Ford Holds Competition to Design Futuristic Ford EcoSport

Ford Motors recently held a university competition in Brazil asking designing engineer students to envision what the Ford EcoSport would look like after 10 years. The initiative by Ford Brazil was received enthusiastically and a flood of entries were received by the event organizers. Such events are usually conducted by major corporations in order to boost creativity amongst the upcoming engineers but also as a way of spotting creative talent for the company before their education is even complete.

The event received a lot of creative and diverse entries and here are some of best ones. The competition was won by a Mr. Eudes Rocha Fernandes, student of College of Goias who was given the prize of a brand new Ford Ka. His entry featured a futuristic looking Ford EcoSport with massive tyres bulging out, sleek front fascia design and a steeply shaped windshield with the large sunroof.

The second prize was grabbed by the entry that showed off a white or chrome looking body colour body with a domed windshield that escaped into the roof. The design looked similar to a Renault Twizy and was voted as the most popular realistic version of the EcoSport after a period of 10 years. The entry was designed by Mr. Hugo Hisamatsu.

The second prize winner along with the runners up was handed out electronic gadgets and a free course on image editing. Now the question is, what would the results be like in Ford India were to hold such a competition in India?  

Maruti Suzuki Ritz Automatic to Launch Soon

Maruti Suzuki has updated their official Ritz website to include an upcoming automatic variant of the Ritz. This is an indication that the company is prepping itself for this launch, quite possibly within the next few days. The Maruti Ritz diesel facelift was launched 2 months back with the petrol facelift waiting in the wings. Well, the wait is over and the petrol facelift will probably be out in a few days. Most of the details regarding the new variant are up on the website. The Ritz automatic will be available only in the Vxi petrol variant and will house the same 1.2 litre K-Series engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. This is the very same transmission currently being used in the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and A-Star.

The Ritz automatic will process out 83bhp along with 114Nm of peak torque. Maruti Suzuki claims the Ritz automatic mileage to be 17.16kmpl which is fairly impressive considering that the Ritz Vxi manual hands out 18.5kmpl. From what we can see the rest of the car is completely similar to the Ritz Vxi manual variant.

However the new Maruti Suzuki Ritz is being offered in 3 new shades namely; Mystique Red, Breeze Blue and Granite Grey. Since the car is yet to be launched the Ritz Vxi automatic price is still being kept under wraps but we can safely assume the new variant will probably cost an additional Rs. 50,000-52,000.

New Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series Revealed

Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed/teased the all new SLS AMG Coupe Black Series, developed by the in house performance vehicle specialist, AMG. The vehicle is making its global debut at the Los Angeles motor show later this month. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version, the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG boasts a fascinating mix of outstanding design, driving dynamics and lightweight construction in accordance with the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy.

With a DIN kerb weight of 1550 kilograms, the SLS AMG Black Series achieves a power/weight ratio of 2.45 kg/bhp. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine generates a power output of 631bhp at 7400rpm and accelerates the most dynamic gull-wing model of all time to 100kmph in 3.6 seconds. The coil-over AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension, the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the weight-optimised forged AMG light-alloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres combine with the electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission featuring a great shift and response times to raise the SLS AMG Black Seriesto a new level. The AMG Aerodynamics package is optionally available to further boost the vehicle's driving dynamics.

"The new SLS AMG Coupé Black Series is a perfect study in the one hundred percent transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to the road. We have drawn inspiration from the worldwide success of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car on both a conceptual and a technological level. Boasting numerous lightweight components and fantastic driving dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees pure, unadulterated 'Driving Performance'. The SLS AMG Coupé Black Series is the ultimate choice for fast laps and highly emotional driving experiences", says Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"The most dynamic gull-wing model of all time goes by the name of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series. Fans of high-performance super sports cars will be fascinated by its high-tech package. The basis for passionate performance and supreme driving dynamics is provided by numerous new developments in the area of the engine, power transmission, suspension and aerodynamics – also according top priority to our "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. Great efforts in the field of lightweight design have resulted in a DIN kerb weight of 1550 kilograms," notes Tobias Moers, head of overall vehicle development and member of the management board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Honda Brio Sedan Diesel Officially named Honda Amaze

So here comes the big news, the Much awaited Honda Brio Sedan (Diesel and Petrol) now gets an official name, Honda Asia today unveiled that the proposed Sedan will be called the “AMAZE,” and will be launched in Thailand and India. More details on the car will be announced later this month on November 23, 2012 in Thailand, and India will get the vehilce in the next financial year 2013-14. Honda plans to introduce this model to accommodate the diversifying needs of customers in automobile markets in Asia where competition is intensifying.

The model will be equipped with a gasoline engine in Thailand. In India, the Honda Amaze will be available with a petrol engine and a newly-developed diesel engine and will be positioned in the entry level sedan segment for the Indian market. These models will be introduced to the market at affordable prices realized by increasing cost competitiveness through local sourcing and production.

The name “Amaze” is intrinsically linked to the Product Development Concept of this new model after extensive study of the diverse needs of customers. Every aspect of the new entry sedan seeks to amaze the customer by offering divergent and desirable values to expand customer delight beyond expectations.

The contemporary style of “Amaze” will entice customers with its amazingly spacious interior yet compact exteriors, which was designed while further advancing the Honda M/M (man maximum, machine minimum) concept*1. The car offers amazing power delivery yet with class leading fuel efficiency, while sustaining core Honda values to appeal to the growing base of middle class customers aspiring to own a Honda Sedan.

Honda Plans for New Honda Brio Centered MPV

We’ve often spoken of how Honda has suffered major setbacks due to the lack of a diesel option in its range of cars. Now with the Honda Brio diesel hatchback firmly in place and the upcoming Honda Amaze sedan, Honda is set on the path to heal its plummeting sales figures. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. From the looks of it, Honda is planning to start work on the Honda Brio MPV once it is finished with the Brio sedan launch. And of course there is a very good chance that this same MPV will land on Indian shores once its Indonesian debut is over.

Now we all know that India is quite literarily a treasure trove for MPV manufacturers with the recent trend for UV and crossover purchases rocketing sky high. And that may be exactly what Honda plans to take advantage of with its new Brio MPV. Once launched, this MPV will offer competition to the current segment leaders, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova. Based It looks like Honda may well have some fruitful and exciting times ahead of them. Stay tuned to CarDekho as we bring you further updates on the possibility of a Honda Brio MPV

Jaguar Land Rover Records 29% Growth in Sales

The British luxury major, Jaguar Land Rover PLC has today reported its second quarter results for the 2012/2013 fiscal year (Q2 FY13) as £431m profit before tax, a 100% increase on the same period in the last financial year (2011/2012 fiscal year £216m). The positive result in the second quarter reflects a 29% increase in retail sales volumes (84,749 vehicles in total) globally. The company has generated revenues of over £3.2bn (an increase of £373m).

Commenting on the results, JLR Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ralf Speth said: "Jaguar Land Rover has delivered another quarter of positive results against a challenging economic backdrop. We continue to see strong sales across all of our key markets." "Jaguar Land Rover will continue to invest in its products, plants and will drive further growth by spending in the region of £2bn across the financial year." 

Dr Speth continues. "In the third quarter, we will see the first customer deliveries of the all-new Range Rover along with the introduction of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake and all-wheel drive versions of the Jaguar XJ and XF." Jaguar Land Rover has created over 8,000 new jobs in the last two years to support its ambitious investment and growth plans. This includes 1,100 new jobs at Castle Bromwich; 1,000 new manufacturing posts at the Solihull plant; 1,000 jobs at Halewood and 1,000 engineers.

Jaguar Land Rover moved to three shifts at both its Halewood and Solihull plants during the first half of the financial year to support the increased demand for its products globally. Jaguar Land Rover invests more in research and development than anyone else in the UK automotive sector and is in the top 10 across all sectors of the British economy.

New Modified Honda City with CNG Launched at Rs 9.54 lakh

HONDA has launched its new modified Honda City, which is compatible with CNG bi-fuel option in India to complement the lifestyles and needs of the customers who are looking for an alternative fuel vehicle with unmatched performance and outstanding fuel efficiency. A buyer will have to pay an extra sum of Rs 50,200 over existing prices to get the CNG kit installed.

The new modified Honda City will be available in V grade which will get retrofitted by a Honda approved CNG kit at all the 45 Honda dealerships located in 28 cities where CNG fuel option is available in the country. Rohan BRC has been appointed as the authorized dealer for providing the CNG kit. The modified Honda City will come with a 2 year warranty as standard value for all buyers. To enhance the performance, the modified grade of the City has an optimized 1.5L, 4 cylinder i-VTEC engine and the suspension has been modified to adjust the additional weight of the CNG cylinder to offer similar driving experience as that of the petrol City. The safety of passengers and pedestrians is a first priority for Honda and the new CNG ready City is fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with Brake Assist (BA), Dual SRS airbags, pre-tensioner seat belts. The front body structure of the car ensures advanced pedestrian safety features.

“Interactive Intelligence” AVN grade

Additionally, new Option City 1.5V Leather with AVN(Audio Visual Navigation) has been introduced in the City line-up which will feature ultra-premium-one-class-above features - Touch Screen, Audio Visual Navigation, Bluetooth, DVD player in addition to CD Player, USB/I-Pod/Aux-in connectivity and Leather upholstery with Leather wrapped steering wheel and Leather wrapped Gear Shift Knob (in MT). The complete range of the City has been expanded to give more options to the customers and will now be available in the following: Corporate, E, S MT/AT, V MT/AT, V (Leather with Sunroof) MT/AT, V (AVN) MT/AT (new) and V MT modified for CNG kit fitment (new).

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Jnaneswar Sen, Sr Vice President, Honda Cars India Ltd. said “Honda City is one of the most successful car brand in the country and certainly the most desirable sedan in its category due to its unmatched values of performance, mileage and overall reliability. We are extremely happy to bring the City with a CNG option for our customers. Adapting the CNG technology is another step to keep low cost of ownership for our customers and will add to the appeal of the car, as it will not only be cheaper to run and maintain but also eco-friendly.“ “In line with the preferences of our customers, we are delighted to introduce the new variant with Audio Visual Navigation which makes the car even more desirable in its category”, he further added.

Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Touches 21,000 Booking mark, a New Record

Maruti Suzuki India that launched the all new Alto 800 on 16th October, exactly a week ago, has now set a milestone of touching 21,200 booking mark, and expects to make the success even bigger in the ongoing festive season sales.

Showing the excitement, Maruti Suzuki India's Chief Operating Officer (Marketing & Sales) Mayank Pareek said, "So far this festive season, there has been 15 per cent increase in overall bookings compared to last year. The growth is coming from across our models but the new Alto 800 has also received a very good response," The all new car has been getting response both in urban and rural markets,"Out of that we have retailed 7,000 units," Pareek adds. In fact the car had touched the mark of 10,000 pre-launch bookings even before the prices were revealed.

Speaking about the launch programmes to push further sales, he adds, "As the market was not moving, we needed a sledge-hammer approach to push sales and adopt a very customer centric approach and launch it everywhere at our showrooms," MSI has been holding over 50 mega camps to display the vehicles, where the customers can directly come and buy off the shelf. 

The company had delivered a total 200 units of the all new Alto 800 to customers last week at a single outlet in Kottakkunnu in Mallapuram district, Kerala. 

Tata Motors Introduces 'Tata Alert', a highway Assistance Programme Across India

Tata Motors has introduced ‘Tata Alert’, a highway assistance programme for medium and heavy commercial vehicles, which will be available across all national highways in India. Through ‘Tata Alert’, drivers will receive on-site breakdown assistance within 4 hours of dialing a toll-free helpline number (1800-209-7979). The 24x7 ‘Tata Alert’ service will ensure that a vehicle is put back on the road within 48 hours from the time restoration work begins. In case of major repairs and the vehicle carrying perishable goods, ‘Tata Alert’ will provide load transfer assistance.

The initiative was launched on the occasion of the Commercial Vehicles Business Unit’s (CVBU) National Customer Care Day, to celebrate the business’ bond with its customers and channel partners. Tata Motors CVBU also introduced, for its Tata Ace and Tata Magic customers, an extended warranty of 12 months or 36,000kms, over and above the existing warranty, for a nominal fee. This value added service can be availed within 30 days of purchase of the vehicle.

An E-workshop manual is being introduced which will enable technicians and channel partners to access latest information, at the convenience of the user. The existing Tata Motors e_Catalogues will also be upgraded and published in 3D format, which will further enhance awareness levels of channel partners and customers, leading to effective order placement of aggregates and components. The company has also launched the Dynamic Order Pad for spare parts ordering, which will enable spare part teams to make better recommendations to customers, while placing an order.

Smart Forvision Concept Car Developed by BASF and Daimler Unveiled in India

BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, today unveiled the ‘smart forvision’, a concept car at the Indo-German URBAN MELA in Delhi coinciding with its theme of Sustainable Urbanisation. Jointly developed by BASF and Daimler, it combines futuristic design with innovative technologies in the areas of energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management. The smart forvision is the perfect vehicle for showcasing new technologies.  

Through Daimler's automotive expertise and BASF's material and system competence a vehicle has been created which showcases technologies for sustainable and holistic electric mobility of the future. The researchers and designers intentionally realised a mixture of visionary materials and technologies in the concept vehicle - some of these are still at a laboratory stage while others have a realistic chance of entering series production. Smart forvision was first showcased at the 2011 International Motor Show in Frankfurt.

BASF, the world's largest supplier of chemical products to the automotive industry, develops sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions for the energy-efficient mobility of tomorrow. The two companies combined their technological competencies for the first time, developing a forward-looking vehicle concept that offers decisive solutions to the challenges of the future. Transparent organic solar cells, transparent organic light-emitting diodes, all-plastic wheels, new lightweight body components and infrared-reflective films and coatings all help to reduce the vehicle's energy consumption and so  increase its range and practicality.

Energy efficiency

State-of-the-art materials and technologies allow new concepts to be implemented in the electric car that not only save energy, but even generate it. The resulting increase in range contributes to further improving the performance and economy of electric vehicles. The smart forvision features energy-efficient solutions such as power-generating solar cells based on organic-chemical dyes on the roof. Combined together with energy-saving organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), the vehicle's roof, which is covered in solar cells, is not just environmentally friendly, but a real design highlight as well.

One challenge in ensuring the continuing development of electric mobility is sustainably producing and using the power required to drive the cars. Electric mobility is at its most effective in preventing climate change and protecting the environment when the energy required for it is generated highly efficiently and with minimal CO2 emissions. For this reason BASF is also working on solutions for producing electricity from renewable energies, such as wind and solar power.

Multifunctional lightweight design

The lighter an electric vehicle is, the less drive energy it requires, and the greater its range will be. Making vehicles lighter will therefore be one of the key challenges for electric mobility in the future, and BASF can make an important contribution here. Lightweight design means replacing heavy, metal components with composite plastic materials that offer the same functionality and stability. Weight can be reduced particularly successfully by substituting load-bearing components, for example the chassis, with fiber-reinforced plastics. Moreover, the smart forvision features the first ever all-plastic wheels suitable for series production, made from the new high-performance material Ultramid® Structure developed by BASF. This material, which is just as stable as metal, can reduce weight by up to 30 percent.

Comprehensive temperature management

The heating and air conditioning systems in vehicles are major consumers of energy. The amount of energy needed to heat up or cool down the vehicle's interior can be reduced with the help of a comprehensive temperature management system that uses innovative materials such as polymer films in the windows to reflect thermal radiation, and high-performance insulating materials.

The smart forvision brings together these forward-looking technologies from the chemical industry with a unique mobility concept and distinctive design. Together, the automotive and chemical industries are making a significant contribution to the affordability, environmental friendliness and safety of electric vehicles. In the smart forvision, Daimler and BASF have laid the perfect foundations for efficient, sustainable, uncompromising electric mobility.

Ford EcoSport to Come in Automatic Transmission as well

Ford EcoSport is unquestionably one of the most awaited vehicles of recent times, and it has got all the reasons to get this much attention. It's compact, has got looks to fascinate one and all , and above all, the award-winning EcoBoost engine that promises to return an impressive fuel efficiency without compromising on the power. Now the latest news coming in is about its Automatic variant, till now everybody was expecting the vehicle to just come in the Manual transmission option, but unlike its competitors including the newly launched Renault Duster, the Ford EcoSport might also come in the AT version.

Such a version was spotted doing test runs at places in India, which further gives us a sense of surety, however nothing on the same has been claimed by the company as of now. And If speculations are to be believed, the EcoSport will sport the similar dual-clutch automatic gearbox knows as Powershift, which is the cheapest dual-clutch gearbox in the world.

Ford uses the similar dual-clutch gearbox in its flagship sedan, the Fiesta as well. However, if it happens, the cost of the vehicle would certainly go up, so whether the company launches the AT version initially or bring it after seeing the response, is still a mystery.

And like we reported some days back, Ford India has officially said to launch the vehicle in February 2013. Although, The prices are not announced yet, we are expecting the car to cost between Rs 7-9 lakh. Stay tuned for more updates on the same . Cheers!

Rolls-Royce Introducing Wedding Editions of Ghost and Phantom in India

The super luxury car maker, Rolls-Royce is all set to introduce the special wedding editions of its flagship salons in India- the Ghost and the Phantom, to lure India's super-rich class. What has inspired RR to come up with the decision is the inspiring fact that every 10th car sold by the giant in India is gifted majorly during the wedding season. Rolls-Royce has launched a purposely hand-crafted model for the occasion.

Speaking about the same, Herfriend Hasenoehrl, GM, emerging markets-Asia told ET that the wedding edition is a car brought on customers’ requests."The wedding season begins on October 30. Requests have started coming in and there are two couples right now who are talking to our dealers about giving personal touches to the cars they want."

He also said that except choosing the colours and veneers, customers are also given the facility to have their name engraved in specific places within the interiors. Rolls-Royce that sold 100 units in 2011, expects to take the number to 150 in 2012 in India, so showing the confidence in India, Hasenoehrl said, "India has the potential to be the largest market in Asia Pacific by 2015 from its current number three position,"

Stay tuned for more updates on the same. Cheers!

Gul Panag Launches Audi Q Life at Women's Power Drive in Mumbai

The German auto giant recently organized Women’s Power Drive, an exclusive program to give women a chance to experience the driving pleasure of the Audi Q range in Mumbai as part of their rollout of ‘Audi Q-Drive’ in the city. The ‘Audi Q-Drive’, is a one of its kind program which gives participants a chance to experience and test drive the Audi SUV range that includes Audi Q7, Audi Q5 and the Audi Q3.

“The notion that SUVs are being chosen by men only, is passé. Undeniably, these sporty vehicles have fast gained a preference among today’s women. A good number of our luxury SUVs are being driven by women in India. Audi has always been at the forefront of bringing out new technologies and offering its customers a luxurious and sporty driving experience. Customer delight is one of the pillars on which we plan to build our future and events like these are designed to give our customers a truly once in a lifetime experience”, said Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India.

Audi enthusiast film actor Gul Panag who had earlier co-hosted the Women’s Power- Drive in New Delhi, took women in Mumbai through the finer aspects of ‘Audi Q Life’ while explaining the features of Audi Q3, Audi Q5 and Audi Q7. Incidentally, Gul also owns an Audi Q5 and recently took a roadtrip to the Sach Pass in the Audi Q5 and Audi Q3. Like Gul, women from all walks of life, cinema and fashion, corporate or professional are also enrolling into the ‘Audi Q Life’.

“I am very devoted to the cause of promoting driving for women. I am certain that Audi’s special focus on catering to this segment will inspire many more women to take to the wheels. The Audi’s Q range - Audi Q7, Audi Q5 and the Audi Q3 are SUVs with different dimensions but all are equally apt for women. I am especially proud and excited to be associated with the ‘Audi Q-Drive’, as it will give women like me an exclusive opportunity to experience the power of the Qs and see how suitable it is for them as well. It was a delightful experience to interact with women Audi enthusiasts in Mumbai and Delhi”, said actor Gul Panag.

To make the experience even more exhilarating, Audi has put together a team of India’s most prominent motorsport experts at the helm of the event. “This festive season we have initiated an exciting campaign, ‘Gift the Q Life’ to enroll more and more people into the ‘Q Life’ not only by buying our sporty range of Q SUVs - Audi Q7, Audi Q5 and Audi Q3 but also gifting a slice of the ‘Q Life’ to their near and dear ones,” added Mr. Perschke.

Earlier this year, Audi had organized a unique drive experience -‘Audi R-Drive’, for its customers across eight (Delhi, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bangalore Chennai) cities in India. The ‘Audi R-Drive’, was a unique initiative which gave participants a chance to experience the award winning Audi R8 V10 Spyder and the Audi RS5. 

Volvo V40 Crossover Launch Slated in March 2013

Volvo India putting a lid on the speculations, has officially announced the launch of the new V40 crossover in India by 2013. The Swedish Auto major has four models in its Indian portfolio Volvo S60, Volvo S80, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC90 at present. With the forthcoming Volvo V40 crossover the company is going to amplify its position and get a stronger hold on the Indian market and will turn the heat on the BMW X1 and Mercedes B-class, the top position runners of the crossover segment .

The crossover is spawned on the newfangled five-door V40 hatchback, however the modish V40 crossover is cosmetically  altered to get a more sporty and agile looks. An all new front grille, bumpers, side sills, rear skid plate and daytime running lights. With a ground clearance of 173mm Volvo V40 crossover sits tall on alloy style body kits which enhances the rugged looks of the car.

Indian shores is likely to the 2.0-litre D3 diesel motor under the hoods of the V40 crossover. The six speed AT gearbox mated to the 2L engine honks 163bhp power to give you a speedy drive. What’s more attractive is the unique amalgamation of a class appealing body style of the crossover which will not go amiss when you drive in the city, can fulfill your crave for the rough terrain drive as well.

Apparently its just the launch date which is out in the open, the price tag and the specifications are all speculated. However as per the auto analyst the Volvo V40 crossover is likely to be tagged at a price of Rs. 30 lakh and is likely to lure the elite class with its next-gen attributes.

2012 Indian Grand Prix Trophy Unveiled

The F1 fever reached its penultimate levels as 2012 Formula One Airtel Indian Grand Prix trophy was unveiled today at Buddh International Circuit in the presence of Mr. Sanjay Kapoor, CEO, Bharti Airtel Limited, India & South Asia, Mr. Bernie Ecclestone, President and CEO of Formula One Management and Administration, Mr. Manoj Gaur, Executive Chairman, Jaypee Group and Mr. Bharat Bambawale, Global Brand Director. The trophy is an aesthetic interpretation of a contemporary and forward looking India on a global pedestal.

The idea behind selecting this design was to ensure that it symbolizes the spirit of F1 fandom in India. The trophy personifies the energy of 2012 F1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix and showcases the best of technology, design and glamour, resonating Formula One’s legacy and is truly in tandem with Airtel’s brand message.

Honda Cars India's Diesel Car Line-up

Honda Cars India which is facing a tough time due to unavailability of diesel cars, is now all set to launch its first ever diesel car in the country by early 2013. The said vehicle will be the Brio sedan based on the company’s flagship hatchback, the Brio’s platform. The similar car has been recently revealed at Honda Thailand’s official website ahead of its launch in November this year over there.

But only a single diesel car won’t help them much to increase the market share, so the company is considering to launch the diesel variants of generation next Honda City and the Jazz, besides a new MPV/SUV, and if speculations are to be believed  Brio hatchback as well can come in a diesel variant. So the major focus of the company seems to be on entry level cars. 

However the company hasn’t commented on the exact specifications of the engines to be used, we are expecting a 1.2-litre i-DTEC and a 1.5-litre i-DTEC that are downsized version of the company’s 1.6-litre i-DTEC, which currently powers European Civic and CR-V.

Speaking about the company’s future strategy in India, Honda Cars India president and MD, Hironori Kanayama said, "We have very ambitious plans for diesel in the coming years. The new engine will drive all new models lined up for the future, including the new small sedan next fiscal. We hope to have at least 3-4 diesel models in the next two years, we are thinking of a sequence and which model we will fit the engine for the launch."

Commenting the company’s diesel line-up for India, he further added, "India is a small car market with over 50% of volume coming from compact cars. So we will explore all options,(sub-4 meter) sedans and utility vehicles. We will be looking at optimisation of the existing platform to reduce development time and cost,"

Stay tuned for more updates on the same. Cheers!

Source: ET

2013 McLaren 12C Spider Convertible Sports Unveiled

The all new 2013 McLaren 12C Spider Convertible made its public debut for the first time at the Gooding & Company Auction preview at Pebble Beach this weekend, however it was shown digitally six weeks back.

The New 12C Spider is lightweight with a high-powered engine that churns out 616bhp, a unique Retractable Hard Top (RHT) folding roof system that can be lowered or raised on the move, and a carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis identical to that of the ground-breaking 12C coupe. Aside from shared architecture, the 12C and 12C Spider share a unique combination of spectacular performance with remarkable usability.

The new 12C Spider will be priced from £195,500 in the UK and is now available to order from McLaren retailers across the globe. First deliveries to customers are planned for early next year. The 12C Spider, in new volcano yellow paint, was dramatically revealed with the drop of a Kabuki in front of a crowd of VIP guests attending Gooding & Company’s preview. McLaren received much more interest over the Pebble Beach weekend where the 12C Spider continued to be displayed along with the 12C GT3 Can-Am edition concept.

Performance

Having powered by the bespoke 3.8-litre V8 twin-turbo engine mated to a 7-speed SSG dual-clutch tranmission, the new 12C spider boasts an impressive 616bhp output. Vehicle dynamics technology including Brake Steer, ProActive Chassis Control and the unique McLaren Airbrake combine to offer sublime comfort in all driving conditions; and yet deliver race car performance and handling on track. An overview of 12C Spider performance compared with the 12C is below:

	2013MP4-12C Spider (625 PS/616 bhp)	2013MP4-12C (625 PS/616 bhp)
0-62 mph	3.1 sec	3.1 sec
0-100mph	6.1 sec	6.0 sec
0-124 mph	9.0 sec	8.8 sec
¼ mile (400m)	10.8 sec @ 134 mph	10.6 sec @ 136 mph
V Max	204 mph	207 mph
CO2g/km	279	279

Technical specifications

McLaren is a carbon fibre pioneer. In 1981 McLaren gave a debut to a carbon fibre monocoque chassis in Formula 1 with the launch of the MP4/1 race car, and in 1992 the legendary McLaren F1 introduced the advanced composite technology to the world of road cars. It was natural then for McLaren Automotive engineers to apply its carbon fibre expertise when developing the ground-breaking one-piece molded chassis of the 12C. Its 165 lb ‘MonoCell’ requires no additional strengthening for it to feature in the 12C Spider. The result is a sports car almost identical to its fixed roof equivalent in performance terms, and weighing only 88 lbs more with the addition of a convertible roof system.

Behind driver and passenger sits a rear windscreen which may also be electronically lowered and raised. With the roof lowered this acts as wind deflector to minimise disturbance to the 12C Spider’s occupants. With the roof raised the rear window can be lowered, allowing the exhilarating noise of the 12C Spider’s V8 twin turbo engine to flood the cabin on demand at any time. With the roof raised the area under the tonneau can be used as an additional luggage area which provides useful storage space. Bespoke luggage (two soft bags) has been designed specifically to fit this space and is supplied as standard with every 12C Spider. The 12C Spider also features a passive Roll Over Protection System to maximise occupant safety. Each buttress contains a steel structure designed to absorb impact energy and protect both driver and passenger.

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Renault Scala Launching in 1st Week of September

The French carmaker Renault is ready to set the auto market on fire next month with the upcoming Renault Scala. Yes, the Renault Scala looks similar to Sunny but is much more premium looking in comparison. Along with a few similarities with Nissan Sunny, Renault Fluence can also be glimpsed in the upcoming Renault Scala.

What catches your eyes first and foremost is the front fascia. The front with the bulging and pushed up headlights that remind you of the wild and ferocious wolf. The styling is aggressive with the Renault diamond placed in the centre over the somewhat hexagonal nose. The rear also gets a pair of new and freshly designed tail lights making the rear end of the sedan very stylish and premium looking. On the outside the Scala gets a lot of chrome, especially at the waist line, adding to the classy-ness. Further, the Scala gets interesting looking 15inch alloys that further upscale the looks.

he specifications are very similar to the Sunny but with one major change being the petrol CVT engine mated to an automatic transmission, which is missing in the Nissan Sunny. The remaining options will be similar to the 1.5-litre diesel and petrol powertrains. Currently the mill used in Sunny diesel is capable of producing a power of 85bhp approximately and the petrol delivers 98bhp.

First adjective that comes to your mind when looking at the Scala cabin is ‘neat and clean’. The dashboard has a no-nonsense feel to it with a compact panel for switches laid behind the steering which has the audio controls mounted over it

.From the overall looks of the Scala, it seems Renault will bite into the sedan segment in a big way, giving way to the French maker who have somewhat re-launched themselves after their break up with Mahindra & Mahindra in a rather interesting way with products like Renault Duster. The pricing here however, will play a major role especially because their cousin, the Nissan Sunny has been doing well in the Indian market.

Freelander 2 upgraded, coming to India soon

Land Rover has finally revealed the first images and details of the facelift version of its premium SUV, the Freelander 2, which will make it debut at the coming Moscow Motor Show. The new Freelander 2 now certainly gets better at comfort, convenience and driving pleasure. What makes it look more plush and attractive are some add-ons like sharper exterior design, new derivatives, vibrant colours, upgraded equipment levels, however the engine stays the same. This Freelander2's India launch date and pricing hasn't been revealed

Interior equipment levels goes to a new heights in the Freelander 2 with a host of fresh and exciting features including three new colour ways as part of a ‘Dynamic’ derivative, brand new centre console, 7-inch colour touch-screen with enhanced audio systems from Meridian and optional satellite navigation

Passive start replaces key dock and there’s a new ‘intelligent’ electric parking brake which adjusts brake force according to the slope the vehicle is parked on. ‘Say What You See’ - a voice activation system with visual prompts, and rear view camera capability are also both new to the Freelander 2

Exterior design details have been revamped for an integrated and co-ordinated appearance, including more contemporary lights front and rear using the latest LED technology and a new signature graphic in the front running lights. The XS model gains all-new 17-inch alloy wheels and an enhanced bodystyling pack.

“The Freelander 2’s equipment levels bring a more premium look and feel to the overall driving experience. In addition, our customers continue to benefit from our refined and economical range of diesel engines,” says John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

He adds: “It’s another step forward for the Freelander 2 where outstanding equipment levels, superb design, safety and all-terrain capability continue to set the standards in this class.”All these great new features are underpinned by the fact that the Freelander scores 5 stars in the coveted Euro NCAP for occupant safety.

As the most capable SUV in its class, the Freelander 2 offers the durability and sure-footed all-terrain breadth of capability both on and off road that only a Land Rover can provide.

Interior

New features and more convenient equipment options bring a host of improved benefits to customers looking for a modern, all-terrain, multi-purpose vehicle. The first thing you notice when entering the Freelander 2’s contemporary looking cabin is a brand new centre console.

The original Terrain Response® dial has been replaced by switches and a shutter reveals additional storage space. A new ‘Dynamic’ derivative becomes available, which comes in three new interior colours; Ebony, Ivory or Pimento, each with matching stitching and co-ordinated door casings to complete the look.

A crisp new instrument cluster with a 5-inch screen displaying primary vehicle-related information, such as temperature and fuel levels, gear positions and Terrain Response® mode, now sits between the dials across the Freelander model range, complemented with steering wheel toggle switches to operate the clearest of drop down menus and vehicle set-up details.Cabin space and safety are improved with the introduction of an intelligent electric parking brake which adjusts brake force according to the slope the vehicle is parked on.

The system is so intelligent it even takes into account whether the brakes are hot or cold. If hot, the system ‘wakes up’ periodically to ensure clamping force is not lost as the brakes cool down. Despite being operated by a single switch, the electric parking brake may still be used as an emergency brake, automatically selecting the most stable braking method by employing skid prevention techniques. An additional safety feature ensures the brake cannot be released unless the driving seat is occupied. More convenience comes in the form of Passive Start which replaces the key docking system, meaning that as long as the key is somewhere inside the car, the engine starts at the touch of a button. Another new feature for Freelander 2 is rear view camera capability. The view from the back of the vehicle is displayed on the Infotainment screen with dynamic lines representing the boundaries of the vehicle and your predicted path as you reverse. The system also incorporates ‘Hitch Assist’, a graphic superimposed on the camera showing the position of the tow ball.

The new ‘Say What You See’ voice activation system will prompt the driver visually with the commands he or she needs to speak in order to control functions in the audio, optional satellite navigation, climate and phone systems. The prompts are displayed in an easy-to-follow ‘step by step’ format on the screen. The navigation system is enhanced with a faster hard drive-based system which comes with all the features the customer would expect such as ECO Route planning, Dynamic Zoom, Visual Lane guidance, POI (Point of Interest) management and repeat TMC guidance. You can also manage waypoints and store locations as well as POIs by name.

Infotainment moves up a level

For the first time on Freelander 2, the premium Meridian audio system is available with a choice of 380W or 825W. The outstanding Meridian sound system is delivered with a new 7-inch colour touch-screen and either the 380W, 11-speaker system for exceptional stereo sound quality or the impressive 825W surround sound 17-speaker system with Trifield technology to provide a natural, enveloping concert-like experience for all occupants. Both are equipped with subwoofers for a deep, bass sound and Audyssey MultEQ audio tuning system. A new and upgraded 80W 8-speaker unit with 5-inch colour display screen is also available at entry-level. Equipped with AM/FM and DAB radio tuners, the music players support CD, DVD, Virtual CD, iPod and USB. There’s also a 3.5mm aux jack input for music players and Bluetooth audio streaming to any supporting devices including headphones. The virtual CD comprises a hard drive which can store the equivalent of up to 10 Audio CDs identifiable using Gracenote.

Exterior

Three stunning new colours are added to the Freelander range, Aintree Green, Havana and Mauritius Blue, whilst an additional all new 17-inch alloy wheel design becomes available as standard on the XS derivative. Exteriors gain a number of new integrated design features resulting in a co-ordinated and premium appearance.

Boasting the latest in Xenon LED technology, the front and rear lamps have been revamped giving the Freelander 2 a sportier yet purposeful new look, set off with a new signature graphic in the front running lights.

The grille and fog lamp bezels now sport a bright finish and there are paint detailing changes to the front grille  surround, insert bars and fender vent to harmonise the different elements.