Designer Tata Nano From Dilip Chhabria

The world's cheapest car is all set to have a revamped look. Designers of world class repute have taken keen interest in the car and the Tata Nano will get a facelift from the combined efforts of Dilip Chhabria and Maruti Suzuki India chief, Jagdish Khattar.

Dilip Chhabria, the promoter of Dilip Chhabria design said "We have retained the original look but have made it more stylish. One can spend a premium of Rs 80,000 to get the new look." He added "We plan to sell at least a couple of hundred, designer Nanos."

Dilip Chhabria's DC Design and Jagdish Khattar's Carnation Auto entered into a partnership in September this year, to provide car customization kits at 11 carnation outlets across India. Carnation is into selling used cars and multi brand accessories in addition to offering services.

Talking about the revamped car, Dilip Chhabria said "We call it Hot Nano." He added "we will finalize a brand name for the redesigned vehicle. We have a wait list as a lot of people want their Nanos redesigned," said Chhabria, refusing to divulge more details about the design changes. When asked about any changes in the interiors he said "We have not planned many changes in the interiors."

The ace designer is looking at scaling up operations. He said "Hence, the tie-up with Carnation Auto". He has designed over 2,000 cars, including Limousines and sports cars in the past 16 years. His clientele include Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Geet Sethi among others.

Dilip Chhabria is contemplating a foray into healthcare sector by designing ambulances. Talking about his plans he said "Around 100 ambulances would be designed, to enhance comfort levels of patients. Apollo group has already shown interest in buying a few".

Although his company designs 60-80 cars in a year, Dilip Chhabria is scaling up the number to about 200-300, in the wake of increasing demand for customized cars as lifestyle products.

By: Amrith K.A.

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Volkswagen Beetle to be Launched Soon in India

Volkswagen is all set to roll out the Volkswagen Beetle on the Indian roads, in the beginning of December this year. As per information provided by a senior company official, Volkswagen Beetle was meant to be a People's car, but its very high prices fail to live up to that. Volkswagen would import the Beetle as 'Completely Built Unit (CBU)' with a 110 per cent import duty from its Mexican plant, for sale in Indian markets.

Volkswagen is Europe's largest carmaker which already sells the Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Passat sedans and the Touareg SUV in India. The Volkswagen owns Skoda and Porsche vehicles which have already done good sales in India. The group has two facilities in India at Aurangabad and Chakan which assemble cars of its three brands, Skoda, Audi and Volkswagen.

Talking about the proposed launch, a couple of months back, Volkswagen India (Passenger car) Board of Directors, Member Neeraj Garg told reporters "It is an iconic brand and people know more about the car than Volkswagen. It will be brought to India as a completely built unit." At that time, he failed to put any time line for the launch of Beetle, but indicated that it is certainly considering using the 'Beetle' as a brand building strategy for Volkswagen, in order to get into the competitive Indian compact segment.

The Volkswagen Beetle is amongst the most successful models ever produced by the German carmaker. According to the critics, the car is a complete failure due to its peculiar styling, underpowered motor, rough ride and noisy engine. Despite these claims, the car has bucked all trends and made history.

The company as a whole is also expanding in India, by increasing its target. The group earlier announced a target of 8-10 per cent share of the Indian passenger car market in the next 6 years. In the meanwhile, the new Volkswagen Polo is expected to hit the market early next year, with a more affordable price.

By: Amrith K.A.

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TVS Flame Re-Launched With Twin Spark Plug

TVS re-launched the much awaited Twin Spark Plug "FLAME" bike after obtaining all necessary permissions and clearances in accordance with law.

This executive segment motorcycle, launched under the brand TVS Flame DS 125, is propelled by three valve CC-VTi technology, fired by twin spark plugs. Developed with AVL Austria, this 125 cc three valve engine is tuned to the ideal swirl-tumble port combination so that it delivers superior performance while simultaneously enhancing low, mid range power and delivering high fuel efficiency.

The additional power and mileage is achieved by two separate intake ports namely swirl and tumble ports. The swirl port creates swirl motion of air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This swirl motion helps in efficient combustion of lean air-fuel mixture, thus giving maximum fuel economy in its class. The tumble port provides the high flow rate, which aids delivery of high power.

TVS Flame DS 125 is the only motorcycle in the country to have a unique combination of three valves and two spark plugs.

Packing in 10.5 bhp @ 7500 rpm, TVS Flame DS 125 has a top speed of 95 kmph. Futuristic styling and technology deployed in this motorcycle gives it best-in-class appeal.

The motorcycle's styling includes trendy headlight with two position lamps and embedded turn signal indicators which give the bike a sporty finish. The 240 mm front disc brake is complemented with a chic triangular exhaust that is not only unique but also enhances performance and delivers a pleasing sound with low emissions. The rear end of the bike sports a dual lens tail lamp. The bike is provided with electric start.

Priced at Rs. 49,200 ex-showroom, the TVS Flame DS 125 comes in dual tone colours of red and black.

Source: TVS Motor Company

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New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Diesel Variant Launched in India

Mercedes-Benz India announced the launch of BlueEFFICIENCY technology for India with launch of the New E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. Powered by the diesel variant, the new Mercedes E-Class is now available in India in the top-of-line avantgarde styling line powered by a three-litre OM642 V6 diesel engine that churns out a whopping 540 Nm of torque at 1600-2400 rpm.

BlueEFFICIENCY is a package of fuel saving technologies where innovative changes have been made throughout the design and engineering of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. These are integrated measures that reduce fuel consumption & emissions in the New E-Class by using a complete package of efficiency-enhancing technologies.

"World over, Mercedes-Benz offers a strong & varied portfolio of efficient technologies for sustainable solutions to match individual mobility related needs. The launch of the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY will set new standards in the premium automobiles segment in the country. With Blue efficiency, the brand offers a complete package of fuel efficient qualities combined with the characteristic brand features - safety, comfort and refined driving pleasure. The result is the New E-Class with all round safety, outstanding comfort and fuel savings of upto 13%. The E 350CDI BE will delight customers with its class-leading performance, safety, comfort and environmental compatibility." Said: Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.

Powered by a robust OM642 V6 diesel engine with turbochargers, the New Mercedes E-Class is impressive in its performance. This six-cylinder engine built with a direct-injection unit delivering a torque of 540 Nm, consuming up to 13% less fuel than before, creating new benchmarks in the segment. The New E-Class also has the distinction of being the world's most aerodynamically efficient luxury saloon.

The New Mercedes E-Class showcases the dynamic and passionate genes of the Mercedes-Benz brand, clearly evident from the very first glimpse highlighted most noticeably by the re-designed twin headlamp. Other distinct features include – an arrow shaped bonnet featuring three louvers and chrome surround, sporty rear bumper adding to a sense of width & attractively styled 17” light alloy wheels accentuating the muscular appeal of the new E-Class. Great looks, appealing functionality and great features- the New E-Class has it all.

Additionally, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class also offers as standard - PRE-SAFE, NECK-PRO, PARKTRONICS with the new Advanced Parking Guidance which helps the driver to search for suitable parking space extending visual and audible steering support during parking. All these innovative feature sets new benchmarks in passenger safety with the New E-Class.

Source: Mercedes-Benz India

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Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI Special Edition Car Now in India

Ford India raises the competitive bar on luxury and style with the introduction of the special edition Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI bolstered with leather upholstery.

The special edition Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI with leather comes replete with premium styling and features including plush leather seats, medium stone interiors, a premium cubic finish on the fascia, gear shift and parking brake and metallic accents on trim.

In addition the Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI Leather also has ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), as standard making it a real value. The special edition new Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI will be available only on the petrol variant.

Nigel Wark, executive director, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford India said, "The Ford Fiesta continues to be one of our bestselling products and registered impressive sales during the festive season. We are building on the success and offering customers with a special edition of the 1.6 ZXI Duratec variant. The stylized features and plush leather interiors with additional safety features make it even more appealing and prove to be great-value premium sedan."

Starting today the limited edition Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI with leather will be available at Ford dealerships across India at an aggressive price of Rs.6,44,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

The Ford Fiesta is a car known for its superior drivability and handling and continues to receive rave reviews from the auto experts and analysts. The Ford Fiesta was rated as the Best Driver's car in its class by Autocar in 2008, it was ranked No 1 by AutoBild in its ultimate handling test in 2009. The awards and the accolades showcase the fact that Ford Fiesta delivers style, together with outstanding quality and performance that consumers desire.

The Ford Fiesta comes with a 2 year/ 1,00,000 kilometers warranty with an optional 'Extended Warranty' that covers the car against all electrical and mechanical failures for an additional period. Along with the new Scheduled Service Plan (SSP), first in the country Roadside Assistance (RSA) and other Ford Service initiatives, add on to make owning a Ford Fiesta a delightful experience.

Source: Ford India

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TVS to Launch India's First Auto Clutch Bike

TVS has been working on an automatic clutch bike for the last 18 months and is planning to launch it within a few months. The clutch free concept ensures that the rider is free from applying clutch whilst shifting gears and the company has assured that there would not be any impact on the performance of the bike like pick up and top speed.

TVS has not divulged details about the bike but the bike is likely to be placed in the executive segment which is presently dominated by Hero Honda. The positioning of the bike based on the price is yet to be seen in addition to the mileage it is capable of. The executive segment accounts for Lions Share of the sales and on average, monthly sales in this segment are around 350,000. Bikes in this segment fall in the Rs 41,000-45,000 (ex-showroom) price bands.

Talking about the news doing the rounds, an auto expert said "Gearless scooters have emerged the best mode of transport for women over the years and some of them may well opt for a motorcycle which assures equally comfortable riding."

This bike is set to enthrall women riders and those that have a keen interest in motorcycles but have been on the look out for the most appropriate product. The bike is slated to bring with it, a new technology in the biking world and the assessment of its performance would be an interesting aspect for the technically sound.

TVS Motor is gearing up for the launch of this new scooter which would be more powerful than the existing 80cc TVS Scooty and it is expected to be launched in the coming months.

By: Amrith K.A.

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Honda Launches New Variant of Honda CR-V in India

Honda Siel Cars India Ltd (HSCI), leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, launched a new version of its popular sports utility vehicle - Honda CR-V. The new Honda CR-V offers its customers a distinctive combination of refined styling and high quality.

The new Honda CR-V comes with a refreshed look, sporting a new two-step front grille, a re-sculpted hood & front bumper design and oval shape fog lamps redefining the individuality of the vehicle. The new rear bumper further accentuates the stability of the car. The new Honda CR-V is 45 mm longer than its predecessor and measures 4575 mm in length while maintaining the same width, height, ground clearance and head clearance. A new 10-spoke alloy wheel design replaces the previous 7-spoke alloy wheel design. The new wheel design gives the car a more aggressive stance and enhances its sporty looks.

The Honda CR-V will continue to be available in 2.0 L - MT 2WD and 2.4L MT /AT Real-time 4WD. The 2.4 L model now comes with a steering-mounted Cruise Control system with illuminated controls to ensure comfort and convenience for the customer with one-touch operation.

Interior improvements focus on new features and functionality. The occupants' safety has been further enhanced as the new Honda CR-V comes equipped with six airbags - Dual SRS Airbags, Side-Curtain airbags and Side Airbags with Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). The music system features a new USB port in the upper glove compartment in keeping with the latest trend of music storage. The overall interior colour scheme has been brightened and gives a more premium look with chrome finish in audio controls & gear knob and coordinated colour changes in the dashboard and centre console. The centrally located LCD meter display is now blue in colour with design changes in the indicators for improved decipherability. The vanity mirror is equipped with a light to assist visibility during darkness.

The new Honda CR-V will be available in two new colours - Opal Sage Metallic and Premium Mystic Night Pearl along with the existing range of Polished Metal, Alabaster Silver, Crystal Black Pearl and Premium White.

The new Honda CR-V comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24 - hr roadside assistance as standard value for all new CR-V buyers.

The Honda CR-V is sold as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) import and will be available on confirmed order basis for the customers.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Tatsuya Natsume, Director - Marketing, Honda Siel Cars India said "The Honda CR-V is a refined sports utility vehicle meant for customers who are looking for SUV capabilities along with car-like comfort. The new Honda CR-V further expands the value reflecting growing customer demand for quality and premium products in the SUV market."

The Honda CR-V was first introduced in India in July 2003. It went on to become the segment leader since its launch winning several awards for itself. The all new 3rd generation CR-V was introduced in India in November 2006 which offered its customers a distinctive combination of ‘the comfort of a sedan with the thrills of a SUV'. HSCI launched the 2.0L 2WD Honda CR-V in February 2008 which was a more agile vehicle with even sportier handling. The new lighter engine gives good fuel efficiency, without compromising on performance. Ever since its launch in 2003, nearly 12,500 units of the CR-Vs have been sold cumulatively in the country. The company has sold nearly 7,000 units of the 3rd generation model.

Honda CR-V was adjudged the ‘SUV of the Year' by NDTV Profit Car & Bike and Overdrive and also won the ‘Best Driver's Car' award by CNBC TV-18 Autocar Auto Awards in 2007.

The prices of New Honda CR-V (ex showroom Delhi) is:
2.0L MT - Rs. 21,92,000
2.4L MT - Rs. 23,37,000
2.4L AT - Rs. 24,12,000

Courtesy: Honda Siel Cars India Ltd.

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New Honda Aviator Scooter Launched with 110cc Engine

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI), the 100% owned 2-wheeler subsidiary of the Honda Motor Company, Japan - the world's largest manufacturer of 2-wheelers, unveiled the New Honda Aviator in New Delhi. With the tagline 'Live Your Style', the New Honda Aviator is bound to make the mature Indian males truly 'live their style'. It comes with a host of new features which enhance the style and premium element. It is an ideal vehicle for males who seek a premium-class product and have a flair for style.

Honda Aviator is HMSI's most popular automatic scooter among the males. The introduction of New Honda Aviator is a step ahead in the company's commitment to expand the scooter market in India. With various new features, the New Aviator will boost the popularity and performance of the model.

Powered with an 110cc engine, the new model will deliver a power of 8 bhp. The new Aviator will give 15% more mileage thus making it even more economical than the previous model. This increased efficiency has been made possible because of various cutting-edge technologies.

The New Honda Aviator is mainly targeted at married males in the age-group of 30-40 years. Being a premium product, it is meant to attract buyers who are style-conscious and seek quality & comfort. It will make an impact on the two-wheeler market increasing the appeal for the premium automatic scooters.

New Honda Aviator features the Combi-brake which makes it comfortable. Also, it strongly addresses the environmental issue. Though all the Honda products adhere strictly to the emission standards, the New Aviator adheres to even the BS-III norms which will come into effect from April next year. Among the other attractive feature of the New Aviator includes the front Disc brake with 3 piston calipers and the alloy wheels (in Dlx Variant). Front telescopic suspension continues to aid in smooth riding.

The new scooter will be available in 5 stylish colours - Neo Orange Metallic (new), Pearl Heron Blue (new), Rebel Red Metallic, Pearl Black and Monsoon Gray Metallic.

The New Aviator will hit the roads by October-end. The scooter has been competitively priced.

New Honda Aviator Ex Showroom Price for Delhi:
Aviator Standard: Rs. 42,160
Aviator Deluxe: Rs. 47,160

Present at the new Honda Aviator launch event were: Mr Shinji Aoyama, CEO & President, HMSI; along with Mr N.K. Rattan, Operating Head – Sales & Marketing, HMSI.

HMSI is one of the youngest players and currently the fastest growing company in Indian 2w industry. The company grew at the rate of 18% in 2008-09 & sold 10.7 lakh units. It has set a target to achieve 12.5 lakh sales mark in this financial year 2009-10.

Salient features of New Aviator:
Grandeur Masculine Style ( New)
The styling of the New Honda Aviator makes it look sophisticated and luxurious. The deluxe variant has an elegant front-cover chrome, body-color grab, instrument panel garnish and inner cover painted in order to add to the style and premium appeal of the scooter. Along with these, the scooter also has alloy wheels and leaves a lasting impression with its attractive looks.

Economy with 110cc Honda Engine (New)
The New 110cc engine in the New Aviator delivers a power of 8 bhp. The proven Honda engine not only offers smooth performance but also consumes less fuel. It is 15% more economical than the earlier model.

Comfort:
Combi-Brake (New): In the conventional braking system, when the left brake lever is applied, only the rear brake gets activated. However, in case of Combi-brake system, front and rear brakes get activated jointly when the left lever is applied. This reduces the braking distance and is a very important comfort and safety feature for all types of riders.

Telescopic Front Suspension: The New Aviator boasts of a high quality telescopic front suspension to achieve smoother handling, lower vibration and more stable high-speed control.
Comfortable Sitting Posture: The New Aviator seat has been designed to provide a comfortable upright seating position.

Front Disc Brake with 3 piston calipers - The 190 mm disc brake at front ( Dlx Variant), provides responsive braking control resulting in assured swift stop.

Convenience:
Viscous air filter (New): It is more efficient in catching the dust particles which prolongs the filter life. Thus, it lessens the maintenance expense as it requires less frequent replacement and no cleaning.

Maintenance-Free battery (New): The newly adopted battery makes use of Honda global technology. It is non-leaking and battery life is more than conventional battery.
Tuff Up tube - Honda Patented puncture resistant tuff up tube in rear tyre minimizes the incidents of sudden punctures to the extent of 70%.

Excerpts from Company officials:
"Honda will continue to make innovative and appealing products to serve the new aspirations of Indian customers. Our commitment to India is much larger than selling the products .We have comprehensive policy for Expansion of 'Fun, Safety and Environment conservation' activities to make 'Honda' a company that society admires the most." - Mr. Shinji Aoyama, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Ltd.

"Being a market leader in the scooter segment, HMSI has launched the New Aviator with premium appeal and increased economy for further expansion of scooter market. From beginning, we plan to sell 10,000 units /month through our 690 outlets all across country. Further, there is good response from customers towards all HMSI products, so we shall achieve our set target of 12.5 lac units during the current year 2009-10 registering a growth of 17% over last financial year." - explained Mr. N.K Rattan, Operation Head, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. in his presentation.

Source: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd.

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