Nano becomes a ‘laadla’ at Geneva
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 Show, European, Geneva motor show, Tata Motors, tata nano
Apollo Breaking Ice in Europe!
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
Lighting-up with Indian company
The Neolite Group, a noted supplier of automotive lights for over 25 manufacturers based in India and overseas has merged with an Austrian partner.
Neolite entered a
joint venture with Austria based ZKW Zizala Lichtsysteme GmbH company, which has been given a 26 percent stake. The company has also been given an option to acquire 40 percent stake in its Indian business. However, the exact financial figures were unavailable. ZKW is one of the leading manufacturers of lighting for premium segment vehicles in Europe.
The new company would be called Neolite ZKW Lightings Private Limited. They are expected to start the operation by 2009 and 2.5 million lamps would be the initial volume of production. The JV would also manufacture lamps including LED, Xenon and AFS technology for the premium vehicles in different segments.
Labels: European, Joint Venture, Lighting
Fiat’s back in India
Fiat is coming back and with a bang! The company has lined up seven
launches spread across 24 months. The company has re-started production in its plant in Ranjangaon, Pune.
The releases over the next two years will be the popular European two-door CBU Cinquecento, the best seller
Linea saloon, 5-door Bravo,
Palio diesel version,
Grande Punto,
Alfa Romeo, and the best known sports car
Ferrari.
At one time India had known only two car makers-Ambassador and Fiat.The flood of new cars almost drove the two auto companies off the roads. It will be a treat to the eyes to see so many Fiats’ rolling over the Indian roads again. Fiat has decided to push its products by combining old goodwill with an aggressive approach.
Labels: Ambassador, European, Ferrari, Fiat, Launches, Palio