Feb 28, 2011

Get Your Own Infibeam Pi2 in 48 Hours order Now

Ahmedabad, India; Feb 28th 2011: Infibeam had a great start with the launch of India's first EBook reader, Infibeam Pi. After the stupendous success of Pi, Infibeam has launched its successor the Infibeam Pi2 (read as the Infibeam "Pi - square"). The upgraded version of the Pi now starts shipping today.

Commenting on the developments, Mr. Vishal Mehta, CEO, Infibeam.com, said, "We are thrilled at the response that the upgraded version of Pi has received. As promised the Pi2 starts shipping today and would be delivered to customers within 2-3 days."

Customers may now place orders for the new Pi2 online and get the device delivered within 2-3 working days. The Pi2 comes loaded with 100 free e-books and much more.

Infibeam will ship Pi for free to shoppers across India. Priced at Rs 11,999 the Pi2 will be first shipped to the pre-order destinations whilst we work on expediting shipping worldwide.

http://www.infibeam.com/Pi/Pi2.html



About Infibeam:
Infibeam.com is India's leading eCommerce portal with a selection of more than 100 lac products across books, media, lifestyle, gifts, electronics and automobiles. Infibeam.com is known for its innovative navigation, lowest prices, free shipping and dedicated customer service.

Infibeam.com also offers its web-store technology and associated infrastructure as a service to well- known brands and retailers such as NDTV, K Sera Sera, Hidesign, TTK Prestige etc.

Infibeam.com was founded in 2007 by a group of ex-Amazon employees with expertise in e-commerce and technology. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Infibeam has 250 employees based out of offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. The leadership team consists of MIT, IIM and IIT graduates amongst others with more than 100 years of combined experience in Retail and eCommerce.

Feb 26, 2011

Bajaj launches new edition of Discover 100 in India

Bajaj Auto Limited (BAL), the leading Indian Two wheeler-maker, launched a new edition of its popular 100 cc bike Bajaj Discover in the Indian market on Thursday. The all new Discover 100 is the 2011 edition of this bike. The company said on the occasion that it has sold over 40 lakh Discover brand bikes since its introduction in the market in year 2004. To celebrate this success, Bajaj Auto is introducing the 2011 edition of the largest selling variant of Discover- Discover 100, it added.

The company has offered this latest edition of Bajaj Discover in new exciting multi-colour decals in two options of red magenta and gold green. The multicolor decal of the bike has been blessed with a charismatic 'Auto Colour change' feature.

In auto colour change, the bike's colour changes between two shades depending on the angle of sunlight. According to the company, the all new 'Auto Colour change' feature has been introduced for the first time in the motor cycle industry and this could well be the first one to have this feature in the entire auto industry.

According to a statement given by Bajaj Auto's President (Motor-cycles), S Sridhar, "We have recently appointed more than 130 additional dealers and I expect them to contribute towards the growth of Discover next year. So with a wider network and with the new product innovation, Discover should also keep growing,"

The new Discover 100 carries the same segment leading fuel economy of 80KMPL, better than the mileage of many of its competitors in the 100CC bike segment.

Source :- Car Trade India

Feb 25, 2011

Rare collection of Brahma Kumaris Preaching Now at Infibeam

Ahmedabad, India; Feb 25th 2011: Infibeam announces the widest selection of spiritual content by the Brahma Kumaris. Encompassed in Audio CDs, Video CDs, MP3s, and DVDs, the extensive range of discourse and self help lectures are available at Infibeam.com.


The spiritual journey has dimensions that are primarily subjective. Proper training and guidance thus becomes a requisite to achieve the unthinkable and pay tribute to the inner soul. All this and more, may be achieved through the preaching of the Brahma Kumaris- a pioneer in spiritual healing. Infibeam has an impressive catalog comprising audio and video content by the Brahma Kumaris.

Shoppers may choose from a wide range of life-transformation movies, telefilms and documentaries. You may also opt for spiritually soothing music and other audio content. The exclusive section dedicated to Brahma Kumaris has some rare and exclusive DVDs. The spiritual group members have used similar Audio CDs, Video CDs, MP3s, and DVDs during their sermons. The exclusive Shivani Collection is one of the other major highlights.

Get access to self help lectures, sermons, spiritual songs and meditation techniques. Enrich the soul from within through soul stirring music. Get the best in spirituality and its manifestations at Infibeam's exclusive section.

http://bk.infibeam.com

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About Brahma kumaris:

The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University was first incepted as "Om Mandali". It has 8,500 centers spread across 110 countries. Dada Lekhraj, one of the founding members experienced a series of visions in 1936. The visions revealed a body of knowledge about the nature of the soul, of God and of time which led to the inception of the organization dedicated to spiritual healing.

The world headquarters is nestled high in the Aravali Mountains of Rajasthan, an ideal location for reflection and contemplation. The spiritual community moved into Madhuban a site at Mount Abu, Rajasthan which remains the University's world headquarters.

The Associate Centers and Associate Sub-Centers get financial support by the voluntary contributions of its teachers and students who live and work in the local community. All activities are free of charge and offered as a community service.

About Infibeam.com

Infibeam.com is India's leading eCommerce portal with a selection of more than 100 lac products across books, media, lifestyle, gifts, electronics and automobiles. Infibeam.com is known for its innovative navigation, lowest prices, free shipping and dedicated customer service.

Infibeam.com also offers its web-store technology and associated infrastructure as a service to well- known brands and retailers such as NDTV, K Sera Sera, Hidesign, TTK Prestige etc.

Infibeam.com was founded in 2007 by a group of ex-Amazon employees with expertise in e-commerce and technology. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Infibeam has 250 employees based out of offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. The leadership team consists of MIT, IIM and IIT graduates amongst others with more than 100 years of combined experience in Retail and eCommerce.

For any queries please write to us at pr@infibeam.net

Feb 23, 2011

Infibeam Launches Store for ICC Products

Ahmedabad, India; Feb 23rd 2011: The cricket world cup fever has gripped the Indian sub-continent. The much awaited ICC world cup 2011 is hosted by Asian countries after a gap of 14 years. Several brands have lined up enticing initiatives to add to the cricket extravaganza. Infibeam.com joins in the Cricket fever by offering some exciting products and offers to customers.


Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Vishal Mehta, CEO Infibeam.com said, "Infibeam has always tried to keep its product offering current and fresh. Adding on to the world cup fever, we intend to join in the celebrations and give cricket fans a treat. Apart from a whole range of books and sports items, we have added the Indian team official merchandise on Infibeam".

Besides, Infibeam is also running regular quizzes on its Facebook community; where it is offering attractive prizes to fans who end up winning. People are asked to guess simple things like runs scored by a particular team or a batsman, or wickets taken by a bowler, etc. This would keep fans engaged as the watch the World Cup this season.

http://www.infibeam.com/Cricket/
http://www.facebook.com/infibeam/

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About Infibeam.com:
Infibeam.com is India's leading eCommerce portal with a selection of more than 100 lac products across books, media, lifestyle, gifts, electronics and automobiles. Infibeam.com is known for its innovative navigation, lowest prices, free shipping and dedicated customer service.

Infibeam.com also offers its web-store technology and associated infrastructure as a service to well-known brands and retailers such as NDTV, K Sera Sera, Hidesign, TTK Prestige etc.

Infibeam.com was founded in 2007 by a group of ex-Amazon employees with expertise in e-commerce and technology. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Infibeam has 250 employees based out of offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. The leadership team consists of MIT, IIM and IIT graduates amongst others with more than 100 years of combined experience in Retail and eCommerce.

For any queries please write to us at pr@infibeam.net

Feb 22, 2011

Ford India's Award Winning Fiesta in India 2011

New DELHI, India, 22 Feb, 2011 – Ford’s all-new, award-winning Fiesta is coming to India this year. This marks the first in a series of eight new global products that Ford Cars plans to introduce in India by the middle of this decade.

Announcing the new Fiesta’s eagerly awaited arrival, Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India said, “We are delighted the new Fiesta is coming to India. It will provide Indian customers a premium sedan that reflects their personality in terms of style, technology and performance, and will add a new level of diversity and dynamism to our showrooms."


The new Ford Fiesta will be built at Ford's state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Chennai and the Indian consumers can look forward to a hi-end sedan that will provide sporty design, great ride, dynamic performance and array of smart technologies.

"The new Fiesta will augment the current range of Fiesta vehicles in India, which remain an integral part of our product line-up,” Boneham added. “Our stepped-up launch plan builds on the incredible consumer response to the Ford Figo, which in 12 months has transformed our presence in India and attracted many new customers to the Ford brand."

The new, global Fiesta, which is available in more than 100 markets throughout the world, has sold more than one million units worldwide.

# # #

Source : Ford India

Volkswagen Chakan Plant Reaches 50,000th Milestone

Volkswagen India commemorated the roll-out of the 50,000th car from its manufacturing plant in Chakan, Pune. Dr. Arno Antlitz Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand and General Representative of Management Volkswagen Group and Dr. John Chacko, Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India and President & Managing Director, Volkswagen India Private Limited were present on the occasion along with Holger Nestler, Executive Director, Technical, Volkswagen India Private Limited.

With less than even two years having passed from the start of production at the Volkswagen plant in Chakan, the roll-out of the 50000th car off the production line marks another milestone in Volkswagen's India journey and reiterates the fact that production at the plant is in line with scheduled ramp-up plans. The Chakan plant currently produces three models, the Volkswagen Polo, the Volkswagen Vento and the Skoda Fabia. The 50,000th car rolled out of the plant was a Volkswagen Vento.

"Touching the 50,000th car production landmark marks the beginning of Volkswagen's next growth chapter in India. Realizing this target in just over a year's time from the start of production is a testimony to the popularity Volkswagen cars enjoy in the Indian market. I wish the Volkswagen team great success for their future initiatives and I am confident that the team here will continue this momentum of growth," expressed Dr. Arno Antlitz on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. John Chacko said, "It is a moment of great pride and satisfaction for all of us at Volkswagen on achieving this milestone in such a short span of time. Volkswagen Cars has focused on introducing new products based on understanding of customer needs. The outstanding acceptance of all our products is a testimony to the success of that approach. The continuous support from our employees has made this possible today. I would like to thank the team at Chakan for their undying spirit and motivation and congratulate them for demonstrating how much can be achieved in a very short period of time."

The Pune plant is one of the most modern in the Volkswagen Group which globally has 61 plants. It covers all stages in the production process from press shop through body shop and paint shop to final assembly. With a total financial commitment amounting to Rs. 3,800 crores (580 million Euros), the Volkswagen plant in Pune is the largest investment to date by a German company in India. With the investment coupled with the vertical integration of suppliers and the employment of people, Volkswagen India demonstrates its commitment to the new site.

Source: Volkswagen India

Feb 19, 2011

Ford launches 8 New Models by 2015


Ford India is creating ripples with great new launches in India. Ford India is really happy with the way Ford Endeavor and Figo have created ripples in India. Besides bringing in good volumes the Ford brand has also created a niche in the auto scene in India.


Ford India is looking forward to enhance the volume for 2015 with the launch of eight new models. January 2011 has been the best ever for it on monthly sale volume. There have been 10026 units against the 2453 units of the same period of 2010. Ford is in the verge of enhancing the catalog with 8 new models by 2015.

In addition to the new models, ford Cars is focused on enhancing the dealer network to 200 by adding 30 more. The sale volume for Ford India in 2010 is enhanced and was hugely contributed by Gujarat state with nearly 30% of the net sale volume.

Hyundai Motor India Exports Five Lakh Santro Cars

Hyundai Motors announces that it has exported five lakh units of its flagship car Hyundai Santro from the country. Commenting on the announcement, H W Park, Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) Managing Director and CEO said, "The export of the Santro has reached five lakh units. From the time of its launch, this popular car has been widely appreciated for its design, technology and safety."

HMIL began exporting Hyundai cars in 1999 when it shipped a batch of 20 Hyundai Santro cars to Nepal and had exported one lakh cars across models by 2004. The company exports its 'Made in India' Santro to more than 80 countries across continents. H W Park also added, "With this we gear up for next phase of growth and remain committed to bringing world class products and service to our customers".

He also said, "In a little over a decade since Hyundai India made its debut, it has become the leading exporter of passenger cars with a market share of 57 per cent of the total exports of passenger cars from India."

Feb 18, 2011

Bajaj Auto Focus From Scooters to Bikes

Bajaj Auto is planning on shifting focus from scooters to Bajaj bikes. Rahul Bajaj, Bajaj Auto Chairman is likely to re- enter the scooter segment based on the revival of the market. His son and Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj asserts that the company`s major focus will be on bikes. Commenting on the new developments, he said, "At the moment, we have a clear and sharp focus -- the global motorcycle market".

Rahul Bajaj said that it is quite likely that the company will get into manufacturing scooters gain. But eventually, he directed the question to his son Rajiv, keeping his stated position that he did not take the decisions any more. In late 2009, the company announced that it would stop making scooters by end of 2009-10 fiscal, thereby drawing the curtains on 'Hamara Bajaj'.

Rajiv Bajaj had said the company didn't see much sense in making scooters as the segment didn't sell according to its expectations. He added, "If we are to be a motorcycle specialist, we cannot make scooters". Since then, the scooter market has witnessed significant growth, led by gearless scooters from Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, which is the market leader in the segment now.

According to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers Association (SIAM) data, the Indian scooter market has witnessed a growth of 46.57% at 16, 97,204 units in the April-January period this fiscal, as against 11, and 57,902 units in the comparable period last fiscal.

Bajaj Auto on the other hand, focused its attention on motorcycles. It offered a slew of models namely Discover, Bajaj Pulsar and even increased stake in Austrian bikemaker KTM Power Sports AG to nearly 38.09% in a bid to expand presence globally.

Feb 15, 2011

Škoda grows 26.4% in January

A strong start into the new year for Škoda Auto: with 68,400 units, the Czech manufacturer’s sales rose 26.4% in January of 2011 when compared to the previous year (January 2010: 54,100 sold units). Thus, the brand remains on its clear growth path in the new year. Especially the model series Fabia (plus 30.9%) and Superb (plus 80.3%) were in high demand at the beginning of the year. The company also recorded high double-digit increases in the growth regions of China, India, and Russia.

“Škoda consistently and emphatically continues on its course in 2011 as well,” explained Jürgen Stackmann, the Škoda board member for sales and marketing. “We are focusing on a clear goal and want to at least double our sales until the year 2018. The first month of the year clearly showed that we remain well on our way in 2011, too. Our performance in the growth regions continues to be above average. Particularly positive is the good performance of the Fabia, which has won many new customers worldwide. In India, every second Škoda sold was a Fabia.”

Škoda remains as the clear market leader in the Czech Republic. In its home market, the company sold a total of 4,200 vehicles (plus 1.2% compared to January 2010). An impressive sales plus of 234.7% was recorded by the company’s flagship, the Superb Combi, with more than 400 units sold in the Czech Republic. Sales of the Octavia rose 37.3%, those of the Octavia Combi 37.0%.

In some of the markets in Central and Eastern Europe, Škoda recorded double-digit increases. In Hungary, sales of the brand rose 71.1%, while the figure was 59.1% in Croatia. In Slovakia, Škoda leads the car registration statistics with around 1,000 vehicles and a market share of 22.4% (January 2010: 15.6%).

In the competitive Western European markets (without Germany), Škoda was also able to show strong growth. In this region, sales rose 22.4% to 19,200 units (January 2010: 15,700%). In the Netherlands, the brand's sales rose almost six-fold to more than 3,000 vehicles (January 2010: 600 units). Significant increases were also achieved in Belgium (plus 120.2%), Sweden (plus 35.6%), Ireland (plus 31.4%), and Austria (plus 15.4%).

Still, the strongest growth impulses in January were recorded by the markets of China, India, and Russia. In China, the largest foreign market of the brand, sales increased 40.0%, reaching 20,500 units. In Russia, the manufacturer was able to almost double sales with 3,400 sold vehicles (January 2010: 1,800 units; plus 83.6%). In India, Škoda achieved a plus of 60.8% and 2,800 sold vehicles.

Other individual markets with a very positive development in January 2011 were Turkey with more than 300%, Israel with 75.7%, and Australia with 25.0% growth for the brand.

Deliveries to customers in January 2011 (Škoda models in comparison with January 2010): Octavia (29,800 vehicles / plus 22.2%), Fabia (20,000 vehicles / plus 30.9%), Superb (10,700 vehicles / plus 80.3%), Yeti (4,600 vehicles / plus 27.3%), Roomster (2,100 vehicles / minus 8.5%), Octavia Tour (1.100 vehicles / minus 56.6%).

Tata Motors launches Jiyo Dilli Festival

Tata Motors launched the 4 month long, Jiyo Dilli Festival to celebrate the high spirit of Delhi. Delhites love to live life king-size. Whether it is shopping at malls, catching a movie, going for a music concert or simply hanging out with friends at a roadside food joint – Delhites believe in living life to the fullest.

To celebrate this very spirit of Delhi, Tata Motors Jiyo Dilli Festival will present multiple opportunities to the Delhites to participate in host of activities and events. The Tata Motors Jiyo Dilli festival will kick-start with the Vista90 Paintball Shoot-out contest on March 5, 2011, which will invite leading corporates from Gurgaon and Noida region to enjoy a paintball game while driving in the powerful new Tata Vista90. The finalists will battle it out at Waterbanks, Damdama Lake on March 19, 2011.

During this festival, Tata Motors offers all Delhites a month long scheme. As part of the scheme, Tata Motors Assured, the pre-owned car arm of Tata Motors offers Delhites an exchange benefit of upto Rs. 25,000. Delhites can exchange any brand of used car for a new Tata car. Tata Motors Finance offers consumers the option of an interest rate of 8.99% or a 100% car loan.

Tata Motors offerings does not stop here, the company has also developed a website- www.jiyodilli.com, inorder to capture the ‘live-life-to-the-fullest’ spirit of Delhi. Tata Motors invites all Delhites to share their Jiyo Dilli story through write-ups, photographs and videos. So, log on to the website to share your Jiyo Dilli moment, and follow it for upcoming events.

Hyundai’s flagship model Santro touches 5 Lakh Exports Milestone

Hyundai Motor India Ltd, the country’s largest exporter and second largest car manufacturer announced today that its most popular car, the Hyundai Santro has registered exports of more than 5 lakh units from the country.

The Santro with its ‘Tall Boy’ design re-defined the concept of driving at the time of its launch and since then, it has created a mark for itself with lakhs of customers with its styling, safety and comfort. The popular ‘Made in India’ Santro is now exported to more than 80 countries across continents.

On the occasion, H W Park, MD & CEO, HMIL, said, “I am extremely delighted to announce that the export of the Santro has reached 5 lakh units. Right from the time of its launch, this popular car has been widely appreciated for its design, technology and safety. With this we gear up for next phase of growth and remain committed in bringing world class products and service to our customers.”

HMIL began exporting cars in 1999 when it shipped a batch of 20 Santros to Nepal and it reached the first milestone of exporting 100,000 cars in 2004. In 2005 it exported its 200,000th car followed by its 300,000th car and 400,000th car in 2006 and 2007 respectively. By exporting the 500,000th car in 2008, HMIL had become the ‘fastest’ Indian passenger car manufacturer to achieve this stupendous milestone in record time. In a little over a decade since Hyundai has been present in India it has become the leading exporter of passenger cars with a market share of 57% of the total exports of passenger cars from India making it a significant contributor to the Indian automobile industry.

As Hyundai Motor Company’s global export hub for compact cars, HMIL is the first automotive company in India to achieve the export of 10 lakh cars in just over a decade. HMIL exports cars to more than 115 countries across EU, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. It has been the number one exporter of passenger car of the country for the sixth year in a row.

HMIL accounts 40% of its total production to exports from India. It currently exports the Santro, i10, i20 and the Accent models.

Tata Motors Group global wholesales grow by 16% at 98,998 vehicles in January 2011

The Tata Motors Group global wholesales, including Jaguar Land Rover, were 98,998 nos. in January 2011, a growth of 16% over January 2010. Cumulative sales for the fiscal (April 2010 – January 2011) are 868,583 higher by 27% compared to the corresponding period in 2009-10.

Global sales of all commercial vehicles – Tata, Tata Daewoo and the Tata Hispano Carrocera range -- were 45,815 nos. in January 2011, a growth of 14%. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 408,761 nos., a growth of 27%.

Global sales of all passenger vehicles were 53,183 nos. in January 2011, higher by 17%. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 459,822 nos., a growth of 28%.

Global sales of Jaguar Land Rover in January 2011 were 20,377 vehicles, higher by 25%. Jaguar sales for the month were 3,056 nos., higher by 3%, while Land Rover sales were 17,321 nos., higher by 30%. Cumulative sales of Jaguar Land Rover for the fiscal are 195,819 nos., higher by 28%. Cumulative sales of Jaguar are 46,008 nos., higher by 17%, while cumulative sales of Land Rover are 149,811 nos., higher by 32%.

Global sales of Tata passenger vehicles and the distribution offtake in India of Fiat cars were 32,806 nos. for the month, higher by 13%. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 264,003 nos., a growth of 28%.

Volkswagen inaugurates its first dealership in Assam

Volkswagen today inaugurated Volkswagen Guwahati as its first authorized dealer in Assam. Volkswagen Guwahati will retail all Volkswagen passenger car models currently available in the country. Volkswagen Guwahati has a capacity to display 6 cars in its showroom and a 10 bay workshop including state of art accidental repair, body paint workshop.

While gracing the inauguration Mr. Neeraj Garg, Member of Board, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. said "We are proud to welcome Volkswagen Guwahati into the Volkswagen network. To ensure Volkswagen is in a strong position, we continue to invest our resources on areas like efficient supplier structure and local sales network in the country."

With 70 dealerships, Volkswagen has already established its presence in major cities and towns in India and expects to continue expanding its reach in order to connect with more customers.

According to Mr. Manish Agarwal, Dealer Principal, Volkswagen Guwahati "We are pleased to partner with Volkswagen and look forward to building strong relationships with our premium customers here. We are confident of providing Volkswagen's global standards of experience to our customers as all other Volkswagen international dealership.

As with every other Volkswagen dealership, Volkswagen Guwahati has been provided intense training in management of sales, service, spare parts and business systems to assure customers of the best-in-class pre and post sales ownership experience. Volkswagen sold over 5601 vehicles across the country in January 2011.

Mahindra launches India's Most Affordable 4-wheeler Compact Cab - GIO

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., a part of the US $7.1 billion Mahindra Group, today announced the launch of the Gio Compact Cab, its next generation passenger cab, in Patna. India's most affordable 4-wheeler Cab has been developed to change the face of intra-city stage and contract carriage travel in India. Equipped with modern & trendy looks, style, design, technology and offering carlike comfort, the Gio Compact Cab is competitively priced at Rs. 1.95 lac (Ex-Showroom Bihar, BS3).

The Gio Compact Cab brings all the advantages of a 4-wheeler within reach of the 3-wheeler customer. With the tagline 'Jiyo Nain Andaaz Main', the Gio Compact Cab offers the status, comfort and safety of a 4-Wheeler with 27% higher earnings than 3-Wheelers.

A product which will roll out of Mahindra's plant at Haridwar, the Gio Compact Cab comes with features and build quality otherwise unseen amongst vehicles in the same price category in India. It is the only 4-Wheeler vehicle which can accommodate six passengers other than the driver (D+6). With a 30 kilometre per litre mileage (under standard conditions) plus more passengers per trip, the Gio Compact Cab offers consumers more trips resulting in 27% higher returns than 3-Wheelers. In addition to the trendy styling of the vehicle, the appeal and interiors of the compact cab are a benchmark within the industry.

Speaking on the launch of the Gio Compact Cab, Mr. Vivek Nayer, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, "In keeping with our endeavour of offering first of its kind innovative products, we have launched the Gio Compact Cab today. Its development is a result of extensive consumer insight and market study to understand the latent and expressed need gaps of the customer. It is an ideal vehicle for travel intra-city in the stage and contract carriage segment and I am confident that it would be nothing less than a Game Changer for last mile public transportation in times to come."

Mr Nayer further added," The Gio Compact Cab will not only change the way people look at urban-rural connectivity, but will also redefine specific use in areas like the school children movement segment within tier 2 and tier 3 towns of India. In addition, other segments which will find our vehicle extremely useful include large campuses, resorts and factories that have transportation requirements within their own premises. The Gio Compact Cab has undergone rigorous test runs and has been validated on all requisite parameters and is supported by Mahindra's service network, which is one of the largest and spread across the country'.

Feb 12, 2011

Bridgestone select stores have special identity

Bridgestone, the world’s no.1 Tyre & Rubber manufacturer, has announced the inauguration of its exclusive Select showroom in Hyderabad. The exclusive Select showroom was formally inaugurated today by S. Venkitachalam (Deputy General Manager – South), Bridgestone India . Ltd.

The store comes up Kukatpally Housing Board. The Bridgestone Select stores boosts of an exclusive Bridgestone retail “Identity and Sales” in line with the global retail philosophy adopted successfully across the world.

Speaking on the occasion, S. Venkitachalam expressed, said Select is a unique retail channel concept of a quality shop which promises the customer a Better & Unique Buying experience.”

The store hosts several customer friendly facilities such as: Welcome and customer friendly environment; Smart and stylized interiors; Unparalleled customer service and Wide Product Range, displays and designs.

The other products and services available at the store are: Wheel Alignment ; Wheel Balancing; Nitrogen Gas Inflation; Alloy Wheels; Tyre changing; Batteries

Our brand essence 'Serving society with superior quality' is not only valid for our products but also for Bridgestone service standards which can be experienced at Select” retail outlets.

As a part of its aggressive growth plan in the Indian Market Bridgestone has been expanding its “Select” concept stores in India. Currently Bridgestone has 209 Select stores across cities in India.

Tata Motors Q3 net profit skyrockets

Tata Motors reported consolidated revenue (net of excise) for the quarter ended December 31, 2010 of Rs. 31,685 crores, posting a growth of 22% over Rs. 259.74bn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, with strong volume growth globally in all major markets.

The Operating Profit (EBITDA) was Rs48.22bn in the quarter against Rs. 30.57bn in the corresponding quarter last year. The EBITDA margin stood at 15.2% in the current quarter against 11.8% in the corresponding quarter last year.

The Consolidated Profit before Tax (PBT) for the quarter was Rs27.28bn compared to a PBT of Rs8.89bn for the corresponding quarter last year. The Consolidated Profit for the period (post minority interest and profit in respect of associate companies) for the quarter was Rs24.24bn, a significant increase over Rs.6.5bn in the corresponding quarter last year.

The consolidated revenue (net of excise) for the nine months ended December 31, 2010 was Rs. 875.23bn a growth of 37.8% over Rs. 635.36bn in the corresponding period last year. The Consolidated Profit (post minority interest and profit in respect of associate companies) for the period was Rs66.36bn as compared to Rs3.43bn in the corresponding period last year.

Subsidiary Highlights

The Jaguar Land Rover business continued to show strong profitability, with healthy volumes in Q3 FY 2010-11, reporting a Profit after Tax of GBP 275 mn (Rs19.58bn). Both wholesale and retail volumes improved favourably as compared to the corresponding quarter last year, on the back of improved market conditions and good response to the product portfolio.

Tata Daewoo Commercial Vehicles Co. Ltd. reported a loss of Rs. 44mn in Q3 FY 2010–11 on account of lower volumes and cost pressures.

Tata Motors Finance Limited, the company's captive financing subsidiary, reported a net profit of Rs. 33 crores in Q3 FY 2010-11.

Tata Motors Stand-Alone Financial Results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2010

Tata Motors gross revenue for the quarter ended December 31, 2010 was Rs. 125.04 bn (quarter ended December 31, 2009: Rs. 96.22bn).

Revenue (net of excise) of Rs. 115.2bn, represented a growth of 28.4% over Rs89.74bn in the corresponding quarter last year. The Operating Profit (EBITDA) was Rs11.96bn in the quarter against Rs11.52bn in the corresponding quarter last year. The EBITDA margin at 10.4% in the current quarter represented a marginal increase over prior quarter. However, cost pressures on account of commodity prices continue. The PBT for the quarter is Rs.5.31bn (quarter ended December 31, 2009: Rs.5.55bn). The PAT for the quarter is Rs.4.10bn (quarter ended December 31, 2009: Rs4bn).

The standalone revenue (net of excise) for the nine months ended December 31, 2010 was Rs. 334.40bn posting a growth of 43.2% over Rs. 233.56bn in the corresponding period last year. The Profit for the period was Rs. 12.38bn (nine months ended December 31, 2009: Rs. 16.43bn, which included profit of Rs.6.89bn on sale of investments, which were not liable to tax).

In commercial vehicles strong demand characterised by favourable macroeconomic conditions, freight demand and good finance availability led to robust domestic demand during the quarter, resulting in volume growth across all segments. In the domestic market, the company's commercial vehicles sales for the current quarter, increased by 21.5% year-on-year to 113,622 units. The company's market share in commercial vehicles increased to 64.1% for the current quarter supported by growth in market share in both MHCVs and LCVs.

Passenger vehicles, including Fiat and Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles distributed in India, for the current quarter grew by 4.7% year-on-year in the domestic market to 64,501 units. The market share in passenger vehicles stood at 12.7% for the nine months ending December, 2010. Open sales of Nano, which commenced in August 2010, was extended to 12 states during the quarter and on all India basis in early January, 2011 to a good and continuously growing customer demand.

JK Tyre launches JK Racing Asia Series

JK Tyre, the name synonymous to motorsports, today added another feather to their cap by making the biggest announcement in Indian motorsport in recent times. JK Tyre proudly brings to all the motorsport aficionados the JK Racing Asia Series.

Present at the launch announcement were Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd, Mr. David Sonenscher, CEO, Motorsport Asia Ltd. and Mr. Vicky Chandhok, President, Federation of Motorsport Club of India.

The championship JK Racing Asia Series will run under the patronage of the JK Tyre brand and will remain under the management of Motorsport Asia, the biggest motorsport promoter and organiser in Asia.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. said, “It is a very proud moment for our company today as we announce the launch of the prestigious JK Racing Asia Series. It has been our company’s vision and mission to ensure a global presence for India in the world of motorsport and we have worked endlessly to achieve that.

Our commitment to and tryst with motorsport in India began with the Himalayan Car Rally, almost three decades back. In these three decades, we have catapulted that commitment to the global arena from participation of our prodigies in the revered international series to today becoming the promoters of Asia biggest single seater series.”

“The JK Racing Asia Series will showcase a line-up of drivers from all corners of the world including Asia-Pacific, Europe and Africa. The race car will be christened Formula JK Tyre Pacific and will run on JK tyres” he further added.

David Sonenscher, CEO, Motorsport Asia said, “Firstly congratulations to JK Tyre for another great achievement for their group. We at Motorsport Asia are proud to be associated to a brand that takes pride in all its motorsport endeavours and who are always striving to help better the industry.”

“The JK Racing Asia Series is truly an excellent Series that has helped to groom many of the talented race drivers we see out there today. We are also excited to be coming here later this year to end our first race season with JK Tyre at the newly built Jaypee International Race Circuit” concluded Sonenscher.

Congratulating JK Tyre Mr. Vicky Chandhok, President, Federation of Motorsports Club of India said, “JK Tyre has lived up to their mission of making India the motorsports hub of Asia. JK Tyre’s efforts towards identifying, nurturing and promoting young talent is commendable with its prodigies like Narain Karthikeyan, Karun Chandhok and Armaan Ebrahim, who have made their mark internationally.”

“India is spearheading motorsport development in the region and with the growth of our economy and the interest level of corporates in motorsport, this will further strengthen the efforts of people associated with the sport. F1 coming to India, the launch of the JK Racing Asia Series, the two Indian drivers on the F1 radar bears testimony to this fact. 2011 truly is a year of Motorsports in India”, he further added

The races will commence in April this year, the venues being Malaysia, Korea, Indonesia, China, Singapore and India. JK Racing Asia Series will consist of 18 races on six weekends in the 2011 season. On three occasions the JK Racing Asia Series will support Formula One Grand Prix, in Malaysia, Singapore and the newly built circuit in India. The remaining three weekends will be part of the Asian Festival Of Speed in Korea, Malaysia and Indonesia.

JK Racing Asia Series will feature an ultra-modern standard specification racecar. The Formula JK tyre Pacific is made of carbon-fibre Kevlar, which has been proven to be of the highest safety standards. The 140bhp, 1.2litre BMW engine provides a maximum engine speed of 9,250rpm with a top speed of 230km/h. The race car will run on JK tyres.

The series is in sync with JK Tyre’s philosophy of identifying and developing young racing talents to become future world champions. The JK Racing Asia Series is for the most talented drivers rather than just the most financially healthy to succeed. It is for this reason that both the car and the training programme have been devised so that little if any advantage can be obtained by extra investment.

Viewers in over 100 countries will receive great TV coverage of the JK Racing Asia Series where 185 programmes with 10,850 minutes of coverage are broadcast to a total potential viewership of over 612mn.

Feb 11, 2011

Car, bikes prices may go up again

Car and bike prices may reportedly go up again, the second time in the last two months, if finance minister Pranab Mukherjee decides to increase excise duty by 2% in the Budget as the government looks to bring the duty back to pre-slowdown level.

According to reports, auto companies, may not be able to absorb any hike in duty and additional burden would be passed on to the market. These include top companies like Maruti and Hero Honda. So, an entry-level car priced at around Rs. 3 lakh will be dearer by Rs. 6,000 if the excise goes up by 2%. Auto companies had in early January hiked prices by around 1.5%-2% to offset higher input costs.

Hero Honda said any additional hike is difficult to absorb. The government had extended a total of 4% concession on the excise duty after recession hit global economies in late 2008 and early 2009. The benefits boosted demand to record levels and saw the Indian auto industry emerge among the fastest-growing markets globally, adds report.

SIAM organizes Automotive Design Challenge for engineers across India

Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the apex body of the Indian vehicle manufacturers, is organizing the Automotive Design Challenge (ADC) for young and aspiring engineering and design students from across the country. This event is being conducted by the SIAM Styling & Design Group which is represented by the experts from the automobile industry and looks after issue covering vehicle styling and its changing status in India. This is one of the important initiatives of SIAM to build linkage between Design and Styling resources in India and overseas to share and disseminate information in areas of common interest.

Speaking on the initiative C. V. Raman, Chairman, SIAM Styling & Design Group said, "Aesthetic is playing a vital role apart from the engine and performance in the vehicle Design process. We at SIAM, always believed styling and designing of vehicles to be an integral part of whole manufacturing process, and have always recognized and encouraged the designers who are helping to develop India as a destination for automotive styling and designing. The Automotive Design Challenge would offer a platform to the young students who aspire to make it big the in the field of automotive designing which eventually will benefit the automotive industry in the long term.”

This Automotive Design Challenge (ADC) is aimed to encourage young students to opt for the automobile design as a career and to offer the Indian automobile manufacturers with the talented Indian designers. The ADC will have two rounds of evaluation process. The evaluation would be done on the basis of originality of the concept, clarity of explanation, interactive mobility, environmental awareness and economic awareness. Evaluation of the teams would be done on a weighted average method based on quality of model, relativity between sketch and model, and detailing of the model.

In the previous edition of ADC, a design called ‘Flux’, created by Neeraj Pathak of NID Ahemadabad, bagged the first prize. Second prize was won by Chacko Ebrahim of IIT Delhi who created ‘Vayu’ as his design effort. Present at the ceremony were jury members C V Raman, Chief General Manager, Maruti Suzuki Ltd, B Bhoumik, Sr. Vice President, M&M, Anil Saini, GM, India Design Studio and Pierre Castinel, Design Director, Tata Motors.

Around one hundred students from various colleges across the country participated in the ADC this year. The first round of jury meeting of the ADC took place in New Delhi today where sketches of around 100 plus students were evaluated and 10 best designs from prestigious institutes like IIT-Delhi, IIT-Mumbai, DSK International School of Design Pune, NID-Ahmedabad and IIITM Jabalpur were selected for the second round of evaluation which will take place in February 2011 at the time of the SIAM Styling & Design Conclave scheduled on February 11, 2011.

The theme of this year’s ADC is Personal Mobility for Urban India – 2016. This theme is based on the challenges that would be faced in 2016 related to environment, fuel, speed and style statement. The result of the contest would be announced during the SIAM Styling & Design Conclave 2011 on February 11, 2011. The selected designs would be showcased at the Pune Design Festival, Pune on 12th February 2011.

Pulsar sponsors motorcycle stunt riding team Ghost Ryderz

Pulsar is the official sponsor of professional motorcycle stunt team Ghost Ryderz. This is the first time a professional motorcycle stunt team has been sponsored by a sports bike brand in India and reflects the popularity of stunt biking as a sport in India.

Stunt biking is in the genre of extreme sports like BMX biking, bungee jumping, demolition derby, sky diving etc. that has a higher degree of excitement and adventure than regular sports. Performed by highly trained professionals with special equipment and safety gear, these extreme sports have become a favourite among youth across the world.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Milind Bade, GM Marketing - Bajaj Auto said "Pulsar has been associated with stunting for many years through advertising and recently through a popular reality show dedicated to stunting called Pulsar MTV Stuntmania. Being the No.1 sports bike in India it was only natural for us to associate with the No.1 stunt riding team. By promoting the Ghost Ryderz and organizing more stunt shows we hope to increase exposure to this exciting extreme sport while at the same time ensure that people are aware of the safety precautions to be taken while performing bike stunts."

The Ghost Ryderz is a team of professional stunt bikers based out of Kerala. They have performed at various events, college festivals, on the reality show - Pulsar MTV Stuntmania and many movies as well. Commenting on the association Mikhil Mohan from the Ghost Ryderz said, "Pulsar has been the No.1 bike amongst us stunt riders because of the high power to weight ratio and stability that the bike offers. We have been using Pulsars for many years and are very proud to be sponsored by the brand we love."

Stunt Biking brings out the best of both the rider and the machine and over the years the Pulsar has proven its mettle in this space, being pitted against the might of nature in Stuntmania season II to being the preferred motorcycle to do stunts by trained experts like the Ghost Ryderz. Pulsar is India's No.1 Sports bike and dominates the sports segment, where it enjoys a market share of around 50%.

Audi January sales up 57%

Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, continues its remarkable performance in India by clocking sales of 480 units in January 2011, thereby achieving the highest ever monthly sales figure for Audi in India. This is an impressive growth of 57% as compared to the same period last year (306 units- Jan 2010).

“We are proud of our success at the close of 2010, which established Audi as the fastest growing luxury brand in India. Further, we are pleased to announce that Audi has continued this successful performance in January 2011. Based on this achievement and the current market conditions, we expect exceptional growth this year. Our customer-centric approach supplemented with the expansion of our dealer network and the enhancement of our product line will enable Audi India to grow exponentially over the coming year” said Michael Perschke, Head – Audi India.

In 2010 we maintained our No.1 position in Europe and China. Audi also became the fastest growing luxury brand in USA and India. 2011 will see Audi India announcing many initiatives on product and network expansion. “We continue to enhance our commitment to the Indian market. We recently opened a brand new showroom in Chennai, which was followed by the opening of India’s largest luxury car showroom in Delhi. On the product front, we have introduced our flagship model, the luxurious Audi A8 L, a car that epitomizes exceptional performance and state-of-the-art luxury. We also reached out to our motorsports fans by launching the super sports car, the Audi R8 V10. The response from our customers has been very positive” he added.

The Audi model range in India includes Audi A4, Audi A6, Audi Q5, Audi Q7, Audi TT and the super sports car Audi R8 available across the country: in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Mumbai West and Pune. Further developments include Surat, Mumbai South, Coimbatore, Indore and Lucknow.

Tata Motors introduces new Tata Manza

Tata Motors introduced the new Tata Manza. With a fresh new look of premium dual tone interiors and an exterior make-over, the new Tata Manza delivers a driving experience which is a class apart in the sedan market. The range will be available across all Tata Motors dealerships from February 7, 2011. Equipped with 90PS Safire petrol & Quadrajet diesel engines, the Tata Manza purrs power.

The segment defining headroom, width, legroom, and the rear seat angle ensure comfortable seating. The driver’s seat is adjustable for height and lumber support. The fully integrated 2-DIN stereo system with Blue 5 (that seamlessly makes the music system become your phone), steering mounted control, Aux-in, USB port & DIS enhance infotainment.

Top of the line safety & security features like ABS, airbags, multistage drive away auto locking, rear demister, collapsible steering, energy absorbing steering wheel, door intrusion beam for side impact ensure complete safety. The top end variant of the new Tata Manza series, the Tata Manza Elan, comes with a host of premium features like dual tone alloy wheels, burgundy & beige interiors, chrome garnished bottom weather strip, fog lamps, and an all new premium and exclusive Tyrian wine color.

Among other high-tech features, the Tata Manza Elan also has ‘follow me home headlamps’ which stay on for one minute after the car is switched off and can be extended by 30 seconds more by just pressing the lock key again. Led by customer insight, yet another unique feature is the ‘delayed power window’ --- even if the windows are left open and the key removed from ignition, they can be rolled up by just pressing the power window switch.

The new Tata Manza series, despite its premium features, has been competitively priced, starting from Rs.5.14 lakhs for the Safire petrol range and from Rs. 5.91 lakhs for the Quadrajet diesel range (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Mercedes-Benz January sales up 59%

Mercedes-Benz India continued its high growth trajectory and started 2011 with record sales performance. The company clocked an impressive sale of 640 units in the month of January 2011.

The key growth drivers in January 2011 were the C–Class with 265 units (January 2010=131units), E-Class with 252 units (January 2010= 245 units), the S-Class with 46 units (January 2010= 23 units) as well as the SUV range comprising the M-Class, GL-Class and the R-Class with 67 units (January 2010= 3 units).

Peter T Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “2010 was an exciting year for us. While the market grew at 60% Year on Year, we at Mercedes-Benz India managed a growth of 80%. This clearly shows that, our exciting products, strong brand traction and ownership experience continues to be highly appreciated by our customers”.

This year Mercedes-Benz has kicked off its 125! Years celebrations which will continue across different platforms throughout the year.

Volkswagen Group India shines at Auto Awards

Volkswagen Group India began 2011 on a successful note by winning a total of 30 awards at 8 recently held Auto Awards ceremonies:


Awards Ceremony

Category

Awards Won

CNBC-Overdrive Auto Awards

Premium Hatchback of the Year

Volkswagen Polo

Motorsport Award of the Year

Volkswagen Motosport

SUV of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Performance Car of the Year

Audi A4 TDI 3.0 TDI

Bloomberg UTV Autocar Awards

4x4 of the Year

Skoda Yeti

BBC Top Gear

Car of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Saloon Car of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

BS Motoring Awards

Car of the Year

Volkswagen Polo

Motorsport Excellence Awards

Volkswagen Motorsport

NDTV Car and Bike Awards

Car of the Year

Volkswagen Polo

Premium Hatchback of the Year

Volkswagen Polo

Compact Sedan of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

Compact SUV of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Design of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

Innovation in Advertising

Volkswagen

Integrated Campaign of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Car and Bike IndiaAwards

Automobile of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

Small Car of the Year

Volkswagen Polo

Mid Size Car of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

Crossover MUV of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Variant of the Year

Audi Q7 4.2 TDI

ET Zigwheels Car and Bike of the Year Awards

Premium CompactSedan of the Year

Volkswagen Vento

Most Fun to Drive Vehicle Trophy

Volkswagen Polo 1.6

SUV of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Motorsport Award of the Year

Volkswagen Motorsport

Best Automotive Advertising Campaign

Volkswagen Vento

Best Design of the Year

Skoda Yeti

Auto India Best Brand Awards

Best Advertising

Volkswagen

Best Quality

Audi

Most Sporty

Audi


Expressing his delight on winning the awards, Dr. John Chacko, Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India and President and Managing Director, Volkswagen India Private Limited said, “I feel proud to receive such prestigious awards for the Group. The appreciation we have received from customers and experts for our cars so far has been overwhelming.

It shows us that our focus on producing top quality cars meets our customer needs. The awards won by wide spectrum of cars that Volkswagen Group offers ranging from the compact Volkswagen Polo to the luxury Audi Q7 is a testimony that our products are truly appreciated by our Indian customers. Winning awards for Volkswagen Motorsport just reinforces the success story Volkswagen Polo Cup witnessed in its flagship event in India last year.”

Speaking about the awards received for the Polo and Vento, Neeraj Garg, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Division, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Polo is one of the most beloved cars from the Volkswagen stable and we are very happy with the recognition and awards received by it so far. Winning awards for Vento is very special as the Vento is engineered in India catering to the needs of our Indian customers. It makes us proud that it has already established its place in this important automotive sector.”

According to Thomas Kuehl, Director and Board Member, Sales and Marketing, Skoda Auto India said, “It gives me immense pleasure to receive awards for the Yeti. We have seen great recognition in such a small period of time after its launch. I am confident Yeti will create a new SUV segment in the Indian auto industry.”

On receiving the awards, Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India said, “It has been an excellent year at Audi so far. These awards add to our confidence in introducing our world class cars to our customers in India. Winning awards for Quality and Sportiness only reiterates the fact that Audi ranks high among its Indian Customers. This is also reflected in our leadership in the luxury SUV segment with Audi Q5 & Audi Q7 and in the super sports car segment with Audi R8.”

ŠkodaAuto India associates with Tour de Mumbai I & II, 2011

Škoda Auto India, a fully owned subsidiary of ŠkodaAuto a.s., Czech Republic and one of the most promising automobile companies in India announced its association as co-sponsors with second edition of Mumbai Cyclothon - Tour de Mumbai I & II, 2011. ŠkodaAuto is associating with this event for the second consecutive year to promote greener, safer and healthier environment in India. ŠkodaAuto Cars will be a part of the convoy and be the safety and support cars at the cyclothon.

The cyclothon is being held under the aegis of Swiss based International Cycling Federation, International Cycling Union & Cycling Federation of India in association with ID sports to accentuate cycling habits and its benefits in India. In its second edition, the first leg of the Tour will be held in Nashik (180 km) on February 11 before the peloton travels to Mumbai (108 km) on February 13.

The race has confirmed participation of two internationally acclaimed pro tour cycling teams-USA’s Radio Shack - the winners of Tour de France, 2010 and Italy’s Liquigas- a Grand Tour double winner on board as participants.

Commenting on the association, Thomas Kuehl, Board Member & Director, Sales & Marketing, ŠkodaAuto India said, “We are very excited to participate in the cyclothon yet again. Since year 2004, SkodaAuto a.s. has been associated with Tour de France – the most famous bicycle race in the world and our engagement with Tour de Mumbai - Cyclothon reaffirms that the international cycle racing continues to be one of the strong pillars of our sponsorship strategy in India and worldwide.

ŠkodaAuto with its fuel efficient and eco friendly cars is in full gear to support and promote the social cause of greener and healthier environment. This is our second consecutive association with Tour de Mumbai. Being an automobile company, it’s our endeavor to promote green environment with our eco friendly cars, hence associating with this event was the perfect fit”.

The race with huge participation is offering multiple participation categories- Elite International Men (108 Kms), Amateur Ride (28 kms), Green Ride (15 km), Kids Ride (3 km), Corporate Challenge Ride (14 kms).The Elite race category will also see participation from 44 most promising Indian cyclists selected by the Cycle Federation of India (CFI) across 22 states.

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