Thursday, 29 January 2015
Automotive Updates- 29th January 2014
Wednesday, 28 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 28th January 2015
- The chief minister of Gujarat, Anandiben Patel, today laid
the foundation stone for the Suzuki Group’s Gujarat vehicle manufacturing plant
today. The ceremony was held in the presence of Takeshi Yagi, ambassador of
Japan to India, Rajnikant S Patel, home minister of Gujarat, Osamu Suzuki,
chairman & CEO, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, R C Bhargava, chairman,
Maruti Suzuki India and Kenichi Ayukawa, managing director, Maruti Suzuki
India, at the Hansalpur premises. - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/suzuki-lays-foundation-stone-gujarat-plant-7502#sthash.OmNYMI8p.dpuf
image from the hindu
- Japanese auto major Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) plans to
set up three plants at Hansalpur in Gujarat with a total capacity of 750,000
vehicles. According to R.C. Bhargava, Chairman ofMaruti Suzuki
India (MSIL), the total cost is expected to be Rs 8,500 crore.The
vehicles manufactured at Hansalpur facilities will be supplied exclusively to MSIL and
support its objective of reaching annual sales of two million units in the
medium term.(businesstoday)
- Henrik Fisker is firming up his India plans that
include a joint venture with a home-grown firm and becoming a board member in
an advisory capacity. Fisker told ET that he has visited manufacturing sites of
a few Indian firms and is likely to make an announcement in the next three-four
months. "I like doing business with people in India," said Fisker.
Fisker was a top design executive with BMW, Ford Motor
Company and Aston Martin before he started Fisker Automotive in 2005. In 2013, when Fisker
Automotive was sold to Wangxiang group, he set up HF Design & Technology,
which produces cars, bikes and other transportation products.(ETauto.com)
- According to a report from the Business Standard, the Maruti Y9T (codename
for Maruti’s first LCV) will be called the Super Carry, and a launch is
expected to take place in the April-June quarter. Since Maruti is venturing
into a new territory, and owing to the weak LCV market in India, the Super
Carry would be made and sold in limited numbers initially before going all out.
According to sources, Maruti would make about 80,000 units in its first year,
before scaling up production to 100,000 units per annum.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/maruti-super-carry-launch-in-april-june-165946#ixzz3Q7ltGnJs
- In a move that will aid further localisation, Volkswagen
India has inaugurated a new engine assembly plant at Chakan, Pune. The plant,
within VW's existing premises, was inaugurated by the chief minister of
Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, and will help strengthen Maharashtra’s
reputation as a manufacturing hub. The assembly plant is spread across over
3,000 square metres. This new engine plant will be used to assemble Volkswagen’s
1.5-litre unit and also has a full-fledged engine testing facility. The plant
was built in around 11 months with an investment of Rs 240 crore. - See more
at:
http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/volkswagen-engine-assembly-plant-pune-7497#sthash.FJvNnmMu.dpuf
- Honda Cars India has indeed started manufacturing the
new Jazz at its Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, but the initial units
have not been dispatched to local dealerships. Instead they have been exported
to the South African market, where the launch has also been conducted.Read
more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/new-honda-jazz-launched-south-africa-165952#ixzz3Q7lhJc5n
Tuesday, 27 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 27th January 2015
- Maruti
Suzuki India, the country's largest carmaker, on Tuesday reported a 17.8
per cent increase in net profit at Rs 802.2 crore for the third quarter ended
December 31, 2014.The company had posted a net profit of Rs 681.15 crore in the
same period for the previous financial year, the auto major said in a filing to
the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).(businesstoday)
- Panasonic will start an automotive acid battery factory in
India and is exploring more domestic manufacturing opportunity under the Make
in India campaign. The Indian arm contributes a mere 2% of global revenue, but
the Japanese major is turning eyes on the Indian market, even on enterprise
segment which is a booming for Panasonic globally, said Manish Sharma, managing
director, India and South Asia.Read more at: http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/46028654.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
- In a bid to improve their EV presence, Tata Motors will be
launching an electric version of the Ace, with the arrival expected in the next
fiscal year.The light truck has been well received in the commercial vehicle
sector so far, but is only offered in diesel or CNG variants in India. The Ace
electric will feature an all steel chassis and have a GVW of around 1600 kgs.
According to the Tata Motors global commercial vehicle website, the Ace EV
produces 35 BHP and 14.2 Nm of torque from its axle mounted DC motor, with the
top speed coming in at 40 km/h.(teambhp)
- Maruti Suzuki has launched the Windsong edition of the Swift for
a price of Rs 5.14 lakh. The new model is the revised Swift that was launched
last year but comes with many changes to the exterior and interior. The Swift
in its Windsong limited edition doesn't get a major makeover but cosmetic
changes that differentiate it from the standard version sold. (carwale.com)
- Yamaha is one of the biggest 2 wheeler manufacturers in the
country with more than a 20 percent market share in the bike segment, which is
growing every year. The Japanese manufacturer entered the Indian motorcycle
market quite sometime ago but in the past few years, has been enjoying a growth
rate of about 20-25% every year, which is higher than the industry average. The
Japanese company has developed a strong grip on the market in very less time
and has been successful in not only maintaining but increasing it. The figures
released by Yamaha recently showed that the Japanese manufacturer saw a 23%
increase in sales in the last year. To keep the growth rate moving, Yamaha is
targeting a 30% growth rate in the year 2015.(cartrade.com)
- Tata Motors is currently on a mission for a makeover to
their cars’ taxi image. Thanks to the tremendous success of the Indica and
Indigo in the taxi segment, the Tata badge doesn’t hold its candle well amongst
private car buyers. The Indian automaker has revealed that all its future
passenger cars will not be earmarked or registered as taxi henceforth. In a bid
to become one of the top three car brands in India, Tata Motors promises to
launch two new cars every year for the next five years.Read more at http://www.motorbeam.com/2015/01/cars/tata-motors/tata-motors-wont-register-any-future-car-as-taxi/#gLgfaXoSMGVMRoRx.99
- BorgWarner’s manufacturing plant in Manesar, has been
presented with a 2014 Supplier Quality Excellence Award from GM India. The
award recognizes top-performing suppliers that meet or exceed GM’s stringent
quality criteria for timely delivery, high-quality products, smooth production
processes and maintaining quality systems such as ISO/TS16949. - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/borgwarner-gm-india-2014-supplier-quality-excellence-award-7492#sthash.1zTYVPu6.dpu
Automotive Update - 24th , 25th and 26th January
- Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) has announced the
commencement of work on its Gujarat plant starting January 28. The 4,000 crore
car manufacturing plant will be ready by 2017. On January 28, the
foundation laying function will take place at the 700 acre plant near
Hansalpur, Gujarat. The ceremony will be attended by Gujarat CM Anandi Patel,
finance minister Saurabh Patel and Japan’s ambassador to India, Takeshi
Yagi. (carwale.com)
- Tata Motors, an Indian multinational automotive
manufacturing company who has badly affected from the slowdown in the auto
market for the past few years has come up with a new Variant Tata Bolt.The
price of Tata Bolt hatchback starts from Rs. 5.49 lakhs and goes high to Rs. 6.99
lakhs for diesel and Rs. 4.44 lakhs to Rs. 6.05 lakhs for petrol variants.
Is is reported that before announcing the 1,500 bookings were made for
the new hatchback. It is expected that the new hatchback will help the company
to get back in the game as the other company were managed to come back from the
slowdown in the market in India like Mahindra & Mahindra, Hyundai Motor
India, Maruti Suzuki, Honda Cars India.(carkhabri.com)
- After displaying the PCX 150 cc scooted at the 2014 Auto
Expo, Japanese two-wheeler major Honda has brought it to India for research and
development purposes. This has led to speculation the bike could be launched in
India soon.The PCX 150 is bulky in appearance compared to other scooters in the
Indian market. It has a telescopic front suspension, wide headlamp on the front
panel, a wind deflector above it, a long contoured seat and a floor carved out
for the rider's footrest. The scooter rides on alloy wheels and has an analogue
instrument cluster with a small digital display.(teambhp.com)
- Uniparts Group, a global manufacturer of engineered systems
and solutions for the off highway vehicle market, will invest Rs 100 crore to
set up a facility in Ludhania and expand its Visakhapatnam plant, according to
a top executive of the Noida-headquartered entity. Uniparts, which operates six
manufacturing facilities -five in India and one in the US -plans to expand into
the fast-growing agri business and focus on construction, forestry and mining
sectors to benefit from expected higher government investment in
infrastructure.(ETauto.com)
- In a country where Honda dominates over the scooter market,
another leading automobile manufacturer Mahindra has decided to launch its new
model. The company expects to taste the same success it got after the launch of
its recent product – Gusto, a 110 cc scooter, with this one too. The new model
will be based on Gusto but will have completely new body panels. However, some
features like flip-key, follow-me lamps, seat height adjustment and front
kick-starter will be present in the upcoming model.(cartrade.com)
- Honda launched their Mobilio MPV last year, the vehicle was
made to look attractive enough with good interior room so that it would please
to a big family. Now news has emerged that Honda is preparing a new MPV at a
price cheaper than the Mobilio. Currently Honda’s cheapest car is the Brio
which was launched with the motive to take on other hatchbacks. Meanwhile the
current MPV car at a bargain price is the Datsun GO+ which was launched earlier
this month and immediately got a positive response for its attractive price.Read
more at http://www.motorbeam.com/2015/01/cars/honda-cars/honda-plans-to-launch-low-cost-mpv-below-mobilio/#z6DiShUkrxxSuHug.99
- Ford Happy Schools Programme will now take into its fold
another ten schools in the vicinity of its upcoming plant in Sanand, Gujarat.
Ford’s community outreach initiative in Sanand is committed to provide safe
drinking water to 30 government sponsored kindergartens in 18 villages. Ford
Happy Schools programme has been introduced in twenty schools in Chennai.Read
more at
http://www.rushlane.com/ford-happy-schools-expansion-sanand-12142508.html#tc4O8lb08g2m48dm.99
Saturday, 24 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 23rd January 2015
- Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) has announced the
commencement of work on its Gujarat plant starting January 28. The 4,000 crore
car manufacturing plant will be ready by 2017. On January 28, the
foundation laying function will take place at the 700 acre plant near
Hansalpur, Gujarat. The ceremony will be attended by Gujarat CM Anandi Patel,
finance minister Saurabh Patel and Japan’s ambassador to India, Takeshi
Yagi. (carwale.com)
- TVS Motor Co’s 109.7cc Wego scooter has come out tops in
quality levels, as per the findings of the inaugural J.D. Power 2015 India
Two-Wheeler Initial Quality Study (2WIQS) Study. With 84 problems per 100
vehicles (84 PP100), it not only ranks the highest among executive models but
also across the entire two-wheeler spectrum in India. The Wego races ahead of
its sibling, the Jupiter (115 PP100) and the Yamaha Alpha (117 PP100).
Among motorcycles, the 100cc Hero Splendor iSmart commuter, with its i3S stop-start
technology, ranks highest among economy models with 101 PP100, and the 124.7cc
Hero Super Splendor tops among executive models with 137 PP100. The 153cc
Yamaha Fazer ranks highest among upper executive models (109 PP100) and the
220cc Bajaj Avenger ranks highest among premium models (88 PP100). - See more
at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/tvs-wego-tops-jd-powers-2015-initial-quality-study-7477#sthash.KS833mjJ.dpuf
- Tata Motors announced during the launch that 1,500 bookings
were received for the Bolt before price was revealed, signalling that the
hatchback is going to fuel the company’s growth big time. On the launch day,
Tata Motors’ shares outpaced the market. The company closed the day at 2.7 percent
higher share price (Rs. 566.30), whereas the market gained only 0.4 percent.(rushlane.com)
- Mahindra & Mahindra today inked a pact with Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC)
to offerskill development training program in the auto sector.The company signed
a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ASDC, under which the partners will
deploy their core competencies to offer skill development training program, to
generate employment in the automotive sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said in
a statement.(ETauto.com)
- Isuzu Motors India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Isuzu
Motors, Japan, one of the world’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturers and
a leader in pick-up trucks, today inaugurated a new dealership in Ahmedabad,
marking its entry into Gujarat. The new dealership – Torque ISUZU, is
conveniently located at the Ground Floor, Shree Panchdhara Complex, Near Hotel
Grand Bhagwati, Sarkhej Gandhinagar Highway, Bodakdev, Ahmedabad, to offer
best-in-class sales and service for Isuzu customers.(motoroid.com)
- TVS Srichakra Ltd, one of the largest manufacturers and
exporters of two- and three- wheeler tyres, is looking to record double-digit
growth in the current financial year and cross the Rs 1,900 crore turnover
mark. The company, which manufactures nearly two million tyres a month,
posted revenues of Rs 1,700 crore revenue in 2013-14 on the back of good growth
in the Indian two- wheeler and aftermarket segment. Unveiling the company’s new
logo in Chennai today, P Vijayaraghavan, director, TVS Srichakra, said: “TVS
Tyres is poised for bigger growth as the two-wheeler OEM segments is witnessing
healthy double-digit growth in India. Being the largest suppliers to OEMs, we
are doing extremely well and similarly our aftermarket share
has achieved growth this year.“ - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/tvs-tyres-targets-rs-crore-turnover-2017-plans-motorcycle-radials-7481#sthash.Atxn8ECU.dpuf
- Honda Motor Co has chosen a competitor of embattled Takata
Corp to supply air bags for the next North American version of its Accord
sedan, the automaker's best-selling vehicle, two people with knowledge of the
decision said.In the first major defection by a carmaker since Takata's safety
crisis began, Honda, Takata's largest customer, will use air bags made by
Toyoda Gosei for the all-new Accord, scheduled to go on sale in August 2017,
the people told. Read more at:
Maruti Suzuki bags NDTV-PCRA Green Award
Maruti Suzuki bags NDTV-PCRA Green Award for Fuel Efficiency Company bags four titles ast at NDTV Car & Bike Awards 2015 Entry hatchback of the year: Maruti Suzuki Celerio Compact sedan of the Year: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Car N Bike Hall of Fame Award: for Maruti SuzukiCar market leader Maruti Suzuki’s popular cars Celerio and Ciaz bagged the award for the Entry Hatch back of the Year and Compact Sedan of the Year at the NDTV Car & Bike Awards 2015. The Company also bagged the special Car N Bike Hall of Fame honour. It is bestowed on best-performing and consistent brands who have won the most awards over a ten year period.![]() | |
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Thursday, 22 January 2015
The All-New Sporty Hatchback BOLT from Tata Motors, Launched Nationally
Key Features:
- First time ever – MULTI DRIVE: Sport, Eco, City
- All new REVOTRON 1.2 Turbocharged MPFi Petrol engine
- Generation next Safety with 9th gen ABS by BoschTM, Corner Stability Control (CSC) and Dual Airbags
- Segment superior space and comfort
- ConnectNext touchscreen infotainment by HARMANTM
Tata Motors today announced the commercial launch of its much-awaited sporty hatchback, the all-new Bolt. Manufactured at the Pimpri plant in Pune, Bolt is the latest car from the company, under its Horizonext umbrella and offers many segment-defining features for Design, Drivability and Connectivity.
The Bolt is launched at a starting price of INR. 4.65 Lakhs, ex-showroom, Delhi, for the Revotron (petrol) 1.2T and starts at INR. 5.75 Lakhs, ex-showroom, Delhi, for the diesel variant. The car will be available for sale, across the country in over 450 Tata Motors sales outlets from today.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Mayank Pareek, President Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, said, “With the aim to deliver the best to our customers, we at Tata Motors are delighted to launch the much-awaited Bolt, a sporty hatchback, We expect Bolt to strengthen our presence in the hatchback market, one of the most popular segments for the Indian customers. A stylish car with many segment first features, the Bolt offers global design and standards that will equally bring in new first time buyers as well as appeal to existing auto users looking for a new and exciting product in this segment. Designed and engineered by our teams across India, UK and Italy. It is the next leap under our Horizonext strategy and represents the new DNA of our passenger vehicles business, with the commitment to provide the best vehicles and experiences to excite our customers.”
The word BOLT signifies speed, representing an attitude of winning and staying ahead. This attitude is embodied in the all-new BOLT in all aspects of design, drive and seamless connectivity. It clearly exemplifies the HORIZONEXT themes of Intense Product Focus, World-class Manufacturing Quality, Enriched Purchase Experience and Consistent Quality of Service for its passenger vehicle business
With the commercial launch of the Bolt, Tata Motors also announced the launch of an exciting new service programme for the car offering warranty of 3 years or 1 lakhs Kms (whichever is earlier) as well as a free 24X7 Roadside Assistance service for 3 years. Customers will also receive first 3 services free (up to 30,000 kms or 2 years, whichever is earlier). These services will help the company offer high reliability, reduced cost of ownership and great resale value for the Bolt to its customers.
DESIGNEXT:
The bold new stance and the well sculpted body of the Bolt puts forth the new Tata Motors design semantics and it is a design culmination of best ideas from the three Tata Motors design studios – Pune (India), Coventry (UK), and Turin (Italy). The Bolt conveys a sense of power and agility with the power bulge on its bonnet and its forward pouncing stance. Flowing lines create the illusion of movement even when the car is standing still. The exterior language amplifies the feeling of a larger hatchback. The silhouette reveals smooth, flowing lines finishing in a flat edge of the spoiler. While the rear-spoiler aids in aerodynamics, the effect of the wraparound rear windows by darkened C-pillar creates a distinctive floating roof design and provides an extra sporty touch to this premium hatch. The flame shaped rear tail lamps and bumper give an eye catchy proportion and helps in creating a sporty stance.
The new Tata signature grill and the Humanity Line visually flow into the smoked multi-chamber headlamps, creating a unique design signature for the brand. A wide air intake and the fog lamp Bezels give a sporty and confident look to the car. All the elements of the car, combined with a well sculpted body, add to its dynamic and athletic stance.
Riding on Tata Motors’ new design DNA, a greater attention to detail towards the vehicle’s interiors is another defining factor that makes the Bolt the defining car in its segment. Interiors come with premium Java black dashboard. The center console is the main focal element for the car, loaded with the best-in-class experience of infotainment and HVAC. Key design elements like the, new generation Tata signature 3-spoke steering wheel with ergonomic groove, driver-centric cockpit, precisely detailed air vents and sculpturally designed central console provide the car with a new and younger look that will undoubtedly appeal to the young buyers.
To cater the growing needs of consumers for space, Bolt continues to offer Tata Motors’ strength of superior space and comfort. The front shoulder room of Bolt is spacious by 36 mm while rear is spacious by 41 mm, compared to most popular cars in the segment.
Available in a five exciting colours - Venetian Red, Pristine White, Platinum Silver, Sky Grey, Dune Beige - the Bolt will be offered in four trims -- XE, XM, XMS and XT.
DRIVENEXT:
The Bolt comes with segment-first Drivenext features which makes it the best-in-segment for its driving dynamics. It will be available in both petrol and diesel variants. In the petrol, Bolt will be the segment’s first hatch to be powered by India’s first 1.2L Turbocharged Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFi) Petrol Engine, REVOTRON 1.2T, with best-in-class maximum power of 90PS @ 5000 RPM and peak torque of 140 Nm @ 1500-4000 RPM. It has been developed in conjunction with global consultancies and suppliers to deliver world-class performance in terms of power, torque and efficiency. It has undergone over 300,000 hours of rigorous developmental and research testing.
The diesel variant comes with a powerful Quadrajet 1.3L engine, delivering power of 75PS @ 4000 RPM and torque of 190 Nm from 1750 RPM to 3000 RPM for a peppy drive with effortless delivery of power. Both petrol and diesel powertrains are BS-IV compliant and are capable of meeting future norms.
Multi-Drive Innovation:
Multi-Drive modes is one of the key innovations in India, introduced by Tata Motors with the Revotron 1.2T engine in the Bolt. The Revotron 1.2T engine offers the optimum blend of performance, refinement and fuel economy. The unique first-in-segment ‘Multi-Drive’ technology enables switching between SPORT, ECO and CITY mode, along with a superior throttle response.
In the SPORT mode, the Revotron 1.2T engine delivers quick acceleration and throttle response for achieving peak torque and sheer performance. The ECO mode, optimizes engine output for maximum efficiency, suitable for cruising on long intercity drives. The CITY mode, what the car runs in by default, balances between performance and economy, suitable for daily commute.
The Multi-Drive, coupled with a superior throttle response, advanced catalytic converter to reduced toxic emissions and Smart ECU (Electronic Control Unit) with various innovative strategies, ensure a superlative performance on Indian roads.
Fuel efficiency:
As per the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) certification, the Revotron 1.2T delivers 17.57 km/litre and the Diesel delivers 22.95 km/litre, fuel efficiency under test conditions.
As per the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) certification, the Revotron 1.2T delivers 17.57 km/litre and the Diesel delivers 22.95 km/litre, fuel efficiency under test conditions.
Driving Dynamics in Bolt
- A silent, quieter cabin will ensure a pleasant and unmatched drive experience.
- Newly designed AC vent geometry ensures faster and uniform cooling till rear occupants
- Speed sensitive ePAS (Electronic Power Assisted System), with ‘Active Return’ function.
- The most advanced, 9th generation ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) from Bosch for improved braking efficiency, and with yet another segment-first, the Corner Stability Control feature, add to the safety feature of the
- A silent, quieter cabin will ensure a pleasant and unmatched drive experience.
- Newly designed AC vent geometry ensures faster and uniform cooling till rear occupants
- Speed sensitive ePAS (Electronic Power Assisted System), with ‘Active Return’ function.
- The most advanced, 9th generation ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) from Bosch for improved braking efficiency, and with yet another segment-first, the Corner Stability Control feature, add to the safety feature of the
- vehicle.
- The dual-path suspension coupled with a zero pivot sub-frame ensures smooth and comfortable ride.
- The improved suspension provides effective isolation from road inputs without compromising on the body control, translating into a class-leading balance between ride and handling.
In the SPORT mode, the Revotron 1.2T engine delivers quick acceleration and throttle response for achieving peak torque and sheer performance. The ECO mode, optimizes engine output for maximum efficiency, suitable for cruising on long intercity drives. The CITY mode, what the car runs in by default, balances between performance and economy, suitable for daily commute.
The Multi-Drive, coupled with a superior throttle response, advanced catalytic converter to reduced toxic emissions and Smart ECU (Electronic Control Unit) with various innovative strategies, ensure a superlative performance on Indian roads.
Fuel efficiency:
As per the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) certification, the Revotron 1.2T delivers 17.57 km/litre and the Diesel delivers 22.95 km/litre, fuel efficiency under test conditions.
As per the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) certification, the Revotron 1.2T delivers 17.57 km/litre and the Diesel delivers 22.95 km/litre, fuel efficiency under test conditions.
Driving Dynamics in Bolt
CONNECTNEXT:
With ConnectNext, the company will deliver a new level of driving and ownership experience as users can not only enjoy superior quality of entertainment from their own smart device and control the deliverance of all ergonomics, acoustics and climatic needs, but also get access to outside world seamlessly, at the touch of a key.
Tata Motors has continued its association with HARMAN for developing the first-in-segment touchscreen infotainment and has also worked with MapMyIndia to develop next generation smart phone based navigation, which provides location based services.
The car is enabled with touchscreen infotainment supporting rich multimedia experience, video play-back, smart phone based navigation, advanced Bluetooth technology, smart voice recognition, advanced smartphone integration, incoming SMS notification and read-outs. The system has in-built HVAC controls, which is a first-in-class experience for all consumers.
The Bolt will ensure car users to seamlessly integrate their professional and personal lives into their commute and travel, while bringing in an unparalleled infotainment experience.
Tata Motors has upgraded close to 200 dealerships across the country to deliver to its customers the desired world class ambience, purchase experience and consistent high-quality after-sales service. The company is focusing on enhanced customer engagement levels at the dealerships through technology-enabled outlets, providing all-encompassing services at one point - sales, service and spare parts.
These upgraded dealerships and service centers with the new Tata Motors retail identity will take customer experience to the next level. They will comprise of adequate number of trained manpower across all profiles for rendering service to the Bolt customers. The company has added over 1200 new sales force for the Bolt and a special customer advisory group called the Bolt Force has been formulated, comprising of 1000 staff, exclusively to assist the Bolt customers. The entire sales staff team comprising of 4000 employees have undergone extensive training at the central and regional training centres across the country to provide customers with an enriching experience.
As part of the launch promotions, Tata Motors has rolled out its on-ground experiential activation programme called, Bolt Arena. The Bolt Arena will cover 133 locations, across India by January 28th, 2015. The Arena gives an opportunity to the customers to know the brand better and also engage in various activities and interactive games.
To book online, customers can also visit: http://bookonline.tatamotors.com/
Wednesday, 21 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 21st January 2015
- Tata Motors Ltd, India’s largest automobile maker, will
start selling trucks in Malaysia, Vietnam and Australia as part of a plan to
strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, a company official said on
Tuesday. The company’s subsidiary in Thailand will serve as a base to sell to
the adjoining markets, which will also help the maker of the Ace and Xenon
brands of vehicles to utilize its Thai facility optimally. “Made in Thailand
for pickups is a fairly well acceptable name,” said Ravindra Pisharody,
executive director (commercial vehicles), on the sidelines of a press meet to
announce season two of the Prima Truck Racing Championship in Mumbai. Thailand
is among the largest manufacturing bases for pickup trucks.Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Industry/ttICxBKRoqsYR8reQyt4tL/Tata-Motors-to-expand-AsiaPacific-presence.html?utm_source=copy
- Toyota Motor took the unusual step of projecting a drop in
annual vehicle sales on Wednesday in a move that could see Volkswagen steal the
industry crown this year as demand slumps in Japan, Indonesia and other key
markets. The forecast underscores Chief Executive Akio Toyoda's resolve to
steer the company through measured, profitable growth rather than chase volumes
after getting burned by a capacity glut in the wake of the 2008 global
financial crisis.Toyota said on Wednesday it expects 2015 global vehicle sales,
including those of subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co and Hino Motors, to slip 1
per cent to 10.15 million vehicles.(businesstoday)
- Pawan Goenka, Mahindra & Mahindra Executive Director for
Automotive and Farm equipment sectors, recently stated that the group wants to
enter the US market but not with Mahindra SUVs. The Indian automaker planned
foray into the US market with Scorpio pick-up in 2009, but was unable to set
foot due to repeated delays and legal problems with its former distributor
Global Vehicles.Now the group is keen on entering the SUV market there with its
South Korean arm SsangYong. Recently launched (in South Korea) SsangYong
Tivoli compact crossover and new Rexton SUV are the two artilleries
Mahindra is planning on deploying on US soil soon. Tivoli will cater to
B-segemnt and Rexton to D-segment.Read more at
http://www.rushlane.com/mahindra-ssangyong-tivoli-rexton-us-launch-12142314.html#MmXByzoISIgO4KHc.99
- In an exclusive tie-up with Shriram Automall India (SAMIL), two-wheeler major
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has decided to increase its
penetration of the pre-owned two-wheeler market in India. The market of
second-hand two-wheelers in the country is currently pegged at 50 percent of
new two-wheeler sales. In December 2014, new two-wheelers accounted for
sales of over 12 lakh units in the domestic market which translates into
600,000 pre-owned two-wheelers a month. Only 10-15 percent of this number falls
into the organised sector, with the balance constituting unorganised sales. -
See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/hmsi-ties-shriram-automall-sell-pre-owned-wheelers-7449#sthash.ODEhyppg.dpuf
- Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd is targeting a 30 percent
increase in sales in their motorcycles and scooters for the 2015 calendar year
in India. The company closed sales at 600,000 units in India in 2014 and now
aim to set a new sales benchmark of 850,000 units in 2015.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/yamaha-30-percent-growth-in-india-in-2015-165331#ixzz3PSYsY97h
- VECV, the 50-50 joint venture between Eicher Motors and the Volvo Group launched
the Pro 6000 Series in India yesterday. The Pro 6000 range in India
comprises of the 6031 and 6025 haulage trucks and the 6025T tipper
truck. Going forth, the brand plans to launch the Pro 8000 Series in India
next. Vinod Aggarwal, Chief Executive Officer, VE Commercial Vehicles Limited,
said that VECV will bring in the Pro 8000 Series of trucks this year, but
simultaneously, it will also expand the Pro 6000 Series range. He however did
not mention the exact models that would launch.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/eicher-pro-8000-series-launch-india-this-year-165323#ixzz3PSZ1V53S
- Tata Motors, the homegrown automaker will launch
the much-awaited Bolt hatchback in the Indian car market tomorrow i.e. January
22, 2015. It will be the second big launch from the homegrown maker under its
HORIZONEXT umbrella. It is based on the thoroughly modified X1 platform and
shares its styling with the Zest compact sedan. Bookings for the hatchback have
already commenced at a token amount of Rs. 11,000.(carwale.com)
Mahindra Two Wheelers and Peugeot Motocycles complete strategic partnership
Mahindra Two Wheelers Ltd. (MTWL), part of the USD 16.5 billion Mahindra Group and Peugeot Motocycles (PMTC), part of the Euro 54 billion PSA Group based in France announced today that they have completed the necessary formalities for MTWL’s 51% acquisition in PMTC.
PMTC (a.k.a. Peugeot Scooters), a key player in urban mobility in Europe for 116 years, is the oldest motorized two-wheeler manufacturer in the world. Peugeot Scooters offers one of the most comprehensive range of scooters and mopeds, from 50cc to 400cc, including the successful three wheeled scooter – Metropolis - in the European market. This project was announced on October 7, 2014.
The acquisition, which resulted in the satisfaction of all regulatory, legal and financial conditions of the agreement, was completed smoothly by both parties within a very short span of time. As part of the employee dialogue process and Anti-trust law, the Works Council consultation process has also been successfully completed.
Speaking on the completion of the acquisition, Dr. Pawan Goenka, Executive Director, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “At Mahindra, we are committed to the long term growth of Peugeot Motocycles and are confident that this relationship would be one of mutual respect, trust and learning. This partnership would enable both MTWL and PMTC to speed up their international expansion by driving synergies and leveraging respective strengths. It is our intention to work closely to enable a win-win for both partners".
Under the terms of the agreement, MTWL has infused Euro 15 million into PMTC to finance projects implemented through the strategic partnership and has also bought shares held by PSA which would allow MTWL to take a 51% stake in PMTC.
The new board of PMTC has been constituted and would include the following members:MTWLDr. Pawan Goenka – Director MTWL & Executive Director, M&M Ltd.Mr. V.S.Parthasarathy – Director MTWL, Chief Financial Officer, Group CIO, M&M Ltd.Mr.Rajesh Jejurikar – Director MTWL, Chief Executive-Farm Equipment & Two Wheeler Division, M&M Ltd.PSAMr. Maxime Picat - Chief Executive Officer, Peugeot BrandMr. Emmanuel Delay – Executive Vice President, Operational Director, India-Pacific-
See more at: http://www.mahindra.com/News/Press-Releases/1421756052#sthash.Jl1MAB89.dpuf
- Image from the hindu
Tuesday, 20 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 20th January 2015
- Mahindra Two Wheelers Ltd. (MTWL) has announced that it has
completed the necessary formalities to acquire 51% stake in Peugeot
Motocycles (PMTC). The acquisition, which resulted in the satisfaction of
all regulatory, legal and financial conditions of the agreement, was completed
smoothly by both parties within a very short span of time. As part of the
employee dialogue process and Anti-trust law, the Works Council consultation process
has also been successfully completed. Under the terms of the agreement,
MTWL has infused Euro 15 million into PMTC to finance projects
implemented through the strategic partnership.(motorids.com)
- India Ratings and Research on Monday revised its outlook on
the domestic automobile industry to “stable” from “stable to negative” for
fiscal 2016. The revision is based on early signs of a recovery in the second
half of fiscal 2015 and the bottoming out of the sales decline, the Fitch Group
firm said in a statement. However, a significant spike in domestic volume may
not be expected in FY16. The passenger vehicle (PV) segment is likely to post a
year on-year volume growth of 2-5% in fiscal 2016 supported by a 3-5% growth in
cars and a 4-7% growth in the utility vehicle segment. The commercial vehicle
(CV) segment’s volume in FY16, it said, will be driven by medium and heavy
commercial vehicles (MHCVs), with the volume of light commercial vehicles
(LCVs) growing marginally.Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Industry/PsTWizo0F0mggcifGBkHRM/India-Ratings-revises-outlook-on-domestic-auto-sector.html?utm_source=copy
- VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV), the 50-50 joint
venture between the Volvo Group and Eicher Motors Limited, launched the Eicher
Pro 6000 Series of heavy duty trucks in India today. Developed in collaboration
with the Volvo Group, the company launched the Eicher Pro 6031 and 6025 haulage
trucks and the 6025T tipper.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/eicher-pro-6000-series-launched-in-india-165159#ixzz3PMeTLUbt
image from lorry guru
- Varroc Engineering, the flagship company of the Rs 8,000 crore Varroc Group,
has joined hands with Scorpion Automotive of the UK to design and develop
security solutions for primarily two-wheeler markets in India and the world.
The partnership, which is a technical collaboration between the two companies,
will combine Scorpion’s technical capabilities with Varroc’s manufacturing
competence to cater to the demand for vehicle security solutions globally. As
per company officials, the product portfolio will also be extended to the
four-wheeler and the commercial vehicle segments later. - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/varroc-partners-uk-scorpion-automotive-2w-security-systems-7432#sthash.eQj5flju.dpuf
- Madras Rubber Factory (MRF),
India's largest tyre manufacturer is in advance discussion with BK Birla
flagship Kesoram Industries to acquire its main tyre unit out of the two of
Birla Tyres for a value that's far higher than the market capitalization of the
entire diversified Birla conglomerate, said multiple sources involved. Read more
at:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/45946914.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
- By the end of this year, Datsun’s portfolio in India will
include the Go, Go+ and the small car based on the Redi-Go concept.
However, Nissan, which expects over 50 percent of its sales to come from
Datsun, knows that it has to further bolster the low-cost brand’s
representation, especially in segments that are growing rapidly. Insiders have
told Indian Autos Blog that a compact SUV/crossover will be a part of Datsun’s
offering in the mid-term. A person, privy to developments, put a timeline to
the launch of the Datsun compact SUV, saying that it will come after parent
Nissan launches its compact SUV in India within a couple of years.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/datsun-compact-suv-for-india-165171#ixzz3PMeIIsBd
- If a recent report from Economic Times is to be believed,
owners of certain Renault car models in India would need to make a trip
to the workshop soon as the French automaker plans to recall 646 cars to fix
faulty airbags.According to the report, the recall involves the Pulse hatchback
and diesel-powered Scala sedan manufactured between September 2011 and
July 2012. Faulty airbags in the aforementioned models could potentially affect
occupants’ safety.(carwale.com)
- Hinduja flagship firm Ashok Leyland plans to launch a fully electric bus
'Versa' in the country by 2017.The 36-seater bus, which is being showcased at
the 4th Bus and Special Vehicle Show here, can go 90 miles in one charge and is
a zero emissions vehicle."Depending upon the regulations, we expect to
launch this vehicle in the country in the next two years," Ashok Leyland
Vice President, Buses, T Venkataraman told PTI in Greater Noida .The vehicle
comes as a completely built unit (CBU) from the company's UK based arm Optare.(businesstoday)
Monday, 19 January 2015
Automotive Updates - 19th January 2015
- Tata Motors is rumoured to be working on a new hatchback to
take on India's best-selling car, the Maruti Suzuki Alto. The new car,
codenamed Pelican, is being developed on the X302 platform, which is an
upgraded version of the Nano platform.The Pelican will be slightly larger than
the Nano and will be positioned between it and the upcoming Kite hatchback,
which is expected to replace the ageing Indica. It is expected to be powered by
two engines - a 1.0-litre petrol and an 800 cc diesel. The diesel could be the
cheapest diesel car on sale in India and is also likely to be exported.(team
bhp)

- Auto components makerLuman Industries today formed a 50:50 joint venture
with Germany's Hengst SE & Co to manufacture filtration modules
for passenger and commercial vehicles. The JV firm, Hengst Luman India,
would manufacture the filter modules at its manufacturing facility in the
Capital. "The expected investment in this JV for the next five years
would be around Rs 300 crore," Luman Industries Director JS Sethi told reporters here. (ETauto.com)
- The Land Rover Discovery Sport will be launched in India in
August 2015, and the company will assemble the SUV by way of CKD (Completely
Knocked Down) kits at its plant in Pune, reports Autocar India. For the Indian
market, the Discovery Sport will be sold with the 2.2-liter four-cylinder
diesel engine only, and the 2.0-liter petrol will not be offered.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/land-rover-discovery-sport-indian-assembly-from-august-165048#ixzz3PI2Qao9A
- Bajaj Auto is aiming to regain its lost share in the
Indian two-wheeler market with six product launches in the next six months that
will include a new 100 cc bike besides a 400 cc model under its flagship brand
Pulsar.The company that had once looked away from the high volume 100 cc
segment is looking to create a new space in the mass market as it eyes an
overall share of more than 20 per cent in the domestic market by March this
year. (ETauto.com)
- Japanese auto major Nissan will miss its target of achieving
10 per cent market share in India by 2016 but may advance the launch of a third
vehicle from its Datsun brand in the country to propel growth.The company that
last week launched a compact multi- purpose vehicle Go+ to add to the Go small
car will expand its network in small towns to boost sales of its Datsun brand
of vehicles.(financial express)
- For the second consecutive year Volvo Trucks has received
Europe’s prestigious Quality Innovation of the Year Award. Volvo Trucks
received the award for its new transmission, I-Shift Dual Clutch, whose main
benefit is that it makes the driver’s job simpler and safer. “I-Shift Dual
Clutch represents a new-for-the-industry product innovation with strong
improvements in parameters that influence drivers and transport companies as
well as cargo owners and society in general,” said Matti Kaulio, Associate
Professor Industrial Economics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm
and representative of the Swedish SIQ (Swedish Institute for Quality).
Professor Kaulio sits on the panel of experts that selected this year’s award-winner.
- See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-international/volvo-trucks-bags-quality-innovation-award-shift-dual-clutch-7422#sthash.632V5zbG.dpuf
- Honda recently introduced a new variant of the Amaze that
comes with a new AVN system and a full black dashboard. Now, a body-kit variant
of the Amaze has been spied and we think Honda might launch it as the Amaze RS,
just like the Mobilio RS which too gets a body kit.The Honda Amaze RS will come with cosmetic additions like
front and rear bumper skirtings, side skirting, muffler tip, lip spoiler and
protective door mouldings with a chrome strip. These additions make the Amaze
look much better than what it looks without these add-ons. However, it is
unclear whether the Amaze RS will be a limited edition variant or will it be
available for sale for a long time.Read more at
http://www.motorbeam.com/2015/01/cars/honda-amaze/honda-to-launch-amaze-rs-variant-in-india/#KYQtAJOpUBmUcUJv.99
Automotive Updates -16th , 17th and 18th January 2015
- The Indian bus market which hasn’t seen improvements in overall sales, will witness a growth of 10-12 per cent in the next financial year, SIAM’s Deputy Director General, Sugato Sen, was quoted saying so by PTI.At the ongoing Bus & Special Vehicle Show organized in the NCR, the above mentioned statement was made. The event, which runs from January 15 to January 17 will have a number of commercial vehicle exhibits, while some new launches have been made at the show too.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/siam-says-bus-sales-could-grow-by-up-to-12-per-cent-in-2015-16-164717#ixzz3PG5D0Crn
- Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) today announced the launch of the first electric vehicle pilot project under the government of India’s ambitious National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP). As part of the project, four battery-powered Maxximo Electric Vans were handed over to the Agra Development Authority, which will be used along the clean, green Taj Zero Emission Corridor, to help reduce vehicular emissions. The electric vehicle pilot project was flagged off by Rajan Katoch, secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, government of India, in the presence of Chetan Maini, CEO, Mahindra Reva. The vehicles were handed over to the Agra Development Authority in the presence of other senior government dignitaries. - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/mahindra-oem-plug-national-electric-mobility-mission-plan-7400#sthash.dQsyrgZq.dpuf
- After the success of their Zest sedan, Tata Motors seems to be on the right path and are now moving back to their roots. It is no secret that the auto giant is developing two brand new 5 & 7-seater SUVs for the global market with inputs from Jaguar Land Rover. However, they haven’t forgotten their old friends at Fiat and according to a report, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Tata are working together to locally develop a 2.0-litre Multijet diesel engine which will power the two new upcoming Tata SUVs and will also find its way in Fiat Chrysler’s new Compact SUV, to be marketed under the Jeep brand. All three vehicles are slated to hit the market around 2017. (motoroid.com)
- On the completion of one year of the TVS Jupiter recently on the Indian market, the company has launched a special edition, which will be made available in limited numbers. The commemorative edition will be available in a special Stallion Brown color with beige panels and would sport a round ‘limited edition’ badge on the front panel.Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2015/01/tvs-jupiter-special-edition-164940#ixzz3PG4sDo1L
- Nissan India on Friday said it is in the process of setting up smaller dealerships across the country, particularly in tier II and III cities, to create awareness and promote the Datsun brand .Guillaume Sicard, the president of Nissan India Operations, who was here to launch Datsun Go+ — a compact family wagon and an MPV — said: “Unlike SA, Russia and Indonesia, where it got tremendous response, the brand in India lacks awareness. Only one in 10 people is aware of the Datsun brand. We need to promote the brand in a big way.”(financialexpress)
- Royal Enfield has announced the appointment of Rudratej ‘Rudy’ Singh as president, Royal Enfield. He will be reporting to Siddhartha Lal, managing director and CEO, Eicher Motors, and will be based out of the company’s corporate office in Gurgaon. Announcing the appointment, Siddhartha Lal said, “Rudy joins Royal Enfield after spearheading global brands and businesses for almost two decades across emerging and developed markets. - See more at: http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/royal-enfield-appoints-rudratej-singh-president-7409#sthash.PBUOiwBi.dpuf
- Buoyed by the excellent response for Zest compact sedan, Tata Motors is now aiming to launch a series of all-new cars in the country under its HORIZONEXT umbrella. The company will launch the Bolt hatchback on January 20, 2015, and is preparing a couple of all new compact cars. Codenamed as Kite, the new project comprises of two cars including a compact hatchback and the compact sedan. The Kite hatchback will be launched this year, while the entry level sedan launch likely by year end or early next year. Our sourced revealed that the hatchback is likely to be launched in the second quarter of this year, and will replace the Indica. It is based on the modified Indica platform, and the vehicle has already been spotted several times on Indian roads.(cartrade.com)
- You read it first on MotorBeam. Hero stopped production of the new Karizmas in November 2014, reason being lack of demand for the motorcycle. The company dispatched just 7 units of the motorcycle to dealers in December as dealerships are already sitting on a huge pile of Karizma inventory, not being able to sell them due to lack of demand. Thus the piling inventory made Hero stop production of its flagship motorcycle temporarily. Once dealers exhaust the current stock of the Karizma, production will commence.Read more at http://www.motorbeam.com/2015/01/bikes/hero-karizma/hero-stops-karizma-production-in-november-due-to-poor-sales/#I9y03e5tBBjUJMJI.99
- Honda's much-awaited premium hatchback, the Jazz, will soon be launched in India. The spy-shots of the vehicle seem to be from the manufacturer's new facility in Rajasthan, hinting that the company has started production of the next-generation Jazz hatchback for India.The Japanese automaker seems to have analysed the demand for the product in India and is planning to create a ready supply of stock before they launch the car for the Indian market. Speculations are that more than 600 cars have already been produced and the manufacturer aims to produce at least 5,000 cars before they put the car on sale in our country.(cartrade.com)
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