Motown India March 2018

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VOL-8 • ISSUE-6 • MARCH 2018 • `100/-

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he March 2018 issue of Motown India is refreshingly different, both on the design front as well as on the content front. We have made the news presentation a lot more interesting and spiffy. We shall be continuing with this new format henceforth.

We have also increased the price of the magazine to `100.

There is no denying the fact that reading is going out of vogue. Brevity is much in demand.

Video content too is a lot in vogue on various platforms. The growing influence of social media sites has definitely punctured the world of print, especially niche auto magazines. But at the end of the day, print offers fine language and feel.

This issue is divided into two sections, the B2C and the B2B. Both sections carry elaborate reports on their respective industries. The pages contain an exhaustive Auto Expo 2018 report, besides other relevant automotive related news. These and other exciting reports are also found on our websites www.motownindia.com and www.micorporate.com.

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C ONT E NTS VOL 8 | ISSUE 6 | MARCH 2018

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GLOBAL NEWS : Mahindra unveils new off-road vehicle Roxor in US

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INDIA CAR NEWS : Ford India unveils Freestyle crossover

27

INDIA BIKE NEWS : Royal Enfield launches new Thunderbird 350X & 500X

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Quality and precision in manufacturing are the strong pillars of our global presence. We believe that every customer has a specific need and therefore we invest in precise technology to manufacture each bearing. No wonder, the world sees us a Dependable Partner.

GLOBAL NEWS

Mahindra unveils new off-road vehicle ROXOR in US

Mahindra Automotive North America (MANA), part of the Mahindra Group and Mahindra’s North American automotive headquarters, held the public unveiling of Mahindra’s Roxor—a new, off-road vehicle.

Unlike the plastic-bodied, belt-driven vehicles long accepted in the Side x Side category, Roxor offers a simple, hard worn approach, featuring a steel body on a boxed steel frame, a heavy-duty Mahindra turbodiesel 4 cylinder engine, and an automotive style 5-speed manual transmission.

Roxor was conceived, designed, engineered and is being produced in Metro Detroit

by MANA. MANA’s new operation is the central component of the 400,000 sq. ft. (spanning 3 facilities) footprint Mahindra now has in Metro Detroit and is the first OEM

6 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

manufacturing/assembly facility to open operations in Southeast Michigan in over 25 years.

Roxor signifies Mahindra’s commitment to introducing its tough, no-nonsense automotive heritage to the consumers in the North American market. Roxor’s design demonstrates that Mahindra intends to stay true to its roots of industrial-grade construction and durability.

According to Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., “Mahindra’s 70-year automotive history has been forged by making authentic, rugged, purpose-driven vehicles; Roxor is the embodiment of this history and our brand.”

Rick Haas, President and CEO - Mahindra

Automotive North America “The Roxor creates a new sub-segment in the Side x Side industry and the response we are getting from our newly appointed dealer body has been really outstanding. We have a National Dealer Meeting scheduled on March 1820th, in San Antonio, Texas, where we will sit down and discuss the roll-out and future product offerings. We are approaching our goal of 300 “1st wave” dealers and expect that we will reach this target between now and the end of the show.”

Mahindra Automotive North America has, to date, created 300 new jobs and invested over $230 million into Southeast Michigan. As both Roxor production and other programs ramp up, Mahindra anticipates creating an additional 400 jobs and investing another $600 million in the local economy by 2020.

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GLOBAL NEWS

A Range Rover goes all the way to Heaven’s Gate!

We often remark, “It feels like heaven!” But reaching the gates of heaven may not really be an easy task unless of course you are driving the new Range Rover Sport PHEV. A dizzying 99 turns and 999 daunting steps didn’t stop the new Range Rover Sport PHEV from completing a world-first at one of China’s most famous landmarks. The petrolelectric performance SUV has become the first vehicle to climb the stairs to the natural rock arch of Heaven’s Gate.

Terrain Response 2 system in Dynamic mode.

The challenge began at the bottom of the legendary 11.3km Tianmen Mountain Road (known as the Dragon Road). The showroom standard Range Rover Sport P400e took on the demanding course, with Panasonic Jaguar Racing’s Ho-Pin Tung behind the wheel and the

The new PHEV powertrain gives the Range Rover Sport a zero-emission EV range of up to 50km when fully charged but Ho-Pin Tung used its advanced 300PS Ingenium petrol engine and 116PS electric motor to make short work of the road section of the challenge.

8 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

At the summit of the road, the Formula E driver optimised Terrain Response for the second part of the challenge, conquering the towering 45-degree staircase of 999 steps leading to China’s legendary Heaven’s Gate using a combination of Ingenium petrol and electric battery power.

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GLOBAL NEWS

Snowboarder Jamie Barrow breaks Guinness World Record towed by a Maserati Snowboarding is real fun and when you go down the icy slopes, it’s like cutting through frozen ice. But then there is another way to go a lot faster. Britain’s fastest snowboarder Jamie Barrow has broken his own Guinness World Record, clocking a new fastest speed on a snowboard while being towed by a powerful Maserati Levante SUV on the frozen lake of St Moritz in Switzerland.

Barrow previously broke the same record in February 2016, when he was clocked at a speed of 99.87 km/h while being towed behind a car across the same frozen lake in St Moritz. Despite breaking the record in 2016, Barrow was always confident that an even greater speed was possible, due to the track in 2016 being slightly shorter than originally planned and the soft snow not allowing the grip needed.

This time he returned to the lake with a powerful Maserati Levante SUV, a much faster car than the one used in his last record attempt, fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Winter tyres. The special studded tyres have 474 studs per tyre and are 4 mm long to allow the best grip possible on the frozen lake.

Maserati’s luxury SUV offers an array of high-tech features including the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System and the recently developed EPS producing a highly capable SUV. With its variable torque control, the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system is always active and responds immediately to any variation in the driving conditions, providing premium performance for Barrow’s Guinness World Record.

BMW 7 Series makes iconic appearance in spy thriller Red Sparrow The BMW 7 Series has landed a major Hollywood role alongside Oscar-winner Jennifer Lawrence in Red Sparrow, the new spy thriller from 20th Century Fox Film, which opened in cinemas abroad on March 2, 2018.

Jennifer Lawrence plays Dominika Egorova, a prima ballerina with Russia’s world-renowned Bolshoi Ballet. When she suffers a career-ending injury, Dominika and her mother are facing a bleak and uncertain future. That is why she finds herself manipulated into becoming the newest recruit for Sparrow School, a secret intelligence service that trains exceptional young people like her to use their

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bodies and minds as weapons. After the training process, she emerges as the most dangerous Sparrow the program has ever produced. Dominika must now reconcile the person she was with the power she now commands, with her own life and everyone she cares about at risk, including an American CIA agent (Joel Edgerton) who tries to convince her he is the only person she can trust.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 9

INDIA CAR NEWS

New VIII gen Rolls-Royce Phantom in India at `9.5 crore onward The new VIII generation Phantom from RollsRoyce Motor Cars made its debut in India. Pricing in India for Phantom (Standard Wheelbase) has been officially announced from Rs 9.5 crore, with Phantom Extended Wheelbase from Rs 11.35 crore, inclusive of a four-year service package and regional warranty, 24-hour roadside support.

Pricing depends on customer specification, with all Phantoms built bespoke.

The car which epitomises luxury at its best was launched in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu in South India through KUN Exclusive dealer. KUN is the sole authorised Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealer for Chennai and Hyderabad. Since 1925, Phantom has been the ultimate ceremonial chariot, conveying some of the world’s most influential men and women to defining moments in history.

The car was launched in the presence of Vasanthi Bhupati, Managing Director for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chennai and KUN Exclusive and Paul Harris, APAC Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The new Phantom is lighter, yet 30% more rigid than its predecessors.

10 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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INDIA CAR NEWS

Ford India unveils Freestyle crossover Ford India has unveiled a Figo-based crossover that goes by the name Freestyle. Distinguishing it from the Figo, the Freestyle comes with a new bonnet, grille and headlights.

With a 15mm more ground clearance than the regular Figo, the Freestyle comes with roof rails, extra body cladding and sits on 185/60 R15 tyres.

These are bigger than the Figo tyres.

The Freestyle is powered by a brand new Ford engine - a 1.2-litre, threecylinder petrol from the Dragon engine family. It delivers 95hp and a peak torque of 115Nm. The engine is mated to a new five-speed gearbox from Getrag. A more powerful engine with a bigger displacement is on the anvil.

The new Ford Freestyle has a 6-inch touch screen unit on the lower trims, while the top variants gets an 8-inch one with Ford Sync 3. As for safety, the top trims also get six airbags. The vehicle will be launched in the second quarter of calendar 2018. The vehicle was unveiled in the presence of Ford India President and MD Anurag Mehrotra..

(R - L) Anurag Mehrotra, President & MD, Vinay Raina, Executive DirectorMarketing, Sales & Service and Rahul Gautam - VP Marketing, Ford India.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 11

INDIA CAR NEWS

Maserati 2018 SUV Levante in India for `1.49 crore onward

Maserati, the Italian luxury carmaker, has announced the launch of its most anticipated SUV – the 2018 Levante, in India. The 2018 Maserati Levante will cost Rs 1,45,12,054 for the Levante Diesel model. The Levante Diesel GranSport will cost Rs 1,48, 63,774 while the Levante Diesel GranLusso will cost Rs 1,53,83,399.

For India, the 2018 Levante is fitted with a 275hp 3 litre V6 Turbo Diesel, combined with the “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive system which can transfer torque between the axles instantaneously when required - and an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with integrated Start & Stop System. In terms of performance, the Diesel-powered Levante (275hp) covers 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, and has a top speed of

230 km/h.

The Levante is the latest addition to the 2018 range of the carmaker, which started the year with the launch of 2018 Maserati Quattroporte GTS. The 2018 Levante has also adopted the new range strategy by offering two distinct new trims: the luxury-orientated GranLusso and the red-blooded GranSport.

As with many Maseratis from the past, the car’s name is inspired by a wind: the Levante is a warm Mediterranean wind that can change from a light breeze to an irresistible natural force in an instant, mirroring the character of the new Maserati SUV.

Mahindra offers 100bhp engine across all TUV300 variants Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. has launched their popular TUV 300 compact SUV with its mHawk100 engine capable of producing 100bhp across all variants. The engine has been made available on the T4+ and T6+ variants across all its dealerships in India. The T4+ variant of the TUV 300 has been priced at Rs. 8.02 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai) while the T6+ variant has been priced at Rs. 8.59 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai).

Other models on which the mHawk100 engine is available are the T4+, T6+, T8, T8 AMT, T10 and T10 AMT.

12 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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INDIA CAR NEWS

Mercedes launches new S Class for `1.33 Crore Luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz India launched an updated version of their flagship sedan, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The new S-Class from the stables of Mercedes-Benz will be India’s first BS VI compliant vehicle with a BS VI compliant diesel engine. The company has launched the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 350 d for Rs. 1.33 crore (ex-showroom India) and the S 450 for Rs. 1.37 crore (ex-showroom India). The car was launched by Roland Folger, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India in New Delhi. Mercedes-Benz has incorporated technological measures on the new S 350 d which significantly reduce the car’s tail pipe emissions.

Mahindra launches ‘Bring the Showroom Home’ mobile experience Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.) has announced an industry first initiative in the automotive retail space with the launch of its ‘Bring the Showroom Home’, a portable, mobile based, interactive Virtual Reality experience. This is a unique initiative wherein a customer would get a 360 degree, all-encompassing and immersive virtual showroom experience. The announcement was made by Veejay Nakra, Chief of Sales & Marketing – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. Bring the Showroom Home is part of a series of initiatives under Mahindra’s Digital Transformation Strategy.

Isuzu launches new ‘5ecure’ 5 year comprehensive warranty for mu-X

Isuzu Motors India rolled out a new 5 year Comprehensive Warranty and 5 year free periodic maintenance under its new ‘5ecure’ offer for its mu-X customers in India. This new offer will be available to the consumer at no additional cost and aims to offer an unbeatable value proposition. Currently the Isuzu mu-X is offered in India with a price tag of Rs. 23.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Under the ‘5ecure’ offer, Isuzu is giving customer a comprehensive warranty of 5 years/ 150,000 kms whichever comes earlier. This is a warranty extension by 2 years/ 50,000 kms over the standard warranty being offered by the company.

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Rollr in-vehicle telematics device from Samvardhana Motherson Group High-end devices sending live updates on tracking, alerts and car health will not be confined to premium cars anymore.

Rollr, a Made in India telematics product can be plugged in cars across segments including high end luxury vehicles, providing cutting-edge features and an easy way for car owners to stay in touch with their vehicles.

Rollr Mini is a plug-and-play device; it plugs into the OBD-port of the car and once activated, the Rollr Mini sends Live Tracking, Alerts and Car Health updates to the user via the Rollr App (available for download from Play Store & App Store.) It is currently available to buy from Amazon and Flipkart and is priced at Rs. 6499.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 13

INDIA BIKE NEWS

Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster for `11.11 lakh British premium motorcycle brand Triumph has launched the latest Bonneville Speedmaster for the Indian market. The bike has been priced at Rs. 11,11,500 (ex-showroom India). The Bonneville Speedmaster was first showcased in India at the India Bike Week in 2017. The company has finally brought in the much awaited motorcycle which offers customers a classic British custom laid back motorcycle.

The Bonneville Speedmaster features a 1200cc parallel twin cylinder engine. The motor is able to churn out 76bhp@6100rpm and 106Nm@4000rpm. The engine has been mated to a 6-speed transmission.

Triumph is offering a lot of technology on the new 2018 Bonneville Speedmaster.

The company has added a Full LED DRL and headlamp setup, single button cruise control, ride by wire, ABS, switchable traction control, torque assist clutch, engine immobaliser key, multifunction display and more than 130 plus accessories to customise the bike with.

Royal Enfield launches new Thunderbird 350X & 500X Royal Enfield, a popular motorcycle brand in India has launched yet another cruiser motorcycle for the Indian market, the Thunderbird X. The brand known for its retro styled motorcycle has launched a more contemporary looking cruiser in a bid to stay relevant in the country’s changing motorcycle scenario. The Thunderbird 350X has been launched for Rs. 1,56,489 while the Thunderbird 500X has been launched for Rs. 1,98,878, both prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

The Thunderbird X is a factory built cruiser with a custom bike look. It is essentially another variant of the Thunderbird as the name suggests. The Thunderbird X features an all blacked out theme and comes in two different colour options for both the 350cc and 500cc versions. The Thunderbird 500X is being offered to customers in Getaway Orange and Drifter Blue while the Thunderbird 500X is being offered in Whimsical White and Roving Red.

14 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

Harley Davidson India launches two new Softail motorcycles

The iconic American motorcycle brand Harley Davidson has announced the launch of two new motorcycles - Softail Deluxe & Softail Low Rider for its Indian lineup.

The Softail Deluxe has been priced at Rs. 17.99 lakh (ex-showroom India) while the Softail Low Rider is priced at Rs. 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom India). These new motorcycles feature a stiffer and much lighter frame which has been designed to utilise the high torque output derived from the dual counter balanced Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. Harley has also bolted on high performance dual bending valve front suspension and an easily adjustable hidden rear monoshock. The company claims the new models launched today are faster, lighter and better handling than any of the other big twin cruiser predecessors that they sold.

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INDIA BIKE NEWS

Classic Kawasaki Z900RS introduced at `15.30 lakh

India Kawasaki Motors has introduced the retro and classic Z900RS in India.

The Z900RS is a perfect concoction of 1970s’ original king of cool Z1 and modern Z900, which has the every potential to satisfy the desire of riders.

historically renowned for their great-sounding exhausts, this the first time that Kawasaki has conducted sound research to craft a model’s ideal exhaust note.

The Z900RS, made in Kawasaki factory of Japan, has been successful in Europe, Japan & USA. In India the classic Z900RS will be available in candytone brown / candytone orange and its price will be 15,30,000 Exshowroom.

The Z900RS is equipped with advance features like KRTC (Kawasaki Traction Control), LED headlight, multi-function LCD screen nestled between dual analogue-style speedometers and tachometer dials.

Backed by Kawasaki’s latest rider support technology, the engine and the frame get benefitted from the latest in advanced analysis technology.

Conceived as an homage to the legendary Z1, it is powered by a liquidcooled 900cc-class In-Line Four – an engine choice that makes Z900RS unique in this category. While Kawasaki In-Line Four engines are

In order to create an engine character the Z900RS was tuned for low-mid range, delivering strong high-rpm operation that facilitates control for riders of all skill. Below 7,000 min -1, the engine pulls more strongly than Z900. Stylish engine fins built into the cylinder head create the image of an air-cooled engine – a nod to the Z900RS’ heritage, which traces back to the Z1.

Honda X-Blade motorcycle bookings open; Priced at sub-`79,000 Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. has announced that bookings have been opened for the new 160cc sporty motorcycle X-Blade. Customers can book their X-Blade from their nearest Honda dealership. The X-Blade was unveiled at the recent Auto Expo 2018.

Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Senior Vice President - Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Honda unveiled its 4th brand new model of 2018 – the X-Blade at Auto Expo 2018. We are indeed very excited to receive unprecedented response from Generation Z. We are happy to open the bookings for all-new Honda

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X-Blade today. Delighting Young Indian trendsetters with revolutionary segment first features, Honda’s ultimate head turner X-Blade will surprise Indian youth with its aggressive price of under Rs.79,000 (Ex-showroom, Delhi). The X-Blade deliveries will start from the middle of March on first-come-firstserve basis.”

The X-Blade is powered by a 162.71 cc HET engine which promises Honda refinement and reliability. The all new digital instrumentation comes with a service due indicator and gear position indicator. The long 1347mm wheelbase and the wider 130 section tubeless rear tyre enhance stability in bad roads and ensures comfort during longer rides.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 15

INDIA BIKE NEWS

TVS NTorq 125 scooter priced at `58,750 TVS Motor Company has announced its entry into the 125cc scooter segment in India. The company launched the NTorq 125 for Rs. 58,750 (ex-showroom Delhi).

TVS is also offering the NTorq with an exclusive technology platform - TVS SmartXonnect, making it India’s first connected scooter.

The NTorq has been designed for the youth and comes with a state-of-the-art CVTi-REVV 3Valve engine. The TVS NTorq gets features such as bluetooth enabled mobile phone connectivity, navigation assist, multiple modes such as - Street, Sport, Ride Stats, lap timer, app enabled parking locator, app assistance, engine kill switch, engine oil temperature display on speedometer and a top speed recorder.

The TVS NTORQ 125 comes with a 124.79cc, single cylinder, 4 stroke, 3 valve, air cooled SOHC engine which is capable of producing 9.25hp at 7500rpm and 10.5Nm of torque at 5500rpm. The company claims the scooter is able to achieve a top speed of 95kmph and good acceleration figures.

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V ABS at `1.07 lakh

Two-wheeler manufacturer, TVS Motor Company, has introduced the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V with ABS for a price of Rs 1,07,485 (exshowroom Delhi). The carburetor variant of the premium motorcycle now comes with a first-in- segment Dual- Channel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS variant can be distinguished from other versions by an ABS sticker on the right side of the front mud guard.

The new generation Dual-Channel ABS unit on the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V has been developed through extreme and extensive research on the race track.

(Read full review report on Page 27)

Bajaj unveils new 2018 Avenger Street 180 at `84,499 Bajaj Auto has launched the Avenger Street 180 in India which will be added to their lineup of the new 2018 Street 220 and the Cruise 220 range. The Avenger Street 180 will replace the existing Avenger Street 150 motorcycle. Bajaj has upgraded the engine from a 150cc to a 180cc in a bid to consolidate its hold in the classic motorcycle segment. The bike has been priced at Rs. 84,499 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The new 2018 Avenger Street 180 comes with features such as a new roadster design headlamp with LED DRLs, new graphics with a larger insignia, low and long profile, black alloy wheels and a rubberised rear grab.

The Avenger Street 180 comes with the proven DTS-i engine that is capable of producing 15.2hp and a low to mid range torque of 13.7Nm. Bajaj has enhanced the rear suspension by increase the suspension travel by 12pc. Bajaj is offering the new avenger in Ebony Black and spicy Red colours.

16 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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INDIA BIKE NEWS

Suzuki Hayabusa 2018 Edition debuts for `13,87,623

Ducati Panigale V4 pre-bookings open for 20 units in 2018

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited has launched the 2018 edition of Hayabusa – one of its most iconic and widely recognised motorcycles in the world. The 2018 Edition has been launched in two new colours – Pearl Mira Red/Pearl Glacier White and Glass Sparkle Black.

Ducati India announced the start of bookings for the new Panigale V4, the closest Ducati possible to its MotoGP counterpart. In 2018, the Panigale V4 will be limited to 20 units in India and each of these reservation made before 31st May, will include an exclusive numbered memorabilia on delivery.

The Hayabusa is available across all Suzuki Big-Bike dealerships for Rs 13, 87,623 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The new Ducati Panigale V4 will be available in two variants; the Panigale V4 - the essence of the new sports bike - and the Panigale V4 S. The latter mounts Öhlins suspension featuring the Smart EC 2.0 system with a new adjustment interface and top-drawer components such as forged aluminium wheels and the lithium ion battery.

Powered by a 1340cc in-line 4-cylinder fuel-injected, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that delivers a broad wave of torque for effortless acceleration, the Hayabusa is imported as CKD (Completely Knocked Down) Kits and is assembled at the SMIPL factory in Manesar, Gurugram.

The Panigale V4 and V4 S have been launched at an introductory price of INR 20,53,000 & INR 25,29,000 (Ex-showroom India) with deliveries starting in July 2018.

Hero MotoCorp unveils Hero Xtreme 200R motorcycle Hero MotoCorp unveiled the all-new Xtreme 200R motorcycle in the Capital. The new bike joins the rapidly growing premium motorcycle segment in the country. The Hero Xtreme 200R will be available for sale across the company dealerships from April 2018.

The muscular and aggressively styled Hero Xtreme 200R is powered by an all-new BS IV compliant 200cc air-cooled engine, packed with intuitive technology and pefect riding ergonomics. The motorcycle has been designed and developed by Hero MotoCorp’s in-house R&D team based at the Hero Centre of Innovation and Technology in Jaipur.

The 200 cc engine is air-cooled and produces a maximum output of 18.15hp @ 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 17.1Nm @ 6500rpm. The engine offers abundant power and torque across the rev bands. The bike races from 0 to 60kmph in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 114kmph.

The all-new Xtreme 200R comes with a lightweight yet stiff frame which offers precise handling in tight corners and stability at high speeds.

The bike has a conventional fork front suspension and mono shock rear suspension. In front it has 276 disc (ABS optional) while at rear it has a 220disc. The alloy wheels comes with 100/8017 tubeless tyre in front and 130/70-R17 tubeless tyre at rear. The bike has a self and kick starting system. The all-new Hero Xtreme 200R has a kerb weight of 146kg. Pricing of the motorcycle will be announced later.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 17

FEATURES

8TH EDITION OF 21 GUN SALUTE INTERNATIONAL VINTAGE CAR RALLY

A royal rendezvous

18 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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FEATURES

Report: Motown India Bureau

A

s Delhi bade farewell to its wintery days, it welcomed on its roads several exotic jewels of the automobile world.

The occasion was the 8th edition of the Madan Mohan founded 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally & Concours Show.

The two-days show marked not just a display of the rare beauties, but a rally from the iconic and historic India Gate to the outskirts of the city in Gurugram’s Ambience Greens Golf Course.

The event, which now ranks among the leading international automotive events of Asia, saw participation from not only Indian owners in the country including several from the erstwhile royal families, but also from vintage and classic car owners in USA, UK, Australia,

Singapore, and Italy.

The rally was flagged off from India Gate by Chief Guest Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Culture, (Independent Charge), Government of India on February 7, 2018in the presence of several dignitaries including Ajay Chowdhury, Joint Commissioner, Delhi Police, Guest of Honour Vinay Pratap Singh (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Gurugram, Luigi Estro, Charge de affairs, Embassy of Italy, KTS Tulsi, President of HMCI, Subhash Goyal and V.P.Singh, Governor and Administrator of Punjab, among others. The vehicles covered a distance of 33 km.

The 1935 Chrysler Airstream C 6, owned by Yuvraj YograjSingh Chavda, the 1937 Steyr Daimler 220 owned by Yuvraj Harshvardhan Singh, 1929 341 B Cadillac and 1931 370 A Cadillac, owned by Dhananjai Singh Khimsar

Bentley Classic (best in class) - 1922 Bentley LeMans 3 Liter

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 19

FEATURES

Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn

20 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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FEATURES

Post War Classic European (Best in class): 1966 Volvo 122 Amazon

took part in the event this year.

This year the event showcased a wider representation of different makes and marques; the oldest participant being the 1903 Humberette.

One saw an array of Rolls Royce cars including the 1908 Silver Ghost, the 1930 Phantom II, the 1938 Phantom III and the 1965 Silver Cloud III, to name a few.

The 1922, three litre Bentley (Le Mans) and the 1937 4 ½ ltr Bentley 2 door tourer were also the highlights of the event.

Around 125 cars were present, all of them divided into sixteen classes. A wide-ranging period of the history of the motor car was covered.

Post war classic american (best in class) - 1960 Pontiac Parisienne

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In each of the 16 classes; rareness, history, state of

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 21

FEATURES

1903 Humber Humberette

1903 Humber Humberette

22 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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FEATURES

Fiat Balilla

conservation and upkeep were the main criteria taken into account by the exclusive jury panel when examining them to select the class winner.

Similar to the previous editions, the Concours Show was judged by an international jury panel, headed by Christian H. (Chris) Kramer - a classic car historian, value appraiser, F.I.V.A. Scrutineer & collection advisor, as the chief judge along Patrick Rollet – FIVA President; Quirina Louwman, who has been a judge at Chantilly, since its inception; RollsRoyce expert par excellence Paul Wood; Peter Larsen, a chronic gear

1886 Benz Motorwagen

head; Shin IchiEkko, founder of Maserati Club of Japan; Richard Adatto, one of the world’s experts on French aerodynamic cars; Siegfried Linke, Master Judge at Classic Car Club of America, David Cooper; Adolfo Orsi, known for owning the Maserati automobile maker; Matt Stone; Nigel Matthews; Ben Erickson; Dominik Fischlin; Christoph Grohe; Dr. Mark Moskowitz; Sam Movizio; J. Philip Rathgen; James Wood; Christian Philippsen; H Otto Ferdinand Wachs; Patrick Peter; Claus Mueller; Filip Bourgoo; Mathias Doutreleau; Francois Melcion; Ken Gross; Hugo Modderman; Gianfranco G. M. Gentile; Jochen Mass and many other

Roadster European (best in class) - 1963 Sunbeam Alpine SIII

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 23

FEATURES

Limousine (best in class) - 1940 Buick 90 Ltd

automotive luminaries.

“Crème de la crème” at the 21 Gun Salute Concours was Den Gidwani’s 1937 Rolls Royce 25/30 Gurney Nutting that bagged the Rolls Royce Classic and the Best of Show Trophy. Pre War Classic – European and the Best of Show – International was awarded to the Peter Mullin’s 1939 Delage D-8-120.

Amongst several cars at the show field, Ranjit Pratap’s 1966 Volvo 122 Amazon bagged the Post War Classic – European trophy. The Pre War

Classic – American category was won by the 1929 Graham Paige Tourer owned by YashvardhanRuia and the Post War Classic – American was taken by the deserving 1960 Pontiac Parisienne, owned by Jimmy Tata.

The Bentley Classic and Limousine category was won by Peter Briggs, 1922 Bentley LeMans 3 Liter and KTS Tulsi’s 1940 Buick 90 Ltd. Nitin Dossa’s, 1946 Chrysler Windsor won the prestigious FIVA Award (Preservation Class). Pre War Italian Class was bagged by H W Bhatnagar’s 1926 Fiat 503, the MG Classic was won by 1965 MBG – GT, owned by Usha Kothari.

Best of Show -1937 Rolls Royce 2530 Gurney Nutting

24 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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FEATURES

MG Motor India reconnects with its owners British carmaker MG Motor India (Morris Garages) organised an exclusive MG Owners Meet & Drive as part of the 21 Gun Salute Rally, a vintage and classic car rally held in the Capital. The exclusive MG Owners Meet & Drive was attended among others

by MG owners who had travelled from Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur and other places to participate in the rally.

The event was flagged off from Golf Course Ambience Greens in Gurgaon. The MG Owners Meet & Drive also celebrated its customers for their long association with the brand. The brand is

Rajeev Chaba presenting an award to the winner of MG Classic category Mrs. Usha Kothari from Delhi for her 1965 MGB GT at the 21 Gun Salute Rally

all set to deliver on the promise of creating compelling customer experiential events across India in the coming months.

MG cars part of the rally included roadsters and convertibles like 1935 MG P sports roader, 1946 MG TC and 1965 MG Midget among others. MG B was the most popular of the cars, with three models including the popular MG-B GT fastback. MG had recently launched a digital campaign to welcome the passionate MG owners who have owned and taken care of the classic cars from the marquee.

P Balendran, Executive Director, MG Motor India flagging off the MG Classic Cars Drive in Gurgaon on Sunday at 21 Gun Salute Rally

MG B & MG B GT

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 25

FEATURES

CLASS

WINNER (BEST IN CLASS)

OWNER

Pre War Classic : European

1939 Delage D-8-120

Peter Mullin

Pre War Classic : American

1929 Graham Paige Tourer

Yashvardhan Ruia

Post War Classic : European

1966 Volvo 122 Amazon

Ranjit Pratap

Post War Classic : American

1960 Pontiac Parisienne

Jimmy Tata

Convertible & Roadster : American

1952 Cadillac Serie 62 Convertible

Anirudh Kasliwal

Convertible & Roadster : European

1963 Sunbeam Alpine SIII

Ishtiyaq Nagree

Rolls Royce Classic

1937 Rolls Royce 25/30 Gurney Nutting

Den Gidwani

Bentley Classic

1922 Bentley LeMans 3 Liter

Peter Briggs

Limousine

1940 Buick 90 Ltd

KTS Tulsi

Preservation Class : Fiva Award

1946 Chrysler Windsor

Nitin Dossa

Pre War Italian Class

1926 Fiat 503

H W Bhatnagar

Post War Italian Class

1967 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior

Behram Ardeshir

Italian Piccolo

1955 Fiat 1100 (Colour Black)

S B Jatti

MG Classic

1965 MBG - GT

Usha Kothari

Best of Show - International

1939 Delage D-8-120

Peter Mullin

Best of Show

1937 Rolls Royce 25/30 Gurney Nutting

Den Gidwani

26 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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WHEELZ & ROADZ

A riding experience

TVS NTORQ 125

BULL’S-EYE S P EC I FI C ATI ONS

ENGINE 124.79cc Air cooled, Single

Cylinder

TRANSMISSION CVT POWER 9.27hp@7500rpm TORQUE 10.5Nm@5500rpm TYRES Front: 100/80 R12 Tubeless Rear: 110/80 R10 Tubeless PRICE `58,750/-

(Ex-Showroom Delhi)

Report: Joshua David Luther Photography: Afsar Baig

T

he TVS NTorq 125 is inspired by the design of a fighter jet and gets a unique style that is sure to set it apart in a sea of scooters. With the launch of the NTorq 125, TVS has also ushered in an era of connected scooters in India. We got our hands on this scooter at the TVS facility in Hosur.

DESIGN AND STYLING As far as its design is concerned, TVS has it spot on with the NTorq 125. The colour schemes are quite bold. The edgy and aggressive looks ensure the scooter is in vogue. The headlamp cluster does look a bit dated but blends in well with the design

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scheme of the facade. It also sports LED batwing shaped DRLs that lend this scooter a modish touch. The side panels of the NTorq 125 are covered with carbon fibre like finish and as usual TVS has incorporated excellent build quality, fit and finish on this 125cc premium scooter.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 27

WHEELZ & ROADZ A riding experience

The scooter rode exceptionally well over the cobbled path and was able to handle most undulations with finesse. TVS’s build quality does really stand out here and is truly remarkable.

Watch the video review of TVS NTorq on the Motown India YouTube Channel

28 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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#TVSNTORQ Adding to the butch looks are chunky 100/80 R12 tyres in the front and 110/80 R12 tyres in the rear. The rear adorns a jet styled afterburner and a ‘T’ shaped LED stop lamp. The looks of this scooter are quite contemporary and one glance at the gaming console inspired digital instrument cluster will tell you the same. This is another area where the TVS NTorq 125 goes ahead of its competitors and has become the first manufacturer in India to retail a connected scooter in the 125cc category.

Riders can now pair their mobile devices via an App to the instrument cluster. This enables them to view who is calling, or who has sent an SMS. It also gets a navigation assist feature which enables the rider with directions to their destination. One can also use the App to locate the scooter at its last parked location.

10.5Nm at 5500rpm. The scooter is definitely more powerful than its contemporaries but it is slightly on the heavier side weighing in at 116.1kgs. That said the torque is just enough to get the job done. The mid range is where the NTorq comes into its own and begins gathering momentum. The scooter is quick to 60kmph and will carry on the momentum right upto 85kmph post which the response is a bit sluggish and the acceleration feels dragged. TVS has mapped the 0-60kmph time of the scooter at 9 seconds and have clocked it’s top speed at 95kmph.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

The NTorq 125 rides on telescopic forks in the front and a gas charged hydraulic coil spring in the rear. The suspension is on mildly stiff and it rides very well over the beaten path. We had a go on the NTorq at the TVS test facility in Hosur. The scooter rode exceptionally well over the cobbled path and was able to handle most undulations with finesse. TVS’s build quality does really stand out here and is truly remarkable. Aside from looking great on the scooter, the tyres add quite a bit of utility. They grip the road rather well and even while cornering the scooter one feels quite confident. Braking on this scooter is facilitated by a 220mm petal disc in the front which comes with a single piston caliper and a 130mm drum brake in the rear.

The brakes are progressive and get the job done in time.

We conducted quite a few brake tests, down from different speeds and each time were quite satisfied with the results.

Powering the NTorq 125 is a 124.79cc single cylinder air cooled engine which turns 9.27hp at 7500rpm and

VERDICT

Adding to the comfort and convenience quotient, the TVS NTorq 125 comes with a luggage hook, dual side handle lock, large storage space with light and USB charging, external fuel filling and a patented easy to operate centre stand. The seating posture, seat cushioning and rider comfort are reasonably good. The large footboard also caters to riding comfort for tall passengers. TVS has also fashioned unique looking split grab rails that add to the sporty looks of the scooter and yet do not reduce functionality.

One simply cannot ignore the changing times around us and bringing in a connected scooter is definitely the herald of a new era. The App based connectivity adds a lot of functional utility and practicality to the NTorq 125. That combined with dapper looks and a solid ride and build ensures TVS has hit the bull’s eye!

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 29

COMPACT SUV COMPARISON

MARUTI SUZUKI VITARA BREZZA Vs FORD ECOSPORT Vs TATA NEXON Report: Joshua David Luther; Photography: Afsar Baig & Neeraj Pawar

E

ver watched the Master Chef series on television? As the series nears its completion, a whole lot of chefs are eliminated, finally leaving the room with a handful of the best. Then the experts go about choosing the best among them and one chef is finally crowned the Master Chef.

It’s a difficult decision but the winner has an edge over the rest. It’s a similar case when it comes to comparing the compact SUVs. We chose three of the best and went about finding out who is a winner. Here we compare the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, the Ford EcoSport and the Tata Nexon.

COMFORT The dimensions and build of all three vehicles are more or less the same. The Ford EcoSport is the longest and the tallest amongst the lot but only by a small margin when compared to the Vitara Brezza. The Tata Nexon is a good 40mm shorter in

height than the EcoSport. But what the Nexon loses out on height it compensates for in width, this Compact SUV from Tata is 1811mm wide, which is 46mm wider than the EcoSport and 21mm wider than the Vitara Brezza. The EcoSport is a hands down winner when it comes to the wheelbase, which measures in at 2519mm. That’s a good 21mm longer than the Tata Nexon and 19mm longer than the Brezza. But on taking a closer look we found the Nexon to have more leg room in the rear and the Brezza had the most head room in the rear.

Both the Nexon and the EcoSport have a nearly identical boot space, the EcoSport being slightly bigger at 352 litres, just 2 litres more than the Nexon. Boot space on Brezza sits a good 24 litres below that of the EcoSport.

FEATURES

The Ford EcoSport can easily be identified as the most premium and the ride quality

The Brezza when launched was one of the most competitive offerings and this was primarily thanks to its feature loaded

is the best in this latest offering from Ford.

The driver’s seat of the Nexon offered the most comfort with the bolstering holding us in our seat better than the Brezza and the EcoSport. Despite the Nexon being the widest, it is the Brezza that offers the most shoulder room. Seating on the Nexon is the best in the rear as well with the seat squab extensions adding to under thigh support. The Vitara Brezza gets the best driver point of view and clear visibility of all four corners of the car. The cabin in the Brezza also feels the most roomy and open.

The Ford EcoSport has a tilt and telescopic steering adjustment while the Nexon and Brezza come with only a tilt adjustment for its steering.

Watch the comparison video on the Motown India YouTube Channel

30 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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#MARUTISUZUKIVITARABREZZAVSFORDECOSPORTVSTATANEXON

COMFORT While the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza has just the right amount of features, making it a great value for money product, the Tata Nexon has some unique and industry first features but misses out critical features. The FORD ECOSPORT gets some unique features and gains an edge over its competitors with more safety features.

package. But the game has moved on from there and other contenders come very well endowed. Among the three, certain features are common in their top line offerings.

These include Automatic Air conditioning, electrically adjustable and retractable ORVMs, push button start/ stop, keyless entry, height adjustable seatbelts, steering mounted controls, voice commands, rear parking sensors and camera, touch screen infotainment systems with USB, Bluetooth and AUX connectivity and Navigation. Both the Brezza and the EcoSport come with additional features such as automatic headlamps, cruise control and rain sensing wipers. This, however, is missing on the Nexon.

But don’t be too quick to judge! Each of these compact SUVs come with some or the other additional features and this is where we have got to give the Nexon some major points. Tata has gone a few steps ahead with some innovative features and additions on the Nexon. These include drive modes (ECO, SPORT and CITY), wearable key fob, text and WhatsApp message read out and reply using voice commands, voice command for climate control, umbrella holders in the doors, cooled glove box, voice alerts for door ajar, seat belt, low fuel, parking brake and service reminder. Even the Ford EcoSport gets some stand alone features such as ambient lighting in the footwell, electro chromic IRVM, Emergency flashing brake light, Dual USB ports and puddle lamps.

Tata has taken practicality to another level with these unique features and that makes things a little sticky for the competition

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 31

COMPACT SUV COMPARISON

FEATURES While the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza has just the right amount of features, making it a great value for money product, the Tata Nexon has some unique and industry first features but misses out critical features. The FORD ECOSPORT gets some unique features and gains an edge over its competitors with more safety features.

but then Ford does have on its side some safety features which the other two are not offering at all. Aside from the standard ABS with EBD and dual front airbags, Ford is also offering EBA, ESC, TCS and HLA, side and curtain airbags on the top spec EcoSport. Tata is also offering an 8 speaker Harman sound system in the Nexon which we found to be better than both that of the Brezza as well as the EcoSport. We found the touch interface of infotainment unit in the Ford EcoSport the easiest to use while the clarity of the reverse parking camera in the Vitara Brezza was better than the other two.

PERFORMANCE If it is purely performance that has to be evaluated there can only be one clear winner and that is the Tata Nexon. The new 1.5L Revotorq diesel engine is simply a gem and has been tuned to deliver an absolutely phenomenal driving experience.

This coupled with distinct drive modes makes the Nexon a very lucrative offering in the segment. The 1.5L 4 cylinder engine in the Nexon turns about 108hp at 3750rpm and 260Nm from 1500rpm to 2750rpm.

The tuning of this diesel engine is such that the turbo kicks in earlier than that of the competition. While testing the acceleration and braking of the three compact SUVs we noticed the Nexon was the quickest to a 100kmph but it was the EcoSport the

PERFORMANCE While the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza offers a great point of view for the driver with a great feel of the steering, the Ford EcoSport is the most sure footed at high speeds and has great braking abilities. The TATA NEXON offers the most solid suspension on broken roads and in off road conditions and accelerates the fastest 0 to 100kmph.

32 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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#MARUTISUZUKIVITARABREZZAVSFORDECOSPORTVSTATANEXON

DESIGN The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza offers the right blend of design, space and practicality. The Ford EcoSport has a very mature and butch design, the interiors are premium and look sophisticated. The TATA NEXON is striking and butch and if you want to make a statement then this is definitely your weapon of choice.

stopped the earliest.

The Ford EcoSport on the other hand feels a little more mature and smooth.

The engine has been tuned with precision and the buildup is more linear than expected. To drive, the EcoSport feels more refined in comparison to the Brezza and the Nexon.

Even the NVH levels on the Ford EcoSport are better than both the Nexon and the Brezza. Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for city commuters and that is where the Brezza picks up some points, its fuel efficiency is better than both the EcoSport and the Nexon.

The steering as well in the Brezza has been weighted well and feels solid to hold and renders a comfortable drive in the city.

While driving down a beaten path, we found the suspension of the Tata Nexon to absorb most of the bumps and undulations exceedingly well. The Nexon also has the best in class ground clearance and that just adds to your confidence off road. Tata’s 1.5L Revotorq engine also churns the most torque amongst the three. On road, however, the EcoSport felt a little more stable to drive in comparison to the Nexon and the Brezza. Tata’s Nexon also has the smallest turning circle radius making it quite easy to maneuver around the city and tight parking spaces.

DESIGN All three of the contenders have a unique look and sport very different design philosophies. We found the Tata Nexon to

be the most striking amongst the lot with the ability to easily stand out in a crowd.

Despite being the oldest amongst the three, the Brezza retains contemporary characteristics and its boxy design is still appealing. The dual tone colour scheme on the Brezza also adds to its modish appeal.

But Tata has ensured an uber modern and butch look on the Nexon. The profile of the tyres, muscular wheel arches and its broad width further compliment the brutish appeal of the Nexon. The Ford EcoSport on the other hand has shed its sleek looks and sports a more rugged appearance. It sports Ford’s latest design philosophy and looks quite mature.

The EcoSport also gets 17 inch alloys which do look quite dapper while both the Brezza and the Nexon get 16 inch ones.

All three compact SUVs sport projector headlamps and LED DRLs. To look at the EcoSport is the tallest but the Nexon is low slung and wide giving it a squat SUV

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stance. Here again the Brezza scores well with the right combination of width and height. The interiors of the Nexon as well are quite futuristic and look contemporary, the build quality is good. Even the Brezza looks modern but when compared, the EcoSport feels more premium with excellent fit, finish and design.

VERDICT Boiling it down to price, the Tata Nexon is more affordable than the Brezza but only by a few thousand rupees. Ford has priced the EcoSport more than a lakh of rupees over both the Nexon and the Vitara Brezza. But then again Ford is also quite a few safety features like traction control, electronic brake assist, electronic stability control, hill launch assist as well as side and curtain airbags apart from the dual front airbag and ABS setup which is offered on the Brezza and the Nexon.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 33

COMPACT SUV COMPARISON VERDICT If a well rounded package is what you are looking for then the FORD ECOSPORT is our choice as it offers a balance of design, features, safety, performance but is priced marginally higher than the other two. The Ford Ecosport is followed by the Tata Nexon which edges past Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza in terms of our preference.

WINNER FORD ECOSPORT

TATA NEXON

PARAMETER

MARUTI SUZUKI VITARA BREZZA

Engine

1248cc, 4 Cylinder, DDIS200

1498cc, 4 Cylinder

1497cc,turbocharged revotorq

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

5-Speed Manual

6-Speed Manual

Fuel Efficiency

24.3kmpl

23.0kmpl

20.73kmpl

Fuel Tank capacity

48 Litres

52 Litres

44 Litres

Power

88.5bhp@6600rpm

98.9hp@3750rpm

108.4hp@3750rpm

Torque

200Nm@1750rpm

205Nm@1750rpm

260Nm@1500-2750rpm

5.2 meters

5.3 meters

5.1 meters

Front

Mc Pherson Strut

Mc Pherson Strut

Mc Pherson Strut

Rear

Torsion Beam

Coupled Torsion Beam

Torsion Beam

Tilt

Tilt and Telescopic

Tilt

Front

Disc

Disc

Disc

Rear

Drum

Drum

Drum

Acceleration Test 0-100kmph

13.47 seconds

12.79 seconds

12.31 seconds

Braking Test 100-0kmph

5.55 seconds

5.06 seconds

5.88

Tyres

215/60 R16

205/50 R17

215/60, R16

Cargo Volume

328 litres

352 litres

350 litres

Length

3995mm

3998mm

3994mm

Width

1790mm

1765mm

1811mm

Height

1640mm

1647mm

1607mm

Wheelbase

2500mm

2519mm

2498mm

Ground Clearance

198mm

200mm

209mm

1170-1195kgs

1304Kgs

1305kgs

Rs. 9,73,108

Rs. 10,89,300

Rs. 9,62,194

Turning Radius Suspension Steering Column Braking

Kerb Weight Price (ex-showroom Delhi)

34 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

Very Significant

Report: P.Tharyan, Joshua David Luther & Aakash S. Paul; Photography: Afsar Baig & Neeraj Panwar

O

ne wonders why there were so many absentees at the 14th edition of the Auto Expo 2018. But that did not in any way dampen the spirit of the show. Neither did the location of the show at Greater Noida on the outskirts of New Delhi. Nor was the spirit dampened by the growing influence of social media which offers every kind of information in a virtual format. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than the feel of the real world.

The exposition, jointly organised by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), was held from February 9 – 14, 2018. It saw more than 600,000 people converge on these days to catch a glimpse of the show that witnessed over 500 product displays from 119 exhibitors. This included 53 vehicle manufacturers showcasing over 100 products, 22 launches, 81 product unveilings and 18 concept showcases. There were 14 new brand launches and around 25 electric vehicles were showcased in this edition of the Auto Expo. A total of 11 start-ups marked presence in India through this edition of Auto Expo 2018. Motown India was one of the media partners to the show.

Maruti Suzuki e-Survivor Concept, an EV design concept and working model of next generation Suzuki Hybrid system (HEV).

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 35

CARS BMW INDIA / MINI INDIA BMW India launched the much anticipated first-ever BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo and the all-new BMW M5. The first-ever BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo was unveiled by Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary sportsman, in the presence of Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India at the BMW pavilion. The company also launched the new BMW X6 xDrive35i M Sport, BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé. The next-generation BMW X3 that will be launched in India later in 2018 was also unveiled at Auto Expo 2018.

BMW ‘i’ took the covers off the all-new BMW i8 Roadster, a high-performance hybrid sports car, which will also be launched in India later in 2018. The all-new BMW i3s, the all-electric premium urban car, was also revealed at the BMW pavilion.

MINI India unveiled the next-generation all-new MINI Countryman which will be locally-produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai. It will be available in three variants: two petrol variants - MINI Countryman Cooper S and MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired and one diesel variant - MINI Countryman Cooper SD.

Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha at the DC pavilion

Mini Countryman

Sachin Tendulkar, former cricketer, at the BMW pavilion

DC DESIGN Film actress Sonakshi Sinha unveiled DC TCA, a car made

by Dilip Chhabria controlled DC Design. TCA an abbreviation for ‘Titanium, Carbon and Aluminium’ and the DC TCA is the latest creation from Dilip Chhabria. The mid-engine, powered by a euro 6, 3800 CC-320 HP, 6 speed automatic transmission is a powerful car that draws inspiration from ‘La Ferrari’ and the ‘Pagani Zonda’. The DC TC’ will be available for a limited production run of 299 cars, each personally signed by Dilip Chhabria.

DC Hammer

HONDA CARS INDIA

New Honda Amaze

36 | MOTOWN INDIA | MARCH 2018

The Honda Cars pavilion witnessed the global unveiling of the next gen Honda Amaze, an all-new Honda CR-V and the comeback of the Honda Civic. The company unveiled the Next Generation Honda Amaze in presence of Takahiro Hachigo, President & Representative Director, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. The 2nd gen Amaze is scheduled to be launched in India in FY 18-19. The company also unveiled the all new 5th Generation Honda CR-V and much awaited 10th Generation Honda Civic which makes a comeback to the Indian market.

Both these models are also scheduled to be launched in India in FY 2018-19. The globally acclaimed 10th Generation Civic will also be introduced in both petrol and diesel in India. On display were the Honda Sports EV Concept and the Honda NeuV, Clarity Fuel Cell (Honda’s most advanced Zero Emission Vehicle), among others.

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

HOT WHEELS Hot Wheels from the house of Mattel Toys showcased two life-size models inspired

by Hot Wheels die-cast models. The showcase, representing best of classic and modern times, was designed as an ode to the Hot Wheels 50 year journey since its launch in 1968. While one car depicted the vintage, retro era of the 60s, the second car displayed a modern, millennial style, representing designs and innovation of the 21st century.

HYUNDAI MOTOR INDIA Hyundai Motor India launched the new 2018 Elite i20 and showcased its global EV Ioniq. The premium cascade design high gloss front grille gives sporty and bold stance to the new 2018 Elite i20. Other features include projector headlamps with LED DRL, positioning and cornering lamps, front air curtains, uniquely designed stylish tail lamps and R16 diamond-cut alloy wheels. The new 2018 Elite i20 comes with first-insegment dual tone exteriors with red and orange interior colour packs to further boost sporty styling of the new 2018 Elite i20. The new 2018 Elite i20 has engine options of 1.4 U2 CRDi Diesel (88.76hp/4,000 RPM and 219.66 Nm /1,500-2,750 RPM) that comes with 6-Speed Manual Transmission, 1.2 Kappa Dual VTVT Petrol (81.86hp/6,000 RPM and 114.72 Nm /4,000RPM) powered with 5-Speed Manual Transmission. The company also launched ‘Swachh Can’, a portable bin for all Hyundai Cars under its new CSR Pillar for India- ‘Swachh Move’ supporting the nationwide campaign Swacch Bharat Abhiyan. The new CSR Pillar – ‘Swachh Move’ was launched in the presence of Y K Koo, MD& CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) and Hyundai Corporate Brand Ambassador Shah Rukh Khan.

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan and Y K Koo , MD & CEO, HMIL

JK TYRE JK Tyre & Industries Ltd put on display high technology tyres including India’s largest off-the-road (OTR) tyre outside Hall No. 1. Visitors to the Expo also experienced the thrill of off-roading at the JK Tyre Ranger Off-road Experience Zone, where they could ride with national champions like Hari Singh through a series of hurdles like a 20-feet metallic hill construction, a 12-feet uneven surface made of boulders and logs and a 30 degree slanted turn.

The Blaze Rydr Range Zone outside Hall No. 1 was designed to give visitors an understanding of the premium two-wheeler Blaze tyres, built in with hybrid technology. Designed to emulate the success JK Tyre enjoys in the commercial vehicle segment, visitors could experience the tyres on Enfield motorcycles in a 3D setting.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 37

CARS

INTERVIEW WITH V. JASKIRAT SINGH NAGRA, DIRECTOR, IRONSCORPION HMV (JSN) WILLIAM DWAINE JUNGEN, DIRECTOR, IRONSCORPION HMV (WD) To what extent have you progressed in brining your massive offroad vehicle into India?

JSN: The current status of the project in terms of progress we have made into getting the Iron Scorpion into India is that we have exhibited it in a competition held in the country, to demonstrate the abilities of the vehicle. In connection with that we showcased it at the Auto Expo 2018 with a hope to address a larger audience and potential consumers. Going forward, we are going to be exhibiting it at the Defence Expo to target the institutional market which eventually would be an area of interest for us. We have also been able to have a localisation plan in place, that would help us achieve the localisation target we have in place for the vehicle. This we believe would be the corner stone of success which would be under the Make in India initiative of the Indian government. So we intend rolling it out with a high degree of localisation in the very first instance.

Before you entered into making such a vehicle, what have you been doing as a professional?

JSN: I have been in the corporate sector for the last 23 years which was totally different i.e. is electronics and telecommunications.

But mechanical engineering and automotive engineering were

something I was very passionate about. I have been pursuing this as a weekend hobby for many years, till about five years ago when I got into customising off-road vehicles for competition and expedition and I had set up a company by the name of Sarbloh Motors which specialises in extreme off road builds in India. We have had much success in different formats of off roading including building specialised expedition vehicles which were covered in large number of media shoots and programmes on national television.

I would say in my case my hobby has become a profession now and culmination of that would be to successfully introduce the Iron Scorpion in partnership with Dwaine, my friend from the US. We are more than a billion people in India, how were you able to spot Jaskirat?

WD: It’s been a long and evolving relationship that we have been working on for approximately last six years. It started as my buddy and partner Jaskirat sent me a cold call around six years ago for wanting to be involved in a Scorpion. And through that initial call, this kind of evolved. Not only have we come into a mutual business relationship, but we have become very close friends and we have actually become as we say in America, “Brothers from another Mother”.

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CARS Can you talk about IronScorpion HMV entity you have formed?

WD: It is a joint Indian-US partnership in which both entities are directors and controllers of the happenings of the company. The name of the company is IronScorpion HMV Pvt Ltd. The HMV stands for High Mobility Vehicles. Its goal is to manufacture the Scorpion platform for the Indian market while concentrating on the Made in India standards and making the vehicle fully road legal and acceptable by the Indian government.

Dwaine, what’s been your experience making such vehicles in the US? WD: We have done a lot of work and special projects for the United States government both for the Army and the general defence use. We have done major demonstrations of proof of concepts for the Army both in ground vehicle capability as well as robotics. The biggest usage of the Scorpion in the United States is in extreme off road use and recreational users who want to push the limits of off road capability.

We do have exposure in industrial market where the Scorpion is used for powerline patrol or electric utility. But the majority of the usage of the Scorpion is mainly for extreme off road recreation.

What is the kind of vehicle you would be finally making in India?

Would it look like the one you displayed at the Auto Expo-The Motor show 2018?

JSN: The footprint of the vehicle that you saw at the Auto Expo would be the footprint of the vehicle we would be bringing into India.

The essence and spirit of the Scorpion would not be toned down for the Indian market. The compliance requirement that the Indian government would have in terms of its specifications like right hand drive, safety norms, etc will be adhered to. The general nature of the vehicle would be the same you saw at the Auto Expo. Going forward, there would be some degree of customisation which might involve specific requirements by customers. For all practical purposes that you see in the US or have seen at the Auto Expo, would be the same Scorpion that would come to the market.

Who would be your customers in India?

JSN: We have been trying to categorise our customers into two major categories- institutional which going forward would be the bread

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winners for us, and then there would be recreational users. Within the recreational market there would be some hard core off roaders who want a vehicle that would be truly off road capable, rather than being adapted to do off-road work. When we say truly off road capable, we mean the vehicle is capable of off-road, rather than adding accessories that tow it up or pull it up during different stages, rather than being able to do so on its own. And like any niche market there would be customers who would buy it for the presence it would have on the road. Driving in a Scorpion even to a 5 star hotel and parking it on the porch is quite an attractive proposition to many.

And how would you categorise the institutional buyers?

JSN: If I were to draw up a wish list of institutional buyers I would be looking at the para military forces, the defence forces as a long term objective, and agencies like National Disaster Relief Organisation, forest departments, tea plantations, coffee plantations, etc.

What would be the specs and the price for such a vehicle in India?

JSN: A typical Scorpion comes with a 5.7 litre V8 petrol engine.

Alternatively we are in consultation with a large diesel engine manufacturer in India with whom we are able to finalise on a 2.8 litre four-cylinder engine for the more regular users. These vehicles will come equipped with very low ratio transmission, axles that would be able to withstand the stress that would be imposed on them, front and rear differential locks, all in all in every way capable of not only going off road but also being able to extricate itself if it gets in a bind. It would come with recovery tools for such a situation.

Pretty much the specifications that prevail in the US will drive the specifications of the vehicle for the Indian market. It is difficult to put a prince on it at this stage. We are in different stages of discussions with different suppliers for components, Also the associated compliance test that needs to be done, the costing of that is still being figured out. The retail price for a base model of such a vehicle in the US is around US $ 81,500 (Rs 52.77 lakh approx.) which we would definitely like to improve upon using the cost benefits India offers as aa supplier base as well as a manufacturing base. Also by bringing it under the Make in India initiative, we hope to leverage some incentives that could be eventually passed on to the customers in terms of the overall cost of ownership.

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CARS

INTERVIEW WITH PETER SCHREYER, CHIEF DESIGN OFFICER, KIA MOTORS What kind of efforts does it take to design a car? Are you and your team equally involved in a lot of hard work?

Well, design is always team work. My job is that of a coach or a contractor in a team. We have to help and lead the team in the right direction. There are a lot of people involved in designing; there are specialists for the exterior design, for the interiors, engineers, for the colour and trims, it’s a lot of work.

When you talk of a India specific car, does it mean its only for India or is meant for the global markets too?

In this case, it is a car that would be built in India (Kia SP concept).

But when I design a car I also look at it from the global perspective.

The design can be successful all over the world. But the concept we are doing for the Indian market we really want to take care of the Indian consumers and what they really want.

What are the factors that influence you in designing a car? We hear of cars that look like a panther or a tiger, how does it work for you?

For designers it is important to make something that is appreciated by the customers. We have a lot of influences coming from all kinds of directions. We have to keep a tab on art and architecture, what is going on in fashion, what kind of new sport equipment is coming and even the music that we hear. I travel a lot and its always the things you see as a culture that matters.

Does it become difficult for designers like you to design cars which are way down the price ladder?

This is especially the one thing that I love to do and is important.

Because I want every customer irrespective of the size or type of price range of car they are in, to step into their car in the morning to sit in their car and see their interior and have a rewarding kind of feeling. That is why we at Kia put a lot of emphasis on seat quality, which is difficult to make if you consider a certain price level. I try and do every car and treat it like a premium car.

What are your view of India and what it has to offer in terms of your design values?

I have not seen enough of India. I am going to make a lot more trips to India soon. When I was here the last year, we went to the

Taj Mahal. It was really very impressive to me. It had a long lasting impression on me. I had a very interesting experience then. We had a young nice guide with us. His name was Arjun. On the way back I was looking at all the cars and wondering what would be a suitable car for India and I asked Arjun what would be his dream car. I expected him to say it was a sports car. He said it was an SUV. This also gave me an impression and a push and this is what I think about when we showed the SP concept. It has a little bit of inspiration in it that I got when I was here.

The automobile industry is moving towards e-mobility which in essence would mean no more of the IC engines and the transmissions. With electric cars coming in, does it mean a new chapter in designing?

Currently the car industry is in a major transformation phase. These are very interesting times. Looking back at my career, it was always like an evolutionary process. Quality-wise, cars are a lot better than what they were 20 years ago. There are a lot of new technologies coming up now and a lot of new challenges. This is something that makes our job interesting. It is a challenge and it is not going to be easy. But it is something that will take us to the next level.

KIA MOTORS INDIA

Kia SP Concept

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Kia Motors India unveiled the striking new SP Concept, which made its public world premiere, alongside a showcase of 16 global models. Kia cars displayed at the AutoExpo 2018 included the Picanto, Rio, Stonic, Cerato, Cee’d, Soul EV, Cadenza, Stinger, Mohave, Sorento, Sportage, Grand Carnival, Niro Plug In Hybrid and the Optima Hybrid.

The SP Concept provided a glimpse of what’s in store for motoring enthusiasts once Kia kicks off retail sales in India in the second half of 2019. Inspired by Indian heritage and driven by advanced technology, the SP Concept is proof of the company’s plans to introduce cars that cater to the changing paradigm of the Indian market in the near future.

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018 MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd unveiled its plans to shape the ‘Future of Mobility’ wherein it highlighted the company’s future-ready suite of unique passenger and mass mobility products, concepts and solutions built around its ‘3Cs’ philosophy of Clean, Connected and Convenient. As India’s EV pioneer, Mahindra also displayed its widest range of electric vehicles, including concepts and technology. These included the Udo, a stylish 2 seater electric pod concept; the Atom, a new age urban mobility solution for emerging India; the Treo, a cutting-edge Lithium-ion battery powered electric threewheeler; the e2o NXT, a refreshed version of the e2oPlus hatchback; the eKUV100, India’s first electric mini SUV; and the e-Cosmo, the company’s new electric bus.

Mahindra also showcased the SsangYong Motor’s new G4 Rexton, the global SUV with Mahindra badging, which will be launched in India with an all new brand name and the TUV Stinger, the first Indian convertible SUV.

Anand Mahindra, Executive Chairman, Mahindra Group, Rajan Wadhera, President - Automotive Sector and Pawan Goenka, MD, Mahindra & Mahindra

MARUTI SUZUKI Maruti Suzuki unveiled the Concept Future S. The concept vehicle has unique aggressive stance and posture and the interiors are bold and exciting. The Concept Future S will be redefining the compact vehicle design for the company in India. The design of the vehicle has been done in-house by Maruti Suzuki. This concept embodies the next level of design evolution in terms of proportions, body sculpting and other features. It’s a step in design language, claims Maruti Suzuki as the vehicle has integrated SUV features in compact dimensions, without disturbing the Concept Future S proportions. The vehicle was launched in the presence of Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Director & CEO, CV Raman, Senior Executive Director (Engineering) and RS Kalsi, Senior Executive Director (Marketing and Sales), Maruti Suzuki.

The company also showcased the e-Survivor Concept, an EV design concept and working model of next generation Suzuki Hybrid system (HEV). The e-Survivor Concept demonstrates Maruti Suzuki’s efforts in the direction of electric mobility and presents an innovative, futuristic vision of Maruti Suzuki. The e-Survivor depicts the new and exciting F.A.C.E of Suzuki’s intent for future mobility. It encompasses all e-Survivor Concept future possibilities …“Four-Wheel Drive, Autonomous, Connected & Electric.” The all-new Maruti Suzuki Swift was also launched at the show.

As a part of its road-safety efforts, Maruti Suzuki India Limited also created excitement and surprise among Auto Expo 2018 visitors when it organised a unique #PehniKya? flash mob to create awareness about seat belt use.

MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA Mercedes-Benz India launched the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 and showcased the unique E-Class All-Terrain and the futuristic Concept EQ.The price of the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 is Rs 2.73 crore and the Mercedes-Maybach S 560 is priced at Rs 1.94 crore (Ex-showroom All-India).

Other cars on display included the E-Class E 350 d, Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe, AMG GT R, GLS 350d 4MATIC, C-Class Cabriolet C 300, GLA 220d 4MATIC, C 250 d Edition C, GLC 220 d 4MATIC, AMG SLC 43 and F1 Car. L-R: Matthias Luehrs, Head, Region Overseas, Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Roland Folger, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India

PINNACLE SPECIALITY VEHICLES

Finetza

Pinnacle Speciality Vehicles unveiled the Finetza motor home. Cricketer Gautam Gambhir unveiled Pinnacle Speciality Vehicles’ bespoke range. Finetza is India’s first and best-inclass expandable motor home and the ultimate definition of luxury with finesse and style. The company also launched Opisia (modified executive business van), Magnifica (customised tourer), and Exhibica (modified product display van). The company revealed that the motor home customisation will approximately cost in the range of Rs 15 to Rs 25 lakh (only motor home) and Rs 50 Lakh+ for expandable motor home.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 43

CARS RENAULT INDIA Renault India showcased its global prowess led by Trezor – an all-electric Grand Tourer concept car, at the expo. Trezor has been awarded as the ‘Most Beautiful Concept Car’ at several global platforms. The vehicle was showcased in the presence of Fabrice Cambolive, Senior Vice President, Chairman, Africa-Middle-East-India (AMI) region, and Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations.Together with Trezor, Renault demonstrated its expertise in the electric vehicle space with the showcase of Zoe e-Sport Concept. Apart from Trezor , Zoe e-Sport Concept and the design corner, the Renault pavilion at expo presented the Formula One racing car, R.S.17 and the complete India range led by the newly launched Captur and Kwid Super Hero Edition, together with Duster and Lodgy.

Renault Trezor

L-R: Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD, Tata Motors, N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman Tata Sons & Tata Motors and Mayank Pareek, President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors at the global debut of the H5X concept.

45X concept

TATA MOTORS Tata Motors’ theme at the expo was Smart Mobility, Smart Cities’. In the Passenger Vehicles (PV) segment as part of the two-architecture strategy, two innovations made their global debut at this motor show. These were the ‘H5X concept’ from the – ‘Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced’ Architecture – the 5-seater luxury SUV and the 45X concept – the premium hatchback based on the versatile – ‘Agile Light Flexible Advanced’ Architecture. The company also announced its new design language ‘IMPACT 2.0’ for PVs and for CVs, ‘Premium Tough’ - a design that reflects a sense of purpose coupled with strength and quality.

TOYOTA KIRLOSKAR MOTOR Toyota Kirloskar Motor unveiled the Yaris for the Indian market. With Yaris the leading auto manufacturer marked its entry into the highly competitive B-segment in India. Built on Toyota’s philosophy of QDR (Quality, Durability & Reliability) this world class sedan is as advanced as it is luxurious. The bookings open for customers from April 2018.

Yaris, named after the Greek goddess Charis who embodies Beauty and Elegance, dons a premium fascia. Present on the occasion were Takatomo Suzuki, Chief Engineer, Toyota Motor Corporation, Akito Tachibana, Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and N Raja, Deputy Managing Director, Sales & Service, Toyota Kirloskar Motor.

The company also showcased the all new Land Cruiser Prado .A next-generation mid-sized Land Cruiser, the All New Prado boasts of exterior updates through a new hood, radiator grille, headlamps, bumpers, fenders and a cabin that is spruced with a new design combimeter and centre console is available in D-4D Diesel with engine offering a power of 170.30hp @ 3400 rpm and a torque 410 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm.

UNITI Uniti, Sweden’s newest electric carmaker, and Bird Group of India announced the start of their joint market analysis in India. The intent of this effort is to bring a stylish yet affordable, 100% electric city car to the Indian market in 2020 with a price tag starting from Rs.7,14,000 (approx. €9,000) ex-showroom. The general public were among the first in Asia to see the Uniti One up close at the expo. Uniti plans to bring a 5-seat configuration of its EV to the Indian market with a single-charge range of approximately 200 km.

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

TWO-WHEELERS AT THE AUTO EXPO BMW MOTORRAD BMW Motorrad India launched the all-new BMW F 750 GS and the all-new BMW F 850 GS premium travel enduros. The motorcycles are available as completely built-up units (CBU) and can be booked at BMW Motorrad dealerships. Deliveries will begin from May 2018 onwards. The ex-showroom prices are: The all-new BMW F 750 GS: Rs 12,20,000 and the all-new BMW F 850 GS: Rs 13,70,000 The bikes were launched in the presence of Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India and Timo Resch, Vice President - Marketing and Sales, BMW Motorrad. The company also unveiled the BMW G 310R and the G310GS.

L-R: Timo Resch & Vikram Pawah at the launch of BMW F 750 - 850 GS

INTERVIEW WITH SAMAR JS SODHI, FOUNDER, BIG MOTORCYCLE COMPANY Can you briefly take us through your business model?

We call ourselves the Big Motorcycle Company for India. There are around six brands we run in India. One is Eagle Rider which is the motorcycle renting and touring company, the other id Big Dog motorcycle for which I am a dealer for India. We also import high performance parts from Deltran that includes lithium ion batteries, battery charges, etc. CL Brakes is Carbone Lorraine high performance sintered brake pads for super bikes in India. I have been in this business for two years now.

What about the Big Dog Motorcycle business?

US based Big Dog Motorcycles is the largest custom bike builder in the world. In the last 25 years of their existence they have made 30,000 motorcycles. Hells Angels is a big customer of Big Dog motorcycles. The company was founded by Sheldon Coleman who used to ride with Harley. He wanted to have a different looking Harley, that is how the Big Dog brand was born. Big Dog is all about rake angles, and is hailed like the wild American chopper that you get to see. Mostly they are around US and Europe.

This is the first dealership I brought into India.

The idea was to bring in something which was homologated, and it is completely street legal for India.

How do you see this segment of choppers grow in India? You also seem to be having competition from the likes of Aventura motorcycles?

Custom build motorcycles have been in India for some time now. There are quite a number of serious ones who are building motorcycles out of Royal Enfields and so on. But at the same time, chopper has its own slot for what it looks like and how people ride it. It is a great step by Aventura to bring in their bikes.

Of course, Big Dog is completely built in the

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US. We open the container right in front of your home. Aventura is importing the same S&S engine and the rest everything is done in India. There is a difference between them and us.

What about the response the Big Dog has elicited? What about riding a chopper like this, is it difficult?

Well, this is a motorcycle which is definitely not for the mass market. They are very celebrity like. It has outlived the Harley type of motorcycles. We are getting a lot of interest and hope to get firm buyers soon. As for riding this bike, it is very easy. Sometimes people get baffled by the size and shape. It is a nine and a half feet long motorcycle. It is just like riding a regular motorcycle. The smoothness it has on the road is remarkable, you have got to ride one to find out the difference between this and the conventional ones.

What about its specifications?

It is a 111cubic, 1807 cc engine. It has bhp a 117bhp on the wheel. It has a single piece tank. The wheels are cut out of a single billet. It is a belt driven motorcycle. The engine is an S&S Super Sider engine. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox from Jim’s. It’s got seats from Danny Gray.

How expensive are these motorcycles?

If one were to order one today, he would be getting a fuel injected one and it would cost around Rs 46 lakh on road. The one on display here at the Auto Expo is a Euro 3 version. I had launched the first one here in India at Rs 59 lakh.

But since it is still for sale, with the new GST norms and this being a Euro 3, it can be bought today for around Rs 36 lakh on road. The Euro 4 one has got a bigger engine. They have moved from 111cubic to 124 cubic. Big Dog will now keep on increasing the engine size. The FI Euro 4 motorcycle comes with a 2023 cc engine.

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 45

BIKES CLEVELAND CYCLEWERKS Cleveland CycleWerks of US unveiled two models of its classic design bikes – the Ace and Misfit. The Ace model will have range of variants like Ace Deluxe, Ace Scrambler, Ace Cafe, while the Misfit model will be the Gen II Misfit. Cleveland CycleWerks has tied up with Laish Madison Motor Works Pvt Ltd (LMMW) to bring these retro styled American motorcycles to India. Present at the unveiling were Sandeep S Budala, Founder & Chairman, and Pranav T Desai, CEO of LMMW. The Cleveland Ace motorcycles are powered by a 4 stroke, 229cc, single cylinder (L to R) Pranav T. Desai, CEO, Sandeep S. Budala, Founder & engine with power at 15.4hp and peak torque at 16Nm. The bike is targeted for Chairman, Laish Madison Motor Werks and Scott Colosimo, Founder, Cleveland CycleWerks those keen on retro style biking experience. The Ace Deluxe and Ace Cafe variants feature aluminium wheels, inverted front forks and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. The Gen II Misfit motorcycle maintains the design of the original Misfit model. This is too is powered by a 229cc single cylinder engine with peak power at 15.4hp and peak torque of 16Nm. The Gen II Misfit comes with a 320mm single disc brake up front and 230mm disc at the rear as well. It has gold-finish inverted forks adjustable for compression and rebound at the front.

FIREFOX Cycle manufacturer Firefox launched two new cycles at the expo. The cycle brand has a full spectrum of mountain, all terrain, city BMX and kids bikes. The two cycles launched were the Stravaro and the Volante. While the former is for cyclists desiring a refined experience and performance the latter is more biased towards comfort and style. The Stravaro is capable of taking on road as well as off road conditions and derives its name for the Swedish word ‘Strava’ meaning to strive. The Stravaro has an edgy design along with a minimal yet exciting look. The Volante offers more of style and is ideal for enthusiasts looking to make a statement.

HERO ELECTRIC Hero Electric unveiled eight electric two wheelers. The company is the country’s largest electric two-wheeler manufacturer. The company plans to launch these products in a phased manner. The vehicles were unveiled in the presence of Naveen Munjal, Managing Director, Hero Electric. The products unveiled at the expo include: AXLHE-20 : Hero Electric’s upcoming high-speed e-bike, codenamed AXLHE-20, is powered by a 4,000 Watt motor that produces peak power of 6,000 Watts. HE-19 e-bike is powered by a 2500 Watt motor that delivers peak power of 4500 watts. It has a top speed of 75 kilometres per hour and a range of 60 kilometres per charge. HE-18 e-bike is powered by a 1500 watt motor that gives out peak power of 2000 watts. It is equipped with a 60 volt lithium ion battery that gives it a top speed of 55 kilometres per hour and a range of 70 kilometres on a single charge. HE-17 e-bike comes with a 2000 watt motor that is powered by a 60 volt lithium ion battery that gives it a range of 70 kilometres per charge. A2B Blake is the UK-based electric bicycle-making subsidiary of Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt

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Ltd. Its Blake e-bicycle is powered by a 350 watt motor that has a top speed of 32 kilometres per hour. A2B Kroemer-MTB is powered by a 250 watt motor. The e-bicycle’s 36 volt battery lasts for 700 full charge cycles and gives the electric bicycle a range of 70 kilometres along with a top speed of 25 kilometres per hour. A2B Speed e-bicycle is powered by a 500 watt motor. The Speed’s 36 volt battery lasts for 700 full charge cycles and gives the electric bicycle a range of 70 kilometres along with a top speed of 45 kilometres per hour. A2B Kuo Boost electric bicycle is powered by a 350 watt motor and has a top speed of 32.

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

HERO MOTOCORP Hero Motocorp unveiled the 200CC adventure motorcycle XPulse and Maestro Edge 125 & Duet 125 scooters. The company had showcased the XPulse as a concept in Milan. This is the production ready 200cc adventure motorcycle Hero MotoCorp has also reiterated its focus on the scooter segment by foraying into the fast-growing 125cc segment with two new products – Maestro Edge 125 & Duet 125.

Hero XPulse 200

HONDA MOTORCYCLE & SCOOTER INDIA HONDA MOTORCYCLE & SCOOTER INDIA: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd (HMSI) unveiled its most extensive product line-up of 11 new models. Leading from the front WAS Honda’s brand new 160cc motorcycle X-Blade along with 10 exciting 2018 editions (6 domestic models and 4 global fun bikes).

Honda X-Blade Honda Gold Wing The vehicles were launched unveiled in the presence of Takahiro Hachigo, President, CEO & Representative Director, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Japan, Minoru Kato, President & CEO and Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Senior Vice President - Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. The all-new Honda X-Blade is powered by the trusted 162.71 cc HET engine. The all new digital instrumentation comes with a Service Due Indicator and gear position indicator. The long 1,347 mm wheelbase and the wider 130 section tubeless rear tyre enhance stability in bad roads and ensures comfort during longer rides. Ten new 2018 editions to delight diverse set of customers from 110cc to 1800cc include the new Activa 5G, Livo, CB Shine, CB Shine SP, of CB Hornet 160R, CBR 250R, CBR650F, Africa Twin, CBR1000RR, CBR1000RR SP and the Honda Gold Wing. Bollywood actor and Honda 2Wheelers brand Ambassador Akshay Kumar enthralled his fans at the company’s pavilion. The HMSI pavilion also became the centre of attraction on February 10, 2018 at the expo as Bollywood diva Taapsee Pannu captured all attention of youngsters and flew in to spread a social message on road safety as well. Taapsee Pannu joined Guleria and announced Honda’s National Road Safety campaign #HelmetOnLifeOn.

MENZA MOTORS: Menza Motors Pvt. Ltd unveiled an electric motorcycle Menza Lucat at the expo. The Menza Lucat is priced at Rs.2,79,999 ex-showroom.

As India’s first EV which can be charged on any wall socket and onboard charging, this product has been manufactured keeping in sync technological superiority and youthful appeal towards customers. Under extensive research and development program by the company, a 10,000 km of road testing of the motorcycle has been undertaken. Supporting the Government’s Make in India initiative, 84pc of the motorcycle parts have been designed or manufactured locally.

Menza Lucat is a factory-customised motorcycle, which is built as per the rider’s requirement and his riding style. This includes body-type, suspension, seat, height and footrest. The better the posture for riding the better is the health of the rider.

With best power output in its class; the motorcycle electric motor produces 18 kw of peak power and 60Nm of peak torque. The Lucat comes with tubeless tyres and alloy wheels.

The e-motorcycle gives a city range of 100 Km and highway range of 150km on a single charge. With a brushless DC motor and an air cooling system, the motorcycle is equipped with 72V Li-ion battery pack with smart BMS System that has a charge time of only 4 hours and is fast charge capable in 90 minutes.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 47

BIKES

PIAGGIO GROUP (APRILIA) Piaggio India launched the Aprilia SR 125, unveiled the Aprilia Storm and introduced an innovative smart mobile connectivity feature for Vespa and Aprilia scooters. The Aprilia SR 125 comes with a 125 cc, 3 valve engine, 14-inch big wheels and wider tyres continuing the funriding experience. Priced at Rs. 65,310/- ex showroom Pune, the Aprilia SR 125 will be available across Aprilia and Vespa dealerships in India.

Aprilia SR125

Aprilia Storm

STARKENN SPORTS Starkenn Sports Pvt. Ltd, a premium bicycle company headquartered in Pune launched the advanced version of world’s fastest bike Giant Propel Advanced Disc for Rs 3.6 lakh. Starkenn also launched the special edition Giant TCR Advanced SL Maglia Rosa costing Rs 6.9 lakh. Celebrating Tom Dumoulin’s (Current World Champion and no. 1 ranked rider in the world by Cycling Weekly) victory at the 100th edition of The Giro D’Italia, TCR Advanced SL Maglia Rosa is a special edition race replica bike featuring pink accents throughout autographed by him.

Additionally, Starkenn displayed a number of On Road, X Road and Off Road bikes ranging from Rs 18, 000 to Rs 5 lakh.

SUZUKI MOTORCYCLES Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd unveiled the new Burgman Street, a 125cc scooter and the descendant from the legendary Burgman portfolio. The scooter comes with features like luxurious LED headlamps, body mount windscreen, flexible outstretched foot position, and Front disc combination braking system.

Amongst the biggest-attractions showcased by Suzuki at the expo, the Burgman Street is scheduled for a launch in 2018.

Powered by the heart of GSX-R, the GSX-S750 marks Suzuki Motorcycle India’s presence in sub-1000 big-bike segment. From the bold, upswept lines of its crouched stance to the aggressive styling of its new headlight, fuel tank and body trim designs, every aspect of the GSX-S750 speaks of the raw power, predictable performance and functional beauty inherit to a true apex predator.

The new Suzuki V-Strom GSX-S750 will be Suzuki Motorcycle India’s second ‘Made-in-India’ big bike after the Hayabusa.

Injecting fresh excitement and thrill into the popular Gixxer motorcycles portfolio, the 2018 Gixxer and Gixxer SF-FI models were also launched at the Auto Expo.

The 2018 legendary Hayabusa, one of the most iconic and widely recognised motorcycles, recently announced in two new colours – Pearl Mira Red/Pearl Glacier White and Glass Sparkle Black, was also exhibited for the first-time in India. The V-Strom 650 and the Burgman 650 were also on display Suzuki’s legacy in motorsports was also at display, with the presence of Moto GP race bike – the GSX-RR and Suzuki Gixxer Cup - Gixxer SF. The off-road variants included the 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450, the 2018 Suzuki Burgman Street Suzuki RM-Z250; and the 2018 Suzuki DR-Z70.

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018 TVS MOTOR COMPANY TVS Motor Company showcased vehicles like the Creon, Zeppelin and the Apache RTR 200 Fi Ethanol at expo. TVS Creon is a performance oriented, electric scooter concept, designed keeping in mind the global dream for a green future and uncompromised performance. The TVS Creon features a next-generation electric motor that propels this scooter from 0 - 60 kmph in under 5.1 seconds and boasts of a range of 80 km. A rapid charging time of 60 minutes for 80% of full charge is on par with current generation

TVS Creon

TVS Zeppelin

smartphones, leaving little idle time while charging.

The heart of the TVS Creon is powered by 3 state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries capable of delivering 12 kw of instantaneous power. TVS Zeppelin is a futuristic motorcycle cruiser concept. At the heart is a 220cc engine coupled with a one-of-its kind, TVS patented - Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). ISG comes with an e-boost option, which starts the motorcycle faster by giving it an augmented boost. This empowers the motorcycle with unmatched performance and best-in-class fuel efficiency. A 1200W regenerative assist motor with 48V Li-ION battery further adds to the powerful performance.

Targeted at the new-age long distance rider, TVS Zeppelin is a sleek metalbodied cruiser. The TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi Ethanol is equipped with technical improvements to make the motorcycle reliable with Ethanol as fuel. It sports vibrant green graphics on the tank with a sticker to indicate ‘Ethanol’ thus lending it a stylish look. TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi Ethanol is also equipped with a Twin-Spray-Twin-Port EFI technology. The E85 version motorcycle boasts of peak power of 21 PS @ 8500 rpm with a torque of 18.1 Nm @ 7000 rpm and has a top speed of 129 kmph.

TWENTY TWO MOTORS Twenty Two Motors Pvt. Ltd. launched Flow – an electric 2-wheeler, priced at Rs 74,740.

Flow is enabled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and is designed to fulfil the needs and desires of the new-age commuters. Flow ushers in a host of features for the smart and modern urban commuter, suited for Indian roads. While the company was established in 2016, the Research and Development has been carried out for an extensive period of time. The Smart Electronic Vehicle is connected to cloud server throughout the time, thus ensuring that user can keep an eye on systems performance even when the user is a thousand miles away. Servers analyses data through complex data analytic algorithms and suggest any upcoming service requirements.

The vehicle weighs approximately 85 kg and is equipped with a DC motor, which is powered by a Lithium Ion Battery, which can be charged within a short span of 5 hours and can travel through a distance of more than 80kms and a top speed of 60 kmph, with a single charging session. The product will be available with an option of dual battery at the higher end. Flow is facilitated with numerous features such as telescopic suspension, in-built mobile charger and sufficient storage space for 2 helmets.

Flow e-scooter

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BIKES UM MOTORCYCLES UM Lohia Two Wheelers Pvt Ltd unveiled three motorcycles – The Renegade Thor, an electric cruiser, along with the Renegade Duty S and the Renegade Duty Ace. The Renegade Thor produces 30Kw of power along with 70Nm of torque, and is equipped with a 5-speed transmission gearbox, with a hydraulic clutch and a liquid cooled motor with a controller. The Renegade Thor also comes equipped with reverse gear allowing for easy maneuvering.

The Renegade Duty S and the Duty Ace come with a 223 cc single cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The four- stroke oil cooled engine churns out 17Ps of power at 8000 rpm and 17Nm of torque. Weighing at 142 and 140 kgs respectively, the Renegade Duty S and the Duty Ace have the potential of being ridden on-road as well as off-road, allowing the light weight to aid in their nimble handling and maneuverability. Pricing for the Renegade Thor starts at Rs 4.9 lakh, while the pricing for the Renegade Duty S and the Renegade Duty Ace starts at Rs 1.10 lakh.

UM Renegade Thor

YAMAHA INDIA India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. launched its super sports bike YZF-R15 (Version 3.0). The new super sports model offers a 155 cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, fuel-injected engine that uses innovative technologies like Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) and Assist & Slipper (A&S) Clutch. The bike is priced at Rs 1,25,000 ex showroom Delhi. The new YZF-R15 (Version 3.0) is armed with a 155 cc engine with high compression ratio resulting in maximum 19.3 PS power at 10,000 RPM delivering a torque of 15 N.M at 8500 RPM. The company also introduced the YZF-R3 in the presence of Bollywood star and Yamaha brand ambassador John Abraham and Roy Kurian, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India. The new YZF-R3 is enabled with dual channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) technology and high grip Metzeler radial tyres. The motorcycle will be priced at Rs. 348,000 (exshowroom Delhi) and will be available at select authorised Yamaha dealerships.

Yamaha brand ambassador John Abraham and Roy Kurian, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India.

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Yamaha R3

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

Gentle beasts that came to our rescue With the Auto Expo 2018 just around the corner and an arduous journey chalked out for us on a daily basis we turned to some beastly machines to aid us on our way. The prerequisite was something fast, something comfy and something SUV. It boiled down to just two that would make it our way and boy, were we grateful on what we got - the Audi Q3 and the Jeep Compass.

Our commute was a daily one of nearly 120kms and the traffic swells would only make things all the more onerous. Thankfully the first few days I was driving the Audi Q3 30 TFSI powered by the German company’s copper bottomed 1.4L, 4 cylinder TFSI petrol motor that comes mated to a 6 speed auto transmission. The engine churns out a solid 150hp and 250Nm of torque but what made it a delightful drive was the 6-speed S-Tronic transmission that comes mated to this engine. Capable of accelerating from 0-100kmph in just 8.9 seconds, the Audi Q3 was comfy and fast.

The test of space was a challenge the Q3 would quite surprise us with. Every year at the Expo we give out a lot of goodies and Motown India merchandise. This year, instead of hiring commercial transport we thought of checking just how much can you fit into the so called SUVs of today. And well the results were astounding. While driving to the Expo early in the morning everyday was simply a treat thanks to neat open roads from South Delhi and driving back from the Expo in the Q3 was simply a couthy experience despite of all the crotchety Delhi drivers around.

Once we were done wrestling with other journos and camera persons to get a good shot and view of the new launches and the media days

Audi Q3

had come to a close, a somewhat sangfroid environment seemed to dawn over the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. Don’t get me wrong, the crowd was still manic but for us journalists, work was a wee bit reposed. During these days my steed of choice was the diesel powered Jeep Compass. Now the Compass did have more power as opposed to the Q3 but the 2.0L diesel mill came mated to a 6-speed manual. But much to my glee, the clutch was light and it was quite easy to navigate through traffic thanks to a rather light steering.

Due to a rather harrowing schedule, we usually left late from the Expo Mart and would end up in the thick of traffic, but with the 170 horses the 2.0L mill of the Compass unleashes we were able to get ahead of the herd. Even at higher gears, there is more than adequate pulling power to make overtaking feel like child’s play. The cabin of the Compass is also quite spacious and every evening as I began my drive back I would find my other four crew members sound asleep while I drove back. Alas, when all of it was finally over and the time to bid adieu was nigh, I was cock-a-hoop over our selection of the Audi Q3 TFSI and the Jeep Compass. In my opinion there could have been no better gentle beasts for us to experience.

Jeep Compass

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Reports: Aakash S. Paul

REVIEW MSI GV62 7RE GAMING LAPTOP PRICE `1,04,990/Gaming laptops are something that is a bit of a controversial topic. More often than not they lack behind their desktop counterparts and even cost more. The biggest justification comes in the form of mobility. But what if a gaming laptop could bring something more to the table. What if it costs low enough to pack decent gaming grade hardware and also function as a portable workstation? The MSI GV62 7RE could be one such laptop, so without much delay let us get on with the review!

The MSI GV62 shares it’s design and styling with other MSI laptops that have been launched recently, which means that it is great to look at. The smooth dark surface looks sophisticated and the red accent line at the back is a nice touch. The MSI badge does not glow, however, looks great nonetheless . At 2.2 kgs the laptop is not too heavy to be a burden on your back and can be easily taken around.

While the laptop looks and feels solidly built, the display was a bit flimsy and you could bend it even with a slight application of pressure.

Similarly the display hinges were not the most sturdy. This is one area that I feel MSI could have put in a little more effort. Underneath the laptop you can even spot the copper pipes that help keep the laptop temperatures cool. What delighted me the most were the rubber stands that are tall enough to lift the laptop enough that there is a good amount of airflow.

The left side of the laptop houses most of the connections including two 3.5mm jacks (one for headphone and one for mic), three USB 3.0 ports (2 Type A and 1 Type C), a mini-display port and an RJ45 ethernet port.

The right side is relatively free and has a USB 2.0, an SD card reader and the charging port. There is no CD drive on the GV62, which is normal these days but I certainly felt the lack of it while installing some games as the download speeds were less than ideal.

The display found on the GV62 is a FullHD (1920x1080p) one and it is adequately bright and the colour representation is also pretty accurate although it could not have hurt to have a slightly brighter display. This is a wide angle 94% NTSC panel and has a 170degree viewing angle but viewing the display from extreme angles does result is slight deterioration of contrast but the colours remain same more or less. You have the facility of connecting two more monitors to the laptop using the HDMI and Display Ports and can achieve a maximum resolution of 3860x2160p. Altogether I had no major complaints with the display and if you find yourself to not like the display then there are options

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in the MSI Dragon Center app to change the display mode.

What we had for review was the 7RE version. This one comes with a GTX 1050Ti 4GB graphics card. The processor you get is an Intel Core i7 7700HQ quad-core CPU with Hyperthreading clocked at 2.8GHz and it can go up to 3.8GHz in the Turbo mode. The 8GB of DDR4 RAM running at 2400MHz is pretty modest but you have the ability of expanding it to a maximum of 32GB. For most games and other tasks 8GB will suffice. While the processor is pretty powerful for most tasks it is the GPU that will limit your gaming performance. You can play most of the recent AAA titles with medium settings at 1080p but higher settings will result in some stuttering and less than perfect gaming experience.

The GV62 is more suited for playing eSports titles on the go and is also very efficient at video and photo editing. Now this is where I see this product shining. I can see this laptop being used by a lot of people who need a portable machine that packs enough power to edit videos or to some 3D modeling and animation. On the storage front you get a 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD which is super quick and helps the OS boot up in no time and you can use it to make some of your applications run faster as well. For storing data you have a 1TB SATA hard drive which makes the GV62 solid in the storage department. In case you want to tweak the performance of the laptop then all you have to do is press the dedicated Dragon Centre app button above the numberpad. From the app you can choose between 4 different modes - Eco, Comfort, Sport and Turbo (manual mode). The Cooler Boost 4 technology also makes a return on the GV62 and once again you have a dedicated button that can kick the two fans to the max speeds for the most efficient cooling but significantly increasing the decibel levels. I must say that I found the cooling to be much more efficient on this laptop when compared to the previous (and more expensive) GE72 laptop that I had reviewed.

The speakers on the

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GV62 can be found at the front of the laptop, facing the user.

The chiseled design and the elevation from the rubber grips below allow for enough space to allow the sound through the speakers to not be muffled. Though the output from the speakers itself is nothing to write home about. The sound reproduction is clear but the loudness is not. I would advise either using a headphone or connecting dedicated speakers to this laptop at almost all times. Once you pair a sound device of your choice, you can enhance the audio experience with the Nahimic2+ app. There are loads of presets for various scenarios and you can also manually tweak individual settings. Streamers would really like the option of triggering some sounds using the app. The keyboard on the GV62 is from Steelseries (as is the case with most MSI laptops) the keys are decently big and I did not have too much problem typing on the keyboard. They feel like normal laptop keys and there is nothing really bad about the feedback.

Thankfully you also have a dedicated numberpad and I always appreciate that. The font on the keys as well is typical MSI and the red backlight makes it look even more gamer oriented. The trackpad below the keys is also very functional and decently big. The left and right clicks also work well, however they do require a little bit of force to press and can cause fatigue after long usage.

There is a 1080p video cam housed on top of the display panel that can shoot videos at 30fps. I liked the 6 cell battery on the GV62 quite a bit. It gives a pretty decent backup of about 3 hours if you are using the laptop in Eco mode and not doing any gaming. Thanks to the 150W adapter that comes with the laptop, you can fill the battery in about 2 hours.

The MSI GV62 7RE is a gaming laptop costs Rs 1,04,990 and packs almost all the staple MSI features such as a 94% NTSC display, a stunning design that will surely turn heads, the handy and functional Gaming Center app and Cooler Boost 4, which works wonders here. While it is not extravagantly priced and packed with heavy hardware, making it a somewhat questionable buy, it comes packed with a great processor that will justify the laptop’s cost due to the convenience of having a portable workstation. The GV62 will be great for LAN parties and if you are looking for such a device then make sure to give this one a thought.

REVIEW 10KP QHMPL POWER BANK PRICE `1,200/Bigger power banks are becoming more of a common accessory as our smartphone usage and battery sizes keep increasing.

All this has led to 10,000 mAh power banks becoming quite common in the market and we got to review one such power bank from Quantum.

The most unique thing about this power bank is the way that it looks. It comes in two colour options, white and black. We got the white coloured one and while it is not as charming as the black colour, it does contrast well with the black display. Yes, you heard that right. There is a display the stretches across the width of the power bank. The glossy black display shows the battery percentage in the form of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% charge. This way of clearly representing the battery level is refreshing and better than the tiny dots seen on other power banks. This power bank comes with a standard USB to micro-USB cable that you can use for charging purposes. At 230 grams, the Polymer Grade A battery makes the device’s weight noticeable but not to the extent that you get worried. To hold, the power bank is very easy and the rounded corners enhance the grip. It is almost as if you are holding a small smartphone from some year ago. The front gets a chequered pattern that I did not fancy much but I did not outright hate it either. The back is more pleasing as it is a smooth all-white surface. The top right has a button (which can be tricky to press at times) that when pressed once will switch on the display and show you the battery level. Press the same button twice and the display goes off.

Coming to the specs of the power bank, it has a total capacity of 10,000mAh and takes a 5V/2A DC input and output current. There are two USB ports for charging which is handy as you can charge two devices at once. You do not have to press any button after you connect the device as the power bank automatically starts charging the device.

Between these two USB ports is also a micro-USB port for charging the power bank. In my testing I got a conversion rate of about 70% with the power bank. I charged a completely drained out OnePlus 3T (3,400mAh) and a OnePlus 5 (3,300mAh) and still had enough juice left in the power bank to charge an iPhone 5S (1560mAh) to 20%. I did, however, find the charging time unsatisfactory. Do not expect fast charge from this power bank and it takes some time to charge devices with bigger batteries.

Even when trying to charge the power bank, I had to keep it on charging through the night to fill it completely. Needless to say, that this is not for you if you like living on the edge and charging your devices only when they are about to die. However, if you are a more careful and laidback user then you can opt for the 10KP from Quantum for the added perk of a unique design. The Quantum 10KP costs Rs 1,200 which is decent for a power bank of this capacity.

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AUTO COMPONENTS THE 14TH AUTO EXPO –COMPONENT SHOW

More than 1200 companies display hi-tech automotive products

Report: Motown India Bureau

T

he 14th Auto Expo – Component Show held in New Delhi, away from the Motor Show venue, ended on a high note with over 1200 exhibitors showcasing cutting edge technologies and products.

More than 1,15,000 trade delegates from 20 countries visited the show.

The Auto Expo-Components Show was organised jointly by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from February 08 to 11, 2018.

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Spread across 60,000 square meters in seven halls and three hangars, the show witnessed participation from over 1,200 companies, which included 850 domestic and 350 international exhibitors.

Several exhibitors launched new products and technologies in conformance with BS VI and other safety regulations.

Besides that, the ACMA Safer Drives pavilion featuring virtual reality games and other special displays aimed at spreading awareness on road safety was a huge draw for the visitors.

latest range of products at the show. The company is already the world leader in the manufacturing of oil pumps in the 2-wheeler segment along with tensioners and CBS Combined Braking System.

Apart from the current products like oil pump, water pump, tensioner, CBS – Combined Braking System, Advik displayed its latest range

that includes throttle body, secondary air injection / air secondary valve, purge valve, reed valve and CBS. Throttle Body: As India leapfrogs from BS-IV to BS-VI, there would be a technological shift in the engine technology. BS-VI norms would mandate the use of electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems in two-wheelers to replace carburetors. Throttle

ADVIK GROUP Advik Hi-Tech, a leading global automotive component manufacturer showcased its

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AUTO EXPO 2018 - COMPONENTS Body Technology in EFI would replace carburetor Technology.

Advik has fully developed complete Throttle Body Assembly and geared up for the launch of BS-VI emission norms. Secondary air injection / air secondary valve: For meeting BS-IV norms, Advik has developed SAI / ASV. It injects fresh air into the exhaust stream to allow for a fuller combustion of exhaust gases. Currently, Advik is one of the largest manufacturers of SAI / ASV in India. Purge Valve: BS IV regulation establishes the first-ever evaporative emission (EVAP) standards for two- and three-wheelers.

Purge Valve is the part of the vehicle Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system. EVAP system prevents fuel vapors in the fuel tank from escaping into the atmosphere. Gasoline fumes which are generated in the fuel tank gets stored in Canister. Purge Valve controls the flow of this absorbed fuel fumes from Canister to the engine from the intake manifold. Reed Valve: Another product that helps to meet BS IV emission norm is Reed Valve. It is located between an intake manifold and a cylinder for preventing blowback from the cylinder into the manifold and for reducing back pressure in intake manifold on an internal combustion engine.

Reed valve evacuates the blowback gages through the air filter and back to intake manifold. CBS: Advik is the world’s largest manufacturer of mechanical CBS (Combined Braking System). Advik is manufacturing CBS since 2010 and more than 10 million CBS made by Advik is currently running on Indian roads. CBS prevents vehicle skidding during panic braking and

improves stability and stopping distance. India has made CBS is mandatory from April 2018 for all vehicles below 125 cc.

BREMBO BRAKE INDIA Brembo Brake India which is engaged in development, production and sales of disc brake systems for 2 wheelers with the Bybre brand launched two new products for the scooter and motorcycle segment. The company is based in Pune, and was originally set up in 2006 as a joint venture held in equal stakes by Brembo S.p.A. and the Bosch Chassis Systems India Ltd. Since 2008, the company is 100% part of Brembo. The company is engaged as OE supplier to almost all the players in India like Royal Enfield, Bajaj, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Harley Davidson, etc. with disc brake market share of 50%. The company also exports its brake system/ aggregates to BRP Mexico, Suzuki Indonesia, etc. and at present has 2 manufacturing facilities with mother plant in Pune, Maharashtra and satellite plant in Manesar, Gurgaon with approx. 1000 people in operation at these two locations.

The two new products include a new product for scooter range and a completely new combined braking system for motorcycle equipped with front disc and rear drum brake. NEW COMBINED BRAKE SYSTEMThe combined brake system improves safety and comfort while braking on small and medium displacement bikes which are equipped with rear drum brake system. The new Bybre combined braking system for motorcycle is equipped with front disc and rear drum brake.

It improves rider safety by

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Front break system for scooter

allowing the optimum use of the brakes and reducing stopping distances when apply the rear brake pedal – even for the novice user.

This system consists of a twin circuit floating front calliper with three 24 mm diameter pistons. The two outside pistons are driven by a 12mm diameter handlebarmounted front master cylinder.

The central piston is activated by a brand new combined brake system actuator. The actuator, which is installed on the rear drum brake rod, is activated by pushing the rear brake pedal and it generates a hydraulic pressure driven to the central piston of the front calliper. This determines the correct braking torque distribution between front and rear wheels.

The combined brake system ensures that when the brake pedal is operated the rear wheel will always lock-up before the front and provides much better performance than a rear only activated brake. This is an important safety feature, especially for novice riders reluctant to use the front brake fully on slippery road surfaces.

Combined brake system or ABS will become mandatory on all scooters and bikes up to 125cc under new Indian regulations

that come into effect in 2018.

Besides a complete range of floating calliper and front and rear master cylinders, Bybre is also providing front four pistons fix radial calliper currently used on KTM and BMW vehicles. Moreover, Bybre provides fully bled ABS system to the major Indian motorcycle producers. BYBRE LAUNCHES NEW PRODUCTS FOR THE SCOOTER RANGE- The new components developed specifically for mediumengine capacity scooters, an ever growing sector in the Indian market.

On the occasion of Auto Expo 2018, BYBRE presents a new 190 mm diameter front disc and a new axial master cylinder with 11 mm diameter barrel, all paired with the new double piston floating calliper (PF2x24).

The calliper, with an aluminium body and steel support, was designed with particular attention to the weight and versatility of the product. The calliper has two reduced diameter pistons and the geometry of the calliper body makes it compatible with motorcycle discs as well.

Despite its compact size, the calliper is fitted with pads comparably sized with

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AUTO COMPONENTS those used in larger callipers.

All of this guarantees a particularly positive ratio between the areas of the pads and the pistons themselves, guaranteeing high mileage before having to replace them.

The calliper uses a new pads spring concept that guarantees correct positioning of the pads throughout their lives and it implements protection systems for the sliding guides developed specifically to withstand the most severe conditions.

FREUDENBERG GROUP: The Euro multi-billion Freudenberg Group, headquartered in Germany, came out in full force at the expo wherein it was represented by several of its company products.

Freudenberg has around 14 production sites in the country with modern shop floors and another four R&D centres in India.

The company makes seals, vibration control technology components, filters, nonwovens, release agents

and speciality lubricants as well as mechatronic products.

The company caters to the automotive, mechanical and plant engineering, textile and clothing, construction and mining, energy, chemical, etc. Some of the Freudenberg companies that were part of the expo included Corteco, EagleBurgmann India, Kluber Lubrication, Sigma Freudenberg NOK and Trelleborg Vibracoustic. Georg Graf, the company’s regional representative interacted with media and talked about the company’s increasing foothold in India.

launched its Tokico branded suspension product lineup at the show in New Delhi.

Hitachi Automotive Systems announced the establishment of a technical support centre in Delhi to supplement the company’s Chennai Operations and expand its presence in the northern region.

Working towards sustainable urban development and a

HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE In line with Hitachi Automotive Systems global growth strategy to expand its aftermarket business, the company

low carbon society, Hitachi Automotive Systems launched two cutting edge powertrain technologies - Variable Valve Timing Controls and Plug Top ignition Coils, in its Stateof-the-Art manufacturing Chennai plant in 2015 and continues to successfully grow this business. The first phase facility investment should fully be utilised by the year 2020.

Bradley J. Maggart, President Hitachi Automotive Systems Asia, Ltd. & Executive Officer, Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd, said, “We continue to invest in the Indian market and are carefully evaluating the launch of at least two new products in the near future.

Hitachi Automotive Systems is investing in solutions that contribute to the Indian society. At the Delhi Auto Expo, we are displaying the latest technology in Electrification and Autonomous Driving along with a range of engine technologies that help reduce vehicle pollution in order to comply with BS VI norms in the next two years.”

INTERVIEW WITH ROHIT SABOO, Do you have any particular theme for your company here at the Auto Expo 2018?

This year there are two burning issues for the auto industry -- one current and one slightly mid-long term. The current one is the BS IV norms and the mid-long term issue is the electric vehicles. We are showcasing technological developments in both these fields where we can help our customers, i.e. low friction bearings and the low torque bearings which will help in lowering emissions. We are developing and supplying bearings for

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PRESIDENT AND CEO, NATIONAL ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES LTD. electric vehicles to some of our European customers.

Can you tell us about the extent of your business in the automotive and nonautomotive sectors?

In the automotive space we are there in the entire segment, starting from the smallest mopeds to the biggest commercial vehicles. We manufacture from the smallest 10mm bore to approximately 250mm OD for the automotive industry.

For the industrial use we manufacture

upto 1 meter OD, i.e. for the steel mills and power industry. We also manufacture for the railways as well. In fact, we have a good share there as well. Railways are now moving from diesel to electric locomotive and we are developing bearings for that segment as well.

When you refer to 10mm bearings are these fitted in two wheelers?

The very small ones are only for the two wheelers and fractional horse power mopeds. The medium sized ball bearings

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AUTO EXPO 2018 - COMPONENTS

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AUTO COMPONENTS

go both in two wheelers and four wheelers.

The large ones go into commercial vehicles.

In terms of revenues, what is the share coming in from the automotive and the non-automotive segments?

Around 60pc of our turnover comes from the auto industry. This includes farm equipment.

Approximately 25-28pc revenues come from railways and the remaining form industrial applications.

What is your capacity utilisation at your plants and if you could also tell us about your manufacturing facilities?

Currently we have five plants. The biggest

our latest plant is in Salvi near Baroda. Phase I of the plant is complete and phase II is starting and will be completed by 2020.

In 2019 we will begin the construction of a new plant which we are considering to manufacture in Rajasthan.

and oldest plant is in Jaipur, it is also our head office. Then we have one plant 60kms south of Jaipur - the Newai plant.

We have one plant in Manesar to cater to that hub and another plant to cater to the preset hub, which is our latest product for the CV industry. This is in Jaipur and

Do all these plants make a mix of different sized bearings?

All these plants make ball and taper bearings. The railway bearings and the large diameter bearings are made in our Jaipur plant.

(Full video interview can be viewed on the Motown India Corporate channel of YouTube and www.micorporate.com)

MAHLE Mahle, a leading international development partner and supplier to the automotive industry as well as a pioneer for the mobility of the future, showcased new innovations for clean air and lower emissions.

These included new generation of oil control rings: U-flex piston rings, Mahle liquid management module for lower emissions- up to two percent less CO2 and a five layer protected CareMetix cabin air filter.

Mahle is also presenting a new generation of oil control rings to reduce oil ash and particulate emissions in combustion engines: U-flex piston rings. If oil enters the combustion chamber of a gasoline engine, oil ash and particulate emissions are produced. With U-flex piston rings, Mahle lowers particulate

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emissions and oil ash by up to 30 percent. The number and mass of particles decreases as a result, and the particulate filter generates less counter pressure—reducing CO2 emissions over the vehicle’s lifetime.

The Mahle liquid management module is a combination of electric coolant pump for 12 or 48 volts and cooling circuit control. The benefits of this module are short warm-up phases for

combustion engine cold starts, rapid control of coolant flows, and control of several circuits at different temperature levels for different components using just one pump. The module allows CO2 savings of up to two percent, with minimal package requirements. The module can also be used in electric vehicles. The advantages here are likewise a simpler systems architecture and greater efficiency.

More than 100,000 litres of air are swept into the cabin every hour when a vehicle is in operation. The new CareMetix cabin air filter from Mahle has five layers to protect against solid matter and gas particles from the ambient air, while also reliably eliminating odours. In the process, CareMetix keeps all stresses to the respiratory tracts of all passengers to a new minimum.

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AUTO EXPO 2018 - COMPONENTS

The CareMetix demonstrator will give visitors to the Mahle stand a chance to experience the filter’s superb performance first-hand.

The group’s newest product division enables Mahle to supply, for example, the complete traction system with integrated control from a single source. The AC/ DC on-board charging unit allows for fast, reliable, and flexible charging of electric vehicles—independently of the power grid.

The product portfolio of Mahle Nagares S.A., newly acquired by the group in 2017, comprises control and power electronics for electric auxiliary components and thermal management systems, as well as power converters for e-mobility solutions. In conjunction with Mahle’s existing business segments, product developments will include integrated powertrain solutions for hybrid and electric vehicles as well as battery-charging technologies.

Mahle also offers control electronics for high-voltage heaters, which ensure the safe and highly efficient heating of the interior and batteries of electric vehicles. Mahle 48-volt vehicle concept MEET: The new vehicle concept MEET (Mahle Efficient Electric Transport) is systematically aligned to the needs of urban mobility.

The Mahle concept combines maximum efficiency, individual comfort, driving pleasure— and is still affordable. The MEET demonstrator vehicle includes a highly integrated drive unit, which combines motor and electronics in one housing. This reduces costs and package and is only

possible by combining the competences in electronics, electric motor, and thermal management.E-compressors for different power classes: With the newly developed e-compressors, Mahle is also a full-line supplier in air conditioning systems for electric vehicles. The electric compressor is the heart of the air conditioning system, which Mahle has developed in both 400- and 800-volt versions—for diverse power classes and a wide array of applications. Mahle diagnostic and service solutions: Mahle Service Solutions, a division of Mahle Aftermarket is a pioneer in vehicle testing, diagnostics and service equipment. Mahle actively supports OEMs in tooling their factories with proper test stations so their vehicles are built with high quality in compliance of local government regulations for safety and emissions. Mahle Service Solutions leverages the same architecture to develop diagnostic tools which helps OEM dealers and Independent Aftermarket workshops to diagnose and repair vehicles accurately.

and Heat) Solutions sector, cemented their reach in the Indian component sector with the launch of three new automotive safety products.

The three safety products— Child Safety Seats – 1st Child Safety Seat which has been certified by ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India), Front & Rear Dash Cams for Cars & Bikes and EV Charging Station. The newly launched products will help Paracoat consolidate its position as the trend setter in the automotive sector. The prices of the three products are starting from Rs. 1750 /for Child safety seat, Rs. 6000 for Car Cam F/R/I per set, Rs. 7,500/ for Bike Cam set and Rs. 3.25 lakh for EV Chargers with 2 Adaptors respectively.

The Front Dash Recording Camera can be installed on the dashboard of the car and record the view through the windscreen. The Front Dash Cam has 2.74’’ LCD touchscreen, will capture 120 wide angle views. The RearView Camera can be installed

on the rear windshield and the recording can be seen on the rear view mirror. These cameras will have 4.3’’ LCD screen, 140 angle view capture. Both the cameras have Sony Sensor, Full HD, Superior Night Vision and Shock Activated Recording features. The Internal Recording Camera can be installed on the dashboard of the car and record the inside view of the car; this camera would be helpful in keeping an eye on the indisciplined cab drivers or the impolite passengers.

For Bikes the Front View Camera will be a part of side view mirror and the recording can be seen on the same mirror. The Rear-View Camera will be installed on the number plate. Both the cameras are IPX6- water resistant, full HD, high quality night recording and shock activated recording features.

Electric Vehicle Charging Station Looking at the Indian Government’s electric vehicle policy, the company

PARACOAT Paracoat Products Limited, a leading auto component manufacturer and trend setter in the NVH (Noise, Vibration Paracoat Child Safety Seats

Paracoat Car Camera

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Two-Wheeler Front & Rear Camera

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AUTO COMPONENTS

has launched electric vehicle charging station with an objective to build an infrastructure for the EVs and plug in hybrids.

STANADYNE: Stanadyne, a global fuel injection systems developer, headquartered in Windsor, Connecticut, USA, debuted two new fuel systems that offer a differentiated approach for small engines to meet BS VI emissions at the expo. Stanadyne is a global technology leader in enginebased fuel management systems specialising in the design, development, and manufacture of diesel and gasoline fuel injection systems for off-road and on-road engine applications.

The Gasoline Pumping Injector (GPI) and Solenoid Controlled Unit Pump (SCUP) were developed as costeffective replacements for mechanical systems in two- and three-wheeler applications, and enable manufacturers to meet India’s new emission norms.

The GPI is an integrated pump and injector that fits in the footprint of the mechanical carburetors commonly used on small gasoline engines today.

The SCUP is an electronically controlled unit pump that offers precise timing and fuel delivery control and is an alternative to diesel common rail technology.

“GPI and SCUP technology was developed for the Indian market to offer the country’s manufacturers a way to seamlessly transition engines into an era of cleaner power and energy,” says Sanjay Chadda, Managing Director for Stanadyne Near East, adding

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Sanjay Chadda, MD, Stanadyne, Near East & Dr John Pinson, President & CTO, Stanadyne are showcasing the new product at Delhi Auto Expo 2018

that “Aside from addressing India’s upcoming emissions requirements, the GPI has the capability to serve the global market as well.”

With manufacturers working to meet 2019/2020 emissions requirements of small diesel and gasoline engines, Stanadyne’s GPI and SCUP offer alternative low-cost solutions that require fewer engine modifications compared to more complex systems like port fuel injection and diesel common rail.

“This technology (GPI and SCUP) is designed to fit in the footprint of today’s mechanical systems; which gives them a direct advantage over the other options in the market, which would require manufacturers to make major design changes to their engines,” says Jayabalan S, Senior General Manager of Application Engineering.

Showcased along with GPI and SCUP were Stanadyne’s other diesel and gasoline fuel systems - Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) pumps and Diesel Common Rail (DCR) systems – which marks these product’s inaugural exhibition

in India, though Stanadyne has been manufacturing products in the country for nearly 20 years.

Stanadyne’s GDI technology is designed primarily for 3-cylinder and above passenger-vehicle engines and is among the world’s fastest-growing fuel systems to improve gasoline fuel economy. Stanadyne developed the world’s first 200 bar GDI pump for the automotive market in 2006.

Stanadyne’s DCR technology is designed to be robust to the harshest operating conditions and low-lubricity fuels. The high-pressure pumps are available in two or four plunger configurations and sized for engines up to 16L.

Association of India (ACMA).

Steelbird’s entry into the tyres and tubes segment was the part of its strategy to counter the disruption caused by e-mobility in auto components industry and yet sticking to its core competence of rubber moulding in which Steelbird has an experience of more than five decades.

With 10 different sizes and 6 patterns, Steelbird’s tyres and tubes will be available in the aftermarkets of India and Nepal for a variety of twowheeled vehicles and electric three-wheelers.

Manav Kapur, Executive Director at Steelbird

STEELBIRD INTERNATIONAL Steelbird International launched tyres and tubes for two-wheelers and e-vehicles during the show. This new product range from the stable of Steelbird International was unveiled by Nirmal K. Minda, President, Automotive Component Manufacturers

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AUTO EXPO 2018 - COMPONENTS

International said, “Many in the industry have a wrong perception that with the emergence of e-vehicles, the auto components industry will suffer a lot. We are not the pessimists; we are prepared to manifest and cultivate the changes in the industry. The launch of Steelbird tyres and tubes confirms that we have a potential to grow.”

VARROC The Tarang Jain controlled Varroc Group had on display a concept car developed by Varroc Lighting Systems that showcased advanced exterior lighting technologies for fourwheelers, along with India’s first Adaptive Bending Beam

Head Lamp and Anti-glare Adaptive High Beam LED Head Lamp. Apart from these, the pavilion was divided into four zones for Scooters and MassMarket Motorcycles, Commercial Vehicles, Passenger Vehicles and High-end motorcycles.

The Varroc Group pavilion Tarang Jain, MD, Varroc Group with Vipul Goel, Minister of Industries and Commerce, was inaugurated by Environment and Industrial Training and other senior officials of the company.

Vipul Goel, Minister of Industries and followed the theme of longstanding relationship Commerce, Environment ‘Excellence’, which is reflected with the state of Haryana and Industrial Training, through their world class in the form of its polymer Government of Haryana. products and technologies. manufacturing facility in This year, Varroc’s pavilion Varroc Group has had a Binola near Manesar.

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Electric vehicles dominate CV space at Auto Expo 2018 A good number of commercial vehicles and products were unveiled at the Auto Expo 2018 held in Greater Noida.

The commercial vehicle manufacturers displayed their products along with those of car manufacturers.

ASHOK LEYLAND The global partnership between the Hinduja group flagship, Ashok Leyland and Sun Mobility, announced in July 2017, took wings at the Auto Expo 2018 when bus and truck maker Ashok Leyland unveiled its first electric bus – Circuit-S – powered by Sun Mobility’s swappable smart battery.

In a move that is transformational for the mass transportation system in India, the Circuit- S, India’s first swap battery bus which is designed for Indian conditions with seating capacity ranging from 25 - 35 seats, runs on easily swappable, smart batteries that are small and 1/4th the weight of a regular Li-ion battery. In a first of its kind demonstration, Ashok Leyland and Sun Mobility showcased the “refuelling/ swapping” of its electric bus in under 4 minutes, which is faster than conventional refuelling along with the swapping of bus drivers and conductors at a depot. This solution, thereby, addresses issues of convenience and quick recharging options that have long been stumbling blocks for the acceptance and viability of electric vehicles for public transportation.

Present at the unveiling were Vinod K. Dasari, Managing

Director, Ashok Leyland and Chetan Maini, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman, Sun Mobility.

CUMMINS INDIA Cummins India showcased its entire range of power technology solutions for customers and attendees at expo.

On display at the Auto Expo, were the all-new BS-VI emission compliant engines, turbocharger technologies, exhaust aftertreatment technologies and solutions for BS-VI compliant engines. Cummins BSVI engine architecture is a non-EGR architecture to reduce the system complexities and to provide better value to the customers. Compared with the existing BSIV engines, the BSVI engines promise

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better performance in terms of increased power & torque density, improved reliability, extended service intervals and advanced Telematics Offerings; and Cummins intends to be a one-stop shop solution provider by offering the complete package of the engine as well as

after treatment system.

The Single Module after-treatment solution, exclusively developed for the BSVI compliant engines guarantees that the product meets emissions warranty per regulations requirements. ~60% smaller and ~40% lighter than

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018

competition modular aftertreatment systems, it comes with Cummins advanced AUS32 dosing & mixing technologies for driving higher efficiencies in NOx conversion which is clubbed with smart controls strategy to drive improved fluid efficiency of the vehicle in a

variety of applications.

GREAVES COTTON Greaves Cotton Limited, India’s leading engineering solutions company, launched two new powertrain solutions at the expo. Both these solutions offer class-leading fuel efficiency and

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reduced emissions, addressing the growing alternate fuel segment and the emerging electric vehicle segment.

Greaves also showcased BSVI ready versions of its diesel and CNG powertrains that it currently supplies to over 30 OEMs in the 3-wheeler and micro 4-wheeler segments.

On display at the Auto Expo 2018 was an all new family of multi-cylinder turbo-charged intercooled engines which were BSVI compliant. Greaves Cotton also introduced Greaves Care - India’s largest multibrand organised service and spares network for 3Wheelers & micro 4Wheelers. With the introduction of these innovative engines and aftermarket solutions, Greaves Cotton aims to reinvent the Last Mile Mobility Solutions and services

space.Additionally, Greaves Cotton showcased for the first time in India high performance electric powertrains that are completely ‘Made in India’.

At the heart of this power train is an ultra-light compact high output induction motor, developed by Altigreen Propulsion Labs. This motor is controlled by a compact high performance custom designed motor controller working with lithium ion batteries. The EV powertrain was showcased as a proof of concept on existing 3W Auto on the Auto Expo Ferry vehicle, to demonstrate market ready technology. On display at the expo was a futuristic 3W EV concept which combines a well styled light weight body with advantages of the Greaves Altigreen drive train technology. Greaves presented

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES the 3-wheeler concept E3 based on its unique power train solution. The lightweight body of the new vehicle is made of advanced composite, made in collaboration with MG Group, which compliments the unique Greaves Cotton EV powertrain that is made up of ultra-light battery and less moving parts.

This combination is designed to deliver high performance with low total cost of ownership, gives longer running distance per charge, thus assisting in achieving enhanced earnings for the driver and ensuring nonstop availability of vehicles for the commuters.

JBM SOLARIS ELECTRIC VEHICLES JBM Solaris Electric Vehicles (P) Ltd, a JV between JBM Auto Ltd. and Europe’s e-mobility major, Solaris Bus & Coach S.A., launched its 100% Electric Bus series Eco-Life at the expo. The bus was launched by S.K. Arya, Chairman, JBM Group; Nishant Arya, Executive Director, JBM Group; Solange Olszewska, CEO, Solaris Bus & Coach S.A. and Dariusz Michalak, Deputy CEO, Solaris Bus & Coach S.A. Eco-Life, a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV), will save around 959 equivalent tons of carbon dioxide and 350,000 litres of diesel over 10 years of operation. This is a huge evolution from how public transportation operates in India. ECO-LIFE, powered by fast charging lithium batteries, can run 150-200 kms in 10-15 hours of city bus operation, depending on the city’s traffic conditions.

The lithium batteries are chargeable through pantograph as well as plug-in charging system. Offering a completely flexible solution, the electric bus technology is adaptable to the city bus operation depending on demographic and

geographic conditions.

LOHIA AUTO Lohia Auto Industries, the automobile division of Rs. 700 Crore Lohia Global and a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles in the country, launched “Comfort E-Auto HS”

which can run upto 30km per hour speed. Comfort E Auto HS has been designed and developed indigenously by R&D Team of Lohia Auto. The vehicle comes with a D+4 passengers seating and load capacity of 40 kg. It will offer a mileage of over 80 km. This model utilises

Li-ion battery which has a capacity of 78 AH. The charger is compact and easy to use and comes with 48V-40A Multi stages SMPS Charger. For ease of convenience to the rider it has an electric start and analog speedometer which makes it look stylish. Another defining characteristic is the front shock absorber. It is made of hydraulic (Telescopic Type). Also the rear shock absorber comprises of leaf spring plus hydraulic (Telescopic Type) with spring to offer added comfort to the passengers. It also offers a good ground clearance which is 235 mm. The E-Auto price starts from Rs. 1,49,000 (Ex Showroom Delhi).

TATA MOTORS

Ayush Lohia at the launch of Comfort E-Auto HS

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At the expo, Tata Motors unveiled the the all-new Tata Intra - the stylish, feature loaded, compact truck that is set to re-define the SCV segment in the country. Bollywood Superstar and Tata Motors’ CV business brand ambassador, Akshay Kumar made a grand entry unveiling the Tata Intra

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AUTO EXPO – THE MOTOR SHOW 2018 in a dramatic fashion. Also displayed were the Signa 4323, India’s first 6-axle rigid truck with a 30-ton payload, the highest in the market and the all-new Ultra T.7, an elegant LCV based on the modular ULTRA platform and with a 1.9-meter, wide cabin.

The vehicles were unveiled in the presence of N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons and Tata Motors , Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD, Mayank Pareek, President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, and Girish Wagh, President, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors.

Senior Tata Motors officials with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar

Eicher Trucks & Buses introduces zero emissions smart electric buses Eicher Trucks & Buses, part of VE Commercial Vehicles, has introduced zero emission smart electric buses, marking its entry in the growing electric bus segment in India. VE Commercial Vehicles will integrate KPIT Technologies’ indigenously developed electrification technology, ‘Revolo’, on its industry leading bus platform - ‘Skyline Pro’.

Manufactured at VECV’s manufacturing facility in Indore, Madhya Pradesh Eicher Skyline Pro buses offer advanced safety, comfort and

efficiency. The new electric, Skyline Pro E bus adds to the successful Skyline Pro range and marks a significant move in the company’s

direction to build smart and sustainable transportation solutions for India. Revolo is an innovative versatile technology that can be applied to a large range of buses and other vehicle designs. It has been designed

by KPIT, a global technology company working in automotive and mobility solutions. Revolo has a unique architecture which allows it to operate on a lower voltage. It also does significant regeneration to have the maximum possible range with the smallest possible battery.

The system is modular and designed for Indian conditions.

Mahindra launches Supro Load Heavy Duty Series Mahindra & Mahindra launched the Supro Load Heavy Duty Series, which will be available on the company’s small commercial vehicle offerings, the Supro Maxitruck and Minitruck. The Heavy Duty Series will comprise a strong 8 leaf front suspension, strengthening Supro’s promise of delivering a superior value proposition to its customers.

Priced competitively, the Supro Maxitruck

Heavy Duty will cost Rs. 4.63 lac (BS4 Exshowroom Mumbai) while the Supro Minitruck Heavy Duty Series will be available at Rs. 4.23 lac (BS4 Ex-showroom Mumbai).

The Supro Maxitruck and Minitruck offerings are positioned as Mahindra’s ‘Profitrucks’ given the high load carrying capacity and the resultant, strong earning potential that these vehicles present. Since

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their launch in 2015, both trucks have set new standards in the market with their class leading features.

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B2B NEWS

No EV policy but a holistic Automotive Policy on anvil Union Minister Nitin Gadkari who recently remarked that he would bull doze automobile manufacturers who make petrol and diesel engine vehicles in the coming years, may well have to eat the humble pie. He has now taken a complete U turn from his earlier stand and now says that there would be no separate electric vehicle policy. Rather electric vehicles will be part of the green mobility fleet which the government intends to encourage in its National Automotive Policy.

For the national auto policy, green mobility refers to all those mobility options that emit lower emissions –in terms CO2 g/km than pure Internal Combustion Engine vehicles – through the use of alternate fuels, drive-train technologies or other measures. Following is an illustrative (non-exhaustive) list of the leading green mobility options based on current technological maturity and Picture for representation purpose only. commercial viability: 1) Bio-fuel and Methanol based mobility The policy proposes to adopt a long-term roadmap for emission 2) Compressed Natural gas (CNG) based mobility standards beyond BSVI and harmonise the same with global standards 3) Electric and Hybrid Mobility (xEV) by 2028. It intends to roll out Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) 4) Hydrogen energy and fuel cell based mobility norms till 2025 and beyond and setup incentives as well as penalties.

The policy proposes to adopt a composite criterion based on length Green mobility technologies have the potential to revolutionise the and CO2 emissions to classify vehicles for differential taxation transportation of people and goods. Currently, India stands far behind purposes and also harmonise automotive standards over the next five countries such as China, United States, Norway and United Kingdom years in line with WP-29. who have taken the lead in converting their vehicles fleets green India has not yet acceded to the UNECE WP.29 1958 agreement and becoming engineering and production hubs for green mobility that requires harmoniszation of standards and mutual recognition of vehicles. type approval between contracting parties. Complete harmonisation The Department of Heavy Industry has finalised a draft National will not only upgrade technology and quality standards of products Automotive Policy for holistic development of automobile sector in produced in India, but also remove technical barriers to trade and India. This draft Automotive Policy proposes to deal with a whole generate higher export potential range of issues relating to vehicles, their emissions, their technologies The policy intends to improve the skill development and training and also a set of level playing fields for the industry’s overall growth. eco-system, increase accountability of Automotive Skills Development In India, the automotive industry contributes 7.1% to the total Council (ASDC)and implement a Labour Market Information System. It GDP and provides employment to about 32 million people, directly is eager to retain tax exemption on different levels of R&D expenditure and indirectly. India is the largest manufacturer of two-wheelers, with strong audit control, as well as scale-up of indigenous R&D with three-wheelers and tractors in the world, and the fifth largest vehicle commercially viable innovations. manufacturer overall. Furthermore, the sector attracted US$ 16.5 Among others, the draft policy, proposed to harmonise Automotive Billion in foreign direct investment between April 2000 and December Industry Standards (AIS) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) 2016, and is slated to attract around US$ 8-10 Billion more in local standards on safety critical parts over next three years and fast track and foreign investment by 2023. adoption of Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program.

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B2B NEWS

Kia India plans mass production by 2019 second half South Korean car major Kia Motors aims to begin mass production of cars by the second half of 2019 and will be working in tandem with the local government to run a training programme for local residents. Once fully operational the plant will be capable of producing 300,000 cars annually.

At present the Kia India operation is running a month ahead of schedule and mass production is slated to being in the second half of 2019. The construction of the new facility is scheduled for completion as early as the end of the first quarter next year.

Meanwhile, Kia installed the framework of its new manufacturing facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.

The facility will be constructed over 214 hectares and will cater to jobs for nearly 3,000 local residents. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu graced the plant site along with Han-Woo Park, President & CEO, Kia Motors Corporation.

Han-Woo Park said during the special ceremony “I believe Kia will bring amazing change and hope to both of the State of Andhra Pradesh and the entire India. We are here to build more than just great cars. We aim to set a new standard of automotive lifestyle experience by providing Indian consumers with world-class products and service, but also deeply engaging with the Indian people and giving back to the community whenever possible.”

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu graced the plant site along with Han-Woo Park, President & CEO, Kia Motors Corporation.

Kinetic Green, Lamborghini family of Italy form joint venture Pune based Kinetic Group’s company Kinetic Green Energy & Power Solutions Ltd signed a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with luxury brand Tonino Lamborghini to jointly set up a new joint venture company in India (in state of Maharashtra) for design and manufacture of premium segment golf carts and other electric off-road vehicles.

Under the MOU, Lamborghini Family will also provide the “Tonino Lamborghini” brand license to the JV and both the companies will leverage the existing network and marketing channels to promote and market the joint venture products in India and globally.

The new JV will leverage Kinetic Green’s existing R&D as well as manufacturing facilities located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra where the company manufactures various electric vehicles and holds a leading position in electric three-wheeler business in India.

Kinetic Green and Tonino

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Lamborghini group will discuss and finalise the further terms and condition of JV including shareholding percentage, investments, JV scope, business plan and other commercial terms during the next 90 days and finalise the definitive agreements.

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Founder and CEO of Kinetic Green Energy & Power Solutions Ltd said “The whole world is moving towards green technology oriented vehicles for a better tomorrow and we are very happy to announce the joint venture with one of the world’s most admired and luxury brand.

Kinetic Green is keenly looking to tap the global market with high end golf carts and off-road electric vehicles along with our JV partner, the Lamborghini family.”

The golf carts segment is growing at a good rate over 7.5% CAGR and currently has a global market size of 300,000 units where North America and Europe count for the maximum market share.

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B2B NEWS

Maxion Wheels to set up passenger car aluminium wheel plant in Pune Maxion Wheels, the world’s largest wheel manufacturer, held a ground breaking ceremony (Bhoomi Poojan) for constructing a 25,000 square meters plant in Khed City, Pune in the State of Maharashtra in western India. The ceremony included a plaque unveiling and traditional ground breaking ritual.

Once the project is complete, Maxon Wheels will produce four million aluminium wheels annually.

In this first phase, an investment of more than US $50 million (Rs 324 crore approx.) will be spent on the land and state-of-the-art plant and equipment for the manufacturing of two million wheels annually. Start of production is expected in the third quarter of 2019 Maxion Wheels is a division of Pieter Klinkers, CEO, Maxion Iochpe-Maxion S.A., a leading wheel manufacturer for passenger cars, light trucks, buses, commercial trucks and trailers. The company also produces wheels for agriculture and military vehicles, as well as other off-highway applications. Maxion is the world’s largest wheel manufacturer, producing 58 million wheels per year. The Company serves its global OEM customers from 28 locations in 15 countries on five continents, and has state-of-theart technical centers in the Americas, Europe and Asia.

Maxion Wheels Chief Executive Officer, Pieter Klinkers remarked that the new Pune passenger car aluminum wheel plant of Maxion Wheels will be the first global light vehicle aluminum wheel producer in the Indian market.

The new wholly-owned operation, expected to initially bring more than 1,000 new direct and indirect jobs to the region, will produce

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Wheels

low pressure die cast aluminum wheels with a high-end wheel finish.

Maxion Wheels started its wheel production in India in 1996 when it set up two steel wheel plants in Pune. One is a car wheel plant producing 4 million wheels annually and the other is a truck wheel plant producing 1.2 million annually. The new aluminium wheel plant and process coming up in Pune will include premium Bright Machined wheels from the start, 32 low-pressure die casting machines, heat treatment, x-ray and 16 machining cells, One paint shop with capacity for 2 million wheels, powder coat followed by wet paint base coat and clear coat, among others. Sizes of wheels to be made at the new Pune plant will be of size 14” to 22” in diameter and 4” to 9” in width.

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B2B NEWS

Sunjay Kapur controlled Sona Group unveils new logo A year after disposing of the Sona Group’s entire equity holding of around 25.12 per cent in its then flagship company Sono Koyo Steering Systems for around Rs 419 crore to its Japanese partner JTEKT Corp., the refreshed Sona Group has unveiled its new logo to recalibrate the larger perception of its consistent technologybased growth and future objectives.

The Sona Group was founded by late Dr Surinder Kapur.

Sona BLW Precision Forgings Limited (SBPFL) is now the flagship of the Sona Group. A few months back, the company had augmented its operations in Hungary.

Besides this facility in Hungary, Sona BLW is present across two more locations globally - India (3 facilities) and Germany (3 facilities).

Meanwhile, in a communication dated February 2, 2018 to the Bombay Stock Exchange, Sona Koyo Steering Systems stated that the company’s management has proposed to change the name of “Sono Koyo Steering Systems” to “JTEKT India Ltd”, subject to necessary shareholders’ and regulatory approvals.

Coming to the new logo of the Sona Group, Sunjay Kapur, CEO of Sona Group & Managing Director, Sona BLW Precision Forging elaborated on the reasoning behind the company’s brand-new logo. “Today marks 10 years of being a global company

for us. Ten years ago, we bought the ThyssenKrupp gear division. Our Founder, Late Dr. Surinder Kapur’s vision was to create a company that India is proud of.

Our foray into building the electric axle, the differential for the current as well as electric vehicle manufacturers, enabled us to capture 11% of the global market for differential bevel gears. We can proudly say that we have achieved our vision of creating a company that makes India proud.

As we transition to create a new vision, to design and manufacture products that will aid the future of mobility, we at Sona BLW look at the future with renewed vigour and aspirations. We developed the new logo and identity to signify that.”

Sona BLW exports auto components to leading global automotive players such as Corvette, Chrysler, Linamar, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Renault, Tata and Volkswagen in passenger vehicles. In the commercial vehicles segment, their clients include, AAM, Ashok Leyland, AMW, Daimler, Eicher, Force Motors, Meritor, TATA and Volvo. Clients in the agriculture & off-highway vehicles segment include, Carraro, Escorts, John Deere and TAFE to name a few. Sona products include warm-forged bevel gears, differential case assemblies, driveline components, mechanical front wheel drive, e-Axle and synchroniser rings for automotive and other applications.

In the new logo, the letters ‘S’ and ‘O’ form the globe, while the letters ‘N’ and ‘A’ form the core of the planet. The abstract components that form the core of their business are represented by 5 teeth, one for each continent. With geometric precision, the layers within, bring texture and vibrancy of the work culture. The infinite, connected symbol represents positivity of intent, innovation and the continuous endeavour to grow.

Sona BLW put on display their large product line at the recent Auto Expo 2018Components. The company showcased its e-axle and the concept prototype for coaxial e-axle with an integrated motor.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India production cross 35 million mark Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. achieved a monument landmark today by crossing a combined production mark of 35 million units from four of their manufacturing facilities here in India.

Honda is the only two wheeler brand in the country to have exponentially grown and cross the 35 million units barrier in a span of 17 years. The company began its operations in India in the year 2001 and took 11 years to achieve production mark of 10 million units. The company managed the next 25 million customers in a matter of five and a half years.

According to a statement released to the

press, the Honda is able to sell a scooter every 5 seconds. Yadvinder Singh Guleria,

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Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Since the very start in 2001, Honda 2Wheelers India has led with its challenging spirit. Our first model, a scooter (Activa) activated the slowing scooter market with its advanced features and fresh design and is now leading India’s scooterization as No. 1 selling two-wheeler of India. Delighting 35 million customers with 24 products Honda 2wheelers is now reaching closer to them through a network of over 5,700 authorised touch-points. India’s Love for Honda’s 2wheelers is Growing and we are set to meet the future expectations of our customers.”

MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 69

B2B NEWS

Mahindra and LG Chem collaborate for Li-ion battery technology Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., a part of the US $19 billion Mahindra Group and LG Chem, Korea’s leading manufacturer of advanced batteries have announced a collaboration in the field of advanced Li-ion battery technology.

Under the aegis of this collaboration, LG Chem will develop a unique cell exclusively Picture for representation purpose only. for India application and will also supply Li-ion cells based on NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) into production in the last quarter of FY 2020. chemistry with high energy density. These cells will be deployed in Commenting on this announcement, Hemant Sikka, President & the Mahindra and SsangYong range of Electric Vehicles. LG Chem will Chief Purchase Officer, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “The Electric also design the Li-ion battery modules for Mahindra Electric, which Vehicle revolution is taking the country by storm and at Mahindra we in turn will create battery packs for the Mahindra Group and other are happy to be at the forefront of this change. This association with customers.

LG Chem will give Mahindra the requisite access to advanced battery In keeping with the investment plan already announced technology and will also enable us to deliver globally competitive

by Mahindra last year, a battery module plant is also under products. At Mahindra we are preparing to scale up in accordance development. The plant will have a capacity of half a million battery with our expansion plans in order to meet demand expected in the modules per annum and will also house a battery module pack line near future. We look forward to a strong and fruitful association with and the entire facility for both module and pack is expected to go LG Chem.”

Hyundai showcases next-generation fuel cell electric vehicle- Nexo, Ioniq Hyundai Motor showcased the next Motor as it intensifies our efforts to generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle produce highly efficient, eco-friendly (FCEV) – Hyundai Nexo and Global vehicles. Hyundai as a caring brand is Electric Vehicle – Ioniq (Battery continuously innovating in Clean and Powered) during the India Korea Connected Mobility Solutions to make Business Summit 2018 held in New a long-term positive transformation Delhi. for our future generations.” he added.

Present at the India Korea The Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Business Summit, S H Kim, Vice Hyundai Nexo SUV model is set to President, Namyang R&D Centre, spearhead Hyundai Motor’s plans L to R - Chung Eui-sun, Vice Chairman, Hyundai Motor Hyundai Motor Company, said, “We to accelerate development of low Company with S H Kim, Vice President, Namyang R&D Centre, Hyundai Motor Company are glad to participate in the 2nd emission vehicles globally. The India-Korea Business Summit 2018. all-new Hyundai Nexo combines Hyundai has a long term commitment the practicality of an SUV with clean towards Make-in-India for the past 20 years and today we are proud advanced fuel cell technology. The Hyundai Nexo is capable of to showcase the Next Generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle - Hyundai travelling 609 kilometres (*on Korean certificate basis) on a single Nexo SUV, for the first time along with Global EV - Ioniq at the India charge, the best among fuel cell-powered vehicles in the world. This Korea Summit 2018.” next generation vehicle offers the most advanced technology on the “The creation of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle - Hyundai Nexo SUV market with various advanced driver assistance systems and the and Global EV - Ioniq is a significant leap forward for Hyundai strongest powertrains in the segment.

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B2B NEWS

BMW rolls out first ever 6 Series from Chennai plant German stalwart BMW has rolled out its first ever 6 Series Gran Turismo from its plant in Chennai. The 6 Series Gran Turismo was launched earlier this month at the 2018 Auto Expo. The company launched the car as a locally produced petrol variant, the BMW 630i Gran Turismo Sport Line.

Dr. Jochen Stallkamp, Managing Director, BMW Group Plant Chennai, said, “BMW Group Plant Chennai is proud to roll-out the first-ever BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo in India.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo is not only a unique concept but also makes a significant mark through its advanced engineering, technology and innovations. Now locally-

produced in India, it will create a novel segment and set new benchmarks in the Indian luxury car segment. As always, BMW Group Plant Chennai is committed to deliver the best-in-class products for discerning

customers who value the highest level of quality in every detail.”

The BMW Group Plant in Chennai also produces the BMW 3 Series, 3 series GT, 5 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3 and the X5. Local production of the Mini Countryman will begin in this year as well. The company has designated a ‘Production follows the market’ approach and BMW Group India has systematically accelerated the localisation program here in India.

The plant at present has been able to achieve upto 50pc localisation.

BMW plans on launching a diesel powered variant of the 6 Series Gran Turismo in India later in 2018.

Tata Technologies becomes NIO’s preferred Engineering Partner for its EV range Tata Technologies, a global engineering services provider, has announced a close association with NIO China, a leading new-generation electric car company, in the complete product development process of NIO’s range of electric vehicles. The association between the two companies commenced with collaborative engineering for NIO’s first electric all-aluminum vehicle, the ES8, which NIO intends to be their first product positioned in the Chinese electric vehicles mass market.

Talking about this association, Warren Harris, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer for Tata Technologies said, “ES8 is an important milestone for the automotive industry. The 7-seater high-performance electric SUV is a mobile living space on wheels. It has been a privilege for Tata Technologies to partner with NIO on this breakthrough product. Our close working relationship in the areas of Lightweighting, Connected Vehicles and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is a great example of the type of partnerships that will define the future automotive ecosystem. Moreover, our ability to serve NIO through the capabilities that we have in China,

India, UK and USA is a testament to the investment we have made in our global capabilities. We look forward to our partnership with NIO developing at scale.”

Roger Malkusson, Vice President, Vehicle Engineering for NIO, recognised Tata Technologies’ contribution, and said, “We have an ambitious goal of delivering a new premium user experience with electric vehicles that will set benchmarks globally and Tata Technologies is our partner of choice to help achieve this. They were able to pool in experts and teams from China, India, UK and Romania to work together with the NIO engineering team to deliver the final product which adhered to the highest standards in safety and finesse.

The first finished product, ES8, is an allaluminum SUV that broke lightweight index benchmarks and was delivered in record

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time from a blank page to a validation vehicle in world class duration.”

The two companies initiated their association in mid-2015, very close to NIO’s inception as an ambitious next-gen EV startup. Since then, Tata Technologies has engaged with NIO to drive major engineering aspects related to the development of ES8, such as Body Structures, Closures & Exteriors, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, PLM, and Off-car Connectivity.

Tata Technologies, in this strategic association with NIO, utilized its globally distributed execution model and extended its proven expertise in out-of-the-box engineering processes.

With the goal of creating a productdevelopment process that would establish an industry benchmark, NIO and Tata Technologies have worked on a range of concepts on weight optimization using advanced materials. The team has worked on creating a process that would pioneer the way for more advanced material based vehicles in China. The result of implementing such expertise is that the ES8 is currently achieving Body Weight Efficiency targets better than the EuroCarBody Conference best.

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B2B NEWS

Spark Minda unveils third die casting plant in Pune Global automotive component manufacturer Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group announced the inauguration of its state of the art die casting manufacturing plant at Chakan, Pune by its flagship company Minda Corporation Limited. The Group has set up its third state of art die casting manufacturing facility exclusively for aluminum gravity die casting & low pressure die casting with machining in Pune for two and four wheeler products.

Minda Corporation Limited, a flagship company of Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group made an initial investment of Rs 100 cr. for new die casting manufacturing facility. The company already operates dedicated aluminium and zinc die casting machine components at their Greater Noida and Pune facilities for turbocharger system, braking system, handle mounting components and engine mounting components for the automotive market. Inauguration of third Die Casting plant in Pune will suffice the Indian as well export demands.

The new facility is equipped with Competency Centre for Excellence for gravity die casting & low pressure die casting.

The Group has already received significant export order worth more than Rs 100 cr of annual business for European passenger car market.

Ashok Minda, Group CEO, Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group said, “Spark Minda follows a strict principle of Quality and Customer focus. We always cater in the best possible manner for our products and technological demands. Establishment of our new plant at Pune will enable Group to suffice the rising demand of die casting components for indian & global automotive customers. We have pumped an initial investment of Rs 100 cr, this investment will further escalate so as to cater the demands of automotive industry. We stand proud to serve our global customers in the most distinct manner with a vision and mission to expand beyond geographical boundaries”.

N.K Taneja, Group Chief Marketing Officer, Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group said, “Automotive industry is undergoing a huge overhaul with rising technological advancements where we see combined demands coming from National and International markets.

Inception of this new Die Casting facility under the umbrella of Spark Minda is a new milestone which will suffice product deliveries to

various parts of world.

Spark Minda has been strong player in Gravity Die Casting, continuing the legacy the new plant will develop and integrate products with our recently inaugurated Ashok Minda Technical Centre (Spark Minda Technical Centre - SMIT) located at Chakan, Pune.”

Sudhir Kashyap, Executive Director & CEO, Minda Corporation Limited said, “Year 2018 marks an exceptional start for Spark Minda, where we recently saw inauguration of our Technical Centre and now new Die Casting plant which will open new horizons for Group in components manufacturing. We have dynamically aligned our technological processes with product development to establish a trade mark of superiority in the products we develop and manufacture. We operate on simple DNA of “Powered by Passion” and we are confident enough to take our capabilities to another level with each passing year”.

Vertical Machining Centre

Minda Corporation, Die Casting - New Plant at Pune

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B2B NEWS

Audi launches first vehicle-integrated toll technology for US Beginning later this year, Audi of America will expand its vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology offering with the launch of a vehicle-integrated toll payment technology on select vehicles. The Integrated Toll Module, or ITM, is a toll transponder built into the vehicle’s rear view mirror, allowing drivers to access toll roads in the U.S. and in parts of Canada and Mexico.

ITM is yet another Audi first in vehicle-

to-infrastructure (V2I) technology, allowing the car to communicate and interact with its environment. For Audi owners, ITM provides an added layer of convenience and aesthetic enhancement. The mirror-based toll payment solution gives convenient access to the country’s toll roads while helping to eliminate windscreen clutter and the need to manage multiple toll accounts. Drivers will be able to adjust module settings through the vehicle’s

MMI – including turning the ITM on/off and changing the occupant settings for HOV/ HOT lanes.

The ITM was developed for Audi by Gentex Corporation, which supplies automatic-dimming mirrors for all Audi vehicles. The ITM technology is compatible with existing tolling agencies nationwide and can be registered with a driver’s current account, new account, or a nationwide tolling account.

Mahindra `500cr additional investment in Chakan EV plant Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M Ltd) has announced that it will make an additional investment at of Rs 500 crore in its Chakan plant in Maharashtra. The company will invest in its Electric Vehicle (EV) Project under the new EV Policy of the Government of Maharashtra.

The investment for EV and EV components is in addition to its ongoing expansion plan in Chakan which includes an initial investment of Rs. 6,500 crore. This additional investment of Rs. 500 crore will be

utilised towards product development and capacity enhancement for electric vehicles and related components. The MoU was signed by Sunil Porwal, Additional Principal Secretary (Industries), Government of Maharashtra and Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. in the presence of Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra and other dignitaries present at the Magnetic Maharashtra Conference currently underway in Mumbai.

TOP LEVEL CHANGES IN MOTOWN Honda Motor Co. Ltd. has appointed GAKU NAKANISHI as the new President and CEO of Honda Cars India Ltd. Nakanishi will take office from April 1, 2018, consequent to the management changes announced annually by Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Nakanishi will take over the reins from Yoichiro Ueno who will be moving to New Business Strategy Division, Business Development Supervisory Unit in Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Gaku Nakanishi was previously the President and CEO of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co. Ltd. since 2015. Nakanishi has been associated with Honda Motor Co. Ltd. for nearly 30 years and has a vast experience in the automotive arena.

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MARCH 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 73

PICTURE OF THE MONTH

Anand Mahindra, Executive Chairman of Mahindra Group trains his mobile phone at a battery of camera persons who were present at the Auto Expo -The Motor Show 2018 in Greater Noida to cover the launch of new Mahindra vehicles. Rajan Wadhera, President - Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., looks on in amusement. Photography: Afsar Baig

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