Ford Figo wins indian car of the year

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JK Tyre, in association with the top auto magazines in India, today presented the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry - the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2011 and the Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2011 (IMOTY).  In line with the American Car of the Year, European Car of the Year and Japanese Car of the Year, these awards are at par with international standards and are the most prestigious auto awards of the country.

The nominees were judged by a panel of senior automobile experts who got together to vote for the most impressive car and motorcycle of the year. Using their analytic skills and competence, the expert jury evaluated and tested the cars and motorcycles nominated. The voting system is very fair and transparent which makes the ICOTY and IMOTY amongst the most credible and coveted awards.

Ford Figo was conferred with the Indian Car of the Year 2011 and Honda CB Twister bagged the Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2011.

Congratulating the winners of ICOTY & IMOTY, Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. said, “We are here to celebrate the achievements of the Indian automobile industry and to honour the focused and rigorous efforts made by auto makers in the areas of Design excellence and innovation and R&D. The ‘Indian Car of the Year’ and ‘Indian Motorcycle of the Year’ awards recognize the auto manufacturer with the highest level of performance in terms of product development, quality, timely delivery, competitive pricing, project management and customer service.”

The cars and motorcycles nominated were judged on various parameters such as price, fuel efficiency, design, comfort, safety, manoeuvrability, performance, functionality, environmental responsibility and driver/rider satisfaction among others. In addition, technical innovation and value for money were particularly important factors while deciding on the winner. 

Cars and motorcycles that have had cosmetic facelifts or small mechanical changes like different power or drive trains, do not qualify for these awards. The country of origin does not matter, but they have to be sold in showrooms in India before 30th November of the previous year and should have been homologated for Indian type approval.

“The Indian Car of the Year award reflects India’s standing in the global automotive market. It recognizes the efforts made by manufacturers to give us Indians the cars that have been engineered with us in mind. Over six years, the ICOTY award has grown in stature and today, it’s something that all car manufacturers in India aspire for,” said Srinivas Krishnan, Editor, Business Standard Motoring and Chairman, ICOTY 2011.

On winning the ICOTY award Michael Boneham, President& MD, Ford India said, "Coming close on the heels of the Figo's immense popularity with over 58,000 units sold in past eight months, this industry-wide recognition truly establishes it as a performance car. The critical acclaim from the experts reinforces the faith in Figo as one of the best products in its class available today.”

The esteemed jury for ICOTY comprised Bob Rupani and Gautam Sen from Auto India, Sirish Chandran and Bertrand D’Souza from Overdrive, Girish Karkera and Sriram Narayanan from Top Gear, Aspi Bhathena from Car India, Srinivas Krishnan and Pablo Chaterji from Business Standard Motoring and Yogendra Pratap and Vikrant Singh from Auto Bild.

The jury of IMOTY included Bertrand D'Souza and Shubhabrata Marmar from Overdrive, Girish Karkera and Debabrata Sarkar from Top Gear, Aspi Bhathena from Bike India, Pablo Chaterji from Business Standard Motoring and Vikrant Singh from Auto Bild. This 13-member specialist jury consisting of senior Indian automotive journalists is the best from the industry and together they have over 300 years of experience.

In the ICOTY Category, while Ford Figo emerged as the clear winner with 83 points, Volkswagen Vento came second with 57 points. There was a tie for the third spot between Volkswagen polo and Skoda Yeti with 37 points.

There was a close clash between the top three motorcycles in the IMOTY category. Honda CB Twister won with 66 points while giving close competition was Bajaj Pulsar 135 LS with 63 points. TVS Jive was in third position with 48 points.

The finalists for the ICOTY category this year were Chevrolet Beat, Ford Figo, Maruti Suzuki Wagon R, Nissan Micra, Skoda Yeti, Tata Aria, Volkswagen Polo and Volkswagen Vento. The finalists for the IMOTY category were Bajaj Pulsar 135LS, Bajaj Discover 150, Honda CB Twister, Mahindra Stallio, TVS Jive and TVS Max4R.

India’s youngest F1 driver Karun Chandhok and India’s youngest karting champion Jehan Daruvala were also present at the award ceremony. Famous celebrity, Sophie Chowdhury added glitz and glamour to the award ceremony and enthralled the audiences with her mind-blowing performance.

Ford Figo discover drive

Technorati Tags: ford,figo,discover,drive,india

Discover Smart Drive across India in October, you have encouraged and supported us to make this a big success. We would like to better this success and create more opportunities for more people to have fun driving the Figo. Due to popular demand, we have decided to conduct the Discover Smart Drive at a regional level and we would like to begin with Kerala – God’s own country.

One lucky couple from Kerala will drive the special Figo, painted by renowned anchor and artist Harun Robert, across 600kms on a 5 day journey across Calicut, Trissur, Kochi, and Kottayam, and Trivandrum. During the journey, the lucky couple will get a lifetime opportunity to discover Smart things about the Figo along with exploring tourist destinations across Kerala and attending special events organized by Ford dealerships.

If you are keen to explore Kerala in a SMART way, here is your chance again to get selected for this drive. All you need to do is fill up and submit this The contest is open till Saturday, Dec 11, 2010 midnight. You might ask why such a short time. The reason is that this December is a special month for Ford. Having reached several milestones and in the middle of its unique promotion December Dhamaal, we would like to keep those spirits up and want the most active online Ford Figo fans from Kerala to get the maximum chance to participate in the drive. This contest is open to young couples, online, from Kerala who are adventure seekers and love driving. We will open up to couples from other States in the coming Discover Smart Drives.

Hurry up. There is less than 24 hours left.

India’s first online automotive store launched by Vicky.in

Chennai, 29 November, 2010: Vicky.in – India’s leading auto portal has launched India’s first online automotive store. “www.vicky.in/shopping” is designed to meet the needs of car and bike owners across India. Customers can buy branded car seat covers, security systems, scale models,GPS systems,car stickers, sun control films, car infotainment systems, body kits, car laptop chargers, car care products and merchandises. Bike owners can buy their favourite helmet brands,riding gears, lifestyle products and more. Icing on the cake is new products are being to the store added to the store everyday. Customers can also suggest their desired products to vicky.in team.

“Apart from home or workplace, customers spend most of their time in a car/bike. Right from the age of ambassadors, Indian customer always decorate the cars as their living room. But the unorganized sector makes the shopping cumbersome even for auto enthusiast. Lack of availability of reliable products often makes the customers to pay premium price or to settle with low quality kits. Vicky.in/shopping offers everything one would aspire for – Stanley seat covers to Glade sport car perfumes, Sparx helmets to Alpinestars riding gears. Our tie-up with best courier services makes delivery of products at customers doorstep on time.”said Karthick Annamalai,Co-Founder of Vicky.in.

“Indian automotive aftermarket is highly unorganized and scattered, with the Vicky.in online store, customers from remote corners of india will get access to branded products. Vicky.in offers guaranteed lowest prices on all car and bike accessories” said Vignesh Annamalai, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Vicky.in.

Vicky.in shopping features the best automotive after market brands – Stanley seat covers, Mapmyindia navigation devices, Xenos car security systems, Maisto car scale models, JVC car audio system, Garware Sun control film and Vega helmets. Customers can also buy merchandises from their favourite manufacturers. Vicky.in offers best customer care services through Live chat, Telephone and Mail based support. Vicky.in has been pioneering the car and bike needs of Indian customers. With the new online automotive store, it is all set to achieve new heights.

Shopping link: http://vicky.in/shopping/

Rane NSK steering limited

Rane NSK Steering Systems Limited (RNSSL) is a 50:50 Joint Venture (JV) between the Rane Holdings Limited and NSK Ltd., Japan, supplying steering columns to the automobile sector for the past 12 years. RNSSL started commercial production of manual steering column (MSC) at its Chennai plant in 1998. Another state-of-the-art Electric Power Steering (EPS) column plant was established at Bawal in 2008. The products manufactured by RNSSL are technology intensive and safety critical.  RNSSL leverages on NSK’s strength on technology, design and R&D support.

Taking cognizance of the changing dynamics of the market, technology advancement in the Indian Auto component industry and for providing better service to customers from technology and cost optimization angles, Rane Holdings Limited has agreed to transfer 1% of its shareholding in RNSSL to NSK. Accordingly, effective November 30, 2010 the shareholding of Rane Holdings Limited in RNSSL has become 49% and the shareholding of NSK has become 51%.

Majority shareholding in RNSSL held by NSK will enhance its commitment to the Indian market, its global customers and would facilitate quicker response to customer needs in terms of value added products and latest technology. This is a major step in taking the relationship between the JV partners to the next level and would gear RNSSL to meeting the challenges in the evolving auto industry. 

DISCOVERY Turbo TAKES ON TO THE FIFTH GEAR

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Are you looking for reliable automotive advice or latest information on technological advances in concept cars? Discovery Turbo presents a whirlwind of automobile news, top trends, vehicle reviews and investigative reports in its new series FIFTH GEAR. Premiering every Monday at 9 pm from November 29, a team of experts will test drive the latest, most talked-about automobiles from around the world and share with viewers interesting information any motor enthusiast would expect from this informative series.

Commenting on the series, Rahul Johri, senior vice president & general manager, India, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific said “FIFTH GEAR and its panel of fast and furious experts provide viewers with the most current information in the motoring world. This series promises more facts than ever before about the new cars using a mix of stunts and challenges that push cars and presenters to their limits. A fantastic series, it is bound to entertain all the speed enthusiasts in the most dynamic way.”

The programme gives latest updates, technological advances in concept cars, automobile auctions, determine whether premium fuel can actually make cars go faster and test drives the sleekest vehicles in the world.

Join the team of experts, Tiff, Vicki, Adrian, Quentin and Tom, as they lend their advice to the viewers. From super cars and sports utility vehicles to hatchbacks and hybrids, these experts review some of the recently launched cars and analyse second hand bargains. They also express their viewpoints on a variety of driving issues involving road safety and taxation while dishing out practical and reliable advice.

From test driving the new Mini Cooper S and examining the trend among celebrities to purchase large SUVs to profiling the new Lamborghini Murcielago, this series is for anyone who has a passion for petrol power. The programme looks back over the years and brings together the top ten supercars including the Pagani Zonda C12S, Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, Mclaren F1, Aston Martin DBS, Corvette Z06, Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Mclaren Mercedes SLR, Ford GT and the fastest road car in the world - the Bugatti Veyron. Going a step back, the show also provides an exclusive insight into the incredible factories where these cars are built - the sort of access which is off limits to the public. Places like the McLaren Technology Centre and the French chateau where the Bugatti Veyron is assembled.

In the series, the team test drive eco-friendly cars like the G-Wizz electric car and Lotus’ bio-fuel powered Exige 265E. They also take a spin on the world’s most powerful production motorbike, the Kawazaki ZZR1400 and create a new World Land Speed Record for driving a car powered only by chip fat oil. FIFTH GEAR has some adrenaline pumping exhibits like driving a car on two wheels, learning how to park in an impossibly small gap using a handbrake turn and making a James Bond ejector seat.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM EPISODES:

·         Tiff Needell and Vicki Butler-Henderson are shocked at how easily a 4x4 will roll over in an emergency avoidance maneuver they stage with real cars and a stunt man. Then they indulge in test driving some of the most exciting cars of the year, including the Pagani Zonda. Tiff explores the new Renault Clio V6 -- a tiny car with an enormous engine.

·         Tiff Needell tests the new Lamborghini Murcielago and finds it slightly less inspiring than previous Lamborghini models. Quentin Wilson examines prices of classic cars and Vicki Butler-Henderson meets a man who has spent quite a bit to make his Nissan Sunny the fastest of its kind.

·         Tiff Needell tests the latest car to join the exclusive club of road cars capable of going over 200 miles per hour -- the new McLaren Mercedes SLR. Jason Plato reports on the new Ford Focus. Vicki Butler-Henderson reports on the latest assault on the pocket of the beleaguered British motorist. Tom Ford tests Land Rover’s new third generation Discovery.

·         The new Nissan Micra is cute and cuddly, but how well does it perform? Viewers get behind the driver's seat of James Bond's latest Aston Martin and take a Bentley onto a drag strip. Finally, do haunted cars really exist?

·         Explore Tiff Needell’s and Adrian Simpson’s journey to the secret laboratory that the world's leading car armor company uses for weapons testing. They also race an armored Range Rover. The Aston Martin DB7 is one of the world's most beautiful cars, but will Tiff Needell find the new GT version appealing? Also Tom Ford travels to Iceland and cruises up the Europe's biggest glacier in a Toyota Landcruiser.

About Discovery Turbo

Discovery Turbo is a unique channel dedicated to all things motored. Offering adrenaline-fuelled entertainment for those who love the thrill of speed, Discovery Turbo brings viewers along for the ride to experience the most exciting vehicles on Earth. From cars, trucks and motorbikes to planes, trains and everything in between, Discovery Turbo celebrates all aspects of speed by covering a range of inspirational and practical topics including the history, science and engineering of everything motored; car, boat, bike and air shows; Formula One racing; DIY; car clubs and motoring trends.

Dr John Chacko appointed as the new Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India

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Dr Chacko’s experience and expertise in the Indian auto industry will add great value as the company enters its tenth year in India / Dr Chacko: “It has been an enriching experience being a part of Volkswagen’s India journey through the initial build-up phase and I am confident of successfully steering the Group towards establishing a prominent presence in the Indian automotive market.”

Pune, November 25, 2010: The Volkswagen Group has announced the appointment of Dr John Chacko as the new Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India and President and Managing Director, Volkswagen India Private Limited, with effect from December 1, 2010. Dr John Chacko (58) has played a significant role in the operations of the Volkswagen Group in India as the Technical Managing Director of Volkswagen India. He succeeds Mr Joerg Mueller (48), who has recently moved on to a new responsibility at the newly formed Volkswagen Group Trucks Division.

An engineer with a B. Tech degree from IIT Madras, Dr John Chacko has been a part of the Volkswagen Group since 1978. Previously, as Technical Project Leader for Volkswagen’s Project India, the Delhi-born Dr Chacko played a key-role in the decision making process towards Volkswagen Board’s resolution to take the step into the Indian Market with a full-fledged production base. He has played a key role in the successful setting-up of the Group’s production facility near Pune in the Chakan Industrial Park. His experience and expertise in the Indian auto industry will add great value as the company enters its tenth year in India.

Speaking on his new responsibility, Dr Chacko said, “I am excited as well as looking forward to the challenges in my new role. India is a strategic long-term growth market for the Volkswagen Group. It has been an enriching experience being a part of Volkswagen’s India journey through the initial build-up phase and I am confident of successfully steering the Group towards establishing a prominent presence in the Indian automotive market with the support of every member of the Volkswagen India family.”

A crucial element of the Volkswagen strategy to establish a long-term presence in India, the investment with a total sum of around INR 3,800 crores (580 million Euros) is the biggest investment of a German company realized in India so far. The plant has a production capacity of 110,000 vehicles a year which will be maximized by 2011, producing three models- the Volkswagen Polo, the Volkswagen Vento and the Skoda Fabia. The construction of the plant commenced in 2007 and has been built in a record time of 17 months. In June 2010, Volkswagen India celebrated the roll-out of the 10,000th car from the plant. Dr Chacko: “Ever since the entry of the Volkswagen Group in India we have achieved numerous milestones and will accelerate our growth in India over the next few years.”

Prior to his appointment as Technical Project Leader of the Feasibility Volkswagen Project India in 2006, Dr. Chacko held various positions within the Volkswagen Group globally. He started his career at AUDI AG as an engineer in Logistics Planning way back in 1978. He went on to become the head of the Department and Director of AUDI’s Logistics Operations. Following his engineering background he changed to the AUDI AG Manufacturing Engineering Division and headed the In-sourcing and Overseas Production Department. Responding to a call from the Volkswagen Group, Dr. John Chacko was transferred to SEAT SA in Spain as Director of Manufacturing Engineering with the task of integrating SEAT into the Volkswagen Group from the Engineering and Production System point of view. His return to AUDI AG as Director of the Manufacturing Engineering Division in year 2000 coincided with the launch preparation of a firework of new products at the AUDI AG.

BMW India rolls out 10000th car

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“It is a moment of great pride and joy for us at BMW Plant Chennai to roll-out the 10000th car made in India. The BMW Plant Chennai team is very excited with the achievement of this milestone in less than four years and looks forward to fulfil the increasing demand for BMW cars in India. BMW production is characterized by people that consider quality not only a task, but first and foremost a core attribute. I am convinced that our employees here at BMW Plant Chennai will make a great contribution in strengthening our company’s long-term success in India”, said Mr. Juergen Eder, Managing Director, BMW Plant Chennai.

On 29 March 2007, BMW India officially opened its production plant in Chennai. The BMW Plant Chennai produces the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series sedans in petrol and diesel variants. By end of 2010, BMW Plant Chennai will also start producing the BMW X1. The BMW Plant Chennai has the capacity to produce 5400 units per year on a single shift basis. BMW India will employ around 400 people by end of 2010. Till September 2010, BMW Group has invested 1.1 billion Indian Rupees. BMW Group’s investment in India will be increased to 1.8 billion Indian Rupees by the end of 2012.

Headquartered in Gurgaon (National Capital Region), BMW India is a 100% subsidiary of the BMW Group. The wide range of BMW activities in India include the establishment of a production plant in Chennai (Tamil Nadu), a central spare parts warehouse in Mumbai (Maharashtra) and development of a dealer organisation across major metropolitan centres of the country.

Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Andreas Schaaf, President, BMW India said “Having taken the lead in the premium segment for the first time last year, we aim to maintain our leading position in the Indian market by now embarking on the second wave of our India strategy. We are confident that we will be able to increase sales substantially over the coming years with exciting new products, now produced in India and the ongoing expansion of our dealer network to reach out to more of our potential buyers.”

BMW India has set a decisive course in India by setting up BMW dealerships of international standards across all metropolitan centres of the country. In 2011, BMW India will aggressively expand its dealer network by increasing the number of outlets to 22 across major metropolitan centres and emerging markets in India (from the present 18 outlets). Up to 1200 jobs will be created in the dealer and service network. 

Unfair Nissan dealer

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I am quoting below two such instances for your reference where customers have been put to inconvenience and emotional harassment with unreasonable demands like unreasonable premiums, etc.

For instance, Mr. Ashutosh Varma who booked Nissan Micra XE Orange Color in October was supposed to get his vehicle delivered on November 14th, 2010 as promised by the dealer. The customer paid few installments and now at the time of delivery, the company/ dealer advice him to look for some another model and color and pay Rs.50,000/- extra since the model and color he earlier booked for is not available. It is suspected that the dealer has passed his car to some other customer and playing games with him by making false promises and harassing him.

I have attached the documents for your reference.

The another instance, is of Mr. Rahul Sharma who booked Maruti Swift Dzire from Saya Motors, GT Karnal Road and paid full payment at one go. The dealer promised him to deliver the car within one month but at the time of delivery he was indirectly asked to pay Rs.25,000-30,000/- extra mentioning the reasons such as delay in delivery from the head office (Gurgaon), transportation facility, so on and so forth. Fortunately, the victim had some good connections with the intellectuals and wrote a mail to the General Manager, North India of Maruti; with the help of which he got his desired car after two months.

Please suggest if you would like to speak to the concerned customers.

I would be really happy if the story comes out in the open for the general public to see. This could probably help bring in to force some strict rules & regulations  that would make it mandatory for dealers to honor their commitments enabling the customers to get their desired vehicles as promised.

Honda launches City executive variant

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Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched an 'Exclusive' variant of the Honda City, with several new interior and exterior luxury features.

The introduction of the exclusive variant is a step further in Honda’s commitment of providing something special to Honda loyalists during the festival period.

The new variant is an addition to the City line-up, offering a distinctive combination of refined styling and high quality. The additions of leather seats & leather steering in MT & AT and leather gear shift knob (only in MT) enhances the feeling of luxury and elegance of the car.

Adding to the stylish and trendy look of the car is a Chrome trunk garnish and Chrome door sash moulding along with an 'Exclusive' rear badge and Body coloured mud flaps that enhances the ownership experience of the Honda City 'Exclusive'.

With this, the Honda City range also gets a new colour- Urban Titanium - apart from the existing colours- Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver, Crystal Black Pearl, Bold Beige Metallic and Habanero Red.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tatsuya Natsume, Director Marketing, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. said, “Honda City is one of the most successful and desirable brands in the country. The ‘exclusive’ variant is aimed at further delighting our customers with exclusive luxurious features during this festival period.”

The current Honda City is a winner of 12 Auto Awards including the most prestigious ‘Indian Car of the Year 2009’ (ICOTY) Award. The new Honda City’s instant success is testified by the fact that it has sold nearly 54,000 units since its launch in September last year.

Price of the Honda City 'Exclusive':
V MT - Rs. 9.53 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)
V AT – Rs. 10.25 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

Passenger car export to double

Technorati Tags: india,passenger,car,export,growth

According to our latest research report “India Passenger Car Market Analysis”, India is emerging as a low automobile production base in the world. The cost advantage and technically strong assembling plant capacity enables India to export its passenger vehicles to other countries, including the most developed markets in Europe. Being an expert in small passenger car production, India is expecting high exports of small passenger cars in near future. Exports level is expected to touch the mark of 950000 units by 2013-14 over 442000 units in 2009-10. The report has analyzed factors responsible for this tremendous growth in export. The report has studied exports by segment and company.

We have found that the passenger cars contribute a major portion in the production of four-wheelers in the country. Due to various factors discussed in our report, manufacturers have increased their production in the last few years rather than importing vehicles from other countries. Despite global recession, production is expected to touch peaks in coming years because of new car launches in the market and the government support. The report has analyzed production by segments and company with future forecast for passenger car production till 2013-14.

Our research report “India Passenger Car Market Analysis”, says that reasons like growing number of middle class families and others will create favorable conditions for the sales of new passenger cars to increase quickly. Expansion of urban and sub-urban areas will also result into a high demand for comfort ride, thus escalating the sales. Especially, small passenger car sales will boost the overall passenger car sales in India. The report has studied factors responsible for this growth and provides future potential.

Our team of experts has found that on the back of strong fundamentals of domestic demand and the government support, auto manufacturers are quite optimistic about their capacity expansion plans. The report provides details about the passenger vehicle capacity installation till 2013. Besides, the report has identified a range of factors that are providing opportunities for green car segment. Our report has discussed the green car developments and mergers and acquisitions that took place. The report also covers segments such as, pricing, consumer behavior, and key players.

Volvo to launch XC60

Sharpening its product offering in India, Volvo Auto India is set to launch its much-awaited Volvo XC60. Packed with unique features including performance, advanced technologies, Scandinavian design and ownership experience will raise the bar in compact luxury SUV segment in India.

Mr. Paul de Voijs, Managing Director, Volvo Auto India said, “Volvo XC60 has received high appreciation across the world since its introduction because of its unparallel driving pleasure, contemporary styling, and advanced technological features. It has a sporty and dynamic exterior styling with soothing interior design.”

Standard Features

Laser and Camera assisted automatic braking- Unique in its segment
Applies brakes automatically to mitigate a collision if the driver does not respond in time

Hill Descent Control (HDC) for steep inclines - the only SUV in its segment to have this feature working on reverse gear as well
Hill Descent Control automatically controls the SUV’s speed when driving down steep slopes

Turn with Steering lights – Active Bending Lights - Unique in its segment
The Active Bending headlights with Dual Xenon technology expand the vision range by about 230 %

Power tailgate – Unique in its segment
One touch opening and closing of tailgate

Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C) – Unique in its segment
Volvo's FOUR-C function monitors the chassis' movements and allows the driver to choose between three settings, Comfort, Sport and Advanced

Haldex AWD (All Wheel Drive) with Instant TractionTM
Equipped with one of the best AWD systems, the Volvo XC60 offers best possible grip in any situation – Off-road, slippery road, city roads or the highway.

Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)
At the heart of Volvo's DSTC is a Gyroscope that detects the SUV’s roll rate and helps prevent fishtails, spin-outs and roll-overs.

D5 Diesel with 205 hp and 420 Nm
With the latest Twin Turbo and Peizo high-pressure technology, the inspiring five-cylinder state-of-art is high on performance and low on fuel consumption. A maintenance free diesel particulate filter effectively reduces soot particles in exhaust gases and advanced emission control contributes to low nitrogen oxide level.

Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Roll Stability Control is an active function that intervenes in situations when the SUV is exposed to forces that could cause it to roll over

Advanced braking technologies - Adaptive Brake lights; Ready Alert brakes; Hydraulic brake assist; ABS with Electronic brake force distribution

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

Optional Features

Collision Warning with Auto Brake alerts the driver
Collision Warning with Auto Brake alerts the driver if the distance to a vehicle ahead suddenly decreases. This system gives the driver a fair chance to avoid a collision

Adaptive Cruise Control also in slow queues
In the field of driving comfort, there are features such as the optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically maintains a set gap to the vehicle in front

A range of other features
• Driver Alert Control is a unique technology to detect and alert tired and distracted drivers
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) helps detect vehicles in the offset rear blind spot on both sides of the SUV
• Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the SUV runs across the lane markers without the turn indicator being used

Tata Nano sales at showrooms

Customers in Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh can finally buy the Tata Nano directly from show rooms as Tata Motors moves to end booking system for the world’s cheapest car.

In October it started open sales of the Rs1-lakh car in Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, making it possible for people to purchase the car directly from dealers instead of booking it.

“Customers in these states that have not booked a Nano so far can now purchase the Nano directly from showrooms,” the company said in a statement. When it launched the Nano commercially in March 2009, Tata Motors decided to sell the car through a booking mode due to expected huge demand and limited production capacity at Pantnagar in Himachal Pradesh. Tata Motors was forced to move the Nano mother plant to Sanand in Gujarat from Singur in West Bengal following agitations over a land row.

The Sanand plant started commercial production in June, helping the company speed up delivery and meet most of the initial bookings done last year.

The country’s largest automaker had started open sales of the Nano in Kerala in August when the state celebrated the Onam festival.

Tata Motors has tied up with 26 banks including the State Bank of India , HDFC Bank , ICICI Bank and Canara Bank to offer loans for purchasing the Nano, the company said in the statement. “Customers will be able to take a closer look and test drive the Tata Nano across all Tata Motors dealerships and special Nano access points,” it said. Last year, Tata Motors had selected 1.6 lakh customers for delivering the car in two phases. It is in the process of delivering the car to the first one lakh customers, which will be completed by the end of this year.

The company has been ramping up production at Sanand and intends to reach 20,000 units per month by December.

Incidentally, with some instances of Nano catching fire, sales of the Nano have taken a beating since the past few months.

Piaggio low cost car

At Eicma 2010 Piaggio Group introduces the NT3 Concept. An extraordinarily innovative vehicle, designed to meet mobility needs in areas with the highest development rates, specifically in India, Vietnam and South East Asia.
NT3 is a result of Piaggio Group's innovation and technological capabilities which - together with a unique design - give life to a four wheeled, three seater vehicle never before seen on the market inspired by the basic characteristics of the ape. NT3 is a compact, safe, flexible, manoeuvrable and attractive vehicle as well as being highly competitive thanks to its contained costs.
Concept NT3: key characteristics
-    Compact size: thanks to a length of only 2.4 metres, NT3 moves about easily in traffic and is easy to park.
-    Load capacity: In the people carrier version, optimisation of the spaces guarantees full accommodations for three people thanks to the innovative three seat configuration with centre driving position.
-    Safety: NT3 is conceived around a space frame structure with crash box in order to guarantee maximum protection of the occupants.
-    Economy: more than 30 km with one litre of fuel.
-    Respect for the environment: the reduced weight allows consumption and emissions to be contained. NT3 can be available with high efficiency and low emissions power drives, including hybrid Piaggio HyS technology.
-    Modular: NT3 is a vehicle conceived to allow various transport solutions, such to configure a complete and diversified range of products.
Style: tradition and innovation
Tradition and innovation come together to clothe this Piaggio concept vehicle, completely unique on the mobility scene thanks also to various technical and architectural solutions which Piaggio has covered with specific patents.
Characteristics of the Vespa, but also of the Ape, are represented and reinterpreted to highlight the "Italianism" and originality of the vehicle.
From the side view, the unmistakable shape of the Vespa mudguard is reintroduced on the rear wheels. A radical solution is found at the front, without compromises, leaving the wheels uncovered so as not to forget Piaggio's scooter and motorcycle spirit. The front architecture recalls the Ape characteristics, dominated by an important sign which is reminiscent of the central mudguard.
In the NT3's interior architecture we also find the combination of tradition and innovation which creates a spacious, technological and original driver and passenger compartment. Once again, Vespa was the inspiration: a "tub" without any solution of continuity makes up the central element of the entire driver and passenger compartment.
The longitudinal section is similar to that of a Vespa, with a powertrain installed within complete with lithium batteries in the hybrid version. The use of recyclable materials and the reduced number of parts which make up the interior of the vehicle are aimed at keeping the costs down and simplicity of construction.
Versatility and transformability are two other fundamental characteristics of the NT3 project. There can be multiple configurations of the vehicle to meet various needs and uses. Different content and technology can characterise versions destined for different markets. At the Milan exhibition Piaggio introduces two versions of the prototype: one equipped with all of the most advanced content and the other more basic, equipped with the bare minimum. The differences in outfitting are made possible thanks to the decomposition of the parts and its modular nature which makes it easy to obtain various configurations with different characteristics – and therefore different costs.
Technical characteristics
Vehicle architecture: The use of a spaceframe with crashbox, conceived in high resistance steel, guarantees the safety of the occupants. Further advantages of this projectual choice are the high rigidity, sturdiness in the most severe uses, and keeping the vehicle weight low. On the NT3 concept the integration between powertrain and rear suspension allows the operational space of the mechanics to be contained and the vehicle's centre of gravity to be lowered, which translates into excellent stability. The separation of the spaceframe from the powertrain – realised with a double suspension level – allows for excellent comfort levels with extremely low vibration and noise.
Ergonomics and accommodations: the particular arrangement of the seats guarantees excellent accommodations for three people in less than 2.4 metres of length (the width of the NT3 Concept is 1,500 mm and the height is 1,600mm). The raised driving position provides excellent visibility, also guaranteed by the ample glass surfaces which contribute to excellent on board quality of life. The possibility of reclining or removing the passenger seats allows transportation of bulky objects.
Accessibility: the formed deck allows comfortable access both to the driver's seat and to the passengers' seats. An innovative door opening system allows easy entrance and exit from the vehicle even in tight spaces (for example in cases of parking near a wall or another vehicle).
Handling and road holding: contained dimensions and reduced turning radius provide the vehicle with extreme handling, making it capable of taking on even the most articulated route. The independent Mac Pherson front suspension is optimised to make the vehicle safe in any conditions of use. The "Omega" rear suspension guarantees maximum grip. Integration of the powertrain with the rear suspension allows operating space to be contained and provides a significant reduction in the vehicle's centre of gravity.
Three engine capacities
The Piaggio NT3 Concept can have three different engines, all conceived for maximum environmental compatibility while still guaranteeing suitable performance for the vehicle's mission.
The 200cc engine is characterised by significantly reduced costs of operation, consumption and polluting emissions.
The 300cc engine, based on the consolidated technology of the Piaggio Mp3 three-wheeled scooter, provides brilliant performance in the internal combustion 300cc version.
The 300 hybrid engine version integrates – as with the new Piaggio Mp3 300 Hybrid – the traditional low environmental impact internal-combustion powertrain with the zero emissions electric powertrain with performance equal to the 300cc internal combustion (80 km/hour max speed) and a speed of 30 km/hour in the ZEV "electric only" mode. The on board electronics decide, depending on the operational mode selected and the conditions of use, how much power to provide through the internal combustion engine and how much through the electric engine in order to optimise performance and consumption. The hybrid version represents the solution of excellence to satisfy the growing needs for urban mobility and metropolitan products with high environmental compatibility.

Volkswagen targets 18% market share in india by 2018

The Volkswagen Group significantly increased its profitability in the first nine months of 2010 and further expanded its strong position in the international automotive markets. The number of vehicles delivered rose by 12.9 percent to 5.4 million (January - September 2009: 4.8 million), a new delivery record for the Group. Volkswagen’s global market share climbed to 11.6 percent (11.5 percent). Sales revenue was up by 19.9 percent to €92.5 billion (€77.2 billion) in the reporting period, while operating profit exceeded the weak prior-year period by €3.3 billion, amounting to €4.8 billion (€1.5 billion). Profit after tax totaled €4.0 billion (€0.7 billion).

“We continued our extremely successful business growth in the first three quarters and are therefore well-positioned to achieve the goals laid down in our Strategy 2018”, said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, on Wednesday at the release of the interim report. CFO Hans Dieter Pötsch added: “Increased demand for our Group models and our disciplined cost management led to these strong results, which have strengthened our sound financial base.”

Chinese joint ventures make key contribution to success

The extremely positive business performance of Volkwagen’s Chinese joint ventures is not included in the Group’s operating profit, as these are accounted for using the equity method. The Chinese joint ventures, with an operating profit of €1.3 billion, significantly exceeded the prior year figure (€0.5 billion). In addition, the financial result includes positive effects of €863 million from the measurement of the put/call rights relating to Porsche Zwischenholding GmbH at the reporting date. Profit before tax rose by €4.4 billion to €5.4 billion.

Improvement in net liquidity bolsters Strategy 2018

Europe’s largest automobile manufacturer recorded a further improvement in its financial strength in the period from January to September, increasing net liquidity in the Automotive Division to €19.6 billion (€13.4 billion). This enables the Volkswagen Group to systematically drive forward the implementation of its Strategy 2018. The ecological alignment of the Group’s model range and investment in new technologies and locations also play a major role here. The company maintained its strict investment discipline, with a ratio of investments in property, plant and equipment (capex) to sales revenue of 4.0 percent (5.7 percent).

Brands and business fields

Almost all Volkswagen Group brands sold more vehicles in the first nine months of 2010 than

in the prior-year period. At 2.8 million (2.5 million) vehicles, the Volkswagen Passenger Cars rand lifted unit sales by 11.8 percent. Its operating profit improved to €1.6 billion (€0.3 billion). This growth was driven in particular by demand for the Polo, New Beetle, Tiguan, Touareg, Jetta and Passat models. The Audi brand sold 968,000 vehicles in the reporting period (852,000), an increase of 13.6 percent. In addition to higher volumes, continuous process improvements and systematic cost optimization helped almost double its operating profit to €2.3 billion (€1.2 billion). Demand for the Audi A4 saloon, Audi A6 saloon, Audi Q5 and an Audi Q7 model was particularly encouraging. The figures for the Lamborghini brand, which are included in the key figures for the Audi brand, also showed a positive development.

The Škoda brand lifted unit sales by 4.3 percent in the first three quarters of 2010 to 426,000 (409,000) vehicles. Operating profit rose to €314 million (€162 million). In addition to higher volumes, mix effects and cost reductions had a positive impact. The Octavia, Superb and Yeti models experienced strong demand. The SEAT brand’s unit sales profited from the recovery of the Spanish passenger car market, climbing by 10.6 percent to 260,000 (235,000) vehicles. As a result, its operating loss narrowed to €-218 million (€-228 million).

Thanks to improved operating conditions in the luxury segment in the first three quarters of the year, the Bentley brand increased unit sales by 29.9 percent. However, the operating result was impacted by changes in the market and product mix as well as upfront expenditures for new products. The brand’s operating loss amounted to €-145 million (€-148 million). Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sold 248,000 vehicles in the reporting period (204,000; +21.7 percent) and generated an operating profit of €142 million (€390 million). Adjusted for the proceeds of €0.6 billion received in the previous year from the sale of the Brazilian commercial vehicles business, the operating result was significantly higher than in the same period of 2009. The Scania brand lifted unit sales by 46.7 percent to 44,000 (30,000) units, improving its operating profit to €938 million (€98 million). The prior-year figure was affected by tough operating conditions in the commercial vehicles business. With an operating profit of €684 million (€468 million), Volkswagen Financial Services contributed to the Group’s strong results in the first nine months of 2010.

Winterkorn: “Pole position in the automotive industry firmly in our sights”

Total volumes for the global automotive markets in 2010 will be above the weak prior-year level, primarily due to the strong growth in the Chinese market. The Volkswagen Group will continue its new model rollout in the fourth quarter of 2010, strategically expanding its vehicle range. The Board of Management therefore continues to expect that deliveries to customers in the current year will be substantially higher than in the prior-year period. “The Volkswagen Group continues to have its sights firmly set on capturing pole position in the automotive industry: the foundations for our success are our presence in all key regions of the world, our focus on pioneering products and our drive to be the technology leader in all relevant areas. This will allow us to systematically expand our multibrand Group’s strong position in the international markets”, said Winterkorn. The successful business growth of the Volkswagen Group in the first nine months of 2010 will not continue as strongly in the fourth quarter. “Nevertheless, we believe that sales revenue and operating profit in the current year will continue to perform positively”, said Pötsch.

Volkswagen will also continue to focus on disciplined cost and investment management and the continuous optimization of its processes.