Motown India August 2020

VOL-10 • ISSUE-11 • AUGUST 2020 • `300/-

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INDIA

FIRST DRIVE

2020 HECTOR PLUS

FIRST DRIVE 2020 HONDA CITY

B2B SECTION

FIRST DRIVE POLARIS SPORTSMAN 570 TRACTOR

GLOBAL UNVEILING IN INDIA KIA SONET COMPACT SUV

COVER REPORT: RIP 2020 - INDIAN AUTO INDUSTRY

KERALA GOD’S OWN COUNTRY

Artwork created by MPPL team

Praying for the calm to retur n!

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EDITOR Punnoose Tharyan (Roy) ptharyan@motownindia.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------News Coordinator - Jisha P Sr. Correspondent - Farhan Khan, Aki Paul Video Editor - Ramesh Kumar Content Manger - Vrinda Desai Digital In-charge Naveen Kumar Web Correspondents - Avdesh Kumar, Seema Paul Photo Journalist - Afsar Baig ---------------------------------------------------------------------For Editorial contact editorial@motownindia.com, editorial.motown@gmail.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------FOR MARKETING & SALES CONTACT Head-Operations - Jisha P jisha@motownindia.com, +91-9958125645 advertising@motownindia.com, advertising.motown@gmail.com /+91-9811097399 ---------------------------------------------------------------------FOR ACCOUNTS CONTACT Ankit Sharma, ankit@motownindia.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------FOR CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION CONTACT subscription@motownindia.com / +91-9958125645 ----------------------------------------------------------------------Office Executive Ravinder ----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL DELHI OFFICE 145 B/9, First Floor, Kishangarh, Next to United Free Church, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110070 ----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL CONTENT The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the contents in the magazine are correct. However, he can accept no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions. Any unauthorised reproduction of Motown India content is strictly forbidden.

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T

P. THARYAN (ROY) he year 2019 witnessed negative growth in domestic sales in almost all segments of the auto industry. Everyone was hoping that 2020 would be different and things would look up. Unfortunately, out of the blue a dreaded virus by the name COVID-19 entered our lives and played havoc with everything

we had nurtured for so long. Our lives, our homes, our businesses, our offices and even our way of living were drastically affected. The pandemic not only killed millions across the globe, but it threatened to extinguish our livelihoods too. Offices, plants, factories, public transport, shopping malls, etc came to a grinding halt.

The Indian auto industry, for the first time, recorded zero domestic sales for the month of April 2020 following countrywide shut down of plants as part of a nationwide lockdown called by the Indian government. We are carrying a report, “RIP 2020 Indian Auto Industry� which details the current state of affairs in the auto industry. Not all is lost. There are several out there who are convinced by the views that things will change for the better. A lot of damage has already happened. Indian auto companies have lost their market shares and have slipped into the red. Yet, there is hope amidst this gloom.

We have also reviewed a few vehicles in the midst of this pandemic. Interesting and modern vehicles like the Hector Plus, the new 2020 Honda City, the 2020 Hyundai Creta, the Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor are among a few vehicles we have reviewed. I sincerely hope you all will enjoy reading this issue of Motown India. Happy reading and stay safe wherever you are.

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C.R. Park, New Delhi - 110019

----------------------------------------------------------------------This issue of Motown India magazine contains 72 pages including both covers.

----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL ADVISORS Alexander T. & Annie Jacob

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AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 3

CONTE NTS VOL 10 | ISSUE 11 | AUGUST 2020

08

10

CAR NEWS: FCA introduces Jeep

CAR NEWS: Kia Sonet ‘Wild by

Compass ‘Night Eagle’

21

14

Design’ compact SUV unveiled

CAR NEWS: Maruti Suzuki S-Cross petrol with 1.5L K15B engine

24

BIKE NEWS: Upgraded KTM 250

30

WHEELZ & ROADZ :

Duke launched at `2.09 lakh

MG Hector Plus

WHEELZ & ROADZ : 2020 Honda City

40

44

WHEELZ & ROADZ :

WHEELZ & ROADZ :

2020 TVS Apache RR 310 BS 6

Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor

50 WHEELZ & ROADZ :

Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro 6 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

54 B2B COVER REPORT:

RIP 2020 Indian Auto Industry

67 B2B NEWS: Delhi government announces EV Policy

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CAR NEWS

FCA introduces JEEP COMPASS ‘NIGHT EAGLE’ at `20.14 lakh onward Celebrating the 3rd Anniversary of the Jeep Compass in India, FCA has introduced the ‘Night Eagle’, a Global Limited Edition. The Night Eagle is being offered in a classy ‘Black’ theme and is based on the newly-introduced variant Longitude Plus, which will continue as a regular variant in the Compass range after the Night Eagle completes its market cycle. Customers can select from a palette of four body colours – Vocal White, Exotica Red, Brilliant Black and Magnesio Grey – for their Night Eagle. The Limited Edition is available to customers in its exquisite ‘Black’ theme inside-out.

Its exteriors are accentuated with black ‘Jeep’ badging on the front and rear, glossy black exterior accents on the seven-slot grille, on the periphery of the DLO (daylight opening)

and also the fog lamp bezels.

The Night Eagle comes with a standard glossy black roof and 18-inch black wheels.

The exclusivity in Night Eagle’s interior comes from the black ‘Techno Leather’ seats. The passenger cabin is embellished with glossy black accents that elevate the overall ambience for the occupants.

The Night Eagle is available to customers with an all-BS-VI powertrain and transmission selection from the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol with the 7-speed automatic in 4x2 configuration, the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with 6-speed manual

transmission in 4x2 and also the 9-speed automatic with the ingenious four-mode Jeep SelecTerrain 4x4 AWD configuration. The Jeep Compass Night Eagle comes with all features offered in the Longitude trim.

THE JEEP COMPASS NIGHT EAGLE PACKAGE 1.4 turbo-petrol Multiair BS6

162 PS

250 Nm

7-speed DDCT

4x2

INR 20.14 lakh

2.0 turbo-diesel Multijet II BS6

173 PS

350 Nm

6-speed Manual

4x2

INR 20.75 lakh

9-speed Automatic

4x4

INR 23.31 lakh

Note: All prices are ex-Mumbai and all variants are offered in the Longitude Plus trim

8 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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Puzzle image credits: Designed by mindandi / Freepik

TOUGH TIMES CALL FOR

CAR NEWS

KIA SONET ‘Wild by Design’ compact SUV unveiled

K

ia Motors India launched the Seltos a year or so back and that SUV really deserves the moniker badass. It is truly an uncompromising vehicle in terms of styling, quality and features and in the highly competitive world of SUVs, it has become a runaway success.

But now Kia Motors India has stepped into the hotbed of competition, yes the compact suv segment. The Kia Sonet will be a made in India for India as well as the global model. India will be an export base for the Kia Sonet. The Kia Sonet is being built at the Kia Motors India Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh. Prices of the Kia Sonet will be announced at the time of launch during festive season.

The Kia Sonet will be available, like the Kia Seltos in both a Tech Line as well as GT Line, each having its own set of variants. The Sonet will be available in both petrol and diesel variants with manual and automatic

10 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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CAR NEWS

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AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 11

CAR NEWS transmission choices. There is a diesel automatic variant too.

Two petrol engine options: • Smartstream G1.2 petrol engine • Performance oriented 1 litre G1.0 T-GDI petrol engine Diesel engine: • D 1.5 litre CRDI diesel engine Gearbox options: • 5-speed manual • 6-speed manual • 6-speed Automatic (iMT) • 7-speed DCT The Sonet gets a 6-speed iMT Technology. The Intelligent Manual Transmission or iMT gearbox will enable a clutch-less shifting with the control of a manual shift lever, offering the best of both worlds! This path-breaking innovation will not only enhance the driving experience, but also prove to be instrumental in improving clutch life since it is handled electronically.

The Kia Sonet has a Wild by Design theme and I must say it is really WILD. All CAPS there. While the Seltos looks contemporary and youthful, the Sonet has all the distinctive features of this lineage.

There are several first in segment as well as unique features in the Sonet and we shall reveal a few of them as we go along. In fact, it is loaded with 30+ segment-first features across design, performance and connectivity. Kia Motors India team allowed us to take an hour long peek view of the vehicle at their showroom but did not allow us to drive it.

you go, talking of first in segment features and offerings, the Sonet is the first SUV in the segment to be offered in the GT Line trim. Unlike the non-GT line, the GT Line trim gets a black high glossy Grille with GT Line logo and red accents on the front. The rear of the GT line encompasses the Piano Black Diffuser Fin Skid Plates with red accents.

The Kia Sonet carries the Wild

by Design theme and this theme is quite evident when you get to see the vehicle from all angles. In front you have the Crown Jewel LED headlamps, ‘Heartbeat’ LED DRLs with integrated side turn indicators. The vehicle gets

auto headlamps and projector fog lamps. As you move to the rear you get to see the ‘Heartbeat’ LED tail lamps.

The tail lamps are connected with a unique reflector garnish, giving the impression that this compact suv is a lot wider than it actually is.

Again in front you have the ‘Turbo’ shaped skid plates, while the rear includes a sporty dual muffler design and diffuser fin rear skid plate. The sun roof, roof rails, shark fin antenna, 16 inches alloy wheels, the quarter glass on the C pillar, the use of chrome and other embellishments make the overall design and styling of the Sonet stand out.

EXTERIORS The Kia Sonet definitely has a very youthful and vibrant styling about it.

It looks like the younger sibling of the Seltos with its Tiger Nose grille. But the Sonet gets a distinctive threedimensional ‘stepwell’ geometric grille mesh. The overall design of the vehicle is definitely new and inspiring.

Like the Seltos, this vehicle will also get the sporty GT Line trim. There

12 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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CAR NEWS INTERIORS The Kia Sonet cabin is sophisticated and purposeful and when it comes to practicality, it scores big. The dashboard has a two-layer tray to store mobile devices and other items while driving. Steering wheel-mounted controls, Air vents in the dashboard featuring a metallic, diamond-knurled pattern, enhance the vehicle’s practical as well as design elements.

Segment unique features are plenty within the cabin The Sonet gets a 10.25 inch HD touchscreen with Infotainment and Navigation system. Additionally, the 4.2-inch instrument cluster panel is of a sporty design and presents useful information to the driver in vivid colours, which includes navigation turn-by-turn, High

Line Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Multi Drive Modes and Grip Control.

The vehicle has features like a Smart Pure Air Purifier with Virus Protection which I feel makes a lot of sense in today’s world, BOSE Premium 7-speaker System with Sub-woofer, ventilated seats for driver and co passenger, LED sound mood lamps, remote engine start for automatic and manual transmission through UVO & smart key, smartphone wireless charger with cooling function, etc. The GT Line trim comes with red stitching on the steering wheel, seats and door armrest. The Sonet also sports a D-cut steering wheel adding to its sporty appeal. The Sonet gets Smart Key remote engine start feature for both AT and

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MT transmissions. The Sonet also comes loaded with Kia’s native suite of UVO connected technology with 57 features including the seamless UVO - Voice Assist.

The Sonet features an extensive list of active and passive safety equipment. It will come equipped with up to six airbags. – offering a class-leading combination of front, side and curtain protection for occupants.

Sonet’s body structure constitutes more than 2/3 high strength and advance high strength steel . Features like ABS with EBD,• ESC, HAC, VSM and Brake assist, Front & Rear parking sensors, Highline tyre pressure monitor and Isofix child anchor add to the vehicle’s safety armour.

AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 13

CAR NEWS

MARUTI SUZUKI S-CROSS petrol with 1.5L K15B engine at `8.39 lakh onward

M

aruti Suzuki India Limited launched an all-new S-Cross petrol model with a powerful 1.5 Litre K series BS6 petrol engine. The launch of the S-Cross petrol also marks the entrypoint for the Automatic variant of the range. Prices of the new S-Cross begin at Rs 8,39,000.

The new S-Cross Petrol with 4 meter plus dimensions offers a spacious and extended design. It is powered by progressive smart hybrid technology.

The petrol S-Cross comes with several feature-rich offerings including cruise

14 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

control, LED DRLs, rain sensing wipers, auto headlamps and reverse parking sensors and camera. The advanced infotainment system with Smart Play studio is further revamped with superior features such as seamless smartphone connectivity, 7� capacitive touch screen and ultra-modern navigation system for an unmatched ride.

POWERTRAIN The all-new S-Cross Petrol is powered by the bigger and powerful 1.5 Litre K-series BS6 petrol engine. The new refined engine delivers a peak power of

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CAR NEWS

103.26hp@6000 rpm with a top-end torque of 138Nm@4400rpm.

The engine offers superior NVH characteristics powered by a pendulum mount engine, offering a fuel efficiency of 18.55km/l and an improved cooling performance. The all-new S-Cross Petrol is now available with a 4 speed automatic transmission that offers a refined drive experience to customers.

Hill hold assist feature comes as standard. The S-Cross automatic offers fuel efficiency of 18.43lm/l.

TOUCHSCREEN SMARTPLAY STUDIO The in-car entertainment, SmartPlay studio with 7-inch capacitive touchscreen infotainment system connects to the cloud to deliver an engaging experience. Live traffic updates, voice recognition and access to curated online content through AHA radio via the Smartplay Studio App help make the journey enjoyable. It is

enabled with smartphone connectivity for seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

ADVANCED SMART HYBRID TECHNOLOGY The S-Cross petrol is equipped with Smart Hybrid system with li-ion dual battery system offering improved fuel efficiency, idle start-stop, torque assists functions and brake energy regeneration in addition to providing optimal acceleration and performance.

The powerful and stylish exterior design of the all-new S-Cross Petrol is complemented by its premium interiors. Leather clad dashboard, steering wheel and seats bring in sophistication. The automatic rain sensing wipers, auto projector LED headlamps and Cruise-control further enhance customer convenience.

The all new S-Cross Petrol offers a host of convenience features including

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auto-retracting outside rear view mirror (ORVM), auto-dimming and antiglare inside rear view mirror (IRVM), rear parking camera and gear shift indicator. Further, adhering to the NEXA Safety Shield requirements, the all new S-Cross Petrol comes loaded with the latest safety features. These include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, driver and co-driver seat belt reminder, rear parking assist, high speed warning alert, reverse parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat restraint system.

These safety features are standard across all variants to ensure complete safety of passengers. Further, the all new S-Cross Petrol is compliant with advance safety norms including frontal offset crash, side impact and pedestrian safety.

The all new S-Cross Petrol is available with 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission.

Automatic variants are equipped with hill hold assist feature, as standard.

AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 15

CAR NEWS

ALL NEW FERRARI F8 TRIBUTO makes debut in India

16 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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CAR NEWS

T

he all new Ferrari F8 Tributo finally made its debut in India. Ferrari unveiled the F8 Tributo at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show in March 2019.

Coming back to the India debut, the car was unveiled by Select Cars, the official Ferrari importer in New Delhi. The F8 Tributo is the new mid-rear-engined sports car that represents the highest expression of the Prancing Horse’s classic twoseater Berlinetta. It is a car with unique characteristics and, as its name implies is homage to the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history.

The F8 Tributo replaces the 488 GTB and, in the range, is the model with the highest performance matched by the greatest driver involvement. There are significant improvements across the board aimed at providing even better control on the limit along with greater on-board comfort.

SPECIFICATION Engine Type

V8 - 90° twin turbo

Displacement

3902cc

Peak power

530 kW (711hp approx.) @ 7000 rpm

Peak torque

770 Nm @ 3250 rpm

LxWxH

4611mm x 1979mm x 1206mm

Wheelbase

2650mm

Kerb weight

1435kg

Boot capacity

200 litres

Fuel tank capacity

78 litres

Tyres

Front: 245/35 ZR 20 J9,0 Rear: 305/30 ZR 20 J11.0

Brakes

Front: 398 x 223 x 38mm Rear: 360 x 233 x 32 mm

Transmission & Gearbox

F1 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox

0-100 km/h

2.90s

Top speed

340km/h

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In the automotive world, Ferrari’s V8 engine is seen as the very epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure. This is particularly the case when it is mid-rear-mounted in a two-seater.

Ferrari has been honing the scope of abilities of this architecture, which creates an optimal weight balance, and thus delivers unparalleled thrillingly sporty driving, to perfection for over four decades.

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasise Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency. The Ferrari F8 Tributo is expected to be on the roads in India by next year and is available through Select Cars, the sole authorised dealership of Ferrari in New Delhi.

AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 17

CAR NEWS

SPORTY NEW TOYOTA FORTUNER TRD LIMITED EDITION AT `34.98 LAKH ONWARD Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the Limited Edition of the Sporty New Fortuner TRD in the Indian market. TKM has leveraged the heritage of Toyota Racing Development (TRD) to bring a sporty appeal to the Fortuner TRD. The Limited Edition is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 Automatic Transmission (diesel) variants in dual-tone stylish exterior, stunning dual-tone dashboard and rugged charcoal black R18 TRD alloy wheels. Bookings for this limited edition Toyota Fortuner are open. In addition to the standard superlative features, the new Sporty New Fortuner TRD offers a range of digital high-tech optional accessories under Special Technology Package which includes features like ‘Head up Display (HUD),Tyre Pressure monitor (TPMS), Digital Video Recorder (DVR), Wireless Smartphone Charger and Welcome door lamp which will further enhance comfort and style. Also, since personal safety a top priority another accessory which is first from Toyota in India is Air Ionizer.

GRADE

EX-SHOWROOM PRICE

4x2 AT Diesel

Rs. 34,98,000

4x4 AT Diesel

Rs. 36,88,000 Ex-showroom price (same across the country except Kerala)

ALL-NEW AUDI RS Q8 BOOKINGS OPEN IN INDIA Audi has commenced bookings for the all-new Audi RS Q8. The fastest series production SUV on the NĂźrburgring, the Audi RS Q8 is the ultimate high-performance machine that boasts outstanding performance, unrestricted everyday usability and a vast customization menu with regard to design and drive. The Audi RS Q8 can be booked with an initial amount of Rs 15 lakh.

The most powerful SUV coupe from the Audi family, the new Audi RS Q8 showcases its genes as a high-performance sports car. The numerous RS design details enhance the independent character of the new top model of the RS family. Powering the Audi RS Q8 is a V8 twin turbo 4.0TFSI engine that propels the SUV from 0-100 in just 3.8 seconds. Customers can book their Audi RS Q8 online (www.audi. in) from the comfort of their home or can register their interest at the nearest Audi India dealership. The Audi India network across the country is equipped to cater to all customisation and personalisation requests.

18 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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CAR NEWS

AUDI RS 7 SPORTBACK DRIVES IN AT `1.94 CRORE Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, has announced the launch of the all-new Audi RS 7 Sportback in India. The Audi RS 7 Sportback is now available as a wide-bodied five-seater and showcases improved performance along with enhanced efficiency delivered by a mild hybrid system. Highly customisable, the Audi RS 7 Sportback is priced from Rs 1.94 crore. Customer deliveries have commenced.

Under the hood is a V8 twin-turbo: 4.0L TFSI petrol heart that produces 600 hp and 800 Nm of torque. At the same time, a 48V mild-hybrid system and cylinder on demand (COD) technology allows the best efficiency. RS adaptive air suspension is standard and Audi’s legendary Quattro system is always at hand to provide traction in all conditions.

Its broad shoulders and distinctive roofline lend the Audi RS 7 Sportback an athletic stance. The 21 inches wheels and RS-specific details such as the oval exhaust pipes and the powered rear spoiler add to the visual appeal. The driver is at the centre of the action with RS displays for the virtual cockpit and a flat-bottomed RS steering wheel with Audi drive select RS1 and RS2 modes.

Offered with five seats for the first time, the Audi RS 7 Sportback brings a new dimension of practicality. Customers can personalise their Audi RS 7 Sportback from a wide menu of trim and equipment options.

The luggage compartment capacity of 535 litres can be increased to as much as 1,390 litres with the split rear seat backs folded down.

The car has a full-bodied V8 growl. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system allows adjustments to sound of the power unit. The Mild Hybrid System (MHEV) comes with a 48-volt main on-board electrical system. The belt alternator starter can recover up to 12 kW power under gentle acceleration and feed it into a lithium-ion battery as electricity. The Cylinder on Demand (COD) technology enhances the efficiency. In higher gears at low to medium loads and engine speeds, 4 cylinders automatically deactivate to minimise fuel consumption. The engine is mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission with optimized shift times. The vehicle comes with quattro permanent all-wheel drive system which includes launch control function. Depending on traction, up to 70 percent drive force can flow to the front wheels and up to 85 percent to the back wheels.

TOYOTA URBAN CRUISER COMPACT SUV BY OCT-NOV 2020 IN INDIA Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has announced that it will be entering the highly competitive compact yet rapidly growing SUV segment in India with its own new compact SUV. Toyota will do a “Glanza” by launching a new compact SUV, a la Brezza, in August 2020. Toyota has named the new compact SUV Toyota Urban Cruiser.

The news of a new compact SUV was confirmed by Naveen Soni, Sr. Vice President, Sales & Service- TKM in a statement. Sources maintained that the new compact SUV will be a cosmetically modified Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza that will be rebadged as the Toyota compact SUV.

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AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 19

CAR NEWS

NISSAN INDIA CHRISTENS STYLISH B-SUV NISSAN MAGNITE Nissan India has revealed the concept version of its sub-4 metre SUV and has christened it the Nissan Magnite. The Magnite B-SUV will be launched in the current financial year. It will directly compete with the likes of the Hyundai Venue, the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and the Mahindra XUV 300. Magnite is a portmanteau of the words “magnetic” and “ignite”. Whereas magnetic highlights the design and the product attributes that will attract customers, ignite emphasises on the beginning of a new era that Nissan wants to bring in India. The Nissan Magnite will be a feature rich premium offering with stylish design for a strong and dynamic road presence, said a company press release.

NEW 2020 ECOSPORT AUTOMATIC VARIANT AT `10.66 LAKH

Ford India has introduced a new automatic variant of its bestselling compact SUV EcoSport, at a special price of Rs 10.66 Lakh (Ex-Showroom Delhi).

The new Ford EcoSport Titanium AT trim offers six-speed, torque converter automatic gearbox that is paired to Ford’s latest, Bharat Stage 6 compliant three-cylinder 1.5L petrol engine. Like the other automatic Titanium+ trim, the new Titanium variant in the 2020 lineup will also be a performance leader, delivering 122 PS of power and 149 Nm of peak torque.

The new EcoSport Titanium Automatic offers several other features including segment-first paddle shifters, cruise control, push start/stop for greater convenience. The variant offers a superior touchscreen infotainment system with embedded navigation, as well as superior safety with standard dual airbags, traction control system, electronic stability control and hill launch, assist among other features. The new variant will also be the only automatic compact SUV in its price range to offer mobility and connectivity solution FordPass, a onestop smartphone app meeting diverse ownership needs, at no additional cost. With a factory-fitted cloud-connected device, owners of the new Titanium trim will be able to perform several vehicle operations -- like starting, stopping, locking or unlocking remotely, via the FordPass app.

20 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

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BIKE NEWS

UPGRADED KTM 250 DUKE LAUNCHED AT `2.09 LAKH KTM, a premium motorcycle brand under Bajaj Auto, has upgraded the KTM 250 Duke. It is now upgraded with aggressively styled full LED headlamp unit with DRL’s, dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode, all new colors– Dark Galvano & Silver Metallic, and one touch start functionality.

The KTM 250 Duke is priced at Rs.2,09,280 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Engine

248.8CC Single Cylinder, 4 Valve, Liquid Cooled, DOHC

Power

30 PS@9,000rpm

Torque

24 Nm@7,500rpm

Clutch

Assist & Slipper

Brakes (Front)

Disc 320m, 4 piston Radial

Brakes (Rear)

Disc 230mm, 1 piston Floating Caliper

ABS

Bosch Two Channel with Supermoto mode

DELIVERIES BEGIN FOR JAWA, JAWA FORTY TWO BSVI MODELS Classic Legends Pvt. Ltd. has begun the delivery of BS-VI models of Jawa and Jawa Forty Two through its dealership network across the country. Classic Legends Pvt. Ltd. is an Indian company established to re-introduce iconic marquee motorcycle brands in the market. Jawa is a motorcycle brand from Czech Republic, erstwhile Czechoslovakia, with a 90-year legacy. While prices for the Jawa BS VI model are in the range of Rs 1.73 lakh to 1.83 lakh ( ex showroom Delhi), the prices of Jawa FortyTwo are in the range of Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 1.74 lakh.

HONDA ANNOUNCES 2020 CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE & FIREBLADE SP Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. announced bookings open for its two brand-new variants CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and Fireblade SP in the super sports category. The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and FirebladeSP will be introduced via the Completely Built-up (CBU) route in India. Revealed at the 2019 EICMA Show in Milan, the 2020 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and Fireblade-SP under Honda’s super sports line-up are the most powerful Honda Fireblade to be ever introduced.

Leaning heavily on the engine and chassis technology of the RC213V-S ‘street-legal MotoGP machine’, with aerodynamics drawn from the RC213V MotoGP machine, both versions of the new Fireblade have been designed from ground up - in terms of engine, handling and aerodynamics - for outright track performance. The Fireblade SP additionally gets second-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) suspension and user interface, New Brembo Stylema brake calipers- 330mm discs with 2-level ABS and a quick shifter.

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AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 21

BIKE NEWS

KTM 390 ADVENTURE AT `6999 PM EMI In the midst of the sluggish demand for motorcycles in the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic, KTM, India’s premium motorcycle brand, announced a new ownership plan on the KTM 390 Adventure. Bikers can now get to own this travelenduro machine for EMIs starting at Rs.6999. The finance plan comprising 80% coverage of the on-the-road price and covering 5 years of ownership is expected to bring the KTM 390 Adventure within the reach of a large number of enthusiasts. The price of KTM 390 Adventure is Ex-Showroom (Delhi) price is Rs. 3,04,000/-. Customers can also avail other finance offers from Bajaj Finance Ltd and HDFC Bank with upto 95% finance coverage, lower interest rates and flexible tenures. Apart from these, the KTM dealerships are also geared to offer exciting exchange schemes for bikers to trade up to the KTM 390 Adventure.

YAMAHA FZ-FI, FZS-FI BS VI VARIANTS LAUNCHED AT `99,200 ONWARD India Yamaha Motor (IYM) has introduced the all new FZ-FI (149 cc) and FZS-FI (149 cc) thus marking the first BS VI variant rollout from the company in India. All colour models of both FZ-FI (149 cc) and FZS-FI (149 cc) will be available in the BS VI line up. Additionally, FZS-FI (149 cc) will have two new colours – Darknight and Metallic Red. The FZS-FI (149 cc) – BS VI compliant, Darknight colour will be available at Rs 102,700, the Metallic Red at Rs 101,200 and Dark Matt Blue, Matt Black, Gray & Cyan Blue at Rs 101,200. The FZ-FI (149 cc) – BS VI compliant, Metallic Black, Racing Blue is priced at Rs 99,200.

Inheriting FZ’s legacy and signature styling, the new FZ-FI and FZS-FI comes with a Blue Core concept driven 149 cc engine with a compression ratio of 9.6:1 and delivering a maximum 12.4 PS power @ 7,250 r/min and 13.6 N.m torque @ 5,500 r/ min. The new FZ-FI and FZS-FI BS VI version will feature single channel ABS in the front wheel and front & rear disc brakes along with negative LCD instrument cluster and a single piece two level seat.

VESPA VXL, SXL FACELIFT 2020 RANGE, NEW APRILIA STORM LAUNCHED Piaggio India launched two new offerings in the market - the iconic Vespa VXL, SXL Facelift 2020 Range and the sporty new Aprilia Storm with disc brake and digital cluster. Vespa VXL and SXL range continues to offer key differentiations like Monocoque full steel Body, vibrant high definition 3 coat body colours, Anti-lock braking system or Combined braking system with twin pot calliper disk brake. The new range is BS6 compliant with clean emission 3 Valve technology Fuel injection engine delivers an enticing performance. Keeping in mind performance and efficiency, the new lifestyle scooter range features Petal design alloy wheels with broad tyres to add comfort and sophistication to the rider. Further, to enhance differentiation, the new 2020 Vespa facelift VXL and SXL range are now equipped with Crystal Illumination LED headlight, Center integrated Day Time Running extra bright beam light, USB mobile charging port and Boot light that combines convenience with style. On the other side, the new Aprilia Storm 125 CC disk brake and digital cluster model redefines the Aprilia Storm experience with the enhancements to 220 mm, twin pot calliper front disc brake and digital cluster that complements its exciting riding experience. The distinctive scooter with cross over build brings Aprilia’s racing spirit through the high performance 3 Valve technology, coupled with BS 6 compliant Fuel injection engine and 12-inch black alloy wheels with wide cross pattern tyres.

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FEATURES

LUXECAMPER

INDIA’S FIRST COMMERCIALLY APPROVED PREMIUM MOTORHOME

Campervan Camps and Holidays India Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru based start-up, has introduced India’s first commercially approved premium Motorhome, LuxeCamper, and offers vacation on wheels to exotic destinations in the country. The LuxeCamper was unveiled by Chief Minister of Karnataka B. S. Yediyurappa.

Built using German design coupled with Indian intelligence, LuxeCamper has received approval from the Automotive Research Association of India (Govt. of India undertaking) as per AIS 124 standards.

These Motorhomes exemplify comfort on the road, with living and sleeping areas designed within a compact space that can accommodate up to 4 people. With a lounge at the rear-end that doubles up as a comfortable queen bed, along with a motorised suspended queen bed at the front, a wardrobe and thermal controls for both heating and cooling, these Motorhomes are the definition of luxury on wheels. Equipped with a fully functional kitchenette, that comes with an induction, stove & gas hobs, toaster, electric kettle, a microwave oven, fridge and freezer, it gives the travellers the freedom to cook hygienic food on-the-go, and relish it in pristine crockery and cutlery.

Powered by rooftop solar panels, the LuxeCampers use solar energy for charging the inverter batteries and powering the equipment, including heating and cooling, making it energy-efficient and environment friendly. Fitted with a stylish skylight, five bi-directional fans, hot/cold shower, modern toilet, 2 smart televisions and thumping Bluetooth music system, it is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. To ensure safety of the traveller, the LuxeCamper is fitted with 360-degree cameras, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, speed governor and a GPS tracker.

These Motorhomes offer panoramic views and provide all luxuries for a fully self-contained holiday, complete with 4G Wi-Fi, 230V a/c power sockets and USB charging points. The excellent facilities include an outdoor barbecue connection, an external shower, a sleek awning with wind sensors, and a bicycle rack, to offer the best-in-class for outdoor camping.

The Bengaluru-based start-up founded by Tiger Ramesh has also built a tech platform that allows guests to choose from a set of recommended trails, as well as, customis and configure their own trails to various destinations.

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FIRST DRIVE

MG HECTOR PLUS

DEFINITELY PLUSH

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Report: Motown India Bureau; Photography: Afsar Baig

T

he Hector Plus is not very different from the popular Hector SUV from the MG Motor India stable. While the Hector, an “Internet Inside” vehicle has caught the fancy of lot of Indians, of late however, its image has got a minor dent thanks to the silly call to “boycott Chinese products”. Even sillier is the fact that some people call MG Motor India products “Chinese products”.

To set the record straight, MG Motor India has a British lineage through UK based Morris Garages, has the backing of China’s largest auto company SAIC and operates completely as an Indian company.

has been done away with. Instead, the Hector Plus gets a chrome studded front grille now. Then there are now stylish new headlamps, new front and rear bumpers, new rear tail light design, and revised skid plates.

It has its own manufacturing plant in Halol in Gujarat and empowers almost an equal number of Indian men and women at its plant. It has its own corporate office in Gurugram in North India. That, I guess makes the company 100 per cent Indian.

The new Hector Plus has floating light turn indicators, LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED front and rear fog lamps, LED tail lamps, turn indicators on ORVMs. It also has heated ORVMs, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers and shark fin antenna. Thus, despite the vehicle have a 65mm extension, it still looks elegant and smart. It stands tall on 215/60 R 17 alloy wheels.

EXTERIORS Compared to the Hector, the Hector Plus is as tall and as wide and even has a similar wheelbase. But what has changed is the length of the vehicle. The Plus is 65mm more than the Hector and this is because of the changes in the front bumper. A lot of chrome that surrounded the grille area and the headlamp cluster etc

SPECIFICATIONS PETROL

PETROL HYRBID

LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT (MM) WHEELBASE (MM)

2750

KERB WEIGHT (KGS)

1739

GROUND CLEARANCE (MM)

192

BOOT SPACE (3 ROW FOLDED)

530 litres

BOOT SPACE (3 ROWS UP)

155 litres

rd

FUEL TANK CAPACITY ENGINE

60 litres 1.5 litre turbocharged intercooled

DISPLACEMENT MAX TORQUE (NM @ RPM) TYRE & WHEEL

2.0 litre turbocharged diesel 1956

141hp@ 5000

168@ 3750

250@1600-3600

350@1750-2500

DCT

6MT

6MT

215/60 R 17 alloys, Spare wheel 215/60 R 17 steel

FRONT & REAR BRAKES SUSPENSION

1.5 litre turbocharged intercooled with belt 1451

MAX POWER (HP@RPM) TRANSMISSION

DIESEL

4720 x 1835 x 1760

Disc Front: Mcpherson strut with stabiliser bar Rear: Semi independent helical spring torsion beam

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INTERIORS The vehicle comes with six-way power adjustable driver seat and 4 way power adjustable co-driver seat for top variant except in hybrid variant.

Not to be missed is the dual panel panoramic sunroof. But what is really plus in the new Hector Plus are the two captain seats in the second row

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and two seats for kids at the third row.

But because the company has carved out an extra row of seats in the Hector Plus, the boot space is compromised and it’s only 155 litres. But if you were to bring down the last row seats you get a massive 530 litres of boot space.

The captain seats, I feel, could have better (broader) arm rests. The third row for children gets dedicated aircon vents and blower control. The seats are made of faux leather, with a sepia brown colour. The same material is used sparingly on the dash as well as the door trims.

The vehicle has 8 colour ambient lighting10.4 inches touch screen, 7 inches coloured MID with navigation, music, calling and TPMS inputs. The new MG Hector Plus comes with the latest version of the i-Smart that offers on the go connectivity. It has 55+ connected features. The 10.4 inches touch screen remains the one that was in the Hector. Remember it has over 100 + voice commands activated by saying “Hello MG” for hand free control.

Now the Hector Plus comes with a chit chat feature that allows you to have pleasant conversation with your MG. I personally felt it was a bit juvenile in nature. This chit chat feature involved a handful of questions and a set of answers that are permanent in style and content. Thus, if you want to chit chat beyond the preset questions, you will find no answers. This is a feature that makes not sense.

The Hector Plus also gets what is

known as a smart swipe where the tailgate can be opened with a single swipe of your foot.

mounted audio controls, steering wheel that can be adjusted for tilt and reach, add to the joy of being in the vehicle.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

When you are driving the vehicle you do notice the very apparent turbo lag in the vehicle. You notice it when you accelerate at lower speeds, trying to pick up speed. But the transition to higher speeds happens almost immediately and it’s really not a negative point against the vehicle. Of course, for those really impatient drivers, there is always the Sport Mode to shift to where you can manually control your gear changes to a certain extent.

The Hector Plus is being offered in both petrol as well as diesel models. The petrol engine is a 1.5 litre turbocharged intercooled machine while the diesel engine is a 2 litre turbocharged machine. There is also a petrol hybrid model that again has the same 1.5 litre turbocharged intercooled with belt engine. This model is powered by a 48V hybrid system that works in combination of petrol and electric drive. This battery powered system increases fuel efficiency and reduces co2 emissions has functions like regenerative braking, e-boost for great driving experience, engine idle auto start/stop system. While the hybrid engine and the diesel come with 6 speed manual transmission, the non hybrid petrol model which we were driving comes with DCT. Besides, the models come in four variants: Style, Super, Smart and Sharp, the Sharp being the top variant. We got to drive the Petrol model that is mated to an automatic DCT transmission.

What is almost perfect about the Hector Plus is the cabin comfort it offers. While on the move you get to appreciate is suspension which is perfectly tuned for the rough and the smooth. The NVH levels are well under control and you get a very quiet cabin when you are driving. Premium sound

by Infinity, android auto and apple car play, 8 speakers and tweeters, steering

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There is no compromise too on the safety front for the Hector Plus. It comes with 6 airbags, disc brakes on all four wheels, auto headlamps and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, 360 deg camera, electronic stability programme (ESP) traction control system (TCS), hill hold control, tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS + EBD +Brake Assist, Electronic Parking Brake. Priced at Rs 13.49 lakh to Rs 18.54 lakh, The Hector Plus is around Rs 65000 more than regular Hector.

VERDICT The Hector Plus is very much a plush version of the Hector. Though the wheelbase of the Hector and the Hector Plus are identical, what MG Motor India has managed to do is to rearrange the cabin space and make it more practical.

The choice is yours now, you want those captain seats and the third row, then the Hector Plus is your only choice.

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FIRST DRIVE

2020 HONDA CITY FIRST DRIVE

CITY CHAMPION

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Report: P. Tharyan & Farhan Khan; Photography: Afsar Baig

SPECIFICAT IO NS ENGINE 1.5L i-VTEC DOHC with VTC (Variable Valve Timing Control) petrol TRANSMISSION CVT POWER 120hp @ 6600rpm TORQUE 145Nm@ 4300 rpm FUEL TANK CAPACITY 40 litres TYRES Tubeless radial 185/55 R16

F

or generations, the Honda City has been keeping families all over the world happy with what it had to offer in terms of styling, comfort, performance and reliability. Now it’s the turn of the all-new 5th Generation Honda City to take on the baton for Honda Cars India. It will be competing directly with the likes of the popular Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and the Hyundai Verna.

it does give a longish look to the car.

Body coloured door handles come with tiny buttons for the front doors that lock and unlock the car, with the keys in your pocket. These are basically touch sensor based smart keyless access entry.

Each time you lock and unlock, the ORVMs mounted on door skin, fold and unfold respectively. The car sits on 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels which have a Shark Gray paint two-tone appearance.

Must say it is quite sporty to look at.

PRICE `14.44 lakh (ex showroom India)

And to do that it’s changed into the longest and widest sedan in its segment. Yes, the 2020 Honda City is bigger in dimensions. Not only that it has an ASEAN N-CAP 5 Star rating equivalent when it comes to safety.

When you move to the rear, you get to see the Z Shaped 3D wraparound LED tail lamp with LED side marker lamps

EXTERIORS

INTERIORS:

Let’s start with its external features.

The car is now 4549mm in length, 1748 mm in width and 1489mm in height. It has a wheel base of 2600mm. The car overall has very sharp design lines. The front grill area reminds you of the Amaze and Civic from the Honda family.

Coming to the interiors, they do look plush. The beige and black tone for the interiors gives the car a very uber look and feel from inside.

There are no electrically adjusted buttons for your driver seat or the one next to it. Everything is manual here. The seats by themselves are very comfortable and give ample thigh and lumbar support. The side bolstering too is good. The seats are leather ones and have a very nice design about them. The door trims come with soft pads.

The headlamp cluster has DRLs integrated with the solid wing face, full LED headlamps with 9 LED array inline shell, integrated LED DRL and L shaped LED turn signal. These headlamps are follow-me-home / lead-me-to-car headlamps with auto off timer. The fog lamps are projector ones and LED. The side profile of the vehicle is elegant and

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The dashboard is of high quality with real stitch soft pad and woody garnish. There is an 8 inches advanced touchscreen display

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audio, a click-feel AC dial with Red/ Blue Illumination, high quality leather steering wheel & and shift lever and soft interior ambient lighting in front footwell and map lamp with LED interior room lamps. The steering wheel can be adjusted for reach and tilt. The steering wheel has several buttons mounted on it. On the right are the cruise control buttons while on your left are the volume buttons, the buttons to make and receive calls. There is also a segment first feature called the Steering Mounted Commander Scroll Switch.

Since we were driving the 1.5 litre petrol i-vtec vehicle with cvt, there were paddle shifters too on the steering. On the right side of the steering along with the lever for indicator, there is a lane watch camera button.

When it is pressed you can see the view on the

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left of your vehicle which is basically a blind spot and since there is a camera mounted on the left ORVM, it captures this blind spot while turning your car towards the left. The image comes clear on your 8 inches touch screen on the dash. This is a very helpful and meaningful feature.

The car has a large 7 inches high definition full colour TFT meter for multi-function

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driver information interface like trip meter, real-time fuel efficiency, digital speed and an innovative G-meter. This G-meter is basically the meter that measures the G-force and depending how hard you accelerate and corner, the G-force measurement shifts from 0.5G to the more aggressive 1.2G. Though we did not test this because of paucity of time, this feature is already there in models like the Honda Civic.

But just for record’s sake you should realise that Formula One drivers usually experience 5 g while braking, 2 g while accelerating, and 4 to 6 g while cornering, according to information available on the net.

The moment you press the power on button, you get to see the two large circular dials for the tachometer and speedometer, apart from digital information like fuel level, speed, temperature, odometer, hand brake indication and seat belt indication. The tachometer dial further displays information like distance to fuel, average fuel consumption, trip meter reading, speed and time, G-meter, customise display etc. All this information can be seen with the help of the commander scroll switch.

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Coming to the rear seat, these can seat three slim adults and there is an arm rest that can be put to use when two people are seated. The arm rest has two cup holders too. Separate AC blowers at the rear make a great sense for people seated there, especially in hot climes. For the third person sitting in the middle, there is a 3 point seat belt, very unlike a waste band like safety belt provided for the middle seat in many sedans.

The car comes with a rear sun shade.

There are plenty of

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storage spaces in the car, with each of the door pockets accommodating a 1 litre bottle, the arm rest in front having space to store knick knacks and front seat back pockets. Near the hand brake you get slots to keep you mobile phones, there is a large glove box with a tiny storage space next to it. The boot of the car has 506 litres of space.

multiple functions such as Auto Crash Notification & Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Tracking, Security Alert, Geo-Fence Alert and many more.

to forget your time date and day. It also doubles up as your navigation screen.

With the help of the setting button you can set a plethora of function.

The 8 inches touch screen infotainment system can help you select and adjust your radio, USB/ iPod, Bluetooth audio, phone, apps and not

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE: The new Honda City will be offered in both petrol and diesel BS-6 engine options: The newly introduced 1.5L

The 2020 Honda City comes with a Push Start/ Stop button for engine. It has an electrical trunk lock with keyless release, Walkaway Auto Lock which is a segment first and remote Engine Start.

Not to be missed is the electrically operated sun roof.

For the gizmo friendly, tech guys out there, it would be heartening for them as Honda City is India’s First connected car with Alexa remote capability. This lets customers conveniently interact with their car right from the comfort of their homes. The car is equipped with Next Generation Honda Connect with Telematics Control Unit that offers over 32 connected features. Customers can obtain a variety of information such as vehicle position and door lock status from a remote location. It also offers

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i-VTEC DOHC with VTC (Variable Valve Timing Control) petrol engine delivers decent fuel efficiency, low emission and spirited driving performance.

The engine will be offered with an all new 6 speed manual transmission and new 7 speed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with “full-open acceleration step up-shift control” and “brake operation step down-shift control” for reduced rubber-band effect. We got to drive the 1.5L i-VTEC DOHC with VTC variant that comes with a CVT, There is also a 1.5L i-DTEC diesel engine that comes with a 6 speed manual transmission with new sliding mesh type reverse gear for improved quietness.

technology, the drive is smooth and jerk free. The cabin is quiet and the NVH levels are close to perfection. The suspension is on the softer side but I have no qualms about it. It is perfect.

The sport mode reveals the true power of the engine as the vehicle becomes a lot more aggressive in nature. Of course, you want to control all the gear changes, you can start using the paddle shifters in this sport mode.

Paddle shifters come handy when you want to hold the car in a particular gear for more power (like going up a hill) or coming down a steep road, or you want to drive faster or more aggressively.

Paddle shifters are typically the manual way of driving an automatic car. Else

In the Eco mode your car is not as aggressive as it is in the sport mode, because the ultimate purpose of Eco is to give you the best possible mileage. It’s best used when you want your driving to be sedate and pleasant. There is no apparent rubberband effect which is usually the only drawback of a cvt. Thanks to improved

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the normal D mode and the S mode are good driving modes.

This model of the new Honda City comes with a lot of safety features.

Apart from the fact that this car is ASEAN N-CAP 5-star safety rating equivalent, it is made of an ultra high tensile strength steel frame, has 6 airbags – Dual Front SRS airbags, Front seat Side airbags and Side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist with Agile Handling Assist, Hill Start Assist , tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Lane Watch Camera, etc.

VERDICT The new Honda City is now a lot contemporary in all respects, whether it is styling, cabin comfort, utilities, engine performance, suspension and braking. But the real icing on the cake are the tech features incorporated in the car, whether it is the infotainment system related, the safety or the performance of the engine. It’s now ready to rule the streets once again, the Honda City way! Let’s call it the City Champion.

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2020 HYUNDAI CRETA

SPORTY & TECH SAVVY

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S P EC I F I C ATIO NS ENGINE 1.5 L (1493cc) U2 CRDI Diesel (BS VI) TRANSMISSION 6-speed MT POWER 113hp@4000rpm TORQUE 247Nm@1500-2750rpm FUEL TANK CAPACITY 50 litres TYRES 215/60 R17 (alloy wheels) PRICE `14.51 lakh (ex showroom India)

Report: Motown India Bureau; Photography: Afsar Baig

T

he 2020 Hyundai Creta was launched in March 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic was just beginning to raise its ugly head across India. A lockdown followed in April and no vehicle manufacturer was able to sell its products as all showrooms across the country were shut. It took us another month for us to get the car to review.

The 2020 Hyundai Creta has three BS VI engine options. There is a 1.5 litre MPI petrol engine which has two transmission choices, a 6 speed manual and an automatic IVT. Then there is a 1.4 litre Turbo GDI petrol engine mated to a 7 speed DCT. You also get a 1.5 litre U2 CRDi Diesel engine which has a choice of a 6-speed manual as well as automatic transmission. We got to drive the 1.5 litre diesel model with a 6-speed manual transmission.

EXTERIORS The new Creta has a new signature face with cascading grille. The new Creta comes with trio-beam LED head lamps and crescent glow LED DRLs. The side profile continues to have a

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sporty touch to it. It reminds you of the earlier model of the Creta. Now you get to see a dual tone here. The blue coloured car we were driving had a dash of silver running as a thin stripe over the window line and almost covering the C pillar. Hyundai calls it the lightening arch C Pillar The vehicle sits on 17 inches smart alloy wheels. Both the front and the rear tyres come with disc brakes.

As you move to the rear, you will notice there are changes here too. You get to see new, LED tail lamps and aerodynamic rear spoiler. The roof rails, shark fin antenna, panoramic sunroof (this is voice enabled too) and the skid plates add to the sporty and rugged looks of the vehicle.

INTERIORS The Creta now has premium interiors and spacious cabin with comfortable seating.

Interior colour themes feature a combination of 2 tone black & greige. For those who have not heard of the word “greige�, it basically means a colour between beige and grey. It has plush

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leatherette upholstery. Other features include a 10.25 inches HD Infotainment with BlueLink, 7 inches supervision cluster with digital display, Bose Premium Sounds System (8 Speakers), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a sporty D-Cut Steering (the steering which comes with several controls can be adjusted for tilt but is not telescopic), Android Auto, Apple car play compatibility, etc. The cabin comes with a blue ambient lighting. There is also an auto healthy air purifier. The air purifier which is fitted somewhere on the front arm rest area, can be controlled via the touchscreen as well as from the unit itself. Charging points in front (o the dashboard towards the floor console) include a 12 V/ 18oW

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point, as well as two USB slots, one of them being a high speed one for mobiles.

There is also a wireless mobile phone charger too but for that your mobile phone needs to be compatible to the Qi technology. On the floor console, one gets the electronic parking brake button with auto hold which is a very useful function on hilly terrains.

The new Creta has Advanced Blue Link that offers over 50 connectivity features.

Customers can now experience voice enabled functions by just saying ‘Hello Blue Link’ to control essential vehicle features.

The Blue Link connectivity gives

freedom to remotely start engine for AT as well as MT (1st in Industry feature).

Thus, you can start your vehicle through this blue link app on your mobile / touch screen, lock and unlock your car, set the cabin temperature, etc. Even the buttons on your auto dimming inside rear view mirror provide functions like SOS, Towing and BlueLink app functions. The 10.25 inches system also provides a plethora of functions via the BlueLink. There’s more for the customer with the Blue Link Integrated smart watch app.

For all internet related functions, a SIM card is a must and thus the car comes with a SIM card which is tucked away inside the vehicle and the service for the

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A driving experience

same is provided free of charge for around three years by the company.

The air within the cabin can also get a fragrance with the help of the touch screen function.

The drive seat can be electrically adjusted. You get an 8-way adjustment.

The front seats are also ventilated. When it comes to storage spaces within the cabin, there are plenty. It has a cooled glove box.

It has a personalised second row with 2 step reclining seat, window sunshade, seat headrest cushion, USB charger, LED reading lamps and centre armrest. The arm rest has cup holders too. The second row gets dedicated air vents. In the SX

shifts smooth.

model we were driving, the rear seats have a 60:40 split.

PERFORMANCE The Creta comes with a start/stop button.

The diesel engine is quite responsive and the moment you step on the accelerator, it gets moving fast. Though it has slightly less power that the earlier 1.3 litre diesel engine, I felt the power was adequate, especially when it goes beyond 1500 rpm.

The steering I felt was light and the gear

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The cabin insulation too is adequate and all unwanted noise from outside is kept at bay. The suspension, I felt was well tuned for city roads and absorbs unwanted bumps on the road with a lot of confidence. The vehicle scores decent on the safety front as it comes with only two airbags. Six airbags come only in the top variant. But one can take solace from the fact that features like Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, disc brakes, ISOFIX, rear camera with steering adaptive parking guidelines, etc are available in the SX variant. All in all, the new 2020 Creta scores on the technology as well as looks front.

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TRACTOR REVIEW

POLARIS SPORTSMAN 570 TRACTOR

TILLING THE LAND IN STYLE

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Report: P. Tharyan & Farhan Khan; Photography: Afsar Baig

A

ll Terrain Vehicles (ATV) champions Polaris India launched the Sportsman 570 tractor a few months back. Yes, you read it right, it is a tractor and not an ATV, though it has all the distinct looks of the latter. We drove it to find out what this little tractor offers for those interested in tilling their land. This tractor is unconventional; more like an ATV and is Polaris India’s first road legal vehicle in India.

With a maximum weight capacity of 345 kgs, this Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor has undergone several tweaks in order to distinguish itself from an ordinary ATV. These include fine tuning of the suspension and ground clearance. It is definitely sporty looking.

FEATURES The front looks bold and smart with its two dual beams on bumper (50/60 watt), 1 single beam on headlight pod (50 watt) and 2 single beam on bumper (50 watt).

With an electric starting system, this vehicle has a ground clearance of 28cm. The tractor has a length of 83 inches, a height and width of 48 inches each and a wheel base of 50.5 inches.

With switches on both sides of the handle bar, it has a large digital screen that displays a lot of information like speed, mode, time, etc.

The Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor is a petrol driven vehicle that is powered by a dual overhead cam, 4 valve 4 stroke

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single cylinder engine with a displacement of 567cc. The engine produces a peak power of 34hp. The tractor comes with electronic power steering, independent suspension, 4 wheel drive on demand and automatic transmission. It has a minimum turning radius of 165cm unloaded.

The fuel capacity is 17 litres with an engine oil capacity of 1.9 litres and a coolant capacity of 2.5 litres. The vehicle comes with an electronic fuel injection. While the front suspension consists of MacPherson strut with 21 cm travel, the rear suspension comprises progressive rate with 24cm travel. The hand brake is a single control hydraulic disc while the foot brake is a foot-activated hydraulic disc. The parking brake is a transmission park lock and hydraulic lock all wheel.

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S P EC IFICATIO NS ENGINE 567cc, Dual overhead cam, 4 valve, 4 stroke single cylinder POWER 34hp MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY 345kg STARTING SYSTEM Electric FUEL SYSTEM Electronic fuel injection DRY WEIGHT (+/- 7 %) 191 kg (includes operator, cargo, accessories, tongue weight ) SUSPENSION Front: MacPherson strut with 21cm travel Rear: Progressive rate with 24 cm travel.

HAND BRAKE Single-control hydraulic disc FOOT BRAKE Foot-activated hydraulic disc

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A driving experience

PERFORMANCE Now let me come to the drive experience.

To begin with, Polaris insists that we wear a helmet while driving this tractor. They are very particular about it. In the blazing sun with temperatures of more than 40 deg C, the helmet and the riding jacket proved too uncomfortable for us. And by the way, which farmer, rich or poor, do you think will wear a helmet to till his land or orchard or whatever? I found that pretty weird. Maybe in cold climes, this would make sense, but in hot Indian climes, this is almost hara-kiri!

Accessories that can be used with the tractor include pesticide sprayer, cultivator, disc harrow and utility cart.

These can be connected easily with the Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor. While attaching these accessories is kind of easy, it is a bit tiring using them, especially when you want to adjust the

disc harrow and the cultivator to dig into the soil. This has to be done manually as hydraulics are not provided here. But since it is a four wheel drive with option of a high and low gear, cutting through tough soil comes easy. When the vehicle is on plain tarmac, you can disengage the 4wd option and use the 4x2 which will ensure better fuel efficiency for the vehicle.

This tractor is ideal for use in narrow farmlands, orchards and other cramped spaces. And when you are not in the mood to use it as a tractor you can actually detach the accessories and use it on the road or off road as an ATV for some real fun. At this point I would definitely insist that you wear your helmet and your riding gear for an adventure.

We found the Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor a compact powerhouse with great

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ability to maneuver in tight spaces. With reasonably good torque, the engine is strong enough to pull the machine out of the most stubborn soil, not to mention its ability as a great off roader in its stand-alone version. With characteristics of an ATV and the prowess of a tractor, the Polaris Sportsman 570 tractor is a perfect machine for the modern farmer.

The icing on the cake is of course the road legal nature of the product.

But the question is when mini tractors in India are available at prices around Rs 3 to 5 lakh, who would really buy this tractor at Rs 8 lakh or so? It is here that the age old status symbol purchasing kicks in. People buy their Maruti Altos, and people also buy their Audis and Beamers.

For the well heeled and those believing in haute couture, the Polaris Sportsman 570 is the perfect product! There is no better way of tilling your land in style!

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WHEELZ & ROADZ A riding experience

2020 TVS APACHE RR 310 BS VI

WIRED FOR PERMORMANCE

Report: P. Tharyan; Photography: Afsar Baig

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he TVS Apache RR 310 has been very close to our hearts.

Ever since it was launched a couple of years back, we have ridden it on the race tracks of Chennai, we have taken in to the Morni hills on the foothills of the Himalayas, we have also ridden it in the rains. We loved the 312.2cc single cylinder / engine that generated a peak power of 34hp @ 9700rpm and a peak torque of 27.3Nm@ 7700 rpm.

The engine was mated to a 6-speed transmission. The 2020 RR 310 is identical to the 2019 model in terms

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A riding experience

S P EC IFIC ATIO N S ENGINE 312.2cc single cylinder / 4 stroke,/ 4 valves/ liquid cooled (BS VI) TRANSMISSION 6-speed PEAK POWER 34hp @ 9700rpm PEAK TORQUE 27.3Nm@ 7700 rpm FUEL EFFICIENCY 34 kmpl TYRES Front: 110/70- ZR17 Rear: 150/60- ZR17

PRICE `2.4 lakh (ex showroom India)

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of engine, chassis, suspension, brakes, and even power the engine produces. The new engine is, however a BS VI one.

Though this bike always came with a slipper clutch which is an ideal feature for a performance bike, it lacked a few basic things and we did emphasise on it. Let’s check out what the new bike has to offer.

FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY Since on the face of it there seems to be no changes to this bike, this new 2020 TVS Apache RR 310 does get a new colour scheme. Earlier the bike was offered in Racing Red and Sinister Black colours, but now you continue to get the Racing Red colour with a white racing stripe, the other colour is Titanium Black. The dual-tone scheme has gloss black on the fairing and rear section along with matte grey on the tank and front fairing.

Earlier the windshield was one fixed piece but now it is detachable. The windshield can be detached with the help of an Allen key which is provided by the company. This means it is easier to clean it the windshield now.

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A riding experience

The 2020 TVS Apache RR 310 gets Michelin Road 5 tyres which is supposed to be good even in wet conditions. The bike has however got heavier by 4.5 kg with a kerb weight of 174 kg.

The new 2020 TVS Apache RR 310 gets a few fresh technology changes that is more than welcome. It now gets a ride by wire technology. Earlier the accelerator was connected via a cable to the throttle body. In simple terms, the ride by wire refers to the absence of mechanical linkage between accelerator and throttle.

Instead, various sensors and actuators (connected by wires) control the fuelair supply going to the engine.

There is no cable connection between accelerator and throttle.

In this system, when rider twists the accelerator, actuators in the electronic throttle body sense this

movement and change the throttle opening accordingly.

In fuel injected engines, the throttle body is the part of the air intake system that controls the amount of air flowing into the engine, in response to accelerator. By allowing more air to go into the engine, you allow more fuel too which is done through fuel injectors controlled electronically. For gasoline fuel, the stoichiometric air–fuel mixture is about 14.7:1 i.e. for every one gram of fuel, 14.7 grams of air are required.

Another thing that is new in the 2020 TVS Apache RR 310 BS VI is the 5 inches TFT screen, which replaces the old vertical speedo-cum-tachometer.

The brightness of this TFT screen is automatically adjusted and even the night mode can easily be switched into. You get three types of trip meters.

The trip data is also exhaustive like you can get to know Distance Covered,

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WHEELZ & ROADZ

A riding experience

on. While Urban and Rain modes give you a monitored kind of ride feel, where a small red light on the screen goads you to change to higher gears, the experience is smooth and linear.

I really did not feel any disturbing vibration in any gear. Also keep in mind that in the urban mode you are not restricted on speed in anyway. There is enough power to see you well past the 100kmph mark in a jiffy.

Average Speed, Total Time Travelled, Top Speed, fuel consumed, Average Mileage, etc. Through this screen you can also set a plethora of functions that is given in the widget list. Objects that have been added to dashboards are called widgets. You can manage the widgets with these switches on the left side of the handlebar. Interestingly, you can start your lap time by tugging at the high beam low beam button.

And the good news is that now we get four riding modes. These are Rain, Urban, Sport and Track. One can toggle between the different modes on this screen with the help of switches. But one thing you need to remember, while toggling between the different modes, you need to minimise your throttle or the mode would simply not change. To give you a practical example, when you are riding in a particular mode, you cannot change to another ride mode unless you twist back your accelerator to the base level.

The TFT screen offers a different kind of display for each ride mode. These unique ride modes are segment first features.

Depending on the mode you set the bike in, you can experience slow speed crawling (in traffic conditions), acceleration, fuel economy, braking, safety and stability.

Peak Power and torque too is controlled in these different riding modes. Though

the peak power the engine produces is 34hp and peak torque is 27.3Nm, in the Rain and Urban modes the peak Power is 25.8hp while peak Torque is 25Nm. In sport and track mode, you unleash the beast in this machine.

Also remember, in the Track Mode while it unleashes the full power, it minimises the ABS response for late braking into corners with confidence and ease. In urban mode so as to maintain linear acceleration and deceleration, the ABS is optimised for a quick response with minimal lever pulsation in the Rain Mode, the ABS deliver the maximum response with a strong lever pulsation feel.

The sport Mode allows sharp acceleration and optimised ABS response.

In the track and sport mode, the red light comes on at very high rpms.

I guess the system is tuned in such a way, it knows that in such modes the rider is bound to rev up the engine a lot more than in a normal kind of riding.

Similarly, I could also feel the varying response of the ABS kicking in these different modes.

Now, there is no denying the fact that the 2020 TVS Apache RR310 BS 6 is a wonderful sport bike to ride, but the flip side is that it could get a tad uncomfortable on a long journey. Since the handlebar and the positioning of the rider are such that on long journeys it could result in the rider developing a bit of wrist pain or even a back strain. But giving a counter argument, continuous riding on the bike can even strengthen your back or make your wrists stronger! The rider can look at this as a new exercise and like all new exercises, one needs to endure some pain in the beginning.

The 11 litre fuel tank capacity should have also been a bit more.

The Bluetooth enabled SmartXonnect system with mobile app offers multiple data points on post ride analysis, race telemetry including riding pattern, best lap time, turn-by-turn navigation, call functionality etc. For the gadget lovers, there is plenty to explore.

PERFORMANCE & VERDICT Since we rode the bike on normal roads, we tested it for the different riding modes.

The full potential of a track mode can only be exploited on a track. I was able to experience the different riding modes on the long stretch of road that I rode

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DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1260 ENDURO

POWERFUL GIANT Report: Motown India Bureau; Photography: Afsar Baig

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he Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro which we were riding was not a BS VI model, rather the one before that.

Thanks to the covid pandemic, all big global motorcycle makers are just beginning to introduce their BS VI models in the country. But then again, BS VI is just an engine with a cleaner emission.

So how do I describe this tall machine? Words like intimidating, mammoth, powerful, scary, come to your mind, the moment you get closer to it. And when you are seated on it, you wonder why God did not make you 6 foot 2 inches tall. Yes, I feel this machine is ideal for tall muscular people, but what if you are couple of inches less than 6 feet? Well, I am a couple of inches short of 6 feet and I must tell you it was just fun riding this very intimidating machine. It just gets better and better when you get the right ground to ride it and your fears seem to dissipate as the wheels keep moving. As for the sound emanating from the exhaust, it’s kind of very no nonsense and not irritatingly loud and boisterous.

First and foremost, this big motorcycle is obviously a pain if you are to ride it in choc a bloc traffic. The engine gets warm and handling the big machine in thick of traffic can tire you out completely.

The Ducati Testastretta desmodromic variable time (DVT) 1262 L-Twin cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder, dual spark, liquid cooled engine produces a peak power of

158hp@9500 rpm and a peak torque of 128Nm @7500rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission.

With a wheelbase 1592mm, the bike comes with signature LED headlamps, tubeless spoked wheels and deep scooped seats. It has a kerb weight of 254 kg. Compared to its predecessor, the handlebar height of this model has been reduced by 30m. The standard seat height is 860mm, but one can adjust it anywhere between 840 to 880mm. The suspension travel has also gone down by 15mm in front. The front suspension consists of 48mm fully adjustable USD while the rear consists of fully adjustable monoshock.

These are electronically adjusted.

The vehicle comes with 120/70-19 tyres in front and 170/60-ZR17 tyres at the rear. The brakes in front comprise of 320mm dual discs while rear it has a 245mm disc This bike comes loaded with electronics. It offers four riding modes like Urban, Touring, Sport, and Enduro, with each mode adjusting the suspension for the task ahead. It has 8 level traction control.

The torque delivery is steady and full even in low revs and these result in a sporty performance from the word go.

The 5 inches high resolution TFT screen is clear with its display even when the sun is at its brightest phase.

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SP EC I F I C ATIO NS ENGINE Ducati Testastretta DVT 1262 L-Twin cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder, dual spark, liquid cooled, Desmodromic variable timing TRANSMISSION 6 speed with up/ down Ducati quick shift DQS

POWER 158 hp @ 9,500 rpm TORQUE 128 Nm@ 7,500 rpm FUEL TANK CAPACITY 30 litres TYRES Front: 120/70-19 Rear: 170/60-ZR17

PRICE `20.23 lakh (ex showroom India)

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A driving experience

The screen can be used for adjusting a host of settings pertaining to the bike. The switch on the left of the handlebar is used to toggle through these settings.

Long stretches of highways is when you get to test the Urban, Touring and Sport modes.

The machine adjusts its response according to the mode you choose. For example, in Urban mode, you get it to behave like any other bike, wading through traffic, in Sport mode, it gets aggressive and that’s when you can actually try out the up and down quick shifter.

The up/down Ducati quick shift or DQS is now there is in most of the Ducati bikes. Developed by the Ducato Corsa, the company’s racing division, this feature has moved to the superbike family that includes the Panigale, Multistrada, Monster and Diavel.

The DQS basically enables clutchless use of gears. This feature is best used when you are in the sport mode and you really want to speed up. The Touring mode is ideal for those long stretches of highways and it is here that

features like cruise control make a lot of sense.

The bike behaved perfect during these long road journeys and the tyres fitted on the bike too were meant for the road. So did that mean we had to skip Enduro? No way, even with these tyres, we took the bike on some tough trails and that meant lots of fun to experience. In Enduro mode, the machine behaves very different and very confident.

The strong off road kind of foot pegs give you a sturdy platform to stand and feel the adrenalin rushing in. All the intimidating girth suddenly vanishes and you are in absolute harmony with the big machine. The tubeless spoked wheels add to the confident nature of the bike.

The Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro is not a bike for every Tom Dick and Harry,

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rather it’s only for those with a real heart for adventure and touring. And for those who are terribly intimidated by the tall stance of this motorcycle, there are many bikes out there in the 300cc to sub 1000cc range. You can reach out for them and leave the 1260 for the real men and women amongst you.

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B2B COVER REPORT

RIP 2020

INDIAN AUTO INDUSTRY Report: ROY P. THARYAN

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B2B COVER REPORT

this outstanding achievement in meeting BS VI emission norms despite facing huge challenges of technology, time and resources.”

The Indian auto industry, however, did not have a great 2019. Sales declined month after month, though there were several glimmers of hope when it came to certain products and segments within the auto industry. But still, in spite of the gloom, companies were devising strategies to keep their bottom lines intact and their turnovers decent. In 2019, nobody had any clue of a virus that went by the name of COVID-19.

The sale of passenger vehicles declined by (-) 16.40 percent in April-December 2019 over the same period in 2018. Within the passenger vehicles, the sales for passenger cars and vans declined by (-) 23.59 percent and (-) 37.31 percent respectively in April-December 2019 over the same period in the previous year, while the sale of utility vehicle increased by 6.35 percent ( a glimmer of hope).

There were several reasons for a bad performance for the Indian auto industry. The country’s GDP growth was at a six year low, with the manufacturing and construction sector struggling. There were no GST benefits on IC engine vehicles. Because of the erratic rains and changing weather patterns, substantial Rabi crops were damaged resulting in low rural sentiments. One of the biggest challenges for the industry was also to move from BS IV emission norms to BS VI emission norms from April 1, 2020, skipping the BS V level completely.

Despite the several impediments, the industry did manage to move to BS VI levels and as Rajan Wadhera, President SIAM stated in April 2020, “It is unprecedented anywhere in the world to switch to such stringent emission regime on one single day, for all categories of vehicles including, Two-Wheelers, Three-Wheelers, Passenger Vehicles, Trucks and Buses. I do compliment my fellow industry colleagues for

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THE DE-GROWTH STARTED IN 2019 But then coming back to 2019, the Indian auto industry till December 2019 (April-December) showed all signs of a negative trend. The industry produced a total 20,736,410 vehicles including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, three wheelers, two wheelers and quadricycle in April-December 2019 as against 23,853,770 in April-December 2018, registering a de-growth (-) 13.07 per cent over the same period in 2018, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) stated.

The overall commercial vehicles segment registered a decline of (-) 21.09 percent in April- December 2019 as compared to the same period in 2018. Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M& HCVs) declined by (-) 36.69 percent and Light Commercial Vehicles declined by (-) 11.34 percent in April-December 2019 over the same period in the previous year. Three Wheelers sales declined by (-) 2.70 percent in April-December 2019 over the same period in 2018. Two Wheelers sales registered a degrowth of (-) 15.80 percent in April-December 2019 over April- December 2018. Within the Two Wheelers segment, scooters, motorcycles and mopeds declined by (-) 16.16 percent, (-) 15.04 percent and (-) 25.10 percent respectively in April-December 2019 over AprilDecember 2018. The only other glimmer of hope during this period was that in April-December 2019, overall automobile exports grew by 3.86 percent whereas passenger vehicles and two wheelers exports grew by 5.89 percent and 6.87 percent respectively.

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Background image (Covid-19 virus) credits: Designed by Freepik

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he Indian Auto Industry has today grown to become a very significant industry in India, contributing almost 10 per cent towards the country’s GDP. According to a KPMG report, while the automobile industry contributes around 7.1 per cent towards the GDP, the auto components industry contributes around 2.3 per cent. With major auto clusters in Chakan (Maharashtra), Oragadam (Tamil Nadu), Sanand (Gujarat) and the National Capital Region (NCR), the Indian auto industry largely exports to markets in Africa, Asia, Bangladesh, Mexico and the US. As for its key imports, the Indian auto industry sources critical components from China, Germany, South Korea, Japan and Thailand.

B2B COVER REPORT

The 2020 Union Budget and the Annual Auto Expo in the first quarter of 2020 were expected to boost sentiments. Both unfortunately were a big flop. The Union Budget 2020-2021 had nothing directly substantial for the auto industry. SIAM president Wadhera had stated after the Budget announcement, “The Indian Automobile industry was looking forward to some direct benefits in the budget, which could have helped in reviving demand in the context of the current slowdown and huge investments made by the Industry for transition to BS-6 and from that aspect, the Budget speech was not what we were expecting.”

Though SIAM had made specific recommendations on steps that could revive demand like an Incentive based vehicle scrappage scheme, budget allocation for diesel buses procurement by STUs and NIL customs duty for lithium ion batteries, these were not considered by the Union government. As for the Auto Expo 2020, it was relatively a flop show with several leading players staying away from the show. What one got to see at the show was a massive participation from small time electric vehicle makers. The usual pomp and show and crowd participation went completely missing.

LIVING WITH COVID-19 IN 2020 Even as sentiments were low and the auto industry was reeling under a massive downslide, the malicious face of COVID-19 emerged. Initially, the government was clueless as to how to deal with it. All eyes were trained on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He declared a week-long lockdown across the country and then this was followed by more than a month-long lockdown.

The pandemic spread like wild fire all over the world. On one side, people were dying, on the other, industries were dying. The month of April 2020 heralded the worst times for the Indian auto industry.

At the end of March 2020, Rajesh Menon, SIAM stated that the Indian automobile industry witnessed one of its sharpest declines in domestic sales in March 2020 due to subdued demand and consumer sentiments which was further aggravated by covid-19 outbreak in the country.

Menon would not have ever fathomed that in the following month of April 2020 the industry would record zero domestic sales and meagre exports.

In fact, the month of April 2020 could go down in the history of Indian automobile industry as the darkest month. For the Indian auto industry, never had a new financial year started on such a disastrous note and never had it drawn an absolute blank for an entire month in terms of domestic sales. April 2020 was zero month for the Indian auto industry.

If one were to calculate by what SIAM had to say wherein each day of closure would trigger a loss of more than Rs 2300 crore in turnover for auto OEMS and component manufacturers, then what the industry was looking at was a colossal loss of Rs 92000 crore in turnover by any conservative figure for this zero month. This figure was arrived at by calculating the losses for the 40 days the industry was shut from March 25 to May 03, 2020.

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“The first major casualty of the Chinese boycott was the proposed investment plan

by Great Wall Motors (GWM), a major automotive player from China. GWM had in June 2020 announced signing an MOU with the Maharashtra government to invest in the state-of-the-art automotive manufacturing facility in Talegaon, Maharashtra.”

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Picture for representation purpose only

B2B COVER REPORT

CHINESE BOYCOTT IS A DOUBLE WHAMMY As the auto industry was reeling under the Covid-19 pandemic, what came as a double whammy was the severe strain in the relations between India and China over some skirmishes in the upper regions. India was so infuriated by Chinese “incursions” that it banned several China based Apps, one of them being the popular Tik Tok app. Post the app ban, India gave a call to boycott Chinese goods and Chinese investment.

The first major casualty of the Chinese boycott was the proposed investment plan by Great Wall Motors (GWM), a major automotive player from China. GWM had in June 2020 announced signing an MOU with the Maharashtra government to invest in the state-of-the-art automotive manufacturing facility in Talegaon, Maharashtra. For those who are not in the know, this plant belonged to General Motors which unfortunately wrapped up its business of manufacturing cars in India a few years ago.

GM had two plants in India; one was the Talegaon plant and the other the Halol plant in Gujarat. The latter has been bought over by MG Motor India, a company with British genes (Morris Garages) and Chinese parents (SAIC Motor).

“The Chinese boycott call has taken on such preposterous dimensions that many Indians are calling for the boycott of cars from MG Motor India, a company that is Indian in every sense. It has got its own plant in India at Halol (Gujarat), its own corporate headquarters in Gurugram in North India, employs Indians at its plant, invests in Indian start up ventures, encourages Indian tech talent, etc.”

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B2B COVER REPORT

government.

The Chinese boycott call has taken on such preposterous dimensions that many Indians are calling for the boycott of cars from MG Motor India, a company that is Indian in every sense. It has got its own plant in India at Halol (Gujarat), its own corporate headquarters in Gurugram in North India, employs Indians at its plant, invests in Indian start up ventures, encourages Indian tech talent, etc.

The negative sentiments against Chinese

products are definitely going to affect business dynamics of several automobile manufacturers in India because many of them source critical components from them.

But alas, no automobile company would like to come forward to voice his or her grievance, lest they invite the wrath of the Indian administration.

APRIL-JUNE 1ST QUARTER OF FISCAL 2020-2021 While April 2020 was a dud year for the Indian auto industry, not so exciting were the months of May and June 2020. The

Picture for representation purpose only

Now as per the MoU between GWM and the Maharashtra government, the Chinese company was planning an investment in Talegaon for a fully modernised and stateof-the-art manufacturing facility. GWM also committed a US $ 1 billion investment in India in a phased manner, which was to be directed towards manufacturing world class intelligent & premium products, R&D centre, building supply chain and providing jobs to over 3000 people in a phased manner.

Unfortunately with this current misguided Chinese boycott call, this GWM proposal was put on the back burner by the Maharashtra

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B2B COVER REPORT

Emkay noted that its checks indicate a new product pipeline for Maruti Suzuki including gasoline S Cross (already launched), XL5 UVstyled hatchback, BS6 diesel models, Jimny off-roader UV, electric hatchback, 800cc hatchback and a new UV (over 4m) over the next two years. first quarter of the current fiscal comprising of these months saw the Indian auto industry decline by 75% in terms of domestic sales. Passenger Vehicles sales were at 153,734 units in April-June 2020, compared to 712,684 units in April-June 2019, down by (-) 78.43%.

Commercial Vehicles sales stood at 31,636 units in April-June 2020 compared to 208,310 units in AprilJune 2019, down by (-) 84.81%. Three-wheeler sales stood at 12,760 units in April-June 2020 compared to 149,797 units in April-June 2019, down by (-) 91.48%.

Two-wheeler sales were at 1,293,113 units in April-June 2020, compared to 5,013,067 units in April-June 2019, down by (-) 74.21%.

It was time to announce the first quarterly results for the current fiscal. The balance sheets of Indian auto players were coloured in red. India’s largest passenger car manufacturer Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) was the first to announce its loss.

According to an equity research paper of Emkay Global Financial Services Ltd, a leader in the financial services sector, MSIL posted a 79% decline in Q1 FY21 revenue to Rs 41.1bn (est.:Rs43.3bn) with a net loss of Rs 2.5bn (est.: -Rs3.7bn). Despite weak EBITDA (-Rs8.6bn), the net loss was better than estimate on higher ‘Other income’. Emkay maintained that enquires and booking for the company have reached 85-90% of pre-Covid-19 levels. Production levels have increased to 4,000 units/day and are expected to further increase to 4,900 units/day in August 2020. “We expect volume performance to improve ahead on a low base, pent-up demand and positive rural sentiment. MSIL should hold its pole position in the industry, owing to increasing share of petrol vehicles, focus on network expansion and new products,” the research note said.

Emkay noted that its checks indicate a new product pipeline for Maruti Suzuki including gasoline S Cross

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(already launched), XL5 UV-styled hatchback, BS6 diesel models, Jimny off-roader UV, electric hatchback, 800cc hatchback and a new UV (over 4m) over the next two years.

As for Tata Motors, another large player in the Indian auto industry, the losses were a lot greater because of the terrible performance by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) worldwide. The Tata group has a diverse portfolio of cars, sports utility vehicles, trucks, buses and defence vehicles. It has operations in India, the UK, South Korea, South Africa, China, Brazil, Austria and Slovakia through a strong global network of subsidiaries, associate companies and Joint Ventures (JVs), including Jaguar Land Rover in the UK and Tata Daewoo in South Korea.

The consolidated net revenue of Tata Motors was Rs 31,983 crore for April-June 2020, a 48 per cent drop as compared to the corresponding period last year. Tata Motors Ltd stand alone net revenue stood at Rs 2687 crore for the first quarter of the current fiscal. Profit Before Tax on a consolidated basis stood at a loss of (-) Rs 6184 crore. TML’s stand alone loss stood at Rs 2190 crore.

While worldwide lockdowns affected JLR in a big way, the Indian lockdown affected Tata Motors domestic operations majorly. Tata Motors stated that the outlook for the company as a whole remains uncertain for the year with infections continuing to rise and intermittent lockdowns in many countries. “However, we expect a gradual recovery of demand and supply in the coming months. In this context, we are committed to significantly deleveraging the business in the coming years and aim to generate positive free cash flows over last 3 quarters of the year by focusing on better front end activations of our exciting product range, and executing our cost and cash savings with rigour,” Tata Motors said in a statement.

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“As we look ahead over the next two years, we anticipate a tremendous deal of transformation stemming from COVID-19.

Consumer behaviour will change in numerous ways, from demanding more integrated digital experiences to prioritising health and safety features across purchasing decisions. The move to ‘slow’ travel and personal (versus public and/or shared) transport may shape future demand for passenger vehicles...”

- N Chandrasekaran, Chairman and Non-executive Director, Tata Motors Group

Addressing shareholders in the 75th Integrated Annual Report 2019-20, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman and Nonexecutive Director, Tata Motors Group noted, “As we look ahead over the next two years, we anticipate a tremendous deal of transformation stemming from COVID-19. Consumer behaviour will change in numerous ways, from demanding more integrated digital experiences to prioritising health and safety features across purchasing decisions. The move to ‘slow’ travel and personal (versus public and/or shared) transport may shape future demand

for passenger vehicles. Greater scrutiny will be placed on building environmental sustainability and climate resilience into the very core of business models. The Tata Motor Group is well placed to meet the demand opportunities that will arise from these important and fundamental shifts.”

Meanwhile, addressing stakeholders through its Annual Integrated Report for the financial year 2019-20, R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said “The COVID-19 epidemic has given your company, as well as its vendors and

dealers, an opportunity to review all systems of working and become more efficient and competitive. Thus, while we are going through difficult days, I believe we will all emerge stronger and fitter in the future.”

Sharing optimism he concluded, “I look to the future with a great deal of optimism.

Many new opportunities are likely to open as the world adjusts to the post COVID-19 scene. The government has always been very supportive of manufacturing and I expect conditions for increasing our competitiveness and growth will continue to

“India’s long-term economic prospects are promising which augur well for the automobile business. Experience from the global financial crisis suggests that the Indian economy is quite resilient, and it may not be too far to think that the Indian economy may recover relatively faster this time as well. The company is making all-round efforts to both participate and drive this recovery.”

- Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited

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“I look to the future with a great deal of optimism. Many new opportunities are likely to open as the world adjusts to the post COVID-19 scene. The government has always been very supportive of manufacturing and I expect conditions for increasing our competitiveness and growth will continue to get better in the coming year.”

- R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Limited get better in the coming year.”

On the other hand, Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, “India’s long-term economic prospects are promising which augur well for the automobile business. Experience from the global financial crisis suggests that the Indian economy is quite resilient, and it may not be too far to think that the Indian economy may recover relatively faster this time as well. The company is making allround efforts to both participate and drive this recovery.”

Referring to the Covid-19 pandemic, Ayukawa explained that “This crisis may change our businesses and society in some ways. This may require careful analysis of the changed world and accordingly, the strategy, resources and structure need to be realigned. This crisis may lead to the emergence of new opportunities, skill sets and technological solutions, and we have to be quick in adapting to the requirements of the changed world. I firmly believe in ‘the survival of fittest’. The other important lesson this crisis has taught, is that the business environment has become far more dynamic and interconnected and far less predictable than before…”

THE INDIAN AUTO COMPONENTS INDUSTRY: WHAT LIES AHEAD According to India’s leading rating agency

ICRA, the Indian domestic automotive production declined by 15% in FY2020 and is expected to witness double-digit decline in FY2021 as well. The rating agency maintained a negative outlook on the industry, given that the pandemic will be a supply-chain and demand disruptor in the near term, aggravating the slowdown.

The domestic auto component sector’s revenues are estimated to decline by 1418% in FY2021, driven by weak demand across domestic OEM, replacement market and exports. The industry has been affected by the pandemic and continuing lockdowns which is directly impacting the economic environment and consumer sentiments. The exceptions are mission critical replacement components like batteries and tyres will be less impacted, said the ICRA note.

But the ICRA research expects the recovery to be gradual and slow-paced, with the industry pinning hopes on revival in rural income to support growth in the festive season and thereafter. While passenger vehicle demand will decline by 22% to 25% in the current fiscal, the year will be tough for the commercial vehicles too, given the slowing economic growth, current overcapacity and tight financing environment amidst price increases due to transition to BS-VI emission norms.

However, two wheeler sales could benefit

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as people prefer personal transport and are wary of public transport, easy retail credit availability; and expectations of better demand in rural and semi urban markets, which were relatively less impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions.

Commenting on the industry scenario, Subrata Ray, Senior Group Vice-President, ICRA, said, “Domestic automotive production declined by 14.7% in FY2020 and is expected to witness double-digit decline in FY2021 as well. The aftermarket component demand which accounts for 18% of the industry turnover, is also expected to be subdued in the near term, the exception being components like batteries. The global light vehicle outlook too is expected to remain negative in the next 12-18 months with steep decline anticipated in CY2020 because of extensive spreading of the pandemic and its impact on demand; and consumer income levels. All these will have a serious bearing on auto component industry’s prospects. Though auto and auto component production has partly restarted across various zones in India since early May 2020, production levels continue to be sub 30%. Also, lockdown in auto component clusters, like the current one in Chennai and the ensuing supply chain disruption will keep industry’s recovery on a slow footing.

Shortage of labour and productivity loss because of social distancing will also impact

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output.” Ray had made his statement early July 2020.

ICRA noted that the aftermarket performance during FY2020 was impacted due to continued credit crunch across the channel inventory, tight financing environment and overall economic slowdown leading to lower vehicle movement.

Further, nearly 45 days of sales were lost in Q1 FY2021 because of lockdown; the weakness was felt for the rest of Q1 FY2021.

The liquidity in the market is tight and consolidation in the aftermarket space, with some smaller retailers facing insolvency is expected. Overall, FY2021 is expected to be sluggish for the aftermarket.

Exports too will be affected due to fall in European PV sales in CY2020 as a result of demand squeeze caused by weakening macro-economic scenario; and partly

due to the pandemic. The European HCV demand too will remain subdued in the near term due to the on-going global slowdown.

Vehicle sales in the USA are also expected to decline in CY2020 due to pandemic, in addition to several incumbent factors. The sales of North American Class 8 truck orders plummeted in the last three months, hitting the lowest monthly order levels since 2010.

instilled some confidence into

GROUND REALITIES IN JULY 2020

sentiment of resolve to the

“The month of July was significantly better than the preceding months and it the industry. Many OEMs have registered improved sales vis-à-vis the past few months, and this brings back a

The fourth month of the current fiscal continued to be weak in terms of production Rajesh and sale of vehicles. Rajesh Menon, Director General, SIAM said “The month of July was significantly better than the preceding months and it instilled some confidence into the industry. Many OEMs have registered improved sales vis-à-vis the past few months, and this brings back a sentiment of resolve to the sector.”

-

“After few consecutive of

months of plummeted sales in a post-Covid scenario, there are signs of Green-Shoots in

Passenger vehicles and Two-

Wheelers, where the Year-on-

Year de-growth is much lesser than the previous months. The sales numbers in the month of August would indicate, if this is a sustainable demand and not just a pent-up demand.”

- Rajan Wadhera, President, SIAM

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But Rajan Wadhera, President, SIAM was a bit more cautious when he said that “The sales numbers in the month of August would indicate, if this is a sustainable demand and not just a pent-up demand.”

But he did acknowledge that “After few consecutive of months of plummeted sales in a post-Covid scenario, there are signs of GreenShoots in Passenger vehicles

sector.”

Menon, Director General, SIAM

and Two-Wheelers, where the Year-on-Year de-growth is much lesser than the previous months” According to SIAM data, the total production of Passenger Vehicles (while BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz do not furnish data to SIAM, Tata Motors will no longer be furnishing monthly sales data to SIAM as the company’s management has decided that it would only share quarterly data with SIAM), Three Wheelers, Two Wheelers and Quadricycle in the month of July 2020 was 1,715,514 units, as against 2,428,518 units in July 2019 with a degrowth of (-) 29.36%.

As far as domestic sales are concerned, passenger vehicle sales were down (-) 3.86% as collectively sold 182,779 units in July 2020, compared to 190,115 units in July 2019. Three-wheeler sales were 12,728 units in July 2020 compared to 55,719 units in July 2019 marking a decrease by (-) 77.16%.

Sales of two-wheelers stood at 1,281,354

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The period from April to July 2020, saw domestic sales at 336,513 units, compared to 902,799 units in April-July 2019, down by (-) 62.73%.Three-wheeler sales were 25,488 units in April-July 2020 compared to 205,516 units in April-July 2019, down by (-) 87.60%. The two-wheeler sales declined by (-) 60.54% at 2,574,467 units in AprilJuly 2020, compared to 6,524,784 units in April-July 2019.

THE SILVER LINING- INDIAN TRACTOR INDUSTRY If there is any sector which is beginning to look bright and shining in this gloom, it is the country’s tractor segment.

Auto companies that are into tractor manufacturing are seeing a growth in their sales. Leading tractor manufacturer Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES) sold 24,463 units in July 2020 as against 19,174 units during July 2019.

Similarly, total tractor sales for the company (Domestic + Exports) during July 2020 were at 25,402 units, as against 19,992 units for the same period last year. Exports for the month stood at 939 units.

Hemant Sikka, President - Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said that his company grew by 28% in July 2020 that these were the highest ever July sales for the company. “The strong demand momentum continued, aided by positive sentiments due to good cash flows to farmers, higher Kharif sowing, a timely and normal monsoon cumulatively across June & July and continued higher rural spending by the Government. Localized lockdowns in certain states and COVID related impact on specific suppliers led to supply side challenges during the month. It is expected that the sentiments are likely to remain buoyant translating into robust tractor demand in the coming months” he stated.

Similarly, Sonalika from International

“We have been consistently growing amidst the prevailing situation with 25% growth (deliveries) in May’20 and 55% growth (Billing) in June’20 and 71.7% growth (Billing) in July’20.

We look forward to the uptick in demand and continue our growth momentum by surpassing industry growth in the forthcoming festive season as well.”

- Raman Mittal, Executive Director, Sonalika Group Tractors Ltd, an LD Mittal led company and one of the leading tractor manufacturers in the country, recorded highest ever domestic growth of 71.7% in July 2020 and overall (Domestic + Exports) 10,223 tractors sale.

Domestic sales stood at 8219 tractors compared to 4788 sales same period last year. The company continues to be on growth trajectory beating industry growth.

Raman Mittal, Executive Director, Sonalika Group, said, “Our cumulative domestic growth (April-July) is at 17.7%, which is highest in the entire tractor industry. This superlative performance is resultant of our strategy to continue launching new tractors customised to meet various geographic and application specific requirements of the farmers across globe. We have been consistently growing amidst the prevailing situation with 25% growth (deliveries) in May’20 and 55% growth (Billing) in June’20 and 71.7% growth (Billing) in July’20.

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We look forward to the uptick in demand and continue our growth momentum by surpassing industry growth in the forthcoming festive season as well.”

Thus, while the agriculture sector is showing no after-effects of covid-19 pandemic, the rest of the industry leaders are keeping their fingers crossed for improved sales in the months leading to the festive season during September-October, 2020. But then there are many who feel that the year 2020 could be a total washout for the Indian Auto Industry.

Picture for representation purpose only

units in July 2020, compared to 1,511,717 units in July 2019 marking a decrease by (-) 15.24%.

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INTERVIEW WITH

K.N. GUPTA

Joint Managing Director, Maclite (Super Nova Autolite Pvt Ltd) & MD, SKNG Business Solutions Pvt Ltd

Q1). The Indian auto industry has seen the worst during the recent lockdown as a result of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. Do you think the auto industry, that includes the OEMs, component makers - the tier 1, 2 and 3 players will recover from this fiasco?

How long will it take?

A1). I think this is the worst time the Indian auto industry has ever witnessed. It is very difficult to predict when the auto industry will come out of this fiasco, though I am sure it will come out some day. It may take two years or maybe more, depending on the segment it is in, whether it is an OEM, a Tier 1, Tier 2 or any other player. It may take two years or so to come to pre-COVID stage scenario. I feel the OEMs will take the longest time to recover, the reason being that they have to sell their products in the market and customer sentiments are very negative at the moment.

Everybody wants to preserve whatever money they have.

People who were used to having several cars are now not willing to spend on buying a new car, especially luxury

64 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

cars. Even when it comes to non-luxury cars, families that were used to keeping two or three cars in their homes, will now think twice before buying new cars. During COVID-19 lockdown many of them realised that having so many cars meant nothing, all they did was to spend money on the maintenance of their cars.

Who are the customers for passenger cars? They include individuals, corporate and those from the travel and tourism industry. A big chunk of cars are sold to the travel and tourism industry. This industry has been hit badly because of the pandemic.

As for the corporate, many of them are thinking of reducing cost. And with many corporates encouraging their employees to work from home, the demand for cars has been curtailed drastically. I know of companies that have closed their offices completely and have asked their employees to work only from home.

Within the auto industry, I feel the segments catering to two-wheelers, agriculture, infrastructure and defence

could see some demand.

Those used to travelling by public transport may now go in for travelling by twowheelers.

Within the auto industry, I feel the tier 3 players would be the ones who would be severely affected during this pandemic time. I know of several tier 3 players who have shut shop in the country. As for the tier 2 players, they are in a slightly better position.

There is even a possibility of tier 2 and tier 3 players merging. For tier 2 and 3 to survive, they need to adopt alternative technologies and move into alternative businesses.

Coming to tier 1 players, they will survive because the spare parts sale is improving.

Demand in the aftermarket segment is improving. But many tier 1 players are not able to the meet the increased demand from the aftermarket because labour is not available. How come there is an aftermarket demand?

Since the markets were closed for the last few months, and with the ongoing monsoon

playing havoc with vehicles, the demand for replacement parts has risen. Also one should remember the fact that tier 1 players are a lot more financially stable than other players down the line. They have a lot of surplus funds.

Many of them have already started diversifying into nonautomotive businesses. But having said that, the overall automotive business will not be like what it was before, at least for the time being. The biggest challenge today is manpower. People are scared to go to factories to work.

Q2). Is it a dawn of a new order in the auto industry?

Will digital technology play a very important role in the coming years when it comes to sales and promotion of products? What about physical meetings with clients and a touch and feel atmosphere, has it disappeared forever?

A2).Digital technology in sales and marketing is still very far away from being successful in India. Indians at large are still in the habit of physically visiting showrooms to see,

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touch and feel a vehicle before purchasing it. Then there are things like negotiating with a dealer before buying a product.

These are some things Indians cannot do without. I have yet to come across a person who has bought a car or a twowheeler or a tractor online, not at least without once visiting the showroom. In the rural areas it’s even more difficult for technology to play a critical role because of the lack of basic infrastructure. I don’t see a future in digital marketing immediately when it comes to sale of vehicles.

I am not denying that online has a role to play. People are looking at vehicles online before purchasing a vehicle either on their laptops or computers. But that is all. But for every car, big or small, the final deal has to be done at the showroom. Also, the final negotiation, whether one is a CEO or an ordinary person, is done at the showroom. It could be negotiating for a free floor mat or some such thing, but this negotiation is done in the real world.

Q3). Since the entire globe is connected through trade and commerce, do you think the Indian auto industry will bear the consequences of this in terms of exports, technology transfer, tie-ups, etc?

A3). The Indian auto industry depends a lot on imports of critical components, tooling, technology, etc. The government is saying that it is going to ban Chinese products.

All that is fine, these are long drawn projects. Two or three

years may be too short a time frame for this. Earlier, when tools used to get damaged, we used to get technicians from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and China, among other places.

But today when a tool needs to be repaired, the technicians from abroad are not willing to come. Every time it does not make sense to connect on internet and get a solution.

People have to physically come and do the job.

Coming to technology, the Indian auto industry depends a lot on foreign countries for the design and development of their products. In some cases, we also depend on critical components too. Many Indian companies have been localizing their products to a great extent.

Also because of the pandemic, vehicle exports may be affected, though component exports may increase a bit.

As for tie ups with foreign companies, it is going to be a very difficult proposition now, with no major physical contact and negotiation. One should not forget there is a fear psychosis prevailing among people. Today no one is interested to go to any foreign country to conduct a meeting or anything else. He or she would rather quit the job rather than travel abroad for a meeting.

Even if I were to tell a person in Delhi to go to Chennai for a company related matter, he is scared. COVID-19 has put so much fear in the minds of the people. Two years or so would be too short a time to dispel this fear.

K.N. Gupta, or KNG as he is fondly called, is an accomplished professional having more than 40 years of invaluable experience in the Automobile Industry. During his long and rewarding working career, he has maintained an impeccable record when it comes to integrity and hard work. His result oriented work and strong leadership qualities have always benefitted the organisations he has worked in, ensuring strong business growth and productivity.

KNG focuses strongly on people, processes and performance. He has an immaculate track record in forming dynamic teams across operational areas spanning Manufacturing, Materials, Systems Implementation, Quality, Finance, Sales and Business Development. His domain expertise is in Human Capital Management, manufacturing science, project management, new business development and plant operations.

He has gained unique insight into improving businesses, especially Tier 1 & 2 auto ancillaries.

KNG is at present running his own company, SKNG BUSINESS SOLUTIONS based in the National Capital Region and has taken up several challenging assignments within the auto ancillary industry. He has played a dominant role in spearheading many tier 2 as well as tier 1 players towards the path of success. His deep understanding of handling family businesses and mentoring the second generation have resulted in a smooth transition of power and management within companies.

Apart from running his own company, KNG is also on board of an auto ancillary in India as Joint Managing Director where he has the onerous task of managing the complete operations of its plant, diversification, new green field projects in NCR , joint ventures / technical tie-ups and business development in domestic and international market as per company targets and customer requirement.

He can be reached at skngbs@gmail.com / 9810088413

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North India public transport providers facing total collapse Bus & Car Operators Confederation of India - (BOCI) and the Delhi Contract Bus Association, leading associations in passenger transport in Delhi/NCR who look after the interest and welfare of contract carriage and All India Tourist Permit buses are seeking government intervention to save the sector from a total collapse.

The corona outbreak has severely impacted the passenger transport segment in North India particularly in Delhi/NCR. The public transport sector has pleaded to the government to consider several waivers and concessions in order to sustain itself during these tough times as fallout of the ongoing pandemic. It has asked the government to consider waiver of road and passenger taxes for next three quarters, deferment of tax payments, extension of vehicle insurance validity, deferment of EMI payments for next 6 to 12months and waiver of Interest component, among other things.

It has also sought from the government discount of 10% to 25% on toll taxes / Fast tags. The sector wants that validity of documents like fitness certificate, permit, driving license, protection against defaulter companies and schools, registrations or any other relevant cause need to be extended or deemed to be renewed till March 2021.

They also want subsidies on diesel and tax reduction on spare parts for a stipulated period which would help to reduce the cost of running the vehicles.

The Bus & Car Operators

66 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

Confederation of India represents private passenger transport operators and has over 17 lakh operational buses on Indian roads, out of which, about 1.50 lakh buses are operated by various STUs. The remaining 15.5 lakh buses, accounting for almost 30 crore passenger trips, are run by private operators which are the member of various Associations & Federations affiliated to BOCI. BOCI and other associations have maintained that its members have suffered a financial loss of Rs 65,000 crore in last two months and that their business has no money to continue operations in coming months and are now on verge of collapse. The sector has made several representations to the transport authorities and also to several ministers.

than one crore people are directly or indirectly dependent on this sector.

But due to the pandemic, financial crisis in the passenger transport segment has reached its peak. Unless the Government provides timely and necessary support to the sector the whole ecosystem stands the risk of collapse. “The transport operators are under acute financial strain and about 65-70% of their vehicles are still off the road.

Further, given the present situation, the Bus operators and transporters are under duress and the situation is further aggravated by depletion of their available finances. This coupled with statutory compliance, motor insurance, EMI interest, establishment cost, salaries, working capital etc. have created a crisis of mammoth proportion for the operators. Additionally, the uncertainty of timelines for resumption of operations, hygiene guidelines, impact of social distancing etc. will create further burden on the sector.�

Harish Shabhawal, General Secretary, Delhi Contract Bus Association & VP North, BOCI, New Delhi said that ‘The Government has taken steps to support the economy through various schemes and actions, however they have not addressed the public transport sector. The research units of road sector are continually keeping a tab on the deteriorating condition of this Picture for representation purpose only sector. More

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Delhi shows the way for electric vehicles with new EV policy

With this new Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, he hopes that by the year 2024, 25% of all new vehicle registrations in Delhi will be for EVs. And for that to materialise, the new EV policy has come out with substantial incentives for promoting purchase of electric vehicles. As per the policy, the Delhi government will waive registration fee, road tax, and provide an incentive of up to Rs 1.5 lakh for new cars. An incentive of up to Rs 30,000 will be provided for e-twowheelers, autos, e-rickshaws and freight vehicles.

The Delhi Chief Minister said his government will also set up 200 charging stations in a year to ensure that people driving these vehicles can get a charging

station within the radius of three kilometers. There is already the Centre’s scheme on electric vehicles called ‘Fame India Phase-2’, under which the Union government also provides some incentives.

And the Delhi government scheme will be an addition to the Centre’s scheme and people can also avail benefits under both the schemes, Kejriwal stated. .

While stating that there has been a 25% reduction in pollution level in Delhi in the last five years, Kejriwal said that he was not satisfied with it and this policy aims to further reduce pollution in the national capital. He said youth in his State will be trained so that they get jobs as electric vehicle sector will need them at a large scale after implementation of this policy.

INDUSTRY HAILS DELHI EV POLICY SOHINDER GILL: Hailing the new EV policy, Sohinder Gill, DG-SMEV and Global CEO, Hero Electric stated that this policy will provide more push to the existing

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EV architecture than the current FAME II scheme. “The customers who were unable to get subsidy under the central government’s scheme due to certain restrictive norms, now have a chance to avail subsidy under this scheme. It has also set an example of how a policy can run without using exchequer money.

The only small missing point in the policy, Gill pointed out is that it doesn’t support the lithium battery e-scooters with speeds up to 25km/hr. These e scooters

AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 67

Vector image credits: Designed by Freepik

Finally, the capital city of India, New Delhi, has shown the way for the rest of the country when it comes to promoting electric vehicles. Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi, has launched an Electric Vehicle Policy which he feels is the best in the country.

B2B NEWS

are particularly popular with Delhi-ites because of their attractive prices and extremely low running costs. With a bit of support of the Delhi government the adoption of such e scooters would have grown multifold.

We hope the government would look into it and make some amendments in the future, he added.

JEETENDER SHARMA: “When it comes to the adoption of electric vehicles, affordability has been one of the major concerns for buyers. Since most of the EV manufacturers have to import parts like battery cells which are not manufactured in India. This increases the cost of the product. With

Delhi government announcing incentives of up to INR 30,000 on two-wheelers, we expect to see an easy and faster adoption of the same among buyers now. What is more important is to push people towards considering EVs over ICE. Once people become familiar and comfortable travelling on EVs, we can expect an overall mindset shift and a widespread benefit,” said Jeetender Sharma- MD and Founder Okinawa.

ANMOL JAGGI: “The Delhi

68 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

Government has been very proactive towards electric mobility adoption in the State and their continuous efforts to make Delhi’s air cleaner with more electric vehicles is worth noting and something that all States should adopt.

We applaud the Chief Minister, Mr. Arvind Kejriwal for his progressive leadership and congratulate the Government for the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy 2020. We welcome the move and extend our support by expanding BluSmart services into Delhi starting with Vasant Kunj and Dwarka in the coming week,” said Anmol Jaggi, Founder, BluSmart Electric Mobility. BluSmart is India’s first and largest all-electric shared on-demand smart mobility platform. Part of Gensol Mobility, the company is led by Punit Singh Jaggi (Co-Founder), Anmol Singh Jaggi (Co-Founder and CEO) and Punit K Goyal and was launched in Delhi-NCR with about 70 Mahindra Verito EVs in the year 2018.

JITENDRA SHAH: “We applaud the Delhi government’s move of approving the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy. It would provide positive momentum in a time when the industry is weathering the adverse effects of COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that these fiscal and non-fiscal incentives will help the industry in not only coming back to its feet but also to take steady strides ahead,” said Jitendra Shah, MD , Jitendra New EV tech.( Fame2 listed firm).

AKASH GUPTA: “The announcement of the new EV policy in Delhi is a big boost to EV startups. The flexibility of the policy is a

bonus as it can be modified with the changing dynamics.

The purchase incentives and interest subvention on loans will encourage more people to buy EVs over the conventional ICE vehicles. A maximum incentive of 30k per e-scooter is a big one to boost two wheeler adoption in Delhi which is exactly where Zypp Electric is working on.

Also, setting up 200 charging stations within a year is another step towards overcoming the reluctance to buy EVs as onroad recharging has been a challenge for consumers. The policy is well-timed and highly needed at this hour. Not just EV manufacturers and sellers, it will also boost business for other clean energy players to compete in the market. We are estimating to save more than 95 lakhs alone from the new policy which we can use to further strengthen our hold in the clean vehicle market.

This is a welcome step taken by the Delhi government to address the pollution problem that haunts Delhiites,” said Akash Gupta, CEO and Co-Founder of ZYPP Electric Mobility.

for Electric Vehicles comes at the right time for this industry segment, which has been reeling under pressures of the recessionary conditions from last year followed by the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic which necessitated the phases of lockdown.

The consumer focussed incentivisation will bring the

Delhi Govt.’s EV Policy to accelerate Adoption, give a boost to new Investments, R&D & Innovations towards localisation and Employment.

PANKAJ TIWARI: “The Delhi Government’s policy

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different categories of electric vehicles in the consideration set of buyers, who were shying away so far. The policy is also holistic in nature that will be steered by an ‘EV Cell’ and presents a five year roadmap that will see 5 lakh EVs on roads of the National Capital. Further, the state government envisages setting up a strong network of charging infrastructure comprising of 200 charging stations that will act as a catalyst to the growth of the segment as it will effectively address the range anxiety concerns.” said Pankaj Tiwari, Business Head of Nexzu Mobility India.

AKSHAY SINGHAL:”Fiscal incentives for purchase of EVs is welcome. However, it is not a long term solution. Incentives for localisation of vehicle and component manufacturing is a must. Probably preferential incentives for indigenous vehicles depending on the level indigenisation would lead to long term benefits” said Akshay SInghal, Founder, Log 9 materials. Log 9 Materials is a nanotechnology company that aims to revolutionise the energy sector with an innovative zero emission, low-cost aluminiumair fuel cell. Log 9’s mission is to create a clean, circular energy economy. The company has developed a fuel cell prototype that can power an automobile for 1,000 km with zero waste

and zero emissions.

TARUN MEHTA: “The Delhi Government has created a policy that addresses the issues of accessibility for the end consumer. The additional subsidy makes EVs more affordable across the board and offering it to higher performance vehicles, will ensure that end consumers will actually purchase and use these vehicles. Delhi has taken a holistic approach to their policy, taking into account charging infrastructure, different automobile models and scrappage of old ICE vehicles.

Ather will begin deliveries of our flagship scooter Ather 450X in the coming weeks in Delhi. The state’s policy effectively reduces the on-road cost of our scooters by nearly INR 15000. We look forward to being in the country’s capital very soon,” said Tarun Mehta , CEO and Co-Founder, Ather Energy.

NAGESH BASAVANHALLI:”The EV Policy announced by the Delhi government is a welcome step in the right direction as it will encourage the adoption of electric vehicles in the capital and will set an example for other states to follow. The new policy providing incentives worth Rs 30,000 on electric 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers, along with loan facilities on low-interest rates will not only boost the EV adoption, but also generate employment opportunities; which is much required considering the current scenario. Taking a step further, the policy also talks about strengthening the infrastructure by setting up 200 charging stations. This will go a long way to create a sustainable

ecosystem that will impact us and the next generation in a positive way,” said Nagesh Basavanhalli, MD & CEO, Greaves Cotton Limited.

NAVEEN MUNJAL: “I would like to congratulate the Delhi government on launching the new electric vehicle policy that will go a long way in boosting Delhi’s economy, creating jobs and reducing air pollution in the national capital. The incentives declared under this policy will be beneficial to the customers and will certainly help Delhi achieve its goal of electrification of vehicles.I would like to express my gratitude to the CM, Arvind Kejriwal and his team for his vision and for this progressive policy and hope that it will inspire other states in India to adopt similar measures”, said Naveen Munjal, MD, Hero Electric.

SAURAV KUMAR: “The new electric vehicle policy by the Delhi Government is a welcome step that will accelerate EV

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transition across segments.

It is a holistic policy that addresses core EV challenges of subsidizing cost differences with respect to Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, financial incentives on loans, creation of charging stations and skill creations.

Covid-19 gave us a rare glimpse into clear sky and low AQI air to breathe. We believe that accelerating Electric Vehicles will bring health, geo-political and economic benefits to India. Euler Motors looks forward to working with Delhi Government and other respective stakeholders to help achieve the chief minister’s goal of 25% Electrified Delhi through our fleet of electric commercial vehicles for last mile logistics,” SAID Saurav Kumar, CEO & Founder, Euler Motors, a Delhi-based EV Start-up, which already has over 200 light commercial electric vehicles deployed in the NCR for last mile delivery services by ECommerce players such as BigBasket, EcomExpress and Udaan.

AUGUST 2020 | MOTOWN INDIA | 69

TECHNOLOGY

JLR develops contactless touchscreen to help fight bacteria and viruses New contactless touchscreen technology developed by Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Cambridge will help keep drivers’ eyes on the road and reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses in a post COVID-19 world.

The patented technology, known as ‘predictive touch’, uses artificial intelligence and sensors to predict a user’s intended target on the touchscreen–whether that’s satellite navigation, temperature controls or entertainment settings – without touching a button.

The pioneering system, developed with engineers at the University of Cambridge, is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s Destination Zero vision – a desire to make its vehicles

safer and the environment cleaner and healthier.

In the ‘new normal’ once lockdowns around the world are lifted, a greater emphasis will be placed on safe, clean mobility where personal space and hygiene will carry premiums.

Jaguar Land Rover vehicles are already designed to help improve passenger wellbeing, with innovations including a Driver Condition Monitor, engine noise cancellation and cabin air ionisation with PM2.5 filtration to capture ultrafine particles and allergens. New technology like predictive touch is another step forward as we address the wider

can often cause vibrations that make it difficult to select the correct button on a touchscreen. This means drivers must take their attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident.

landscape of mobility, from how customers connect with mobility services, to the infrastructure required to enable fully integrated, autonomous vehicles in our cities, like Project Vector.

Lab-tests and on-road trials showed the predictive touch technology could reduce a driver’s touchscreen interaction effort and time by up to 50%, as well as limiting the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Uneven or poor road surfaces

The technology uses artificial intelligence to determine the item the user intends to select on the screen early in the pointing task, speeding up the interaction. A gesture tracker uses vision-based or radio frequency-based sensors, which are increasingly common in consumer electronics, to combine contextual information such as user profile, interface design and environmental conditions with data available from other sensors, such as an eye-gaze tracker, to infer the user’s intent in real time.

Lanxess polyamide 6 comes handy in making hybrid vehicle bolster Thermoplastics with easy-flowing properties are usually somewhat more expensive than comparable standard materials; however, they offer advantages that ultimately pay off in terms of processing, production costs and freedom of design. This can be seen in the highly integrated bolster produced in plastic-metal composite technology (hybrid technology) for the Ford Kuga SUV. In addition to steel panels, the production of the highly loaded structural component includes polyamide 6, the easyflowing, fiberglass-reinforced Durethan

70 | MOTOWN INDIA | AUGUST 2020

of the automotive industry, which has its headquarters in Morsbach, Germany.

BKV30H2.0EF from Lanxess. The bolster and the fully assembled front-end module were developed and are produced by Montaplast GmbH, a global system supplier

Ulrich Dajek, hybrid design expert at Lanxess, explains: “Our easy-flowing polyamide 6 can be processed at lower injection pressures. For this reason, smaller injection molding machines with lower clamping forces can be used in the production of the hybrid bolster. This has a positive effect on the machine running costs and allows greater flexibility in terms of machine selection and production planning.”

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