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Tuesday, 27 April 2010
 The 2010 Beijing Auto Show that began just the other was open to the press on Friday. We did give our readers a preview of the Beijing show. Today, we have something more. Almost all car makers are grabbing their share of the emerging markets and what can be better than the 2010 Beijing Auto show if any of them is interested in capturing the Chinese car buyer’s mind? Today, we bring to you details of the Italian super sports car maker Lamborghini. When Lamborghini made its entry at the auto show, the audience was stunned. The car maker presented a highly exclusive edition of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. It was the Chinese Edition. The car’s value is further hiked by the fact that the exclusive edition will be limited to a maximum of ten numbered cars and will be offered to the growing group of sports cars collectors in China only. Furthermore the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera celebrated its Asian premiere at the Beijing auto show. Automobili Lamborghini's strong performance at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show and the special edition of the flagship Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce that the Italian super sports car maker unveiled exclusively for the Chinese market, draw attention to the car maker’s steadfast loyalty to China and the development of a super sports car culture in the country. Last year, Automobili Lamborghini had pulled off an 11 per cent growth in China. Last week, on the 20th of April, Lamborghini launched its seventh Automobili Lamborghini China dealership in Shenzhen. This will soon be followed by the inauguration of an eighth showroom in Xiamen. Lamborghini considers it total pleasure to share its passion with China's super sports car drivers, collectors and fans. Nice way of pleasing the Chinese car buyers must say. Just ten special edition Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce cars across the globe and these new cars would be designed and manufactured exclusively for China's most discriminating super sports car enthusiasts. Do you see the orange stripe on the car? This stripe symbolizes the power of an erupting volcano. But, it sure decorates the flat grey painted carbon shell of the car. Every model holds a numeration badge with the name of its owner. Personalization personified. This car, Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce has been one of the most fascinating super sports cars of all times and Lamborghini describes it as "exceptionally purist". While the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 is a great model, the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is an even more extreme top model. It is more powerful, lighter and faster than the Murciélago LP 640. With the output of the 6.5 liter V12 increased to 670 bhp and a weight reduction of 100 kg, the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 2.3 kg per bhp. It leaps from zero to 100 km/h in merely 3.2 seconds and hits top speed at 342 km/h. With its stupendous performance, cutting-edge precision and incomparable high-speed stability, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the ultimate performance car for advanced sports car drivers. It was extensively altered and redeveloped in almost every aspect to make it achieve the substantial weight reduction of 100 kilograms. From chassis to engine and transmission, right through to the interior, the car was modified.  The engine output increase from 640 to 670 bhp was due to optimized valve timing and a reworked intake system. The significantly modified aerodynamics with substantially increased downforce enhances car stability even at very high speeds. The large "Aeropack Wing" and its added downforce give a top speed of 337 km/h. Labels: 2010-Beijing-Auto-Show, Auto-Show, Beijing-Auto-Show, Chinese-Car, Lamborghini, Lamborghini-Murciélago, New-Car-Launch, New-Cars
Friday, 23 April 2010
The Beijing Auto Show 2010 has already begun and we bring to you the latest info from the auto show. There were around 2,100 companies from 16 nations and regions exhibiting their products. Today is the day. Yes, today, the event is open to the press. The auto exhibition area's 200,000 square meters are literally adorned with cars, including plenty of concept cars. A new variant of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be launched after this China auto show in Beijing. Car makers have already begun targeting emerging markets like Brazil and India. How can China be left behind? The new vehicle launches have already begun at the Beijing auto show in a race to capture China's fast-growing market among loose sales elsewhere. Till around 1995, there were hardly any private cars in China. But now, the scenario is different. The explosive sales growth in the emerging markets has become the highest. Watching the new long-wheelbase sedans from leading luxury brands like Audi and BMW at the Auto Show 2010 is sure going to be a treat to the eyes. An all-new high-powered Ferrari 599 GTO and a V6-powered Porsche Panamera are also going to add excitement.
Lamborghini is all set to showcase the special model that it has made exclusively for the Chinese market. Ford is not going to stay behind. It will present its all-new global concept that could be sold in China, Europe or the US. We will wait for this car to make an entry in India. Chinese home brands like BYD, Chery and Geely will also geared up with their new models for an international audience. The show is going to enhance their confidence too.
Chinese auto makers have come up with plenty of hybrid, electric and fuel cell models. While SAIC Motor Corp has come up with the Roewe 550 plug-in hybrid, Roewe 750 hybrid and E1 electric concept car, FAW Group is showcasing its EV electric concept car, the Besturn 70 and Besturn 50 hybrid cars. Changan Automobile Group will be displaying its Benben electric car, S469 hybrid minivan, Zhixiang and the Yuexiang hybrid car. Chery Automobile is all set to flaunt the S18 electric car, the electric version of QQ compact car, the hybrid version of Riich G5 sedan and the M11 hybrid car. BYD Co is geared up to show off the E6 electric car, F3DM and F6DM plug-in hybrids. Brilliance Auto, Geely Automobile Holdings and Lifan Group too will be displaying their innovations. China's auto market tore down the global economic disaster and sales shot up by a huge difference of 45 per cent last year to 13.6 million vehicles. This goes to say that China is quite ahead of the 10.5 million vehicles sold in the United States last year. This year has been great too. Sale of the units in China has increased rapidly and growth has accelerated to 11.9 per cent in the first quarter. A conference is also going to take place to discuss the growth and other factors. GM will be unveiling its all new electric Volt MPV5 concept car, a Chinese-made minivan and a compact sedan at the auto show. Whoa! That’s quite a lot from the world's largest automotive manufacturer. Meanwhile, Ford's latest Focus sedan gets an Asian debut and the company is unveiling a new concept car. Toyota too is on the same page and will be showcasing fifty vehicles including the new stylish gas-electric hybrid concept car. Toyota is trying its best to leave its footprints on the market by providing numerous vehicles. The car recalls will soon be forgotten and the launches will probably last longer in everybody’s mind. Labels: Audi, Beijing-Auto-Show, Beijing-Auto-Show-2010, BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz-E-Class, New-Cars, Toyota
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
It’s been long now since Fiat and Chrysler merged, and this week, Fiat SpA will be revealing its first strategic plan since teaming up with the U.S. car maker. Two years ago, CEO Sergio Marchionne had outlined a timeframe for selling stakes in a combined company and over a year ago he had predicted that there would be a drastic consolidation in the automotive industry which has so many ups and downs. He had emphasized on the need to lay out plans for new products to show he could achieve a lot and even have cost cuts with Chrysler. The week will be real hectic with presentations from all of the company's business units. The over six hour presentation is also going to involve battalions of journalists and analysts. It was decided well in advance, during the day-long Chrysler presentation in November 2009 that each unit would present product plans and business targets and a focus on strategy to win market share. Marchionne may have something to say. Either they keep the autos or they do something. It can't just go on like this, both from an investor and employees standpoint. It looks like Marchionne’s strategic plan will answer all questions regarding the possible separation of the autos business. He has said that he expects to meet criteria laid out by the Obama administration for raising his stake in Chrysler to 35 per cent in two years. Once that is achieved, he could put Chrysler and Fiat together and offer investors a slice of the enlarged pie; all this assuming that the autos industry recovers pre-crisis confidence. He also foresees the car market going back to normal in the next three years. Marchionne has dismissed the idea of any other tie-up for Fiat. But, earlier this month, he did mention that France's Peugeot, once in talks with Fiat, would be next to find a partner. Will such a merger work? It may, but wouldn't make it past politicians keen to save jobs. There's considerable overlap between the two carmakers and that's great news in terms of economies of scale. However, it is very bad news in terms of job cuts. To add to this, Peugeot's controlling family shows no signs of wanting to sell. Coming to Fiat's future, Marchionne will have to show he has a strong inventory of new cars to tempt the public which just faced the recession blows. Car sales are expected to fall worldwide. Marchionne believes Fiat will see flat profit in 2010. Fiat would also report first-quarter results on Wednesday. The Fiat-Chrysler collaboration could give Fiat a lifeline to remain a competitor in the more expensive and popular C and D cars where its Alfa Romeo and Lancia brands have small market shares. If alone, Fiat may just disappear from those segments. Fiat’s Alfa Romeo model, the Giulietta would launch in May. Hopefully, it will propel the brand’s sales, together with the MiTo, to 120,000 this year, up by 10,000 units. 200,000 Alfa Romeo’s are likely to be sold from 2011 to prove the 100-year-old brand has turned around under new head Harald Wester. The fate of Fiat's Lancia is closely tied to the Chrysler range. Models may be sold under the Lancia badge in southern Europe, especially Italy, while Chrysler will be the marque for the U.S. and parts of northern Europe. Fiat will have the much-wanted new products this year and next at a presentation to unions on Dec. 22, with five based on Chrysler models and five other new products. This week’s presentation may also have Fiat's plans for fast-growing emerging markets like China, India and Russia in the spotlight. It has joint ventures in these nations. We also see a possibility of the presentation hinting at partners for its Iveco truck unit. Marchionne had said last year that Iveco could get involved in mergers and acquisitions. Labels: Alfa-Romeo, Chrysler-Cars, Fiat-Cars, Fiat-Chrysler, Joint-Venture, New-Cars
 What comes to your mind when you listen to the name Citroen and French-made automobile? There’s no doubt that it’s going to be a small, funky, eco-friendly green car. Well, you needn’t be too embarrassed for stereotyping. We first judge cars and then we begin to love or avoid some of them. Some of them are not worth owning. But this new French car has so much in it that it is a real wonder. One will just love to ride through the countryside in this special car. It is so amazing, so appealing. Have a nice look and you will see future car lines present in every feature of its design and styling. Yes, we are talking about the new Citroen GT concept car. It's lustrous, sexy, the only one of its kind, and cent per cent exotic in this stage of its development. The all-new Citroen GT is sure not a boxy pedal-powered car. Running on the Ford V8 engine, the same one used in the Ford GT, speculation says that this exotic car can stir up around 500 bhp. We have also heard that Citroen plans to make just 6 units of the Citroen GT. Any guesses about the price? Well, it may be $1.8 million dollars a piece. The models are being tested right now and hopefully the car is only going to get even better. The car makers want to make an eco friendly version of this exotic sports car. Yes, the Citroen GT will be an inspired green dream car. Initially, news was that the design was inspired by an automobile in a video game. The automobile engineers then brought the idea to execution by designing the real life concept car. Last week, Joseph Eckhart, member of the Italianizzato Club, said that the video game Gran Turismo had inspired the design of the new Citroen GT. To add to the power rumors, we have this. Citroen is considering dropping in a 789 bhp X4 Hydrogen engine with a 6 speed sequential gearbox and this will truly make the Citroens popular as the makers of futuristic green exotics. But the question remains, will Citroen drop in the 789 bhp X4 Hydrogen engine with that gearbox? With the beginning of the new week, on the 18th of this month, we hear that the Hydrogen engines may take more energy to produce than the power they make. Everyone nods in approval. However, the emissions are cleaner than a carbon fuel based model and therefore greener. Green is the latest trend in the automobile world and we now know that Citroen is trying its best to fit in the amazing Citroen GT in the green exotics auto world in a spectacular fashion. The green light is flickering bright and we can all hope to see more and more eco friendly new cars. Labels: Citroen, Citroen-GT, Concept-Cars, Exotic-Cars, Green-Cars, New-Cars
Monday, 19 April 2010
 Three years down the line F1 may switch to 1.5 litre powerplants along with the return of turbochargers. Yes, you’ve heard it right. The years 1977 through 1988 saw the greatest times in the history of sport. It was the turbocharged era. There were the super-fast machines which were regarded the most powerful open-wheel circuit racing cars in the history of motorsport. These turbocharged super powers took motorsport at its peak. They helped the sport live up to its ‘pinnacle of motorsport’ tag. 1977 to 1988 was indeed the best period during which F1 got most of its name and fame. The F1 grid was filled with turbo engines from a variety of builders. The racing cars touched the highest level of performance in the history of motorsport. The then racing cars proved to be true missiles with even 1,100 bhp turbo engines. Forced induction really took off in 1983 to improve engine power, efficiency, and emissions without much extra weight and minimal modifications to the engine architecture. Till 1988, Formula 1 cars with those extra-wide tyres pushed over 1000 bhp each and travelled round the globe. In 1988, the turbo engine saw an end, its last gasp behind World Champion Aryton Senna’s McLaren, powered by a turbocharged Honda V-6. It now looks like that technology is going to return. The F1 team bosses are looking at switching to 1.5-litre turbocharged engines from 2013. But, if you’re expecting the same power, please don’t. The Formula 1 turbochargers will focus on efficiency and the engines are not going to develop the same power. In the new engines, only the inline-four configuration will be permitted. Earlier, we had the six- and eight-cylinder mills roaming on the racetracks. The good news is that the new engines would only need half the amount of fuel currently required to race the entire race distance. New F1 trends will now be dictated and the new cars will likely display higher performance with lower consumption of fuel and emissions too. Isn’t that great news? We would have to wait till 2013 though. With the four-cylinder engine, it sure seems like FIA is looking at re-adopting the standard Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems or KERS technology, just another element of sportiness without excess fuel. This technology is believed to be made use of. Doesn’t this sound exciting? It does. But unfortunately, the KERS technology cannot be adopted by old car manufacturers. Brands like Ferrari do not have makes that can adopt the new kind of engines. So, while most manufacturers are happy about the downsized engines, Ferrari has been largely opposing the move. If you’re wondering what is bringing about all this talk, well, don’t you think more sponsors will now get attracted towards the race? The smaller race engines would influence the opinions of sponsors and manufacturer works teams who still haven’t made up their minds completely. Rumours say promoting F1’s green credentials can work its way in getting the unnamed sponsors. Just like any other professional motorsport, the importance of sponsorship funding cannot be simple here too. We have heard that Volkswagen, long on the F1 radar, is likely to look for an entry spot if the turbocharged engines are made mandatory. The German auto maker is looking at entering into the sport. Will it come as an all new team or will it take over Williams? Let’s wait. With Bridgestone leaving the sport, Michelin is looking at coming in again and has forced several conditions, the main one being, switching to 18-inch rims to make its F1 tyres more relevant to its road and sports car programmes. Labels: Ferrari, FIA, Formula-1, Formula-1-2013, New-Cars, Turbo-Engines, Turbochargers, Volkswagen
Friday, 16 April 2010
 It’s now the season for crossovers to make their entry into the Indian car market and Hyundai is getting all geared up with its Santa Fe. This latest crossover from Hyundai has been made ready for an October, 2010 launch in India. Everybody is aware that the Hyundai Terracan and Tucson haven’t really worked wonders for the South Korean auto maker in India. The Santa Fe for the Indian market was first revealed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Terracan and Tucson sure offer great features, great levels of equipment, and amazing performance. In spite of all this, why has the car maker been struggling in the SUV and crossover markets? Oh yes, the Indian car market must be already loaded with other great SUVs and crossovers like the Honda CR-V and the Ford Endeavour. Hyundai is now trying its best to improve its position in the crossover segment. Let’s see if the Santa Fe manages to make it to the top of the charts. This crossover has been the car maker’s American bestseller. The size? It’s going to be huge, considerably larger than the Tucson. The Santa Fe would also come with an extra-powerful engine to tempt the India’s crossover buyers. Hopefully, this time, the automotive giant will successfully be able to tap the crossover segment too. What engine do you think the new Santa Fe is going to carry? Well, speculations say that the crossover may come with a 2.2-litre diesel motor packed with 151 bhp and 335 Nm torque and a 2.7-litre petrol engine delivering 191 bhp and 284 Nm torque. You may be aware that the Tucson in the U.S. actually makes use of the V6 petrol engine. Now, if you’ve been wondering why Hyundai does not use the same engine in its Indian cars, let us tell you that most Indian SUV buyers are not too interested in having such a big petrol motor. Safety issues are becoming a major issue in today’s cars. What new issue will the Santa Fe bring along? Well, the new Hyundai car is believed to come with the best-in-class safety features. The exterior of the car will be decked with slanting headlamps and taillights, a flowing waistline, and sparkling wheel arches. New fog lamps and the 17-inch alloy wheels adorn the car.  The interiors of the car too will be beautified with high quality materials and the finest technologies. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, all-new instrument console, a friendly navigation system, a smart key, and a big LCD screen connected to the parking assist system, all come as part of the new crossover. An optional rear-view camera, start-stop button and active head rests for enhanced safety are sure going to add value to the car. The Santa Fe is believed to carry a tag of around Rs 20 Lakh. Labels: Hyundai-Santa-Fe, Indian-cars, New-Cars, New-Hyundai-Car, Santa-FE
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
Cars today comes with state-of-the-art features to draw customers. It’s an excellent strategy considering that people are becoming more and more tech savvy with time. But one shouldn’t forget that it is the nature of car buyers to embrace technology as long as they can afford it. J.D. Powers, a research company, conducted a survey on car buyers to study their expectations from a new car purchase. With over 19,000 respondents, the research firm concluded that consumers are well-informed in new car technology and seem to be eager about having these gadgets in their new cars. The research firm also observed that their level of eagerness and excitement correlates to the price tag and features in a new car. Of all the respondents, 67% of them showed profound interest in having a navigation system installed in their cars. But when it was revealed that a typical car GPS navigation system would burn a hole in their pocket, the number drastically fell to 20%. In the same way, J.D. Powers also discovered that customers are interested in installing an MP3 player on their cars provided, that it doesn’t exceed their budget. Out of all the respondents, 65% said that they prefer and enjoy the ability to listen to their " favourite sounds” while they’re on the road. On the other hand, 27% of the respondents would rather have a “smart phone" music connectivity over the MP3 feature. Regardless of what customers want, they are ready to shell out only the amount of money they believe as necessary. Moreover, the car buyers are likely to cave in any feature that come with a price tag of more than what they can go for. Labels: GPS-System, New-Car-Purchase, New-Cars
Thursday, 9 April 2009
Mumbai streets will now be packed with black and yellow Santro taxis. The Mumbai Taxi Union decides to replace the 25 year old taxis with a new car that may better suit the needs of the tourists as well as be cost-efficient. The first batch of Santro was handed over to the Taxi Union at a ceremony organized at Modi Hyundai dealership. But for now only Santro will replace the old Fiat taxis and gradually this number will be increased to 1250 by December. And furthermore there are about 50,000 old taxis plying on Mumbai roads that are to be replaced. Hyundai Santro is a proven and low-maintenance small car with capacious cabin and functional features, and high-end reliability. Earlier there were speculations that the taxi market wanted to target the world’s cheapest car Nano or Maruti Suzuki WagonR to replace the old taxis. But then why Santro, why not Nano or WagonR? If we closely look at the Nano it is a cost-effective and fuel-efficient car but as a taxi the car is not viable as it is can comfortably accommodate only 3 people apart from the driver. And about the WagonR it could definitely be a good option but maybe Maruti Suzuki is not willing to enter the taxi segment. Hyundai wanted to make a breakthrough in the Mumbai taxi market and so introduced its low-priced and high-performance car in the segment. To add more joy to the taxi market the company also offers its Santro to taxi owners at a discounted price of Rs 2, 42, 500. Now the Mumbai streets will witness a new fleet of taxis. Labels: Fiat-Taxi, Hyundai- Santro-Taxi, Hyundai-cars, New-Cars, Small-Cars
Monday, 16 March 2009
Though the global recession has affected the new luxury car sales, the pre-owned luxury cars are still rejoicing their sales. The used car market is experiencing high scale growth grabbing buyers of small cars as well as mid-sized premium sedans. Seeing the great potential of luxury cars in the used car market, car brands like Merc, BMW, and Porsche are planning to try their hands in the used car segment. Porsche plans sales target of 200 new cars this year but for the used car it is likely to plan a higher target. Likewise, BMW who carries a high brand vale in India is also looking forward for a good sales number from the used car market. However, German Mercedes-Benz is planning to foray the used car market by 2010. New cars must be envying the pre-owned cars as they are really making impressive sales. It seems the competition is growing aggressively robust in the used car market compared to the new car market. Labels: Luxury-Cars, New-Cars, Used-Cars
Thursday, 5 February 2009
With increasing number of road fatalities, car safety features are the primary catch in cars by car buyers nowadays. Though India is far away from other nations in implementing stringent norms for necessary safety features in cars, but Indian car manufacturers are developing cars stressing on safety features that will follow the European standard. Car manufacturer like Tata Motors and Mahindra are soon to invade the European market and the key feature that will drive their car sales in the Western market are safety features. They have given safety the prime importance in their cars because European customers are more aware about safety mechanism of cars. European buyers are even more drawn to cars that have good star ratings by the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme). In Europe, new cars are rated by the Euro NCAP with 'star ratings' (1 to 5) depending upon performance in various crash tests, like front, side and pole impacts, and impacts with pedestrians. Now as the Indian car manufactures are planning to drive their cars in the European market, they are aggressively working to meet the European safety standard. Labels: Car-Manufacturer, New-Cars, Tata-Motors
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Hyundai’s ‘Sunshine Car’ Santro which experienced slow sales for sometime is now slowly gearing up to capture the car market again. The car witnessed a slow ride after the launch of its own sibling ‘Hyundai i10’ which has grasped the market with its performance, style, and reliability. Though the car is outshined by Hyundai i10 for some duration, it received very good sales last year with overall sales number of 2.3 Lakh units. The company is also expecting same sales figure this year. Interestingly, in December when ‘i10’ was available with discount scheme, Santro too reported impressive sales. Hyundai car dealers revealed that though the ‘i10’ is more in demand due to its stylish look and superior Kappa engine, the Santro is also liked by many customers because of its spacious interior and better fuel efficiency. Santro occupied number one position for being most dependable and reliable compact car in the Vehicle Dependability Study conducted by J.D. Power Asia Pacific in 2008 which also reflects its prominence in the market. India’s family car Santro is also available in CNG and LPG versions which add a reason for its popularity among buyers. Sales figure of 7,500-8,000 units a month in 2008 against about 10,000 units of the i10 also supports the fact that Santro is still alive in the mind of car buyers’ despite the presence of modern and technologically advanced new cars. Labels: Hyundai-i10, Hyundai-Santro, New-Cars
Friday, 16 January 2009
Indulge yourself in the exhilarating aura of 'Mumbai International Motor Show (MIMS) 2009' organized by the Times of India that showcases latest car brands and technologies. The inaugural day of the event was marked by the most striking car of the Indian future, the Volkswagen Beetle. The name is no stranger to anyone, it's a true iconic car that exudes style, elegance, luxury, and performance. Excitingly, this is the first public display of the elite Beetle. The significant presence of Volkswagen marque brand, the Beetle, at MIMS is attributed to the fact that the show offers a strong and independent platform that would probably rise the potential market of the car after its launch, hopefully in the next 15 months. The company also has a great belief that this would help them strengthen their presence in the Indian car market mainly in the western part of the country. The inaugural day is over but yet there are many new cars, bikes, and futuristic technologies to be displayed during the remaining three days of the show. The second day of the event is believed to witness the most scintillating new car launches of 2009. Don't get deep into your thoughts, its the latest Fiat Linea and the Mahindra Xylo, this cars that have recently made their debut in India. Adding to your surprise and excitement, the event will feature a number of cars and two-wheelers that have been a vital part of the popular Bollywood movies. And sports enthusiasts can feast their eyes with the beauty of displayed Formula One Cars. MIMS is a great platform for car and bike enthusiast who desire to have a rendezvous with exciting cars, bikes, and technologies. The show started on 15th Jan 09 at MMRDA Grounds in Mumbai and will end on 18th Jan 09. Labels: Auto-Shows, Indian-car-market, New-Cars
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
Hyundai Genesis bags the 'North American Car' of the Year Award among the dazzling cars displayed at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show from the brand names like the Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, and the Volkswagen. Under the brilliant white light of the Detroit Auto Show was showcased an inspiring assortment of fabulous cars and concepts from around the world. Cars like the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss, the Audi Sportback Concept, BMW Z4, and the Volkswagen Passat CC were under the spotlight, drawing visitor's attention towards their elegance, style, and aesthetic visual appeal. The Hyundai Genesis steals the show winning the car-of-the-year award. The '2009 North American Car of the Year' is a honourable title which will further encourage Hyundai to manufacture more upscale, up-market cars in the similar platform for the US consumers. This award has marked a significant milestone in the history of Hyundai. Hyundai has plans to launch a couple of new cars in the coming years. Maybe those are a part of this winning platform and may succeed with heaps and bounds in the Indian car market. Labels: Hyundai-cars, Indian-car-market, New-Cars
Tuesday, 6 January 2009
2009 brings a good news for the foreign car manufactures with the renewed export policy on new cars. Now foreign car manufacturers will be able to export vehicles to India from places other than their country of manufacture. This policy implies to cars having a free on board (FOB) value of Rs 1.9 million or more with engine capacity of more than 3,000cc for petrol variants and 2,500cc for diesel variants. The flexibility of the policy has simplified the export process for the foreign car manufacturers. The policy was introduced in the Exim Policy for 2001-02, but was unfriendly and created a lot of export issues. The new policy will now help those foreign car manufacturers who were unable to export cars to India due to various restrictions. Further to facilitate the import of cars in India, Kochi has been added in the list of permissible customs ports which currently comprises the Nhava Sheva, Kolkata, Chennai, ICD Tughlakabad, Delhi Air Cargo and the Mumbai Port. Labels: Car-Manufacturers, New-Cars
Old cars are still running strong on the Indian roads inspite of the presence of more advanced and attractive new cars in the market. In other words, they have saved the drowning car manufacturers against the flood of recession. When the new cars were struggling to get enough sales, old cars like the Santro, Indica and the Accent witnessed elevated sales registering more than 20 percent of the overall domestic sales. The existing models scored more in sales than the new generation cars. The popularity and the success of the old models are the reason for their existence in the Indian car market. Though some of the recent launches like the A-star, Indica Vista and the Corolla Altis have made a good entry but their elder siblings are still strongly contributing to the company's profit. This clearly indicates the demand of these models among the buyers. Hyundai Santro, the flagship model of Hyundai experienced a good sales of 37,236 units in comparison to its next generation hatchback i10, which sold 45,599 cars. The Santro remained a favourite car of many due to its incomparable mileage in its class. Honda also decided to sell its old City though the new generation of the car is launched in market. This decession is against Honda's global strategy of phasing out an existing car once its next-generation is introduced. Similarly, Tata will continue with Indica along with Indica Vista and Getz will run along with the Hyundai i20. The current credit crisis has impacted the car sales tremendously and in order to push the sales, the car manufactures are banking on the old models as well as on the new cars. The phrase 'Old is Gold' truly suits these cars! Labels: Maruti-Suzuki-A-Star, New-Cars, Santro
Tuesday, 30 December 2008
BMW ratchets up the trend of introducing new cars in the Indian car market. The company has high plans to launch a variety of new cars along with the model-line extensions. Some of the great deliveries by the BMW are to be seen in the upcoming X6 and revamped 5-Series. The company is gradually widening its range and strengthening its credentials in India. After introducing the 3-Series, 5-Series, and the 7-Series, the even numerals in between like the 2-Series, 4-Series, and the 6-Series are also expected to be a part of the BMW portfolio soon. An expansion of Z-Series along with extension of X3 is also expected from the BMW’s stable. The next generation 5-Series is speculated to be introduced by 2010 with a completely new chassis, a double wishbone front suspension, and a light-hybrid technology. Additionally, the X6 hybrid would be rolled out with a completely new concept. But this new concept is expected to be overpowered by the company’s own X3 that is to be introduced with new dimensions, pleasing interiors, and intelligent engine technology. The BMW is also working on the concept of 1-Series based on the platform of roadster and the Z4 based on Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class. The new image of the A8 is known to be revived in the form of a four door coupe designed and built on the lines of the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide. With so many new cars in BMW’s stable, there is much to expect in terms of design, engineering, excellence, and elegance. Labels: BMW-Cars, Indian-car-market, New-Cars
Friday, 26 December 2008
As part of the 25th anniversary celebration in India, Maruti is all set to organize the Mega Car Exchange Carnival on 27th and 28th December at the BRV Police Ground in Bangalore. Maruti announces an excellent exchange offer for the entire range of its new cars and used cars. If planning to buy a new car, you can visit the carnival and enjoy an exchange benefit with any car, make or model. You can even enjoy the on spot finance approval or renewal of insurance in the carnival. There are special offers for those who are working as corporate. Additionally, you can also have a 15 point check up, free air condition check up, free oil and coolant top up, and free electrical check up. If you wish to buy a used car, then excellent offers are awaiting you. The company gives you a complete 120 points quality check ups with refurbished genuine car parts. All the used cars displayed in the carnival would be certified by Maruti Suzuki engineers and would be sold with one year warranty and 3 year free service. Labels: Maruti Suzuki, New-Cars, Used-Cars
Wednesday, 24 December 2008
The J.D Power Asia conducts various surveys and researches to deliver customer's insight to car manufacturers. This insight plays a two way role by helping car manufacturers improve on their product quality and by aiding customers make a perfect car buying decision. With the advent of modern generation cars, there are many Indian cars that have lost their worth in the car market. But there are car brands that are still shining above all in terms of car design and performance. The recent India Automotive Performance Execution and Layout (APEAL) study revealed that Maruti, Honda, and Toyota rejoice winning presence of their new cars in the market. The study was based on 10 vehicle factors including vehicle exterior, interior, storage and space, audio/entertainment/navigation, seats, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), driving dynamics, engine/transmission, visibility and driving safety, and fuel economy. Excitingly, four of the Maruti car models topped their respective car segments. WagonR stood the first in compact car segment, Swift topped the premium compact car segment, Swift Dzire ranked first under entry mid-size car segment, and the Maruti Suzuki SX4 topped the mid-size car segment. Even Honda and Toyota rejoiced success with their winning car models. Honda Civic ranked highest in the premium mid-size car segment and the CR-V holds the highest position in the SUV segment. Toyota experienced the top position of its highly running Innova ranking first under the MUV segment. The ranking clearly reflects customer's delight with respect to design and performance of these cars. This delight further transforms to favourable word of mouth recommendations, which directly helps in brand promotion. Labels: Honda-Cars, Indian-cars, Maruti-Cars, New-Cars, Toyota-Cars
Friday, 10 October 2008
 It feels proud to pen down that Volvo Ocean Race is hitting Indian shores for the first time. This is nothing new. Most of you must be aware of the news that the biggest yachting race in the world is about to land on the Cochin Port in the country. To add glamour, beauty and joy to the biggest sports event, Volvo, the organizer of the event, is also expected to launch new cars for India. So, that means double bonanza for India. At one end of the spectrum, Volvo will touch the Indian shores and at the other end Volvo will introduce new cars. The most interesting part of the bonanza is that both the race as well as the new cars will deliver a blend of active lifestyle, adventure, and passion. Three new car models comprising Volvo V70, Volvo XC70 and Volvo XC90 are expected to encapsulate from the sporting event in Cochin. But…you need to wait for the next couple of months to rejoice the blend. Labels: New-Cars, Volvo-Cars, Volvo-India, Volvo-V70, Volvo-XC70, Volvo-XC90
Friday, 26 September 2008
With the advent of new cars loaded with luxuries and amenities, the faith of the old Ambassador was lost in India. Earlier it was the only choice for people when people think of cars but today a number of luxurious and advanced cars in all segments are available in the Indian car market. The wide choice of cars has imposed people to move away from the Ambassador. This king of yesteryear was gradually pushed out of contention. But…it’s surprising to know that the Amby still holds its own charm. Nowadays, the old iconic car is becoming a hot favourite for expatriates working in the corporate sector of India’s IT hub. In the past couple of months, 6 Hindustan Ambassadors have been sold to foreigners living in Bangalore. Foreigners in Bangalore feel that the Amby is an attractive car with a rich history. They just bask the glorious ride in this old car. Labels: Ambassador, Hindustan-Ambassadors, Indian-Car, New-Cars
Monday, 22 September 2008
Indian consumers always had the habit of having wide options to make a perfect car purchase. But now the trend has taken a different curve. With the introduction of several new car models in the Indian car market, car buyers are completely relying on the personal opinions or advices from their friends and relatives. No one is free to test drive 20 or 30 models if they just want to purchase one perfect car. Car buyers now prefer exchanging views with others in their own community as well as a number of social communities. Views and opinions from different people help them make a perfect car choice. In short, the word of mouth has become a marketing tool for the customers as all are approaching popular and praiseworthy car brands. With respect to this Indian car manufacturers are offering special services to their customers so that the unique marketing tool works magic for them. This fact has been proved by the survey conducted by J.D Power Asia. The study has revealed that only 27% of new car buyers in the country go for searching for number of car models to get the best car and the remaining buyers directly go as per the magical mouth-to-mouth publicity. Will this magic wand become a new marketing tool for the car manufacturers? Will car manufacturers stop spending money on car advertisement and promotional campaign? Labels: Car-Advertisements, Car-Manufacturers, Indian-car-market, J.D-Power-Asia, New-Cars
Monday, 15 September 2008
With so many new cars coming to the Indian car market, Hyundai is also busy is producing a new premium sedan for the country. Speculations in the air murmur that the proposed new car will christened as i40. The first launch of ‘I’ series by Hyundai was i10, a car that is successfully running on Indian roads. Thereafter, the company introduced the most fuel-efficient kappa engine in the car to make the car more reliable with better fuel economy. Driven by the positive response of Hyundai i10, the company decided to launch another i-series car christened as i20. The new car is expected to launch by the end of this year, expected to create a benchmark in the Indian car market. Now, when the company is almost near the launch of i-20, Hyundai is in plans to roll out another i-series, codenamed i-40. But, this new car will not follow the hatchback trend; it will be an exciting premium sedan. The exterior appeal of i-40 is expected to be a blend of Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4. This is also said to be revamped version of the existing Hyundai Sonata. The car is to be launched in Korea in 2009 and is speculated to roll out in India in the next couple of months. Labels: Audi, Hyundai, Indian-car-market, Mercedes-Benz, New-Cars
Friday, 12 September 2008
As the low-cost mini game continues, Hyundai is the latest entrant of this game. This may be a micro battle for the car manufacturers who are racing to introduce the best car in the small segment. The company plans to produce its low-cost small car with support from its own facility set up in Hyderabad. The new small car from Hyundai is expected to compete with Tata Nano in all aspects. Hyundai has studied the deep core massive Indian market to make its car suitable, affordable and feasible for the Indian buyers. Hyundai has also studied the minds of Indian customers so that it can make better cars with improved driving conditions, styling cues and other features. Apart from Nano, the company also plans to beat other micro-offerings from Toyota, Fiat, Baja-Renault, Volkswagen and even General Motors. The new car will be designed exclusively for the Indian market. With this, the number of new cars in the industry is increasing at a faster pace. So, after Hyundai, how many more small and low-cost cars are expected to hit the Indian car market? Labels: Low-Cost-Car, New-Cars, Tata-Nano
 Open the doors and peep into Fiat 500. Trust, you’ll be amazed! Ardently designed Fiat 500 is an iconic brand of the Italian design produced by Fiat. This new car took complete 50 years to make its debut in the Indian market with a fun, sporty, refined, vintage and attractive look. The time span was much enough for Fiat Style Centre to introduce a small legendry with innumerable possible combinations. The cute compact with soft rounded styling is now here. It’s time for you to peep in and bask in the luxurious and comfortable interiors. The first impression when you enter the car is like meeting few old friends wrapped with modern styling in a grand trendy party.  The interiors are just glamorous and dynamic, delivering a sense of joy, pride and love to the car owner. The center of attraction is the stylish and neat instrumentation behind the multi-functional steering wheel. Various dials, controls and buttons are arranged in concentric circles around the bright and cheerful central information panel. Under the panel echoes the climate control functions. Everything in the dash is organized in a circular form that symbolizes completeness of the car. Now, turn your face and gaze the car seats. Luxury and beautiful leather upholstery are there in two attractive tone shades, making the seats and ambience more appealing and comfortable, just enough to brighten any journey. Even though the price of this coupe is high, outstanding colours, trims, features, and accessories make Fiat’s iconic car a great success in the Indian car market. So, how was the joy of meeting your old friends in a party like you were never invited before? Labels: Car-Market, Fiat-500, New-Cars
Monday, 8 September 2008
The competition in the Indian car market has made the going tough for every car manufacturer. All auto majors are on the verge of rolling out new cars and this time its time for the famed Toyota. Finally, the New Toyota Corolla Altis makes its debut in the Indian car market. The car will create a completely new market in the C segment. The new Corolla Altis is powered by a 1.8L engine churning out around 140bhp. The new car is ardently designed with elegant and styling features. The car's body is slightly lower than the existing Corolla and taller than Honda Civic. Some of the most enticing features of the new Altis are automatic transmission with sequential shift, 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, cruise control; steering wheel mounted audio controls and choice of luxurious leather upholstery. Priced between Rs 10.83 lakh and Rs 12.86 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Corolla Altis is available in three grades of petrol version. So, wake up Toyota fans, its time for you to drive your new Corolla. Labels: Car-Manufacturer, Indian-car-market, New-Cars, Toyota, Toyota- Corolla-Altis
Tuesday, 26 August 2008
It’s high time that Maruti should shift its small car portfolio to high performance sedans and retain its supremacy in the country. Maruti started the production of its small and beautiful Maruti 800 past 25 years. It was one of the earliest cars in India after the Fiat Padmini and Ambassador. The car was the best during that period and was highly competitive in terms of performance, comfort and drivability. But now, the time has changed. Today, Indian car market is predominated with a vast number of hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs and MUVs. With so many new cars coming in, the old cars are gradually moving out of the industry. Fiat Padmini is already overpowered by various other Fiat models and the old Ambassador has been replaced by new features including the new engine technology. Now, it’s the turn for Maruti 800. The Maruti 800 is still running successfully on Indian roads but how long will this small car run? Today Maruti Motors is associated with a sturdy, stylish and elegant car like Maruti SX4, the sizzling compacts Maruti Swift and Maruti Alto. Maruti cars are having a tough competition within themselves. Alto is competing with 800, eventually slowing down the sale of 800. However, Maruti has the best-in-class technology in all its car models that make Maruti cars a better option. But then, 800 has to drive out to give way to next generation cars. Labels: Maruti-Cars, New-Cars, Small-Cars
Monday, 25 August 2008
Every car manufacture is on the verge of rolling out the new version of the existing model. Recently, Nissan Motors unveiled the latest generation of Nissan Teana at the Beijing Auto Show and very soon Indian roads will also experience the new Teana. The new car is much bigger and spacious and pampers the passengers with more luxury features like seat ventilation, indirect mood lighting and a floating heads up display giving total comfort. The car gets a V6 engine and is likely to carry the price tag of nearly Rs. 24 lakh. It is expected to give a tough competition to Honda Accord in terms of style and performance but losses out on the price front. But those who give importance to performance, style, and luxury than money….then the new Teana is the right choice! Labels: Commercial-Vehicles, New-Cars, Nissan-Motors
Wednesday, 20 August 2008
With so many car manufacturers reviving their expansion plans in India, Skoda is also planning to strengthen its presence in the most promising Indian car market. The company entered the Indian market with its successfully running, Skoda Octavia. Thereafter, it has launched Skoda Fabia, Skoda Luara and Skoda Superb. Now, the company plans to drive in eight new models in the next five years. The first target for the company is to launch a small cars priced below the tag price of Fabia. The company also has plans to roll out its prominent cars Yeti and Roomster hopefully in a couple of years. The new Skoda Superb is also expected to launch in early 2009 after its great success in Europe. The cars will be available with different price brackets for all type of customers. Not a bad move! Hope these models to get the same fame and success like other small cars in India. Labels: New-Cars, Skoda, Small-Cars
Wednesday, 6 August 2008
 Chevrolet is trying out different ways to please the Indian consumers and this time the special offer is tagged with the small and successful car from GM’s stable, the Chevrolet Spark. The new cars buyers will have a reason to smile as Spark will come at a special price for a limited period. The car will be available at a starting price of Rs 2.66 lakh for a limited period. The limited offer is the result of improved localization and the last date is yet to be decided. The ‘winker’ which is very popular among the younger crowd has sold more 20 lakh units in more than 100 markets across the world over last few years and has also won the "Best Value 2008" award for cars this year. So all new car buyers this is the best time to buy one. Hurry up! before the limited offer closes. Labels: Chevrolet-Spark, Hatchbacks, New-Cars
Tuesday, 5 August 2008
Tata is now all set to roll out its dream car, the Nano by October this year. The company has high ambitions to lure first time car buyers and two-wheelers. Tata has also established itself to beat the leading small cars from Maruti with increased production of the Nano. The company is excited for the launch but yet there is a dilemma after announcing the launch of the Tata variants that are expected to be better in all terms in comparison to the original Nano. Is this really going to affect the launch of Nano this year? Tata Motors has already acquired the Land Rover and Jaguar luxury brands from Ford Motors. Tata promises to increase the brand value and recognition of Land and Jaguar without shifting production operations from their own facilities. After the great Nano launch, Tata has also announced to start over with the production of electric cars. The announcement of electric cars launch is credited to the urgent need of fuel efficient cars with reduced emissions and high mileage. The company plans to market and sell the electric vehicle overseas as well. Tata also plans at reviving the lost image of Daimler brand presently owned by Jaguar. In short, Tata is moving ahead with high ambitions and determination to expand the car portfolios in all segments of the Indian car market. Tata is not willing to leave any segment untouched. Labels: Nano, New-Cars, Tata-Motors
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
BMW rejoices its success with the launch of 530d in India. The five series of BMW is a big threat for the age old Mercedes-Benz in India. The BMW has created a competitive platform of luxury cars in a span of two years. The f\5 series of BMW is not as old as the existence of Mercedes-Benz in India. Yet, BMW is seen to be ahead in the race. The new 530d is available with more efficient engine, enhanced horsepower, and advanced safety technologies coupled with BMW’s USP (Unique selling point), Night Vision. This premium segment sedan is powered by six common diesel rail engine (CRDi) that generates 235bhp. The company has also introduced two other variants of the car, 520d and 530d Highline. All the car models launched have the highest standards of all-round quality, safety measures coupled with highest levels of comfort and luxury. These new car models are also available in a rainbow of vibrant and sophisticated colours. Labels: BMW-Cars, Mercedes-Benz, New-Cars
Mahindra & Mahindra and Renault currently hold a share of 51:49 in the partnership. This partnership was signed between both the companies for manufacturing and retailing their most leading car, the Logan. But now, with the increasing pressures and challenges, the joint venture desires to extend their retailing partnership to sell Renault’s future cars. Mahindra has no recent plans to introduce more cars to India. That’s the reason why the company is willing to extend the partnership with Renault to market the upcoming Renault’s car. Mahindra is keen to make the Mahindra-Renault centre as the distribution network to sell Renault’s new cars. The new cars are expected to be launched from Chennai in the next two years. The negotiated partnership between the two companies will be used to sell those cars under the brand of Mahindra-Renault Ltd. Will Renault agree to the partnership? Will Renault share its success of the proposed cars with Mahindra? Any guesses? Labels: cars-India, Mahindra and Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, New-Cars
 Maruti Suzuki SX4 and Fiat's Sedici are twins from the same platform residing in different countries. The Sedici is a sports utility vehicle designed and manufactured by the Joint Venture between Suzuki and Fiat mainly for the European market. The car was expected to launch in India as well but the success of SX4 in India has blocked the market for Sedici in the country. Sedici was expected to replace the SX4 in India. Initially, the Maruti had plans to introduce almost 60,000 units of SX4 to the country, out of which two-thirds to be sold by Suzuki and the rest by Fiat. But fortunately, SX4 has been a great hit in the mid-size sedan market. The company is also successful in attracting customers with a recent upgrade offer of Rs 25,000 exchange bonus. The Sedici is doing great in the native Italian market. Fiat was also planning to launch Sedici in South Africa but then the company changed its intention because the South African market is already dominated with the SX4. Eventually, the joint venture between the Fiat and Suzuki decided to launch the twins in different countries. Labels: Fiat-Sedici, Maruti-SX4, New-Cars
Monday, 28 July 2008
 Driven by the changing face of the Indian car industry, Maruti is compelled to change the face of its pioneer car, the Maruti 800. The Maruti 800 is a hot selling Maruti car but unfortunately new entry in the car market has brought down the sales. To give a new life to 800 sales, the Maruti Suzuki Motors has rolled out a facelift model of Maruti 800, named as the Maruti Suzuki 800 Uniq. The car is launched with a keen desire to lure customers who love ‘uniq’ things. The whole new avatar of the Maruti 800 is embodied with a host of attractive features like trendy door trims with fabric patch, all-new beige upholstery, smart lower console box, rear package tray and excellent body graphics. The Uniq will be costlier by Rs 5200 over the regular model and will be available in all Maruti showrooms by August 4, 2008. The company has introduced a limited edition of Uniq to judge the response of the car consumers nationwide. Labels: Maruti-Suzuki, New-Cars, Small-Cars
Friday, 25 July 2008
One more jump in the electric car segment. Pininfarina, the Italian design house plans to roll out electric cars to India. The design house is a known designer of the Ferrari cars and Tata Indica. The launch date is still not announced. The renowned car design company is planning to manufacture the cars first for the European market which is expected to get the cars by 2010. For the next four years, the company would judge the response of the car in the market. It is expecting to reach the sale target of 15,000 units by 2014 in Europe and US. After achieving the sales target, the company will roll the car in India and other countries. But if the expected target is not achieved, the launch might get delayed or even vice versa. The projected date is likely to be altered depending on the achievement of the target. The cars will be designed at Pininfarina’s facility in Italy. The electric car will cover a range of 250 km in one full charge, almost double of what Reva Maini offers. Driven by such a high range, will Pininfarina beat Maini in India? It’s still a long way to go, nothing can be claimed. Just wait and watch. Labels: Electric-Cars, Maini-Reva, New-Cars
With the hassles of inflation and hikes, the car market in India is facing a tough time. The first quarter of the fiscal year has brought agony in the market. In India, car prices are now observing a next hike in all the car models. Increasing raw material cost is compelling car manufacturers to go for regular hike in car prices. First time, the car prices were raised in January by almost 3%, next time the prices were raised in May-June by almost 4% and now this month is experiencing the third round of price hike. This time the reason for increase is the high cost of all metals used in the automotive industry. Prices for aluminium, copper, nickel, plastic, steel and rubber have increased all of sudden, resulting in more input prices. This has eventually forced all car manufacturers to raise their car prices. The net turnover of the average cost of raw materials has gone up to almost 74% from about 69% within two years. Apart from increasing manufacturing costs, the industry is also facing problems with oil shortage, to be increased road tax and many more factors that are actually hampering the growth and success of Indian car industry. The expected increase of car prices is about Rs 5000 for small cars and Rs 12,000 for the luxury brand models. The price of the Honda City has already been increased by Rs 15,000 and the new Honda Accord by Rs 30,000. Maruti and General Motors are trying to evaluate their best option to provide the affordable price to their customers. Labels: Car-Manufacturers, Indian-car-industry, New-Cars
Thursday, 24 July 2008
Volkswagen made a later entry in India. At this period of time, Indian car industry is affected with high inflation and rising loan interest. Volkswagen wonders whether the company will be successful in establishing a niche in the Indian market. After the launch of Volkswagen Jetta, the company plans a slew of launches in order to strengthen its presence in the country. The iconic car, the Beetle, belongs to the passenger car segment is coming soon in the market. The car will be imported as completely built unit. Driven by the positive impact of Beetle on other cars, Volkswagen takes the launch as a brand building exercise. After Beetle, the company is planning to launch a compact car based on the Polo platform in both hatchbacks and sedan variants. Volkswagen is also in the process to extend its embankment on major dealership across the country. The company is receiving good response for Volkswagen Passat and the newly launched Jetta. In turn, the company has similar expectations from the proposed car launch. Will Volkswagen be successful in strengthening its presence in the Indian car market? Labels: New-Cars, Volkswagen, Volkswagen-Passat
Tata Motors Ltd. has join hands with Italy’s Fiat SpA to sell its ultra-low cost car the Nano overseas. Fiat has a strong presence in international market and that’s the reason why Tata Motors want Fiat to sell its dream car. Ratan Tata has a keen desire to spread the reach of his new car across the globe. This desire attracts him towards Fiat Motors so that the Nano is well marketed in various countries other than India. Fiat has signed a joint venture with Tata to make and distribute Tata car, engines and commercial units overseas. Tata has high hopes from this joint venture. The sluggish car sales have depressed Ratan Tata at the time when he is just about to roll out his dream car. Even with the challenges offered by high inflation, interest rates and to be increased road tax, Tata is expecting from the proposed car, the Nano, to bring out a good market for the company in India as well as overseas. Hope the join venture goes in favour of the Nano and further aid to boost up the sales. Labels: Nano, New-Cars, Tata-Motors
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Volkswagen launches its most desired car Jetta in India. The car holds true for the slogan, Volkswagen has used for Jetta, “The people want safety standards to be standard”. Jetta is a car equipped with all standard and advanced safety features. The car is priced between Rs 12.97 - 16.67 lakh. The launch of the new car was accompanied by a glittering celebration. The Jetta will be a tough competitor in the lower D segment. The car is expected to be a great competitor for Skoda Laura and Skoda Octavia. Jetta is styled with elegance and loaded with heart rendering interiors including Vienna leather upholstery, 2-zone electronic climate control, 6-CD changer, electric lumbar adjust. Jetta is available both in petrol and diesel version with 1.6L petrol and 1.9 L diesel engines, respectively. The three variants available are Magna, Sports and Asta that are priced between Rs 12.97 and Rs 14.22 lakh. The standard safety features loaded in Jetta are 8 airbags, ABS (Anti-lock brake system) and ESP that enhances the safety of its occupants. The launch of Jetta is expected to be followed by a range of compact cars, hatchbacks and commercial vehicles in India. Labels: jetta, New-Cars, Volkswagen
All sports car enthusiast! Be ready to quench your thirst for race cars with Audi’s new R8 model. The German luxury car manufacturer is all set to launch its sporty R8 model in India by autumn this year. This exclusive model combines incomparable high performance, unique design and include features for day-to-day drivability. The car comes with 420 hp of its 4.2 V8-FSI engine and has aluminum frame body. It just matches up with its body shape and provides more varieties of choices to customize interiors according to the customer’s druther. Wow! It’s a cool option. India has been a significant market for Audi and there is a marvelous interest for the Audi by the Indian car buyers. First customer pre-orders are already placed at Audi dealerships in India. The car has already won several awards in Germany and Europe along with a double triumph at the 2008 World Car of the year awards like “World Performance Car” and the `World Car Design of the Year’. Do you think the car will be to make a similar impression in India? Well, we have to wait till its roll out for Indian roads. Labels: Audi, New-Cars, Sport-Car
Thursday, 26 June 2008
Six new cars are coming to lure the Indian consumers from Toyota’s portfolio. The expected models will belong to different car segments including compact sedan, hatchback, diesel and SUV. Toyota is willing to have its car battle with other car models in their respective segments. The first launch among the six models would be a compact sedan powered by a 1.3L engine has a desire to compete with Tata Indigo CS and Maruti Suzuki’s Swift Dzire. Other models would be hatchbacks and sedans in competition with Suzuki’s Swift and Hyundai’s Getz. The next generation of Corolla is expected to roll in by September this year and diesel corolla in 2010. The company also has plans to drive Fortuner SUV, with a price tag of Rs 16 lakhs, to the Indian market in 2009. So many cars! It would be really difficult to judge the best car in this portfolio. Labels: New-Cars, Toyota-Cars
Tuesday, 24 June 2008
Racing and Racing! Where will the road end? Earlier, Indian car manufacturers were racing for the cheapest cars and now speeding for hybrids. After the launch of Honda Civic Hybrid, Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have also made a high jump on the hybrid bandwagon. Tata and Mahindra are with head and heart involved in producing exclusive hybrid cars using indigenous technology at a very low tax burden. It is believed that these homegrown hybrids will come at a comparatively low cost price. Tata Motors is planning to launch a hybrid of petrol and diesel in its flagship model Indica. The improved version of electric technology will be also seen in a range of Indica and Indigo cars. Simultaneously, Mahindra is working on innovative technology of blending electronics, battery, powerdrive and software to produce a completely new range of hybrid cars. All these cars of Tata and Mahindra are expected to roll out in the next three years – So get ready to wear the green conscience. Labels: Hybrid-Cars, New-Cars
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The 2010 Beijing Auto Show that began just the other was open to the press on Friday. We did give our readers a preview of the Beijing show. Today, we have something more. Almost all car makers are grabbing their share of the emerging markets and what can be better than the 2010 Beijing Auto show if any of them is interested in capturing the Chinese car buyer’s mind? Today, we bring to you details of the Italian super sports car maker Lamborghini.
The engine output increase from 640 to 670 bhp was due to optimized valve timing and a reworked intake system. The significantly modified aerodynamics with substantially increased downforce enhances car stability even at very high speeds. The large "Aeropack Wing" and its added downforce give a top speed of 337 km/h.
