Motown India October 2018 by Motown India

VOL-9 • ISSUE-1 • OCTOBER 2018 • `100/-

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INDIA

FIRST DRIVE

2018 LEXUS ES 300H

8TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

FIRST DRIVE FIRST DRIVE

TRAVEL

A JEEP COMPASS JOURNEY TO MORNI HILLS

MAHINDRA MARAZZO 2018 HONDA CR-V

CV REPORT

TRAVEL

A NEW HIGH ON A TVS APACHE RR 310

IAA COMMERCIAL VEHICLES 2018

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH PANKAJ DUBEY, MD, POLARIS INDIA

P. THARYAN (ROY) EDITOR Punnoose Tharyan (Roy) ptharyan@motownindia.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------News Coordinator - Jisha P Special Correspondent - Aakash Paul Video Editor - Ramesh Kumar Content Manger - Vrinda Desai Digital In-charge Naveen Kumar Web Correspondents - Avdesh Kumar, Seema Paul Photo Journalists - Afsar Baig, Neeraj Panwar ---------------------------------------------------------------------For Editorial contact editorial@motownindia.com, editorial.motown@gmail.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------FOR MARKETING & SALES CONTACT Head-Operations - Jisha P jisha@motownindia.com, +91-9958125645 advertising@motownindia.com, advertising.motown@gmail.com /+91-9811097399 ---------------------------------------------------------------------FOR ACCOUNTS CONTACT Ankit Sharma, ankit@motownindia.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------FOR CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION CONTACT Dalip Singh Bagdwal subscription@motownindia.com / +91-9811305822 ----------------------------------------------------------------------Office Executive Ravinder ----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL DELHI OFFICE 145 B/9, First Floor, Kishangarh, Next to United Free Church, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110070 ----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL CONTENT The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the contents in the magazine are correct. However, he can accept no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions. Any unauthorised reproduction of Motown India content is strictly forbidden. ---------------------------------------------------------------------Motown India is owned by Motown Publications Private Limited and published from 4058 / D-4, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi-110070. Motown India magazine is printed at Balaji Ad Prints, C-187, Ground Floor, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase - 1, New Delhi -110028 ----------------------------------------------------------------------This issue of Motown India magazine contains 100 pages including both covers. ----------------------------------------------------------------------EDITORIAL ADVISORS Salil Sharma, Alexander .T & Annie Jacob

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e have completed eight years of uninterrupted publishing and the October 2018 issue of Motown India is our 8th anniversary issue. We are proud to feature an interesting mix of B2C and B2B reports in this issue. The B2C section carries first drive reports of cars like the new Lexus Hybrid

Electric ES 300h, the all-new Honda CR-V and the recently launched Mahindra Marazzo. We have also reviewed two top notch quality bicycles from Trek and Giant. For this anniversary issue, we also did some travelling. Thanks to FCA India and TVS Motor Company, we accomplished an almost 1000km journey to Morni Hills, bordering Himachal Pradesh. We are not only carrying two separate travel reports but have also uploaded different videos on Motown India channel of YouTube for our viewers. The B2B section is loaded with very interesting news. These include reports on the Global Mobility Summit 2018, the BusWorld 2018 held in Bengaluru, the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 event held in Hanover and the Automechanika event held in Frankfurt, Germany.

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CONTE NTS VOL 9 | ISSUE 1 | OCTOBER 2018

10 GLOBAL NEWS: Why fly when you can enjoy a Volvo 360c concept?

CAR NEWS: Vitara Brezza gets 4

stars, Renault Lodgy scores a duck in Global NCAP crash test

BIKE NEWS: Gritty Indian

Motorcycle riders on an 8000km mission to educate the girl child

WHEELZ & ROADZ : 2018 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid Electric - First Drive

WHEELZ & ROADZ : 2018 Honda CR-V Diesel 4WD-

First Drive

WHEELZ & ROADZ : Mahindra Marazzo - First Drive

FEATURE: Trek FX Sport 5

FEATURE: Giant Fathom 3

B2B NEWS: Global Mobility Summit-MOVE 2018

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84 CV NEWS: IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018

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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

Why fly when you can enjoy a Volvo 360c concept? Why fly when you can be driven? Imagine a world in which you travel long distances without the need for airports. A world in which you can avoid airport security, hours of queuing and waiting, and noisy, cramped airliners. What if, instead, you could take your own first-class private cabin that picks you up at home and takes you from door to door? It is this vision for the future of autonomous travel that Volvo Cars reveals with its new Volvo 360c concept, a holistic view of a future of travel that is autonomous, electric, connected and safe. It could open up new growth markets for Volvo Cars, for example in the multi-billion dollar domestic air travel industry. The basis of the 360c is a fully autonomous, fully electric car without a human driver. The concept capitalises on the freedom in design afforded by the absence of a steering wheel and a combustion engine, providing the ability to reimagine the traditional placement of passengers in

rows of two or three. The 360c presents four potential uses of autonomous driving vehicles – a sleeping environment, mobile office,

living room and entertainment space – which all reimagine the way people travel. It also introduces a proposal for a global standard in how autonomous vehicles can safely communicate with all other road users. “The business will change in the coming years and Volvo should lead that change of our industry,” said Hakan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars. “Autonomous drive

10 | MOTOWN INDIA | OCTOBER 2018

will allow us to take the big next step in safety but also open up exciting new business models and allow consumers to spend time in the car doing what they want to do,” he added. The 360c represents a potentially lucrative competitor to short-haul air travel, a multi-billion dollar industry comprising airlines, aircraft makers and other service providers. Especially shorter routes where the distance between origin and destination is around 300 kilometres are prime candidates for disruption by an alternative mode of travel.

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CAR NEWS

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza achieved 4 star rating during the Global NCAP crash tests

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza gets 4 stars, Renault Lodgy scores a duck in Global NCAP crash test Global New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP), a UK-based charity that conducts crash safety tests on cars across the world, has in its latest #SaferCarsForIndia crash test results, announced that Maruti Suzuki has achieved an encouraging four star result with the Vitara Brezza while Renault failed to impress with the zero star Lodgy.

and robust.

The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza with standard double airbags, ABS, and ISOFIX anchorages, achieved four stars for Adult Occupant Protection and two stars for Child Occupant protection. The Adult Occupant Protection was good

The Renault Lodgy without airbags in its standard version achieved zero stars for Adult Occupant Protection and two stars for Child Occupant Protection. The zero star result was partly due to the lack of airbags which caused

The Child Occupant Protection rating was only two stars due to the forward facing positioning of the 18 month old dummy in the test though the 3 year old dummy received good protection. The markings for the ISOFIX anchorages were also incorrect according to Global NCAP testing protocols.

12 | MOTOWN INDIA | OCTOBER 2018

the head and chest to impact the steering wheel. The car also showed an unstable structure during the crash with deformations even in the rear door and a rupture in the footwell area during the crash. The lack of ISOFIX anchorages meant that the child seats needed to be installed with adult seatbelts, that could not prevent excessive forward excursion of the 3 year old dummy which impacted its head on the driver seat backrest. “Indian developed cars like the Vitara Brezza together with the Tata Nexon, previously published in August, are clear evidence of the steady improvement in

the Indian automotive industry and show a significant potential for much safer cars in the near future,” said David Ward, Global NCAP Secretary General. “The four star result for Maruti Suzuki’s Vitara Brezza is really impressive. It demonstrates clearly the safety engineering capabilities of India’s leading vehicle manufacturer. It also shows the beneficial effects of the Indian Government’s new crash test standards helping to raise levels of vehicle safety. We are getting very close now to seeing India’s first five star car. In contrast the zero star Renault Lodgy is extremely disappointing. Global NCAP had hoped that Renault had learned

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CAR NEWS from the difficult experience they had with the Kwid. It’s time now for Renault to make front air bags standard across their entire Indian product range,” he added.

SAFER CARS FOR INDIA CAMPAIGN #SaferCarsForIndia Campaign was launched by the Global New Car Assessment Programme in 2014 with the objective of promoting safer vehicles in the country. Between 2014 and 2017 Global NCAP has

completed more than twentyfive safety assessments which have acted as an important catalyst in the safety improvement of Indian cars. “It is surprising and matter of great concern that global car makers are still producing cars that offer sub standard and zero safety in India, the same models will be considered illegal in their own countries” said Eng. Alejanro Furas, Technical Director, GNCAP while announcing the crash results .

RENAULT INDIA INSISTS THAT IT MEETS ARAI REGULATIONS Renault India in a statement said that all Renault products meet and exceed the regulations set by ARAI. “Renault has taken great strides in vehicle safety. The company shares the goal of improving road safety worldwide, including the adoption of robust vehicle safety standards. Our products are ARAI certified, which is the current mandate in

India. As India is gradually moving towards international safety and emission norms by including more robust regulations, Renault will be ready for the upcoming safety regulations and BSVI norms. The tests by Global NCAP are conducted at speeds that are higher than those prescribed by the regulatory authorities, not only in India but also in developed markets. The results of Global NCAP have to be seen in that perspective,” the company statement said.

Renaul Lodgy received zero ratings during the crash test.

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CAR NEWS

Polaris India inaugurates 84th Polaris Experience Zone Polaris India Pvt. Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries Inc., has taken the adventure quotient for enthusiasts in Bengaluru a notch higher by inaugurating the second branch of Dirt Mania Adventure in the region. The Dirt Mania Adventure has partnered with the Hip Café Hangout at Nandi and opened a onestop destination for all enthusiasts looking for adventure and thrill.

& Country Head, Polaris India and Jayaraman Parameswaran, Cofounder, Dirt Mania Adventure. Located in Karahalli Cross, Hurlagurki, Karnataka, Dirt Mania Adventure not only offers visitors the thrill and exhilaration of Polaris vehicles on a dirt track with slush pit, humps, sand and stones, but it also serves as an apt place for families looking to spend quality time with adventure. The PEZ ensures adrenaline pumping action and a fun-filled itinerary for visitors from all age groups.

The second branch of Dirt Mania Adventure in Bengaluru is the 84th PEZ in the country which was inaugurated by Pankaj Dubey, MD

(L) Pankaj Dubey, Managing Director and Country Head, Polaris India Pvt. Ltd. at the inauguration of 84th Polaris Experience Zone

Jeep Compass Limited Plus at `21.07 lakh onward FCA India announced the roll out of the Jeep Compass Limited Plus, a new, upmarket variant based on the range-topping ‘Limited’ trim. The Limited Plus is complete with eight premium features. Including the top-of-the-line Limited Plus variant, the entire Jeep Compass range is now available to customers between Rs.15.35

lakh and Rs.22.85 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The Jeep Compass Limited Plus offers eight premium features in all its three aforementioned derivatives: 1. Panoramic dual-pane sunroof (also referred to as “Moonroof” in Jeep parlance) 2. 8-way Power seat for driver with memory function and 4-way power lumbar support

3. 8.4-inch UConnect infotainment 4. Selective Automatic headlamps 5. 18-inch dual-tone polished-aluminum alloy wheels 6. Six airbags –An addition of curtain airbags. This in addition to the already available two front and two side airbags 7. Rain-sensing wipers 8. Electrochromic auto-dimming IRVM

The Jeep Compass Limited Plus, which is now the top-of-the-range variant in the Limited trim and is available in three derivatives: VARIANT

ENGINE

TRANSMISSION

PRICE (EX-SHOWROOM DELHI)

Limited Plus

2.0-litre, 173 PS, 350 Nm Multijet II (Turbo Diesel)

6-sp Manual 4x2

Rs. 21.07 lakh

Limited Plus

1.4-litre, 163 PS, 250 Nm Multiair (Turbo Petrol)

7-sp Automatic* 4x2

Rs. 21.41 lakh

Limited Plus

2.0-litre, 173 PS, 350 Nm Multijet II (Turbo Diesel)

6-sp Manual 4x4

Rs. 22.85 lakh

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CAR NEWS

Ferrari Portofino debuts in New Delhi at `3.5 crore Select Cars Pvt. Ltd., the official importer of Ferrari in New Delhi, launched the latest model from the iconic Ferrari stable, the Ferrari Portofino at a price of Rs 3.50 crore. The Ferrari Portofino, powered by a 3.9 litre V8 twin turbo engine was launched in the presence of Aurelien Sauvard, Head of Marketing at Ferrari Middle East and Yadur Kapur, Dealer Principal at Select Cars, New Delhi, among others. The engine generates 600hp and a peak torque of 760Nm. The engine is mated to

a 7 speed DCT. The car gets two 5 inches TFT displays in the MID and a 10.2 inches touch screen infotainment screen which supports Apple CarPlay. The car sits on 20 inches Pirelli P 0 tyres (front: 245/35 ZR 20, rear: 285/35 ZR20). Capable of unleashing a massive 600 cv and sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, the Ferrari Portofino is the most powerful convertible to combine the advantages of a retractable hard top, a

roomy boot and generous cockpit space plus two rear seats suitable for short trips.

Lamborghini delivers the first Urus in India at `3.10 crore Lamborghini Urus, the first Super SUV from its stable, was delivered in India. The first vehicle was delivered in Mumbai at a price of Rs 3.10 crore, ex showroom. Lamborghini Urus is as much a luxury SUV as the most powerful, with a super sports car dynamism to be enjoyed by both driver and passengers.

All New Lexus ES 300h hybrid electric sedan now in India at `59.13 lakh Two months after announcing the commencement of bookings for the seventh generation ES300h, Lexus lndia unveiled the all new hybrid electric sedan in India, marking its arrival in the country, just five months after its global debut. The luxury sedan is built on the all-new Global Architecture - K (GA-K) platform. The car is priced at Rs 59,13,000 ex showroom, pan India. The Lexus ES 300h is powered by a 2.5 litre, four cylinder petrol engine combined with the new, fourth-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive System. The sedan was launched in the presence of N Raja, Chairman, Lexus India and P B Venugopal, President, Lexus India. (First Drive Report on Page 40)

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The SUV has a dual personality: it is multi-dimensional. The Urus provides easy driving in the city, maximum comfort during long journeys, thrilling super sports car dynamics on the road and track, and versatile off-road abilities in a range of environments. Automobili Lamborghini India expects its volumes to surge more than the double with the Urus.

Mercedes-Benz India launches CLA Urban Sport at `35.99 lakh onward Luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz launched the CLA 200 and CLA 200 d Urban Sport, petrol and diesel versions. The Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Urban Sport (Petrol) and CLA 200 d Urban Sport (Diesel) are priced at Rs 35.99 lakh and Rs 36.99 lakh exshowroom, India respectively. Key product details: • The Thermotronic automatic climate control with 2 climate zones offers individual climate comfort for driver and front passenger. Temperature, airflow and air distribution are

controlled automatically • Rear centre vents for improved climate comfort in the rear • New Exterior Paint – Cosmos Black • “Sport” Floor Mats • “Sport” Illuminated door sills • “Sport” badge • Rear Spoiler Carbon Style

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CAR NEWS

Mercedes-Benz India launches new C-Class with BS VI diesel engine Mercedes-Benz India has introduced the new C-Class diesel range that comprises the C 220 d Progressive, C 220 d Prime and the C 300 d AMG Line. The company has for the first time introduced BSVI diesel power train in the C-Class: the four-cylinder OM 654 diesel engine powers the C 220 d and the C 300 d AMG Line. The car is now in its fifth generation. The New C 220 d Prime is priced at

Rs. 40.00 lakh, C 220 d Progressive is Rs. 44.25 lakh, C 300 d AMG line is Rs.48.50 lakh (ex-showroom, India) The new C-Class was launched by Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India. The OM 654 engine featured in the C 300 d AMG Line

Mercedes-Benz all-new E-Class All-Terrain launched at `75 lakh Mercedes-Benz India launched the all new E-Class All-Terrain. The AllTerrain comes equipped with a fourcylinder diesel engine that generates 194 hp of power. Its All-Terrain transmission mode is inspired from the Mercedes-Benz GLE range which offers off-road drive settings. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain is priced at Rs 75 lakh, ex-showroom, all India. The comfortable AIRBODY Control suspension configuration and the large wheels with higher sidewalls

increase ride comfort on rough roads. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive E-Class All-Terrain has unique features like increased ground clearance due to the Air Body Control multi-chamber air suspension. It is the most flexible all-rounder designed especially for unpaved roads making it the ultimate choice for a family car. The new model boasts all the intelligent load compartment solutions such as the rear seat cargo position. All E-Class innovations relating to safety, comfort and convenience are available in the all new E-Class All-Terrain.

and the C 220 d, delivers more output as well as reduction in the noise and vibration characteristics.

Hyundai Next Gen Verna Anniversary Edition at `11.69 lakh onward Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) announced the introduction of the Next Gen Verna Anniversary Edition as a celebration of the 1st Anniversary of the brand. The Anniversary Edition will be limited to 1,000 units based on the single trim SX(O) in MT & AT transmissions and petrol and diesel variants and will feature in white colour and an all new special edition colourmarina blue. The Next Gen Verna Anniversary Edition is available in the SX(O) MT/ AT trims in Petrol and SX(O) MT trim in Diesel. The car comes with a host of features and designing that make it even more appealing. Features of the

20 | MOTOWN INDIA | OCTOBER 2018

New Verna Anniversary Edition include: » Front And Rear Skid Plate » Black ORVM » Shark Fin Antenna (available in Marina Blue only), » Rear Spoiler » Wireless Phone Charging » Anniversary Edition Emblem engraved In addition to sunroof, ventilated seats, smart trunk, and telematics in existing top variants, the The interiors boast of all black upholstery with contrast blue stitching, refreshed & sporty allblack theme dashboard with blue color accents on the AC vents that enhance the contours.

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WE GOT BOTH

CAR NEWS

Tata Motors launches limited edition Nexon Kraz at `7.14 lakh Tata Motors announced the launch of the limited edition Nexon Kraz (pronounced as craze, /kreiz/), to mark the 1st Anniversary of the Nexon brand. This neo-styling design treatment is inspired from the active world of sports and combined with the athletic performance of Nexon to attract the enthusiastic,

Nissan India launches the Sunny Special Edition at `8.48 lakh

active and sporty youth of today. The Nexon Kraz will be available in two variants - Kraz and Kraz+ at a starting price of Rs 7.14 lakh for the petrol version and Rs 8.07 lakh for the diesel version. The Nexon Kraz comes with 10 styling highlights. Nissan India launched the Special Edition of its premium sedan, Sunny. The car gets an all-new stylish black roof wrap, new body decals and black wheel covers with new rear spoilers. Nissan’s flagship sedan, the Sunny is available in dealerships across the country at a starting price of Rs 6.99 Lakh. The Sunny Special Edition will be

available at Rs 8.48 Lakh. The Sunny Special Edition is equipped with the More Advanced and Intelligent NissanConnect, an integrated connected car technology, with more than 50 features, for best-in-class security and convenience. The Limited Edition also has a built-in 6.2’’ touchscreen AVN with Phone mirroring for enhanced infotainment.

Skoda Auto India introduces Rapid Onyx at `9.75 lakh onward Skoda Auto India unveiled the Rapid Onyx at an ex-showroom price of Rs 9.75 lakh nationwide taking forward the ‘One Nation. One Price.’ philosophy. The Rapid Onyx will be available in two colour options, Lapiz Blue and Candy White. The Rapid Onyx sports a modern crystalline appearance synonymous with the brand’s signature design language.

MODEL

PRICE (EX-SHOWROOM, INDIA)

1.6 MPI Petrol Engine, Manual Transmission

Rs 975,000

1.6 MPI Petrol Engine, Automatic Transmission

Rs 1,099,000

1.5 TDI CR Diesel Engine, Manual Transmission

Rs 1,158,000

1.5 TDI CR Diesel Engine, Automatic Transmission Rs 1,273,000

Datsun India launches the stylish redi-Go Limited Edition 2018 Datsun India has announced the launch of the stylish redi-Go Limited Edition 2018 across two variants. The Datsun redi-Go Limited Edition 2018 is priced at Rs 3.58 lakh for the 0.8L MT version and Rs 3.85 lakh for 1.0L MT version and will be available in three colors - white, silver and red at all Nissan and Datsun dealerships in India. The Limited Edition 2018 Datsun redi-Go comes with external features like roof wrap, stylish body graphics and front-rear bumper undercovers. In addition, it has features such as the front signature red insert on grill and rear tailgate graphics. The interiors of the car carry red and black leather upholstery seats with accents on AC vents, Rear Parking Assist Sensor (RPAS) with distance display device, satin chrome gear bezel, chrome inside door handles and carpet mats.

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BIKE NEWS

Gritty Indian Motorcycle riders on an 8000km mission to educate the girl child What really motivates a rider like Bernard Lazar, who could be well into his 40s, to ride all way from his hometown in Kochi in Kerala on his Indian Roadmaster motorcycle to join another set of gritty Indian Motorcycle riders to embark on an 8000km, 19-day Golden Quadrilateral (GQ) ride from Gurugram in Haryana? Or a lady rider like Shefali Bajaj to join the GQ ride from Ahmedabad in her Indian Scout? Then there are others like Anurag Srivasatava from Nagpur, Col. Mulapulli Sudarshan from Hyderabad, Niladri Saha from Raipur and Harshwardhan Bansal from Delhi. All

hearts, i.e. the education of the girl child.

Indian Motorcycle brought Wheels of Change initiative to Arya Kanya Sadan in Faridabad

of them own an Indian Motorcycle and are pretty proud of that fact. But they are equally proud of the fact that they are riding for a cause that is close to their

The Golden Quadrilateral ride under the ‘Wheels of Change’ initiative is focused on the Girl Child Education. Sharing the mutual belief and dedication in giving back to the community, these proud owners of Indian Motorcycle will ride across 15 cities in the country and visit several schools to provide educational kits and raise funds for the ‘Girl Child Education’. The GQ ride was flagged off from Indian Motorcycle Delhi and will conclude at the National Capital on October 14.

New variant of TVS StaR City+ introduced at `52,907 TVS Motor Company has introduced a new variant of the TVS StaR City+ for the festive season. Sporting an elegant and stylish Grey-Black dual tone, the ‘Ecothrust’ 110cc powered motorcycle comes with Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT) and dual tone mirrors. The dual tone edition is priced at Rs.52,907 (Ex-Showroom Delhi) and is available at all TVS Motor Company showrooms across India. Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT) is a joint braking system that activates the front and rear brake simultaneously, thus providing superior braking control and minimising skidding to ensure safety of the rider. TVS Motor Company is the only manufacturer to offer this advanced technology in the 110cc motorcycle segment. The new dual tone colour variant of TVS StaR City+ comes with fourspeed gearbox, “Ecothrust” engine with an output power of 8.28hp@7,000 rpm and a torque of 8.7Nm@5,000 rpm. The new variant is infused with exciting design cues, such as the well-known TVS chrome 3D label, a crown visor, along with a stylish black grab rail. Apart from the introduction of the new Grey-Black colour, the TVS StaR City+ dual tone editions are also available in Black-Red, Black-Blue and Red-Black colour options.

Greaves Cotton to acquire majority stake in electric vehicle company Ampere Greaves Cotton, one of India’s leading diversified engineering companies, announced that they have entered into definitive agreements pursuant to which Greaves Cotton will acquire a majority stake in EV company Ampere Vehicles Pvt. Ltd, subject to customary closing conditions. This acquisition will accelerate the development of clean energy technology solutions for mobility needs of passengers and small businesses. Ampere is one of the leading brands in the last mile mobility electric vehicles segment. It has strong in-house capabilities in designing, developing, manufacturing & marketing electric vehicles with a wide range of applications. Greaves currently provides transportation to almost 10 million people daily through its powertrain solutions. In addition, Greaves reaches 5 million customers (of aftermarket spare parts) per month through its network of 5000+ retail outlets.

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Special Editions of Suzuki Intruder / FI launched at `1.05 lakh onward Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL) has rolled out the ‘Special Edition’ of the Intruder and Intruder FI ahead of the festive season. The new Intruder SP edition is available in Metallic Matte Black /Candy Sanoma Red priced at Rs 1,00,500, while Intruder FI SP is priced at Rs 1,07,300 (exshowroom, New Delhi). The Intruder SP and Intruder FI SP editions are offered in Matte Black colour along with Candy Sanoma Red accent enhancing the sportiness of this modern day cruiser with a standard pillion backrest fitment. The SP variants will come equipped with Anti- Lock Brake System (ABS) and the Fuel Injection will offer a better riding experience.

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BIKE NEWS

Ducati launches 959 Panigale Corse at `15,20,000 Luxury motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has launched the 959 Panigale Corse in India at a price of Rs 15,20,000 (Ex-Showroom, India). The version coming to India is a special edition sporting a dedicated livery inspired by the Ducati Corse MotoGP colours. The 959 Panigale Corse gets a 955cc Superquadro engine that is Euro 4 type-approved churns out 150hp@10,500 rpm and a torque of 102Nm@9,000 rpm

Ducati Scrambler 1100 launched in India for `10.91 lakh Ducati India has launched three new Scrambler bikes in the country including the Scramber 1100, Special and Sport. The bikes have been priced at Rs 10.91 lakh, Rs 11.12 lakh and Rs 11.42 lakh (exshowroom) respectively. The new Scrambler 1100 draws inspiration from the iconic 70’s model while remaining faithful to the “Land of Joy” spirit. Bookings are open for the bikes across all dealerships . The new Scrambler 1100 bikes get bigger engines but retaining a compact footprint. The bikes gets an all new 1079cc L-twin, air-cooled engine which generates 86hp@7600rpm and 88Nm of peak torque at 4750rpm, with a lot of torque coming in early on in the rpm range. The chassis has been redesigned. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission. The bike gets ride by wire and 3 riding modes namely Active, Journey and City. The hydraulic brake and clutch lever can be adjusted to your liking.

Royal Enfield launches Interceptor INT 650, Continental GT 650

Royal Enfield launches Classic Signals 350 Airborne Blue, Stormrider Sand

Royal Enfield has now launched the new twin cylinder machines, the Continental GT 650 Twin and the Interceptor INT 650 Twin. The twin cylinders have been launched for North America. These motorcycles will be priced at USD 5799 (Rs 4,21,169 approx.) for the Interceptor INT 650, and USD 5999 (Rs 4,35,706 approx.) for the Continental GT 650, for the Standard colourways. The Custom and Chrome colourways will be priced at USD 5999 and USD 6499 (Rs 4,71,998 approx.)for the Interceptor INT 650 and at USD 6249 (Rs 4,53,778 approx.)and USD 6749 (Rs 4,90,086) for the Continental GT 650 respectively.

Royal Enfield has launched the Classic Signals 350 motorcycle in two new colours in India. Conceived as a tribute to Royal Enfield’s 65 years of association with the Indian armed forces (since 1952), the Classic Signals 350 is inspired by the Enfield motorcycles that have been in service, and the men and women who ride them. The motorcycle will be retailed at a price of Rs. 161,728 (exshowroom Chennai).Expanding Royal Enfield’s offering in the 350cc segment and building on the military heritage, the Classic Signals 350 will be available in two colours Airborne Blue and Stormrider Sand. These new motorcycles will be available with a dedicated collection of gear and over 40 motorcycle accessories that includes panniers and steel engine guards.

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TVS APACHE RR310

A NEW HIGH

My partner in crime for this heist was the flagship motorcycle from TVS, the Apache RR 310. Admittedly, this 300cc motorcycle is not one that would come to mind when you think of long tours because of the way it is portrayed as a sports oriented motorcycle. But that perception was all about to change. Report: Aakash S. Paul

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feel blessed to have a job where I not only get to drive the best cars and motorcycles but I get to do it against the backdrop of some great landscapes across various cities. People generally think that ours is a job of luxury. But the hidden truth is that we auto journalists do not get to enjoy the vehicles we drive and places we visit in the way that most travelers do. Our focus is on finding out every last detail about the product at hand and testing it against a thousand metrics in our heads so that we can hand over the most reliable information to our audience. It is a huge responsibility to critique things because we tend to

shape the public opinion for products. So when I recently got to know that I would get to go on a road trip but not for the purpose of reviewing a vehicle, I could not believe my luck. This month, Motown India magazine celebrates its 8th anniversary and what better way to celebrate than behind the wheels of a vehicle without having to worry about testing it. Even though the destination was Morni Hills which branches out from the Shivalik Mountain range, it was the journey I was more thrilled about. A rough calculation made it clear that I would have to ride for a little more than 300kms to reach the place. My partner in crime for

“Needless to say, I did stop every now and then as I found myself captivated by the scenery. Beyond the scary drop lay vast lands and immaculate mountains bathed in the morning glow of the sun. It was nice to see nature’s version of RGB –Red flowers, Green trees and Blue skies.”

ADVERTORIAL this heist was the flagship motorcycle from TVS, the Apache RR 310. Admittedly, this 300cc motorcycle is not one that would come to mind when you think of long tours because of the way it is portrayed as a sports oriented motorcycle. But that perception was all about to change. Rule number one of traveling to any place is to start early and that is what I did. Though I am not a fan of waking up before the sun gets to put on its slippers, in this instance I was not too cranky about doing it. I managed to pack all my essentials in just one bag; we boys are known for packing light! Most of the sleep left my eyes as I switched on the RR 310, its bright white eyes piercing the darkness of my garage. A second wave of energy passed through me as I brought the engine to life. The throaty note from the exhaust was all the encouragement that I needed to come into my own. The road close to my house is almost always clogged with traffic during the daytime but at this hour it lay naked. I left the visor of my helmet open to let in the early morning air wash my face. I met my backup car and crew in Janak Puri and headed on to the ring road. This is when the real journey began. From there on I was tracing sine waves of flyovers as I climbed and descended time and again. Riding or even driving on highway at such early hours is a mesmerising experience every single time. You do not have to contest with other vehicles for space or listen to the endless dissonant mass of horns. In these

golden hours you get to experience the freedom of the highway with a clear vision of the road meeting the horizon. But what is a road trip without a few stops and selfies? So as we approached Murthal, there was no way that we would not stop to grab some parathas! I parked the bike and went in to enjoy a much needed glass of tea with my breakfast. I even did the obligatory check-in. With a belly that was full and happy, it was time to get back on the road but not before a quick stop at a gas station. I did not have time to refill the bike the previous day so I decided to do it now since we had already made a stop. I filled the 11L fuel tank to the

brim, noted the odometer reading and joined back on the now slightly more crowded highway. Being on a twowheeler I had a big advantage at toll booths as I could slither past them via the left-most lane which is meant for two wheelers. Sadly the same could not be said for my crew that was in a car. I had to cross the tolls and then wait on the side with my hazard light on. This, however, did allow me time to admire the sky and scenery around which was almost always gorgeous to look at. It also gave me time to realise that despite the sun rising higher in the sky and the temperature being significantly more than when I had left my house, the bike was not overheating. The oil cooling was actually working! Now there is probably nothing that I love more while riding than a cool and composed engine and the Apache RR 310 had just that. As we reached the foot of the hill after riding for more than 200kms on highways, my mind was ready to take on some twisties. The climb was going to be about 30kms long. The roads throughout were just wide enough to accommodate two vehicles at one time. One wrong maneuver and you would plunge down the side. Staying alert is key when tackling any mountain. So while I was excited by the notion of bending it like Beckham, I also had a mental restraint around myself.

No doubt, the ride uphill was smooth and fun. Even when the rpms were low and gears high, the bike did not stop. The roads were less than ideal in many parts with broken tarmac and there were pebbles scattered on turns. Those pebbles can be especially dangerous if you underestimate their capability to throw you off. Thankfully I made it to my stop without any casualties or incidents. Needless to say, I did stop every now and then as I found myself captivated by the scenery. Beyond the scary drop lay vast lands and immaculate mountains bathed in the morning glow of the sun. It was nice to see nature’s version of RGB –Red flowers, Green trees and Blue skies. It was afternoon by the time I had reached my destination and I was famished. So the first thing I did after I dropped my bag was to take a quick bath and then have some delicious food. Now I’ll be

honest, I can’t tell for sure if the food really was that delicious because when you are hungry almost anything tastes like holy bread. Post the late lunch, I took a much needed nap; I had been up since 3 in the morning after all. By the time I woke the sun was about to call it a day. So I decided to spend the rest of the evening with a novel and a cup of coffee. Talk about pure bliss! Luckily, the place where I was had a lawn at the front and almost no population around. So peace and calm of nature was all that surrounded me. Topping it all was a view of the valley on one side. My residence was on the edge of a hill which allowed me a wide view of the few houses and fields below and a stream passing through. That last bit gave me what I had to do the next day; go to the stream! After I finished my tea, I had a chat with the caretaker to know the way to the stream and if

there were any more places to visit. I also made a call back home to do the mandatory status update before I could update my social media accounts. Night fell and along with it came a curtain of dew that covered everything and dropped the temperature by a few degrees. Not that it was particularly hot in the first place. Even though I had almost 1 hour of sleep, the bed was bellowing for me again. So I ate dinner and went in for a peaceful night sleep at just 10PM. Needless to say that was quite early for me but I wanted to catch the sunrise next morning so my body obliged. I woke just 5 minutes after 5 AM and headed out just in time to meet the sun as it appeared over the horizon. The view was more than what I can express in words. The entire landscape was

covered in an intense yellow as the sun rose from behind the mountains. But this was not the unforgiving and unbearable yellow glow of the summer heat we experience in the city. This one had a more pleasant touch and a warmth that was somehow light. After getting my fill of admiring the sun and the morning landscape, I had my morning tea and realised that my bike was quite dirty from all the dust that had settled on it on my way here. It was bathing time for the stallion and I took a bucket of water and a cloth and went to town on the RR 310. The bike looked pretty good after I was done cleaning and I while I might not be as good as those bikini wash models, I think I did a pretty decent job! With the RR 310 clean and gleaming, it was time for me to clean myself up,

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grab a bite and go exploring. The stream that I saw was on a path that I had passed on my way to the top. It was about 10kms from where I was stationed. After riding for about 3-4kms I had to make a U-turn and take the road that went down in the other direction. This new path took me around the mountain and gave me access to a fresh view of mountains and I could also see the stream flowing below. My excitement was increasing as my altitude was decreasing, bringing me closer to the waters. Though all my excitement came crashing down as I encountered a section of the road where it had been dug on one side for repairs and a truck was blocking the other side. I parked my bike on the side and walked towards the truck to enquire when and if it would move. Though I was not hoping for much, it turned out to be alright as the truck driver happily agreed to back up his truck so my bike (and the crew car along with me) could pass. I had to ride another 8kms after passing the truck and that was when I reached the point where I could meet the stream. The spot was almost in the middle of a valley that had mountains towering over it on almost all sides. There was a decent amount of mostly flat land and the stream was bordered by big rocks. I decided to park the RR 310 on the side, take off my riding boots and dip my feet in the stream for a little while. The water was pleasantly cool and the feel of rocks under the sole of my feet was relaxing. It was almost like receiving a relaxing massage. The rest of the afternoon was spent just sitting there and taking pictures of the scenery

and the RR 310. After a couple of hours I decided that it was time to eat something so we headed further in the same direction in hopes of finding a place to eat. We got lucky after a couple of kilometers. There was a small shop that served handmade chapatis and vegetables. It was noting extravagant but was tasty nonetheless. I decided to spend the next day just relaxing in the lap of nature. Once you have worked day in and day out for years, you feel a bit odd when you do nothing. It is a weird place where you want a break from work but when you do get it your fingers become

twitchy and it feels that something is off. The day after, I decided to venture further into the peaks to witness the wonders that it had hidden within. I was told about a waterfall that could be reached by trekking for a little. So I rode to a spot where I had to park the RR 310 and then from there on tread the land on foot. I had carried my normal shoes with me and changed into them as any sane man would tell you that trekking in riding boots is not the best idea. One of the locals had agreed to accompany us and show us the place. After about 15-20 minutes of crossing curtains of trees and hanging vines we reached the waterfall. The waterfall was not colossal but its flow was calm and satisfying. As we tried getting close to the top of the waterfall almost everyone slipped and struggled for balance. After a certain point we could not climb because it became too steep. As I turned to look back I saw Tikkar Taal a famous tourist spot here in Morni Hills. The view was nothing short of awe inspiring. Evening fell and it was turning dark by the time I started on my way back. And less than

halfway up it got completely dark. Out in the mountains, there generally are no street lights of light from houses and buildings to keep the roads illuminated. I flicked on the high-beam and rode carefully, switching to low-beam as vehicles approached from the opposite direction. The light from the LED lamps on the RR 310 packed enough intensity to illuminate the tricky turns. Once I reached the hotel, I almost repeated my routing from the day before. I took a bath, had some tea then after digesting a few chapters of my novel, I enjoyed the dinner. In the following days I visited many more spots in Morni Hills like the Taal mentioned earlier and even a museum built inside a fort. All of them were great places but it was the stream and the waterfall that struck me because even though they werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t flogged with tourists, they had a charm about them. Almost like the hidden treasures found in stories that I used to listen to in my childhood. On my last night in Morni Hills I lay on my bed, just minutes away from deep

sleep, sights and scenes from the days I spent in this paradise replayed in my mind followed by the fact that I would have to start back for home tomorrow morning. Pushing that last thought away, I put the rest of the tripâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memories on repeat as I slowly slid into the world of dreams. You know a trip was worth it when your heart refuses to return home. When I woke up the day I had to leave for Delhi that is exactly how I felt. While I was sad about going back to my daily life, what put a smile on my coffee sipping face was the sight of the RR 310 and the thought of zipping through the highways and mountains once again. This trip to Morni Hills was quite an experience for me. Not only did I come across such a beautiful place not too far from Delhi but I also understood the Apache RR 310 a lot better and found it to be a great sports tourer. TVS should perhaps stress the comfort quotient more than the sporty appeal. As for me, after I am done with this report, I have an anniversary to celebrate with some lovely colleagues!

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A JEEP COMPASS JOURNEY TO

MORNI HILLS

PANCHKULA

MORNI HILLS

AMBALA

KURUKSHETRA

KARNAL

PANIPAT

NEW DELHI

The hills in Morni are part of the Shivalik range which is, in turn, on the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Many small seasonal rivers like the Ghaggar flows through the hills. It was here at the Ghaggar river that we spent a considerable amount of time flying our drone overlooking the pristine and scenic range. You have got to see it with your own eyes to believe the scenic nature of this place. Report: P. Tharyan

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“We wanted to be away from the city’s hustle and bustle, away from our computers, our office desks and chairs. We wanted to just stare at Mother Nature in her eyes and adore her beauty, her hills, her trees, her rivers and streams and her winding paths.”

t was the 8th anniversary issue of Motown India print magazine and we were hard pressed for time. Yet, we had made up our minds to hit the hills bordering Himachal Pradesh in Haryana. Yes, you got it right, we planned to go by road all the way to the tranquil hills of Morni.

To take us to our destination was a 4x4 Jeep Compass powered by a diesel 2.0-litre engine that produced around 170.63hp and a peak torque of 350 Nm. The Multijet II (Turbo Diesel) engine of the Jeep Compass is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The hills in Morni are part of the Shivalik range which is, in turn, on the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Shivalik literally means “tresses of Lord Shiva”. Shivaliks are divided in many sub-ranges and are cut by the rivers like the Indus, Sutlej, Ganges, Yamuna and the Brahmaputra. Many small seasonal rivers like the Ghaggar flows through the hills. It was here at the Ghaggar river that we spent a considerable amount of time flying our drone overlooking the pristine and scenic range. You have got to see it with your own eyes to believe the scenic nature of this place. But before I go any further, let me tell you the way to the Morni Hills from New Delhi. With vehicles today coming with all kinds of sophisticated navigation systems and Google doubling up as your eternal mental crutches, any journey you embark upon is literally a cakewalk in terms of direction. Hook on to the Google maps, and you will be guided all the way to your final destination. The route we took to Morni Hills was through Panipat, Karnal, Pipli, Ambala and before entering Chandigarh we took a right turn towards Panchkula. We started our journey from South West Delhi in Vasant Kunj and through the Delhi Cantonment, exited Delhi from the Mukarba Chowk. This chowk or crossing is infamous for the huge mounds of household waste that is dumped there. In fact, the mounds resemble small hills. An acrid, nauseating smell greets you as you cross this place bordering Delhi.

TOLL TIME Toll Agency

Cost (Rs)

NHAI BhaganToll Plaza

L&T Panipat Elevated Corridor Ltd

NHAI Panipat Jalandhar NH-1 Tollway Pvt Ltd

120

NHAI GMR Ambala Chandigarh Expressway

While all four-wheeler drivers have to pay four different tolls en route to Morni Hills, two wheeler riders can simply breeze through these tolls without paying as they are exempt from such charges. Like always, it’s best to start a road journey just before sun rise. The sooner you clear the traffic in Delhi, the better are your chances to hit the national highway early and speed your way to your destination. A little past 7am and we were at the popular Murthal (Sonipat), the first pit stop for those who travel by road from Delhi. Murthal is dotted with a multitude of dhabas or makeshift eateries serving mostly delicious vegetarian food. We stopped at Sukhdev Vaisno Dhaba where we had our share of breakfast comprising some very tasty parathas (Indian bread made of flour that is stuffed with mashed potatoes) served with cottage cheese.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once the Jeep Compass was parked strategically, we took out our drone and let it fly. It rose to great heights to capture the lake and we send it across the small hill to even capture the other lake which was not at all visible from where we stood.â&#x20AC;?

After driving for a few hours, by around 2 in the afternoon we reached Morni Hills, our final destination. No one was complaining of fatigue as the journey in the Jeep Compass was as comfortable as travelling in the lap of luxury. The six-speed transmission ensured that we took on the highway with enough power and purpose. We maintained our speeds at the legal limits of 90kmph, though there were moments when we stepped on the accelerator briefly to see the digital speedometer going well past the 100kmph level.

MORNI HILLS, WHY IT ROCKS Morni Hills is only for those tourists who love to be in the arms of nature. Unlike the hill destinations of

North India like Shimla, Nainital, Mussourie, Kasauli, Kullu, Manali, etc where hills have been stripped bare of trees and land, where ugly monstrous hotels of all sizes accommodate hundreds and thousands of uncouth tourists who rather binge on beer and loud music, the Morni Hills are for those in love with tranquility, peace and beauty. We wanted to be away from the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hustle and bustle, away from our computers, our office desks and chairs. We wanted to just stare at Mother Nature in her eyes and adore her beauty, her hills, her trees, her rivers and streams and her winding paths. In fact, the moment we reached our destination, we

ADVERTORIAL unpacked, put our stuff into our rooms and went trekking. It was at this point when some of us realised we had not walked in such pure air. No smog, no pollution, no traffic, ho harsh sounds of blaring horns and thankfully no loud disco music. We trekked for a short time, over a distance covering barely a couple of kilometres. As long as the winding rocky path took us down, we were happy and content but when we had to trek back, we realised the true meaning of stamina. The fat ones among us were left behind and as they huffed and puffed, we continued our way up to our hotel, perched atop a hill.

TIKKAR TAAL LAKE Morni Hills is popular for its two lakes, the Tikkar Taal lake. The two small lakes are separated by a small hill and it is said that these two lakes are interconnected through some natural underground tunnel. This means that the level of water in both lakes remains quite balanced. Boat rides are popular for tourists at these lakes. We drove down to the Tikkar Taal lake in our Jeep Compass and had the opportunity to test the capability of the vehicle over some very thick slush. A tweak of a knob on the centre console of the Jeep Compass is all what is required to change the vehicle from the Auto Mode to a 4-wheel mode or to any other mode like snow, sand or mud. We turned the knob to MUD mode and surprisingly the vehicle simply kept moving with considerable ease. Once the Jeep Compass was parked strategically, we took out our drone and let it fly. It rose to great heights to capture the lake and we send it across the small hill to even capture the other lake which was not at all visible from where we stood. As one of the boys gleefully controlled the drone with the help of a joystick, I noticed the scenic beauty of the place on the small screen that showed the recording being done by the drone which by now was not visible to the human eye. For the next couple of days, we simply spent our time at the lake. A Haryana Tourism hotel by the side of the lake wore a deserted look. I wondered why people in India hated secluded and scenic places and rather preferred crowded hills dotted with a million shops.

GHAGGAR RIVER Morni Hills has also got an Adventure Park for tourists which I guess, is best for families with children. We did not bother to even explore the park. We were now keen to drive our Jeep Compass closer to a river bed and as luck would have it, we saw a rough path leading us to the Ghaggar riverbed. We noticed there was a large area under a bridge that could easily accommodate our Jeep Compass. We cautiously drove the vehicle on to the slightly rocky place. Now, it was the turn of the 4x4 mode to be deployed. As we parked the vehicle at a safe place with the river water gently caressing the tyres of the Jeep Compass, we took off our shoes, stepped into the fresh waters and spent our time taking pictures and videos of the Jeep Compass and the surrounding valley. There were not many people in that area. We were so happy about that. An occasional head or two would pop up on the bridge above and look at us curiously. But when our drone

began its journey to explore the valley around us, we noticed that a gaggle of children had gathered around gazing at the drone. The drone had by now become a craze for them as they yelled gleefully every time it picked up speed and touched new heights. With loads of photography and videography done, we drove the Jeep Compass out of the water and up the steep path and off we headed to our hotel. Another place we liked immensely at Morni Hills was the small museum managed by the forest department.

MORNI FORT MUSEUM A museum may sound quite boring when you are on a visit to a hill destination. We were skeptical about visiting it, but our hotel supervisor insisted that we visit this place. We kept it for the last day of our stay at Morni Hills. We reluctantly left for the museum in the morning in our Jeep Compass. The museum is situated atop a hill literally as the cemented path leading to it is extremely steep. But again, when you are driving a vehicle like the Jeep Compass, there is really nothing to worry on the road, however steep it might be. The museum really was a big surprise for us and that too a peasant one. Inaugurated in November 2017, this museum is such a compact little place, yet it teaches us so much. The museum is built around a small fort which overlooks the Morni village. The original fort was built sometime in the 17th century when the Meers of Kotaha ruled the place. It was a very modest fort but it was augmented in 1814 when the Raja of Simur sought refuge in the fort following his ouster from Nahan by the Gurkha invaders. The forest department has now transformed this Morni Fort into a nature museum cum learning centre. In this small museum, in separate rooms, visitors can get to know about ways to conserve nature, about endangered species of animals, insects and environmental threats. I feel that this is a must-visit place for families on their journey to Morni Hills because there is so much to learn and so much to appreciate here. Let me tell you one thing that I learnt during my visit to the this museum—The two highest flying bird species on record are the endangered Ruppell’s Griffon Vulture, which has been spotted flying at 37,000 feet (the same height as a coasting commercial plane), and the Bar-Headed Goose, which has been seen flying over the Himalayas at heights of nearly 28,000 feet. Interesting?

THE RETURN JOURNEY Our journey back to the traffic infested city of New Delhi was something we were dreading. But we had tons of work to do for our anniversary issue of Motown India magazine. As we drove on the highway back to Delhi, we could see reckless drivers, over speeding maniacs in their cars and nasty tourists flinging their empty “Uncle Chipps” plastic packets out of the windows of their cars. As one of my office colleagues drove the Jeep Compass at a decent pace, I pushed back the backrest of my chair and closed my eyes. I did not want to spoil my mood looking at the silly car drivers around. I closed my eyes and dreamed of the green hills of Morni.

WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

2018 LEXUS ES 300H HYBRID ELECTRIC

GREEN STEP AHEAD Report: P. Tharyan ; Photography: Afsar Baig

he new 7th generation Lexus hybrid electric ES 300h (a fourth generation hybrid) has been improved on several fronts. We check out the changes and its overall performance.

EXTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES I must confess that there was a time when I found the spindle shaped grill of the Lexus somewhat odd. But the more I gazed at it and the more I watched it carefully, I realised it was a

masterpiece of sorts, like a page out of Picasso’s genius, very stylish and very upmarket. Overall, the new Lexus ES 300h looks very sophisticated and modern. Built on a brand new Global Architecture (GA)-K platform, the new ES 300h is wider and lower than its predecessor. The overall length of the car is now 4975mm, i.e. 65mm more than its predecessor. The wheelbase too is 50mm longer at 2870mm. While the width has been increased by 45mm at 1865mm, the car’s height has been reduced by 5mm at 1445mm.

S P EC IFIC ATI O N S ENGINE 2487 Inline L4 petrol, HYBRID Permanent Magnet Motor TRANSMISSION Electronic CVT POWER 175.67hp@5700rpm HYBRID 88kw TORQUE 221Nm@3600-5200rpm HYBRID 202Nm TYRES 235/45 R18 PRICE `59.13 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

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The almost coupé shaped car has a strong face with its spindle grille and compact LED headlamps. The headlamps now comprise of 3 eye Bi-beam LEDs, similar to the one that is there in the top end LS and Lexus vehicles. The DRLs are L shaped. The car also gets LED cornering lamps which are multi weather lights. So not only do these lights shine when turning left or right but during rain it distributes more light in the direction of forward travel and to the sides. The car also gets L shaped rear combination lamps. The rear bumper bears an uber design. Sophisticated features also include acoustic glass for the front and rear windscreens and special UV-cut window glasses. The Lexus also has a smart moonroof for a clear view of the sky even at night. Talking of exteriors, the new ES 300h comes with hands-free power trunk lid. This hands free motion to open and close the trunk is so much better and practical than the ones found in several other upmarket cars. Here, all one has to do is to simply move one’s foot in and out under the bumper at the centre of the car, and the trunk lid opens. One more similar motion will prevent the trunk

door from opening full. Once you slide in your stuff, you can repeat your foot movement and the trunk closes. This is so cool and so much better than in other cars where you almost trip yourself trying to sway your leg from left to right or from right to left. The boot area has a capacity of 454 litres.

INTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES The interiors of the Lexus ES 300h is an interesting story by itself. The seats are extremely comfortable and are stitched well and are of fine leather material. The wood finish strips on the dash and sides add to the elegance of the interiors. The 4-way front seats especially get massive lumbar support with separate upper and lower sections. Switches electronically control 4-way horizontal and vertical adjustments. The under thigh support too can be adjusted. There are a plethora of sleek buttons that can tune and change an almost infinite number of functions. These buttons are found on the dash area, rear passenger arm rest and on the steering wheel. To add to the delight of those seated in the front there is also a remote touch interface that again changes several settings from the menu

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that include audio control , radio control, navigation, smart phone settings, airconditioner settings etc. The Lexus ES 300h offers you a 3-way climate control. Controls on the steering can also help you change or see a plethora of settings from cruise control, audio, tyre pressure monitoring, voice command, etc. Incidentally the tyre pressure monitoring shows the tyre pressure reading of all the four wheels and also the spare tyre! Two levers above the steering wheel help you choose your drive modes from Eco, Normal and Sport. The one on the right helps you to deactivate traction control. As for the screens to view, the car comes with a 7 inches TFT screen and a 12.3 inches Multi Media screen. While on the move, the driver can also get to see a fully coloured Head-Up display of 260m x 97.5mm size. The moment you mention audio, you realise that the Lexus has one of the world’s best audio system. This one has a Mark Levinson surround sound system with 17 speakers. It’s like a theatre sound experience while driving around in this car. The centre console box has a wireless

OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 45

WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

charger where one can simply place the Qicompatible smartphones and electronic devices on the charging tray. The lid on the centre arm rest too can be opened two ways, i.e. can be operated by both front passengers. This is an interesting feature. Storage areas are limited inside, with the inner door panel cavities only designed to accommodate small bottles of 500ml size. The rear armrest also comes with an integrated control panel that can allow the rear passengers to adjust audio system, seat recline, ambient temperature (Lexus climate concierge), etc. It also has two cup holders. The rear passengers can also electronically adjust the rear windshield sun shade. The ones on the windows need to be adjusted

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#2018LEXUSES300HHYBRIDELECTRIC

manually. There is also a trunk through functionality that enables easy access to the trunk and also facilitates carrying of longer items that won’t usually fit in the trunk.

SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE The Lexus ES 300h is a very safe car to say the least. It comes with 10 SRS airbags. That is a great reassurance by itself. Since it is a hybrid, it means it combines the strengths and advantages of a gasoline engine and a nickel-metal hydride battery. No, this is not a mild hybrid with a start-stop function but a full blown one that smartly combines the power of the two sources to give a perfect carbon footprint for Lexus to be proud of. While the top end hybrids in the Lexus range have lithium-ion, here it is nickel-metal hydride battery which is placed now under the rear seats. In the earlier versions of this car, the battery was in the boot area, compromising on the space. Well, once you are seated on the driver’s seat and are ready to move, you are delighted to see the MM screen all light up the moment you press the start button, welcoming you with the Lexus sign. Now if you want to start your journey on a green foot, then all you have to do is to depress the EV button. Provided the battery is charged at least 50 percent, you can silently drive out. This feature is to be used when you are

moving out from your garage or you are getting out or getting into your neighbourhood at night. The silent battery run car will not disturb anybody. But even if you are not on EV mode, the car starts on the battery mode and is silent. It’s when you push that accelerator that the IC engine takes over and propels you further. From there on it’s a constant switch of battery charging and battery assistance. In fact, it’s fascinating to watch on the MM screen, the Energy Monitor display. It’s so cool. You feel as though you are really contributing a wee bit to the Green Earth. Green does not mean that you need to compromise on performance. Nay! The three modes of driving – Eco, Normal and Sport— allow you to choose your driving style. You want to feel the power of speed, then it is the Sport mode that you need to choose. The TFT screen displays a reddish tinge, signifying aggressiveness. Step on the accelerator and you can hear the engine screaming as it beings to devour the distances in a hurry.

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The car handles well and at corners you can feel it behaving in a balanced way. The braking too is perfect. Because of the special glasses all around and the additional insulation that this new model has got on its floorboard chassis, road noise too is limited. The suspension is on the softer side, making city driving so very comfortable.

VERDICT This new Lexus ES 300h is pitted against the likes of the Audi A6, the BMW 5 series, the Mercedes E Class and the Volvo S90. Going by what competition has to offer, this Lexus car has a clear cut advantage. It is not only stylish, comfortable and strong on performance, but it is also one green step ahead of the others!

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WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

SP EC I F I C ATIO NS ENGINE 4 cylinder, DOHC i-DTEC 1597cc, 16 valves TRANSMISSION 9AT POWER 118.35hp@4000 rpm TORQUE 300Nm@2000 rpm TYRES Tubeless radial ply, 235/60 R18 103H

PRICE TBA

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#2018HONDACRVDIESEL4WD

2018 HONDA CR-V DIESEL 4WD

A LOT SMARTER H

onda of Japan has a very cautious approach to making cars, so much so that I personally feel that they are a tad slow in introducing new products and technology in the country. A case in point is the new Honda CR-V which finally comes with a diesel engine. Just when the demand for diesel powered cars is on the wane here, Honda has brought in a diesel avatar of the CR-V. Nevertheless, we drive this

Report: P. Tharyan ; Photography: Afsar Baig 5th generation 4-wheel drive machine (7-seater) and find out what it has to offer.

EXTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES This 5th generation Honda CR-V is a bit longer, wider and taller than the previous generation, though this difference is barely noticeable visually. This monocoque SUV gets athletic wheel arches, tweaks in the front detailing and a short rear overhang and an

increased ground clearance of 208mm. The car carries stylised headlights surrounded by a wing shaped LED DRL and not to miss are the muscular fenders. All in all, the vehicle looks impressive with its long hood, the longer wheelbase at 2660mm and a short rear overhang. The lights are all LEDâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the DRLs, the turn lights both in front and rear, headlights, tail lights and brake lights. The side profile with chrome strips

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running across give the vehicle a very dynamic and sporty look. Adding to this appeal are the 18 inches alloy wheels. Thankfully Honda is offering a spare tyre of the same size as regular tyres. The new Honda CR-V has a large panorama sunroof with a tilt mode, a glass mode and a shade mode.

INTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES Once you step inside you notice a very roomy CR-V cabin. The

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WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

materials used inside are of good quality. The meter gauge progressively illuminates when you open the door to enter the vehicle. The instrument lighting illuminates and then brightens progressively to 100per cent when the ignition is switched on. At the end of the drive, the instrument lighting dims progressively. There is a new instrument panel comprising a full-colour 7-inch driver information interface display and a 7-inch colour touchscreen display audio system. The steering wheel can be adjusted for both rake and reach. The audio system offers 180 watts of power output with six speakers. The audio system supports AM/FM and Bluetooth streaming audio while being compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto platforms. The diesel vehicle we drove came with three rows of seats which can accommodate 7 people in total. The seats at the rear are 60:40 split. With all rows upright, you get around 150 litres of boot space. But when the 3rd row seat is folded, you get 472 litres of space and a massive space of 936 litres is there for you when the 2nd and 3rd row seats are folded. Under

floor storage is available just behind the rear seats. With a flat luggage compartment, it is easy to load and unload luggage smoothly.

SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE The Honda CR-V sits within a very tough monocoque SUV segment in India. The likes of Jeep Compass, the Skoda Kodiaq and the Hyundai Tucson rule the roost here. They offer a lot more power and torque, as compared to the Honda CR-V. But that does not mean that you can rule out any challenge from the CR-V. The new Honda CR-V comes with features like remote keyless

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entry, push button start/stop, etc. The diesel turbo engine powered CR-V is mated to a new 9 speed automatic transmission with an electronic gear selector and paddle shifters. Once you tap the D mode, you will be pleasantly surprised by the ability of the car to launch itself smooth and fast. The low gear ratio ensures a quick and powerful launch while the high gear ratios lower engine speed at cruising speed giving the car lower noise and better fuel consumption.

So what does the nine-speed transmission do? Since there is greater number of gears, it means smaller gear steps, thus providing better response to drive inputs. Power delivery is linear as you step on the accelerator. The new 9-speed automatic transmission can even shift directly down gears from 9th to 5th and 7th to 4th gear, additionally to all two gears and one gear downshifts.

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#2018HONDACRVDIESEL4WD

All other multiple down shifts are overlapped shifts where an additional shift needs to be performed in background in order to achieve the target gear. This brings out the efficiency of the new transmission.

4-channel anti-lock braking system with brake assist and a new electric brake booster. Convenience safety features include en electric parking brake, automatic brake hold and hill start assist.

The all-wheel drive system in the new Honda CR-V is brilliant in its own ways. Depending on the terrain, it can send as much as 40pc of the engine power to the rear wheels, if the situation so demands. The capability of the vehicle is further enhanced by features like vehicle stability assist with traction control,

The ride quality is excellent and because of the front and rear stabilizer bars, body roll during cornering is minimized. The motion-adaptive electric power steering too is also very capable, giving adequate feedback as one steps on the accelerator. And because of the considerable amount of

insulation and use of modern technology, NVH levels have been kept well under control. The vehicle also comes with a good number of airbags for front passengers and side ones for those at the back. Besides, it has also an ISOFIX for attaching child seats at the rear. As part of safety features, the vehicle also has a driver attention monitor. The driver attention level is estimated from the amount of steering input and warnings are sent out in the form of message, sound and steering vibration.

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VERDICT The new diesel powered Honda CR-V is a seven-seater SUV with a lot of fine refinement. It offers great comfort, adequate power to steer it across different kinds of rough terrains because of its allwheel drive capability and has a very pleasing personality in terms of its looks. The diesel avatar of the new Honda CR-V is sure to appeal to a lot of people keen to drive a plush SUV that has a diesel powertrain under its hood. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitely a lot smarter than its predecessor!

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WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

MAHINDRA MARAZZO

SWIMMING IN COMFORT Report: Aakash S. Paul ; Photography: Afsar Baig

fter finding inspiration from creatures of land and air Mahindra & Mahindra has dived deep down into the vast seas and found a fascination towards the ultimate aquatic predator, the shark. This has resulted in their latest MPV, Marazzo

taking on the likeness of the scary fish. How is the Marazzo in real life? We check It out for you.

DESIGN AND STYLING As stated earlier, the Marazzo borrows its design cues from a shark. This is perhaps

most evident in the front grille embedded with chrome inserts that have been designed to look like the teeth of a shark. The headlamp cluster contains projector lamps and at the bottom are fog lamps with LED DRLs. A low angle view of the front is definitely going to impress many. But an eye

SP EC I F ICATIO NS ENGINE 1497cc D15, 4 cylinder, Diesel TRANSMISSION 6-Speed Manual POWER 121hp@3500rpm TORQUE 300Nm@1750-2500rpm TYRES 215/60 R17 PRICE `13.9 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

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#MAHINDRAMARAZZO

level view of the Marazzo is not as pleasing as the designers at Pininfarina might have liked it. The bonnet seems to follow the angle of the large windscreen and that gives the front a sort of flat look that, ironically enough, is not flattering. The side, however, is quite nice to look at. It gets muscular lines running over the front and rear wheel arches and across the doors. There is a healthy dose of chrome all around including the door handles and a strip at the bottom. The rear gets large tail-lamps designed to look like the tail of a shark. While they do look different, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possess a modern flair. A chrome strip can be found on the tailgate as well.

INTERIORS The cabin is definitely the highlight of this vehicle. Not only is it spacious but it is also very pleasing to the eye. You get a piano black finish on the dash and some texturing on the left side while the rest of the panels are draped in beige. Housed in the centre is a touchscreen infotainment

system enabled with Android Auto but there is no Apple CarPlay. The multi-information display (MID) is dressed in a futuristic yet subtle purple glow. There is a digital display housed between the analogue speed and rpm meters. The display shows metrics related to the car in a fashionable manner and you can navigate through the menus using the nicely finished and tactile controls on the steering wheel. I was a bit surprised to find that even the top model only came with two airbags. Yes, the vehicle gets a sturdy construction and crumple zones but more airbags as an option would have been great. We had the top-end M8 variant which is only available as a 7-seater. You can get the lower variants in both 7 and 8-seater options. The seats get a good amount of cushioning and there is plenty of room to stretch out even if you are 6 feet tall like me. A nice little touch is the one touch tumble which folds the 2nd row seat up with the tug of a lever. This provides easy access to the 3rd row. And

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once you do make it to the 3rd row, you will be surprised by the space offered. Of course, it is still going to be reserved for people with the most compact proportions but even I had a bit of room above my head. Thigh support isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spectacular but it is the uneven flooring that will be the prime cause of concern. There is a roof mounted air-conditioning unit that takes care of the passengers in the 2nd and 3rd rows. It gets a handy Direct and Diffuse mode to control the way the AC unit pushes out the cool air. Boot space stands at 190L with seats upright but can be increased to 1055L by folding the 2nd and 3rd row seats. There are retractable sunshades on the 2nd row windows that come in handy on hot and sunny days.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE As of now you can get the Marazzo with a 1.5L diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Driving the MPV, I knew that it would not have a sedan like driving

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WHEELZ & ROADZ A driving experience

experience but I feel that it would not have hurt if the 4-cylinder engine had a little more grunt. The newly developed D15 engine is capable of producing 121hp and 300Nm of torque. While the numbers are pretty decent, the peak power figure only comes under your foot once you reach the 3500rpm mark which takes a while to happen. On top of that, while in the city, you will mostly find yourself staying close to 2000-2500rpm. With 7 people seated in the cabin,

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the car will definitely take a while to overtake others. The torque thankfully kicks in quite early and helps the engine get some life. If you are on highways then the car will maintain good speeds. The 6-speed transmission is a godsend that has defined gears which slot in smoothly. The softly sprung suspension provides a very comfortable ride experience for the passengers and

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#MAHINDRAMARAZZO

soaks in the undulations found on the road. In fact, the smaller potholes and bumps can go unnoticed if one is not paying attention. With disc brakes on all four wheels and the added help of ABS and EBD, braking feels very controlled and has a nice progression while having enough bite to come to a sudden halt, should the occasion arise. Though the ARAI certified fuel efficiency figure stands at 17.7kmpl, what we got during our short period of testing was more like 11-13kmpl. If you behave or are on a highway run, you can get a pretty good range out of the Marazzo. There is also an Eco Mode which can further increase the mileage at the expense of reduced engine performance.

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VERDICT The new Mahindra Marazzo MPV has a real shot at success because it occupies an exclusive space in the less than crowded MPV segment. With a price range of Rs 9.99 lakh to 13.9 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), it sits snugly between the more affordable Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and the costlier and feature packed Toyota Innova Crysta. With the Marazzo you get a cabin that can welcome a large family and pamper them during their commute. The engine is actually serviceable but a quicker response would have been icing on the cake. Something I wish that the company improved upon would be the number of airbags.

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FEATURES

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#TREKFXSPORT5

TREK FX SPORT 5

BLACKBIRD Report: Motown India Bureau

f you would have ever seen a Lamborghini car at close range, you would have definitely been awed by its carbon fibre construction. You might even have seen a carbon fibre laden Kawasaki Ninja H2R touch 400 kmph. But what happens when you have carbon fibre on a bicycle? We got to tackle just the question when Trek delivered their FX Sport 5 cycle to us for reviewing. The Trek FX Sport 5 is a hybrid cycle which is meant for both everyday city use and also for a run down the fast lane. The more sports oriented cycles come with drop handlebars but this one comes with a conventional and much more comfortable flat handlebar. The overall designing of the cycle is not flamboyant. The dark grey paint gives it a very condensed and understated look and I had no problem with that. What I really liked was how neat the cycle looked and how well it was finished all over. There were no ugly weld marks either or nuts and bolts jutting out. The seat is pretty decent although not the most comfortable and I would recommend getting something more soft if you intend to use it for extensive riding. The frame of the cycle is made of 400 Series OCLV carbon which has been developed in- house and exceeds aerospace standards. Yes, you read that right! Now take a moment to let that sink in. This obviously makes the cycle light and subsequently fast. But when using it in your daily life, what I think people would admire more would be how light the cycle is to lift and carry around. At just 10.16kgs, even someone as skinny as me could lift it with just one finger. Whether you find yourself stuck in traffic or if you have to carry your cycle to the 3rd floor of your building, this one will be a piece of cake to handle. The carbon construction not only reduces the cycleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weight but makes it mighty sturdy as well. This is evident by the fact that the cycle can carry 136kgs of load which is more than 13 times its own weight. There are no shock absorbers on the cycle but Trek has added some shock absorbing materials and a decoupling technology to absorb shocks from the road as best as possible while still providing good handling. You can clearly see that in the material wrapped around the handlebar grips. While these might not be at par with the conventional suspensions, they do offer more comfort than riding on a bare frame while still being agile and predictable than the cycles with forks and springs to dampen the rough roads.

The 2X10 gears from Shimano are nothing less than the best in the business and you also get a chain keeper which makes sure that the chain does not accidently slip off as you shift the gears. Those who have had to put the chain back on a cycle with gears know how hard it is when compared to conventional cycles. There are two shifters on the right and left of the handlebars. The operation is akin to conventional 2X10 system in that the right shifter controls the 10 gears bolted on the rear wheel and the left shifters switches between the two cogs at the front. I have experienced Shimano gears on other cycles and they impress everytime, the Trek FX Sport 5 being no different. Shift a gear as you encounter a slope or a plane and you will feel the change in response from the cycle in almost no time. The slim Bontrager tyres come with a sealant which, as the name suggests, seals punctures as they happen. Not having to worry about a flat is a boon especially if you are in a mood for a morning of enjoying a long ride with your buddies or by yourself. Just like most high end cycles, the Trek FX 5 Sport does not come with a bell or fenders or a side stand. But all that can be easily added on and I guess if you are paying such a high amount to buy a bicycle, you would not mind sparing a few more bucks. The cycle does give you loads of option for more attachments and accessories. There is a Blendr stem on the centre of the handlebar for mounting things like a light, a phone holder or even a camera mount. The best of all is a neat space to house the DuoTrap sensor within the frame of the cycle to measure the speed without interfering with the overall aerodynamics of the cycle. You can connect it to any Bluetooth or ANT+ device which itself can be mounted on the handlebar using the previously mentioned Blendr stem. The Trek FX Sport 5 offers a lot of innovative features and an enjoyable and thrilling ride for its hefty Rs 1.54 lakh asking price. It may not make sense to the average folks and for such people Trek does offer more affordable yet very functional solutions as well. This one, however, is reserved for those few that realise the potential of this cycle and can exploit it fully. The carbon construction is the highlight of the cycle, making it blazingly fast on flat roads and around corners.

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 57

FEATURES

G I A N T FAT H O M 3

PLENTY FUN, PLENTY POTENT Report: Motown India Bureau

hat do you get if you want to go off-roading on four wheels? You get an SUV. What do you do when you want to do the same on two wheels? You get an adventure motorcycle. But what if you want to go on the beaten path on a cycle? You get a hardtail cycle much like the Fathom 3 from Giant Bicycles. The Fathom 3 gets a clean looking aluminium frame consisting of thick tubes. The yellow colour of the cycle contrasted really well with the blue painted names and accents. The cycle looks neat, thanks to Giant thoughtfully routing the cables from within the frame. The brake cables enter the frame at the lower end of the head tube and emerge out under end of the lower tube. While this is neat, the flip side is that changing cables would be a bit of work. My favourite feature would perhaps be how easy it is to adjust the seat height. You do not need any kind of tools; all you need to do is press a trigger on the left of the handlebar. This releases the seat and

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increases its height. You can press the same trigger and push the seat to reduce its height. This is a very easy and intuitive way of changing the seat height. The only problem with this system is that you get an exposed metal wire on the handlebar which doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look all that great and can also poke your left hand. To avoid this you can simply tuck in the wire with the others or tape it. The pedals have grooves on the edges which allow you to plant your feet firmly on the cycle. I found that to be really helpful as at no point during my relentless testing did my feet slip off the pedal. The large 27.5 inch wheels have off-road worthy treads. I can testify that because I did take it through gravel, mud and plenty of slush. The cycle is rock steady through them all and provides enough grip and confidence that you can pull through some tricky situations. That does not mean that the cycle does not fit in the city landscape. Once you have smooth tarmac flowing underneath, the cycle is happy to cruise

without much effort thanks to the 2X9 Shimano gears. Slot it into a lower gear and you can enjoy the breeze caress your face as you pedal effortlessly. But city roads can also be full of bumps. This is where the front telescopic suspension comes into play. With 120mmm travel, it soaks in a good amount of shocks and can also be locked once you want to encounter some harsh and tricky terrain. The hydraulic disc brakes pack in nice amount of progression and bite allowing you to come to a halt almost immediately. The Taiwanese cycle manufacturer, Giant has made a cycle that is actually pretty perfect for Indian roads which can be full of all kinds of terrains and obstacles. The fat tyres can go over them all and the gearing makes it easy to adapt to different situations. The suspension works great but the wide handlebar will take some time to get used to. The cycle is available in India from Element Retail at a price of Rs 93,999. I can pretty much say that the Fathom 3 is like the SUV of cycles and can allow you to have fun on almost any kind of terrain!

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#GIANTFATHOM3

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 59

B2B NEWS

SIAM urges government for long term policy roadmap The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), an industry body representing India’s automobile sector, held its 58th Annual Convention titled “Building the Nation, Responsibly”. During the convention, the speakers highlighted the need for a long term regulatory and policy roadmap for India’s auto sector and moderating GST taxation, as it heads towards global transition to electric vehicle and future mobility. Welcoming delegates, Dr.Abhay Firodia, President, SIAM & Chairman, Force Motors urged the government to address the need for a long term regulatory policy roadmap for India’s auto sector and also moderate GST taxation. He, however, stated that the implementation of GST has made taxation regime far more streamlined. Dr. Firodia said policies changed in ad hoc manner, creates uncertainty in the industry and called for a 10-

Minister Anant Geete with Dr. Abhay Firodia of Force Motors and Rajan Wadhera of Mahindra & Mahindra at the 58th Annual Convention of SIAM

year policy roadmap of the sector which will give more sustainability and growth to the sector as vehicles are no more a luxury good and are important for driving economy. He requested the government to help bring down multiplicity

RAJAN WADHERA IS NEW SIAM PRESIDENT, KENICHI AYUKAWA IS VICE PRESIDENT SIAM has elected Rajan Wadhera as its new President. He is also the President – Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra. He succeeds Dr Abhay Firodia, Chairman, Force Motors Ltd. Wadhera has been SIAM’s Vice President till now. The election for new office bearers was conducted during the Executive Committee Meeting, which was held after SIAM’s Annual General Meeting. The members of SIAM also elected Kenichi Ayukawa, as Vice President of SIAM. Ayukawa has been Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited since April 1, 2013. Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles (VECV) has been elected as Treasurer of SIAM. He replaces Kenichi Ayukawa.

of organization with which the sector has to deal with. He said incompatible and contradictory regulatory environment could shy away investments from the country. Vehicles are integrated, complex machinery and are manufactured with technical regulations which are globally compatible and follow international norms, he added. He said in just four years of moving from BSIV to BSVI emissions is very fast and given the fact that the industry today is far more complex, there is a need to build an ecosystem and the transition needs to be gradual than having a sudden disruption. He also stated that IC engines are not going to roll over and die, and will continue for a decade. Ram Venkataramani,

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President, Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA) & Executive Director, IP Rings said the quality of exports have changed significantly and provide job opportunity to over 3.2 million people in India. “There is a significant room for growth. More than 60 per cent of India’s exports go to matured markets in Europe. We are committed to 2020 BS VI deadline and we move ahead to transition to autonomous, connected vehicles,” he stated. Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, who was the Guest of Honour said the auto sector is facing huge disruption as it moves from IC (Internal Combustion) engines to electric vehicles. He, however, insisted that the auto sector must invest

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B2B NEWS

more on innovation and R&D. “Let our R&D expenditure go beyond one percent. Modern mobility, which is connected, shared and data driven will reduce carbon footprint. We have to plan this transition. And this has to be carefully managed. NITI Aayog is open to new ideas and suggestions,” Dr Kumar asserted. He further informed that the NITI Aayog is finalising framework for auto industry and is coordinating with state

governments to form a task force and come out with a paper for future mobility. Speaking at SIAM’s Annual Convention, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, MAnant G Geete assured that the government would soon come out with the new auto policy. He explained that any policy shouldn’t be made in a hurry and that each and every aspects of the industry would be discussed with the

industry and considered before finalizing the new auto policy. The Guest of Honour, Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development &Entrepreneurship gave his insight on BS-VI emission norms and its benefit to the auto industry and assured that the government will ensure a level playing field for the industry. Nitin Gadkari, Minister of

Road Transport, Highways & Shipping and Water Resource, River Development, & Ganga Rejuvenation, who was the Guest of Honour announced exemption of commercial vehicles, buses, taxis and all vehicles running on alternative fuel from the permit requirements. This, he said will open more businesses for the industry. He also informed that any two wheeler can be run as a taxi in non-metro cities and this will provide large employment opportunities for young people.

58th ACMA Session: Huge opportunity awaits Indian auto component industry Tremendous opportunities await the auto component industry in India on the back of the growing vehicle consumption in India on one hand and the introduction of next generation mobility on the other. ACES – Autonomous, Connected, Electric Ministers Nitin Gadkari & Anant Geete with Indian automotive industry leaders at the 58th Annual Session of ACMA in New Delhi and Shared mobility, like the world over, will also impact Preparing for the future” was for Commerce & Industry, Civil the dynamics of the Indian conducted by McKinsey & Co and Aviation, and Dr. Asha Ram Sihag, automotive industry and the was released by the Chief Guest Secretary, Department of Heavy opportunities in this space Anant Geete, Minister for Heavy Industries, Ministry of Heavy are contingent to Indian auto Industries and Public Sector Industry & Public Enterprises, component industry scaling up Enterprises during the 58th Government of India. on the technology front. Annual Session of ACMA held in New Delhi. The event also witnessed key These were part of the note address by eminent leaders findings of a study conducted ACMA’s Annual Session was from the automotive industry by the Automotive Component addressed by Nitin Gadkari, including Kenichi Ayukawa, Manufacturers Association of Union Minister of Road Transport Managing Director, Maruti Suzuki India (ACMA), the apex body of and Highways, Anant Geete, India, Guenter Butschek MD the auto component industry in Minister for Heavy Industries and CEO, Tata Motors, Minoru India. The study themed “Auto and Public Sector Enterprises, Kato, President and CEO, Honda component industry in India: Suresh Prabhu, Union Minister Motorcycle and Scooter India,

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RAM VENKATARAMANI, DEEPAK JAIN PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT, ACMA Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) has appointed Ram Venkataramani, Managing Director, India Piston Rings as its new President while Deepak Jain, Managing Director, Lumax Industries Ltd. is its new Vice President for the term 2018-19. The announcement was made at the 58th Annual Session of ACMA.

Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President CII & Executive Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises, Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra, Dr Abhay Firodia, President SIAM & Chairman, Force Motors, Nirmal Minda, President, ACMA & CMD, Minda Industries and Ram Venkataramani, Vice President ACMA & MD, IP Rings.

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B2B NEWS

BorgWarner new VCT production line in Kakkalur,South India BorgWarner, a global product leader in clean and efficient technology solutions for combustion, hybrid and electric vehicles, celebrated the opening of its expanded facility in Kakkalur, India. With its leading-edge production line for advanced engine timing and variable cam timing (VCT) systems, the expanded plant meets the increasing demand on the steadily growing Indian automotive market, meeting BS VI norms, while preparing to supply the growing Southeast Asian automotive market.

BorgWarner e-Drive Module for new EVs from Great Wall Motors

facility provides class-leading design, simulation, testing and manufacturing capabilities. A highlyskilled in-house engineering team supports customers from initial design through production, enabling the production of optimized, highperformance engine timing and VCT systems. In the newly built area of the plant, BorgWarner will begin a new production line for the company’s VCT technology to help vehicle manufacturers improve fuel economy, reliability and engine efficiency.

With a total area of 43,300 square feet (4,023 square meters), the facility now includes engineering, manufacturing and office areas as well as warehouse space.

BorgWarner is providing its high-performance electric drive module (eDM) for the 2018 C30 electric vehicle (EV) and the brand ORA from China’s leading automaker, Great Wall Motors (GWM). The 2018 C30 is the first EV model in China equipped with BorgWarner’s eDM technology. Unveiled at Auto China 2018 in Beijing, GWM’s new brand ORA is the automaker’s strategic EV brand for new energy vehicle market. With the integrated design of the electric motor and eGearDrive transmission, BorgWarner’s eDM enables weight, cost and space savings in addition to easy installation, significantly improving efficiency to meet growing demand for power and comfort from electric vehicles.

Located in the Tiruvallur district about 30 miles from Chennai, BorgWarner’s expanded

Continental Gurgaon celebrates 1 million units of Electronic Brake Systems Business for safety technologies is growing rapidly in India for technology company Continental. The company announced the completion of 1 million units of Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) from its Gurgaon plant. Continental set up a line for localization of Anti-lock Brake Systems (ABS) assembly, besides Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems, at Gurgaon in 2016. Continental safety systems rank among the most advanced worldwide and cater to all categories of vehicles. With increasing awareness and acceptance of safety technologies in vehicles, India is emerging as a focus market

for active safety of 2-wheelers, including one-channel ABS for smaller motorcycles and scooters. Based on its proven ABS technology for passenger cars, the one-channel ABS was developed especially for costsensitive markets.

for airbags, ABS and ESC, for light vehicles, 4-wheeler and 2-wheeler markets. Further to investments in 2016, the company set up a production line to localise ABS Electronic Control Units (ECU) in its Bangalore plant in 2018. The growth in the ABS market

in India is driven primarily by government mandates. ESC, although yet to be mandated in India, will be the next step to provide more safety and comfort to the driver, and will see an uptake in the next five years. Continental is a global market leader for ESC. The technology company also has a range of EBS

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According to Krishan Kohli, Head of Continental’s Vehicle Dynamics business in India, “Innovative technologies and intelligent systems for vehicles are imperative for a future with zero accidents. Continental is well-equipped to support India towards achieving this. We are actively pursuing our long-term strategy towards the realisation of “Vision Zero”.

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B2B NEWS

Ananth Geete assures Indian auto industry of E-mobility Vision support Ananth G Geete, Minister of Heavy Industry & Public Sector Enterprises assured the Indian auto industry that his ministry would take them along to adopt electric mobility. He told the automotive industry that promoting electric vehicles won’t be at the cost of the huge investments made by them in conventional technology. The Minister was speaking at the 3rd Catalyst Conference on growth in E-Vehicle industry in Bengaluru. Addressing the automotive industry members present at the conference, Geete sought to assure the auto industry that his ministry would take them along to adopt electric mobility. “I want to clarify here once again, as I have done at various

Mahindra Logistics introduces Electric Vehicles for employee commute in Kerala Mahindra Logistics (MLL), one of India’s largest 3PL solution providers, has introduced Electric Vehicles (EV) to its fleet of employee transportation vehicles in Kerala. The vehicles are eVerito models of Mahindra Electric Mobility Ltd., the EV of choice for the fleet segment, and are the first EVs to be introduced in the State for employee transportation.

other forums that my ministry has never set a deadline to achieve 100% electrification of mobility by 2030. No developed country has achieved even 30% electric mobility. We need not hurry, but we have to work towards achieving maximum electric mobility. At the same time we do not want to substitute import of crude oil with import of batteries as today most of lithium ion batteries are imported from China. We need to make batteries in India,” he said.

MLL has already introduced EVs for its clients in other cities like Bengaluru, Delhi and have plans to deploy 150 vehicles as part of its People Transportation Solutions (PTS) business over next fiscal year.

Mahindra First Choice Wheels enters premium used cars business with ‘Edition’

Maruti Suzuki commences fleet testing of electric vehicles in India

Mahindra First Choice Wheels, India’s leading multi-brand certified used car company has launched its “Edition” brand, the country’s first premium used cars franchise network.

Leading car maker in the country, Maruti Suzuki has begun a nation-wide fleet testing of electric vehicles. The company has committed that it would bring electric vehicles into India by 2020. Testing of these electric vehicles will help to gather critical inputs based on customer perspectives. This extensive real life usage of the vehicles will help in validation and development of new technology. These proto-type electric vehicles are developed on an existing model by Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan and manufactured at Maruti Suzuki Gurugram Plant in India, exclusively for fleet testing. Speaking on the initiative, Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India noted, “Maruti Suzuki is committed to bring electric vehicle in 2020. The testing in multiple terrains and climatic conditions will help us get valuable insights from real life driving conditions.”

The first “Edition” store opened in Juhu, Mumbai and with an eye popping assortment of premium car brands including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi and Jaguar. To make the deal really sweet for customers, there is a comprehensive warranty coverage for its vehicles ensuring complete peace of mind for buyers. Commenting on the launch of “Edition”, Rajeev Dubey, Group President (HR & Corporate Services) and CEO (After Market Sector), Member of the Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group, said, “Aspirational buyers with rising disposable incomes are increasingly looking to upgrade to premium car brands. ‘Edition’ offers them a unique opportunity to

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acquire their favourite car brand at a much more accessible price.” According to Ashutosh Pandey, CEO, Mahindra First Choice Wheels, “The launch of ‘Edition’ is yet another pioneering move by Mahindra First Choice Wheels. It will help to drive our future growth by expanding our product portfolio and giving us access to an entirely new customer segment.”

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B2B NEWS

Nissan plans worldwide line up for India as part of major strategy Nissan has decided to bring the best of its worldwide lineup to India and also launch a product offensive in the country as part of its new strategy for India. As part of this Nissan strategy, the company will launch new products, strengthen the Nissan and Datsun brands, expand its dealership network, optimise flexible manufacturing and strengthen R&D facilities together with its Alliance partners in the country. Under the strategy for India market Nissan aims to: • Launch a product offensive • Bring the best of Nissan’s worldwide lineup to India, building on Nissan’s technological leadership in electrification and connected cars • Build a strong line up for

Datsun in India representing the best of Japanese engineering • Enhance both the Nissan and Datsun brands • Reinforce Nissan as premium mainstream brand with wide appeal, building on Nissan’s SUV heritage and leading performance globally, starting with the Nissan Kicks • Focus the Datsun brand on progressive mobility, with products offering high value to customers equipped with connected technologies • Strengthen network and teams • Double its sales and service touch points and strengthen dealership network in the next three years, from 270 today • Expand regional marketing and sales operations teams to four key regions across India • Further develop the Nissan

design centre in Chennai to ensure cars meet the rapidly changing expectations of Indian customers • Lead with Digitisation • Hire 500 employees in FY 2018 at Nissan’s first Global Digital Hub in Kerala, with further expansion plans. Nissan Digital Hub will focus on innovations in mobility to enhance Nissan’s products worldwide and in India

• Improve customer service and satisfaction, and expand access to Nissan’s products and services, through digitisation and eCommerce “Nissan is committed to India and has built the foundations to succeed.” said Peyman Kargar, Senior Vice President of Nissan Motor Co. Ltd, Chairman- Africa, Middle East, and India.

SEG Automotive expects huge demand for SC60 Start/Stop starter motor SEG Automotive, the pioneers of Start/Stop technology in vehicles, is confident that its new extra-compact SC60 Start/Stop starter motor it will be able to conquer developing markets like India and China, since it perfectly serves the smaller cars which are prevalent there. This was stated by Peter Sokol, COO of SEG Automotive, while addressing newspersons in New Delhi. “We are pioneers of Start/Stop, having introduced the technology in 2007, and have since seen it bring efficient CO2-reductions to a large share of the European, US and Chinese market. With the new extra-compact SC60 we are confident that the technology

will now also conquer developing markets like India and China, since it perfectly serves the smaller cars which are prevalent there,” he said. SEG Automotive has ongoing projects that aim to also roll out the new product to other OEMs in India and other markets like Brazil, China and Europe, further solidifying its role as technology leader and one of the most significant global suppliers. “Start/Stop is an important technology to make cars more environmentally friendly, offering immediate fuel efficiency increases of up to 8%. We were the first movers in India for

introducing Start/ Stop technology in 2008, however, it was mostly fitted in larger cars. The new SC60 Start/ Stop starter motor is developed specifically with the Indian market in mind for smaller combustion engines: it is amongst the smallest of its kind in the world and able to fit in compact cars, yet it provides up to 1.2kW starting power. It was premiered in India recently by both Indian and international OEMs, with the development and application engineering happening in close cooperation

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between central R&D in Germany and the local team in Bangalore. The SC60 is an efficient answer to reduce pollution by decreasing fuel consumption and help OEMs reach the new, more stringent CAFC goals defined by the Indian government,” stated Anil Kumar M R, Managing Director, SEG Automotive India.

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B2B NEWS

GLOBAL MOBILITY SUMMIT-MOVE 2018

Need to create mobility eco-system in sync with nature: Narendra Modi “The need of the hour is to create a mobility eco-system that is in sync with nature.... When India transforms mobility, it benefits one fifth of mankind. It also becomes a scaled success story, for others to replicate. Let us build a template, for the world to adopt.”

In one of most inspiring speeches on mobility and the need to conserve nature, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the need of the hour is to create a mobility eco-system that is in sync with nature. He said he was convinced that the ‘Mobility Revolution’ is an enabler of the country’s growth and development. “When India transforms mobility, it benefits one fifth of mankind. It also becomes a scaled success story, for others to replicate. Let us build a template, for the world to adopt,” Modi said while inaugurating ‘MOVE: Global Mobility Summit” in New Delhi. The Prime Minister also outlined

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the vision for the future of mobility in India based on 7 C’s. The 7 C’s are Common, Connected, Convenient, Congestion-free, Charged, Clean and Cutting-edge. He exhorted the youth to grab this opportunity to lead a new era of innovation. “This is the future. This is the sector that will absorb everything from those with doctors to engineers to drivers to mechanics. We should embrace this revolution early, and leverage our strengths to lead the mobility innovation ecosystem both for ourselves and for others. The talent and technology assembled here today, has the capability of making a transformative mobility shift for India and the world,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the Global Mobility Summit-MOVE 2018 said, the need of the hour is to create a mobility eco-system that is in sync with nature.

He told the gathering of auto industry leaders and others that mobility is a key driver of the economy. Better mobility reduces the burden of travel and transportation and can boost economic growth. It is already a major employer and can create the next generation of jobs. He said that mobility is critical to preserving our planet. Road transport accounts for one fifth of global Carbon dioxide emissions. This threatens to choke cities and raise global temperatures. He said mobility is the next frontier in our fight against climate change. “Better mobility can provide for better jobs, smarter infrastructure, and improve the quality

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of life. It can also reduce costs, expand economic activity and protect the planet. Thus, the mobility sector impacts larger public outcomes,” he emphasised.

MOBILITY IS BASED ON 7 C’S Elaborating on his vision for the future of mobility in India is based on 7 C’s – Common, Connected, Convenient, Congestion-free, Charged, Clean and Cutting-edge, the Prime Minister said that the first C- Common means that the public transport must be the cornerstone of our mobility initiatives. Our focus must

also go beyond cars, to other vehicles such as scooters and rickshaws. Large segments of the developing world depend on these vehicles for mobility. As for Connected mobility, the Prime Minister said the internet-enabled Connected Sharing Economy is emerging as the fulcrum of mobility. We must leverage the full potential for vehicle pooling and other innovative technical solutions to improve private vehicle utilisation, he said. As for Convenient mobility, it means safe, affordable and accessible for all sections of

the society. This includes the elderly, the women and the specially abled, Modi said. He also called for Congestion free mobility which he said is critical to check the economic and environment costs of congestion. Hence, there should be emphasis on ending bottlenecks of networks.

deploy break-through battery technology,” he added.

The fifth C is Charged mobility, he said and this is the way forward. “We want to drive investments across the value chain from batteries to smart charging to electric vehicle manufacturing. India’s business leaders and manufacturers are now poised to develop and

Equally important is Clean Mobility powered by clean energy, which the Prime Minister said is our most powerful weapon in our fight against climate change. Finally, elaborating on Cutting-edge, he pointed out that Mobility is like the Internet in its early days. It is Cutting-edge. It is the next big innovation sector, he said. Entrepreneurs should see mobility as a sector with immense opportunity for innovation and growth. It is a sector where innovation can help solve problems for public good.

Mahindra showcases Treo electric three-wheeler range Mahindra & Mahindra showcased its latest electric vehicles, the lithium ion battery powered electric three wheelers, Treo and Treo Yaari, at MOVE 2018, the Global

Mobility Summit. The vehicles were showcased to Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, in the presence of Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group and Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, M&M Ltd, among other key dignitaries from the Government and the company. Anand Mahindra delivered the key note address at the opening session of MOVE 2018, which focused on the Future of Mobility.

Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, M&M Ltd

The Treo and Treo Yaari will be

available in the market as D+3 and D+4 variants of the electric three-wheelers respectively. The Treo electric 3-wheeler range is powered by the latest lithium ion battery technology, which is more durable and requires lower maintenance compared to other battery chemistry. The company also displayed its other mobility innovations at MOVE 2018. They included the modular and scalable electric platform, MESMA, the demonstration of the software mobility solution, NEMO and futuristic muscle electric pod concept, UDO. Mahindra also presented a digital showcase of its Future of Mobility ecosystem, which will be clean, connected and convenient.

THE TREO FEATURES:

• ‘Zero Pollution’ Lithium ion Battery Technology – lower

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maintenance, longer life • In-built strong crash guard, dent and rust-free body • Comfortable noiseless and vibration free drive • Ergonomically designed, spacious interiors • Modern and stylish exterior design • Digital instrument cluster • Remote monitoring of mileage, location, and battery status through NEMO tech Offering a range of options to customers, both Treo and Treo Yaari will have soft top and hard top variants. Treo represents the next generation of last mile mobility solutions which offer Telematics technology enabled connected features like remote monitoring of range, charge status etc. The features are powered by Mahindra Electric’s NEMO and are available as a value add to the vehicles.

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B2B NEWS

Hyundai showcases Kona Electric at Global Mobility Summit 2018 Hyundai Motor Company has strengthened its commitment to delivering ‘Shared’, ‘Connected’ and ‘Zero Emission Mobility’ at the Global Mobility Summit in New Delhi. Hyundai showcased the Kona Electric at ‘Move: The Global Mobility Summit 2018’ – showcasing the strengths of its SUV model combined with the innovative technology of an electric powertrain. “We are glad to participate in ‘Move: The Global Mobility Summit’ and be a part of exchange of ideas to make the dream of future mobility transform into reality,” said Euisun Chung, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor Company. “Hyundai is already leading the future mobility solutions and is committed to realise India’s vision of ‘Shared’, ‘Connected’ and ‘Zero Emission

Mobility’. Hyundai has a long-term commitment towards Make-in-India for the past 20 years and today we are proud to showcase the Kona Electric at the Global Mobility Summit,” he added. PM Narendra Modi with Hyundai officials

“The Kona Electric is a true expression of Hyundai’s technological advancements in the field of Eco & Clean Mobility. I am confident that this Global Mobility Summit will herald a

new era of Smart and Clean mobility in India,” he further aded. Hyundai’s smart mobility solution is based on three pillars, ‘Clean Mobility’, ‘Freedom in Mobility’ and ‘Connected Mobility’. Under the first pillar of ‘Clean Mobility’, the electric vehicle is one of the most important components to achieving this mission. Hyundai is fully prepared to deliver every type of electric vehicle including hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), electric vehicles (EV), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV).

Modi meets up with SAIC President; MG ERX5 displayed by MG Motor India At the MOVE Global Mobility Summit 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the MG Motor India pavilion. The company owned by China’s SAIC Motor Corporation had displayed the MG ERX5. The car boasts of an industry best range of 425 kilometers on a single charge. Besides, the car charges in 45-60 minutes with use of a fast charger. The Prime Minister also met Chen Zhixin, President, SAIC Motor Corp. and Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India. Zhixin announced that MG Motors

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India, SAIC’s fully owned subsidiary, is planning to invest over USD 500 Million (Rs 3605 crore at current rates) in the country by 2020. He stated this at the MOVE Global Mobility Summit organised by Niti Aayog. It was on June 5, 2017 that SAIC Motor, China’s largest automaker, had launched the Roewe ERX5, the world’s first electric internetconnected SUV, along with a “YunOS Auto map for charging” in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, setting a new milestone in the

PM Narendra Modi with MG Motor officials

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intelligent connected vehicle industry. MG Motor and Roewe are a part of SAIC Motor Corporation. This SUV was seen earlier this year being tested in India. The company confirmed that the vehicle is being tested here.

It also tested the SAIC E100, a two-door micro-mini that rides on a wheelbase of 1,600 mm. It is a city car that can accommodate 2 passengers. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that develops 39bhp with 110Nm of peak torque.

Hero Cycles wants better e-bicycle penetration On the occasion of India’s first Global Mobility Summit, organised by the government’s think tank, the NITI Aayog at New Delhi, Pankaj M Munjal, Chairman, Hero Motor Company, a Hero Motors company, made an impassioned plea to policy makers to help the public adopt cleaner more affordable mobility models of which e-bikes and other bicycles were integral components. Munjal, concluded that the three things required to make universal access to bicycles easy would be to promote micro-finance so that the menial worker could also afford this vehicle, enabling of safety on roads by making distinct cycling lanes and signals in every municipal plan, and, integrate last mile connectivity of public transport with bicycles. He estimated that 10 million could climb up the ladder of economic value with the aid of this prescription. He also promised to ramp up the current production of electric bicycles to meet expected demand post the NITI Aayog’s proposals to boost electric vehicle use. Mobility affects many facets of inclusive and sustainable

development including access to jobs, opportunities, markets, education and healthcare. Smart city design and the creation of living spaces require integral components for easy movement. The ability to commute also plays a role in pulling people out of poverty. “About 32 crore people walk daily to work, to school or to commute distances up to 6 kilometers. Studies have revealed that if 12% of them are given access to wheels, the national GDP moves up by 100 basis points. Environmental

pollution, fossil fuel depletion, lifestyle disease and traffic congestion are urgent problems owing their genesis to current models of transport which do not accommodate space for cleaner, more affordable, low maintenance alternatives to motor vehicles, in particular, bicycles and even e-bikes, which give similar performance to scooters at a fraction of the cost”, Munjal said. While one can easily get a loan for a motorcycle, none are forthcoming for buying an e-bike. Bicycles can form

a critical part of intermodal and multimodal conveyance where a user covers parts of her journey on different optimal modes chosen according to the situation. Currently, Hero Cycles offers one of the cheapest e-bikes in the market – the E-Zephyr, priced at Rs 27,000 and a running cost of just Rs 7 for each 100 kilometers of travel, which is just 1/50th of the cost of maintaining a motorcycle. E-bikes are also leaner and better able to reduce traffic volume.

PM Narendra Modi at the Hero Cycle pavillion

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 69

B2B NEWS

ABB showcases the Terra HP fast-charging system For the first time in India, ABB showcased the Terra HP fast-charging system, which can power up a car for 200 km in just a single charge in just 8 minutes. It is ideally suited for highway rest stops and petrol stations, where the highest power is required to minimise charging time.

Spiesshofer commended the Indian government for its ambitious, enlightened vision for transforming the transport system to e-mobility. He further highlighted a few of ABB’s pioneering technologies with which they looks forward to support India’s e-mobility revolution.

ABB is a pioneering technology leader in power grids, electrification products, indus-trial automation and robotics and motion, serving customers in utilities, industry and transport & infra-structure globally.

“ABB’s presence in India dates back over a century, and we have been manufacturing here for 60 years. ABB is helping India to achieve its ambitious goals of moving towards a stronger, smarter and greener grid, advancing industrial development through the “Make in India” initiative, and shifting towards a low-carbon, sustainable transport system”, he noted.

Ulrich Spiesshofer, Chief Executive Officer of ABB showcased the Terra HP fastcharging system at the MOVE Global Mobility Summit 2018. He was one of the key industry leaders to deliver his thoughts at the inaugural session in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his address, Ulrich

ABB is working with partners, including OEMs and Niti Aayog on EV charging models. The company, he said, had

revolutionized EV charging infrastructure. “Seven years ago we revolutionized electric vehicle charging by using direct current, which reduced charging times to tens of minutes, rather than the many hours needed with AC. Today, ABB has the largest installed base of fast-chargers

Ulrich Spiesshofer, Chief Executive Officer of ABB with ABB fast-charger at the MOVE Global Mobility Summit 2018

worldwide – 8,000 stations in 68 countries,” he added. A few months ago, at the Hanover industry fair in Germany, the company had launched a new recordbreaking, new Terra High Power EV charger, which is able to deliver enough charge in just eight minutes to power an electric car for 200 kilometers. The company brought one of these fastchargers to the event in New Delhi. In his closing remarks, Ulrich said that India can leapfrog other nations by embracing e-mobility now, and become a world leader in sustainable transport, while reducing emissions and dependence on imported fossil fuels. At the same time, India can use e-mobility as a lever to move its industry up the value chain and to drive economic growth.

SMEV hails Modi’s vision for future of mobility The Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the future of mobility, shared at ‘MOVE’ Summit. Commenting on PM Modi’s speech, Director General of SMEV, Sohinder Gill said, “We totally support our PM’s view that we must also focus on scooters and rickshaws, rather than focusing only on four-wheelers. These segments have huge potential to bring mass electric mobility across the country. PM also came up with very interesting concept of clean kms and clean energy complimenting clean mobility. We hope the country would soon get a stable and long term policy on the lines of the encouraging speech given by the Prime Minister.” “SMEV strongly advocates the imposition of a micro green

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cess on the polluting vehicles and use it to accelerate electric mobility in the country. For instance, a mere Rs 500 green cess on the purchase of each petrol two-wheeler will generate a whopping Rs 3000cr in 3 years, without putting any burden on the government exchequer. This will be enough to convert at least 20% existing petrol two-wheelers into electric by frontloading the customer incentives, bringing their prices down to the level of conventional two-wheelers. The green cess fund can also be used to run a major campaign akin to Swachh Bharat on the benefits of adopting electric mobility. The ‘Clean Air Campaign’ can create massive awareness on electric mobility, influencing the mindset of customers to adopt electric mobility to make India less polluting and its citizens healthier”, added Gill.

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B2B NEWS

JK Tyre inaugurates Raghupati Singhnia Centre of Excellence R&D Centre at Mysore Leading Indian tyre manufacturer JK Tyre & Industries Ltd unveiled their state-of-the-art ‘global technology centre’—Raghupati Singhania Centre of Excellence (RPSCOE) at Mysore, to reemphasise their commitment for innovation and excellence. HD Kumaraswamy, Chief Minister of Karnataka inaugurated the global research and technology centre with Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. Also present were Jitendra J Jadhav, Director, National Aerospace Laboratory, Bangalore as Guest of Honour; GT Devegowda, Minister for Higher Education & District in Charge Minister; Sa Ra Mahesh, Minister for Tourism & Sericulture; Pratap Simha,

(C) Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd with HD Kumaraswamy, Chief Minister of Karnataka at the inauguration of the R&D centre

MP, and other distinguished members of the legislative assembly and senior officials of the Karnataka government, including Dr. Girish Sahni, Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR and stalwarts of the Indian auto industry. The RPSCOE Centre is part

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of the Harishankar Singhania Elastomer and Tyre Research Institute (HASETRI), and is a conglomeration of the best scientists, engineers and technicians in the industry who have come together to optimize product performance and product design cycle time through simulation and

predictive techniques. JK Tyre has invested enormous resources in the development of the centre that takes root in the company’s ethos of placing best-in-class technology at the heart of its products. Research at RPSCOE is focussed on multiple aspects of tyre technology, including

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PDA Detector Machine

Semi Anechoic Chamber

developing advanced laboratory predictors for tyre performance and providing key inputs for life prediction of rubber products. Among the many areas researched at the Centre include material and compound development, future technology development, computational mechanics and tyre characterization. One of the special features of the Centre is the SemiAnechoic Chamber, a first in the Indian tyre industry, which uses specialised software for noise vibration and harshness data analysis. RPSCOE collaborates with and supports suppliers and manufacturers globally, and is predicated

Ozone Chamber

on the company’s thrust on constant learning and reskilling of technical manpower.

the first company in India to do so. Today, it gives me immense joy to say that with this Centre we have added to the list of the many firsts for JK Tyre. We want RPSCOE to become an aspiration not only for the people of Mysore but for the whole country. It has been a good beginning, now the people of Karnataka and Mysore will have to support us in building this Centre, making it one of India’s treasured institutions for R&D.”

Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd, said the new R&D Centre reiterated his company’s trust in technology. “RPSCOE is a celebration of excellence, it is testimony to JK Tyre’s ethos of investing in technology,” he said. “Ever since we introduced India to radial tyre technology in 1977, we have continued our search to stoke the scientific temperament. A year ago, we rolled out our 10 millionth truck/bus radial tyre from our plant Tyre Rolling Resistance in Mysore, becoming

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Tyre Testing

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B2B NEWS

Automechanika Frankfurt cracks the 5000 exhibitor mark

Pics courtesy: Messe Frankfurt/ Automechanika

The 25th edition of Automechanika Frankfurt cracked the 5.000 exhibitor mark. The mega auto components show was held from September 11 to 15, 2018. The fair brought together the megatrends of the Automotive Aftermarket, digitalisation and clean vehicles, on one stage. This year, the Automechanika Innovation Awards, for the first time, honoured more than 100 innovations in the fields of equipment, parts, accessories, management and services. Never before had the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest aftermarket fair had so much to offer for trucks, vans, buses and trailers. This year also featured the first Truck Competence Symposium with a high-quality panel and a training workshop for commercial vehicle professionals. Around 1,000 companies

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showcased their products and solutions for commercial vehicles at the Automechanika Frankfurt. The fair also responded to the growing importance of commercial vehicles for workshops and spare parts dealers by expanding its supporting programme. Olaf Mußhoff, Director of Automechanika Frankfurt: “Retrofit solutions for commercial vehicles are becoming ever more important, and we have been investing in our portfolio to strengthen the professional commercial vehicle market.” The five-day fair drew 136,000 trade visitors from 181 countries –another record. Of these, approximately 10,000 were at the event for the first time. Around 82 percent of exhibitors said they had achieved their goals for the event. The megatrends at the fair were digitisation, clean vehicles and classic cars. More than 5,000 companies presented their new products and solutions in an area of approx. 315,000 square metres.

BKT makes its debut at Automechanika 2018 in Frankfurt

Over 100 Indian component manufacturers showcase tech capabilities

India-based BKT made its debut at Automechanika 2018 in Frankfurt, the world’s leading trade fair for the automotive service industry. The 25th edition of the tradeshow for the first time also included the Reifen show on tyres. The BKT booth hosted a giant dumper and a huge tractor that are both fully made of plexiglass. The dumper had a weight of 6.5 tons and was built by means of a load-bearing structure consisting of 68 connecting tubes and 530 turned nylon spacers fastening 127 plexiglass sheets (4 tons) that were cut by means of laser technology.This piece of mega equipment scaled 1:1 was fitted with

Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA), the apex body representing the interest of the Indian auto component manufacturers participated at the 25th Anniversary Year of Automechanika, Frankfurt. Around 52 leading ACMA members, of the over 100 participants from India, displayed their latest aftermarket products and technologies at the Messe Frankfurt. Ram Venkataramani, President, ACMA said, “We are thrilled to be a part of one of the most significant automotive aftermarket trade shows in Europe. The region (Europe) continues to be the largest destination with 34% of Indian exports of which Germany,

six Earthmax SR 45 M tyres (size 24.00 R 35), which are specifically designed for rigid dumpers. Since these tyres must provide maximum performance even under the toughest conditions, they feature an all steel casing, a class E-4 tread depth as well as cut resistant and heat resistant compounds. This mix of elements ensures both excellent traction and outstanding resistance even over long-haul operations. The plexiglass tractor, instead, had a weight of 1,500 kg and is equipped with the latest-generation tyre, namely Agrimax V-Flecto in the two sizes VF 710/60 R 42 NRO and VF 600/60 R 30 NRO.

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with 7%, has the leading share. We are confident, that with over 100 Indian component manufacturers participating at the Automechanika Frankfurt, the event offers bright business prospects”. The Indian auto component industry has been growing by 18.3% over the previous fiscal, registering a turnover of USD 51.2 billion, while exports grew by 23.9% to USD 13.5 billion. ACMA together with Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India, will be organising the 4th ACMA Automechanika New Delhi from February 14 to 17, 2019 at New Delhi, India. Spread across an area of 20,500 sqmts (gross) the show will welcome 600+ exhibitors and 19000+ business visitors.

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BUSWORLD INDIA 2018

New buses and products unveiled at 8th Edition in Bengaluru The 8th edition of BusWorld India targeting the Indian bus and coach industry, concluded successfully on August 31, 2018 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) in Bengaluru. The international B2B exhibition was organised by Inter Ads Exhibitions Pvt Ltd.

including Tata Motors, Force Motors, MG Automotive, Olectra Greentech, Allison Transmission, MRF, Bridgestone, JTAC, Valeo Motherson, Subros Ltd. among others. There were a lot of misses too, with the likes of Volvo, Eicher, Scania, Ashok Leyland and Mahindra & Mahindra preferring to stay out of the show.

The 3-day exhibition saw participation by over 115 exhibitors

International exhibitors from Germany, USA, Belgium, Spain,

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Turkey, China, Belarus, Korea, Austria and many other countries also showcased their latest products and services. The show witnessed a footfall of over 8,000 business visitors. Didier Ramoudt, President of BusWorld International, confirmed that the â&#x20AC;&#x153;BusWorld India 2018 broke all records during its eighth edition both on the level of visitors

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

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as well on the level of exhibitors. Also the co-operation with BOCI and ASRTU brought an added value to the exhibition. We look eagerly to our next edition and will keep on bringing the different national bus and coach industries together under one international roof, sharing knowledge, technology and networks!” Dr. G. Parmeshwara, Dy. Chief Minister, Karnataka graced the occasion. Several buses were launched in his presence. These included • Unveiling and launch of 3 luxury coaches by MG Automotives. These included Glider Seater with 43 seats and Glider Z sleeper with 30 berths based on Bharat Benz chassis. DreamZ a Luxury sleeper based on Mercedes multi axle chassis was also launched. • Force Motors unveiled India’s 1st 33/41-seater monocoque bus by the name of Traveller Monobus, which marked its foray into ‘Midibus’ category. Other new vehicles on display were Traveller Rural Bus, Traveller T23350 & Traveller 26AC CNG • Tata Motors showcased five new public transport vehicles at the BusWorld India 2018. Equipped with state-of-theart technology and advanced safety features, the new range of transport solutions on display were- Starbus Ultra AC 22-Seater Push back, Starbus 12-Seater AC Maxi cab, WINGER 12-Seater, Tata 1515 MCV Staff Bus and Magna intercity coach.

Capella based on Bharat Benz Chassis. • A fully electric 11-seater Maxi Cab along with a 39-seater electric bus was launched by Olectra Greentech (formerly Goldstone Infratech) in collaboration with BYD China. Prasan Firodia, MD, Force Motors said “We are delighted to have been part of this exhibition and are happy with the number of prospective customers who visited our stall and showed interest in our new monocoque offerings in the midi bus segment”

“At MG, we consider BusWorld as our strategic partner in providing us the right platform in showcasing our Bus & Coach range and capabilities to the right audience (OEM’s, Retailers, Dealers and Suppliers) and create a brand visibility across India and abroad. We are glad to share that footfalls at MG Pavillion was incredible since the first day of the event, and we are happy to close concrete orders for all our coach models displayed at the MG pavilion. In addition, we also had an opportunity to discuss strategic tie ups with other suppliers

for tech transfer and product innovation. We acknowledge the extended support provided by BusWorld team throughout the event and look forward to a grand showcasing at BusWorld 2020” said a statement by MG Automotives. BusWorld India 2018, saw participation by the entire spectrum of vehicle, body, ancillary and parts manufacturers, service providers, integrators and operators under one roof showcasing

• SM Kannappa & Co, part of the Prakash Roadline Group launched a 45+1-seater bus called Prakash Vega based on Ashok Leyland chassis and a 30-berth Sleeper Coach Prakash

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“It’s an enormous pleasure to have such a wonderful response from everyone at this Busworld India. I consider this as a great success with a tremendous increase in the number of visitors as compared to last year. We congratulate all exhibitors to bring in their innovations and offerings at this platform for the betterment of the bus industry. See you all in the next edition in 2020 with much more to offer for comfort, safety and sustainability in the transport sector!” - RAJAN SHARMA, MD, Interads Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd.

their latest and innovative products for the betterment of public transport. Innovative products showcased at the event included transmissions from Allison Transmission. Allison Transmission is the world’s largest manufacturer of fully automatic transmissions for medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles and is a leader in hybrid propulsion system for city buses. Allison has a gear manufacturing and transmission assembly facility at Oragadam near Chennai and is already working with many of the top OEMs in India. Subros Limited, a leading manufacturer of thermal products for automotive applications in India, in technical collaboration with Denso of Japan, showcased the latest model in the small bus segment, a 10kw unit which goes for up to 5 metres long bus. The company made this specifically for vehicles

like the Force Motors Traveller and models made by Tata Motors and Swaraj Mazda. This is a ductable unit. With this the company’s ductable unit range becomes complete. Now it has 10kw, 12kw, 18kw, 22kw, 25kw, 30kw, 32kw and 36kw units. These were on display at the Subros stall. The company also has a big unit for a 13 metre bus, a 44kw unit. The company is also working on electric units. These are for electric buses wherein it will have four models to start with. These will be 18kw, 25kw, 32 kw and 36kw units. These units are likely to be ready by end of this year. Innovative products showcased at the event included• Hidral Global, Spain showcased their electro hydraulic system based automated wheelchair ramps to make public transport more accessible for the elderly & differently -abled. These can be retrofitted in existing vehicles.

• Belkommunmash, Belarus showcased their electric trolley buses. • Agility Fuel Solutions, (HQ-USA), presented their high capacity, light weight, carbon fibre composite material made CNG storage systems which allow a better range of up to 800Kms to Buses and CVs. • Fasching Safety Belts, Austria, showcased their range of safety belts for passenger and commercial vehicles. • Hübner, Germany, showcased ‘Interface systems’ that connect coaches of trolley buses and help in manoeuvrability. • Eberspächer, Germany, and Valeo Motherson launched latest HVAC system for buses and coaches The Exhibition was powered

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by the Association of State Road Transport Undertakings (ASRTU), the official national body of public transport operators in India and supported by Bus Operators Confederation of India (BOCI), representing the private bus and coach operators. The next edition of BusWorld India would take place in August 2020 at Bengaluru. Rajan Sharma, MD, Interads Exhibitions Pvt Ltd said: “It’s an enormous pleasure to have such a wonderful response from everyone at this Busworld India. I consider this as a great success with a tremendous increase in the number of visitors as compared to last year. We congratulate all exhibitors to bring in their innovations and offerings at this platform for the betterment of the bus industry. See you all in the next edition in 2020 with much more to offer for comfort, safety and sustainability in the transport sector!”

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Apollo Tyres Hungarian facility begins commercial production of truck tyres Apollo Tyres has started the commercial production of its Apollo brand of truck tyres from its Hungarian facility. The first lot of these truck tyres -- Apollo Endurace RT HD 385/65 R 22.5 -- are now being used by Piessens and Zonen from Londerzeel, Belgium, a company specialising in transportation of construction materials. Apollo Tyres started supplying Apollo brand of truck tyres in Europe in 2017, and has since then, sold in different countries. The number of European clients discovering the benefits of Apollo’s truck tyres continues to grow. The company claims that these tyres offer favourable price/quality ratio, limited rolling noise and excellent grip. It also offers an excellent cost-per-kilometre ratio. Being the first country in Europe, where Apollo truck tyres were first introduced last year, Belgium was the obvious choice to start the delivery from the company’s Hungarian plant.

Bajaj Auto to expand 3-wheeler, Quadricycle capacity to 1 million per year Baja Auto, makers of two and three wheelers in the country, besides quadricycles, will be enhancing its production capacities of 3 wheelers and quadricycles to 1 million per year. Bajaj Auto’s decision follows an announcement made by Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to move towards a “no-permit” regime for auto rickshaws powered by alternate fuels. The Minister made this announcement at the annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in the Capital. In a communication released to the media, Rakesh Sharma, Chief Commercial Officer, Bajaj Auto, stated that the Minister’s “announcement is a further fillip for the Bajaj Qute, which comes with CNG / LPG fuel options, as more and more state governments approve the Qute for taxi applications”.

Escorts launches India’s 1st automated concept tractor Escorts Limited, a leading engineering company, unveiled its unique Automated Farming Solutions with the launch of India’s first Automated Concept Tractor that brings the power of next generation digital vehicle technologies aimed at precision-based farming. The tractor was unveiled at Esclusive 2018, Escorts’ annual innovation platform. To be able to deliver this, Escorts has collaborated with seven technology giants namely Microsoft, Reliance Jio, Trimble, Samvardhana Motherson Group, Wabco, Bosch and AVL. The partnerships and relationships will enable development of a range of farm machines

with electric transmissions, autonomous applications, remote vehicle management, data-based soil and crop management, and sensor based guided farm applications. Escorts has collaborated with AVL for electric driveline technology , with Trimble for sensors, controls, water level management system and automated e-steering, with Samvardhana Motherson Group for Smart Interface Cabins & Care Plus - a two-way voice interface for real time service, with Wabco for Vehicle Controls & Automation Technology, with Microsoft for its Cloud & AI technology enabling precision agriculture capabilities to help farmers make informed

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decisions and get more from their farms, Bosch for future emission readiness and last but not the least, with Reliance Jio for enhancing farm machinery life cycle with networked platform providing top-notch service and genuine spare parts across the country.

service at an affordable price, Digitrac as a front-end farmer interface for agri inputs and customized agri information and Farm Power, to provide advanced implements and equipment for efficient and productive farming.

Escorts also pioneered the platform of Shared Services and Agri Solutions with ‘Escorts Crop Solutions’ to offer end-to-end , state of the art equipment for paddy farming under pay-peruse rental model, Traxi as a service platform to aggregate farm equipment owners to rent out their equipment to small and marginal farmers, Smart Parts to offer genuine parts and skilled

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Jamna Auto enters into technology transfer with TBL Jamna Auto Industries Limited (JAI), India’s leading automotive suspension maker for commercial vehicles, has entered into an agreement with Tinsley Bridge Limited (TBL), U.K. for the exclusive transfer of TBL’s Extralite Spring and Special Steel Technologies to JAI. In another major development, the company envisages a capital expenditure to the tune of Rs.600 crore in next 3 to 4 years. It would double its existing parabolic capacity, enhance its capacities for lift axles and air suspension and add two new products i.e. stabilizer bars and u-bolts. The said expansion is be funded through internal accruals of the company. Jamna has nine

manufacturing plants across India located near major CV hubs and announced setting up of two new plants at Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and Adityapur (Near Jamshedpur) enhancing its reach to OEMs and After Market India. JAI has been pioneer in bringing latest technology products to Indian CV sector and was the first one to introduce parabolic springs in India. The above tie-up would further add to its design capabilities, ahead of its competitors. Announcing the technology transfer, Pradeep Singh Jauhar, MD & CEO, Jamna Auto, said, “Technology is going to be the key differentiator and will allow us to

Picture for representation purpose only maintain our leadership position in the market. These state-ofthe-art technology products would bring in significant improvement in our customer’s products”. The expected introduction of BS VI comes with a challenge for the manufacturers to

Caterpillar launches its next generation 20-ton excavator portfolio Caterpillar, the world’s largest manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, announced the launch of its Next Generation Excavators Cat 320D3 and Cat 323D3 from its Thiruvallur manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, India. After a successful launch of four products in December 2017, Caterpillar India announced the launch of its Next Generation 20-ton size class excavators, Cat 320D3 and Cat 323D3 to cater to the Indian Construction Industry. “To cater to the demand of our customers for a more reliable and more powerful heavy-duty excavator equipped with state-of-the-art technology, higher productivity, lower fuel consumption and lower maintenance costs, we have launched these two Next Generation 20-ton size class excavators, Cat 320D3 and Cat 323D3 here today,” said Gurman Reen, Director, Sales & Marketing, Caterpillar India

lower maintenance cost with much lower owning and operating costs. The new 323D3 is built to endure the toughest job on the site with the 1.2m3 severe duty bucket. To further customer advantage, the excavators come with simple, easy to maintain robust systems to keep them running all day, every day. Caterpillar has two dealers in India--GMMCO and Gainwell Commosales Pvt Ltd (GCPL, formerly TIPL) with a total of 230+ Outlets and more than 1350 Field Service Technicians. There are 19 Caterpillar Parts Distribution Centres that serve India for the best in class service experience of customers. The new excavators are launched with service response time assurance for high machine uptime.

The new 320D3 fits road contractor’s and construction customers’ demand for low owning and operating costs. The 320D3 consumes 15% less fuel than its predecessor 320D2 and shows 5%

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compensate the increased engine weight. This Extralite Spring and Special Steel Technologies will provide access to lighter and stronger springs that will bring down the weight of the vehicle, thereby increasing the load carrying capacity of the vehicle.

Jindal Stainless to witness growth in automotive segment Jindal Stainless is eyeing the auto sector in a big way. The company plans to triple its supplies towards this segment in the next 5 years. According to the 2020 BSVI norms, stainless steel is the most preferred metal for exhausts, the weight of which will increase from 20 to 40 kgs in commercial vehicles. Apart from this, there is a huge playing field for stainless steel in fuel tanks and bus bodies. Owing to India’s long coast line, stainless steel is the best choice for making bus body frames and panels, ensuring longevity in these highly corrosive environments.

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Mahindra Supro offers celebration package as it completes 3 years Mahindra & Mahindra announced that its Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) cargo and van platform, Supro, has completed three years on Indian roads and has over 70,000 customers since launch. To celebrate the Supro’s 3rd anniversary, the company has offered a segment first, three years/80,000 km warranty and three years /80,000 km free maintenance offer on Supro Maxitruck and Supro Minitruck. The Supro platform consists of 16 variants with diesel, CNG and electric powertrain options covering a wide range of customer segments and applications for both cargo and passenger movement. The Supro range is available with DI diesel

engines (26 BHP) and 34 45 BHP, electric motor (34 BHP)) and CNG (25 BHP)) options. For cargo movement, the Supro offers a range of products known for delivering classleading profit to its customers. Hence, they are known as “Profittrucks”. The Supro range of “Profittrucks” deliver superior mileage, better payload capacity and low maintenance costs. Supro cargo variants are available in 7.5 ft deck length (Minitruck), 8.2 ft deck length (Maxitruck), Cabin-Body-

Chassis (CBC) and Cargo Van. With the recent introduction of the Supro HD Series with strong leaf spring suspension, the company has registered a 110% growth in volume from Supro cargo variants. The Supro Van Range is available in 5, 7 and 8-seater options in semi-hardtop and hardtop versions. The Supro van range delivers superior space, comfort and safety, along with class-leading mileage for its customers. Supro’s versatile range of vans cater to family usage, contract carriage, stage carriage and school & staff transportation.

Force Motors acquires MAN Trucks India after 15 years of relationship Force Motors, a Firodia controlled company based in Pune in Maharashtra, India has decided to acquire the assets of MAN Trucks India that includes its plant in Pithampur in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. In a communication to the stock exchange, the company stated that the Board of Directors of Force Motors has “accepted the proposal received from MAN Trucks India Pvt Ltd in respect of sale and transfer of certain assets, being immovable properties, movable properties and other assets of intangible nature, situated and being used by MAN Trucks India Pvt Ltd at its plant

at Pithampur District Dhar, Madhya Pradesh”. “This arrangement is being recorded by binding agreements. The arrangement would be subject to receipt of necessary approvals. It is expected that the actual transfer is to occur, subject to above, by end October 2018 or may be agreed between the company and MAN Trucks India Pvt Ltd.” the communication to the stock exchange said. Force Motors has had a long relationship with MAN Trucks but on Nov 21, 2011 this Abhay Firodia-controlled

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company decided to divest its equity share in MAN Force Trucks Pvt Ltd (MFTPL) to MAN of Germany for Euro 150 million (Approx Rs 1050.74 crore at that time). Going a bit into history, it was in 2003 that Force Motors had conceived a project for a new generation

heavy commercial vehicle. For this purpose, Force Motors had sourced technology from leading German companies like MAN for engines, cabs and axles and from ZF for gearboxes. Based on the licensed technology, Force Motors created a full range heavy vehicle. According to the announcement, in 2006 on MAN’s request, this project was converted to a joint venture with 30pc equity with MAN. MFTPL, the new joint venture company in 2008 saw MAN increasing its equity stake to 50 pc.

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Escorts, Tadano Group JV for higher capacity mobile cranes

Mahindra rolls out 100,000 units of its Jeeto Platform Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) has rolled out 100,000 units of its Jeeto mini-truck platform since its launch in 2015. Jeeto is the ideal mini truck for business needs as it helps in the last-mile transportation of goods.

Escorts Ltd, India’s leading engineering company and Tadano Group, Japan’s biggest and world’s leading mobile crane manufacturer, have announced their joint venture to manufacture rough terrain cranes and truck mounted cranes. The joint venture will strengthen Escorts technology leadership and market presence in the material handling equipment space. The JV will leverage the cost effective frugal Indian engineering excellence of Escorts and world leading Japanese technology from Tadano to cater to an expanding market for heavier capacity and efficient Truck & RT Cranes and sophisticated truck mounted and rough terrain cranes in the 20 to 80 tonnage category. The 51:49 joint venture between Tadano and Escorts respectively will enable both partners to optimise their current and future capabilities in the segment globally. The JV will aim to take leading position in the high tonnage crane segment in medium to long term.

JD Power: Mahindra ranks highest in tractor service satisfaction Customer satisfaction with tractor after-sales service is higher (up 28 points on a 1,000-point scale) when owners choose to have their tractor serviced at their own premises, compared to when they would have liked but are not offered this door-step service option by their dealer, according to the J.D. Power 2018 India Tractor Customer Service Index (CSI) Study. Mahindra ranks highest in satisfaction with the after-sales service experience with a score of 831, a 30-point improvement from 2017. Mahindra Swaraj (825) ranks second and John Deere (822) ranks third among the eight brands included in the study. The 2018 India Tractor CSI Study is based on responses from 3,835 tractor owners across 14 states. The study was fielded from January 2018 to May 2018 and includes owners who purchased a new tractor between January 2016 and May 2017 from an authorised dealership.

Produced at Mahindra’s state of the art manufacturing facility in Zaheerabad, Telengana, the Jeeto was launched in eight variants that addressed varied customer needs. The Jeeto offers superior product performance, enhanced safety, lower maintenance, and 30% better mileage that guarantees more profit to the customer, according to the company.

Olectra-BYD delivers e-buses to Telengana Road Transport Corp Olectra - BYD, a leading player in electric buses, has announced that its eBuzz K9 electric buses have been put under Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) commercial service. The first lot of five zero-emission electric buses (eBuzz K 9 model ) was flagged off on September 5, 2018. These buses are part of contract for deployment of 40 AC electric buses which TSRTC has awarded on Gross Cost Contract basis to Olectra-BYD. The balance 35 electric buses shall be deployed in due course. The passengers travelling to airport would now be able to travel in an eco-friendly and noiseless comfortable vehicle. These electric buses are manufactured in India by Olectra Greentech (Formerly Goldstone Infratech) in a strategic tie-up with BYD Auto Industry Co. Ltd – world’s largest electric vehicle company. The Department of Heavy Industry, under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles in India (FAME-I) scheme has provided a subsidy of Rs 1 crore for each bus to the Telangana State. The 12-Meter Air-Conditioned low floor buses having a capacity of 39+1 (Driver) seats will ply from different locations in the city to the Hyderabad International Airport. Supported by Kneeling Mechanism, these buses provide convenience to specially-abled and senior citizens while boarding or getting down from the bus. The lithium-ion (Li-ion) Battery installed in the bus enables it to travel up to 250 plus kms on a single charge. It also has regenerative braking system which enables the bus to recover part of the kinetic energy lost in braking. The battery can be fully recharged in between 4-5 hours. It has electronically controlled air suspension to ensure a comfortable travel. To address the safety requirements, eBuzz K 9 is equipped to offer protection from short circuit, over temperature function and lightening.

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IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 sees 435 world premieres Report: Jisha P.; Photography: Courtesy IAA 2018 The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) organised the “Internationale Automobil Ausstellung (IAA)”, or International Motor Show, (IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018) in Hanover, Germany from September 20 to 27, 2018. Bernhard Mattes, President of

VDA, at the IAA’s final press conference on September 27, 2018 said that this year’s show saw 2,174 exhibitors from 48 countries displaying their products in 282,000 square meters of exhibition space – a rise of 4 percent (270,000 sq m in 2016)- thereby setting a new IAA record. There were 435 world premieres – a new record showing disproportionately high growth of 31 percent (332 world premieres in 2016). “And what is particularly welcome: the number of visitors has again risen slightly compared with the already very good result in 2016, to around 250,000. And that despite days with heat waves, storms and rain,” he added.

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In odd-numbered years the IAA focuses on passenger cars, and in even-numbered years it covers commercial vehicles (next IAA Commercial Vehicles: from September 12 to September 22, 2019 in Hanover). The IAA 2018 show focused on electric mobility, digitisation, connectivity, automated driving and urban mobility. The IAA showed that electric mobility in commercial vehicles is going into series production. There were not only 36 electric models for test drives, which proved very popular, but also numerous world premieres of

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e-vans and e-buses. The innovation trend of digitisation was experienced at virtually all the exhibitors at the IAA, from producers of trucks and buses, to the trailer industry, all the way to the large, mediumsized and smaller suppliers and telematics providers. Visitors even had a chance to ride in the CUbE (Continental Urban mobility Experience), a driverless “ContiShuttle.” LIVE, the outdoor demonstration area was a crowdpuller too. A total of 19 exhibitors presented 16 demonstrations daily, with live transmissions from the vehicles to a large screen, showing trucks being put through their paces – axle weight distribution in long trucks, driverassist systems, autonomous vehicles for the logistics of the future – to name but a few examples. Over 9,000 spectators experienced the LIVE stage in person. Around 60 per cent of the 2,174 exhibitors come from other countries. The five countries that sent the most exhibitors were headed by China (252 exhibitors). Seven Chinese OEMs were represented at the show and they included the likes of BYD and SAIC. The second place went to Italy (137), followed by the Netherlands (135), Turkey (126) and France (101). One third of the trade visitors also came from abroad, and on peak days the figure was over 40 percent. Most of the foreign visitors came from China, followed by Japan and the Netherlands. Prominent exhibitors included truck and bus manufacturers,

Ford F-Max truck

commercial vehicle component manufacturers, technology providers, logistics players, Trailer makers, tyre manufacturers, among others. They included the likes of Mercedes-Benz Vans, Goodyear, Iveco, Bridgestone, Renault Trucks, Volvo Trucks & Buses, Firestone, Valeo, DAF Trucks, Nissan, Scania, ZF, Dana, MAN Truck & Bus, Volkswagen, Ford Trucks, Daimler Trucks * Buses, SAIC Europe, Cummins, Webasto, Knorr-Bremse, Bosch, BMC, Kamag, Mahle, Wabco, Continental, Thermo King/Frigoblock, BYD, GAZ Commercial Vehicles and Buses, Lamberet, TomTom, Hyundai CC Bonn, Ziehl-Abegg, Delphi Technologies, Jost, Volkswagen Caminhoes e Onibus, Borgwarner, Kögel, Mann+Hummel, Allison, StreetScooter and Volgabus.

These attributes helped the F-Max win the prestigious International Truck of the Year award, a competition adjudicated by 23 judges from 23 European countries. This award marks outstanding success for the new F-Max. The new F-Max was designed and tested by 500 Ford Otosan engineers over a 5-year period. Tests were carried out in 11 countries on 4 continents using 233 prototype units. This involved 15,500 hours of lab testing and 5 million kilometers of road testing.

VOLVO’S ALL-NEW PLATFORM FOR LONGDISTANCE COACHES

NEW FORD TRUCKS TRACTOR UNVEILED

Volvo unveiled its all-new platform for tourist and line-haul coaches. With striking design, fuel-saving aerodynamics and safety of the very highest level, the premium coach manufacturer is taking another great leap forward.

The all-new Ford Trucks F-Max was launched at the show. The F-Max takes its name from Ford’s legendary F Series, and stands out in terms of its size, high level of comfort and durability.

Volvo’s new platform for tourist and line-haul operations, introduced earlier this year, was unveiled for the first time to the wider public at IAA 2018. The

Some of the launches included:

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range encompasses two models: the luxurious Volvo 9900 and the versatile Volvo 9700. Both feature a dynamically designed exterior with crisp lines, smooth sides and rounded corners to give low air resistance. The new “Z-shaped” side window line combined with the sloping theatre floor of the Volvo 9900 marks a totally new design language for coaches. The new Volvo 9900 offers an extra-high floor level and large glass panels to provide exceptionally good views both to the front and sides. The interior roof is eight centimetres higher than before, and a straighter transition between walls and roof creates an airy feeling with a far greater sense of space. The versatile Volvo 9700 is available with a wide variety of equipment alternatives for medium range line-haul or premium tour and charter operations. Inside the vehicles the design team concentrated on both visual and tactile quality. Passengers encounter a harmonic, wellbalanced colour palette, and tasteful combinations of cloth and leather with details accented

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of organisations. Having the agility of a motorcycle but with added stability and the loading capacity of a car, the GAius Rapide 3 has a modular design with a protective canopy and will have connectivity features for next generation cloud-based fleet management. Addressing the needs of growing e-commerce infrastructures, it will host a range of smart, connected functions to optimise workflow throughout its daily work cycle. As a zero-emission vehicle it can economically and unobtrusively enter busy and narrow inner-city roads and central districts that many urban areas are increasingly restricting from ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle traffic. BMC Tugra Truck

in metal.

BMC UNVEILS NEW TRUCK FAMILY TUGRA Turkey’s leading manufacturer of commercial and military vehicles, BMC unveiled a brand new truck family Tugra. The long-awaited Tugra was unveiled on the world stage for the first time at show. Whether on the construction site or on the road, Tugra provides low

fuel consumption with maximum engine power at every load with its efficient engine-gearbox integration and lightened chassis structure. Taha Yasin Ozturk, Member of the BMC Board of Management, introduced Tugra and said Tugra is is BMC’s new signature on the roads. With its ergonomic design, Tugra promises a warm

living space and comfortable driving, especially on the long distance journeys. With its contemporary console design, full TFT display, Bluetooth and navigation features in 7 inch multimedia, large-volume in-cab storage areas, multifunctional driver’s seat, refrigerator, beds, multifunctional steering wheel and custom designed interior lighting; BMC Tugra, is on duty for day and night.

GAIUS AUTO UNVEILS NEW LINE OF E-COMMERCIAL MAXISCOOTERS Gaius Automotive Inc, a leading developer of advanced electric utility vehicles introduced its Gaius Rapide 3 commercial electric cargo scooter based on a 3-wheeled platform that offers safe, sustainable mobility for government and corporate logistics needs. The Gaius Rapide 3 provides durable and versatile vehicle configurations to meet the needs of a wide range

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ZF ELECTRIFIES BUSES IN LONDON AND U.S. ZF highlighted two market successes for its tried-andtested AxTrax AVE electric portal axle. Firstly, 31 of the famous red London double-decker buses will be equipped with this technology and glide through the city powered solely by electricity. The electric buses will be built by British manufacturer Optare (an Ashok Leyland subsidiary) and comply with one of the strictest emissions regulations worldwide. This shows how ZF is supporting zero local emissions with attractive, inner-city mobility solutions. The second success is marked by a new chapter in the partnership between ZF and New Flyer of America, Inc., the leading North American city bus manufacturer. The transport associations of several major U.S. cities have ordered 100 buses from the Xcelsior CHARGE model series equipped with ZF’s AxTrax AVE electric portal axle.

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Fully automatic 9-speed transmission from Allison Transmission

MERCEDES BENZ ECITARO PUBLIC PREMIERE The new Mercedes Benz eCitaro raises electromobility for city buses to a new level – and this also applies to the safety level of the fully electrically powered bus, which celebrated its public premiere at the show. Well before delivery of the first customer vehicle, everything has been prepared for the introduction of high-voltage technology, from the training concept for employees to an extension of the rescue guidelines. This means that right from the start, the eCitaro is a fully-fledged part of the integral safety concept of Mercedes-Benz. The onboard voltage of the eCitaro can be up to 750 volts – which means that not only workshop personnel, but also the rescue services must be prepared in advance. The guideline informs the latter about the locations of the high-voltage components, and the positions of the emergency cutoff switches next to the driver’s seat and behind the charger socket flap. Operating these switches and turning the ignition key makes the eCitaro voltage-free. All electrical circuits are interrupted, and the voltage declines. Rescue services can then go into action in safety. All high-voltage lines in the

eCitaro are coloured a distinctive orange and are particularly resistant, or they are routed through an orange sleeve. All high-voltage components are marked with the prominent, bright yellow warning symbol for high voltage. Another aspect of the specific safety concept for the eCitaro is the impactprotected location of the battery modules in the rear of the electric bus.

ALLISON TRANSMISSION GLOBAL LAUNCH OF 9-SPEED TRANSMISSION Allison Transmission announced that it will offer its mediumduty, fully automatic 9-speed transmission globally, and that it has developed an electric hybrid system with purely electric extended range. The news was revealed at the show.

“Right now is an exciting time to be part of Allison and our industry as a whole,” said David S. Graziosi, president and CEO of Allison Transmission. “There is more rapid change in our industry and more Allison initiatives underway today than at any point during the last decade,” he added.

a world first at the show: the Hybrid Power Chassis. This hybrid system with plug-in technology offers the perfect solution for emission-free urban journeys with electric drive and longer, out-of-town tours with combustion engine, with permissible total weights between 3.5 and 5.0 tons.

With its deep first gear ratio and industry-leading ratio coverage, the Allison 9-speed transmission provides significant fuel savings as the highly efficient gear train allows the torque converter to lock up early in first gear. Additionally, the 9-speed includes an optional integral engine stop-start system that provides immediate transmission engagement and vehicle hold while the engine is restarted. Providing value for a variety of applications, the 9-speed transmission is ideal for distribution trucks, rental and lease trucks, and school buses.

The special feature: The electrified rear axle with an output of 90 kW can be switched on if required, making the Transporter the first light commercial vehicle with a hybrid concept. The Hybrid Power Chassis presented at the fair as a study enables emission-free, fully electric driving and at the same time unrestricted use of the combustion engine. The basis is the variable AL-KO lightweight chassis, which can be used as a modular system carrier.

HYBRID POWER CHASSIS FOR LCVS FROM AL-KO VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY Together with Huber Automotive AG, an established specialist for embedded automotive electronics, the chassis technology expert AL-KO Vehicle Technology presented

AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis_Chassis: The AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis is based on the variable AL-KO lightweight chassis, which as a system carrier enables modular use of the battery packs and components.

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Depending on customer requirements, the battery capacity can be adapted to a range of up to more than 100 kilometres in fully electric operation.

HONEYWELL SHOWCASES ADVANCED TURBO TECHNOLOGIES Honeywell Transportation Systems – which Honeywell plans to spin off into a new company named Garrett Motion, Inc. near the end of the third quarter -unveiled its latest turbocharging technologies for commercial vehicles covering diesel, hybrid and fuel cell powertrains at the IAA Commercial Vehicle conference in Hannover. Honeywell has tailored differentiated solutions for commercial vehicle customers dating back more than 60 years, and is currently immersed in helping manufacturers globally

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

meet escalating regulatory standards targeting further reductions in carbon dioxide emissions and improving fuel economy. Honeywell introduced its new GT17 frame size, double-axle variable nozzle turbine (DAVNT) built on its third-generation architecture. It is the smallest double-axle variable geometry turbo ever introduced and serves 2.5L to 4.0L engine sizes. The movable turbine nozzle vanes are supported by two axles for enhanced reliability and durability – up to 1.2 million km life cycles.

CONTINENTAL PRESENTS CONTICONNECT LIVE Technology company and manufacturer of premium tyres Continental presented the further development of its digital tyre monitoring platform at the show. ContiConnect Live, available from the second quarter of 2019, informs operators of truck and bus fleets immediately if there is a problem with the temperature or pressure of a tyre, even when the vehicle is on the road. The data is transferred to the servers and the web portal by the ContiConnect Driver app, which is also new. Before the end of this year, the app will be able to show tyre information on Daimler Fleetboard and TomTom Telematics devices as well as other Android devices, such as smartphones and tablets, initially in the driver’s cab. With ContiConnect Live, Continental presented a further development of the portfolio that has already been successfully launched in 15 markets as ContiConnect Yard, which works using a yard reader

ContiConnect Live, available from the second quarter of 2019, informs operators of truck and bus fleets immediately if there is a problem with the temperature or pressure of a tyre, even when the vehicle is on the road.

station in the fleet yard.

CONTINENTAL , MAN PRESENT DESIGN TYRE FOR ELECTRIC TRUCKS Premium tyre manufacturer Continental presented the design tyre Conti e.MotionPro, which was developed for the electric truck from MAN, the MAN CitE. Continental’s tyre study combines a striking blue stripe on the sidewall with a hand-carved profile and blue groove bottoms on the tread. It fits perfectly into the modern design of the new MAN CitE. Continental’s experts drafted and implemented the design of the Conti e.MotionPro based on the layout coordinated with MAN. During the production of the green tyre at the plant in Púchov (Slovakia), the sidewall shell was manufactured by hand and “pulse blue” paint applied to the sidewall while the tyre was heated. The custom-made profile was then created in a laborious robotic cutting process and refined by experienced tire carvers in Stöcken, Hanover. At the same time, small rubber parts were

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pasted into the grooves by hand. Continental is one of the few tire manufacturers that can manually produce individual designs in small quantities.

BREMBO SHOWCASES ECS BRAKE CALIPERS Brembo, global leader in the production of braking systems, showcased a range of ECS (Electric Combined Sliding) brake calipers in spheroidal graphite iron especially for the commercial vehicle market. These solutions are part of a strategy of innovative technological product and process development that Brembo has pursued for more than half a century. Since its foundation, Brembo has filed more than 400 patent families, which are indispensable for protecting the technological leadership the company has acquired over the years. The new range of ECS calipers simultaneously carries out the function of the service brake and integrated electromechanical parking brake. It is a solution that combines traditional mechanical

know-how with the latest electronic features. As for the parking function, there is a specific electromechanical actuator that meets the requirements of ECE-R13 H and ISO 26262 for functional safety: approval that was obtained after numerous tests to verify the efficiency of the overall system and the materials used. The result is a parking brake that guarantees a level of performance and lifetime durability more common to light and medium-heavy commercial vehicles.

GOODYEAR LAUNCHES FUELMAX PERFORMANCE TYRES Goodyear launched Fuelmax Performance - its most fuelefficient tyre range to. The new tyres, which are the first Goodyear truck tyres to feature full silica tread compound technology, achieve EU tyre label grade ‘A’ for fuel efficiency and meet full Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake (3PMSF) winter tyre requirements. These tyres can enable dedicated long haul-

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

fleets to optimise fuel savings, and assist truck makers to meet increasingly ambitious EU CO2 targets.

grid quality electric power to recharge vehicles and a recovery crane operating on either electric or engine power take-off.

Two new Goodyear Proactive Solutions mobile phone apps were showcased, offering additional benefits to fleet managers and drivers. The combination of Goodyear Proactive Solutions and Fuelmax Performance tyres are essential to optimise performance and further reduce total cost of ownership and emissions.

HYUNDAI MOTOR NEW TRUCK WITH A FUEL CELL POWERTRAIN

The new tyres anticipate proposed EU legislation to reduce Heavy Duty Vehicle CO2 emissions by 15% in 2025 and 30% by 2030.

CUMMINS DEBUTS HYBRID POWERDRIVE Cummins Inc. unveiled the PowerDrive, an advanced suite of plug-in hybrid electric powertrain solutions spanning light, medium and heavy-duty applications, at the show. This further expands Cummins’ broad portfolio of low emissions and fuel-efficient power solutions that includes clean diesel, near-zero natural gas, and fully electric to help each customer’s distinct needs. This unique hybrid system was centre stage at the Cummins booth in an electric hybrid utility truck, a Kenworth T370. As the most versatile hybrid system on the market today, the Cummins PowerDrive offers both parallel and series capabilities. The PowerDrive replaces the conventional transmission and switches in real time between two hybrid and two pure electric modes, optimizing the powertrain for the best fuel economics in any driving situation. The vehicle is also configured with exportable

Hyundai Motor presented a first look at a render image of a new truck with fuel cell powertrain which is set to be launched in 2019. After the ix35 Fuel Cell and the NEXO, Hyundai presented yet another milestone for its leadership in fuel cell technology with the presentation of the fuel cell electric truck. Fuel cell electric truck boasts distinctive design which sets it apart from other Hyundai commercial vehicle line-up. The truck aims at simple and clean design which is also aerodynamically efficient with a spoiler and side protector. The front grille symbolizes hydrogen through geometric shapes, giving the vehicle a unique and powerful look. The vehicle emanates an eco-friendly look with an iconic blue color application and a bold side body graphic on the container, which

visualizes its dynamic character.

NEW KOGEL LIGHTWEIGHT CONTAINER CHASSIS Kogel is extending its diverse container chassis portfolio with a newly developed lightweight semi-trailer container chassis that boasts a central extension. The new Kogel Port 45 Triplex madeits début at show. Weighing in at just 4,480 kg in its basic form, with a technical gross tare weight of 41,000 kg and a fifth-wheel load of 14,000 kg, the chassis is ideal for transporting 20, 30, 40 and 45’ ISO containers as well as 40 and 45’ Highcube containers. With a tare weight starting from 4,250 kg including individual equipment, the new Port 45 Triplex is currently one of the lightest container chassis on the market. This allows payloads of over 36,520 kg, guaranteeing maximum cost effectiveness for intermodal transport. This exceptional advantage is courtesy of a weight-optimised chassis with elliptical lightweight perforations for optimum stress distribution. The tare weight of the basic chassis can be trimmed still further with weight-saving individual equipment such as

Kogel Port 45 Triplex, a newly developed lightweight semi-trailer container chassis

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aluminium wheel rims and an aluminium compressed air reservoir.

DANA LAUNCHES SPICER 175 SERIES SINGLE DRIVE AXLE Dana Incorporated launched its new Spicer 175 series single drive axle, offering the industry’s lowest numeric gear ratio, 1.95:1, for optimum engine downspeeding. The axle is ideal for European heavy-duty vehicles and is well suited for various global applications, including North American linehaul trucks. The Spicer 175 series is Dana’s most efficient and reliable single heavy-duty drive axle and is supported by a host of performance-optimizing features, including a differential case design with a premium integrated ring gear for reduced weight and oil churning losses, and precision AdvanTEK gearing for improved efficiency. Weighing 27 kilograms less than previous products, the Spicer 175 series maximizes freight tonnes per kilometer and is approved for up to 52 tonnes gross combination weight rating. Offering a broad range of gear ratios, from an industrylow 1.95:1 to 3.42:1, the Spicer 175 series features Spicer High-Power Density AdvanTEK technology to support engines up to 600 hp and 2,750 Nm of torque. The new axle also includes high-strength pinion bearings, which allow for greater lifespan under heavy loads. An autonomous lube management system requires less lube while utilizing a patent-pending meter to optimize the amount of lube flow to the high-efficiency bearings.

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INTERVIEW

&A with

PANKAJ DUBEY Managing Director, Polaris India / Indian Motorcycle

How do you see the Indian luxury two-wheeler market shaping up? Is it still in a struggle mode or are things looking up? In the last 10 years this market has multiplied and grown with a very high CAGR. But the last one or two years have not been great because it has not grown at the rate we expected it to grow. Competition in the luxury motorcycles space is increasing and there are lot of youngsters interested in luxury bikes now. In the next decade, I foresee a high twodigit CAGR growth happening in India for these luxury motorcycles.

Indian Motorcycle riding groups are growing in numbers. Is this culture of brotherhood too on the rise? Yes, it’s important because these are big 1000cc motorcycles. Besides, the riders need some opportunities where they can enjoy together. Indian Motorcycle has created a riding group which is directly controlled by the company and we are doing a number of riding events across the country to give more time for the riders to enjoy their products and at the same time meet fellow customers. The less than 500cc engine motorcycle market

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is growing in India. How do you see this shaping up, especially for Indian Motorcycles? The Indian market has traditionally comprised of 100cc motorcycles. It has now spread out to 150cc and 125cc also. With 350cc and 500cc motorcycles doing well in India, there is very high interest for motorcycles in the range of 100cc to 500cc. As far as Polaris and Indian Motorcycle is concerned, we introduced the first set of bikes - the first three bikes were 1800cc and then we brought in down to 1200 the Scout and later on Scout Sixty with 1000cc. I don’t think I would be able to share

anything more than this on our future plans because it’s all globally controlled. I can only share whenever any product launch happens in any part of the world, whether it is in US or Europe. But whatever is launched there would very soon be introduced in India too. What about electric twowheelers and the scope of Indian Motorcycle introducing one? There are lots of companies that have got into the electric space-- electric two-wheelers and four wheelers. In India, two-wheeler electric vehicles started some 10-15 years back and companies like

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INTERVIEW

“Our ATVs are solving a lot of problems especially in problematic areas. For the military and para military in India, ATVs have been a real support in inaccessible areas largely from the point of view of logistic support or movement of people in those tough areas. There’s a lot of acceptance. When we started off, we sold a few units and now we see regular purchase from them. Today almost 25-30% of the business is to the government. I see that this may even increase further in the next few years. if we get a street legal approval or something like that, the business will grow much more on the retail side as well.”

Hero Electric and Yo bikes were doing pretty well. But then they hit a road block. There’s lot of problems that they faced in the country, so much so they were never able to realise their true potential. Now with the government coming and trying to support these initiatives or in fact pushing these initiatives it is likely to have some positive impact. But there are still road blocks to the success of electric vehicles in India. As far as Indian Motorcycle is concerned we do have interest in the electric space. Polaris has an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) which is electric and we are selling that in India as well as globally. We have created an electric two-wheeler but it’s not commercially available right now. We are not doing anything in India as far as the electric vehicle space is concerned, apart from the Ranger electric ATV that we are already supplying for quite a few years in the country.

growing. It’s not grown to the extent that we wanted it to grow in the country. This is largely because of certain bottle necks. One of them has been that since these are all imported vehicles, we have been facing the US dollar – Rupee exchange rate problems. When we started the company, it was almost at Rs 44 to one US dollar and now today it’s touching around 72. There has been a 65% to 70% increase in the cost of the vehicles just because of the dollar- rupee rate fluctuations. Then there are these cost increase that has happened in the last 5-6 years, the policy changes

in the country, etc. Still our vehicles are not street legal as it is in Europe or many parts in North America. The business is growing. We have lot of interest in terms of the Polaris Experience Zone expansion. Since the time we started our first Experience Zone five years ago, we have 84 experience zones in the country as of today. As for institutional sales, the army, paramilitary forces, police, forest departments, tourism departments, among others, have bought these ATVs and are using it in the country.

What is the acceptance of these ATVs in the Indian defence sector? Our ATVs are solving a lot of problems especially in problematic and inaccessible areas. For the military and para-military in India, ATVs have been a real support in inaccessible areas largely from the point of view of logistic support or movement of people in these tough areas. There’s a lot of acceptance for these vehicles here. When we started off, we sold a few units and now we see regular buying from them. Today almost 25%-30%

Coming to your Polaris ATVs, how has the progress been? Not just in terms of your experience zones but also your sale to various defence organisations and perhaps the farming community? The ATV business is steadily

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 91

INTERVIEW

“If you educate a girl, you are ensuring that the next generation is 100pc educated. Whether it is a boy or a girl, as a result of educating a girl, the family will get 100pc educated because you will never find an uneducated child of an educated mother. So with that premise, we chose this mission of educating the girl child. Today we are proud to say, we have completed almost two years of this initiative and we have made huge progress. We have made a difference in the lives of thousands of girl students and we are very proud that the kind of people who are joining in now are going to make this a huge movement in the country.”

of the business is to the government. I see that this may even increase further in the next few years. If we get a street legal approval or something like that, the business will grow much more on the retail side as well. Indian Motorcycle has been doing a lot of philanthropic work. Is this part of the company’s ethos? How has been the response? While we were promoting Indian Motorcycle in India, we had a closed-door meeting wherein we discussed the general viewpoint among people in our country that when a biker goes to any place, people do not perceive them very positively. They think that some rowdy elements or some people who are very aggressive are coming. And I felt that we should change that impression among the people. We should do something which is very different, very unique, and something that makes a difference among the riding community and the society at large. First, we needed to find out the root cause of all problems. Our team discussed that and came out with a solution. We felt that

the root cause of all problems was the lack of education, especially when it comes to the education of the girl child.

who are joining in now are going to make this a huge movement in the country.

If you educate a girl, you are ensuring that the next generation is 100pc educated. Whether it is a boy or a girl, as a result of educating a girl, the family will get 100pc educated because you will never find an uneducated child of an educated mother. So with that premise, we chose this mission of educating the girl child.

Whichever city we ride to, our team goes first to that city to find out not about what we should do to enjoy and have fun, that obviously the team has to take care of, but more than that, who is doing a great job on girl child education in that city. Our team then filters out the names and finally picks up one who has been doing the best work in educating the girl child.

Today we are proud to say, we have completed almost two years of this initiative and we have made huge progress. We have made a difference in the lives of thousands of girl students and we are very proud that the kind of people

After that, we find out what are their problems and in what way our riding community, the company and the employees of the company could like to voluntarily support them. When we started with that initiative,

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some of our customers came forward and said “I want to do Kanyakumari to Kashmir ride for this cause” because it touched their hearts. Thereafter this movement has been continuing and this year they said instead of Kanyakumari to Kashmir, we will do a golden quadrilateral which is a much bigger ride. This is about 8000 kilometres, but the people who will be riding will be riding 10,000 plus kilometres to participate in this ride. (One Indian Motorcycle rider from Kochi, Bernard Lazar rode all the way to Delhi on his Roadmaster and joined the Gold Quadrilateral ride from Delhi where it was flagged off.) When we started the K2K ride, there were three riders and there were hundreds of other riders who joined in between for small legs. This time we have 12 riders, out of that four are female riders and who are doing the full ride and there will be hundreds and thousands of riders who will join this community. So, now when people see our bikes coming, they should see that angels have come.

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EXCLUSIVE

It was a very painful decision to close Multix project, says Dubey In June 2015, two leading automobile manufacturers with skill sets of their own-India-based Eicher and US-based Polaris --joined hands to introduce Multix, India’s first personal utility vehicle, purpose-built for the independent businessman. Even before the product could establish itself in the country, both the companies announced in March 2018 that its 50:50 joint venture company Eicher Polaris Pvt Ltd (EPPL) had passed a resolution to shut operations with immediate effect. So what went wrong? In an exclusive interview with Motown India, Pankaj Dubey, former Chief Executive Officer & Director, Eicher Polaris Pvt Ltd gave a plethora of reasons for the failure of the Multix project. He said, “It was a very painful decision for both of us whether it is Eicher or Polaris and it has been even more painful for me as a CEO to do a closure of a company where we had 500 people and so many vendors, dealers, etc. It was a very painful process. We are still going through the closure.

Most of the work is complete but I would say that it was an innovation which was a great idea but somehow we got stuck somewhere and that’s how we had to close”. Dubey pointed out that before the start of the project, the US based company Polaris had done a lot of study of the Indian transportation space to find a gap where no one was operating. The rural areas with very bad road conditions created an ideal space for an on-road version of a vehicle that could be built on an ATV platform. “So the idea was brilliant and it was very well appreciated by hundreds of customers who bought these vehicles. Around 3500 customers have bought these vehicles. They are still very happy with the kind of an overall ride quality the vehicle gives,” he said.

thousands (lakhs). “We were not able to reach the numbers and therefore the company was losing lot of money and at the same time there were lot of changes happening on the policy front around the time that we launched the Multix. Demonetisation happened, the need to move from BSIII to BSIV came, airbags became compulsory, then one had to shift quickly to BSVI norms, all this triggered a lot of challenges for the company as the engine that the company had chosen for the Multix was a very basic engine from Greeves and to upgrade it even to BSIV was tough and then to go to BSVI with the same engine was looking to be very tough. “Then we had to do a lot of fresh investments to an already loss making concern and

then we were going into a space which was almost like an automotive space,” he recalled. Thus a vehicle which was meant to go into the rural areas to ply on bad roads so as to make life easier for the small farmer or businessman, suddenly had to be upgraded to meet BSVI norms, have airbags, meet side impact and front impact crash norm, etc “Now incorporating all these changes meant making a fresh huge investment to make the business continue after 2020 or after 2019 when all the regulations would have come into play. But we were not able to meet the business volumes which were projected initially when we set up the factories, so both partners took a call and we decided to cease operations,” said Dubey.

But the business plan of the company was to sell in hundreds of

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 93

INTERVIEW

&A with

ANUJ PRASAD Founder & CEO, Desmania Design Pvt Ltd

SCAN TO VIEW THE VIDEO

Desmania auto studio claims it is Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only state-of-theart auto studio. You mean there is no one else in the country? We are the first ones to build an automotive design studio outside the OEMs. We launched the studio in 2010. It has been a one-of-a-kind studio in India which has a clay modeling facility, and has a facility to make one is to one markups, prototypes and models. The whole studio has been based on the way things have been done in the western countries where you have a lot of car design happening. We have come to know that there are some more similar studios coming

up. But this is one fully integrated automotive studio. What does your work entail? What is that you exactly do for a client? We are creative people. We are not design engineers per se. We have to do two aspects of design. One is styling of the vehicle, and second is on the usability front of the vehicle i.e. anything that the driver or passenger feels and touches and is emotionally connected to the vehicle is done by a designer. We are industrial designers and some people call us car stylists. But we are not stylists only. We understand what a consumer requires. We do a consumer

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insight, which means we go to the users, observe and talk to them and then decide as to what needs to go in a design. But the trend in the last 15 years in the automotive industry is that the design is being done in-house by the OEMs themselves. But there are small companies that do not have a design in-house, they come to us for styling and the interiors, etc. But large OEMs take our support. We provide them a lot of design support services which includes making a full scale model in clay and refining a design along with them. We do something like

a full-scale mock up, etc. And these are taken to the consumers for their insight. There are also new areas that are coming up, like electric vehicles. A lot of people do not understand what automotive design is. A lot of EV people are interested in design. Then there are accessories which are becoming very big in the market. There is a lot of traction happening in accessories because people want to personalise and customise their cars. Big OEMS are laying a lot of emphasis on accessorizing their cars. We have done many projects with very large

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INTERVIEW

the first model could be made of foam and is called volume model. Then they would make it in clay for refinement. Then they would make a hard model. In between they would also make an ergonomic model. There are several types of models that have to be made. You have to do a whole lot of refinement. Desmania auto studio has partnered with Mahindra, Renault, Maruti Suzuki, TVS and many more. Tell me about a prestigious assignment you undertook for one of them. Maruti Suzuki has been our biggest client. When we started this studio, we had Maruti Suzuki as our main client. Proximity to the client is very important. If you look at manufacturing centres

in Europe, you will notice a lot of design studios are situated around its periphery. Maruti Suzuki has given us several projects. They have a lot of models and they need support from studios like ours. They have asked us to do colour schemes for cars. We have a full-fledged paint shop wherein we can paint an entire car. We have done accessory design for them. The way it is done in Europe and Japan, they actually do a clay model. Unlike an aftermarket where they can make a part and simply fit it, they do a clay model that can be refined. It is the last mile of beautification. There is something called class â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surfacing, the highlights that you see in a car, they come through a very

OEMs here. Big guys give you big business, because they have bigger budgets. They have the maturity of understanding each step in the process. So, to build up a car design you have to actually go through a fairly long process of quick validation of the design. People start with sketching, then they make scaled models, then they would go in for full scaled models,

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special technique of surfacing on the computer. It is a highend software where you do surfacing to get that finesse on the surface. Does this all involve a lot of software related work too? Today you cannot separate technology and handmade work. They go hand in hand. There is a lot of toggling between both. But both are extremely important. Do you think, going ahead the automotive field offers a great opportunity? I see a very big opportunity there. But it will take its own sweet time. Things do not happen rapidly as the way it happens in China. I do see a good opportunity coming up because of advent of EVs and also because such design is happening in India and many Indian OEMs believing in Indian design talent. For example, making a big investment in a clay milling machine is something which I cannot foresee for another five years in India. A machine like that costs Rs 5 crore to Rs 6 crore. It does not give an ROI.

OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 95

TECHNOLOGY

Global NCAP launches ‘Stop the Crash’ initiative in India Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP), a UK-based charity that conducts crash safety tests on cars across the world, which hosted its first ever ‘Global NCAP World Congress’ in New Delhi, India in partnership with Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE) launched the ‘stop The crash’ Campaign in India as it accounts for maximum road accident fatalities in the world. Abhay Damle, Joint Secretary , Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) while launching the initiative said “Advanced safety features is a must in all vehicles in India as vehicle safety cannot be confined to luxury vehicles only . Features like anti-lock braking have already been mandatory in two wheeler s and by next month (October 2018) all new cars will have pedestrian safety feature including new design of the bonnet to reduce impact on pedestrians during accidents.”

“India does not have Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP) but we are implementing all safety features in our vehicles with active support of vehicle manufacturers. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) will be incorporated in new vehicles between year 2021 and 2023.ABS and automatic headlights for two wheeler s has already been mandated,” said Damle. “By the year 2022 most of our vehicle safety will be at par with global standards and some safety features may surpass United States safety standards even. But real challenge is bringing in maximum safety at affordable cost so that cost of vehicles does not go up steeply,” he noted. “Stop The Crash initiative was launched at Budh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida, India’s only F1

track accompanied with live demonstrations of advanced crash avoidance technologies that are capable of preventing many types of vehicle collision before they happen. The demonstrations included showcase of how much safer cars or two wheelers can get with the likes of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and anti lock braking system (ABS) for two wheelers,” said David Ward, Secretary General of Global NCAP and Chairman of the ‘Stop the Crash’ Partnership at launch of the initiative in India. Stop The Crash is a multistakeholder partnership led by Global NCAP, the award winning international road safety charity, campaigning for the widest availability of these road safety technologies worldwide. “GNCAP, an independent charity focused on international consumer-orientated vehicle

safety initiatives is hosting its first ever World Congress in India to provide a unique opportunity to assess the contribution that safer vehicles can make to the United Nations’ Decade of Action for Road Safety and the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Ward. The ‘Stop The Crash’ programme will also encourage the adoption of autonomous braking systems, a technology that is known to greatly reduce the risk to both the car in question and other vehicles or vulnerable road users around it in case of a detected crash/obstacle. Global NCAP strongly supports the Indian Government’s mandating anti -lock braking system and automatic headlights for motorcycles. New two wheelers sold in India greatly outnumber the number of cars sold in the country and safer two wheelers can greatly reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on Indian roads, he noted.

Continental showcases 2-wheeler safety technologies Technology company Continental showcased select technologies from its portfolio at the #STOPTHECRASH India. Continental, as one of the partners of the “Stop the Crash” campaign, demonstrated 2-wheeler safety technologies - MiniMAB - one channel ABS for motorcycles and MK 100 MAB – two channel ABS for motorcycles. Continental’s solution for smaller motorcycles and scooters, a one-channel ABS called MiniMAB was demonstrated at the event. MiniMAB is a small and lightweight solution for small 2-wheelers, which prevents the front wheel from locking

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up in case of sudden braking by the driver, thus avoiding an accident or the vehicle becoming instable. The company also demonstrated the MK 100 MAB, the next generation of the existing two-channel ABS system. This is significantly smaller, lighter, and more easily applicable to new types of motorcycles – and the system is also more price competitive. In the standard configuration, the new MK 100 MAB includes ABS and a function that recognizes when the rear wheel has lost contact with the road (RearWheel Lift-Off Protection, RLP).

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TECHNOLOGY

ZF optimally positioned to help Indian OEMs meet new safety requirements ZF Friedrichshafen AG, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology as well as active and passive safety technology, is uniquely positioned to support its customers’ new safety requirements that will be introduced soon in India. The company has significantly widened its safety systems portfolio in India and has expanded its manufacturing capabilities in the country to cater to the rising needs of its customers.

The Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP) will soon come into play. As part of BNVSAP’s new safety regulations, it will be mandatory for all new cars sold in India to be fitted with airbags and ABS as a standard. It will also mandate the fitment of reverse parking sensors, seat belt indicators and a speed alert system as standard equipment in all new cars. The new regulations are expected to come into force from April 2019 and all new cars sold in India will

have to meet them. These regulations have encouraged many automakers to expand their footprint and manufacturing bases in India. With a broad product portfolio of safety systems and solutions

– already localized in the Indian market - ZF is optimally positioned to help OEM meet new safety requirements.

TOP LEVEL CHANGES IN MOTOWN Nissan has appointed SUJA CHANDY as Managing Director for NISSAN DIGITAL INDIA. Chandy will be responsible for operations of Nissan’s first Global Digital Hub in India. The hub will focus on building new-age digital capabilities to enhance customer experiences, product development, connectivity and security for autonomous, connected and electric vehicles. Suja will be based in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, South India and will report to Swami TV, Chief Digital Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

As of November 1, 2018, SATYAKAM ARYA (45), currently Head of Customer Services at Daimler Trucks Asia and Chairman of PABCO Ltd., will take over as Managing Director and CEO of DAIMLER INDIA COMMERCIAL VEHICLES (DICV). He will succeed Erich Nesselhauf (55), who will return to Daimler headquarters in Germany to take over global responsibility for Manufacturing Engineering at Daimler Trucks, starting October 1, 2018.

ZAC HOLLIS has been appointed as the Director – Sales, Service & Marketing at SKODA AUTO INDIA PRIVATE LTD. He will take charge with effect from November 1, 2018. Hollis brings with him extensive international experience from Europe and China including his present role as Head of Sales Region China at Skoda Auto, Czech Republic. Hollis will report to Skoda Auto India’s Managing Director Gurpratap Boparai.

PAVEL RICHTER will be assuming the role of Production Technical Director of the SKODA LED INDIA 2.0 PROJECT of the Volkswagen Group. The 46-year-old will be responsible for the production of all the models at the plant in Pune. The personnel restructuring is part of the ‘INDIA 2.0’ project. Under Gurpratap Boparai’s leadership, Skoda is responsible for the Volkswagen Group’s model campaign on the Indian market.

Technology company and premium tyre manufacturer CONTINENTAL has announced the appointment of KULDEEP SINGH as plant manager for its tyre plant in Modipuram-Meerut, India. Kuldeep Singh succeeds Vivek Devgun who left Continental in June 2018. Kuldeep Singh has professional experience of over 29 years. In the last five years, he was working with ContiTech, another division of Continental, as Managing Director in Sonipat.

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OCTOBER 2018 | MOTOWN INDIA | 97

PICTURE OF THE MONTH

One of the walls in the Morni Fort Museum in Haryana has a message on “Population Explosion”. If only India could do something about this explosion! Motown India photography 98 | MOTOWN INDIA | OCTOBER 2018

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RNI No DEL ENG/2010/34562