Bugatti Galibier teaser Video & Images out

Bugatti has shown the teaser Video & Images of its latest concpet Galibier over the youtube. The official name for the production model hasn’t been provided yet, but Bugatti’s decision to offer a production version sedan should come as no surprise considering Lamborghini has already confirmed the production version of the Estoque and Ferrari has brought out the FF. These competitors by no means come close to the power behind the Bugatti, but they do illustrate the luxury automakers that are taking advantage of the upswing the economy is making by expanding their lineups.

Click here to view Images of Bugatti Galibier on our Facebook Page.

You can see the new Galibier teaser video by scrolling down below.

Read More

New Audi A4 to be launched on 03rd May 2012 in India - Official

Audi India has now made it official by saying that the new generation Audi A4 will be launched unveiled on 03rd May 2012. The car will compete with the sixth generation BMW 3 series and also with Mercedes C class. Both the other cars have recently been modified creating a need for Audi A4 to be redesigned with cosmetic changes and here is Audi catering well to the demand.

On the exteriors will be the changes in the front headlamps in the LED lights which will now appear to be more continuous.The top end model will also flaunt projector-styled Xenon headlamps

There will certainly be more changes on the interior side of new Audi A4 which we expect to be in the Multimedia Interface, new steering wheel design, higher quality dashboard and centre console trim applications.

Stay tuned for more Information on Audi A4 launch. Till then watch our Spy Video of Audi A4 in Mumbai.

Read More

Volkswagen Group Sales India appointed as the new official importer of Porsche in India

With immediate effect, Volkswagen Group Sales India Private Limited has been appointed as the new official importer of Porsche in India.

Distribution-related matters will be handled by Volkswagen India including expanding dealer network. Precision Cars was the official importer of Porsche models in India before this new importer agreement was signed.Since 2004, Porsche has sold 1,052 cars to Indian customers and last year, 85 per cent of total volume was contributed by Cayenne models.

The first phase of this new beginning is the introduction of the new gen 911 Carerra model. The Panamera diesel variant and the Macan SUV rolling out next year are cars Porsche India is eager to sell.The press release shared by Volkswagen communicating this important development states that Mr Anil Reddi, who has over 16 years of experience in the Indian market, has been appointed as the head of the Porsche India. Porsche expects new launches to drive sales in the coming years and development of emerging markets is important to the brand’s future.

Read More

Neil Nitin Mukesh to support Volkswagen India in think blue initiatives

Volkswagen group India has appointed Neil Nitin Mukesh to support them in the Think blue initiatives which were launched last year by VW India. The car maker seems to rope in huge investments thus making it clear that the car maker has some long & great plans for the Indian market.

Click here to view more Images of VW India officials and Neil Nitin Mukesh. 

Read More

Indian Commercial vehicle market to grow to double, 1.6 million by 2016-17 - E&Y report

Some of the interesting facts have been revealed by the recently released E&Y Automotive space report. The report says that the Indian Commercial vehicle market is expected to grow to 1.6 million vehicles in 2016-17. Currently the Indian Commercial vehicle segment is at 8 mn vehicles as per FY11-12 Actual Domestic Sales figures are concerned. Below are the figures in details

Domestic Sales FY 11-12

M&HCV's  - 348,701
LCV's         - 460,831
TOTAL      - 809,532 vehicles

The Indian Commercial vehicle market registered a growth of 18.20% in FY11-12 over the previous year and with the entry of major International OEM's like Daimler, Beigi Foton etc. the market seems to be more challenging and growing and is expected to grow to tune of 1.6 million vehicles by 2016-17.

Also, the report gives an interesting insight that of the total length of 66,590 Kms of National highways present in India, only 38% are single lane thus leading to slower pace of travel by the goods carrier trucks. The trucks on an average cover 250 kms daily vis-a-vis 600 kms as per the global standards. This leaves a huge potential unatapped for the Indian market.

Moreover, with latest developments happening in the Infrastructure developments, rapid urbanisation and entry of major multinational players in the country will improve the situation further.  Currently, Tata Motors & Ashok Leyland continues to dominate the domestic truck scene in India with a combined market share of over 85-90% and rest of the players making up the rest of the pie.

The Ernst & Young study concludes that the competition among commercial vehicle manufacturers in India is expected to intensify as international OEMs raise the bar in terms of technology, quality, durability and reliability; while domestic OEMs invest to upgrade products and technology, strengthen dealer relationships and loyalty, reinforce distribution networks and build new competencies to defend their market shares.

Read More

Automakers making India as global man. hub - Mahindra to start exports of XUV 5OO to Italy, Australia & Chile

Several Auto makers including Mahindra, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Maruti and Hyundai are making India as a global automotive hub and considering it as a low cost manufacturing base to export the vehicles to other countries thereby making it a more feasible option and more revenue generating scheme.

The car makers have already started exporting their vehicles to several places majorly to South Africa and Australia. Mahindra & Mahindra too is gearing up to introduce XUV5OO to countries like Italy, Australia & Chile soon.

"We plan to go ahead with our international launches of XUV. Italy and Australia are planned shortly. These are vehicles adapted to the needs of these markets," M&M Chief Executive, International Operations (Automotive & Farm Equipment sectors), Ruzbeh Irani told.

Asked about the timeline for the launches, he didn't specify an exact date but said: "We are evaluating timing of launches in various markets - Chile and Australia are our priority. We will assess the overall capacity and domestic demand to decide on the launch timing."

He had also said the company will increase the output of XUV500 to 4,000 units by May from the earlier 3,000 units. Without specifying a timeline, he had also said the output would ultimately be taken up to about 5,000 units a month.

The company is in the process of delivering the bookings of 7,500 orders that were selected through a lottery following excessive demand. M&M already exports XUV5OO to South Africa.

Click here to view more stories on Mahindra XUV 5OO.

Read More

Eco friendly vehicle/feeder takes out toll for New Delhi Metro stations

It's an eco friendly initiative to be brought in by Starbus, capitalizing upon the delay of Bus feeder scheme. It's sister subsidiary, Green Wheels, launched 25 battery-operated vehicles yesterday. Branded G-Riks, these eco-friendly vehicles will charge Rs 10 per passenger.

Initially the service has been started between Malviya Nagar Metro station and Select City Walk Mall in Saket.  The company plans to ramp up the fleet strength over the next few months. The promoter of the project, Green Wheels Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of the Argentum Group, said they plan to introduce a total of 5,000 such vehicles, branded as G-Rik, within next 15 months for which negotiations are being held with various government agencies.

Ajay Singh of Angentum group, the promoters of both Star Bus and Green Wheels, said, "We plan to pump Rs 100 crore into the project over the next 15 months. Five thousand of these eco-friendly vehicles will be put on roads during that period." The vehicles, which will come up in clusters, will cover 2km in each cluster, providing last-mile connectivity. Next on the cluster list is Delhi University, Gurgaon and other locations, said Singh. With the commencement of this service, Delhi will now be on par with some of the most advanced cities in the world offering eco-friendly electric vehicle feeder service, he said.

The three wheeler G-Rik was developed after extensive research and development by Green Wheels for over two years and has been fully customised to adapt to Indian conditions.

Read More

Volkswagen plans to launch CNG Variant of cars in India soon

Volkswagen India, after receiving a mandate from its European headquarters, called a meeting to look as to why the Sales of the car maker has decreased, a self introspection you may call. Mr. Neeraj Garg, Director for Passenger Car Sales in India said we need to look upon how many satisfied customers are we leaving, means the ratio of Satisfied Customers to Total Sales in India.

Meanwhile, the car maker also said while we have plans to launch more cars in India, as we have a broad base of cars in India though we still need to wait for a time to come where we get more clarity on policies of the Indian market. Along with the car maker also said, as of now we plan to launch CNG variants of cars in India, which would help us increase our Sales. Also he specifically mentioned we plan to launch CNG variants in our existing line up, we assume it will be launch in both its Polo as well as Vento as even the Maruti's SX4, competitor to Vento has a CNG variant.

Read More

Piaggio presents the new Vespa in India at Rs. 66,661 and inaugurates new factory

Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. has rolled out its iconic Vespa in India in order to give the country its first ever premium scooter. The company is the completely owned subsidiary of the Italian two wheeler manufacturing giant Piaggio Group. With this new model, it has ushered in the era of high class ridership in the scooter segment of the Indian automotive segment.

The company has decided to bring the highly anticipated Vespa to the 35 major cities of India during the initial stages. Despite a price tag Rs. 66,661, the manufacturer expects tremendous sales since it believes that consumers will not only enjoy premium mobility features but also a sense of pride with this outstanding vehicle.

As per Roberto Colaninno, Chairman and CEO, Piaggio Group, “Today is a proud and historic moment for me and Piaggio. The Vespa is a loved and revered brand globally and we are very excited to launch the original Vespa in India. The Vespa is not just our most famous and bestselling product around the world; it is also our business card, our technological flagship! We will bring India into the league of international markets where consumers are looking to own nothing but the best. I am optimistic about the India growth story”.

Vespa has become a timeless entity that represents a distinguished lifestyle in all markets through the globe. Presented to the world in the year 1946, this scooter is counted amongst the most reputed international symbols of the refined technology and style that Italy is known for. It has emerged as the perfect representation of the ageless design that has transformed from being just a mobility product to a cornerstone of social history and a way of life in itself. The specifications of scooter are:

Vespa LX125-
Engine capacity- 124 cc 
Max Power-10.26 BHP @8250 RPM 
Max. Torque- 9.6 Nm @7250 RPM
Transmission- CVT
Expected fuel efficiency- 50 km/l
Weight- 114 kgs. 
Fuel tank capacity- 8.5-litres 

With the Vespa, Piaggio does not aim to face off against the existing scooters. Rather, it aims to create a new segment of premium scooter by itself by providing the industry an exclusive and distinctive vehicle. This two wheeler is expected to bring about a revolution in its segment and give rise to a host of opportunities for itself.

Talking at the event, Ravi Chopra, Chairman and Managing Director, Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited (India) said, “There is no better time to be in the Indian two-wheeler scooter space with evolved consumers looking for lifestyle options that go beyond mobility. I am confident, fashion and style conscious consumers will make Vespa a resounding success in India”.

The Vespa has emerged as a unique lifestyle mobility product that taps into its rich heritage and timeless values to appeal to all senses of the buyers. Piaggio has taken it upon itself to fulfil the ambitions of today's consumers who are fashion, style and brand conscious and desire to be exclusive and distinguished and stand apart from others. Its target audience has a zest for life and aims to attain the zenith of success and achievements.

In this regard, Piaggio is now coming up with a range of accessories and merchandise for those who wish to ride the stylish and innovative Vespa in style with this carefully crafted dedicated gear. Moreover, exclusive Vespa Clubs will soon be set up in the country, so that riders can share the joy of the Vespa with their brethren, just like others do across the world.

The streamlined design of the Vespa reflects the aerodynamic styling of an aeroplane. It holds the distinction of being the only scooter across the globe to have a single piece monocoque steel frame. Another distinguishing feature of the model is the front suspension system, which is a single sided trailing arm that has been inspired by aircrafts for an unmatched riding experience.

Piaggio Vespa launched in the domestic market is essentially a retro classic vehicle that brings together a set of unparalleled design and ergonomic elements. Moreover, it will be powered by an all new eco-friendly and fuel efficient engine that has been developed after considerable research on the Indian market. This motor will be manufactured at the company's production units located in Europe and Asia and will be used in the international markets. The Italian two wheeler giant has established a world class production plant at Baramati, Maharashtra to develop the Vespa. On April 28, 2012, the company will hold the plant inauguration as well as roll out the first Vespa for delivery.

Click here to view Piaggio india plant Inauguration images.

Read More

Skoda launches Fabia Scout in India with additional features priced at Rs 6.79 Lakhs

Skoda has launched the Fabia Scout, as this was already in progress by the Czech based Car maker. The car maker had announced last year that we would stop the production of Skoda Fabia as the company was losses on current Fabia. However no details were provided when asked about the replacement of Fabia. And here it is now, Fabia Scout. The new Fabia Scout has been launched with additional features including:

• Projector Headlamps
• Front Bumper with spoiler
• Rear bumper with diffuser
• Stainless steel pedal set
• Front and rear door still trims
• Protective cladding around the car

The new variant of Fabia would be available in 1.2L engines with the fuel option of Diesel or Gasoline. Both the 1.2 litre gasoline and diesel Fabia Scout models produce 75PS of power and are mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.Critical safety equipment on this ‘ready for adventure’ Fabia model now available in India include dual airbags, an integrated audio player, power windows, remote locking and tinted glass all over. With the Fiat Palio Adventure’s debut to this particular segment now a thing of the past, the question that would be on everybody’s mind is can Skoda’s thick skinned super MINI re-attract solid buyers to this otherwise unexplored segment.

The Skoda Fabia would be available at:

1.2L Gasoline: 6,79,566

1.2L Diesel   : 8,10,909

Meanwhile, Volkswagen too has such plans for its current version of Polo, however the company refuses to comment on the same. Let us wait and watch what other car makers offer. Stay tuned for more Information.

Read More

Ford EcoSport previewed at China's Beijing Auto Show - Images & Video

Ford has previewed its new EcoSport at the Beijing Auto Show and the car maker says the car will start production at three manufacturing locations in the world and will reach to 100 countries.

"The all-new EcoSport is designed and engineered specifically for customers in global growth markets using Ford's global SUV engineering expertise and reflecting our commitments for quality, leading fuel economy, safety and smart technology," said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development. "We're delivering innovative products like this to drive our global growth."

• 200mm ground clearance
• 550mm water wading capability
• Quietest cabin in its class (also applies to the Fiesta)
• SYNC technology that connects the mobile phone and the car. It reads out text messages, can browse audio tracks and makes phone calls

• 346 liter trunk capacity, 560 liters when seats are folded
• 20 storage spaces around the cabin
• Hill Launch Assist (vehicle does not roll back when starting on an incline)
• Keyless Entry and Push-Button start – these were missing on the Fiesta
• Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control and ABS are safety features Ford’s revealing at this time
• 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission paired to a the 1-liter petrol engine; 5-speed manual is also an option
• 1-liter petrol engine can deliver up to 20kmpl – 120PS/170Nm from as low as 1,500 RPM
• Still no word on the diesel, but Ford says it will also be offered. Expect the 1.5-liter unit from the Fiesta with revised outputs

Click here to view the Video below:

Read More

Fiat should bring Viaggio to India - what's your take on this ?

Fiat India has been struggling to make space for itself in the Indian market, though the car maker has launched some of the fantastic product range including Punto and Linea in India. Moreover, the car maker has also planned to open separate showrooms especially for Fiat cars, apart from Fiat Caffe in India. The car maker has now revealed its Viaggio globally but has not revealed any plans yet to bring the car in India.

The 2013 Fiat Viaggio comes with a host of stylistic changes, to differentiate it from the Dodge Dart. The headlamps are restyled, the grille gets the chrome treatment and the front bumper is reshaped. At the rear, the Viaggio also gets another dollop of chrome with LED tail lamps. The alloy wheel design is also another stylistic change on the Viaggio, when compared to the Dart. While Fiat does have a range of Multijet diesel engines in varying capacities, ranging from 1.3 liters to 1.9 Liters, the Viaggio might get this engine if it is sold in other markets like Europe, where demand for diesel engines is typically high.

We think the car should be brought to India, so that it adds to its portfolio of sedans, however, the launch of Viaagio in India could also cannibalize its Linea market in India. What do you think about it ?

Read More

Ford India floods us with the Images and details of Upcoming EcoSport

Ford's production version of EcoSport is ready and the car maker will unveil the complete SUV at the upcoming Beijing Automotive show. The sources close to the company said that the car will have a 1.0L Petrol engine which is a new refined engine, first to be installed in EcoSport. This engine, as per sources will be equivalent to Ford's 1.6L petrol engine. The Diesel engine will be a 1.5L engine which is currently fitted in Fiesta.

The EcoSport interiors is a sumptuous combination of dark black, light grey and aerosol silver. The interiors are almost similar to the exisiting Ford's Fiesta. On safety side, the top variant gets front airbags and side curtain airbags as options. The equipment list also includes antilock brakes, electronic stability control, assistance in starting ramp and parking sensors.

We especially loved the chrome gear knob, steering mounted control, a small screen in the center console and leather seats. The butterfly shaped center console is lifted form the Fiesta but the side aircon vents are designed differently. Ford claims that the EcoSport has room for five passengers and their luggage.

The car will be priced in the range of INR 7-10Lac with the top diesel variant in double digits.

Click here for complete Images of EcoSport. Stay tuned for more Information on Ford's EcoSport. 

Read More

Suzuki Motorcycle signs Salman Khan for Hayate launch

Toeing the line of larger rivals Hero MotoCorp and Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Limited (HMSI), Japanese two-wheeler maker Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL) is set to initiate a massive brand awareness campaign to up sales in the world’s second largest motorcycle market.

The company has signed actor Salman Khan as brand ambassador to increase the visibility in the country. Khan’s association with SMIPL will begin with the endorsement of Hayate 110 cc with which Suzuki is looking at foraying into the seven million-strong mass commuter segment in India.

The Hayate is scheduled for launch later next month and will take on best-sellers such as Hero Splendor, Bajaj Discover and TVS Star City. Suzuki currently has limited presence in the motorcycle industry in India with GS150R and (150 cc) and Slingshot (125 cc). It has a market share of less than one per cent.
Atul Gupta, vice-president (sales & marketing), SMIPL said, “While the motorcycle market in India is growing, brand loyalties remain strong. We needed to break into the clutter by differentiating our products and marketing strategy. We decided to sign on Salman Khan as he is a strong fit with the value-packed products we have scheduled for launch in the India market.”

Suzuki is latest among two-wheeler companies to embark on a brand repositioning drive to consolidate its position in the intensely competitive motorcycle market in the country. Earlier last year the Munjals’ promoted Hero Group had spent close to Rs 175 crore on an image makeover exercise post the termination of its joint venture with Honda Motor Corporation,. Rival HMSI is now understood to have firmed up a Rs 100 crore-project to establish its individual identity in the hinterland, which accounts for over 45 per cent of sales for its erstwhile partner Hero MotoCorp.

HMSI is in the process of finalising its first brand ambassador in the country. While Hrithik Roshan endorses Hero’s premium motorcycle Karizma, Mahindra Two Wheelers had roped in Aamir Khan. John Abraham campaigns for Yamaha.

Read More

With Maruti Ertiga selling like Hot Cake, MSIL needs to fasten launch of Xa-Alpha SUV

Maruti Suzuki, the undisputed market leader for Passenger Car market in India, is gearing up to place its strong foot in the Indian Utility Vehicle market. Currently dominated by Mahindra & Mahindra, India's largest UV maker.

Maruti Suzuki has recently launched its LUV, Ertiga, which is reported to have placed 11,000 bookings in just 5 days of launch. Ertiga, is surely going to be a hit for Toyota's Innova. The car maker has seen the response of Ertiga and now needs to fasten the process of launch of Xa-Alpha, though this process might take another 2-3 years for a formal launch,  but Maruti should seriously consider to enter the UV segment in India, to regain the lost market share and be the undisputed market leader in India.

What are your thoughts on this one !!

Read More

Audi buys Ducati for $ 1.1 Billion - Images

The car giant from Germany, Audi has recently bought the Italy based motorcycle maker Ducati for 1.1 billion USD or 860 million Euros. With this move, the Volkswagen Group hopes to broaden its horizons in the auto world. The VW group already has a flourishing portfolio of brands spanning across cars, marine engines and trucks; with the acquisition of Ducati, the brand has entered the high performance motorcycle category. Does this acquisition have to do anything with the love of Volkswagen Head Ferdinand Piech for Ducati bikes? We never know! A few years back, the VW group lost an opportunity of acquiring Ducati when it was put out for auction but this time the remorseful head of the company seems to have jumped on the opportunity without any delay.

Click here for more Images of Audi+Ducati.

Read More

New TVS Apache Teasers out !!!

Way back in Nov 2011, Autocar India had reported that TVS was about to launch an upgraded Apache RTR 180 sometime early this year. Looks like TVS is all set to launch the upgraded 2012 Apache. Going by what AutocarIndia had reported, it will probably be an upgraded Apache RTR 180 with some visual changes.

TVS has been making steady progress but its flagship motorcycle, the Apache, simply lacks that certain something that tugs at the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts and this has been a reason why the motorcycle, though a very well engineered product hasn’t seen the success it should have. Also, the design of the Apache, focused on the track, isn’t anything to write home about when compared to the likes of the all new Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS and the Yamaha R15 Version 2.0. So, the Apache desperately needs a total makeover to be transformed into a more attractive proposition.

Stay tuned for more Information on TVS Apache.

Read More

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga registers 10,000 bookings in just 5 days

Its yet another boost for the Indian car maker, Maruti Suzuki, which has recently floated news that it will withdraw Maruti 800 due to which the concern was the market share could further go down. But no worries now, the car maker has launched another beast, another record maker, yet another car but this time, its LUV, Life Utility Vehicle, Ertiga. The car maker has recorded 10,000 bookings in a five days of its launch.

The Ertiga is a major step forward for Maruti. Many urban families are now looking for a vehicle that offers more space and flexibility than a sedan, without being bulky, bland and expensive like a utility vehicle. The Ertiga is designed for these customers," Maruti managing director and chief executive S Nakanishi said.

Click here for more details on Ertiga.  

Read More

Maruti Suzuki to discontinue 800 from April end, new model to come out in year end

Maruti Suzuki India has finally realized its the end of 800 era and the model should now phase out. Maruti Suzuki today announced that the car maker will discontinue the existing Maruti 800 model from April end.

The car maker is thus in works on making a makeover of the exisiting car and the company claims it will be complete changer of the market. There have been various images which we too previewed to you at various intervals, the anticipated Maruti Suzuki Cervo might be the next product for the Indian market. This all-new 800 will be priced between Rs 2.5-3.5 lakh range. The key USPs will be fuel efficiency and low maintenance.

The currently under codenamed is YE3 and will be a sporty tall boy design. Click here to view more Images on Cervo.

Read More

Exclusive : Ajay devgan and Anil Kapoor to race at Buddh International Circuit, F1 track in their Lamborghini on May 23 2012

Anil Kapoor and Ajay Devgan will burn some serious rubber on F1 track at Buddh International Circuit on 23rd May 2012. The two are reported to drive in their respective Lamborghini's on the scheduled date, as both of them are Sports Car fans.

The conversation started off like this, they were having dinner, and suddenly the topic shifted on to the cars, and the talk suddenly moved onto the boys talk. They started talking about their fleet of Cars and suddenly when Ajay Devgan proposed for a Race to come to a conclusion who is the best among the two. Anil Kapoor was a little shocked and did not expected the discussion to go onto this level, but ofcourse he was left with no other option than to accept the race challenge, ofcourse afterall it was the only measure left to end the boys talk with a clearly defined winner.

Ajay Devgan is supposed to be driving his Yellow Lamborghini whereas Anil Kapoor will be in his Silver one. Stay tuned for more Updates on the race day from Buddh Interntional Circuit.

Read More

Petrol pumps strike on next Monday, April 23 2012

Over 40,000 petrol pumps across the country will shut their outlets on next Monday to press their demand for raising their commission on petrol by about 27 paise per litre and diesel by 14 paise per litre as recommended by an official panel.

The association wants the government to implement the report of an official committee that recommended higher commissions and levy of user charges on services like filling up air and providing drinking water and toilets. Earlier, they were demanding a 5% commission. ET first reported it on Thursday.

The government has fixed delears' commission at 1.49/litre commission on petrol and 0.91 paise/litre on diesel.

"If government accepts our demand to implement the Apurva Chandra committee report and frame guidelines to open new pumps, we will call off our token strike of April 23, else we will even go for an indefinite closure from April 30," said Federation of All India Petrol Traders secretary general Ajay Bansal.

Besides, raising their commission, dealers oppose state oil firms' plan to open 12,000 new pumps in the same market that would reduce their sale and squeeze margins.

While the government is considering the committee's report, it is not sympathetic to their demand to stop opening new pumps, oil ministry officials said.

The ministry is considering implementing selective recommendations of the committee report, as it is apprehensive that allowing pumps to levy user charges would invite public rage, officials said.

Bansal said: "We want the government to implement its own committee's report in toto. It is surprising that the government is not willing to implement the report that was prepared by marketing directors of the three oil PSUs under chairmanship of the then joint secretary, Apurva Chandra."

Ministry officials said that imposing user charges could invite political oppositions during the Budget session of Parliament. The report proposes 2 user charge for filling air in a two-wheeler, 5 in a car and 20 in a truck or a bus. It also allows dealers to charge 2 from customers for using toilets and some nominal charges for drinking water.

"The dealership network is already reeling under the burden of 1% evaporation of petroleum products and 55% increase in minimum wages by state governments. Then, while increasing the price of petroleum products, government has not once increased the dealers' commission," Bansal said.

Petrol prices have been raised by 22/litre and diesel by 9/litre in the last two years without any substantial increase in delears' margin, he said.

Read More

Fiat's new Sedan, Viaggio to be previewed at Beijing International Auto Show on 23 April 2012- Teaser images out

Fiat presents the first official snap-shots of the Viaggio, a totally new model which will have its world preview at the Beijing International Auto Show on Monday 23 April this year.

Viaggio (voyage in English and its Chinese name Fei Xiang meaning flying) is the first Fiat-Chrysler twin project which brings to life an all-new world class vehicle with high levels of refinement and craftsmanship that breaks the mould in China’s compact sedan segment.

The new Fiat Viaggio sedan delivers a unique blend of power, fuel efficiency, sophistication, technology
and vehicle dynamics, beautifully clothed in a distinctive Italian design.

The new four-door, five- passenger Fiat Viaggio is based on the CUSW (Compact US Wide) architecture - the most advanced within the Fiat Group – which is also the basis of the new Dodge Dart, recently presented at the Detroit Motor Show last January. The CUSW architecture is, in turn, derived from the Compact architecture originally developed for best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

At 4,679mm in length, 1,850mm in overall width and with a 2,708mm wheelbase, the Viaggio is the new C-segment benchmark. With this car, Fiat brings the very best of its technological know-how, design and refinement to the biggest selling segment in China.

The Fiat Viaggio will be the only car in its segment to exclusively offer sophisticated turbo-charged engines; the 1.4L Tjet in both 120 hp and 150 hp outputs matched to either a 5-speed manual transmission or the latest Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT) developed by Fiat Powertrain.

Designed by the Fiat Group Style Centre in Torino, the Viaggio has a timeless, clean-surfaced expressive exterior design that blends fluid and curvaceous forms with strong proportions. A contemporary Fiat “face” ensures unmistakable brand identity. Rear tail lamps with refined LED lights deliver an image of superior quality.

The new Fiat sedan will be the first car to be produced in the new Gac-Fiat World Class Manufacturing plant in Changsha, Hunan province. The first cars will be produced from July and will go on sale in the third quarter of this year.

Also at the forthcoming Beijing International Auto Show, GAC-Fiat, Jeep, Chrysler, Maserati and Ferrari will jointly have a strong presence in Luxury Hall E4. The Luxury Hall E4 of the China International Exhibition Centre aims to offer Chinese customers the synthesis of the present and future view of the Fiat-Chrysler Group and its willingness to become a key player in the significant Chinese market.

Read More

Hyundai ups production of diesel variants of Verna, i20 by 50%

The country's second largest car maker Hyundai Motor India today said it has ramped up the production capacity of diesel variants of its sedan Verna and compact car i20 by up to 50 per cent from this month.

"The supply of both the diesel cars taken together will go up almost 50 per cent from the existing 7,000 units per month to 10,500 units per month," Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) said in a statement.

The company has increased sourcing of diesel engines from South Korea following increased demand of such cars in India due to a big difference in retail prices of petrol and diesel.

Commenting on the development, HMIL Director (Marketing and Sales) Arvind Saxena said: "Increased supply will ease the waiting period substantially. We expect the waiting period for the diesel Verna to drop from 6 months to 2-3 months and for the new iGen i20 to about a month."

Last year, HMIL had put on hold its Rs 400-crore diesel engine plant.

The plant was envisaged to have an annual capacity of 1.5 lakh units for three types of engines -- 1.1 litre, 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre for the domestic market.

With the Budget for 2012-13 leaving the tax structure of diesel-driven vehicles unchanged, the company had recently said that it was evaluating the situation and would take a decision soon.

In 2011, HMIL's domestic sales increased to 3,73,709 units, registering a growth of 4.76 per cent from 3,56,717 units in the previous year.

Read More

New Maruti Suzuki Swift Alpha edition launched in India - prices remain the same

Maruti Suzuki has launched the new Swift Alpha variant with additional features at no extra cost. The car maker has started looking Volkswagen as a big competitor and has now applied the similar strategy which was applied by VW in its Polo & Vento as IPL edition. The additional features in the car includes:

• Interior Style Kit
• Music System with Bluetooth
• Speakers
• Seat Cover
• Designer Mat
• Comfi Range accessories
• Door Visor
• Door Sill Guard
• Mud Flap
• Rear spoiler

However, the alpha variant is available only on Petrol and not on Diesel. This might also be the strategy of the car maker to improve upon the Sales of Petrol variant as since the launch of new swift, the car maker is reported to be selling 80% of the Diesel variant and 20% of the Petrol.

Read More

Student killed in a Car Accident, Toyota Corolla near Hauz Khas, New Delhi

An accident claimed the life of a 23-year-old student and left his friend injured, when the Toyota Corolla Altis car they were travelling in rammed into a road-divider and overturned near the Hauz Khas Metro station early this morning.

Ramneet Singh (23), a business management student, was killed in the accident. The police had rushed him and his friend, Neha to the AIIMS Trauma Centre, but the doctors declared Ramneet brought dead on arrival. The girl was soon discharged.

According to the police, Ramneet was driving the car and his friend was sitting next to him. They were returning to their residences after attending a wedding at Gurgaon.

A police officer said, "The accident occurred at 4.40 am. The car was being driven at a high speed and it rammed into a road-divider opposite the Laxman Public School. The accident site is near the Hauz Khas Metro station."

Sources claimed that immediately after the accident, Neha telephoned her mother who informed Ramneet's parents. They thereafter reported the matter to the police.

When the police reached the site of the accident, it saw Ramneet was lying unconscious on the seat. His head had burst open. The car was stained with blood marks and there were pieces of flesh near the door.

Ramneet and Neha were taken to the AIIMS Trauma Centre. He died when he was brought to the hospital. A case was registered under IPC section 279 (rash driving or riding on a public way) and section 304A (causing death by negligence).

His body was handed over to his family after the postmortem at the same hospital. It was cremated at the Green Park cremation ground.

He lived with his parents and elder brother at Hauz Khas Apartments. His father, Surender Pal Singh operated a hardware store at Yusuf Sarai. A maid employed in their house said, "Ramneet returned from Australia two years ago. He was studying there, but his mother called him back to India when he fell ill a number of times. She also became worried when there were news reports about the locals attacking Indians," the maid alleged.

According to her, Ramneet returned to Delhi two days ago after being on vacation in Singapore. He went there with a friend.

"After he came back, he told his mother that he would be staying with a friend named Sandeep, because the air-conditioning in the house was not functioning properly. Yesterday, he came back home at 4 pm and went for a wedding at 8 pm," she said.

Read More

Maruti Ertiga gets 400 bookings on launch day from Maharashtra

The country's largest car-maker Maruti Suzuki said its first global compact multi-purpose vehicle Ertiga has received around 400 bookings from Maharashtra on the first day of the launch.

"Even before the launch of the Ertiga here, we have had 400 bookings from Maharashtra," Maruti Suzuki commercial business head for western region, S N Burman, told reporters here last evening.

Besides, the company has received large number of enquiries about the Ertiga, priced at Rs 6.23-8.88 lakh.

"The Ertiga is a major step forward for Maruti. Many urban families are now looking for a vehicle that offers more space and flexibility than a sedan, without being bulky, bland and expensive like a utility vehicle. The Ertiga is designed for these customers," Maruti managing director and chief executive S Nakanishi said.

The company plans to take the Ertiga to other Southeast Asian markets too.

Read More

Have you seen the New Hyundai i20 TV Commercial - Video

Hyundai has revealed the news of launching its new facelifted i20. The carmaker has also revealed the images too, but for no apparent reason the car maker is making no noise about the launch of the car.

Meanwhile, the car maker just launched the new TVC, further reinstating the faith of the consumers. Click on the Video below to watch the new TVC.

Read More

New 2013 Fiat Linea - Clear pictures revealed

The new Fiat Linea as also showcased by us the spy shots was expected to be launched early next year. However, sources close to the company have revealed that the company is gearing up hard to launch the car in the market during the festive season. However, no confirmation for the same has been received till date.

The 2013 Fiat Linea now gets new front, new head lights, new front fender, new alloy wheels, new tail lights, new rear bumper and a new boot lid. The interiors will also be spiced up with slight changes, while the engines will receive more power along with the addition of the 1.4-liter MultiAir engine to the range. The 1.4-liter MultiAir motor produces 168 BHP of power, while the non-MultiAir version produces 153 BHP of power. The facelifted Linea will go on sale by the end of 2012, but don’t expect Fiat to launch this in India anytime soon.

Stay tuned for more Information on Fiat Linea.

Read More

Maruti launches Ertiga at Rs 5.89 lakh, ex showroom price New Delhi

Maruti Suzuki India has launched the first modern MPV, the Ertiga today with a fantastic price tag that starts at just Rs 5.89 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. The Ertiga is what Maruti is calling a 5+2 seat MPV. Positioned as the Lifestyle Urban Vehicle, the Ertiga is designed to create a new segment, just below the likes of the Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova. Other manufacturers are watching the Ertiga very closely and will launch similar offerings in the coming years.

PETROL VARIANTS
Maruti Ertiga Lxi – 5.89Lac
Maruti Ertiga Vxi – 6.60Lac
Maruti Ertiga Zxi – 7.30Lac

DIESEL VARIANTS
Maruti Ertiga Ldi – 7.30Lac
Maruti Ertiga Vdi – 7.90Lac
Maruti Ertiga Zdi – 8.45Lac

The Ertiga is offered with two powerplants, a brand new K14 B, in-line four petrol with 94 bhp@6000 rpm and the Multijet diesel with 88.8 bhp@4000 rpm. The K14 B features VVT or variable valve timing, while the Multijet diesel is offered with a variable geometry turbo.

The petrol Ertiga is designed to deliver 16.02 kpl (ARAI), while the diesel Ertiga has a figure of 20.77 kpl.

Click here to view more Images on our facebook Page. Do not forget to Click Like on our Page to get more Updates on Automobiles.

Read More

Mercedes runs over Delhi cops, 1 killed

A Delhi policeman was killed and another injured after a Mercedes, allegedly been driven at high speed, ran them over at Paschim Vihar in New Delhi at around 2 am.

The two constables, Deepak Singh Chauhan (41) and Amit Kumar (24) were on night patrolling on a motorcycle when they were knocked from behind. Chauhan, father of two, succumbed to injuries by the time help arrived.

Kumar suffered injuries in his leg. He is reported to be critical.

The accused, reportedly a businessman named Gurdeep Singh and a resident of Greater Kailash-1, had fled from the accident site, but was arrested later.

During interrogation, Gurdeep, has reportedly said he fell assleep while he was driving and didn't notice the cops in front of him.

Meanwhile, a case of rash driving has been registered against Gurdeep

Read More

India's Domestic Car sales up 20%, bikes 1% in March 2012, grows for full year too

Domestic passenger car sales rose by 19.66 percent to 2,29,866 units in March 2012, from 1,92,105 units in the same month last year.

Figures released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) today also show that motorcycle sales in the country grew by 1.15 percent during the month to 8,50,619 units from 8,40,944 units in the same month last year.

Total two-wheeler sales in March increased by 8.27 percent to 11,83,407 units from 10,93,004 units in the same month last year.

Sales of commercial vehicles climbed by 14.82 percent to 90,415 units from 78,745 units in the year-ago period, SIAM said.

Total sales of vehicles across categories registered 10.11 percent growth to 16,08,216 units in March 2012, from 14,60,498 units in the same month last year, it added.

Read More

Ever imagined why the wheels are round, Mythbusters tried Square wheels - Here's Video for Square wheels

Have you ever tried a vehicle with Square wheels, have you ever thought why the wheels are round. We are sure you must be thinking Wheels means Round, isn't ?

Mythbusters on Discovery tried a Ford pick up with Square wheels and wonder what happened. Click on the Videos below to watch the entire thing.

Read More

Maruti Suzuki 800 replacement to hit market around November 2012 - is it Cervo

Maruti Suzuki India has finally realized its the end of 800 era and the model should now phase out. The car maker is thus in works on making a makeover of the exisiting car and the company claims it will be complete changer of the market. There have been various images which we too previewed to you at various intervals, the anticipated Maruti Suzuki Cervo might be the next product for the Indian market. This all-new 800 will be priced between Rs 2.5-3.5 lakh range. The key USPs will be fuel efficiency and low maintenance.

The currently under codenamed is YE3 and will be a sporty tall boy design. Click here to view more Images on Cervo.

Read More

Is this the new Mahindra Verito Compact sedan - Images

Long time when we did not hear anything from Mahindra on their plans to launch sedan as planned for Verito. Since Maruti Suzuki has already taken the first place by launching a Compact Dzire, which is also seeing pretty good response from the buyers.

The next in place would be Mahindra Verito, which will be powered by the same 1.5L, 65 bhp - 160 Nm, K9K engine from Renault however the size of the car will shrink down to little less than 4 metres and thus will avail the excise duty benefits from the Indian government.

We expect the car to be launched some where in early 2013.

Read More

Harley Davidson to open a Dealership in Goa

The American motorbike manufacturer has chosen Goa as the next stop to be in, and this is where the bike maker expects can make money out of by opening a showroom here.The showroom will be seen opening at Panjim, the capital of Goa. The manufacturer will sell the entire Indian line up of Harley Davidson bikes through the upcoming Goa dealership.

Harley currently sells 15 models in India ranging from Rs. 5.6 lakhs to Rs. 35.45 lakhs. Click here to view our  more stories on Harley Davidson.

Read More

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV teaser Video out, to be launched on 12 April 2012

Maruti Suzuki calls its MPV as its LUV - Life Utility Vehicle. The car will officially be launched on 12 April, but the teaser Video has been unveiled. Click on the Video below to have a look.



Click here to view more stories on Maruti Ertiga.

Read More

Mahindra Thar re-launched with AC and Engine Immobilizer at INR 6.86 Lac

Mahindra have launched the Thar CRDe with the option of a company fitted AC and heater. The company has also addressed the security concerns of most of its buyers by introducing an engine immobilizer on the vehicle. The hardcore mud-plugger hasn't received a hard-top, as anticipated though and the vehicle will continue to be sold with a removable rag top. The A/C option has been introduced only in the CRde version for now, with the DI variant continuing to be sold without the feature. M&M have priced the new Thar at Rs 686800 ex-showroom Delhi.

The Thar CRDe features a 105 Bhp-247 Nm, 2.5 liter common rail turbo diesel engine. This engine is mated to a five speed manual transmission, with the 4X4 system activated through the Borg Warner manual transfer case. The fit and finish on the Thar has been a big cause of concern for both current owners and prospective owners, considering that the CRDe engined version costs more than many B+ hatchbacks. This is something that prospective owners will hope Mahindra will consider soon.

Read More

Toyota India appoints Virat Kohli as brand ambassador

Leading auto major Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) on Thursday signed up India batsman Virat Kohli as its brand ambassador to endorse its range of passenger car models.

"Kohli brings with him all the emotions that Toyota aims to offer its customers through its range of vehicles," TKM deputy managing director Sandeep Singh told reporters here on the occasion.

Raring to endorse the brand, Kohli said he was excited to be a part of Toyota's drive to connect with the youth.

"Toyota inspires the spirit of success and that is an emotion that is close to my heart," Kohli told reporters here.

Kohli is the first brand ambassador of the TKM joint venture, which has been present in the Indian automobile market over a decade.

The Delhi-born Kohli is a star batsman of the Indian team in all the three formats of the game - Tests, One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20.

He is also an integral part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team in the Indian Premier League (IPL-5) T-20 tournament.

“Kohli personifies the younger generation. Behind his youthfulness is immense potential, talent and self belief, all of which Toyota stands for,” Singh pointed out.

Read More

BMW Mini launched in India at Rs 25.5 Lac with Infinity Cars being first dealer for India in Mumbai

Iconic British brand Mini, which was unveiled at the Auto Expo in January, will hit the Indian roads by May.The popular small car from BMW was initially set to be priced at Rs 24 lakh. However, due to a change in duty structure post Budget (the excise duty for cars above 1,500 cc has gone up to 27% from the earlier 25%), Mini will now be launched at a starting price of Rs 25.5 Lac.

Infinity Cars is the first showroom which was inaugurated in Mumbai on Thursday and two in Delhi are in the pipeline. BMW plans to open 5-6 exclusive Mini showrooms in the country this year including in places such as Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Pune.Meanwhile, here’s the list of prices of the Mini range of hatchbacks, in Mumbai, all prices being ex-showroom.

Mini Cooper: INR 25.5 Lac
Mini Cooper S: INR 28.6 Lac
Mini Convertible: INR 30.7 Lac
Mini Countryman: INR 32.8 Lac

India is the 100th country where Mini is being launched. The completely built unit is being imported from the UK. “We will start delivery by May,” said Schaaf. “We have already got 100 bookings. We plan to deliver 20-30 cars a month.” Mini has sold two million units worldwide ever since its launch.

Read More

March 2012 Indian OEM Sales comparison with March 2011 - Images & graph

March 2012 has been the best month for the Indian OEM's. The car makers have posted the highest ever Sales. We hope the similar trend continues and the automobile Industry grows in line with the targets set and becomes third largest auto industry in 2020.

Click on the Image below to get an enlarged view of the image.

Read More