New Cars, Used Cars – New Cars Launches Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, India

Maruti Alto K10: Nothing But The Best

2012-01-05T23:21:00.000-08:00

When it comes to cars, Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 has a place of pride thanks to its best technological advancements. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 surpasses the expectations of customers easily. Its standard K10 engine yields 20.2 km per litre of petrol. Among all cars, the Alto offers the best mileage and it touches the 100 km mark in just 13 seconds from zero. The K10’s gear system is very effective as it eliminates all problems generally one comes across on other cars. The Alto K10 sports a great design and is extremely roomy. It is longer than the previous model. For the record, this is the biggest vehicle in the K Series too. Its muscular front projects an aggressive and competitive stature. The enhanced aerodynamic shape is inspired from Alto models in Europe. Further, the custom made crystal clear head lamps equipped with imported lenses from Japan and a bold hood are the highlights of the exterior.

The Alto K10 is fitted with the best tinted glasses which ensure a comfortable journey. The glasses save you from the harmful sunlight even on long drives. The newly designed wheel system delivers the impression of driving a large car. The wheel covers are the best and provide added safety to the vehicle. They also keep the wheels intact in case of any troubles. The K10 is the also the first K series car which features larger body frames. Side moulds and the tail gate further strengthen the body.

The interior is equally intriguing. The color schemes are soothing. The customers can select their favorite color schemes from the four different two-tone interiors. The steering wheels exude the authenticity of the design. The Italian leather upholstery, vanity mirrors with stylish knags and parcel trey enhance the quality feel. The integrated music system is among the best which reproduces the sound as it is recorded in the studio.

Tata Nano Sales in November

2011-12-04T22:56:00.000-08:00

Ever since Tata Nano has been launched, it has created buzz in the automobile industry in India. At first it created news for being the tiniest car launched ever with an even tinier price and now, the car is again in the headlines for making an impressive sales record. In November 2011, Tata Nano has registered remarkable sales of 6,401 units.

When Nano was initially launched, the car maker had a target of 20,000 units per month. However, the circumstances got a little awry and Nano managed to sell only 3,000 to 4,000 units per month on average. But with the new sales figure for November, things are certainly looking better for the Nano. It seems that Ratan Tata’s dream to put every Indians on four wheels can be true soon.

Despite of the gloomy economic climate, the Nano managed to clock over 6,401 units. For last couple of months, Tata has been using different sales strategies to boost the sale of Nano and it looks all the hard works have paid off for Tata.

The most interesting part is, exactly a year ago, Nano saw its worst monthly sales record with 509 units. Following this disappointing sales record, Tata came up with several corrective measures like a 4 year/60,000 Km warranty, zero down payment schemes and a INR 99 month maintenance package, etc. Plus, Tata recently launched a completely overhauled 2012 Tata Nano that has further contributed to boost up the sales record for this car.

The 2012 Nano is faster and more responsive and has a completely revamped interior compared to its predecessor. With these tweaks and changes, the future of Nano certainly looks promising. It would be interesting to see how the Nano performs in the coming months and we will eagerly look forward to it.

Tata Nano - Overhauled Tata Nano Gets Unleashed this Month

2011-11-16T03:36:00.000-08:00

Since its launch in March 2009, Tata Nano has created a lot of stir in the Indian automobile market for being the cheapest car so far. The car has again created a buzz as it is about to get a serious facelift. The overhauled model is expected to get several cosmetic changes including new seats and fabric, passenger side outside rear view mirror, new front seat headrest, new wheel cap design, floor mats, are some of the features that are expected to be present in the new model. Plus, to add a little bit of jazz to the interior Tata engineers have created a beige colored dashboard. The new model is also expected to be available in attractive new colors.

Some mechanical changes are also expected for the new Tata Nano model. While the steering geometry has been redone, the castor angle is optimized so that the steering effort is minimized which has been a major issue with the car. The suspension setup has also been adjusted. Tata engineers have also tweaked the anti roll bar for the betterment of its ride and handling. Plus, body stiffness has been increased too.

And that’s not all! Tata has also raised the power of its new Nano by almost 10 percent. From 35bhp the new model is expected to have a max power of 38 bhp. Tata engineers are also working on a two cylinder engine and a more powerful three cylinder 900 cc motor. However, we need to wait for at least a year to see this new engine.

The upgraded Nano will be available in pearl white and other bright colors like green and orange. However, we are not expecting any major price chance. The car is scheduled to be launch later this month.

diesel Car Prices - Maruti hikes diesel car prices by up to Rs 10,000

2011-11-15T05:03:00.000-08:00

India’s greatest carmaker Maruti Suzuki has enhanced the rates of its diesel-powered motors by up to Rs 10,000. While the diesel-powered variations of Fast, Dzire and SX4 motors became more expensive by Rs 10,000 from Friday, the cost of the Ritz hatchback has been enhanced by 2,000.

“There has been a crucial rise in the information cost and an unwanted understanding in the Western forex yen that had made imports more expensive and required this increase,” a business representative said.

The carmaker is in the procedure of normalising creation after a 55 % decrease in July to 50,487 models, following frequent moves since May that kept the Manesar place turn for 59 times. Because of this, the ready time for some of Maruti’s diesel-powered design exercises up to nine several weeks.

Industry resources say other carmakers, such as Cars Engine and Toyota, are also looking at cost changes.

Maruti Suzuki - Maruti to open more than double driving schools to 400

2011-11-15T05:01:00.000-08:00

New Delhi: The nation's most significant car-maker Maruti Suzuki Indian on Friday said it is trying to more than increase its generating universities to 400 over the next 2-3 years to practice bigger number of individuals on route security.

The business has already qualified 10 lakh individuals in the last decades, out of which 5 lakh have been qualified under its primary program -- Nationwide Road Safety Objective (NRSM), which was released in November 2008.

"So far we have qualified over 10 lakh individuals... We now goal to increase the system of Maruti generating universities to 400 in the next 2-3 years," Maruti Suzuki Indian (MSI) Dealing with Management Office (Marketing and Sales) Mayank Pareek said in a record.

The business has a system of 6 Organizations of Driving a car a vehicle and Traffic Research (IDTR) and 192 Maruti generating universities.

Various condition health systems have become a member of palms with MSI in location up IDTRs and institutionalising generating coaching in the region.
The business is awaiting support and advice of several other condition health systems to enhance this project, Pareek said.

Under NRSM, the business on Friday surpassed the landmark of having imparted coaching to 5 lakh individuals. Of this, it has qualified 1.47 lakh individuals from the cheaply pushed areas. MSI had provided their coaching and many of them are "meaningfully engaged" now, the business said.

On the significance of this project, Pareek said: "In conditions of massive, around 1,60,000 day-to-day life is missing yearly in route damages. As the car area is growing, there is a need to bring in excellent coaching institutes, which help institutionalise substantial 'quality training' on route security."

As per the newest record created by Worldwide Road Federation, Indian shed close to about Rs 1,00,000 crore every year in route damages, he included.

MSI has been working on route security since 2000, but it was only in 2008 when the business offered a professional design to this pursuit through the primary NRSM program.

Mahindra XUV 500 sets record sales -- 6000 booking in two days

2011-10-07T05:33:00.000-07:00

The Mahindra XUV 500 has been creating much buzz in the Indian automobile industry since its launch. According to some reports, Mahindra’s latest creation, this sports utility vehicle has got 6000 booking in just two days from its official launch. The highly competitive price of the new Mahindra XUV 500 seems to have been the best bet of the company and car buyers are just pouring in Mahindra dealership to book this smart looking SUV equipped with all the latest features. Right now, the vehicle is available in three different trims including W6, W8, and W8 4x4.

The Mahindra XUV 500 price in Delhi (Ex-showroom) are as follows: XUV 500 2WD W6 comes with a price tag of Rs 10.80 lakhs while the WD W8 costs Rs 11.95 lakh, whereas on the other hand, the top-of-the-line 4WD W8 variant is priced at Rs 12.88 lakh.

The Mahindra XUV 500 price in Bangalore (Ex-showroom) are as follows: XUV 500 2WD W6 comes with a price tag of Rs 10.91 lakhs while the WD W8 costs Rs 12.07 lakh, whereas on the other hand, the top-of-the-line 4WD W8 variant is priced at Rs 13.02 lakh.

The Mahindra XUV 500 price in Mumbai (Ex-showroom) are as follows: XUV 500 2WD W6 comes with a price tag of Rs 10.73 lakhs while the WD W8 costs Rs 11.88 lakh, whereas on the other hand, the top-of-the-line 4WD W8 variant is priced at Rs 12.81 lakh.

The Mahindra XUV 500 price in Pune (Ex-showroom) are as follows: XUV 500 2WD W6 comes with a price tag of Rs 10.73 lakhs while the WD W8 costs Rs 11.88 lakh, whereas on the other hand, the top-of-the-line 4WD W8 variant is priced at Rs 12.81 lakh.

Mahindra engineers have worked hard to design the new XUV 500 and it shows. The spacious interiors loaded with state-of-the-art features like cruise control, touch screen enabled music system with steering mounted audio controls, power folding rear view mirrors, puddle lamps, and glove box, makes new Mahindra XUV 500 its owner’s pride.

With Mahindra’s present production capacity of 2,000 units per month, the maximum wait period will be three months, considering Mahindra has already over 6000 bookings. However, the car maker has additional production capacity and will likely to ramp up production if the demand rises further.

Mahindra XUV 500 in India

2011-10-06T22:38:00.000-07:00

As promised, we are back again with more info on the newly launched Mahindra XUV 500. Mahindra and Mahindra, in a phased event, today launched the Mahindra XUV500 at Bangalore. The Mahindra XUV500 designed and developed in-house by Mahindra is the company’s first global SUV platform. The SUV has been designed with significant inputs in styling and development from customers across the globe.

The Mahindra XUV500 price range starts at Rs Rs.10.80 Lakhs for the W6 model, Rs.11.95 Lakhs for the W8 2WD model and Rs.12.88 Lakhs for the W8 All Wheel Drive (AWD) model in Delhi, while the price reads at Rs 11,32 Lakhs for the W6 model, Rs 13, 51 Lakhs for the W8 2WD model and Rs. 12,53 Lakhs for the W8 All Wheel Drive (AWD) model in Mumbai and Rs 10.91 lakhs for the W6, Rs 12.07 Lakhs for the W8 2Wd model and Rs 13.02 Lakhs for the All Wheel Drive (AWD) model in Bangalore (All-Ex-showroom Prices) .

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra Group said, “The launch of our first global SUV platform, the XUV500, is another proud moment in our automotive journey. For the Mahindra Group, the XUV500 represents ‘Rise’ in action as the team deployed alternative thinking to deliver a high level of technology and performance at an unbeatable price. I am confident that the XUV500 will create a brand new category in the premium SUV segment and find favour both in India and overseas.”

Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. while speaking at the launch mentioned, “The XUV500 is our first global SUV that has been completely designed and developed around the global customer, with extensive product validation and testing done across Europe, Australia, South Africa, and India. The Mahindra XUV500 offers benefits such as aspirational styling, a product filled with technological advances, advanced safety features, comfort and convenience, etc. hitherto seen only in hi-end SUVs. All this and much more at an unbeatable price, which makes this product nothing less than a category creator.”

Vivek Nayar, Sr Vice President, marketing, automotive sector, Mahindra and Mahindra briefing about the Mahindra XUV500 said the SUV is unmatched in terms of style, performance, technology, safety and comfort, providing the customers a truly complete driving experience.

The Mahindra XUV500 has been inspired by the Cheetah. Bold and glorious lines that trace the world’s most agile animal in action, namely the cheetah, contribute to the elegant styling and visual impact – an intimidating jaw-like honeycomb grill, the unique paw styled vertical door handles and muscular wheel arches – all add to what seems to be the vehicle’s innate desire to pounce! The body is aerodynamically designed with static-bending projector headlamps and LED parking lamps, racing-inspired twin exhausts, integrated bumpers and stylish, light-weight alloy wheels all add to the SUV’s stature, making the XUV500 a striking presence on road.

The Mahindra XUV500 is a monocoque and it is found only in the most modern SUVs of the world. The monocoque construction will result in an excellent power to weight ratio, unmatched handling and undiluted driving pleasure. The SUV is available in 3 exciting variants and 7 lust-worthy shades to suit a variety of tastes. The colours that will drape the XUV500 are Satin White, Tuscan Red, Opulent Purple, Amazon Green, Moondust Silver, Volcano Black and Dolphin Grey. These colours also are contemporary and classy.

The engine that powers the Mahindra XUV500 is the 2.2 litre mHawk diesel engine which delivers a power-packed 140bhp with 330Nm torque. This is the same engine that does duty in the Mahindra Scorpio. The 2.2 litre engine gets a 6-speed transmission and the 5th generation Variable Geometry Turbocharger which makes the SUV do a 0-60 in just 5.4 seconds. The powerful and the torquey engine has not been compromised with fuel economy and it shows.

The beast of an SUV returns with an impressive 15.1 kms per litre (ARAI-certified). Driving in the city is a breeze with the XUV500 as the Dual Mass Flywheel ensures rattle-free driving pleasure with high torque at low engine revs. The beats is also environment friendly as the advanced Micra Hybrid Technology helps conserve both fuel and nature.
DSC_0330

Mahindra XUV500 can easily now boast of being the most stable vehicle in India at this part of the Rs 11 lakh bracket. The Mahindra XUV500 also boasts of an All Wheel Drive (AWD) that lets the driver tackle even the toughest of roads with consummate ease. The Interactive Torque Management (ITM) system automatically redistributes the torque between the front and rear wheels to manoeuvre the XUV500 out of any discomfort. The seamless transition from 2WD to AWD without driver intervention gives XUV500 owners a level of handling prowess unmatched by conventional vehicles. The XUV500 features sporty suspension that also affords drivers a lot of room for fun. In fact, the XUV500 features a suspension system of McPherson struts up front and the independent multi-link suspension in the rear.

Technology is present in abundance in the Mahindra XUV500 SUV. No wonder the guys at Mahindra have toiled hard to come out with a product like this. The Mahindra engineers with the XUV500 have created a SUV which is not just world class but also futuristic. The customers would have a field day locating those ever present gizmos in the XUV500. Lets bring the first-in-class gadgets found in the XUV500 to begin off. A checklist is very well what you will be needing when we take you through the gadgets you are most likely to find only on the XUV500 . A 6-inch LCD touchscreen on the dash coupled with highly sophisticated touch screen infotainment system with DVD player, CD/MP3, FM, Bluesense technology, full i-pod connectivity and 6 speakers. This might sound music to your ears as the speakers with built-in tweeters recreate the experience of an original studio recording for all audiophiles, reminding the passengers of a high-end home theatre surround sound set-up.

The XUV500 also features a fully loaded GPS navigation system, which covers over 1.5 million kilometres of road across 1200 cities with a turn-by-turn voice guidance system in not less than eight regional languages. The system also gives the driver access to over 5 million touch points of interest including restaurants, ATMs, fuel pumps and movie theatres. Getting Lost, no way with the XUV500 …

The XUV500 also features a full fledged, integrated Driver information system that reports to you with all the vital information about the car. Information such as the tyre air pressure and temperature, hoe far can you go with the existing fuel and so on. Some of the other features the SUV features are intellipark reverse park assist system, cruise control, and a host of other intelligent features. Safety has not been compromised either. Mahindra calls the XUV500 part sanctuary and part fortress. The SUV features Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Rollover Mitigation, 6 airbags (Front, side and curtain airbags), thoughtfully located crumple zones and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

The SUV also features Hill Descent Control identifies steep inclines and engages itself to assist the vehicle down the slope with caution while Hill Hold Control prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting from standstill on an incline.
On the interiors, the XUV500 is a driver’s delight. A high calibre, twin-pod instrument cluster with seriously sporty 3D designs and an exquisite waterfall style central bezel combine to give you the feel of a highly evolved piece of machinery. The driver’s seat is ergonomically designed with 8 different adjustments including height and complete lumbar support adjust.
DSC_0347

Independent AC vents with fully automatic climate control double HVAC cools all corners of this spacious SUV with individual controls for each passenger. The car’s stylish exterior is aptly complemented by the elegantly crafted two tone pure leather interiors, replete with intuitively placed storage units, which include a cool box and an inbuilt laptop holder. Well thought features such as Individual reading lamps for each passenger and conveniently placed laptop and mobile charging points in each seating row, together with the concealed lounge lighting, add to the sheer exclusivity that is the Mahindra XUV500.

Mahindra vehicles accounts to more than 60 percent of the SUV market in India and with the XUV500 , it wants to take the ratio to a higher level. The Mahindra XUV500 has a localization content of about 90 percent and that explains the jaw dropping price. Mahindra’s target audience for the XUV500 are the customers of C2 segment and above, which translates into people looking to upgrade from their current sedans such as Honda City, Volkswagen Vento, Hyundai Verna and so on.

Though the top management in Mahindra was tight lipped on the number of XUV500 units it was planning to sell, they sure said that the production capacity of the vehicle in Chakan near Pune could manufacture around 200 units per month and the production could be ramped up based on the demand.

The bookings for the Mahindra XUV500 could start from 3 or 4th of October and Mahindra in a smart marketing move has created an elite “Purple Club” for the customers of the XUV500 and have hired 300-350 people across India as Relationship Managers and trained them in Chakan. We also have Mahindra XUV 500 reviews for your leisurely reading.

New Ford Fiesta Comes to Town

2011-07-15T04:22:00.000-07:00

The all new Ford Fiesta is the latest premium sedan from Ford in India. Here is a quick sneak preview for all the Ford fans.

New Ford Fiesta Review

The all new Ford Fiesta has a striking new design that will woo any car admirer. If confidence, style, and individuality are your style, then you will definitely not want to miss out checking out the all new Ford Fiesta. The interiors are done with an aesthetic touch coupled with advanced comfort features. The boldly sculptured surface, the Voice Control feature, climate control settings, music track, six-speaker sound system will definitely going to take your breath away!

Official from Ford India’s Marketing and Sales division has said that the new Fiesta is a complete package of a luxury car, full with exciting entertainment and comfort features. He also added, that the car has been engineered keeping in mind its Indian client, their needs, and necessities.
Apart from all these exciting comfort features, all new Ford Fiesta boasts upon its fuel efficient powertrain performance, fuel economy, and reduced CO2 emission. The car is backed by Ti-VCT petrol and TDCi diesel powertrain that has been developed to sustain in the Indian terrains, city and highway conditions. Plus, the sophisticated Cruise Control system gives a pleasant driving experience as well.

In a nutshell, the all new Ford Fiesta is a perfect combination of style and performance. It will be interesting to see how this car performs in the future. We will be eagerly waiting to Ford Fiesta review its performance.

Toyota Etios or Mahindra Verito

2011-07-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

The Indians are all crazy sedans. This explains the proposed sale of Maruti Swift sedan and the Toyota Dziri Etios. Speaking of that, the car buying public is going crazy, some even without test driving the car went ahead and put your money on it. Etios seems not only a major investment, it is also advisable to go in a Toyota instead of Tata Maruti or even the same price. In long been forgotten Verito nee Mahindra Logan. Mahindra Renault fell on the floor and also the name of Logan, to give the car to buy the public something new to celebrate. He was in the letters that these two competitors compete on the battlefield Indiandrives square if we are here with a comparison of India and Toyota Etios Mahindra Verito in India. Entry-level value for money buys (Toyota and Mahindra claims, not ours).

Ford Fiesta Classic launched in India

2011-07-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

As contemplated, Ford Motors has launched their 2011 Ford Fiesta Classis in India. The old Fiesta model has been revamped and renamed as Ford Fiesta Classic. The new 2011 Ford Fiesta Classic is considered to be the precursor of all new Fiesta which is expected to be launched somewhere around May 2011 in India.

Ford has also phased out the production of its most popular Ford Ikon in India to promote the sale of Ford Fiesta. Although the new Fiesta Classic looks similar to its earlier version, there are some subtle changes in the new model. The new Fiesta Classic now has new seats with central console with a graphic metallic finish. However, the engine remains the same 1.6 liter petrol that can manage to pump out 101 bhp of power. The diesel variant is powered by 1.4 liter engine with a maximum power output of 68 bhp.

Right now, the new Fiesta Classic is available in two trims, LXi and CLXi. The ex-showroom price for Ford Fiesta Classic has been slashed down significantly. While the price for the petrol variant of Ford Fiesta Classic has been slashed down by Rs 46,000, the price of the diesel variant is reduced by Rs 38,000. The new price for Ford Fiesta Classic (petrol) is Rs 5.58 lakhs whereas the price for Ford Fiesta Classic (diesel) is Rs 6.05 lakhs. Both the prices are ex-showroom prices in Mumbai.

Top Cars in India

2011-07-12T02:07:00.000-07:00

Maruti Swift

Maruti Swift is one of the top ten cars in India manufactured by Maruti Suzuki which is one of the oldest car manufacturers in India. The Maruti Swift is preferred by most car buyers for its excellent fuel economy (15.9 km/l for petrol variant and 21.0 km/l for diesel variant.) The diesel version of the car is powered by 1.3 liter multijet turbocharged engine which is efficient to produce a power of 75 bhp.

Maruti Alto

Maruti Suzuki Alto is one of the top selling cars in India. Maruti Alto is best in its class fuel efficiency promising a mileage of 19.73 KMPL. The vehicle is available both in petrol and CNG variant and is powered by 796 cc engine.

Chevrolet Beat

Since its launch, Chevrolet beat has grabbed the attention of car enthusiasts for its unique styling. The twin-barrel headlamps give the car an off-beat look. The super value pricing of the car gives a tough competition to the other class rivals. New Chevrolet Beat is powered by 199cc Smart Tech DOHC petrol engine and generates maximum power of 82 Bhp with a torque of 108 Nm and a mileage of around 18 kmpl.

Chevrolet Cruze

Chevrolet Cruze is another popular car in India. The vehicle has been built on GM motor’s newly revamped Delta 2 platform. The car has been engineered carefully and it shows. Chevrolet Cruze is available in three variants including Chevrolet Cruze LT, Chevrolet Cruze LTZ and Chevrolet Cruze LTZ AT.

Ford Figo

As the Indian car market is dominated by hatchbacks, Ford launched its new Ford Figo. The competitive price tag, stylish exterior, and superior performance have made this car one of the top cars in India. The petrol version of Ford Figo is equipped by the all 1.2L petrol engine which produces 71Ps of maximum power and 102 Nm of torque while the diesel version of Ford Figo runs on 1.4L, Duratorq diesel engine.

Tata Indica V2

Tata Indica was the first passenger vehicle launched by Tata Motors in India. Although the car initially did not perform as per expectations, the revamped model, Tata indica V2 overcame all its shortcomings and lived up to its motto “more car per car.” Today, Tata Indica V2 ranks among one of the top cars in India.

Hyundai Santro xing

Hyundai Santro Xing has been the top leading vehicle in the hatchback B segment auto market in India. Hyundai Santro was launched way back in 1999 and it came to known as Santro Xing after it got revamped in 2003. Spacious interiors, superior technology, chic exterior, and an affordable price tag has made Hyundai Santro Xing the most desired family car.

Hyundai i10

After the much success of Hyundai Santro Xing, Hyundai rolled out i10 in November 2007. The new Kappa engine with a powerful on-road performance has made i10 the most popular “A” segment in hatchback section.

Hyundai i20

After the success of Hyundai i10, Hyundai has launched the next generation Hyundai i20 targeting the B+ segment customers. The car has been primarily designed with strong European influences, the interiors being done in beige with some black on the dash. The car incorporated all the latest technology and comfort features making it one of the top cars in India.

Toyota Etios Liva

Toyota Etios Liva is the latest release from Toyota in the hatchback segment. With a competitive price tag and an economic fuel efficiency of 18.31 kmpl, Liva is already a hot topic in the industry. The vehicle has smart interiors done in dual tones with all the latest features including remote central locking, dash integrated music system, steering mounted audio control, rear defogger, etc. Overall it has got an impressive look as well as superior performance on road.

Honda City

If you are looking for a perfect combination of impressive styling, sophisticated design, advanced safety, and superior performance, then Honda City is the best mid-size sedan in the country at the moment. The car is available in six petrol variants including E MT, S MT, VMT, VAT, V MT Exclusive and V AT Exclusive while Elegance and Inspire packages is also available. The new Honda City is powered by a 1.5L i-VTEC engine.

Important Facts About A Certified Used Car

2011-07-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

A certified car is now preferred by many because of its benefits. The main reason behind this is that a certified used vehicle comes with comprehensive coverage that goes beyond the scope of what a car dealer can offer you. A certified used cars can be seen as the car has been carefully studied and found to be so good in the sense that they have received an extended warranty. This is the automaker that comes with its own scoring system to evaluate whether the car can be treated s certified. The 5 Important Facts about certified used car is as follows:

1) Evaluation of the used car:

A certification program is a process by which the dealer assesses the condition of a used vehicle is returned at the end of the lease. The evaluation was conducted to see if the car can be considered certified. However, it is important to know that different cars manufacturers have their own points system. This varies from company to company.

2) The evaluation factors:

The evaluation process contains the set of points depends on things like the age of the car, which can not pass the certification test if the car is more than five years. The certification is carried out depending on the mileage and the previous owner of the car.

3) The cost of the process:

Dealer assesses the cost of repair of sufficient value to obtain a certificate to the vehicle list. Otherwise, the car is not in the certification test.

4) A certified car uses an identification tag:

A certified car is a sticker that is placed on the window to determine that the car has passed the strict guidelines necessary to become certified in use.

5) You can decide whether the car is good for you:

A certified coach gives you three days or 3000 miles to see if the car is right for you. During this period, if you do not like the car, you can always return the vehicle to the dealer and pick a better place for you.

One of the best options for buying a car is to check the used car certified. There are several types of certifications. Most manufacturers come equipped with their own scoring system. Never buy a car just about the basis for an ad that says "certified". You must find out which program the car has been certified.

A certified used car warranty can provide long-term supplies at low cost. You can save big money on your vehicle on an annual basis. However, when you are looking for a car, make sure you can find a local dealer who has an extensive collection of real Certified Used Vehicles.

Mahindra-Renault Logan

2011-07-08T05:26:00.001-07:00

Logan rolled off the body on Indian roads on the occasion of the new partnership is one of Mahindra & Mahindra and Renault. It has been very successful since, and is available in both diesel and petrol variants. The diesel versions are fitted with a 1.5 L inline-4 engine that produces 65 hp. The petrol variants come with two engine choices: a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 75 hp and a 1.6L four-cylinder that churns out 84.5 hp. All variants come with a manual transmission smooth 5-speed. Estimated fuel economy is 10/15 km / l (city / highway) for petrol versions and 12/17 km / l (city / highway) for diesel variants. The starting price of Mahindra Renault Logan is Rs 4.36 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Maruti's K10 engine crosses 10 lakh production mark

2011-07-08T03:15:00.000-07:00

The famous, responsive and fuel efficient of the K series engine that powers bestsellers Maruti Suzuki is like WagonR, Swift, Estilo and Alto-K10, now reaches production milestone total of 10 lakh units, the company said in a statement.

The company launched the first K series engine with its flagship export model A-Star in October 2008, he added. K-series engines are manufactured at the factory in Gurgaon Company.

Commenting on the performance, said Maruti Suzuki India Chief General Manager (Marketing), Shashank Srivastava: We are proud that customers have really enjoyed our offer attached with the generation of the K series engine to the next, as the leader of market, we are continually improving technologies. years.

Of the total production to reach the milestone, the company has equipped the engine of the K series of over 3.5 lakh units of A-Star, 1.9 lakh units of WagonR, 1.36 lakh units Alto K-10, 1, 05 units of Estilo lakh, 1.24 lakh units of Swift and 95,000 units of the Ritz.

Source: MSN

2011 Maruti Swift

2011-07-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

We speculate the release date of 2011 Swift for some time. It seems that the release date of the new car was finally revealed. Maruti Suzuki launches this beloved car in India in his avatar revised in August 2011. Design changes with the new car in the first are very small. However, Suzuki has built the car from the beginning in its latest version. The 2011 Suzuki Swift is bigger and roomier than the current version was fresh and contemporary interior and a larger wheelbase. The engine and transmission is the same for the Swift 2011, but expect to see an automatic transmission option in the new version. We downloaded detailed pictures for you to make changes in your new car.

The headlights of the first new car is longer and wider than the previous version. They are now swept further back towards the door in an attempt to give the car a look over at the front and sports.

taillights follow the design philosophy used on the front and they are longer than the previous car as well. They are stretched to the rear wing and extend even outside the door to the hips. They also now have a clear glass panel is housed in the light that passes through the tail of the length of the tail lamp.

fold newly inserted starting from the inner line of projectors and extends into the front bumper, around the air dam and is a trough-shaped form.

Panel quarter in the rear windows were enlarged back, suggesting some increase in legroom behind the bench.

There is a cavity between the door and the door of the rear bumper. Unlike the previous car, door to door does not have a niche for itself by lifting it up, you have to keep it where it ends. A horizontal crease in the tailgate too was replaced by a clean look.

Central air in front of the dam is now bigger and the fog is too invested in a box with different shapes.

The cover appears to be an inch longer

The grill, which was a point of view, above now more curved trapezoidal shapes and a smiley

In the interior of the car receives a wheel completely new direction and many new buttons on the car

10.It seems that, apart from the volume controls and other basic functions, the car in the pictures is a Cruise control

The dashboard is totally jazzed with a digital display located between the speedometer and tachometer. It seems quite elaborate with a lot of information available on the digital display. There is too advanced trip computer gives you the time consuming and a half and autonomy. 12. The dashboard has been redesigned as well. The materials seem to be better today and the round AC vents in the car before have been replaced by the angular vessels with aluminum center in twins. AC vents have been replaced

The center console has been completely changed and it now seems Jazzi looks very sad that the previous version. He seems to have a stereo system with advanced control climate.

The gear knob, handbrake lever and the seats have not changed.

Ford Fiesta - New Ford Fiesta Launch on 14th July

2011-07-07T21:12:00.000-07:00

Ford played hide and seek with journalists on the launch dates of the new Ford Fiesta. The company gave us a taste of months ago a car, passing by coffee Fiesta, but do not breathe a word about the launch dates. While Ford India has called us to Bangalore for a long day drive to Mysore and back, no word yet on the launch! Finally, having seen and studied the response to the new Verna fluid to form an appropriate marketing strategy, it seems that the company has decided to reveal the launch dates. The Fiesta is a framework of streets July 14.

Why not start the car, Ford India has not been price. Fiesta has some good features, not the other cars in its class, such as cruise control. Voice commands are activated rare feature, where the line is the only car in its segment is similar to the system. Our logic said that Ford India to launch the car at a price that is slightly smaller than the Verna and Wind. Nothing official, but that's what we think, like Ford, with the success Figo now know what the right price can do wonders for the sale of a good product.

As mentioned earlier, we drove the car and set up a very detailed review road test site as well. You can follow this link to read the review road test of the two engines and TiVCT 1.5 TDCi. As always count on us to offer live coverage of the launch of the car. What should be the correct price for the diesel version of the luxury car? Let us know your views.

Toyota Etios Liva Review

2011-07-07T07:22:00.000-07:00

Get all the details of the Toyota Etios Liva, including specifications, photos, features and prices. Also find Toyota dealers Etios Liva in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and other cities in India. Use our comparison tool to compare Toyota Etios Liva other new cars. Click on Toyota Etios Liva reviews, comments and assessments of professionals in one place

Toyota Etios Liva is the first sedan of Toyota in India. This decrease in the small car segment. It was the first show cased Auto Expo that was held last year (2010). The company also plans to take Amrita countries such as South America, Russia and many other countries around the world. Small cars are expected to fight against Hyundai i10, Maruti Swift, Chevrolet Beat and also future models, such as Brio Honda, Maruti Cervo, etc. Toyota Etios Liva was launched June 27, 2011.

External Toyota Etios Liva - Liva Etios looks wonderful. The company is known for its distinctive appearance. U grid, the face seems to take the time to recognize the center. Headlights and fog lights will further enrich the beauty of its exterior. And The total length of 3775 mm, 1695 mm and the width, height 1,490 mm and 173 mm height from the ground. Waistline muscles on the front to give an aggressive look. It has a unique look from behind. But comparing the next Maruti Cervo, it seems boring. Overall, looks good.

Interior Toyota Etios Liva - Well, speaking of Toyota Etios Liva internal features, looks like a great dual-tone. Dashboard is a very decent show some of the boxes carrying value of the goods. It has some common design features, such as AC, power windows, power steering adjustable, remote central locking, Dash, an integrated music system, steering mounted audio controls, rear fog lights, rear wiper / washer, etc. five-seat hatchback and enough space for sucking legs for passengers, Toyota said, gives a large space for passengers. Need to sacrifice part of the baggage, which gives very little space to do your thing. Moreover, everything is perfect. Overall, it depends on individual taste.

Toyota Etios Liva Models – Company launched Etios Liva in 5 different versions:

• Toyota Etios Liva J
• Toyota Etios Liva G
• Toyota Etios Liva G (Optional)

• Toyota Etios Liva V

• Toyota Etios Liva VX

Toyota Etios Liva - Liva Etios The next Toyota is expected to be equipped with the robust 1.2 petrol engine with 4 valves. Have the ability to increase the power of 80 hp scandalous and a couple that has not yet declared. The cars weight (890 kg) can easily carry. The company has not published the statements of the motor. Safety features Toyota Etios Liva - Liva Etios The next Toyota is expected to provide security features such as pre-exit distance, remote fuel tank, rear wiper rear defogger, rear armrest, central locking, EBD, electric windows , ABS, ESP and rear seat belts: 3 with temperature control.

Toyota Etios Liva Liva Kilometers-Toyota Etios should provide 15 km per liter.

Toyota Etios Liva colors - Liva Etios is available in different colors such as blue coast (RJB), Boston University Red, White Metal, green and silver Guppies after its release in India.

Toyota Etios Liva Features - Toyota Etios Liva will have some good and fundamental characteristics as the holder Cube, power windows, power steering, air conditioning, CD / MP3 player, MP3 player, AM / FM Radio, bumper body color, the roof antenna power telescope tubeless tires, roof antenna, wheel covers.

Toyota Etios Liva Awards - not yet launched the Toyota Etios Liva is expected to recover some prestigious awards after its launch in India. The company is a promising vehicle manufacturers in India. Toyota Etios Liva is the first sedan in society, so the auto experts expect that this model will catch many awards in India.

Toyota Etios Liva maintenance costs - the cost of maintaining Toyota Etios Liva will be cheap because it is a hatchback. You have to spend a minimum amount of regular service, oil change, etc. You will get genuine Toyota parts Etios Liva across the country, so no need to worry about parts of it.

Toyota Etios Liva Cost - Toyota Etios Liva expected from R 3.99 lakh to 5.99 lakh and goes on the market. Toyota Etios Liva be available in five models, the basic model of Toyota Etios Liva J should be priced at Rs.3.99 lakh, where the upper end of the Etios Liva Toyota sold 5.99 lakh rupees in India.

Toyota Etios around Liva and management - elegant Toyota Etios Liva is filled with 1.2-liter gasoline engine MPen. This engine should turn out very power 80 hp, which gives enormous appeal of the car. All Toyota models Etios Liva is a great attraction. Car has certain safety features ABS, seat belts, etc., that ensures the safety of an accident. Brakes are front disc brakes and rear drum brakes to help control the vehicle easily even if you have a top speed. Toyota Etios Liva comes with 185/60 R15 tire size that provides a good grip. Overall, a great door, when it comes to lead and manage.

Liva Etios Toyota Accessories - Toyota Etios Liva offer entertainment for all residents. The car is expected to load with some accessories such as audio MP3 player, USB stick, CD-DVD and is also expected to have a small LCD screen. You can get audio controls on steering wheel audio controls and remote. Total Toyota Etios Liva will entertain you.

Toyota Etios Liva in India - Toyota Etios Liva Price, Toyota Etios

2011-07-07T00:52:00.000-07:00

Vehicle Summary :
Name: Toyota Etios Liva
Model: G
Body Shape: Hatchback
Segment : B
Fuel Consumption : 18:00 Kmpl Highway
Fuel Consumption : 13:00 Kmpl city way
Warranty : 3 years 100,000

Verdict

For : Toyota's brand value, Reasonable price, Spacious interiors
AGAINST: Available in only petrol, Centrally mounted instrument cluster is not very comfortable

Appearance: Excellent
Comfort: Excellent
Features: Exellent
Performance: Exellent
Displacement: 1197cc, 16 valve, DOHC
Engine Type: Petrol
Maximum Power: 78.9 Bhp @ 5600 rpm
Maximum Torque: 104 Nm @ 3100 rpm

DIMENSIONS

Length: 3775 mm
Width: 1695 mm
Height: 1510 mm

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS

Seating Capacity: 5
Tyre Size: 175/65 R14
Suspension: McPherson Strut - Torsion Beam
Turning Circle: 4.80 mtrs.
Boot Space: 251.00 ltrs.
Steering: Power
Brakes: Front Disk, Rear Drum
Gears: 5 Manual
Ground Clearance: 170.00 mm
Kerb Weight: 900.00 kgs.
Fuel Tank: 45.00
Trip Meter: 2

Toyota India has announced the all new small hatchback car Etios and sedan is a car at Expo 2010. Apart from India, Toyota Etios Liva are also sold in Russia, South America and perhaps in other emerging markets. Honda also set to unveil a new small sedan (Bio) and the Indian market, the two biggies Japanese face off great, and for the first time, two of which are against each other in the small car market. Top-class variant of the Toyota Etios compete head-on the Volkswagen Polo, Fiat and Hyundai i20.

Toyota has launched the India Etios Liva at a price of 3.99 lakhs (ex showroom New Delhi) is the base model to attract customers Maruti Swift, Chevrolet Beat, Hyundai i10, Maruti, Tata Indica Vista and Ritz. Toyota sold 20,000 sedans Etios up to date (June 20), and it is expected that with the launch of models Etios Liva Etios cumulative sales continue to grow by about 6000-8000 vehicles per month. Toyota India has also reduced the time wating Etios eight months, only a month, because many customers began canceling a reservation is not available and long waiting time.

Hyundai Presents 'New Fluidic Verna' to Virender Sehwag and Piyush

2011-07-05T23:55:00.000-07:00

Hyundai is the world of good if you decide to be an official partner of the historic Automotive 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, like the Africa Cup of Nations has won the World Cup for the second time.

A sign of appreciation, the Korean automaker has equipped each member of the Indian World Cup winning team with a new Verna in India, which was launched just over a month ago. This new and elegant sedan with new language of fluid engineering company, has already received over 21,000 bookings after launch.

So while some of you can expect delivery of the car has two main contributors to the victory of Indias World Cup, Virender Sehwag and Piyush Chawla are the keys to their new Verna at a ceremony in New Delhi.

On occasion, Arvind Saxena, Director of Sales and Marketing, HMIL, said: It gives us immense pleasure to introduce the members of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 with the winning team of the new Hyundai Verna bring new philosophy fluid design and offers the best in class design, quality and technology. HMIL plans to organize similar ceremonies to call the new members of the Verna another team in India in their respective states of origin

Ford Figo in India

2011-07-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

Ford is a multinational car manufacturing plant in corporate America. The Company must make the reports in earlier times, the new car model will be launched in India next 3.5 years. Now the company is preparing to build another model. Ford Figo is expected to start the engine with a Ford Fiesta. Ford India is planning to set up manufacturing units in Gujarat, the capacity of three lakh units per year. Ford will launch in India Figo 1.5 very soon.

Ford Figo is a small car and the Ford Fiesta is a popular classic car. The company wants to combine the specifications of the car and want to develop a new model for a large car. Figo Ford 1.5 diesel is becoming the trend gap between the two cars. This model is to have spacious interiors with beautiful skin fine. External surfaces are very attractive and glossy sure to attract a car to car enthusiasts. Ford, the company sold 29 488 units of cars in 2009 and 83 887 cars in 2010, showing a great interest in growing companies. Today in 2011 the company sold more than 51 000 cars, with exports in five months. Ford, the company received more than 71 percent of the automotive market sales record.The company becomes large number of responses across the globe and Ford gets the hot seat number one position. Ford is second in the car in South Africa at New Year. CEO and president of Ford India said the company achieved this prestigious position with an attractive design and quality and energy efficient models. Figo Ford 1.5 diesel car pictures are available on the Internet and become the center of attraction.

Car Caring Tips in the Monsoon

2011-07-02T05:14:00.000-07:00

The automotive experts offer their customers to get a wax done just before the rains to protect the paint on cars. If neglected in a few months you will see fading of the paint and coat. Get bibs. This will help keep the sides of your car clean. And what will also keep the obscenities of the other drivers! In case of rain pour heavy, visibility is poor, not only for yourself but also for the people driving behind you. In order to check the headlights and taillights of the car before hitting the road.

Car Care monsoon is ventilation, aeration and ventilation. If the inside of the car is wet, roll the windows and let dry. Be sure to empty interior and mud and dirt regularly. Do not forget to use a car perfume at the end.

In the monsoon usually carpets the ground and get wet in a hurry. Therefore, to get the carpets are a renowned brand of fabric keeps its original carpets dry and free of stains. Avoid rubber mats because they do not absorb water well. Or you can use an old carpet and throw every time it rains. Replace the brush to the monsoon.

Make sure the wipers operate smoothly. Also check inside the cracks, leading to irregular cleaning windscreen, which lowers the level of visibility. During heavy rains, the roads are usually immersed in water, in which drivers play hide-hole game. Therefore, it is obvious to control the pressure in all tires, including the connection - as the tire pressure often means less than shit.

To prevent corrosion, to obtain a spray anti-rust coating on the vehicle body. Accelerate the car while you hold the brake pedal to dry the wet brakes can reduce efficiency. Last but not least get a good radio from the nearest store. As the monsoon means traffic jams in the area clogged with dirty rain water and soaked up all the men. A radio of good will push you into a world of dreams and will certainly remove your rage.

Looking for Best Car Deals

2011-07-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in buying a new four-wheel drive, but money is limited, you can find special offers provided by vehicle manufacturers. Even if you only have a limited budget looking for best car deals, you can still buy a hybrid car, if you want.

One of the things you can enjoy the season of sales reported by the car dealers, etc.. Wait until the announcement of promoting the bank before spending your savings on your dream trip. You can still visit several stores to equip you with information on rebates and offers discounts on cars. Alternatively, you can try is to find coupons offered by commercial websites. You can get the promotional code and use it if your buying decision has become final. However, be careful when using car discount coupons, since some of them are created by fraudulent individuals. So if you do not want to be cheated and want to be able to make the most of their funds to ensure that you visit a reliable and reputable.

Utility: Insurance Further Discredited

2011-07-01T04:46:00.000-07:00

In our first article on auto insurance, which scratched the surface of car insurance - how and why the insurance, filing a complaint and what to expect. This time we go to the next level. And do not worry, it will not be as confusing as the dreams of Leonardo DiCaprio. We are the exception.

So you bought a comprehensive car insurance with your car and you have applied for a repair due to mindless rickshaw driver who had little grip and even less sense. But you still have to cough up money for repairs - this is not a task for the insurance company? Is not that why you paid a decent amount of money on a comprehensive plan, instead of a third party good

The insurance company may pay for the repair and replacement, but they follow a complex formula that determines the current value of the game. The key word here is "current". The same logic that the value of the car - if you tried to sell your car today, you will not get the amount paid for it when new, you? Insurers values the result necessary documents and pay so much money to replace them. You must pay the rest, and it can be a pretty package, such as plastic parts, nylon or rubber to cushion half their original value in an insurance claim. Rub salt into the wound is that these parts are generally not repairable, they must be replaced, and finally, the bumpers are made of plastic - so that any diversion will make you pay a reasonable amount.

We did a little 'dull, and this list of the usual amount of depreciation second ICICI Lombard

Rubber / nylon / plastic parts: 50 percent

Fiberglass parts: 30 percent

The metal parts (age of the car more than 6 months but less than one year): 5 percent

Metal parts (age of the car 1-2 years): 10 percent

The metal parts (the car age 2-3 years): 15 percent

Algae May Power The Future Electric Cars

2011-06-30T04:30:00.000-07:00

If you are concerned that future cars can be filled with algae in the tank, do not worry, it will not. As the latest research at MIT, USA, Yacoby Iftach researcher found a way to produce four times the amount of hydrogen, which is normally produced in the formation of algae sugar. Algae and certain types of bacteria use sunlight to convert water into sugars and hydrogen by chemical decomposition them in a manner respectful of the environment. Using an enzyme (a chemical to accelerate the reaction), hydrogen production increased by 400% without damaging the algae!

Hydrogen is produced by algae can be stored in gas cylinders, which can be used in fuel cells, which produce electricity for electric cars. The beauty of these electric vehicles is that fuel cells are generally only one release, which is water that does not pollute the environment and fuel cells are a very effective way of running a car. So far, the biggest challenge is to produce and store hydrogen fuel cells as the production of hydrogen is not easy or cheap. With the Bio-engineering algae to produce hydrogen at low cost, if the process has been developed on an industrial scale, algae can produce hydrogen fuel cells for electric cars start coming.

Imagine a car quiet, fast and pollution-free electrical future powered by fuel cells powered by hydrogen produced from algae, this certainly sounds like a green and a bright future. We hope that this research is outside the laboratory in the coming years, and has been in the industry.

Suzuki Swift Is The Best We've Ever Seen

2011-06-30T02:49:00.000-07:00

Suzuki Swift is a good car, or the current generation Maruti Suzuki Swift is scheduled to land in India in early 2011. Suzuki Swift, but this could be the best I've ever seen. So what makes this Swift, special? Suzuki UK, in association with the provision of leading cosmetic brand created this beautiful car. Suzuki Swift has been decorated with stickers of pink flowers throughout the body, mirror front and rear spoiler and rear rack also sport pink shade.

Door panels of this interesting topic Swift Sport "laughter is the best cosmetic ... so grin and use it." Suzuki is the granting of this rose SWIFT lottery winner at the end of 2010 Clothes Show Live, which was designed for the first week of December 2010.

"Visitors are invited to the Suzuki booth and enter your details in the daily draw to become one of the lucky finalists. The last day of exposure, Wednesday, December 8, the finalists will be invited back to see if they are the lucky winner of the car, "said the press release from Suzuki.

It will be interesting to see how a special Swift on the ground in India too!

Toyota Etios - Exclusive Video

2011-06-30T02:42:00.000-07:00

Set for Toyota Etios Liva is set to start. In the morning, he published an article containing Etios Liva presented. Hatchback buyers are waiting to know the next Toyota Etios Liva prices. How Etios Liva launch is an hour away, we have the exclusive video - TV commercials Etios Liva. So enjoy Wheelosphere.

Ford India to spotlight on cars based on diesel platforms

2011-06-29T04:42:00.001-07:00

With gasoline prices spiraling upward, Ford India will focus on diesel-run cars for future launches.

"Gas prices are getting older, and this has stabilized the share of diesel cars sold in favor of models" Ford India Vice President Nigel Wark said in response to a question Kolkatha Wednesday.

Wark said Ford India had lined up eight product launches in the middle of this decade. "Future products will be mainly on the diesel platform. This created a lot of stress to produce diesel cars, "he said.

Clocking a turnover of 83,000 units in 2010, the company has already reached sales of 58,000 units to date. "This year we will be in contact with the one lakh mark," he said.

Wark said Ford India will expand at a faster rate than the industry, which increased to 17 percent. Ford new small car to help sales of the company in a major way. The company exports to 50 countries Figo said.

Toyota defys hatchbackers with aggressive Liva pricing

2011-06-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

Looking at the small car market booming in India, Toyota on Monday launched its entry level sedan 1.2 liters of gasoline prices between Rs3.99 lakh Toyota Etios Liva RS5 lakh to 0.99 (ex-showroom Delhi). Toyota Etios Liva compete with the Maruti Swift, Hyundai i20 and a variant of the i10, Chevrolet Beat, Ford and Honda Jazz Figo. J Liva, the basic version is always lakh price 3.99 euros against the segment leader of Swift 4.09 lakh. J Liva But it lacks some features such as address Swift LXI. In fact, Liva G - at a price of Rs4.49 lakh - better compare with Swift LXi.

So it will affect the volume of Swift, Beatrice, Figo and i20? Mayank Pareek, Head of Sales and Marketing, Maruti Suzuki said his company does not intend to take all measures prices due to the arrival of Liva and the new operator must not change the market dynamics . Maruti is ready with a new improved version of Swift. Liva and only comes with an option to gasoline, it does not compete with the diesel version of Swift, Figo or soon-to-be-launched diesel beat.

Toyota, the worlds largest carmaker, expects to launch in the quantities with Liva, its the cheapest in India. It is built on the platform of Etios sedan. Etios was launched in December and has sold over 20,000 units.

Asked if Liva take away from existing B-segment player Jnaneshwar Sen, Honda Siel Cars India senior vice president, sales and marketing, said that the segment of B + (plus cars and rising costs of RS4 lakh) has increased by over 20% and the launch Liva can only lead to market expansion rather than to extract significant market share from existing players. Hyundai Motor India Director (marketing and sales) Arvind Saxena has repeated these sentiments, saying this segment of passengers will grow again and absorb 3000-3500 units per month sales volume expected Liva.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) aims to double total sales volume of 140,000 units in 2011 on the back of Etios and Liva. Sandeep Singh, deputy director general, said: The duo will help us reach a critical size in India this year we expect to sell 140 000 units in 2012, would go to 2,10,000 units, This calendar, TKM expects to sell 20,000 units Liva. Toyota has invested around Rs 200 crore in three in the Etios platform development and the establishment of a second plant in Karnataka, with the capacity to manufacture 70,000 units and year Etios Liva

Tata Motors Increases Nano Small Car Production by Twofold

2011-06-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Prompted by a growing demand and enhanced sales of Tata Nano, car manufacturer Tata Motors has decided to double the production of its famous small car. KHT Motors, one of the leading Tata and Fiat cars dealers in Bangalore, believes that this move by Tata Motors would help it deliver the cute Nano on time to the customers.

In the past four months, the Indian automobile industry has seen a rising sales trend and now Tata Motors has announced to increase the unit production by up to 20,000 per month. In the month of March 2011, Tata Nano registered total sales of a record breaking 9000 units.

“After the initial lot of customers, the Tata Nano is now reaching out to others who have not been traditional car users, such as bike buyers. We will aim a bit higher in production now (than the original plan to make 15,000 units a month this fiscal). We are targeting a production capacity of 18,000-20,000 a month this fiscal,” a top Tata Motors official said.

Last year, Tata Motors introduced a number of plans and strategies to enhance the sales of the Tata Nano after the car recorded a dip in its sales during September to November. Indian car making giant Tata Motors announced several new schemes including a free four-year/60,000-km extended warranty and a comprehensive maintenance contract for new buyers at Rs 99 a month. Additionally, Tata Motors Finance also came in the picture to offer up to 90 per cent finance for the Nano at easy rates.

What Your Car Color Says About You?

2011-06-14T01:45:00.000-07:00

While shopping clothes, shoes, your phone, or just any household products, perhaps you have always asked the shopkeeper if the product is available in your favorite color. Whenever we buy something, it is a natural tendency to choose our favorite color. The same thing applies when it comes to buying a car. While some has a special fascination for white, some may prefer more jazzy color like red or orange. But do you know, the color you choose, reveals a lot about your personality? Experts believe while youngsters prefer red or green, perfectionists prefer white. Have you ever imagined color can speak so much? Read through these interesting facts and find what your car color says about you!

A black vehicle says you are empowered and could not be manipulated easily. It also reveals that you appreciate classics and love elegance.

If you are a corporate professional, then go for neutral gray which perfectly reflects your profession. A neutral gray hue means you are sober and pragmatic.

If you own a dark blue vehicle, it signifies you are confident, credible, and dependable while an orange vehicle symbolizes a fun loving, talkative, trendy, and fickle personality. Are you trendy, lively, and whimsical? If yes, then bright yellow-green shade is the right to match your personality!

A silver car generally signifies a cool and elegant personality. If deep purple is your preferred color, it signifies you are creative, individualistic, and original. On the other hand, a deep brown car represents a personality who is very down to earth and practical.

Maruti Swift Dzire Gets Trimmed– Price Expected to Slash Down

2011-05-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

The introduction of the new trimmed version of Maruti Swift Dzire has boosted up competition between mid-sized vehicles in Indian auto market. The new model of Swift Dzire will be trimmed by 4 meters. As speculated, the new version of Maruti Swift Dzire 2011 will come with a cheaper price tag as well.

Right now, the present model of Swift Dzire measures 4160 mm in length which has an excise duty of 22%. The new trimmed model is speculated to slash down the excise duty in the range of 11% which means the new model will be priced INR 40,000 less. This is an interesting strategy seen from Maruti to offer this highly desired car in a lesser price.

However, there is a drawback as well for this new model. With the size brought down, it is expected that the new model will lack the boot space and the interior space will be little congested in contrast to its predecessor. We will be eagerly looking forward to the marketing strategy of Maruti for the new version as remarkable boot space was a major selling feature of Maruti Swift Dzire. As Maruti has already announced, the all new variant of the popular Maruti Swift Dzire will be launched in the second half of 2011.

Toyota Etios vs Mahindra Verito – A Close Look

2011-05-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

If you are planning to buy a luxury sedan in India, then Toyota Etios and Mahindra Verito can be a good choice for you, especially if you are not just planning to buy a car but looking for a valuable investment. If you have already narrowed down your search to these two cars and contemplating which one to go for, then here we have compared the performance of both the cars to help you make an informed decision.

If you have ever traveled in a Logan then you must have remembered the supple ride quality. The all new Mahindra Verito promises the same ride quality with a generous ground clearance as Verito is just an overhauled Logan with a new name. The car is equipped with a stiff chassis coupled with the generous travel of the suspension shocks that further ensures a good ride quality. On the other hand, Toyota Etios has a stiff suspension setup which cannot resist speed bumps from entering the car’s cabin.

Although Verito has compromised its aerodynamics parts for better utilization of the interior space, the handling of the car is still pretty decent. The steering wheel is also very direct and smooth ensuring a smooth driving experience for the driver. On the contrast, Etios has a much lighter steering wheel which comes handy in city driving. Plus, it has a lower kerb weight and a light steering that makes Toyota Etios a perfect car for city driving. Interestingly, Etios has proved to be a high performer on highways as well despite of its low kerb weight.If you are wondering about the Noise, Vibration, and Harshness, then be assured, Toyota motor will outperform the Renault motor by far. However, the Etios produces more noises as it has restrained from adding enough damping material under the hood. On the other hand, Renault motor is a silent performer even at an elevated speed.

Petrol Price causes diesel Car Sales Growth in India

2011-05-19T01:46:00.000-07:00

Bad news for Indian people, oil companies have announced a price increase of Rs. 5 per liter making the price of Petrol in Delhi Rs. 63.37 Per liter, in Mumbai its now Rs. 68.80, in Kolkata its priced at Rs. 67.50 and in Chennai it now costs Rs. 68.36 per liter. Not only this, the most terrible news is that another price elevate is predictable very soon as the oil companies are still consecutively in loss on petrol prices. The prices of Diesel still not yet been increased. This will only put more saddle on the ordinary commuters however will keep some manage on food price rises as the majority of heavy transport vehicle use diesel as fuel.

Another bad news would come soon with another price rise which possibly will be announced in a couple of months from now. This price augmented announced today will be valid from the 15th of May 2011. This raise will priest drive up the sales of diesel cars in India as running cost of a petrol car is almost twice now with the price differential of the diesel and petrol prices in India is almost a steep two folds. This differential is because of the financial support which India govt. affords on diesel fuel in India.

Volkswagen Passat At the IPL Final

2011-05-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

It’s one thing to buy your car from a regular dealer, but how about winning it in an auction? And then when you know that the price you’re paying for the car at the auction is going to go towards bettering the environment at the hands of the World Wildlife Fund, it just makes the whole experience sweeter. It doesn’t end there either – imagine if the car in question is going to come autographed by all the captains of the 2011 IPL season and will be handed over to you just before the final match, with the whole country watching! Well, trust Volkswagen to unite all its synergies in a unique campaign and that’s exactly what they’ve done with the all-new Passat. Volkswagen is already an official partner for the 2011 IPL season thus cashing in on the cricket-craze in India. But the Passat isn’t just about great performance – it is also about going green and with the car loaded with BlueMotion Technology, the natural instinct is to hook up with the foremost environment-awareness organization in the world – WWF.

So one Cashmere Brown Volkswagen Passat in Highline trim will be up for everyone to bid come April 25th for 10 days. If anyone’s interested, you can try your luck through the IPL website which will then route you to eBay to place your bids. Commenting on the auction, Mr. Lutz Kothe, Head of Marketing and PR, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt Ltd said, “We chose to auction our newest product, the All-new Passat and donate its proceeds to an organization like the WWF which is dedicated to conserving the environment i.e. also in line with our Think Blue campaign. The All-new Passat is on display at all the stadiums of the IPL matches and we are very happy with the response that we have received since its launch late last month.” The car itself is a treat – park assist, great interiors, auto start-stop system, powerful performance and awesome efficiency come guaranteed with it, but with this particular one that will be auctioned out, the owner will also get an autographed cricket bat!

Fabulous Indian Wedding Cars

2011-05-06T02:49:00.001-07:00

The marriage produced nirvana, however, will be determined on the planet. This unique choice is linked to our God has really changed in a successful star of the show, and trappeur. Many of the lifestyle associated with Indian wedding to actually build and be happy with pomp and show and also enjoy a joke. For Asia is a region with very different ways of life, including religious beliefs, particularly in the proposals to make this type of service are usually very beautiful, special addition to the promotion of local tissue full of expensive and beautiful. ways to judge between the point and religion, this fall to hold ceremonies to enjoy the frothy occasions. This and individuals linked to their properties, is activated by your organization, because his life from the set. For pre wedding situations, the main day and special occasions post wedding Vidal.

Volkswagen New Beetle

If you are a young couple who gave a small reception, the new Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet is a very nice car and classic for his daughter was escorted to the room. The New Beetle Cabriolet is a modern version of the original Beetle Convertible. Design details of its classic predecessor, the new model of inner values are entirely modern, but yes, I remember the lily white, that go perfectly with the beetle!

Mercedes-Benz SLK 200

If you as a couple has a sporty look and do things that I like adventure, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 is the car that his wife would love to come to F1-inspired lines and broad, muscular, SLK-Class Roadster is a higher level and give your love without even a memory that would last a lifetime for her.

Mitsuoka Nouera

Having described above, let someone who is too picky and demanding. So if you are one of those couples, the Mitsuoka shall be the most coveted and elegant option to go with. This four-door sedan will give you the perfect look English.

Mini Cooper Cabriolet

So, you are a person who has traditional values but modern at the same time. Well, this Mini Cooper Convertible is just that, a modern mix of old-school beauty and modern entertainment.

Limousine

If you do not want to mislead you on your D-Day, Limousine is the safest choice to go with. It's a perfect car, used to describe all of the above: It is elegant, classic and traditional anyway.

Finally, before you make some of these you have to decide the style and age of your wedding car to suit your wedding ceremony and dressing style also

Hyundai Verna RB - Gift to the Victorious Indian Cricket Team

2011-04-13T03:11:00.000-07:00

Saying that cricket is a religion in India would be stating the obvious. After a long gap of 28 years, the Indian cricket team has brought home the Cricket World Cup, and everyone is looking for ways and means of showing their happiness. The team has been flooded with all kinds of goodwill including cash, real estate, endorsements — and cars. Recently, Hyundai found a very novel way of congratulating the victorious Indian cricket led by none other but the very handsome and successful M.S. Dhoni.

Hyundai Motor Co., which was one of the sponsors, has announced that it will give each team member a 2011 Hyundai Verna RB. The new 2011 Hyundai Verna RB features Hyundai’s fluidic design sculpture which is very much obvious in the other small cars of Hyundai such as the Hyundai i20. The new 2011 Hyundai Verna RB flaunts a hexagonally carved grille, a striking headlamp, and daytime-running LEDs on the fog lamps’ outer edges.

The interiors of the car are equally impressive with new upholstery and dual-tone themed interior. A number of comfort features will come as standard in the new 2011 Hyundai Verna RB, such as push start/stop button, automatic climate control, audio control on steering wheel, airbags and ABS. The new Hyundai car will be launched soon in the Indian market.

Speaking on this announcement, H W Park, MD & CEO, HMIL, said, “As the official car partner for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, we will be extremely delighted to felicitate the Indian cricket team with All-New Verna much ahead of its market launch in the country. This is a part of our continuous effort to bring passion to the game of cricket and we have taken many such initiatives like the Hyundai Fan Park, First and Last ball tour amongst others during the entire world cup campaign. I wish team India all the very best and hope that they realize the dream of the nation to win the world cup.”

M&M to Introduce 7 New Vehicles in the Upcoming 18 Months

2010-11-23T04:41:00.000-08:00

Mahindra & Mahindra is planning to launch as many as seven new vehicles in passenger vehicle segment in the Indian market in the next 15-18 months. The upcoming cars would include an all-new premium SUV from its own stable and two from the recently-acquired Korean company Ssangyong, apart from new versions of Logan.

M&M also has lined up investments in excess of Rs 7,000 crore over 2011-13, and will focus on multi- and sports-utility space. “We are in the process of working out a number of new models, and these would hit the market in the next 15-18 months,” Rajesh Jejurikar, chief executive of Mahindra’s Automotive Division

“Our focus would clearly remain in the SUV space and a variety of factors make us confident on the segment that we feel will grow at double-digit rates over the next few years. While globally the ratio of SUVs and MPVs to cars is 40%, in India it is still at 15%. Now, with the rapid growth in demand, even if this goes up to 22-23 %, we are talking of sustained double-digit growth over the next couple of years.”

The Indian carmaker is also planning to begin with the introduction of Thar, a reworked version of the Commander that was pulled off the roads in early 2000. The retro-styled SUV is expected to hit the Indian roads soon.

M&M is also doing the final rounds of a new global SUV that will be placed above the Scorpio. The new vehicle is expected to be a crossover, and the company is said to be investing around Rs 700-800 crore for the development of the vehicle that is likely to roll out during this financial year.

Ambassador Goes for a Makeover, First Variant in December

2010-11-22T03:17:00.001-08:00

To say that the Ambassador has become totally obsolete in the Indian market would be an understatement of grave proportions. And hence Hindustan Motors has brought in Pune-based design firm Onio Design for giving a brand new look to the iconic car Ambassador. And the first variant of the car would be ready by December.

HM has come up with this strategy to revitalise the company, which is on the verge to refer to BIFR following 90% net worth erosion in the first quarter of this fiscal.

“The first prototype will be ready by December this year. The first new look Amby will be commercially launched in first quarter of 2011-12. We can say that it would be a better proposition. Our aim to broadening the target audience is by offering Amby in different variants. The new variant will be rolled out from Uttarpara. All the new variants of the Ambassador will be available with an engine size ranging between 1500 cc to 2000 cc," he said

He also mentioned that the company sold 8000 units of the Amby in the previous fiscal, and plans to sell more than 10,000 units this fiscal.

"The company is mulling options to manufacture a hatchback car in the coming months. However, the manufacture of the car will be based mainly on the feedback from customers and we will introduce a totally new variant of ambassador, the design of which is being done by a Pune based company," Jha said.

Jha brushed aside concerns over the Rs.70 crore debts that the company has already run up, and said that considering the size of the company, the debt figure was "nothing catastrophic".

"If the current trend of increase in price of raw materials continues, the company will be forced to pass on the cost to the customers. In October this year, the company has already increased the price of its cars between Rs.2,000 and Rs 3,000," added Jha.

Sougat Sen, senior director SIAM, said: "The car makers were being hit by rising input prices. However, there has been no corresponding increase in the price of cars which made it all the more difficult for them to sustain it."

Honda India Planning to Build New Plant

2010-11-19T04:34:00.001-08:00

Honda is planning to add a new plant in India to boost its production. The Japanese company is the third largest Japanese car brand is in the Indian market after Suzuki and Toyota. Honda also plans to launch a small car just before next Diwali. Honda is all set to launch the car at the 27th Thailand International Motor Expo 2010, which starts on November 30. The concept car was also showcased at the Auto Expo 2010.

“We are looking at launching the car before the next festive season. The new small car will be manufactured from the company’s Greater Noida plant,” said Tatsuya Natsume, director - marketing for Honda Siel Cars India.

The small car is expected to be tagged below the Rs 5 lakh category and will be launched in two variants. Honda can increase the capacity at its Noida plant to 100,000 units a year from 60,000. But increasing the production beyond that would be a problem.

"We have some limited room to expand after hitting 100,000 units a year. Initially we will manufacture the vehicle from the existing facility but since it is a volume-driven segment we may look at having an additional plant. We are also increasing our dealer network. As of today we have 121 dealers and we plan to take this number to 150 by next year,” said Natsume.

Mitsubishi India to Launch the Evo-X at Rs 49.95 Lakh

2010-11-18T04:55:00.000-08:00

Indian car fans are smitten by the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, and it was time that the Japanese carmaker finally brought the beast in the Indian market. In fact, even after announcing the upcoming launch of the aforementioned car, the company has not launched the car yet.
Now the Mitsubishi Evo X is on display at the Autocar Performance Show in Mumbai. And we have reasons to believe that the company has the car at 49.95 lakh rupees (ex-showroom Delhi). The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is currently the fastest version of Mitsubishi’s motorsport derived machine. The car features the lightweight aluminum 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) petrol engine and generates 403bhp and 387lb.ft of torque. The Evo can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in a mere 3.8 seconds. And at places where it is permissible, the Evo can make your ride as fast as 250kmph.The car will be launched in the Indian market as Completely Built Unit.

Toyota Breaks All Ties with Hispania Racing Team

2010-11-16T03:23:00.000-08:00

Everyone was excited when the Hispania Racing Team came forward as a last minute addition to the 2010 season grid. But financial crises and the absence of any points in the past nineteen races has put the team’s future in utter jeopardy. And now Cologne-based Toyota has confirmed that that "all cooperation with Hispania has been terminated".

HRT is very much surprised with the statement made by Toyota. "This matter will be the subject of further clarification," read a Hispania statement. Hispania technical chief Geoff Willis said there would be no comment until explanations had been sought from team principal Dr Colin Kolles and owner Jose Ramon Carabantes.

Kolles has earlier said the team plans to stay with engine supplier Cosworth next season. HRT recently made a pact with the Williams team, which is also powered by Cosworth, to use its gearboxes next season. Last year, Toyota withdrew from the Formula One scene but had already made a car for 2010, which Hispania was reportedly in advanced talks to use in 2011.

According to the statement made by Toyota, HRT has not met its contractual payment obligations to Toyota. "Toyota retains all intellectual property rights to its current F1 car and is completely free to pursue other projects and support new customers for its high-performance engineering services," added Toyota.

"Toyota regrets that HRT has not met its contractual payment obligations and will pursue all available options to reach a satisfactory conclusion to this matter."

Nissan to Source More Auto Parts from Thailand

2010-09-10T06:11:00.000-07:00

Japanese car maker Nissan Motors has revealed that the company will significantly increase auto parts procurement from Thailand. Thailand has the reputation of providing high-quality components at low prices.

Nissan is planning to use Thai-made components across its factories in 15 countries. This move will dramatically enhance Thailand’s position as a key parts-supplying base after Japan. Nissan’s exports of Thai auto parts, primarily those used in the March (known as Micra in India) hatchback manufactured in China and India, are expected to increase double on the year to about $1 billion in fiscal 2010.

This plan of action was announced on Thursday by Nissan Motor (Thailand) Co. President Toru Hasegawa, who was in Yokohama to outline the company's long term business goals.

Nissan started manufacturing the March/ Micra, its global strategic car, in Thiland from March and procured more than 90 per cent of the parts locally. The company wants to further bring down the costs by purchasing more auto parts in Thailand, and ship them to the company’s other production bases like India and China.

Nissan recently launched its small car Micra in India, and it is doing well. With premium features like electric power steering, climate control AC, comfortable seats, the car has already found a loyal fan following in the Indian market.

Crisil Research says that 117 million Households will be Able to Afford Cars by 2015

2010-09-09T23:29:00.000-07:00

CRISIL research has revealed that higher income level will enable 117 million households in India to have a new car of their own by 2014-15. This means that the automobile industry in India would grow at 17-19 per cent to Rs 4,20,000 during this period.

"Considering the higher income levels and the stiff competition in the car market on pricing, 60-70 million households in India will be upgraded to a car-affordable financial level by 2014-15, taking the number of households at this level to 117 million," Crisil Research Director (Operations) Nagarajan Narasimhan said.

The not so bright part of the research says that there would be just 17 car-owners per thousand people. In the medium-term (next two years), the industry will see an investment of almost Rs 35,000-40,000 crore by manufacturers and another Rs 20,000-25,000 crore by auto component players.

Manufacturers will invest heavily in solving capacity constraint problem and new models, and component makers will invest to bridge the demand-supply gap for specific auto components. The major auto makers will have to try their best to safeguard their market share as the competition become fiercer.

Increasing competition will hamper the automakers’ profitability too, given the fall in average sales per model by 3 per cent annually. Auto makers will now have to direct their focus on expanding their product portfolio and technology-based differentiation to maintain market position.

Increasing cost of raw materials has brought down the margins of auto component makers in recent years, Crisil Research Director Mukesh Agarwal said. As car makers also depend on their global parents for technology and model variations, royalties are going to increase too.

Nissan’s Green Initiatives

2010-07-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

Nissan is in limelight with its latest Electric Vehicle, Leaf, and there are a few more zero emission vehicles that the car manufacturer would launch. In the meantime, the company has introduced a number of new developments to its powertrain range. The Japanese company has currently shifted its focus on reducing emissions and increasing the fuel efficiency of its vehicles.

The new range of engines takes off with the Micra which will be launched in the country on the 14th of July. The 3-cylinder HR12DE engine features a Start-Stop option as standard in Japan, which is if combined with a XTRONIC CVT gives a mileage of 26km/l. Like most other car manufacturers would downsize the engines and add turbochargers/superchargers to improve power and fuel economy.

The Nissan Juke will come with a 1.6L turbo-petrol engines that churns out 187bhp (HR15DE). The Nissan X-Trail will get a new clean diesel engine ((M9R) too. This engine, which will be paired with an automatic transmission, will comply with the most stringent global emission norms. Nissan has also come up with a unique hybrid system which is targeted to be the most efficient 1-motor, 2-clutch parallel full hybrid system. This system will be available on the Infiniti M in late 2010.

There is another advanced fuel-efficient technology to be launched in FY2010 is Nissan’s new 1.5-liter engine (HR15DE), which happens to be the world’s first mass-produced 1.5-liter engine with dual injectors (2 compact injectors per each cylinder). This engine is currently in the Nissan JUKE that was launched in Japan in June 2010.

Additionally, there is a newly developed 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline Turbocharged Engine, which follows the company’s downsizing concept. It will combine a turbocharger with a low displacement engine and will offer both higher power output and lower fuel consumption. This engine will be available in the Nissan JUKE in the second half of FY2010.

Toyota Diesel Altis To Come To India This Month

2010-07-10T05:13:00.001-07:00

Currently the talk of the town is the small car segment in the Indian market. But the sedan segment is slowly catching up. In the premium sedan segment, we are going to see some real competition now. Toyota is planning to launch a diesel variant of its well selling Altis this month. Currently, the Japanese car maker offers the Altis in petrol variant only.

Toyota is hoping to get a larger share of the pie. “We are currently averaging between 750 and 800 cars monthly with the petrol Altis and the diesel variant is expected to give a further boost to our market share,” Sandeep Singh, deputy MD (marketing) at Toyota Kirloskar Motors, said.

The premium sedan segment is categorized in the price range of Rs 10 lakh and Rs 15 lakh, and includes models like Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta. Due to economic recession, the segment was affected badly. But the segment is witnessing the good times again, and is growing now by around 30%. So much so that the monthly sales in the segment is now averaging around 3000 units.

The share of diesel variants in the segment has been seeing an upward growth too, especially after General Motors launched the Chevrolet Cruze last year. “The overall package on the Cruze is compelling and we are confident of maintaining our numbers. The diesel Altis will help expand the segment further,” said Ankush Arora, the sales and marketing Head for General Motors in India.

Singh said the diesel version — with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine — would see monthly numbers for the Altis going up to around 1100 units. “While we expect the diesel to sell more than petrol in the first few months, the ratio is expected to stabilise and stay equal later.” he said.

Toyota Altis petrol variant is currently priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom price Delhi). The diesel variant is likely to be priced a little higher than its petrol counterpart.

Meanwhile Honda is also planning to launch the facelifted Accord in the Indian market in the beginning of 2011. And chances are high that Honda will bring a diesel variant of the car too.

Robots To Help Ford Motor’ Meet Surging Demand

2010-07-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

Figo and Fiesta are doing extremely well in the Indian market and recently Ford started exporting petrol engines from its Chennai plant to Thailand. All these have led to a heavy surge in demand, and Ford is taking help of robots to help it out. That’s right. Ford Motor India has drafted a team of robots at its Chennai plant to cope up with the rising demands.

The team consists of 92 high-tech robots have been installed across the plant and these robots ease off as much as 30% of the total workload. The tasks mostly consist of repetitive tasks such as applying successive coats of paint, welding the car body structure, sealing a car’s underbody and hemming car doors.

The ‘robot hire’ plans comes as a component of an expansion plan designed by the company to meet increasing demand for the Figo. Ford India earlier took a giant leap and invested $500 million into Chennai plant last year. The upgraded facility now has an annual production capacity of 200,000 cars. In the upcoming months, the company plans to export the Figo to South Africa.

In the past five years or so, we have seen various car makers such as Ford, Hyundai, BMW, Renault Nissan invest billions of dollars in this South Indian state. Chennai is now strong enough to produce more than 1.5 million vehicles annually.

“We are in the small car Detroit of India. We are not just appealing to the domestic market, but focusing on a product line-up that can also be exported and I see tremendous further growth opportunities,” Michael Boneham, managing director of Ford India operation, said.

Long Waiting Period For Polo Prompts Customers To Look For Other Options

2010-07-08T05:26:00.001-07:00

German car manufacturer, Volkswagen launched its premium hatchback Polo in India in March 2010. And even though the new car is priced much higher than its competitors, the beautiful design and the class leading features of the car have helped the company get a very significant amount of bookings. So much so that the company is finding it difficult to meet the surgingdemand for the Polo.

Currently, there is a long waiting period for the New Polo, almost about 4 to 6 months. We are not exaggerating. Customers are getting increasingly ticked off with the waiting period and cancelling their bookings. Not one of the best things to happen to a car maker of a certain repute. Volkswagen has delivered 4,500 Polos so far, but is yet to clear the backlog of more than 10,000 units as of now.

The VW Vento has also been unveiled and the launch would follow close behind. And given the look and the features of the car, we expect it to become an instant hit in the entry level sedan segment. If the company prices the car well, it will bring volume bookings for the car maker. But, if this happens, it will only add to the woes of the company, as order backlogs would further pile up and increase the waiting period.

Neeraj Garg, Director, VW India said, “Waiting period for the Polo is four-six months. Whatever commitments we make to the customer, we’ve been able to honour that. There have been few cancellations by customers, around 30 to 40 from time to time. Immediate ramp-up is definitely not possible right now, because our plans are made accordingly. There will be no change in the short-term. In case we continue to have similar order bookings, we will build much higher capacities as quality gets matured.”

In a market like India, waiting periods in the small car segment play a very important part. The competition is cut throat and you just cannot afford to lose your customers.

Pre-launch Bookings Become the Latest Trend in Car Industry

2010-07-06T04:26:00.000-07:00

Gone are the days when car makers would keep their new cars under wraps till the actual launch. The new trend seems to be the one where car makers are not only showcasing their cars in advance but also accepting advance bookings.

In the past few months we have seen a number of new car launches, and we have also seen major car manufacturers such as Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan and Skoda create awareness about their upcoming cars among the Indian consumers. Many cars like Maruti Swift, Chevrolet’s Cruze and Beat, Ford Figo and Honda Jazz have benefited a lot from the pre-launch booking facility.

“We have done pre-launch bookings in only two cars — Cruze and Beat — so far but the response has been overwhelming,” said P Balendran, vice-president, General Motors India.

In the past few years, India has seen a number of new players like Toyota, Skoda, Ford, Honda and Nissan. These car makers have opted for this strategy to create awareness about their upcoming cars. Established players like Maruti, Hyundai and Tata, are still following their traditional way of publicising their cars, but would likely follow suit soon.

Nissan adopted a similar strategy while promoting its upcoming car Micra, which is going to be launched on the 14th of this month. The company opened the pre-launch bookings in May and since then, even though having only 11 operational dealerships, has managed to have more 1,500
bookings.

“We are confident now that this booking trend will continue to improve as we move closer to the start of sales in middle of July,” said Kiminobu Tokuyama, managing director and CEO, Nissan Motor India.

Skoda is planning to launch its compact SUV, Yeti in India, and the company started a forum where online bloggers, car fanatics, active tweeters and social networkers got together and discussed about the Yeti.

“Showcasing a car before it is officially launched and sharing product details with customers is a very healthy trend,” said Thomas Kuehl, board member (sales and marketing), Skoda India.

BMW To Make City Car Safer With Carbon Fibre

2010-07-02T05:28:00.000-07:00

BMW has announced that it will use carbon fibre to provide extra safety in its battery-powered city car. The same light weight material is used to protect Formula One drivers. The German company will use the fabric to construct a passenger-safety cell for the upcoming city car. According to Klaus Draeger, BMW’s development chief, the mixture of carbon fibre and aluminium will reduce as much as 350 kilograms of additional weight from the car.

As consumers and government shift their focus on alternative fuel cars, the world’s largest luxury car maker is hurrying up to manufacture battery powered vehicles. Some other car manufacturers like the General Motors Co. and Nissan Motor Co. are also expected to bring forth their electric vehicles this year.

The company will weave the carbon fibre at a $100 million factory near Seattle that the company is building together with its partner SGL Carbon SE. The fibres, which are composed of 50,000 filaments, will be made into fabrics and then hardened into components at facilities in Germany.

The car manufacturer is not revealing any details related to the price of the car. BMW has turned to carbon fibre to reduce the size and cost of the battery required to run the city car. The city car will be equipped with a 96-cell lithium-ion power pack.

“Weight in electric vehicles takes on a totally different dimension, and this weight improvement you can only get through carbon-fibre parts,” Herbert Diess, BMW’s purchasing and logistics chief had earlier said.

The BMW’s passenger cell will have enough space for four adults. “It’ll be the first large-scale vehicle with a passenger cell out of carbon,” Draeger said. “BMW will bring a revolutionary vehicle to the streets.”

SIAM Holds A Roundtable Seminar on Diesel Vehicle and Technologies

2010-07-01T05:27:00.000-07:00

Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) organised a roundtable which focused on diesel vehicle and technologies. While Anant Talaulicar, chairman, SIAM Diesel Image Group and chairman & managing director, Cummins India presided over the meeting, Ambuj Sharma, joint secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industry and Public Enterprises also attended the session as the Guest of Honour. Michael Angel, Daimler, Germany, Craig Barnes, chief technical officer,Cummins India and G. K. Acharya of Indian Oil Corporation shared their views on global diesel emission regulations, diesel technologies in the U.S., current and future clean diesel technology and diesel fuel quality trends in India. Allen R. Schaeffer, executive director, Diesel Technology Forum and Tomohiro Kaneko, Energy Affairs Department, Toyota Motor Corporation, Japan presented their studies through a web link.

The outcome of the roundtable stated, “There is a need for a holistic approach for diesel vehicle image make up by also addressing other mode of diesel consumption like off road equipment, tractors, power generation and old vehicles. The emission reduction beyond Euro V & VI would lead to increase in CO2 emissions and needs to be addressed. There is a need to develop a roadmap for 50 PPM sulphur diesel fuel in the country. This would enable the use of particulate filters and NOX reduction technology making the diesel vehicle cleaner. There is also a need to draw up a plan for making older engines cleaner through applying new after treatment devices in the Indian context through necessary incentives and strategies put in place as in US and Europe along with fleet modernization programme.”

SIAM is an apex national body which represents leading vehicle and vehicle engine manufacturers in India.

VW-Suzuki compact SUVs and cars

2010-06-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

It has been some time since Volkswagen bought 19.9% stakes in Suzuki. VW showed its strategic planning and intelligence by buying important stakes in Suzuki, and now the company has at its disposal the expertise of low cost car production that Suzuki is so famous for.

The German car manufacturing giant is planning to develop its next generation of small cars and compact crossovers/SUVs and Suzuki would come to its rescue. Suzuki is well known for its frugal engineering and packaging and the matrimony between the two would help both the brands and some of the other VW brands like Skoda and Seat.

Volkswagen is planning to bring its small car UP! in India and it can benefit from Suzuki’s expertise on low-cost packaging and cost effective manufacturing strategies. And rumours are high that the next generation Alto could be based on the VW UP! platform but it is certain that that car would not make it India.

Other Suzuki models that may entice the German car maker are the SX4 and the Grand Vitara. It is likely that VW would use the next generation SX4 to develop a small crossover to develop a small crossover.

The next generation Grand Vitara could be developed jointly by the two car manufacturing giants. This can take care of the gap in VW’s portfolio between the Tiguan and the Touareg.

Tata Nano Superdrive Concluded Successfully

2010-06-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Tata Nano Superdrive that was flagged off by Tata Motors Chief Ratan Tata on June 2, 2010, has finally concluded its 26 days tour. The Superdrive covered a total distance 15,000 km and while doing so touched 36 cities across the country.

The Nano Superdrive started from its new plant in Sanand, Gujarat, and altogether nine cars participated in the journey. The nine cars were divided in three groups and each headed in three different directions called as the ‘Saffron Route’, ‘White Route’ and ‘Green Route’, based on the three colours of the national flag.

The Saffron Route covered the north of India and the participating group visited Udaipur, Jaipur, Hisar, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Meerut, Agra, Lucknow, Kanpur, Gwalior and Kota. The tiny Nanos in the White Route toured across central to east India, and visited places such as Indore, Bhopal, Nagpur, Raipur, Ranchi, Patna, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad and Aurangabad. Meanwhile, the cars in the Green route travelled across west and south India including cities like Surat, Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Mangalore, Kochi, Coimbatore, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolhapur, Solapur, Nasik and Ahmadabad.

The Tata Nanos that were branded with the Superdrive became a showstopper wherever they went. Most of the prominent landmarks in the cities were visited by the Nanos. Citizens greeted the tiny Tata Nano with immense excitement and prospective customers were offered an opportunity to test drive and enjoy the cars.

Luxury Car Makers to Enter Used Car Market Soon

2010-06-28T05:26:00.000-07:00

German luxury car makers have taken the Indian new car market by storm, and now they want to establish their supremacy in the used car market too. Mercedes-Benz has already been in the Indian market for the past ten years and has announced its intention of entering the used cars market. Rival BMW is expected to tread the same path in the upcoming months.

This must come as a good news to people who have limited budget but aspire for luxury cars. These used cars will be available at about 50-60 percent cheaper than the brand new versions which start from Rs 25 lakh.

This certainly means that a three-to-four year old Mercedes Benz C-Class, which starts at Rs 28 lakh that has been used for around 50,000 km can be available for less than half its price, probably at the price of Honda Civic or Corolla Altis. But the question is, “how many people would warm up to the idea of buying an old Mercedes C Class, rather than buying a new Honda Civic or Corolla Altis?”

“While the final details are still being worked out, we will set up two dedicated showrooms for pre-owned luxury cars in Gurgaon and Chennai. We hope some of our existing customers can now upgrade to new cars,” a BMW spokesperson says.

This would be the first time in history when India can boast of having dedicated showrooms for pre owned luxury cars. Volume car makers like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai Motors, have already been in the used car business through their outlets like True Value or Hyundai Advantage respectively.

“Used car segment is something that every car manufacturer in the country would like to explore, depending on the initial volume base. Now these two big luxury car makers in the country seem to have a desired car park to make the business viable. Moreover, since these cars would be certified, it will boost buyer confidence as well as help companies to keep up the resale value of their cars,” Rakesh Batra, national head (automotive practice), Ernst & Young says.

Hyundai Motor to Re-launch the Elantra in India

2010-06-25T05:46:00.000-07:00

Just a few days back, Hyundai launched the Verna Transform in India, and now we have news that claims that the company will soon re-launch premium sedan Elantra. The Hyundai Elantra was phased out in India during 2007 due lack of much demand and dwindling sales in the country.

Additionally, the South Korean company also plans to launch the SUV Santa Fe in India in October this year. The SUV is expected to be priced around Rs 20 lakh (US$42,936) and Rs 22 lakh.

"We are reviewing the relaunch of our Elantra in the country which will be subject to the growth in the market size of the premium segment," company's Senior Director Y K Koo said here on Thursday. He, however, declined to reveal about the likely timeframe of the relaunch of Elantra.

"The market for premium segment in which Elantra fits in is just 3 per cent of total market size of cars in the country. But this market is growing," he said.

Hyundai was forced to phase out the luxury sedan, Elantra, in 2007 because of low sales in the nation. It competed with other models in the segment like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Skoda Octavia. When asked about the upcoming launches, Koo revealed that the company intends to launch the SUV Santa Fe in the second half of 2010.

"Santa Fe may be launched in the month of October and its price can be in the range of Rs 20 lakh to Rs 22 lakh which will be very competitive," he said.

He also mentioned, "The whole auto industry grew by 27 per cent in January-May but we post growth of 31 per cent," he said.

The country's second largest carmaker, Hyundai Motor India, fueled an investment of Rs 7 million for the Verna Transform. Also, the company intends to enhance the sales of the Verna Transform from 1,500 units per month to 2,000 units a month. Hyundai has managed to sell just 82,000 units of Verna since it was launched way back in 2006.

Akio Toyoda Apologizes to Shareholders

2010-06-24T05:05:00.000-07:00

Toyota has caused problems not only to its customers but to its shareholders too. That’s the reason that Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio Toyoda has been seen bowing to the shareholders because the global recall issues of the company’s vehicles.

Toyoda was meeting the shareholders for the first time since the saga of the company’s car recall started in October 2009. He mentioned that the company was doing its best to improve the quality bars of the company.

"I apologize deeply for the concerns we have caused," he said. "We believe our most important task is to regain customers' trust."

And although the shareholders’ meeting was not open to the media, the proceedings could be seen in a TV monitor in another room at Toyota headquarters. Toyoda held on to the bow for longer than a few seconds to convey his heartfelt regret for the recalls.

Toyota, the world’s biggest car maker, has been in the car recall soup ever since the many of its vehicles started experiencing unintended acceleration and other defects.

The apology was received with different reactions. While some officials acknowledged it with polite applause, a few others vented their anger.

Although the recall debacle hung over the shareholders' meeting, the statements from Toyoda and other officials were met with polite applause. A handful of shareholders shouted their anger.

"We want to make Toyota No. 1 in quality from the customers' viewpoint," Toyoda told shareholders.

Toyoda said that the directors on the board will forego their bonus payments for the second consecutive year. He also mentioned about his deal with Tesla Motors Inc., a U.S. electric car manufacturer, under which it will open an electric car plant at the site if its former venture with General Motors.

"Our company is about doing the right thing in the right way," he told the meeting. "And I like to think we are the kind of company that cares about people's feelings."

Nicolas Prost Drives F1 Renault!

2010-06-23T05:16:00.000-07:00

The 2010 F1 World Championship has been dramatic so far. While we saw the return of the F1 legend Michael Schumacher, we also saw the entry of Bruno Senna in the F1 grid. Senna is a surname that every F1 enthusiast is familiar with. Many of the F1 fans have been really happy to see the entry of the nephew of the late great Ayrton Senna. And now we have another comeback of a sort.

The legacy of the ‘Prost’ name has come back to where it always belonged. Nicolas Prost, son of the great Alain Prost, who has stepped into the F1 arena was driving a F1 Renault last weekend. Alain Prost is the third most successful F1 driver, after Michael Schumacher and Juan Manuel Fangio with 4 F1 Titles.

28 years old Nicolas Prost joined the Renault F1 team at the French track for the Renault F1 Roadshow. Junior Prost completed laps both in the morning and the afternoon in his Renault R29. While speaking about Formula One car, Nicolas Prost said, “It is a fantastic car obviously. The acceleration of the car is just incredible and everything works so smooth.” With this the rumours have started doing their rounds that halfway through the season that Renault will give him the reserve driver’s position or even a chance to race as well.

While we are talking about Prost, it is important to mention that current champion, Jenson Button will be driving Alain Prost’s 1986 McLaren-TAG Porsche at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next weekend.

Hybrid Cars - Not All that Safe?

2010-06-22T04:06:00.000-07:00

Technological advancements have affected the way we travel these days. You name it and they have it in their cars, right from DVD players, dashboard computers, Bluetooth to GPS tracking. But, one important point that they all seem to have overlooked is the fact that these advanced electronic gadgets create strong electromagnetic fields that affect the drivers in a negative way.

Additionally, global car manufacturers are trying to reduce fossil fuel dependence by coming up with electric and hybrid cars. But these green cars, apparently, emit electromagnetic radiations that can make the driver very uncomfortable. These electromagnetic radiations, in worst case scenarios, can cause side effects such as excessive drowsiness, headaches, neck pain, anxiety, heart palpitations, ringing in the ears, brain fog and irritability in many drivers.

Electric cars and hybrid cars, which run on electric batteries, emit high intensity electromagnetic radiations. Some cars emit as much as 4mg (milligram) radiations. This can be really harmful for children too.

A New York Times article claims that owners of electric cars actually tested their vehicles for electromagnetic radiations through hand-held meters. And some say that they were shocked by the results.

In the US, a few owners of cars like Toyota Prius and Honda Civic have complained about such side effects. The data, however, has not been confirmed by scientific research.

The car manufacturers say that the cars are totally safe. A New York Times article quoted Jim Kliesch, a senior engineer for the clean vehicles program at the Union of Concerned Scientists, "It would be a mistake to jump to conclusions about hybrid EMF dangers, as well as a mistake to outright dismiss the concern. Additional research would improve our understanding of the issue."

We are going to see a few electric and hybrid car launches in India itself, but the rules and regulations concerning these cars are not as strict as they are in the western countries.

But until the facts are established by research findings, it would be improper to jump to conclusions.

Autoliv Inc. opens new engineering and production facility in India

2010-06-21T05:35:00.000-07:00

When car makers are all rejoicing in the glory of the booming Indian auto market, why should others remain behind? They say: Make hay while the sun shines. Global leader in vehicle safety systems, Autoliv, Inc., has announced the launch of its new plant in India. This facility will accommodate the country's first safety center and airbag and seatbelt assembly unit.

The new plant, which is located in Bangalore, Karnataka, will provide vehicle manufacturers in India with testing and product developmentservices. This facility happens to be the company’s second airbag manufacturing plant in India. Just last year, the company had become the firstcompany to manufacture airbags in India.

"We are very proud of our new technical center, the first in India. The new facility plays a critical role in our global effort to improve safety for small cars. As we continue to develop our capabilities in India, the team here will play an increasingly important role in our global organization, " said Suresh Nandagopal, president Autoliv India.

Autoliv is one of the most recognised automotive safety products supplier in India. Apart from the Bangalore facility, the company has three other facilities in India. The prominent customers of Autoliv include Maruti-Suzuki, Mahindra, Tata, Toyota, Hyundai, Fiat, Ford, GM and Nissan.

Autoliv Inc., the global leader in automotive safety systems, develops and manufactures automotive safety systems for most of the new car manufacturers in the world. The company, through joint ventures, has footprints in about 29 countries across the globe and about 21 test tracks.

Anand Mahindra Terms US Lawsuit Against The Company As ‘Groundless’

2010-06-18T05:17:00.000-07:00

By now we all know the kind of mess Mahindra and Mahindra is in and all this has happened due to the lawsuit that the American company has filed on the Indian car maker. Now Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, has said that the lawsuit filed by Global Vehicles is groundless .

He mentioned on his twitter that the lawsuit has become an unfortunate event and the charges are groundless. He refrained from commenting because the issue is now legal.

M&M, was supposed to launch the pick-up trucks in the USA by early 2009, but the dates got postponed. And believe it or not, M&M has already missed two deadlines. Sure enough it caused the American distributor to take legal action against the Indian vehicle manufacturer. Now, the company plans to enter the US market by the end of 2010.

Global Vehicles, Atlanta based distributor Global, has filed a lawsuit before an Atlanta District Court and has alleged M&M that there have been inconvenient delays in the launch of the M&M's pick-up truck based on the Sports Utility Vehicle Scorpio platform. Earlier yesterday, a company spokesperson of M&M said that the company will contest the lawsuit.

The two companies, M&M and Global Vehicles entered into an agreement during September 2006 and at that time M&M promised to launch the pick-up by the end of 2009. This, however, got delayed because of regulatory constraints. M&M then revised the launch date and set it in the beginning of the fiscal year. The pick-ups could not be launched even at that time.

Global Vehicles has mentioned in the lawsuit that it has spent close to USD 35 million in preparation for the launch of the pick-up trucks. The US company has also urged the court to ban M&M from selling its vehicles in the US through another dealer.

Ford India Starts 4-day Monsoon Camps Across the Country

2010-06-17T04:16:00.000-07:00

The rainy season poses a lot of inconvenience to vehicle owners and drivers. And it is very important to monsoon-proof your car. But if you own a Ford car,you need not worry a lot about driving through the lashing rain. Yes, Ford India is soon going to start its monsoon camps across the country.

When the monsoon strikes the country, Ford will ensure a hassle-free Ford ownership experience for all its customer. The company will start a special monsoon camp at all its authorised dealerships across India.

The special monsoon camp, which starts this June, will be conducted over a period of 4 days. The customers can take advantage of free 50 point general check up and some exciting deals on servicing. While this will enhance the customer service of the company, it will also help the customer by making their new cars ready for the upcoming monsoons.

Customers who visit the Ford India monsoon camp can benefit from a number of deals and offers, including 50 per cent discount on Wiper Blade, 15 per cent discount on Brake Pads, free Windscreen Wash Fluid Pouch, 15 per cent discount on Mechanical labour for additional jobs identified during the monsoon check-up and a complimentary Top Wash.

And that is not all. Ford India has more to offer to its valued customers. A few lucky people can take home LCD TVs service coupons and car care treatments clubbed with value offers and discounts. The winners will be decided on the basis of lucky draw.

Defiance Technologies To Design Nissan's Compact Car

2010-06-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

By now, we all know that Japanese car maker, Nissan Motors, will be developing a compact car in joint venture with

India

’s second-largest commercial vehicle maker, Ashok Leyland. And now we have another update on that. Defiance Technologies, which is an offshoot of Ashok Leyland, will likely design the compact car.

The company is likely to announce the tie-up with Nissan on the small car at the company’s annual general meeting, which is due very soon. And what’s more, the blueprint for the compact car project is ready. Defiance Tech, which is a Detroit based firm that was taken over by Ashok Leyland in 2007, will design the car.

In March, Nissan had announced that it was in talks with Ashok Leyland for a small car priced at Rs 2.02-.225 lakh. Nissan senior vice-president Andy Palmer had indicated that their choice of partner would be Ashok Leyland.

"For this market (India), we haven't decided (about the partner), but clearly, one of very good candidates is my colleague sitting next to me", Mr Palmer said referring to Hinduja Automotive executive vice-chairman V Sumantran.

A very reliable source within the company has indicated that if an alliance is formalised with Nissan, Defiance Tech would be involved for the designing of the car.

"Nothing is wrapped up yet. Being the engineering and design arm within the group, we stand a definite chance. We expect to get clarity on the project and the association by mid-July," said this person who requested not to be named.

People familiar with the project have said that the small car project could roll out from a separate company, a possible name could be Hinduja Motors, and Mr Sumantran would spearhead the project.

"Nissan realises that it would be easier to make a price-centric vehicle with Ashok Leyland considering the latter’s low-cost manufacturing capabilities and established sales and distribution setup," said a person familiar of the development. We will have to wait till we get the engine and pricing details of the small car.

PSA Peugeot Citroen To Start A Greenfield Facility in Chennai

2010-06-15T05:37:00.001-07:00

European auto giant Peugeot is considering to re-start its Indian operations in the coming years. The company is hunting for a piece of land to set up its manufacturing plant in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is widely speculated that the Tamil Nadu government is in talks with the PSA Peugeot Citroen.

As of now, we do not have the details about the size of land, the amount of investment and other specifics. The company plans to set up a greenfield unit in the southern part of India. The official spokesperson of PSA Peugeot Citroen was unavailable to verify or deny this piece of information.

It has also been rumoured that the company plans to establish a component sourcing base, for its international operations, in India. Peugeot already has an office in Chennai which takes care of all its sourcing activity in India. The company will be playing safe in the Indian market and will launch its new cars only after the set up of an assembly facility in the country.

And here is another one gravitating towards the small car market in India. Peugeot will launch its small cars, especially the diesel variants, in India. However, as of now it is unclear as to whether Peugeot or Citroen will come first. Likely, the company will bring its hatchback 307 and sedan C5 in India.

About a decade ago, Peugeot sulkily left the Indian automobile market, but if there was ever a time to make a comeback, it is now. From what we learnt, the possibilities of the Peugeot Citroen making it to India with a line-up of small cars and mid-segment sedans are very high.

At of now, the second biggest car maker of Europe is studying the booming Indian passenger vehicle market.

Indian Small Car Segment Beacons Mahindra and Mahindra

2010-06-14T05:13:00.000-07:00

Indian auto maker Mahindra and Mahindra, who is well known in the industry as a utility vehicle manufacturer, may soon enter into the coveted small car segment. The company has revealed that it is drawing a strategic plan to invest about Rs 1000 crore to make its entry into the small car segment in

India

, which has become the major point of attraction for car manufacturers.

Some internal sources have also revealed that M&M is developing small cars that have been given S101, S102 and S103 as codenames. It is being speculated that the new small car platform is being developed in-house with a project cost ranging from Rs 800 crore to Rs 1400 crore.

And guess what, the pioneering personality behind the project is none other but M&M president, auto & farm equipment, Pawan Goenka. Mahindra & Mahindra is lagging behind in the race where most of the car manufacturers have already reached a certain comfort zone. M&M is expected to launch its small car in the market by the end of financial year 2014. And, the car is likely to be priced within Rs 2-5 lakh.

According to M&M, the small car portfolio will support the Logan and its future variants. And with the recent acquisition of Reva, the Indian car maker would also aim to bring in some new electric car based projects.

Recently, M&M bought 55.2 per cent stake in the Bangalore based electric car making company through a combination of equity purchase from the promoters and fresh investment of over Rs 45 crore in the company equity.

Lamborghini Concept Car : Navarra concept

2010-06-11T03:24:00.000-07:00

The Raging Bull is back in news and all for the right reasons. After the Cnossus, Minotauro, Miura Nuovo, Conquisto, Furia and Toro LA690-4 design concepts, here comes another Lamboghini conceptual study.

The Lamborghini Navarra Concept Study is the work of American Adam Denning, a designer for Lockheed Martin USA, in order to replace the current Murcielago model.

The Lambroghini Navarra Concept model was created as a successor to the Bat. Denning tried to imagine all V12 models from Lamborghini, from the Miura to the Murcielago, and created a car that not only belonged to Lambo DNA, but also was output of these models.

He also was inspired by Michelangelo's La Pieta. The shape of the curves and how they intertwine with each other give the Lamborghini Navarra Concept Study these organic forms. "The way Mary's garments flow down and fold over each other was the main inspiration for the Navarra's overlapping surfaces and organic shapes."

Denning, who has a master in Automotive Design from the Scuola Politecnica di Design in Milan, Italy, says the Lamborghini Navarra Concept Study will be powered by a V12 engine and will use a carbon fiber chassis, along with panels of the same material. The Lamborghini Concept Cars have always been piece of art.

Toyota Introduce Road Side Assistance Program

2010-06-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

All of us have been subjected to car related nightmares, including empty fuel tank or an accident. And they all (many times) happen at the most odd of all times, and at the oddest of places. But you need not get worried if you own Toyota vehicles. Yes, that’s right. Toyota has announced its round-the-clock roadside assistance programme that would offer Toyota owners solutions that are a just a shout away.

All new cars issued from Toyota Kirloksar Motor, with effect from April 1, would be treated with a three years roadside assistance coverage within a radius of 100 kms of the dealership. The company also mentioned that the service is absolutely free of cost. This programme would also provide assistance to the customers against unforeseen events.

This coverage programme would include assistances such as replacing a flat tyre with a spare one, offering fuel in case you have run short of it, fetching spare key from home, and towing your immobilized vehicles to the nearest TKM dealership.

You might be concerned about your own transportation in case of accidents. Toyota has thought about that too. In such cases, they would not only move your immobile vehicle to the TKM dealership, but also give you a free ride home. Talk about customer service. And in case you are injured, you will be assisted to seek immediate medical attention and accommodation, if the need be.

Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, "In line with Toyota’s philosophy of putting the customer first we will now provide road side vehicle service assistance, round the clock, to our customers. In case of unforeseen circumstances if the customer can not bring his vehicle to us, we will go to them.”

The assistance would be centrally managed by 24X7 Assistance Centre, which you could reach by dialing the toll free number.

Maruti Suzuki Will Not Launch Cervo in India

2010-06-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the ultra cheap car segment is heating up as domestic and international car makers are going the extra miles to launch their small and cheap cars. It was speculated that even Maruti Suzuki was planning to bring a new car in the range of Rs.1.5 - 2.5 lakh to compete with the Tata Nano. The car, supposedly, was to be named ‘Cervo’. But a senior official at Maruti Suzuki has denied any such plans.

“We are planning to launch some models but any plans to launch Cervo are not on the drawing board of the company. We’ll make an announcement as and when we roll out the models,” revealed a senior official at MSI, who requested not to be named.

You will find it interesting to know that Suzuki Motor Company has recently brought forth a mini-car named Cervo in Japan. Suzuki Cervo is powered by a 660cc engine which churns out 54 bhp. The top-end variant is powered by a three-cylinder turbocharged 50-horsepower 660cc engine. The Suzuki Cervo complies with the 4-star emission standards of Japan and outperforms the 2010 fuel economy standards by almost 10 per cent.

The same MSI official, however, confirmed the upcoming launch of the new 1.0 litre KB Series Alto. He also revealed that the recently launched BS-IV version of Alto would continue to co-exist with the upcoming Alto.

“Both the cars would be sold as the current one caters to a different segment and the 1.0 Litre Alto would is earmarked for a slightly higher segment. Ergo, the higher spec Alto will be slightly pricier,” said the official.

The KB series engines, which are currently rolled out from the company’s plant at Manesar in Haryana, are featured in like A-Star, Ritz, Swift, Dzire, Estilo and the fourth generation WagonR. The KB series engine comply to the Euro 4- and Euro 5 emission norms and are highly fuel efficient.

“The K-series engines are the most advanced in the car manufacturer’s stable of engines. They will be fitted in all existing models of cars over the next 3- 5 years,” said a senior official of Maruti Suzuki earlier.

Happy Surprise for Toyota - Prius hybrid Gets 80 Confirmed Bookings

2010-06-08T04:17:00.000-07:00

Toyota launched its global best-seller hybrid, Prius in India in January and since then environment-friendly and rich Indians seem to have taken a fancy to this car.

The Toyota Prius hybrid car is priced at Rs 26.5 lakh and Rs 27.86 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), and it is selling well in the Indian market. In fact, the sales have exceeded the expectation of the company. Toyota Kirloskar Motors (TKM) has received 80 confirmed bookings for the hybrid car and has already delivered 45 units since its launch in March 2010. Toyota expected to sell about 12 units per month when it first introduced the car in India.

Toyota Prius has been a global leader and sold about two million units since its launch in 1997. The waiting period for a new Toyota Prius hybrid is about two months. So, who exactly are rushing for this hybrid car? The company reveals that the vehicle is mostly bought by doctors, industrialists and top corporate executives aged between 35 and 50 years.

“Prius hybrid is an internationally acclaimed vehicle and its global image has helped to boost demand for the vehicle in India, where the well traveled, technology enthusiasts and environment-conscious people are now willing to shell out that extra for a vehicle which is not just environment-friendly but also helps them to create a statement,” said Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director, Toyota Kirloskar.

This definitely shows a positive shift in Indian mindset towards hybrid vehicles. Two years back, when Honda Civic hybrid was launched in India, it opened to a cold response from the Indian buyers and the Japanese car manufacturer was forced to withdraw the vehicle within a span of six months. When Honda Civic hybrid was priced at Rs 21.5 lakh in India, it managed to sell just about 60 units in six months. Consequently Honda slashed the prices by Rs 8 lakh and the hybrid sold around 300 units in all.

Jeff Koons To Donate His Le Mans Fee To Charity

2010-06-07T05:50:00.001-07:00

US pop artist Jeff Koons has decided to do something very noble with his money. Well, he has decided to part with his money that he will earn as fee at the upcoming Le Mans 24 Hours road race. Koons designed the BMW M3 GT2 for the Le Mans after months of working on the explosively coloured design of the art car.

Koons, while in Paris to show the BMW vehicle ahead of the Le Mans race, said "it is as life, full of power and energy."

Koons, who is one of the world’s most highly priced living artists, has said that he would donate the fees received from the German car maker to charities that help children.

"If it wins I double the fee," he said, while he declined to reveal the details of the amount.

Koons took the help of BMW engineering and design teams in researching for the explorations of materials and application options for the 17^th BMW Art Car. Koons also worked with actual 3-D computer-aided design models of the BMW M3 GT2 and replicated the applications of the graphic to the car’s surfaces.

Koons’ car number is 17 in a BMW series which dates back to 1975 where the first rolling masterpieces by celebrated artists, Calder, Stella, Lichtenstein, Warhol, and Holzer participated.

We can hope that the go-fast stripes would help the car go faster and driver Andy Priaulx hopes the same and said that he could feel the energy. "It is inspirational," he added.

The American artist himself, however, does not drive a BMW. "I have a large family. I need a very large car," he said.

Michael Perschke Appointed As The New Head Of Audi India

2010-06-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

Audi India has announced the appointment of Michael Perschke as the new Head of the company. This announcement comes in effect from July 1st, 2010. Mr Perschke is a German citizen and holds an international education in business administration and economics in Germany and London.

Perschke has about three years of solid experience working in India as General Manager for Mercedes-Benz. During his 1997 to 2000 tenure, he took care of the network development and regional sales for Mercedes Benz cars. He joined the VW Group in 2004 and took over the task of steering National Sales Companies and developing wholesale strategy.

He started his career at Audi AG in 2008 as in charge of European Service Network Project and improved the quality of service network. He will be replacing Benoit Tiers who, back in 2007, started Audi’s India operations.