Chevrolet Announces $1 Billion Investment in India

• Investment part of the brand’s $5 billion total commitment to global growth markets, including India
• Growth expected to bring approximately 12,000 new jobs to GM India and its suppliers
• 10 new locally produced Chevrolet vehicles to be rolled-out in next 5 years beginning with Trailblazer in October 2015
• Talegaon’s manufacturing base to be strengthened and become export hub; cease production at Halol facility in 2H 2016
• Chevrolet aims to double its market share in India by 2020

 As part of Chevrolet’s global growth strategy to ensure long-term profitable growth in the markets where we operate, the company today confirmed that it will make US $1 billion (INR 6,400 crores) in new investment in India. The announcement was made in Delhi during GM CEO Mary Barra’s second visit to the country in 12 months.

Barra, GM Executive Vice President and GM International President Stefan Jacoby and GM India President and Managing Director Arvind Saxena met with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi today to brief him on Chevrolet’s plans.

Chevrolet announced yesterday that it is making a US $5 billion investment to strengthen its business in global growth markets through the development of an all-new vehicle family that will meet the rapidly changing demands of customers in Brazil, China, Mexico and India. The company has invested US $1 billion in India since 1996.

“Chevrolet is committed to India for the long term,” said Barra. “We are delivering on our promise and doubling our investment in India. This will allow us to provide our Indian customers the great vehicles they want and the world-class customer experience they deserve. It will also support the government’s Make in India program.”

The new investment is expected to create approximately 12,000 new jobs for GM India and its suppliers. Besides growing the use of the domestic supply base to support increased product localization, Chevrolet will also grow its domestic dealer network to support the greater availability of vehicles and service for consumers nationwide.

The majority of the new investment will support the strengthening of Chevrolet’s Talegaon manufacturing base in the state of Maharashtra. It will enable the facility to localize, industrialize and optimize its footprint to accommodate additional products for the domestic and export markets.

“The new global vehicle family we just announced will have several different body styles designed to meet the expectations of the Indian consumer,” said Jacoby.  “The vehicles will be manufactured and sold in India and feature striking styling that has never been seen here before. They will also be exported worldwide. With this investment, our aim is to double our market share in India by 2020.”

There are no plans to export the vehicles to mature markets such as the United States. 

GM India is expected to roll out 10 new locally produced Chevrolet models within the space of five years. They include the Trailblazer SUV, which will go on sale in October of this year, and the Spin MPV, which will reach the market in early 2017.

Talegaon, which currently has a production capacity of 130,000 vehicles, will increase its base capacity to 220,000 vehicles by 2025.  It will also become a global export hub for GM, with more than 30 percent of its annual production planned for markets outside India.

To rationalize its domestic manufacturing operations, Chevrolet will cease production at its Halol facility in the state of Gujarat by the second half of 2016.

“Consolidating our manufacturing in a single location in India will support the long-term sustainability of our business in a challenging emerging market,” said Saxena. “This is not a decision that we are making lightly and we are committed to treating those impacted respectfully,” said Saxena.

Chevrolet has communicated directly with employees at the Halol facility and will have more information to share at a later date.

GM was established in India in 1996 in Halol.  Its Talegaon facility was established in 2008. GM also operates the GM Technical Center-India in Bangalore, which was established in 2003.  India offers a broad lineup of locally built Chevrolet products. In 2014, it sold 56,700 vehicles, giving it market share of 1.8 percent.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 115 countries and selling around 4.8 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. The Chevrolet portfolio in India includes the Chevrolet Beat, Captiva, Cruze, Enjoy, Sail, Sail Hatchback, Spark and Tavera.  More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.co.in

Mahindras all new SUV named TUV300

• Design based on the tough & stylish Mahindra DNA & inspired by a battle tank
• Powered by advanced, hi-tech mHawK engine

 Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a part of the US $16.9 billion Mahindra Group, today named its much awaited SUV with project code U301, as Mahindra TUV300.  Pronounced as TUV, 3 double ‘Oh’, the ‘T’ in TUV300 stands for ‘TOUGH’ to highlight the tough & stylish SUV design. The numeric ‘300’ represents the series name.

The design of the tough and stylish Mahindra TUV300 has been inspired by a battle tank. Raised shoulders, high front nose, flat roof, high ground clearance, and straight bonnet give the Mahindra TUV300 an iconic true blue SUV silhouette.

Speaking at the name reveal, Dr. Pawan Goenka, Executive Director, M&M Ltd. said “Today, Mahindra has the strongest equity in the SUV segment in India. In our ongoing automotive journey, we identified a need for a tough, bold and masculine SUV and our customer clinics have confirmed that the TUV300 delivers on these parameters. I am confident that the Mahindra TUV300 will follow in the footsteps of its illustrious predecessors to evolve into an iconic brand for Mahindra”.

Pravin Shah, President & Chief Executive, (Automotive)  M&M Ltd. said, “The TUV300 is the very epitome of the Mahindra RISE philosophy as its development challenged the limits and conventional thinking, and involved the innovative use of resources. The vehicle will be manufactured at M&M’s future-ready manufacturing facility at  MVML, Chakan in Maharashtra, where again innovative engineering, state-of-the-art technologies and manufacturing excellence are simply par excellence”.

True to the tough and rugged DNA of Mahindra vehicles, the Mahindra TUV300 is an all new SUV platform. The Mahindra TUV300 has been designed and developed in-house by the Mahindra design team. The research and development of Mahindra TUV300 has been carried out at the world class Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) in Chennai.

The Mahindra TUV300 is truly unique for the manner in which it was conceived and designed. In fact, all research and development activities for this SUV were planned with global standards of quality, technology, testing norms, safety, regulations and emissions from the very start to delight the customer.

The tough & stylish Mahindra TUV300 will be powered by the advanced mHawK engine.

About Mahindra

The Mahindra Group focuses on enabling people to rise through solutions that power mobility, drive rural prosperity, enhance urban lifestyles and increase business efficiency.

A USD 16.9 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India, Mahindra provides employment opportunities to over 200,000 people in over 100 countries. Mahindra operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, information technology, financial services  and vacation ownership. In addition, Mahindra enjoys a strong presence in the agribusiness, aerospace, components, consulting services, defence, energy, industrial equipment, logistics, real estate, retail, steel, commercial vehicles and two wheeler industries.

In 2014, Mahindra featured on the Forbes Global 2000, a comprehensive listing of the world’s largest, most powerful public companies, as measured by revenue, profit, assets and market value. The Mahindra Group also received the Financial Times ‘Boldness in Business’ Award in the ‘Emerging Markets’ category in 2013.

Visit us at www.mahindra.com

- See more at: http://www.mahindra.com/News/Press-Releases/1438249472#sthash.3PqypIhc.dpuf

Automotive Updates - 28th July 2015

• Globally well acclaimed German automaker Volkswagen has reportedly surpassed Toyota in terms of sales to become the world's biggest automaker, as shown by the figures for the first half of the year. Toyota said it sold 5.02 million vehicles worldwide between January and June, falling below earlier figures from Volkswagen of 5.04 million units shifted in the same period. US-based General Motors was sitting in third spot with 4.86 million in sales.(cartrade)

• Fair trade regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 420 crore on Hyundai Motor India for violating the provisions of the Competition Act, 2002.Along with Hyundai, CCI's order, dated July 27, 2015, found other two car companies - Mahindra Reva Electric Car Company and Premier to be in contravention of the provisions of the Act.(ETauto.com)

• Maruti Suzuki India Ltd on Tuesday said fiscal first-quarter profit rose 56.5% on higher sales and lower input costs.Net profit rose to Rs.1,193 crore in the quarter ended 30 June from Rs.762 crore in the year earlier. However, the performance missed analysts’ estimates by a wide margin. A Bloomberg poll of 37 analysts had expected Maruti’s June quarter profit at Rs.1,270 crore. In the preceding March quarter, Maruti Suzuki had recorded Rs.1,284 crore profit, its highest ever.(livemint)

• Homegrown auto major Tata Motors is developing a new platform for small commercial vehicles to tighten grip in the segment with its runaway success Ace mini-truck celebrates a decade of market leadership.The Tata Ace family of mini commercial vehicles has crossed the 1.5 million sales milestone since it was first launched in 2005.“We are always working on new products to meet the changing requirements of our customers. We are aware that the Ace platform is ten years old and so we are developing a new platform for small commercial vehicle,” Tata Motors Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, R Ramakrishnan told PTI.(financial express)

• The country's largest two-wheeler maker Hero MotoCorp will acquire certain assets of Eric Buell Racing for USD 2.8 million as part of a settlement agreement with court-appointed receiver in the bankruptcy matter of the US-based company. The settlement agreement was signed between HMCL (NA) Inc and HMCL Americas Inc - both entities of Hero MotoCorp Ltd (HMCL) - and the receiver appointed by the Circuit Court, Wisconsin, US, in the bankruptcy matter filed by Erik Buell Racing (EBR) and Erik Buell LLC, the company said in a filing to the BSE.(cartrade)

• Mahindra has announced the launch of the Automatic variant of the Scorpio. The new variant will be available on the top-end S10 trim level of the SUV in both - two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.The Scorpio AT is powered by the same 2,179cc, 4-cylinder mHawk diesel engine as the manual transmission version. This engine produces 120 BHP @ 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque @ 1,800-2,800 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.(Team-bhp)

Maruti Suzuki DZire enters the `elite 10 lakh club

Maruti Suzuki DZire, India's best-selling entry sedan for last three years, attained the 10 lakh cumulative sales mark this month. Launched in 2008, Maruti Suzuki DZire has been a category leader and has helped Maruti Suzuki strengthen its presence in the entry sedan segment.

With this milestone, Swift DZire now enters `the elite million club' comprising models such as Alto, Swift and Wagon R. Speaking on the feat, Mr. R S Kalsi, Executive Director, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki Indiasaid, "DZire is a complete package. Its refreshed looks, rich equipment list, enhanced fuel efficiency, have been warmly received by customers and have enabled us to strengthen sales and enhance share in a tough market. We thank all DZire customers for their patronage to the brand".

Based on the celebrated Swift platform, the DZire sports contemporary styling, superior comfort and convenience features. Available in both, Petrol and Diesel fuel options the car delivers exceptional mileage of 26.59 Km/l in diesel and petrol version with MT delivers a mileage of 20.85 Km/l. The vehicle offers premium features like engine push start/stop button, reverse park assist, new motion alloy wheels and Bluetooth with audio etc.

Smart facts on DZire
-	Over 10 lakh units sold in India
-	Amongst top three sellers in the Industry for last three years
-	India's bestselling sedan for last three years
-	Launched in March 2008
-	Full model change in Feb 2012
-	Second most fuel efficient sedan in India @ 26.59 Km/l (Diesel)
-	Refreshed Dzire Diesel - India's most fuel efficient in Feb'15
Cumulative sales milestones
-	100,000 units: Sep 09 (19 months)
-	200,000 units: Sep 10 (12 months)
-	300,000 units: Sep 11 (12 months)
-	500,000 units: Jan 13 (16 months)
-	700,000 units: Jan 14
-	900,000 units: Jan 15

Maruti Suzuki's Million club (Cumulative sales)

Alto (2.83 million) ; M800 (2.67 million) ; Omni (1.68 million) ; WagonR (1.63 million) ; Swift (1.36 million) and Swift Dzire (1.0 million)

Interestingly, Dzire is the only sedan to be in the top five most selling cars in India's passenger vehicle market.

To celebrate the occasion, Maruti Suzuki has lined up a month-long 'The sweets are on us' campaign. Through this campaign the Company plans to share the moment with everyone at large. "The sweets are on us" campaign includes sending edible direct mailers to the existing owners* and creating edible art installations inside malls by artists.

Dzire is also exported to Africa, South America, Central America, Middle East ASEAN and SAARC countries. The cumulative exports till Jun'15 were around 50,000 units.

Awards:

- CNBC Award for Sub-Compact Sedan of the Year 2013 - NDTV Car and Bike Award for Sub-Compact Sedan of the Year 2013 - Car India Award for Compact Sedan of the Year 2013 - JD Power APEAL Award in the entry midsize-car segment every year since its launch for five consecutive years - The JD Power IQS Award in the entry midsize-car segment in 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 - The JD Power Dependability Award in the entry midsize-car segment in 2011 - 1st place in the TNS Total Customer Satisfaction Study, in the entry midsize segment in 2010

HMCL AMERICAS INC. ENTERS INTO SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE EBRS CONSULTING ASSETS

HMCL NA, Inc. and HMCL Americas, Inc. (both wholly owned subsidiaries of Hero MotoCorp Ltd.) have entered into a “Settlement Agreement” with the “Receiver” appointed by the Circuit Court , Wisconsin, U.S.A. in the matter of Chapter 128 Receivership filed by the Erik Buell Racing, Inc. and Erik Buell LLC (“EBR”).
As per the Settlement Agreement, HMCL Americas Inc. has agreed to acquire the ownership of certain tangible and intangible assets of EBR. free and clear of all encumbrances, for a consideration of US$ 2.8 million. HMCL and the Receiver have also agreed to resolve all disputes and fully give mutual releases in terms of the Settlement Agreement for all subject matters which is in any way related to EBR.

 The Settlement Agreement is, inter alia, contingent upon the approval by the Circuit Court; and the approval of the board of directors of Hero MotoCorp, authorizing its joinder as a direct party to the Settlement Agreement on or before August 10, 2015. 
The performance of the Settlement Agreement will help Hero MotoCorp’s in-house research and development teams to accelerate development of certain consulting projects, including the projects EBR was executing for the Company at the time of filing of the Chapter 128 Receivership.
EBR Inc., in which the Company has an equity investment, and EBR Inc.’s subsidiary EBR LLC had ceased their operations with effect from April 15, 2015 and had filed for the Chapter 128 Receivership before the Circuit Court.
The notice of motion with regards to the Settlement Agreement will be filed in the Circuit Court in the next few days.

Mahindra drives in the New Thar CRDe

legendary off-roader raises the bar with more muscular exteriors and enhanced interior comfort; Continues the 4x4 legacy with its iconic rugged look

Price starts at Rs 8.03 lakhs (ex-showroom Nasik, for Thar CRDe), to be available across Mahindra dealerships in select markets, with immediate effect

SYNOPSIS:   The New Thar CRDe comes with: Enhanced exteriors with new front & rear bumpers, new muscular wheel arches, new clear lens headlamps, re-designed side footsteps and canopy to take the timeless design of the iconic Thar a notch higher. Premium new interiors: New dual-tone dashboard, wider seats, new steering wheel and door trims with arm rests, re-designed AC vents, new floor console with cup holders, new windshield demister, new gear knob, 12V charging point, provision for 2 DIN music system and lockable glove box. Industry-first, mechanical locking rear differential technology that engages automatically without driver intervention and provides enhanced off-road capability. v  The New Thar CRDe will continue to boast off-road features like the 44 degree approach angle and 27 degree departure angle, 4WD with high & low ratios, powerful 2500cc CRDe engine and a high ground clearance of 200mm. v  Available in 5 colors, Fiery Black, Red Rage, Mist Silver, Rocky Beige, & Diamond White.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.), India ’s leading SUV manufacturer, today unveiled the New Thar CRDe, its popular true blue off-roader. The New Thar CRDe comes with enhanced exteriors, and all new interiors with added comfort & convenience features, all of which take the legendary off-roader to the next level.

Targeted at the off-roading enthusiasts and people wanting to make a unique style statement, the New Thar CRDe, will be competitively priced at Rs. 8.03 lacs (ex-showroom Nasik).

The New Thar CRDe is now an even more compelling proposition with features like a mechanical locking rear differential which further enhances its off-road capability. With its new front & rear bumpers, new butch-looking wheel arches, clear lens headlamps, new rugged tubular side footsteps and a redesigned canopy, the vehicle sports a distinctive new exterior which has raised the bar on its timeless and iconic look.

The new Thar also features more premium interiors including a new black-beige dashboard, more premium and wider seats, a redesigned center bezel, new sporty 3-pod instrument cluster, new steering wheel and gear knob, re-designed AC vents, new windshield demister and door trims. For added convenience, there’s a new lockable glove box and a new floor console with cup holders.

Built to tackle any terrain, the New Thar CRDe also retains its legendary off-road features like its extreme 44⁰ approach angle, 27⁰ departure angle, high ground clearance of 200mm, powerful 2500cc CRDe engine, and standard 4WD with high & low ratios.

Speaking at the launch of the New Thar CRDe, Pravin Shah, President & Chief Executive, (Automotive) Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said, “Since its launch, the Thar has been the face of our tough and rugged DNA, a continuation of our legacy and what Mahindra stands for. Today as we launch the new avatar of this ever popular off-roader, the effort has been to enhance the appeal of a brand that is already a cult. Increasingly consumers are looking for a different lifestyle as they seek an adventure and fun experience and the Thar is the perfect companion for such thrill seekers. I am confident that in its new avatar, the Thar CRDe will not only continue to be ever popular among off-road enthusiasts but significantly widen its appeal amongst a whole new set of consumers.”

The New Thar CRDe

Launched in 2010, the Thar CRDe is a true-blue, stylish off roader, an evolved version of the Mahindra CL340, the MM 540.  The Thar CRDe, reflects the company’s legendary tough and rugged DNA like no other model and is the most favored recreational 4x4 vehicle among enthusiasts. The Thar is central to Mahindra Adventure off-roading events and is also the lead training vehicle at India’s only off-road training academy located at Igatpuri.

Over the years, the Thar has played a significant role in shaping the lifestyle vehicle segment in India. Its powerful CRDe engine delivers both power and fuel economy. The cabin can seat six, while two rear bench seats can be folded to create a massive luggage area.

It is available in a BS IV variant with power steering as a standard fitment, allowing for a comfortable drive. A wide range of genuine accessories & customization options are also available. With the introduction of the New Thar CRDe, it is all set to chart new terrain in the Indian automobile industry.

Superior Off-road Performance & Thrill of Driving

A cult off-roader, the New Thar CRDe can literally triumph over any terrain with its newly added first in class feature, the auto engaging differential lock.

• Extreme 44⁰ approach angle and 27⁰ departure angle
• Powerful 2500cc  CRDe engine
• New mechanical locking rear differential
• High ground clearance of 200mm
• 
  

Exteriors deliver Road Presence- both On and Off Road

The New Thar CRDe sports a distinctive new exterior to further enhance its timeless appeal.

• New front & rear bumpers – rugged looking bumpers complement the timeless design
• New wheel arches – butch looking wheel arches enhance the Thar’s appeal
• New side footsteps- for easy ingress and egress
• New redesigned canopy – lends a distinct look
• New clear lens head lamps – for added safety
• 
  

Enhanced Interiors and Better Ergonomics

The New Thar CRDe, with its all new stylish interiors & new dual tone dashboard, make a compelling proposition, while its better ergonomics provide an enhanced user experience and added convenience.

• Premium new seats
• Dual tone dashboard
• 3-pod instrument cluster
• Re-designed AC vents
• New windshield demister
• Lockable glove box
• New steering wheel and gear knob
• New door trims
• New floor console with cup holders

- See more at: http://www.mahindra.com/News/Press-Releases/1437721368#sthash.yC4RSP1I.dpuf

India's No. 1 Mini-Truck - Tata ACE completes a Decade of Trust One in every five commercial vehicle, sold in India, is from the Tata ACE Family

Tata Motors today formally celebrated the tenth anniversary of Tata Ace that had created a new Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) category when first launched in 2005 and is now the most successful SCV brand.

The Tata Ace, an engineering marvel, was launched, when Tata Motors recognized a latent customer need to create a completely new market segment to pioneer the concept of mini-truck in India. It has since remained among the most preferred choices of Indian entrepreneurs and small businesses, leading the market with an 85% market-share. Highlighting the success of this path-breaking innovation, the Tata Ace family has surpassed the 1.5 million sales mark in these ten years. Today, one in every five commercial vehicle sold in India, is from the Tata Ace Family.

Speaking at the celebration ceremony, Mr. R. Ramakrishnan, Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, said "Completion of ten successful years of Ace is truly a remarkable milestone. Tata Ace has been a revolutionary product and is a result of our deep understanding of the market and consumer. While we feel this is only the beginning of a long successful journey, we are proud that the Ace family has been the preferred choice for last mile transportation, selling over 1.5 million vehicles, globally, since inception and has been responsible for generating entrepreneurship and employment in many parts of India. 

Making this journey special are over 1 million customers, who have trusted the brand and have grown in the businesses. We would like to extend our gratitude to all our customers for trusting the brand."

The Ace family has helped uplift many lives and has been a strong contributor to the growth of many entrepreneurs and small scale businesses in India. The Ace family of vehicles has been constantly evolving, strategically identifying and filling gaps in the market ahead of its time. The platform has thus far produced about 12 offerings, based on Engine type, engine power & body configurations. The Ace family today comprises of the Ace HT, the Ace EX, the Ace CNG, the Ace High deck, the Ace DICOR NA, the Ace DICOR turbo, the Ace Zip and the latest addition to family was the Super Ace Mint. On the last mile passenger transportation side, the Ace platform has brought in Magic HT, the Magic CNG, the Magic IRIS and the Magic IRIS CNG.

The Ace is the most versatile small commercial vehicle in the industry, catering to varied demands and providing customized solutions for various applications. The Ace's affordable pricing and low maintenance cost throughout the life-cycle has fostered self-employed entrepreneurs and help small businesses grow across urban/ semi-urban/ rural areas.

As the Tata Ace family's renown spread, Tata Motors went on to make deep inroads across the country. At present, about 1,600 showrooms, sell the Ace variants. Production capacity too has grown commensurately. The Tata Ace was launched in 2004-05 with a capacity of 30,000 units per year in Pune. The dedicated plant in Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) today has a capacity of 5,00,000 units per year. To meet the growing demand, in 2012, Tata Motors commenced production of the Tata ACE Zip at the new plant in Dharwad.

As the country today celebrates "Make in India", Tata Motors is proud of how Tata Ace has successfully traversed global boundaries since its first export in 2006. The Tata Ace family has crossed over 100,000 sales mark with a foot print spanning 28 countries across South Asia, Africa and the ASEAN regions.

The Ace family will continue to develop and offer innovative solutions based on the three core vectors of DesigNext, PerformanceNext and FuelNext to cater to the evolving needs of customers.

With the largest and strong growing network in place, a continuous slew of upgrades, new launches and specific marketing interventions, Tata Motors continues to be the dominant player and is making strides in the Small Commercial Vehicle Industry.

Note - Image for illustration only.

Maruti Suzuki launches NEXA: A New Premium Automotive Experience

Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), leader in the Indian automobile industry, today launched NEXA, its new premium sales channel. NEXA marks the first initiative by an automobile company to go beyond selling cars and create a new format of retail experience for the customer.

Nearly 100 NEXA showrooms will come up across India over the next 6-8 months.

Maruti Suzuki has consistently led the industry in terms of reach, depth and quality of sales and service network. The high level of customer satisfaction at the network has contributed to the Company achieving a market share in the range of 45%.

To attain its medium term goal of two million annual sales by 2020, the Company is taking new initiatives in all areas of business. NEXA is one of the major initiatives. The Company is reaching out to new segments of customers emerging in a changing India.

Over the years, Maruti Suzuki has relied on customer feedback to introduce new products and create new categories. It was also the first to offer a bouquet of "solutions" to customers (insurance, finance, trade-in of pre-owned cars) at its dealerships. The next step is taking the lead in offering customers "experience", through NEXA.

Customer feedback and surveys have shown there is a growing segment of car buying Indians who desire and value personal care, warmth and attention in their car buying and ownership experience. They want people, technology, showroom ambience and processes to come together and offer them a "premium experience". These customers want to be pampered! NEXA is designed for this segment of customers.

Maruti Suzuki India Limited's Managing Director & CEO, Kenichi Ayukawa said: "NEXA provides a new experience of hospitality from Maruti Suzuki. Indian market and Indian society are rapidly changing and new segments of customers are emerging. We have to take new initiatives to meet diversifying expectations from our customers".

He added: "The mission of NEXA is to offer innovative value and direction so that we can adequately respond to the new segments of Indian customers and offer them the experience which they value. While we will of course continue to enhance customer satisfaction in our current network, with NEXA, I am confident Maruti Suzuki will be able to cater to a broader range of customers who value pampering, innovation and a personal touch in their car owning experience".

S-Cross, India's first premium crossover that debuts in August 2015 will be the first car to be sold under NEXA. Several new models will be added to both channels as part of the Company's medium term goal of 2 million annual sales by 2020.

The NEXA Experience – Many firsts

NEXA is Maruti Suzuki's pioneering initiative to create a new format of premium automotive retail. At launch, nearly 1000 Relationship Managers have been recruited and trained; their number will go up to 2500 in the next 6-8 months. Many of them are being hired from sectors like aviation, hospitality and financial services, expanding the talent pool of the automobile sector, another industry first.

While NEXA is best experienced by a personal visit, some highlights are shared below.

NEXA is New Hospitality Experience:

One of the core values of NEXA is pampering and hospitality. Pampering is about listening to the customer; it is about understanding his needs. The relationship managers have been trained to give the customer full attention when in conversation and being there when the customer requires. Besides, they will also exhibit qualities such as warmth, respect, courtesy and punctuality. Special attention has been accorded to maintaining customer privacy while the conversations are on. Specially designed cubicles and separate seating area fulfils this objective.

NEXA is New "Lifetime" Experience:

The Relationship Manager will ensure that the entire buying, after sales and ownership experience is smooth and hassle free. To ensure this the NEXA team has been trained using in-depth and holistic modules developed by ace trainer Dale Carnegie.

Another interesting feature is MyNEXA, a loyalty program that has been designed to offer rewards and recognition beyond the automotive industry. Through co-branded credit cards and tie-ups with lifestyle brands, MyNEXA makes the NEXA relationship more rewarding.

NEXA is New Digital Experience:

NEXA will be one of the most digitally and technologically advanced buying experiences for automobile customers. Equipped with state-of-the-art ipads, every Relationship Manager will deliver outstanding in-store experience. Going paper less, the car configurator provides a virtual experience to the customer. From Apple TVs that easily mirror ipads to a digital welcome when he comes in for delivery, the customer lives through a delightful virtual experience during his stay at NEXA.

NEXA Owner's App, a Smart Phone Application is another technology enabler which helps the customer to recall service history, emergency support, accessory purchase, event updates, booking and manage service requests and even a choice of favourite music.

NEXA is New Design Experience: NEXA showrooms have been designed in a black and white prestige monochromatic theme that showcases the displayed vehicles in their full glory. Special attention has been given to in store lighting. The entire spotlight is on the car. A dedicated in-showroom delivery area, with LEDs and music, brightens up the customer's biggest moment of joy – car delivery - manifold. Interestingly, at the NEXA showroom the customer's first journey in his new vehicle starts when he drives out from a premium air-conditioned showroom.

To know more about NEXA, customers can dial a Toll Free Number 1800 200 6392 as well as log into www.nexaexperience.com. Follow us on Twitter @NexaExperience

Hyundai Launches Global SUV- ‘CRETA’

• CRETA – A ‘Perfect SUV’ for the New Generation 
• Offers First- in-class 6 speed Automatic Transmission in Diesel variant 
• Best-in-class Warranty - 3 Years Unlimited Kilometres

New Delhi, July 21, 2015- Hyundai Motor India Ltd, the country’s leading premium car manufacturer and the largest passenger car exporter, today launched the all-new stylish, premium and powerful Global SUV - ‘CRETA’. With the launch of CRETA, Hyundai now strengthens its position in the Indian SUV market, offering wide range of products for its customers.

CRETA offers a combination of power and style with its robust body structure, superior engine performance and confident ride and handling. CRETA is set to make a strong statement in the growing SUV segment. Based on Hyundai Motor’s evolved ‘Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 Design philosophy’, CRETA demonstrates all the essential attributes of dynamism, comfort, safety and style.

Speaking at the launch of CRETA, BS Seo, Managing Director & CEO, HMIL said, “We are delighted to launch the perfectly engineered and powerful SUV for the new generation customers. CRETA is a revolutionary product – a true expression of the ‘New Age Hyundai’. We are confident CRETA will strengthen Hyundai’s position in India and will lead a new trend in the SUV segment fulfilling customers’ aspiration of owning a ‘Perfect SUV’. We thank our customers for their overwhelming response to CRETA and strong belief in Hyundai brand. We assure them of our commitment towards meeting their high aspirations on world-class quality products."

Photo Caption (Pic 1) – Mr B. S. Seo, MD & CEO, HMIL at the Global Launch of the Hyundai CRETA in New Delhi

Photo Caption (Pic 2) – Mr. B. S. Seo, MD & CEO, HMIL, Mr Rakesh Srivastava, Sr. VP sales & Marketing, HMIL along with Mr. Y. J. Ann-Executive Director, Sales & Marketing, HMIL at the Global Launch of Hyundai CRETA 
 

Hyundai Cares: Customer Delight

Hyundai vision is to be the Life time partner of its customers. We are always around and near to our customers. Hyundai offers Best-in-class warranty with 3 Years Unlimited Kilometres to all CRETA customers. Hyundai is the first automobile manufacturer to offer this customer delight initiative in the segment .

Strong Body Structure

CRETA is one of the toughest and strongest SUVs in its segment. CRETA is designed with strong ‘ Hive structure’ body shell that denotes high structural strength stability and sturdiness. The ring shaped frames applied at B-Pillar, C-Pillar and engine bay helps to achieve high body rigidity, improved durability and crash performance. The ring frame structure realizes a significant increase in body stiffness, which contributes to more precise handling while maintaining excellent ride quality.

The ‘Hive’ structure in CRETA delivers strong benefits such as:

• High Body rigidity with ring structure design for enhanced structural safety, improved durability, ride & handling and reduced side impact
• Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) & Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) for enhanced body endurance, corrosion durability and lighter body for better mileage
• Reinforced roof structure with multiple cross members for enhanced strength
• Improved crash performance with addition of dash cross members. Use of larger diameter weld joints & use of reinforced side members having Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) on door panels for improved body strength
• Front end modular structure to reduce the maintenance cost

Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 Design

Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design philosophy carries forward the highly acclaimed Fluidic design theme in a more refined manner thus lending a Modern & Premium touch. CRETA design follows a modern premium look, based on Hyundai Motor's evolved design philosophy. An SUV with a unique and innovative form, CRETA represents a complete package of style, dynamism and practicality.

DESIGNED TO INSPIRE: Exteriors

The CRETA portrays strong road presence and perfectly embodies the aggressive stance of an SUV in its own style. The triple slat chrome radiator grille makes a bold design statement while the smoothly creased hood, lines projector headlamps integrated with LED positioning lamps, vertical fog lamps, sporty stylish skid plate and dual tone front bumper enhance the vehicle’s stylish and distinctive SUV character. Rising beltline with slopping roofline along with dynamic character lines brings a sporty and aerodynamic appeal to the side profile. The rear profile showcases a stylish dual layered step tailgate design with impactful crease lines.

Below are some key exterior elements:

• Diamond cut 17’’ Alloy Wheels- Best-in-class 
• Projector Headlamps
• LED Positioning Lamps
• Static bending
• Roof Rails & Skid Plates
• Door Scuff Plates
• Triple slat Chrome Radiator Grille
• Shark fin antenna- Best -in-Class
• A-Pillar piano black finish - Best- in-class

Smart, Premium and Spacious Interiors

CRETA’s stylish and bold appearance harmonizes well with its smart and high quality premium interiors; achieved by a combinations of high-grade materials. CRETA interiors feature well cushioned and comfortable seats with optimum thigh and back support. Attractive seats covered in full-leather upholstery, exude a sense of modernity and premium feel. Rear seats come with 60:40 split which allows better flexibility and more storage space. The dashboard with its futuristic water flow inspired design and smart ergonomic contours make the cabin environment pleasing and enjoyable.

• Premium Leather seats
• Fully Automatic temperature control with Cluster ionizer
• Mood change bar in FATC- Best-in-class
• Electric folding ORVM- Best-in-class
• Rear AC vents
• Smart Key with push button start
• Steering mounted Audio & Bluetooth controls
• Rear seat centre armrest with cup-holders
• Front console armrest with storage box
• 1 GB internal memory- Best-in-class

Infotainment System

CRETA uses next generation infotainment system for effortless connectivity for all gadgets and devices. The SUV’s multimedia system boasts of 7” Audio Video Navigation (AVN) and with 6 speakers sound system. The AVN system features Advance Touch interface , user friendly maps, video playing and image viewing capability through USB, Bluetooth support and rear camera display. Adding to the entertainment package is an option of 5” Touch screen audio system that features Aux-in, IPOD, USB,MP3, CD, Bluetooth support with Best-in-class 1 GB memory.

Advanced Powertrains

The capabilities of the CRETA are driven by a range of refined, powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines which have been tuned for best performance and high fuel efficiency.
The 6-speed Manual transmission and the first-in-class 6-Speed Automatic transmission in diesel offer a blend of high performance & enhanced driving pleasure.

Engine	Capacity (cc)	Maximum Power (ps/rpm)	Maximum Torque (kgm/rpm)
1.6 Gamma Dual VTVT Petrol engine	1,591	123 / 6,400	15.4 / 4,850
1.6 U2 CRDi VGT (MT/AT) Diesel engine	1,582	128 / 4,000	26.5 / 1,900-2,750
1.4 U2 CRDi Diesel engine	1,396	90 / 4,000	22.4 / 1500-2,750

Mileage

Engine	ARAI (Certified Figures)
1.6 Gamma Dual VTVT Petrol engine	15.29 kmpl
1.6 U2 CRDi VGT (MT/AT) Diesel engine	19.67 kmpl (MT) 17.01 kmpl (AT)
1.4 U2 CRDi Diesel engine	21.38 kmpl

Dimensions

Length x Width x Height	4,270 x 1,780 x 1,630 mm
Wheelbase	2,590 mm
Max Tyre	215/ 60 R17
Ground clearance ( Unladen)	190 mm

Low NVH

The CRETA has class-leading NVH performance by the use of enhanced sound absorption materials, advanced engineering design of engine, transmission and body structural parts thus ensuring quiet cabin. The NVH has been well contained to barely perceptible levels with the use of dash insulators, anti-vibration pads, sound deadener coating on floor, optimized engine mounts, tunnel area rigidity and application of dual sealing structure on doors.

Hi-Tech Features

To ensure enhanced comfort and convenience CRETA offers an array of Hi-tech features:

• 7” Audio Video Navigation System (AVN)
• 5’’ Touch screen Audio system
• Supervision Cluster
• Smart Key with push button start
• FATC with cluster ionizer and mood change bar
• LED positioning lamps
• Shark Fin Antenna
• Follow me home headlamp

SUV with Power Packed Safety Features

All Hyundai cars are developed, tested and built-in keeping with the Hyundai ‘ Safe-Drive Philosophy’. Beyond active safety technologies, CRETA is built to comply with Hyundai’s strict safety standards, helping it to meet the safety requirements.

• 6 Airbags- Best-in-class
• Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
• Reverse parking camera with steering adaptive guidelines & Sensors - Best in class 
• Electronic Stability control (ESC)
• Vehicle stability Management (VSM)
• Hill Start Assist control (HAC)
• Front Fog lamps
• Static bending - Cornering lamps
• Projector headlamps

Variants and Colours

CRETA will be available in 10 variants with 7 exterior colour options.

EX-SHOWROOM PRICE DELHI

	L	S	S+	SX	SX+	SX (O)
1.6 PL	859,558	957,062			1,119,548
1.4 DSL	946,939	1,042,225	1,145,030
DSL				1,159,971	1,267,770	1,360,156
					1,357,770 (AT)