Skoda launches new Fabia in India

Skoda India, the country's one of the leading auto maker, has launched the brand new facelift of Skoda Fabia in the Indian auto market. The most popular car has been blessed with a new powerful engine along with some cosmetic changes. This all new Skoda Fabia now comes with a 1.2 L Petrol engine, which already powers Volkswagen Polo. The press conference at the launch venue was preceded over by Mr. Thomas Kuehl, Director and Board member sales and marketing, Skoda Auto India. The car has been launched in three engine options, each of which comes in three variants. The engines powering the variants include 1.2L, 3 Cylinder, 75bhp, MPI petrol engine (Same engine that comes in Polo petrol),1.6 MPI, 105 bhp petrol engine (same engine that comes in Polo sports and Vento petrol) and 1.2L, 3 Cylinder, 75 bhp, TDI diesel engine (Polo diesel's engine). The refurbished engine in the car has left a drastic effect on the performance of the car.



The existing model of Fabia is available in both options of the diesel and petrol engines. The petrol engine comes with a three-cylinder 1.2 HTP engine along with a power output of 51 kW, while the diesel one is equipped with a three-cylinder 1.4 turbo engine with a power output of 51 kW. This one also offers high-pressure direct injection system, OHC and transverse in front. The Skoda Fabia with a new facelift has got some aggressive and attractive cosmetic features and other attributes as well.



The car is blessed with a great design and style. The other features include a New Tail lamp Wider tyre, larger fog lamp, Dash (Center console) same like Polo and Vento, dual tone dashboard, manual AC, MP3 cd player, Dual Front Airbags, ABS (Antilock Brake Syatem), Motor speed regulation (MSR), Engine Braking Control (EBC), Dual Rate Brake Assist, 14 alloy wheels in elegance (top end variant), height and reach adjustable steering wheel. The all new variants of Skoda Fabia comes at an attractive price tag at Rs. 4.19 lacs (Base Variant).

New BMW X5 2011 to be introduced in India next year

World's major luxury car manufacturer, BMW is planning to launch a new version of its most selling SUV, BMW X5 2011 in India next year (mid-2011). The new BMW X5 will be loaded with a new more powerful engine and a considerably updated look. According to some news sources, the cosmetic changes are only minor such as front new bumper. The company engineers and designers have created over 4000 new parts. The other X-series models that are believes to launch in the Indian roads in the coming months include, the BMW X3 and X1. The X3 model is expected to be launched in the country by the first quarter of next year.



It is expected that the BMW X3 model will carry better aesthetics and improved functionalities. On the other hand, the BMW X1 model is expected to be rolled-out in the country by the end of this year. The BMW X1 model has been built on the E90 3-series platform. According to a statement given by Harald Kruger, BMW’s Head of HR Management, the company has new products like X1 coming into the Indian market that doesn't have any competitor in India. On the other hand, Indian car lovers will see more launches in India that includes Skoda Yeti, Tata Aria, Maruti Kizashi, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Etios.

Auto Mall 2010 in Bangalore

A good news for vintage car and bike lovers, after the success of Auto Mall 2010 exhibition at Chandigarh and Mumbai. Relio Quick India Private Limited, one of the leading advertising and promotions services provider in the country, now looking forward to organise it in Bangalore and New Delhi at the end of this year. The company has officially announced that it will organise the vintage Cars and Bikes rally Auto Mall 2010 exhibition from 10 to 12 September 2010 at palace ground in Bangalore.



The company motive is to create an excellent platform to the manufacturers, retailers, dealers of vehicles and allied services to show their innovative creations, hottest products and latest technologies to the potential buyers in India. India's one of India's largest multi-city automobile exhibition, 'Auto Mall 2010', which is going to held in Bangalore along with 12 vintage cars and six Lambretta bikes drove through the busy roads. According to news sources, the Vintage really during Auto Mall 2010 exhibition, will be started from Cubbon Park to Palace Ground includes the Vintage cars such as Adler 1000, Jaguar, Pontiac Silver Streak, Humberto and Ford Grain Truck of 1927 and Chevrolet Eagle series. Bhaskar Rao, the Transport Commissioner will flag off this event.

Tata Motors tie-up with IndusInd Bank for retail financing

Tata Motors has entered into an understanding with IndusInd Bank for financing its range of passenger vehicles to provide an added facility of finance to its customers. A memorandum of understanding was signed by senior executives of both the companies today. Mr. R. Ramakrishnan Vice President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors Limited said, “The customers of Tata Motors will now have access to customised finance products from IndusInd Bank. We are sure that our growing network will also drive the tie-up to achieve the aspirational growth targets. IndusInd ranks in the top retail financiers for Tata Motors commercial vehicle segment today and we are happy to extend this partnership for our passenger vehicle business as well. IndusInd Bank will be one of the preferred financiers for Tata cars and utility vehicles.”



Announcing the tie-up, Mr S. V. Parthasarathy, EVP-Consumer Finance Division, IndusInd Bank said, “With this tie-up IndusInd Bank would be in a position to cater the financial needs of Tata Motors customers for the entire range of vehicles sold by Tata Motors. With their huge reach IndusInd Bank and Tata Motors would be able to cater to AAM AADMI ” Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company, with consolidated revenues of Rs. 92,519 crores ($ 20 billion) in 2009-10. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand and Spain. Among them is Jaguar Land Rover, the business comprising the two iconic British brands. It also has an industrial joint venture with Fiat in India. With over 5.9 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top three in passenger vehicles.

Tata Indica V2 Turbomax introduced in India

Tata Motors India Limited, leading passenger car maker, has recently introduce the new upgraded version of its most popular car, Tata Indica V2. The new version will be known as Tata Indica V2 Turbomax. This new model has developed with latest BS IV emission norms compliant. It will be available in two variants including DLS and DLE. In between these models, the DLS version is comes loaded features with power steering making it the top end model while in the DLE model, the power steering has been eliminated.



The punch line that has been given to Tata Indica V2 Turbomax , the new model of Tata Motors, says “More Space, More comfort”. The model has got the fuel efficiency of 19.00 kmpl on highways and 14 kmpl in the city. The new model is also equipped with the 1.4L turbocharged engine. This engine produces a maximum power output of 71PS at 4500rpm. The maximum torque provided is 135Nm @ 2500rpm. Furnace Red, Magnesium Grey Arctic Silver and Mint White are the colours to choose from wherein the Furnace Red and Magnesium Grey colour is present only in Tata Indica Vista Turbomax DLS variant. On the other hand, another major auto market leaders are also planning to launch their new products range including Skoda Yeti, Hyundai Santa Fe and Maruti Kizashi.

Volkswagen starts Production of the Vento from its Pune Plant in India

Volkswagen India began production of its much anticipated mid-sized sedan, the Volkswagen Vento last evening at its plant in Chakan near Pune. Vento is the first car from the Volkswagen brand which has been designed keeping in mind the special needs of Indian customers and will be exclusively manufactured in India. The time-frame leading up to the official start of production of the Volkswagen Vento is unusual as it is only a year since the Volkswagen plant at Chakan started production.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Joerg Mueller, Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India and President and Managing Director Volkswagen India Private Limited, said, “India is a strategic long-term growth market for the Volkswagen Group. The start of production of the Vento is more than just the roll-out of a car. Not only does it mark another milestone in our journey together into a successful future for the Volkswagen Group but also reiterates Volkswagen’s commitment to India. In fact, in the last 3 years, the Volkswagen Group has launched a new model in India every two months which reflects our strong belief in the potential of the market here.”



Volkswagen aims to achieve a market share of eight to ten percent in the next four to six years with the three Volkswagen Group brands, Audi, Skoda and Volkswagen through ambitious plans for India. The Vento is the 18th model from the Volkswagen Group in India of which 3 are fully produced (in Pune) and 8 are assembled (in Aurangabad). Mr Mueller added, “These products – and in particular the Volkswagen Polo and Volkswagen Vento – will help Volkswagen increase its market share in this rapidly growing market significantly. Volkswagen is also in line with the planned ramp-up curve of achieving the full annual production capacity of 110,000 cars at the plant by end 2011.” A month ago the second shift was introduced and there was an increase in the number of employees to more than 2000 to satisfy the continuously high demand for the Polo and the expected additional demand for the Vento.

Vento is a complete made in India car with the longest wheel-base in the premium mid-size sedan segment making it exceedingly comfortable for the rear-seated passengers- a need for most Indian customers in this segment. After launching its compact car Polo in February this year, the Vento is Volkswagen’s second car targeting the mass market. It will be positioned at the upper-end of the country's mid-sized sedan segment. With the introduction of the Vento, Volkswagen will now offer cars to suit the needs of all kinds of customers in India.

Expressing his gratitude to the employees on the occasion Mr. Mueller said, “The Vento is a true reflection of our motto “Best Hands behind the Best in Class”. It would not have been possible for us to start the production of the Vento in record time without your hard work and support. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to every single employee who has contributed in making the Vento a reality in India and helping us write another glowing chapter in Volkswagen’s India journey.”

The Pune plant is a key element in Volkswagen’s India strategy. The scale of investment, commissioning local suppliers and employing people primarily from the region itself demonstrate Volkswagen’s commitment to India. Volkswagen is making an important contribution to the economic development in the region and in the Indian economy in general. Volkswagen also announced the introduction of a second shift of production of the Polo. 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.

Ford India continues to set new sales records in 2010

Ford India has reported a 307 percent jump in July sales compared to last year, with total sales of 8,739 units, four times the 2,146 sales made in July 2009. The sales performance also represents an increase of 20 percent compared to June 2010 figures. The July numbers continue a strong 2010 growth surge that has enabled Ford India to achieve total vehicle sales of 46,751 units in the January to July period. Commenting on the robust and consistent sales growth, Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India said, "We are delighted with our results to date. Sales from January to July 2010 were greater than any annual sales figures reported by Ford India during the past five years. "This success is driven by a number of factors including an improved economic environment as well as new releases and the opening of new dealerships and service centres across the country."

Boneham added, "The Ford Figo is one of the major catalysts behind these terrific total sales numbers. Figo has transformed our business and presence in India and we recently introduced a second production shift to keep up with demand." Since its launch in March, the Figo has been truly embraced by Indian consumers with more than 29,000 sales bookings registered so far. Ford India is expanding its service and dealer network to provide world-class support to its fast growing customer base. The recently launched 3S Brand@Retail* dealership in Meerut (Uttar Pradesh province) is the 167th outlet. With this, Ford India now has a presence in 97 cities nationwide.

Tata Motors Sanand plant quickly ramp-up production of Nano

Tata Motors has recnetly announced that with its 250,000-unit/year Sanand plant becoming operational ahead of schedule, the company will speedily ramp up production of the Tata Nano. Accordingly, the company has begun intimating retainee-customers that their cars are coming up for delivery. This is the final step, before the company opens up sales of the Tata Nano. Retainee-customers are those who had retained their booking with the company though not selected among the first allottee-customers from out of the booking process of 2009. Despite a steep increase in input prices, their Tata Nanos are being priced only three to four percent higher, depending on the model, than the price announced at launch. The terms and conditions of booking had provided that the applicable price of the car for a retainee-customer would be notified at the time of delivery.



Also, as announced at the booking, they have received interest on their deposit. The allottee-customers, still awaiting delivery, will get their cars at the same price as announced at launch on March 23, 2009. Tata Motors would like to reward the loyalty of the allottee-customers for bearing with the company through a prolonged period of delivery, given the capacity constraints till the Sanand plant became operational. As a gesture of goodwill and gratitude, the company has announced for them a choice among a one-year free annual maintenance contract (AMC), or free accessories worth Rs.4000/- or an extended warranty. The Tata Nano has already received an overwhelming response. With the ramp-up at the Sanand plant, customers desirous of the car will soon be able to freely purchase the Tata Nano.

Nissan Micra hits the Indian roads

Nissan Motor India Private Ltd (NMIPL) announced its product offensive in India with the commercial launch of its first ‘Made-in-India’ compact hatchback – the new Nissan ‘Micra’. The Nationwide sales for the all-new Nissan Micra, which is been built on Nissan’s versatile ‘V’ platform would commence from July 15, 2010. Mr. Kiminobu Tokuyama, M.D. and CEO, NMIPL, Mr. G M Singh, Vice Chairman and MD, Hover Automotive India and Mr. Abhijeet Pandit, V.P –Sales, Marketing and After Sales, Hover Automotive India (HAI) along with dealers, trade partners and other key officials attended the event. Nissan Micra is a smart, global hatchback simplifying urban mobility. The Micra has a rich legacy of 28 years and has established its credential by winning many awards.

The all new Nissan Micra has been fine-tuned to meet the different tastes and needs of customers in both developed markets and emerging markets like India. The all-new Nissan Micra is powered by an all-new HR12 DOHC 12-valves 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. Power is rated at 56Kw (76ps) @ 6000 rpm, while torque output is 104Nm @ 4000 rpm. The Nissan Micra comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The wide gear coverage enables the 1.2-litre engine to achieve economy and brisk acceleration. Designed and tested in Japan and manufactured locally in India, Nissan Micra is a global car that will also be sold in advanced markets such as Europe, Middle East, and Africa among other countries.

This 4th Generation Nissan Micra model is born out of the need to simplify the city chaos and enrich the urban driving experience. It is a reliable, stylish, safe and eco-friendly car for people who enjoy everyday driving. In India, Nissan Micra will be available in three standard variants of XE (Entry), XL (Mid) and XV (Top). Available in two interior colour schemes: black and griege (only XV), the Nissan Micra will be introduced in a range of six colours; Sunlight Orange, Brick Red, Pacific Blue, Storm White, Blade Silver and Onyx Black. The Nissan Micra is priced competitively in its segment providing a complete package of features, performance, drivability and comfort. The ex-showroom Delhi prices for Nissan Micra are INR 3,98,000 for XE (entry), INR 4,69,500 for XL (mid) and INR 528,800 for XV (top) variants respectively. Apart from that launches, Indian car lovers will see more launches in India that includes Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, Hyundai Santa Fe, Maruti Kizashi, Tata Aria and Skoda Yeti.

Volkswagen announce the launch of its new Vento in India

World's major auto maker, Volkswagen Automobiles has launched its long awaited Volkswagen Vento in the Indian auto market on 6th July 2010. The all new Vento will be available for grabs by the last quarter of the current calendar year 2010. It has been launched in both Diesel and Petrol variants in the country. The car is comes loaded with the same engine as available in Volkswagen Polo i.e. 1.6 L petrol that produces a torque of 153 nm while the Diesel engine will have a thumping torque of 250 nm. The petrol version would be available in a 6 speed automatic transmission in addition to the 5 speed manual transmission.



The all new Volkswagen Vento would be comes at an attractive price tag of around 7 to 9 lakh. The interiors of the car throw light on the passion for detail of the Volkswagen team as some of the interesting features include a tilt, adjustable steering, height adjustable front seats, electrically adjustable outside rear view mirrors, climate control air conditioning system, a multi-functional display and many more. Comfort has been ensured even at the rear end with enough leg room and head room for the rear seat passengers. One of the most stunning feature is the adjustable front seats from rear side. There are also AC vents at the rear end of the car for the comfort of rear seat passengers. On the other hand, Skoda Yeti, Tata Aria and Nissan Micra are also ready to soon hit the Indian roads.

Mercedes-Benz launches global pre-owned cars business in India

German based luxury car manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz has recently launched its global pre-owned car business for India: “Proven Exclusivity”. This program utilizes specific global benchmarks for vehicle evaluation, quality and warranty to offer Mercedes-Benz certified pre-owned cars to Aulbur, Managing Director, and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India elaborated: “Comprehensive evaluation and refurbishment criteria, scientific tools for audit and inspection as well as manufacturer backed warranty go into the making of a certified ‘Proven Exclusivity’ vehicle. The dream of owning a Mercedes-Benz thus becomes even more achievable. At the same time customers can also drive in their existing vehicles and drive out with their new Mercedes-Benz cars by utilizing the trade-in route under ‘Proven Exclusivity’”.



The pre-owned cars will be offered for sale through the authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships where the customer will receive additional support in areas such as financing, documentation and delivery. Mercedes-Benz Pre-owned cars program has been in existence since 2009 and operates across 35 countries presently. Mercedes-Benz as a brand and a company has enjoyed a very strong equity in the market. Its legendary build, quality and reliability as well as engineering and craftsmanship guarantees a favourable residual value and strong demand in the pre-owned car market. At the same time, for over 15 years with its presence in India, the company sold approx 30,000 vehicles thereby creating a significant potential for the Mercedes-Benz pre-owned car market in India. The pre-owned car market in India is estimated at approx 10-15% of current new car sales in 2010 and estimated to substantially grow for the next couple of years. On the other hand, Skoda Yeti, Tata Aria, Nissan Micra and Volkswagen Vento are the upcoming cars in India.