthrall the car fanatics. Mumbai, the city of dreams, is gearing up to host one of the most popular car fairs. Scheduled to begin from January 15, 2009 at the Lokhandwala Ground in Andheri (W), the exhibition will display the lasted and pathbreaking products from all arenas of auto industry including two-wheelers, cars, vans, and bikes. The highlight of the show would be Skoda Superb, which will hit the Indian roads by early 2009. The new Skoda Superb was recently introduced in European markets and has received a good response. Amazingly, the oncoming fair will provide the car a good platform to catch the consumer’s attention prior to its commercial launch in India. The show will also endow a stage to other forthcoming models for public display. Audience like corporate buyers, high-net-worth families, overseas buyers, transport operators, automobile professionals, hospitality, and media & press will make their presence which will further add value to the event. Also, the garden city ‘Bangalore’ is all set to host a largest International auto expo of South India, ‘Bangalore International Automotive Expo 2009’. This event will showcase products of over 500 exhibitors to around 5,000 delegates from south. Automotive components and accessories Industry will also be the attraction of the fair coupled with forums, seminars, and workshops based on the current & future trends in the auto industry. Labels: Auto-Expo, Auto-Industry, Skoda-Cars
Friday, 10 October 2008
Recently, there was an auto expo held in Paris. It was a big auto show but unfortunately Indian companies were not present there. Despite of their absence in the Paris Motor Show, India was still shinning in the event. You know why? The fact remains that this motor show was accentuated with Indian roots. Yes, we simply mean that three global debuts at the event would be exclusively manufactured in India for the global market. The three car models are Hyundai i10, Suzuki’s Alto, and Nissan Pixo. Suzuki Alto and Nissan Pixo are different names of the same car, the proposed Maruti Suzuki A-Star. In Europe the car has made its debut and is expected to roll out on Indian roads by November 2008. Hyundai i20 from the hatchback segment is the extension of Hyundai i-series cars that the company is manufacturing to carve a niche on the global platform. The entry of these cars played a vital role in strengthening the confidence and faith of global car manufacturers in Indian designing, engineering, and manufacturing. Global players were actually amazed to see the wonders driven from India. Labels: Auto-Expo, Hyundai-i10, Maruti-Suzuki-A-Star, Nissan Pixo, Suzuki’s Alto
Friday, 14 March 2008
Every auto fair is big news these days. The New Delhi Auto Expo was huge and set the car industry on a roll. While it was a hit in North India, the ‘Vaahan Yatra’ was just as successful in South India. Now East India is hosting a gala car fair. The one week auto fair will be held in Kolkata at the Salt Lake Stadium from March 16 onwards and you should try and catch this event. It’s no small fair mind you. All the big car manufacturers like Tata Motors, Toyota, Maruti, General Motors, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are attending.
Submitted by AutoFairKolkata Labels: auto fair, Auto-Exhibition, Auto-Expo, Auto-Shows, Car-manufacturers-in-India
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Tata Nano has once again become a show stopper, this time at the ongoing 78th Geneva Motor Show at Geneva in Germany. People are thronging to the Tata Motors’ pavilion. Since the Nano was unveiled at the Auto Expo in New Delhi recently, curiosity about the world’s cheapest car had left people around the world waiting eagerly. At the motor show, there are several expensive cars on display such as the new Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi R8, Toyota iQ and not to forget the Porsches, Ferraris, Mercedes-Benzs and BMWs. For several years these high-tech marvels have allured and captivated people at the auto show but now a cheeky car such as the Nano has stolen the limelight completely. Tata Motors has been participating at the Geneva Motor Show for the past 11 years but has never before seen so many interested spectators. Now, because of the Nano, even famous car manufacturers are queueing up to check out the $2500 car. Tata Motors has been flooded with enquiries about the Nano’s version that they will launch for Europe. Labels: Auto-Expo, Auto-Shows, European, Geneva motor show, Tata Motors, tata nano
Friday, 22 February 2008
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
Monday, 18 February 2008
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-Shows, Foreign cars, media coverage, tata nano
Friday, 1 February 2008
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
Tuesday, 29 January 2008
This desi flavoured blog may help you differentiate between fake and genuine products in the auto market. In the recently concluded auto show, an ‘Asli-Naqli’ stall came up with noble products to increase awareness and provide information to car lovers about fake car and vehicle parts.
The display not only informed visitors about counterfeits in the market, but also helped them learn how to distinguish genuine products from fakes. The ‘Asli-Naqli’ stall had leading component manufacturers participating to create increased awareness against counterfeiting. A study showed that counterfeit auto products account for almost 35 percent of auto products sold in India.
Wake up and know the Asli from the Naqli! Labels: Auto-Expo, public awareness
Friday, 25 January 2008
(Arun Kumar narrates his experience at the opening day of the Auto Expo that happened recently)
My new year can’t get any better than it already has as today I managed to get entry into the first day of the Auto Expo here in Delhi. I’ve been in this freezing city for the past two days and all dinner conversations have been about the Auto Expo. Today being my last day here as I fly home tomorrow evening, I decided to make a few calls and see if there was any way I could be sneaked into this highly exclusive preview day. Well, as luck would have it, friends were able to pull strings. All they said was, just go there and walk past gate no. 7 and see if anyone stops you. If they do, just say press aadmi and you should sail through. My friends were right. I sailed through! First impressions Pragati Maidan is huge! It takes approx. 15 minutes to walk from one place to another. But the Gods were kind to me as I got to witness almost all the launches in the first half of the day. The first launch that I caught [10:30 am] TATA Sumo Grande was kind of significant for me as my interest lies heavily in the utility vehicles segment. Unfortunately there weren’t too many on display today, unless I just couldn’t find all of them in that vast desert of a venue. But coming back to the Sumo Grande, I have to say that it’s a very impressive effort from TATA Motors. I missed the pre-launch hungama as that was for press aadmis only, but drama is not my cup of tea anyway. I got to see the car up close and take a few pictures and that was enough. First impressions it reminded me of the Scorpio from a side angle, but that’s not such a bad thing as it’s a welcome change from the bread box looking Sumo Victa. It’s a good thing that the makers have finally paid some attention to styling and looks. The interior is very comfortable with beige interiors and a height adjustable driver’s seat. It’s also got a 2.2 DICOR engine that claims to give 16 kpl. Well that’s still left to be seen, but I will agree that the Grande is loaded with features. Things I could take note of: Dual AC with separate louvers for the second and third row seats, Tilt adjustable steering Height adjustable driver’s seat, Electric ports for both front and rear passengers, Puddle lamps, and Comfortable 5-speed gear shift Speakers on doors. It comes fitted with Alpine CD/MP3 player with 6 speakers and a USB port, Large clear lens headlamps and a cutaway air dam in the front. Not bad, I thought the rear is very bus-like though. But, at least it’s got the spare wheel under the floor, which makes it a tad neater. It’s got the same sporty alloys as the Safari. I know TATA Motors is in the spotlight for its One-Lakh so called miracle car, but honestly, my expectations aren’t too high about it. But with the Grande, I had no clue about its launch, which is supposed to happen sometime in Feb. I like the looks of it. The styling has definitely improved, the colours are more attractive and so is the price. Delhi Ex-Showroom is Rs 6.55 Lakh for the Sumo Grande LX [Base model] and Rs 7.49 Lakh for the Sumo Grande GX [top end]. Submitted by Arun KumarLabels: Auto-Expo, New launch, Tata
Cars were not the only thing on the podiums at the Expo. There were more accessories and parts for cars as well. The cars looked great, but I was impressed with the Apollo section at the Expo. Apollo Tyres displayed its winter tyres - Acelere Ice and Hawkz Ice, for passenger vehicles. This icy range of winter tyres will cater to the European and North American markets, where they are recommended to change their car tyres to tackle the subzero temperatures and road conditions during the winter season. Now what is the difference between a regular tyre and a winter tyre? I didn’t know, so I Googled it. The differences lie in the compounding and tread patterns used. Acelere Ice and Hawkz Ice utilize advanced technology to give greater suction capability. The Ice range will also help Apollo Tyres Ltd ensure a round-the-year total brand experience for its export market across the globe. This would be the first time that an Indian tyre company is manufacturing winter tyres for the European market. Pretty COOL I think! Labels: Auto-Expo, European, Tyres
Thursday, 24 January 2008
Dilip Chaabria, the style guru of Indian cars does not spare any car without adding his creativity to it. He has used his fabulous imagination to create quite a few small wonders. DC’s Ambierod at the Auto Expo changed the look of our oldie Ambassador giving it new life. Amby’s redesign proved that with little creativity and hard work, any car can look posh and trendy. Now DC has laid his hands on the yet to be launched Tata ‘ Nano’. It is already a funky, small looking marvel and he will customize it to look more or less like a spaceship. What has he done to the ‘Nano’? He groomed everything starting from gull wing doors to the xenon and LED light panel to wider wheels, and equipped it with the fastest bike power engine of 1400cc called Hayabusa – a power monster that will turn this cutie into a roller-coaster. The interiors were also loaded with next generation gadgets like a PC screen featuring internet, navigation, games, and, last but not least, a customized instrumental panel. This is a great design for the next generation Nano car, but definitely no where related to the price tag of the current Nano. Wonder if Tata will bring this version out sometime in the near future at a higher price tag. Labels: Auto-Expo, Car-Designs, Tata
Tuesday, 22 January 2008
The well known “Bug” is soon coming to India and most people who do not mind spending close to 13 or 14 Lakh for a small car will be in line to bring “Herbie” into their garages like they took it into their hearts when the movies came out. The Volkswagen Beetle has been a favourite among the youth in America and Europe for decades and it will hope to see the same sort of success in India.
The Beetle shown in the Delhi Expo had a new look that still retained its stylish Bug-like appeal, but also added some finesse and luxury to the outside and inside styling. The Nano is the now people’s car, but the Beetle was the first ever people’s car launched in its time.
With loans and EMI’s easily accessible in the Indian market, the earning youth would definitely fancy travelling in this once common people’s car that is now a legend! Labels: Auto-Expo, Small cars market in India, Volkswagen
Thursday, 17 January 2008
Designed at Hyundai’s Europe's Design and Technical Center in Russelsheim, QarmaQ is Hyundai's Advanced Technology Demonstration Vehicle (ATDV) showcased at least 30 environment friendly technologies at the 2008 Auto Expo in New Delhi. The innovative solution is created to reduce severe injures in Utility Vehicles (CUV) pedestrian collisions. Everyone things of car owners, Hyundai’s innovative technology things of commoners also, thanks to that! The design concept, QarmaQ also shows environmentally responsible solutions, which is elegantly incorporated to enhance safety. Moreover, it's 2-liter diesel engine is fully compliant with EURO5 emission regulations. It sports all the latest technologies like, high-pressure fuel injection and fine fuel spray atomization for higher torque and better power output. Hyundai have definitely doing more on progressive technologies. Labels: Auto-Expo, Environment friendly cars, Hyundai
Big is big! The 2008 Auto Expo saw the launch of a new SUV from Chevrolet into the Indian market.
Over the past two years, SUVs have gained a lot in popularity. From Tata’s Safari to Maruti Suzuki’s Grand Vitara or from Honda’s CR-V to Mitsubishi’s Pajero, almost every car manufacturer has one or more SUV models to boast of. Even the luxury brands haven’t left anything to imagination. BMW with its X3 and X5 models, Audi with Q7, Mercedes-Benz with M-Class and Volvo with the XC90 are a few examples.
Chevrolet has brought in the Captiva at a time when the competition in the SUV segment is really rough. With a price tag of around Rs. 18 lakh, the Captiva is pitted against popular models such as Honda CR-V, Ford Endeavour, Hyundai Tucson, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mitsubishi Pajero and Nissan X-TRAIL. And those are just the models already present in the market. A lot of new SUV models are being considered for launch by many manufacturers and will arrive in the country soon. Hyundai has already showcased its new SUV - the Santa Fe at the Auto Expo and Volkswagen is eager to launch the Tiguan SUV.
Though loaded with a good array of features, the Captiva is priced a little too high at Rs. 18 Lakh. It’s more expensive than many of its competitors and is priced nearly equal to the very popular CR-V and Pajero. The Tata Safari with its good list of accessories and standard features and attractive price tag of Rs. 11 Lakh has lured many SUV buyers. GM hopes that the Captiva’s captivating looks, thoughtful interiors and new generation diesel engine will see it through. Labels: Auto-Expo, Chevrolet, General Motors, New launch, SUVs
Saturday, 12 January 2008
It’s was a time when people looked-back and rejoined the old glory at an Auto Expo where new wheel machines were making a huge entry into the Indian car market. The Heritage Motoring Club of India (HMCI) displayed the largest collection of vintage and classic cars at the Auto Expo this Tuesday in New Delhi. They called it the “The Auto Expo Classic Parade”. HMCI drove down at least 100 vintage and classic cars and over 59 such motorbikes on the 1st day of the Expo. The Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister flagged-off the display. Labels: Auto-Expo, Car Club, Vintage cars
Skoda India, the wholly owned arm of Czech-based Skoda Auto, has completed 6 successful years in India. The Indian auto market has provided a lucky boost to Skoda’s fading image elsewhere. The extraordinary success achieved by Skoda is evident from the series of awards won by the company over the past six years. Skoda has taken won accolades in all fields be it performance, styling or technology. In terms of sales, the company has sold over 47,000 units since its entry and has so far set up 50 dealerships across the country. Much of Skoda’s success can be attributed to them confidently having invested in the production facilities to bring up the capacity of produced cars to 40,000 per year. Skoda expressed its gratitude to the Indian government and to the city of Aurangabad for providing them with an opportunity to prove themselves in the country’s auto market. Right now Skoda is eagerly looking forward to the launch if its premium hatchback ‘Fabia’ at the ongoing Auto Expo. Labels: Auto-Expo, Indian Government, Skoda
Thursday, 10 January 2008
Everyone’s wait for Tata’s One-Lakh Car is finally over. The much awaited people’s car has been unveiled at the largest Auto Expo that India has ever seen. The name chosen is “Nano” that represents its size and technology used.
Guesses about this car’s name were making rounds in various forums and blogs. The various options explored were Jeh, Miracle, IndiOne, Indi-Va, Tata-1, and even Atom. The strongest competition was between the name ‘Nano’ and ‘Jeh’, since “Jeh” are the first three letters taken from the name Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhoy, founder of the Tata Empire, JRD Tata. I guess ‘Nano’ is the ideal name for this car with its in-built ‘nano’ technology.
Now the wait starts for the ‘Nano’ to be commercially launched. The expected month of launch is October in the midst of Diwali. Labels: Auto-Expo, New launch, One Lakh Car, Tata
One more attraction for youngsters at the 9th Auto Expo. Volvo has launched the convertible C70. There aren’t a lot of convertibles on our roads yet and we don’t see people feeling the air rush through their hair while they drive. No wonder then why Volvo has brought the convertible along. The C70 comes after Volvo’s recent launch of its luxury sedan S80 and the SUV XC90. The convertible will hit Indian roads soon. The most interesting feature of the C70 is its three piece retractable hardtop that can transform the vehicle from a convertible to a coupe within seconds of pressing a button. The company has so far not specified an exact date for the launch, but expressed its desire to enter the model into the Indian market. Volvo is making their models available as CBUs (Completely Built Units) which attracts a high percentage of import duty. The models are completely built outside India and then imported. Most likely the C70 too will be a CBU and its price would start somewhere around Rs 40 lakh. A late entrant to the India bandwagon of cars, Volvo has managed to sell 500 units across the country so far. The C70 is the most attractive model from them yet. Labels: Auto-Expo, Convertibles, luxury cars, Volvo
Wednesday, 9 January 2008
As it is, Auto Expo 2008 has been in the news. Skoda is set to showcase its premium hatchback Fabia at the Expo. The Fabia has taken a seat next to Tata’s one lakh car in terms of popularity. An unexpected delay of the model’s launch last year resulted in a long list of news articles and blogs on the Czech-based car manufacturer’s new model. Internet forums buzzed with speculations and rumours about the car. The Fabia has generated a lot of interest in people not because it’s a new small car, but because it will compete not only with other small cars but also with several mid-size sedans. Whether public interest in the Fabia will continue to remain after the upcoming Auto Expo and the model’s launch is debatable. Honda’s small car ‘Jazz’ which is expected to launch towards the end of the year is already in the news. The long list of cars set for launch this year could also prove to be a distraction. Labels: Auto-Expo, New launch, Skoda
The value of stolen vehicles crossed the Rs 1,000 Crore mark in 2007 according to a study made by the National Crime Records Bureau based in Delhi and passenger cars formed a major chunk of it. It was alarming to note that cars that come fitted with high-end audio equipment and expensive accessories score pathetically low on security. In the Indian car market, only premium & luxury cars come fitted with the latest anti-theft devices and the lesser cars are more prone to theft. These anti-theft devices should be made mandatory for all cars. Maruti was the first Indian company to offer the iCATs (Intelligent Computerized Anti-Theft System) as an option on all its models. Other car manufacturers should take a cue from Maruti and give away anti-theft devices with all their cars instead of leaving the option open to the car buyer. As there are nearly 30 launches lined up for the upcoming auto expo, it would be best if all small car manufacturers took note of this. The government should make it mandatory for all cars to be equipped with anti-theft mechanisms. Labels: Auto-Expo, Car-Accessories, Maruti, Security
Monday, 7 January 2008
A wide range of vintage and classic cars are set to steal the hearts of car lovers. The Heritage Motoring Club of India (HMCI) will display the largest collection of vintage and classic cars at the Auto Expo this Tuesday in New Delhi. This set-in-motion to Auto Expo’08 will be called, “The Auto Expo Classic Parade”. HMCI is expected to drive down at least 100 vintage and classic cars and over a 59 vintage and classic motorbikes on the 1st day of the Expo. The Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister would flag-off the display. Labels: Auto-Expo, classic cars, Vintage cars
Indians have already mastered the art of making cars and now they are super-mastering it. We saw the revolutionary Tri-fuel-hybrid concept car recently, Tata’s one lakh car is well on its way and now the ‘Super Car’ from car designing guru Dilip Chabria (popularly known as DC). DC takes pride in his new creation by leaving his signature on the body of the car. Chassis, lighting, and interiors for the new car will be designed within the country while the engine, brake assembly, and suspension system will be imported. With an investment of about Rs. 50 Crore, Chabria plans to set up an assembly plant in Pune for producing the first 300 units. Powered by a 3.0-litre twin turbocharged engine, the supercar can attain a top speed of 305 kmph and can go from 0 to 60 kmph in just 3.7 seconds. Now that’s really super! It’s expected cost is about Rs. 25 Lakh. The model will be showcased at the upcoming Auto Expo along with DC’s other design – the ‘Ambierod’ which is a retro-futuristic luxury car based on the legendary Ambassador. Labels: Auto-Expo, Concept Car, Racing
China is now eyeing to cash in on India’s growing car market. At least 300 Chinese and 100 Taiwanese car component manufacturers are set to rock the Auto Expo scheduled to start in 2 days at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan. Interestingly, at the last expo held in 2006, the Dragon’s participation was limited to just 50 such companies. Their huge participation speaks volumes about India’s growing car market. If 400 out of the 600 participating car components manufacturers are Chinese and Taiwanese, it’s time for the domestic and other foreign companies to think and bounce back on the dragon force. Labels: Auto-Expo, Car-components
Friday, 4 January 2008
There has been a lot of hype on launch of Skoda Fabia. Speculations are going on about its pricing, interiors, safety and audio. The company had not made these available even when it started bookings in December for Skoda car owners only. Fabia, which was launched earlier in Europe is now scheduled to be make an entry to Indian market with the 9th Auto Expo, New Delhi this year. While cruising through the Internet waters, I was able to find some information about this. Skoda will apparently launch three variants – two petrol and one diesel variant in India. The car will come equipped with 1.2 liter and 1.4 liter petrol engines producing 85 bhp and a 1.4 diesel generating 69 bhp. The car can attain a top capacity of 169 kmph. The diesel variant is considerably lower than petrol engine type owing to heavier body construction. The pricing is likely to range between Rs. 5.5 to 7 lakh. Considering the price it is one of the highest in the hatchback segments. The high end variant will come loaded with several latest safety features like the ABD, EBD, dual stage front airbags, and fun features like the sunroof and premium sound system. Park assists could also be added as an option. However, considering the pricing in relation to engine capacity, Fabia seems to be lagging behind most existing variants like the Swift, Getz and Palio. But on a closer look, Skoda has loaded the Fabia interiors with the latest technology and elegant seatings and smooth plastic. Safety has always been a priority for Skoda and Fabia is no exception. The new car could become a style statement among hatchback owners. Labels: Auto-Expo, Hatchbacks, New launch
Thursday, 3 January 2008
The most eagerly awaited Tata 1 lakh car is headed to Europe. It will make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show soon after the January Auto Expo in Delhi this year. The Geneva motor show in March will be its first European appearance.
Tata Motors plans to showcase the car worldwide as a preview before its planned launch into the European market. Whether the car will be open to test drives in Geneva is not clear. Tata has decided not to allow for test drives at the Auto Expo.
While the small car has heralded a rat race for cheap cars among many auto majors, it has raised a lot of questions about safety and emission standards. Tata’s other car, the Indigo, had come in for much criticism in South Africa some time back. As a result of this, it’s to be seen whether the world’s cheapest car will get favourable reviews from the mature western public. Labels: Auto-Expo, New launch, Tata Motor, Tata Motors 1 lakh car
Suzuki seems to be gradually turning India into its production base. It plans to export about 1 lakh units of its new model that will be based on its A-star concept car. The new car will be unveiled at the Auto Expo in New Delhi this month.
This will be the first car under the Suzuki brand to be built completely in India and exported to Europe. The car will also be available to Indian consumers in late 2008. Whatever the economic side of this plan, brand Suzuki that has been synonymous with Japan will from now on also carry the Indian badge. Labels: Auto-Expo, export cars, Maruti Suzuki, Suzuki
Saturday, 29 December 2007
All auto majors of the world have taken heed to the rising issue of global warming and have been researching and developing new technologies in this regard. Honda, being one of them, has been working aggressively to produce clean and green vehicles. For the coming Auto Expo in Delhi, Honda has selected the environment as its theme. Honda will showcase its popular hybrid car, the Civic Hybrid and its first fuel-cell model, the FCX. The Civic Hybrid’s powertrain will be a combination of a 20 bhp electric motor and a 95 bhp petrol engine. The car uses the cleaner motor in place of the petrol engine at initial start. As the car stops, the petrol engine is turned off automatically and power is routed to the wheels through the electric motor. This regulation of the petrol engine at start and at stop significantly contributes to reduction in fuel consumption and also cuts down on emissions. The Honda FCX first launched two years ago is the world’s first fuel cell vehicle to beg government awards and certifications. The new eco-friendly cars are expected to deliver Honda’s current commitments to the environment. Labels: Auto-Expo, Environment friendly cars, Honda, Hybrids
Thursday, 27 December 2007
Roads are the same but dreams are growing bigger in size and in number. So is global warming! The Indian passenger car market is set to see a hundred potential models at the upcoming Auto Expo in Delhi and many of them are slated to rollout in and soon after 2008. This is what we’d call getting everything on a platter! From Tata’s ultra cheap car to the all new Mercedes C-Class and from Skoda’s Fabia to BMW’s M5 – all are set to lock many gazes at the auto show. All in all, India will have about 60 new variants to flaunt on its roads by the end of 2008. Great news for car lovers good and the Indian auto market. A lot to worry about on the environmental scene and the growing rate of accidents and traffic jams. How much more can our roads take? Effective plans need to be tabled much before the cars roll out. Article submitted by Vignesh MadhusudhanLabels: Auto-Expo, Global Warming, Roads, Traffic Jams
Friday, 21 December 2007
It is good news for the car enthusiasts that after its successful venture into the small and mid-size car segment, General Motors is planning to foray into luxury car segment with iconic Cadillac. Other luxury brands, such as Mercedes, BMW and Audi have already made it big in the Indian luxury car segment. There is no reason for GM to lag behind them. The company plans to launch Cadillac in the middle of 2008. It could be priced at about Rs 40 lakh. The local manufacturing will begin only after the car receives a good response. But for now, the company will import completely built unit (CBU) from South Africa and England, the car comes with right hand driving in these countries. GM is likely to display Cadillac CTS model at the Delhi Auto Expo 2008. Cadillac’s entry will intensify the competition in already competitive luxury car market. Labels: Auto-Expo, Cadillac, General Motors, Imported cars, luxury cars
Thursday, 20 December 2007
I was happy to note that the revolutionary one lakh car from Tata Motors is ready to be unveiled. It will be showcased on January 10, 2008 at the upcoming Auto Expo in New Delhi. The prototype is ready and has been test driven at the company’s Pune factory. Tata Motors hopes to roll out the small car from its upcoming plant in Singur in West Bengal by mid-2009. The entire automobile world is waiting to see the one lakh car. If Tata manages to sell the car in large numbers and also convince the big players, then it could become the largest car maker by the turn of the decade. Tata has taken its role as an Indian automaker seriously. It is bringing in India centric vehicles. They will also display several new cars to be introduced in collaboration with Fiat and buses from the joint venture with Marcopolo of Brazil. Newly developed multi-axle heavy trucks, pickup vehicles, applications of panel vans, and new mini-trucks are in line for release. Labels: Auto-Expo, Marcopolo, Mini Trucks, New Delhi, pick ups
Monday, 17 December 2007
Tata Motors is planning to conduct a test run of the much awaited one lakh car by April 2008 on a new track. The prototype car has already been prepared and will be showcased at the Auto Expo 2008, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The small car will get a 600 cc engine and four doors. The car is expected to hit the Indian roads by mid 2008. The operations are in full-swing to roll out this car and enter the small car segment in India. Tata's plant is buzzing with brisk activities as equipments started arriving where car is being manufactured. Tata Motors has made all arrangements including power substation, effluent water treatment plant was set up to complete this project. Labels: Auto-Expo, Indian small cars security, power station, Tata Motors 1 lakh car
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