Rolls Royce launches more customization options for Ghost

The announcement that more than half of Rolls-Royce Ghosts commissioned are specified with ‘Bespoke’ personalization evokes a tradition that stretches back to the pioneering Silver Ghost models of the pre-war era. Echoes of the seemingly limitless imagination employed when the Maharajas commissioned their incredible motor cars can be seen in the desire by India’s new elite to own a vehicle with very special personal flourishes. The good people at RR surely were inspired from the rich lineage when developing the Ghost Bespoke Commission Collection. As many as 24 new magnificent exterior paint options have been added to the 44,000 Phantom bespoke colours that are now available on Ghost. Subtle yet stylish touches to the interior include colored instrument panel tops, colour options for the steering wheel and special Commission Collection leather options with many choosing to match the colour of their hand painted coachline to the interior leather shade. For customers wishing to make a slightly grander statement, a resplendent gold plated Spirit of Ecstasy can be commissioned to adorn the top of Ghost’s iconic radiator grille whilst special ‘R-R’ monogrammed door cappings elegantly expresses the precision craftsmanship of the team at Goodwood. For the ultimate in personalization, Bespoke tread plates stating the provenance of the car or even the owners name or business can be added to the interior door sills.

2012 Acura NSX Concept

But we’ll have to wait to drive it until 2015, when Honda expects the release to make a considerable splash in the luxury market, as announcement of a successor to the NSX model has been expected for years. Now a new form of anticipation can begin as we await the chance to get a glimpse of the car’s dynamic technology and lightweight materials. The vehicle’s 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit has a unique torque system that can create negative or positive front wheel torque. This innovation, facilitated by the duel-clutch will enable incredible acceleration while keeping the car efficient and luxurious. Acura will also be utilizing the newest generation of their VTEC 3.5-liter V6. Meanwhile, the exterior specs for the vehicle, which will assuredly change over the next couple years, are currently listed as 170+ inches in length, 74+ inches in width, 45+ inches in height, and a 101+ inch wheelbase. This expands upon the second generation NSX in every category. As far as the actual materials of the car, we know that Acura’s mission statement boasts a preponderance of lightweight materials, although it’s unknown at this point whether that will entail an all-aluminum infrastructure like the original first generation design. Details about the strength of the engine and the electric motors have not been released yet, although we can expect them to be geared towards a balance between efficiency, fuel economy, and power. The engineering team is being managed by Honda R&D, which will manufacture the car at a facility in Ohio. Acura, which has been struggling in sales against rival luxury brands BMW and Mercedes (garnering under 100,000 units to their respective 250,000 each) is planning on using the next generation of the NSX to catapult the brand back to the stature it carried during the golden years of the Legend and the Integra.

2012 Porsche 911 On-Sale Now

Porsche announced that the new Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S models have arrived in Porsche showrooms around the country. The latest generation of the iconic Porsche 911 is on-sale now. Following its media introduction last fall, journalists world-wide have titled this latest 911 as the best yet. All early indicators point to it remaining every bit the icon it has been since its 1964 debut. “Whether this will be a customer’s first or just their latest Porsche 911, it’s going to be the most invigorating ownership experience yet,” said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “The 911 Carrera and Carrera S are the ultimate choices for drivers who want the fun and excitement of a true benchmark-setting sports car week in and week out, not just for show or play during the weekends.” For 2012, the 911 has been completely redesigned from the ground up. The newest incarnation applies singular balance to the priorities of a new era, preserving the classic 911 lines, yet revisiting every inch for advances in power and fuel economy. While still instantly recognizable as a Porsche 911 at a glance, 90 percent of the 2012 911′s components are either new or fundamentally revised. Longer, lower, wider, 100 lbs. lighter, faster and more efficient than previous models, the 911 is the perfect blend of modern design, intelligent engineering and performance DNA. In addition to aesthetic improvements, both new models offer significant performance enhancements. The 2012 911 Carrera is equipped with a new, 350-horsepower, 3.4-liter boxer engine that provides five more horsepower (HP) than the outgoing 3.6-liter engine, while the Carrera S features a 400 HP, 3.8-liter boxer engine–a 15 HP improvement versus its predecessor. The 911 Carrera with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) accelerates from zero to 60 in 4.4 seconds, while the Carrera S sprints from zero to 60 in a mere 4.1 seconds. That time is reduced even further to 3.9 seconds when equipped with the Sports Chrono Package Plus. Top-track-speeds for the 911 Carrera and Carrera S are 179 and 188 mph, respectively. As with every generation, the new 911 Carrera continues to raise the bar in both performance and efficiency. This is achieved through systems such as the Automatic Start/Stop function, engine and transmission thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and–in conjunction with PDK–the ability to ‘sail’ or coast. The new electro-mechanical power steering offers the typical Porsche precision and helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. The new 911 Carrera Coupe has a base MSRP of $82,100, and the 911 Carrera S Coupe starts at $96,400 (excluding destination fees).

Land Rover Reveals Evoque Convertible

Land Rover will unveil a Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The Evoque Convertible Concept vehicle will explore the potential for the world’s first premium convertible SUV. The soft-top convertible concept is based on the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. It features a fully retractable premium roof system with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. The concept cleverly combines capability and versatility with a drop down tailgate and a comfortable four seat package. The vehicle has been developed with Land Rover DNA at its heart, retaining key characteristics including a command driving position and all-terrain capability. The Evoque’s dramatic rising waist line and distinctive shape has been retained and the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line. Inside, the concept is packed with Evoque’s award winning technology including Terrain Response, surround cameras, Park Assist and class leading infotainment featuring an 8-inch dual view touch screen and a sound system from British audio experts, Meridian. The Evoque Convertible Concept features unique 21-inch Titan silver wheels and is finished in a new metallic Causeway Grey paint. The interior is in Lunar and Ivory with leather seats featuring sporty perforated panels and Ivory contrast stitching. The Range Rover Evoque has been on sale for six months and is widely recognised as an international success with strong sales performances in 170 global markets, and achieving excellent customer satisfaction and class-leading residual values. The Evoque has been launched to worldwide media acclaim and to date has been honoured with over 90 international awards. John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director said: “The Evoque Convertible Concept is a new twist to the Evoque story and explores the potential to further extend the nameplate’s appeal by giving existing customers more choice, whilst at the same time reaching out to a completely new customer base. We are excited to see the response to this concept as we assess the potential for building on the Evoque’s exceptional success so far.” The Evoque Convertible Concept will be revealed at Geneva as a design and engineering study. There are no production plans confirmed.

A car for blind drivers! Impossible is Nothing.....

Ever seen a blind man easily driving a car? It does happen. Believe it or Not! Recently, Steve Mahan, with 95% blindness drove a car. Well, almost. Mahan got seated in the driver’s seat of a heavily modified car by Google and simply speaking, the car drove herself. Mahan joked by saying."Look ma, no hands. No hands, no feet... This is some of the best driving I have ever done." If you always thought that Google is merely a search engine then you are probably one of the most uninformed guys around. At least, I was. Until I heard about this project from Google that deals with developing self driving cars. Google had asked Steve Mahan to use one of the seven modified Toyota Prius it had readied for this project. "We organized this test as a technical experiment outside of our core research efforts, but we think it's also a promising look at what this kind of technology may one day deliver for society if rigorous technical and safety standards can be met," Google said. Google has claimed that these driverless cars have clocked more than 200,000 miles in testing on real road conditions." The cars have been fitted with various sensors, including a spinning laser radar, and cameras that map the environment around the vehicles."These sensors feed real-time into a quad-core computer, which can process 1.3 million laser measurements and make 20 driving decisions every second," said the spokesperson. "The sensors help determine where other cars are and how fast they are moving. The software controls acceleration and deceleration, and mounted cameras read and interpret traffic lights and other signs." This project at Google is headed by Sebastian Thrun, an expert in artificial intelligence. Google has said that now that these cars have come so far, it is now working on the handling of the vehicle in severe weather conditions.

2013 Audi A6 Allroad Revealed‎

The first two generations of the allroad quattro from the years 2000 and 2006 were winners, and Audi hopes to build on this success with the third generation. The new A6 allroad quattro extends the range of uses for the A6 Avant because when the asphalt ends, it just keeps on driving. Performance has improved and fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 20 percent compared with the previous model. The new A6 allroad quattro is 4.94 meters (16.21 ft) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 ft) wide and 1.47 (4.82 ft) meters tall, making it a few millimeters bigger than the Avant. It follows the Audi ultra lightweight construction principle familiar from the sedan, with aluminum components making up roughly 20 percent of its body. The Audi A6 allroad quattro has a sportily distinctive road stance. It features balanced proportions, sharp lines delineate taut surfaces and the roof line flows into flat D-pillars. Audi offers progressive LED technology as an option for the headlights and tail lights. The xenon plus headlights can be combined with adaptive light, which ensures that the road is always properly illuminated for the situation at hand. The body of the new A6 allroad quattro sits six centimeters (2.36 in) higher than that of the A6 Avant. Setting it apart are, in particular, the trim strips on the side sills, the more widely flared fenders and the single-frame grille with vertical slats. Stainless steel covers protect the underbody at the front and rear of the car, and the exhaust system ends in two large, flattened tailpipes. The roof rails are mounted on double bars. The wheel well edges, the bumpers and the sills are painted in a contrasting color. Audi also offers a full paint finish in combination with the optional aluminum exterior package. The color Java Braun is available exclusively for the new A6 allroad quattro. The interior of the Audi A6 allroad quattro offers plenty of space thanks to the long wheelbase of 2.91 meters (9.55 ft). It features a lean, elegant design, exemplarily clear ergonomics and superior workmanship. A function that depicts the car’s pitch has been added to the MMI operating system, the soft keys of which are gleaming aluminum. MMI comes as standard, as does the onboard computer with efficiency program. A comprehensive package of restraint systems helps to mitigate the consequences of an accident. Visual cues differentiating the A6 allroad quattro include the carpeting and the instrument panel, which are black throughout. Other refined details include the interior color Santos Brown and the optional aluminum inlays. The door sill trims are also made of aluminum and are emblazoned with “allroad.” The luggage compartment of the new A6 allroad quattro has a capacity of 565 liters (19.95 cu ft). Latches in the luggage compartment make it easy to fold down the rear seats, increasing luggage capacity to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft). Standard equipment features underscore the practical character of the new model – a rail system with an included load-securing kit for dividing the luggage compartment as needed, tensioning straps on the left wall and a double loading floor. Audi offers a broad choice of options for the new A6 allroad quattro. The head-up display projects important information onto the windshield. Ambient lighting bathes the interior with subtle LED light, and the widely adjustable deluxe front seats are optionally available with a ventilation and massage function. Additional highlights include four-zone automatic air conditioning, a panoramic glass roof and the convenience key, which can stay in the driver’s jacket pocket. Topping the modular range of infotainment options is the hard drive-based navigation system MMI Navigation plus with touchpad operation (MMI touch) and whole-word voice control. Its power-retractable eight-inch monitor displays extremely sharp, high-contrast images. The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System boasts 15 speakers. The new A6 allroad quattro is also state of the art when it comes to connection technology. The optional Bluetooth car phone online connects it to the Internet via UMTS, and a WLAN hotspot lets the passengers surf and e-mail. Tailored services for the driver, such as the all-new Audi traffic information online or Audi music stream web radio, are delivered right to the car. Attractive services from Google, including Google Earth, Google Street View and voice-activated POI search, are also available. The Audi assistance and safety systems lend even more confidence to driving. The radar-based adaptive cruise control with stop & go function always keeps the new A6 allroad quattro at the proper distance from the car ahead. At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), the system initiates maximum braking in the event of an impending collision. ACC stop & go works closely together with the Audi pre sense safety system, which is available in a number of configurations. Audi active lane assist helps the driver to maintain the lane; Audi side assist helps when changing lanes. The night vision assistant with marking of detected persons reduces the stress of driving in the dark. The driver information system with rest recommendation function detects when the driver is getting tired and recommends taking a rest. A variety of high-end systems help take the stress out of parking. The park assist system with 360° display takes over the steering; the parking system plus with 360° camera provides good vision in all directions. Four small wide-angle cameras record images of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings, which can then be displayed from a variety of perspectives on the MMI monitor. The new A6 allroad quattro is available with a choice of four powerful and highly cultivated V6 engines – one TFSI gasoline engine and three TDI units. All are three-liter engines with turbocharging and direct injection. They make use of important technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform – the start-stop system and innovative thermal management. Their fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 20 percent compared with the previous model. The 3.0 TFSI, which is boosted by a mechanically driven compressor, produces 228 kW (310 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the A6 allroad quattro from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.9 seconds on the way to a electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). It consumes 8.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (26.43 US mpg). The three variants of the 3.0 TDI produce 150 kW (204 hp), 180 kW (245 hp) and 230 kW (313 hp); torque values are 450, 580 and 650 Nm (331.90, 427.79 and 479.42 lb-ft). The entry-level version consumes on average just 6.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (38.56 US mpg), corresponding to 159 g CO2/km (255.89 g/mile). Audi will soon offer a particularly low-emissions clean diesel version of the 180 kW (245 hp) engine. The twin-turbo 3.0 TDI developing 230 kW (313 hp) is a powerful, great sounding engine. It accelerates the A6 allroad quattro from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.6 seconds; the top speed is an electronically regulated 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The most powerful TDI delivers its power to a smooth and fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The three other engines are paired with the seven-speed S tronic, a sporty dual-clutch transmission. With their wide ratio spreads, the automatic transmissions are major contributors to the efficiency of the A6 allroad quattro. The driver can operate them manually, including via optional paddles on the steering wheel. The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is paired with torque vectoring. During dynamic driving this system brakes the wheels on the inside of the curve, which are under a reduced load, before they can slip. This further enhances traction and handling. The optional sport differential distributes the power in continuously variable proportions between the rear wheels. The chassis of the A6 allroad quattro combines sportiness with comfort. The new electromechanical power steering is sensitive and highly efficient. The optional dynamic steering adjusts the steering ratio to the speed driven. With the Audi drive select system, the driver can vary the function of the steering, the air suspension, the gas pedal, the automatic transmission, the sport differential, the automatic air conditioning, the lighting and the adaptive cruise control. In Efficiency mode, these systems work as economically as possible; their function can be very freely configured in Individual mode. The adaptive air suspension, which combines air suspension with controlled damping, comes as standard. It lowers the body by 15 millimeters (0.59 in) at high speed and raises it by 35 millimeters (1.38 in) at the push of a button. This allroad mode is suitable for rough terrain. Furthermore, the driver can select a lift mode at low speeds. An additional ten millimeters (0.39 in) enables the new Audi A6 allroad quattro to also handle major irregularities in the road surface. The Audi A6 allroad quattro rolls on 18-inch, five-arm alloy wheels and 235/55-size tires. Audi and quattro GmbH offer optional wheels measuring 18, 19 and 20 inches in diameter. The large brakes provide powerful deceleration. The driver can activate a hill descent assist function for steep downhill passages. This limits the speed to between 10 and 20 km/h (6.21 and 12.43 mph), depending on the surface. The new Audi A6 allroad quattro will be available in Germany from spring 2012. The 3.0 TDI developing 150 kW (204 hp) has a list price of €54,600.

Chevy Sonic Turbo Gets 6-speed Auto‎

The Chevrolet Sonic’s fuel-efficient Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine will now be available in either manual or automatic transmission, bringing the increased torque of turbocharging to drivers of automatics. “Providing the option of a turbocharged engine to our non-stick driving Chevy customers allows us to offer everyone the thrill and power of a fuel-efficient Ecotec 1.4L powerplant,” said Jim Danahy, vehicle line director and vehicle chief engineer for North American small cars. “Both in the Sonic and Cruze, the engine enables better fuel economy without sacrificing power or performance. It’s really a winning combination.” Sonic’s Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission achieved a 0-to-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, according to independent AMCI testing – faster than the comparable 2012 Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Hyundai Accent. The Sonic with the turbo-automatic combination went from 0 to 60 in about eight seconds. “Traditionally, turbocharging was used to enhance the performance of engines, but today it is as much about fuel economy as a 0-to-60 time,” said Bob Benedict, assistant chief engineer for the Ecotec 1.4L engine. “The turbocharger provides high-pressure airflow for high torque to boost the vehicle and give the driver a fun driving experience with improved fuel efficiency.” The 2012 Chevy Sonic Ecotec 1.4L turbo six-speed automatic delivers an EPA-estimated 37 mpg highway and 27 mpg in the city, while the manual gets 40 mpg on the highway and 29 in the city.

Ford Fiesta ECOnetic Returns 31 KMPL

The European arm of the US based car manufacturer Ford Motors, Ford Europe has brought out a more fuel efficient version of their hot selling hatchback, the Ford Fiesta. The new more fuel efficient version is being called as Ford ECOnetic and production of the model has already commenced at Ford’s European manufacturing facility. With the steady rise in oil prices in the global market and the recent slump in the European market, consumers would be definitely looking for more cost efficient cars and the ECOnetic well servers the purpose. The Ford ECOnetic (Fiesta) is powered by a 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine that produces 95 BHP of power and 205 Nm of peak torque. The ECOnetic has been declared as the most fuel efficient car ever with the lowest CO2 emissions. The fuel economy figure stands at 3.3 litre/100km (roughly 31 km/l) and a CO2 emission of just 87 g/km. Other features include Auto Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging System, Eco-Mode and Shift Indicator Light. It also gets a special engine calibration, optimised gear ratios, low resistance tires, a lower suspension height and undershield. The car is going to be available in 3 and 5-door versions and with a variety of trim levels. Although chances of this making to the Indian market are close to nil, Ford could utilize some of the technology being used in the ECOnetic to make the Fiesta sedan offered in India more fuel efficient. The country is already witnessing a sharp rise in diesel consumption in the passenger car segment and an ECOnetic based Ford Fiesta sedan would be a big hit in the Indian market.

Mercedes Benz ML Class to be launched in April

Popular German car maker Mercedes Benz will soon introducing the 2012 ML Class in India. The 2012 Mercedes Benz ML350CDI will come via Completely Built Unit (CBU) route and Mercedes Benz should start assembling the SUV in India sometime after the car is launched. This also means that there is a fair possibilty of us getting a budget version of the car with a 2.2 liter four cylinder diesel engine. However, the ML Class will debut in India with a 3 liter V6 diesel engine. There are also a few chances of us getting a 5.5 Liter twin turbo petrol motor from AMG with this car. This V8 engine produces 518 Bhp and a peak pulling power of Earth moving 700 Nm. Ticking a few check boxes on the options list will see the power output being pumped up to 560 Bhp and the torque getting seeing the 760 Nm mark. A 7G speedtronic automatic transmission will be seen mated to the AMG version of this SUV. The ML AMG will have a wider bumper, wider air intakes, a rear diffuser, larger alloy wheels, quad chrome tipped exhausts and distinctive AMG badging over the plain jane ML 250CDI. Engine capacity and fuel options: 3 liter V6 dieselTransmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automaticExpected launch date: 15th April 2012Expected price: From Rs 38 lakha Popular German car maker Mercedes Benz will soon introducing the 2012 ML Class in India. The 2012 Mercedes Benz ML350CDI will come via Completely Built Unit (CBU) route and Mercedes Benz should start assembling the SUV in India sometime after the car is launched. This also means that there is a fair possibilty of us getting a budget version of the car with a 2.2 liter four cylinder diesel engine. However, the ML Class will debut in India with a 3 liter V6 diesel engine. There are also a few chances of us getting a 5.5 Liter twin turbo petrol motor from AMG with this car. This V8 engine produces 518 Bhp and a peak pulling power of Earth moving 700 Nm. Ticking a few check boxes on the options list will see the power output being pumped up to 560 Bhp and the torque getting seeing the 760 Nm mark. A 7G speedtronic automatic transmission will be seen mated to the AMG version of this SUV. The ML AMG will have a wider bumper, wider air intakes, a rear diffuser, larger alloy wheels, quad chrome tipped exhausts and distinctive AMG badging over the plain jane ML 250CDI. Engine capacity and fuel options: 3 liter V6 diesel Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic Expected launch date: 15th April 2012 Expected price: From Rs 38 lakh

Death Penalty For Street Racing At China !!

Any ‘mildly sensible’ guy will frown upon the street racing scene that prevails at many parts of the world. Flicks like Fast and the Furious series have made the situation even worse. Now, street racers at US face quite a legal action on being caught. However, if news on the web is to be believed, as per new rules, street racing in China can lead to a seven year prison sentence or death penalty! While we still maintain that racing activities should be kept away from the streets, punishment like this seems to be a tad too harsh. What say?

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Bentley Showcases EXP 9F SUV

Bentley has taken the covers off their Sport Utility Vehicle concept, EXP 9 F, at the Geneva Motor Show. The EXP 9 F has a very good chance of becoming a production reality and the vehicle could join the Mulsanne, Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur models at Bentley showrooms soon. The EXP 9 F concept will be powered by the Bentley 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine mated with an 8-speed transmission. Bentley, however, is keeping the option open to outfit the new SUV with its recently-launched 4.0 litre, twin-turbocharged V8 or a hybrid drivetrain. The W12 6.0 litre powerplant is good for 600bhp of peak power and 800 Nm of torque. The 0-100 sprint time for the EXP 9 F is expected to create new benchmark for the SUV segment.

We’re not too impressed with the design of the EXP 9 F and think that a product from Bentley in this category could have been grander and more appealing. The new SUV has some interesting, though not necessarily aesthetically appealing design details, such as the day-time running lamp apertures which also act as the air intakes for the twin-turbo W12 engine. The EXP 9F has taken inspiration from turbines, and you can see ample evidence of the fact almost everywhere on the exterior. The turbine theme continues with the 23-inch alloy wheels and the fog lamp casings too. At the rear, the swooping lines try to give a sporting profile to this large vehicle. The EXP 9 F’s rear too has turbine inspired design cues such as 'rifled' inner surfaces of its twin tailpipes and the turbine like design on the tail lamps

nside the cabin, characteristic Bentley luxury prevails. Soft-touch leather, plenty of wood and other premium materials can be found aplenty. The roof has a panoramic glass panel is inspired by the roll cages of rally cars. Rear seat passengers can chose between grand legroom or full internet connectivity via an iPad or tablet or a more reclined position with powered footrest. The EXP 9 F seating is 4+1, with a rear armrest lifting to reveal a cooled compartment for champagne and glasses. At the rear, the lower section of the two-piece tailgate may be used as a viewing bench or picnic table. Bentley EXP 9F Bentley will adjudge public response before putting this behemoth into production. We are sure it will produce it anyway. If Bentley is listening to us, we have only one thing to say – Please don’t do this!

Hyundai India launches new Fluidic Sonata priced at Rs. 18.53 lakhs

The country’s second-largest car maker, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched a new version of its premium sedan Sonata, the manual transmission variant being priced at Rs 18.53 lakh and the automatic transmission at Rs 20.61 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi. The all new Sonata was unveiled at the 11th Auto Expo in January this year and since then the company has received a large number of enquiries. “The all new Sonata powered by our GDi engine offers best-in-class features. Competitively priced the Sonata offers a stylish new choice to the premium customer,” Mr. B S Seo, Managing Director and CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) said. New Hyundai Sonata The sixth generation new Sonata, follows the fluidic design philosophy and derives inspiration from the orchid flower. The side profile looks impressive, very rich and luxurious. The standard features includes 17-inch alloy wheels, HID headlamps with washer, LED tail-lamps, dual-tone beige interiors, leather wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, power seats, push button start and a double-din Audio player with an in-dash six-CD changer. Under the hood it carries a 2.4-litre GDi petrol engine which produces 201PS of power and is mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. GDi technology results in enhanced performance and fuel efficiency as the high pressure fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber. The engineering excellence is extended to the suspensions by way of having hi-tech ASD (Amplitude Selective Damper) resulting in improved driving comfort. As far as safety is concerned, Hyundai have kitted it with six airbags, electronic stability program (ESP) with traction control system (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) along with a rear view camera. The Sonata competes with the likes of the Honda Accord and the Skoda Superb.

Honda City gets another price increase of INR 10000

The cars on sale in India are busy getting dearer these days. Only some days back, the very popular Honda City sedan saw a price increase of Rs.10500 and now, the car has become more expensive by another Rs.10000. As per Honda, the earlier price increase was miscalculated and should had been more. Hence, here comes the second price increase. The new prices come into effect from April 1. This really is bad. The increase in excise duty continues to trouble us car buying lot.

BMW Motorrad Planning To Launch The F650GS In India

BMW Motorrad the two wheeler wing of premium carmaker BMW, is planning to introduce the F650GS in India, reports Autocar India. The 798cc parallel twin engine powered off-roader, with a peak power output of 71 PS of peak power and 75Nm of peak torque is expected to arrive in May 2012. The F650 GS weighs at a rather heavy 200kg, but the healthy power, by Indian standards should make it one of the faster machines on two wheels here. F650 GS India With its impeccable off-road credentials, the F650 should come as a great option for serious tourers who have the money the money to spare. The only trouble is the high 820mm of seat height which wouldn’t be very suitable for those with a short stature. The F650GS will come equipped with 17 inch wheels up front and 19 inchers at the rear, both alloys. Hardcore off-roaders may cry foul over the missing spoke wheels but for most others, the alloys would be more than enough to tackle any adversity thrown at them. The bike will have great tractability, easy riding position and a smooth, comfortable ride quality as its USPs. The bike will also be equipped with ABS to handle emergency situations more adeptly. The bike will be introduced first by BMW Motorrad’s Mumbai dealer Navnit Motors. Expect a price tag ranging between Rs 8 to 10 lakh. BMW F650GS Specs Engine Water-cooled, 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, four valves per cylinder, two overhead camshafts, dry sump lubrication Bore x stroke 82 mm x 75.6 mm Capacity 798 cc Rated output 71 hp at 7,000 rpm Max. torque 75 Nm at 4,500 rpm Maximum speed 185 km/h Gearbox Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox integrated into crankcase Drive Endless O-ring chain with shock damping in rear wheel hub Frame Tubular steel space frame, load-bearing engine Wheelbase 1,575 mm Rim, Front 2.50 x 19" Rim, rear 3.50 x 17" Tyre, front 110/80 - 19 59H Tyre, rear 140/80 - 17 69H Brake, front Single disc, diameter 300 mm, double-piston floating caliper Brake, rear Single disc, diameter 265 mm, single-piston floating caliper ABS Optional extra: BMW Motorrad ABS (can be switched off) Length 2,280 mm Width (incl. mirrors) 890 mm Height (excl. mirrors) 1,240 mm Seat height, unladen weight 820 mm (low seat: 790 mm; lowered suspension: 765 mm) Unladen weight, road ready, fully fueled 199 kg ment) 237 kg (with lowered suspension 150 kg) Usable tank volume 16.0 l Reserve approx. 4.0 l

Piaggio scheduled to launch Vespa LX125 scooter on 26th April in India

The iconic Vespa is set for its third innings in India and will launch its Vespa brand which was present in Indian market a decade before, the Italian two-wheeler and three wheeler manufacturing company, will officially launch its stylish scooter Vespa LX 125 on 26th April 2012. However dealership network was one of the primary concerns in the past. Piaggio for now will start of their venture once again in India with 50 dealers which will be expanded in the coming months. The Vespa LX125 scooter which will be powered by a 124 cc engine, producing 10.26 BHP of peak power at 8250 RPM and 9.6 Nm of peak torque at 7250 RPM. The engine is mated to an automatic CVT gearbox, the air-cooled motor is expected to produce around 50 kpl and on a complete fill-up is capable of doing 425 kms. It is expected to be priced around Rs. 55,000 for the Vespa, which will be offered in two variants (with disc brake and without disc brake). 5 Shades available in Piaggio Vespa LX125 - * Red * Blue * Orange * Silver * Yellow

Additionally, the Firm is in final stages of setting up its manufacturing facility at Baramati in Maharashtra. Initially the Baramati Plant will produce around 150,000 units per annum at a total investment of Rs. 200 crore (Approx.). According to the requirement, company can increase its production capacity. The company is aiming for 100 per cent localization for Vespa LX 125 which will help the auto major to price it competitively.

Triumph to launch Street Single in Indian market

As we reported some days back, British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph has planned some smaller capacity models specifically for the Indian market. It is now confirmed that the seller of some of the most expensive bikes in the country is busy with the development of the above mentioned small bikes. One of the bikes to come to us will be the Street Single. Powering this bike will be a liquid-cooled, four-valve, single-cylinder 250cc engine. The new small capacity models are allegedly on the drawing board right now, and it will take about three years before they are introduced to the market. This surely is great news for us. A manufacturer of Triumph’s repute taking India so seriously and developing models specific to it says a lot about the underlying potential of this market. The Indian motorcycle bazaar is currently undergoing a phase shift. The predominantly small commuter bike driven market is now showing signs that it has the potential to create volumes if the products cater to the buyer’s aspirations without going overboard with the price. In all probability, bikemakers like Triumph will ensure that we’ll soon have a wide variety of reasonably powerful two to three cylinder machines to choose from in the Rs 2-4 lakh price bracket. And wouldn’t we love that!

50/50: Lexus LF-LC Concept May Get Green-Light

Some concepts are widely known from the get go as a production preview concept, while others are clearly defined as one-off exercises. The Lexus LF-LC Concept seemed to fall into the latter category. Every once in a while though, a concept comes along that gets such positive feedback it causes a manufacturer to seriously consider putting it into production. That appears to be the case with the LF-LC, as Autocar reports Toyota is looking for ways to approve it for production. “A decision has not been taken, but we’re now up to a 50 per cent chance from a zero per cent one. Every top Toyota Motor Company manager is aware of the great reception it has received and now we’re talking about how we can do it and fit it into the product plan” says Lexus product planning head (effective April 1st – no April fools) Karl Schlicht. That is in stark contrast to the chance the car would have had at the beginning – zero. Schlicht made it clear the reason the LF-LC is being considered is because of positive feedback. “People have seen the concept and fallen in love with it. Dealers have gone crazy for it as well,” he says. If there is a business case to be made, the positive reception is certainly helping things along. The only parameter for designers of the coupe was size – the goal was excitement, and it wasn’t built to fit around certain parameters. That is often the way the best designs come about. Lexus needs to do more to build up its image as a luxury brand right now and the LF-LC could be part of a plan to do that. The car is a polarizing design that has ignited a lot of opinions – more positive then negative in our experience. Beautiful? We don’t think so, but the excitement it brings is something Lexus needs right now. What do you guys think? Should Lexus produce the LF-LC?

BMW Introduces 3-Series Race Car in South Africa

Racing today has very little to do with production cars. That is never more true than in the United States with NASCAR. With race cars featuring carbon fiber bodies that bear little resemblance to their namesake production cars, it has drifted far from where it began. Ford has broke the trend somewhat with the 2013 Fusion stock car, but under the skin it and the Fusion couldn’t be farther apart. That’s why we like to see actual production cars racing, which is what they do in South Africa with the Bridgestone SA Production Car Championship. BMW South America has fielded a racing car for the Championship, and it based on the 3-Series. The 3-Series has gotten a lot of praise for its excellent handling and dynamics. It is only fitting then that it would be used in racing, right? We think so. The new race car uses a lot of components from BMW’s M Performance Parts line unveiled at Geneva. M Performance Parts is a way to spice up your BMW with out going for the full M monte. Clearly though, a lot more was used than M Performance parts as the car has a price tag of $290K. For competition duty, ADF Motorsport took a 335i and gave it a full working over. Power comes from BMW’s N55 turbocharged inline six-cylinder. In this application it makes 400 horsepower and 440 pound feet of torque. Power boost is thanks to reworked engine control software and modified exhaust and turbocharger systems. Some of the specific M Performance parts used are things lie the front disk brakes, 18” BBS rims and Akrapovic exhaust system. This partnership is going to be a beneficial one for M Performance parts, as it will put them front and center. Carbon fiber elements help to reduce overall weight to about 2,998 pounds. down from about 3406. We’re eager to see how the car fares out on the track.

Ducati unveiled a new Monster Diesel Sportsbike

Italian bike manufacturer, Ducati has unveiled a new customized variant of their Monster sportsbike named Monster Diesel. Diesel is the official sponsor of Ducati MotoGP team since 2011. In order to celebrate this partnership, the new Monster Diesel has been unveiled. The Monster Diesel gets a coat of army-green paint in matte finish with black treatment for its prominent trellis frame, exhausts, wheels and front forks, while the front brake calipers are now yellow. Ducati has also launched a collection of slim-fitting biker jackets, various apparel and accessories. It will be available at Ducati stores around the world from late July onwards. More information is available at Ducati.com from where the desire to own can be relayed direct to local dealers. Mr Gabriele Del Torchio, President, Ducati Motor Holding, said, “The Monster Diesel, and the collection dedicated to it, reflects the “coolness” of this iconic motorcycle and our brand in general. The collaboration with Diesel, underlines our focus on the style and trends that shape the market and I am delighted to associate our world with that of fashion and, in particular, with Diesel. Both brands globally represent technology and innovation in pure Italian style.” Mr Stefano Rosso, Project Leader and son of Diesel founder, added: “When we had the opportunity to work with Ducati, with last year’s MotoGP sponsorship, we discovered a whole world of shared values and common roots. That brought us the desire to create something new together, and we made it in the only way we know: taking the great know-how of both companies and mixing it with passion and creativity. The results are unique products, characterized by a great mix of design and technology.

Garware Hyosung all set to launch the GT250R.

Garware partners with Korean bike manufacturer Hyosung in its Indian operations and takes care of the sales and services. Today, the Hyosung-Garware alliance sells the Hyosung GT650R, the GT650N (naked) and the ST7 Cruiser. It may be noted that all these bikes retail for more than INR 4 lakh and hence, the manufacturer caters to a minimal section of Indian bikers. About a decade back, Hyosung had tied up with the now defunct Kinetic to sell a 250cc twin cylinder naked street bike. This premium motorcycle was christened as the Comet and it still has a fair bit of fan following in the country. Some 5 years back, when I was still in school and the dream bike used to be the cousin's Karizma, the aforementioned bike and I had a little rendezvous and it will be an understatement to say that I was completely bowled over by it. The bike had speed and acceleration that could give some inferiority complex to an average Karizma owner. The only aspect where the bike lacked was the handling department. Still, those Comet days constitute a part of many a fond memories of those days. A few years back, Kawasaki decided to spoil us silly by offering arguably the best 250cc in the world. The baby Ninja has it all, save for the Value For Money factor. The segment became hotter with the arrival of well priced Honda CBR 250R and the rumors of Suzuki 250cc are doing rounds since quite some time. Now, in an attempt to acquire a greater chunk of the Indian market, Hyosung is planning to bring in the GT250R. The news is that the new quarter liter class bike will be launched in a couple of months! The bookings for the bike will open in May 2012. This bike can sure be a lethal threat to the much publicized japs and the GT250R will play a younger sibling to the GT650R. The bike will be priced in INR 1.7-2 lakhs and the smaller capacity variant of the GT650R will retain the V-Twin engine configuration of the GT650R. Hyosung's quarter litre bike has a DOHC layout and fuel injection. The motor produces a peak power of 29 Bhp and a maximum peak power of 22 Nm. These figures slots the bike bang in the middle of Ninja 250R and CBR 250R's performance territory. This sure is an upcoming opportunity for Garware-Hyosung to christen the GT250R as the Comet and capitalize on the brand image.We are eagerly waiting with itching hands for this quarter litre bike to hit the Indian market.

Piaggio plans to launch Aprilia 200cc for India, to rival KTM Duke 200

Last month, 2012 Delhi Auto Expo has showcased many new bikes from all across world. One of the main attractions was KTM Duke 200 and Aprilia RS4 125. These two bikes are set to hit Indian roads very soon. Some other companies that will be paving their way to the Indian roads are Piaggio and Triumph. There are news inputs Piaggio is bracing its self to give a stiff competition to Aprilia and KTM. Piaggio, one of the largest two-wheeler producer in Europe, keeping a close eye on Indian two-wheel automobile market and also on the new entrants in the industry. Aprilia RS4 125 is a smaller version of the globally, similarly KTM has Duke 125, but when launching in India, KTM planned for much more powered bike, so they came up with KTM Duke 200 for India. RS4 125 is all set to get new engine of 200cc from Piaggio, which will help Aprilia to compete with closest rival KTM. The decision of finalizing the engine is not confirmed yet. Aprilia RS4 will be sold through Piaggio showrooms in India. At the moment Aprilia RS4 sale is very low with only 6-7 models a year, and the Aprilia RS4 company officials thought it is not viable for the company to have a separate showroom for Aprilia RS4, so they decided to sell their products through another Italian company Piaggio.

Honda CBR250R April launch

From the makers of VFR1200F here is the new baby. Honda CBR250R is a 250 cc bike from Honda to challenge world’s best 250cc bike Kawasaki Ninja 250R. New 2011 CBR250R is a 250 cc bike equipped with traditional CBR qualities like performance, dynamic behaviour and perfect ease of use. The CBR250R is designed to meet the needs of the most demanding riders. Honda said that the concept behind developing CBR250R was ‘Sport Quarter for One World’. The new Honda CBR250R is equipped with 249.4 cc, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4valve water cooled engine. With the Bore x stroke size of 76 X 55 mm, CBR250R is able to produce massive power of 26.4 bhp (18.7KW) which peaks @8500 rpm (Electronically controlled) which makes the power to weight ratio at 163bhp/tonne. You don’t need to engine rev hard as the maximum torque of 22.9Nm produced @7000 rpm. As most of the power available at lower rev the bike will fire at traffic points. The fuel delivery is handled by Honda’s patented PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection system) which ensures smooth and precise fuel delivery result more power with less fuel consumption. The fuel filter oCBR250R is placed outside the fuel tank to facilitate any intervention and reduce maintenance costs. The engine mass is kept as low as possible by elimination of unnecessary parts and keeping the moving parts like rod and piston light weight. The friction between engine parts also reduced to significant level which you can feel in engine noise. The Iridium spark plug to squeeze out maximum from every drop of fuel. You don’t need to worry about overheating of engine as liquid cooling system ensures the engine temperature at recommended level. The Honda CBR250R got six speed gear box with wet multi plate clutch. The short to long gear ratio means you can quickly move into the next gear. The gearbox is designed to exploit the characteristics of the engine at the same time ensuring quicker acceleration and low fuel consumption. The gear shift feel is very smooth and precise. In order to reduce pollutant discharges, the CBR250R incorporates the latest technology in exhaust. The catalyst metal tri limit emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons to a minimum. An oxygen sensor placed in the exhaust allows the electronic control unit to further reduce emissions by ensuring the best possible combustion. The CBR250R got twin spar steel diamond frame. This steel frame with perimeter configuration ensures optimum stiffness. The perimeter frame means the steering head jointed to the swingarm at shortest possible distance which makes the frame lightweight and rigid. Though, the global trend is towards aluminium perimeter frame, Honda chose steel frame which is stiffer than aluminium. The higher level stiffness of the frame has improved stability and handling qualities of new CBR250R. The new CBR250R got hydraulic 37mm fork as a front suspension which offers travel of 130mm the rear got Pro-Link Monoshock suspension which offer 104mm travel. Thanks to the combination of the front and rear suspension, the CBR250R is able to deliver excellent ride quality with or without pillion. The new CBR250R got special treatment in tire and rim department. The new CBR250r got new tires and rim from its larger CBR series to ensure firm road grip in any condition. The front got rim size of 2.75 x 17 inch with tire size 110/70 x17 the rear got 4 x 17 inch rim size with tire size of 140/70 x 17. The combination of Chassis, Suspension and tires offers dynamic driving position on CBR250r that provides perfect control of the vehicle and which appears pleasant and comfortable on long trips leaving room for the concentration of the driver. It also made the bike weight limited to 161 KG. Honda is known for making safest vehicle in the world and that’s what Honda proved in case of CBR250R. The new CBR250R got C-ABS (Combined braking system with Anti lock braking system). This is the first time any 250cc bike having feature like C-ABS. The Combined Braking System is known for its effective braking control. It ensures the required combination of front and rear brakes which make sure that the braking torque generated in required manner on front and rear wheel. CBS with ABS (Anti lock braking system) surely going to do wonder’s in braking department. The new CBR250R got 296 mm disc with dual piston capiller for the front brake while the rear brake got 220 mm disc with single piston capiller. But the C-ABS system will come as option on CBR250R. The C-ABS version is 4Kg heavier than the non C-ABS version. Front biased styling for motorcycle is trend in Japan and CBR250R has followed the same trend. The new CBR250R features a new full fairing and reinforces its sporty design with sophisticated and dynamic lines. In addition to its sporty look, the fairing proves comfortable for the driver side and weather disturbances. The new CBR250r got 55/60 watt light for its monoblock integrated headlight which makes the visibility better during night journeys. The front cowl and headlight is largely derived from the VFR1200F. The muscular tank and sharp rear tail look like derived from its larger sibling CBR1000RR. The concept of mass centralization is widely used while designing the bike. Honda_CBR250R_2011_Speedometer The seat of CBR250R is just 31 inch (784mm) above the ground level which means even 5 feet 6 inch tall rider will not face any problem for seat height. . In addition, a separated seat that enables the rider to enjoy a wide variety of situations from touring to sports riding. Apart from this the new CBR250R is hosting a storage space under the seat that can carry easily“U” tools on board or other rain gear. The position of handlebars and footpegs are in line with the seat to support a sporty driving style. The riding posture of CBR250R offers optimum comfort and safety. The airy cockpit provides ample amount of air around head and shoulder. The new CBR250R got brand new multifunction LCD instrumentation panel which include speedometer, rpm meter, engine temperature, fuel gauge, clock and odometer. A neutral light is also there. With a brilliant blue LCD backlight, the display looks modern and futuristic. A special silencer with an irregular pentagonal section was chosen for the muffler design in order to reflect the cutting-edge design of Honda motorcycles. Availability of Honda CBR250R Honda is known for its gasoline (petrol) fuel efficient engine throughout the world and the new CBR250 is not expectation. The new CBR250R is able to deliver fuel efficient of 27Km/litre (WMTC mode). With 13 litre fuel tank it can give you range of more than 350 kilometres which is good enough for long rides. The new CBR250R will be available in 3 colours Red (similar to VFR1200F), the HRC Red-white-Blue and Black. As we seen in case of Honda VFR1200F the new CBR250R also going to have accessories list like a purpose designed tail pack, a carbon look seat cowl, wheel rim stickers, tank protection and a u lock designed to fit under the seat of the CBR250R. Honda CBR250R has big plan for India and Honda also said that they will produce the bike in India. It means that more localize part which will reduce cost dramatically. The Honda CBR250R is expected to launch in April 2011 in India with expected price of below Rs. 1.5 Lakh ex-showroom. Honda CBR250R Specifications:- Honda-CBR-250R-IndiaDimensions: Length: 2030mm Width: 709mm Height: 1127mm Wheelbase: 1369mm Seat Height: 784mm Ground Clearance: 148mm Rake: 25° Trail: 95 mm Engine Type: 4 stroke, DOHC 4-valve, water cooled Displacement: 249.4CC Bore x Stroke: 76 x 55 mm Compression ratio: 10.7 : 1 Maximum power: 26. 2 bhp (18.7 kilowatts) @8500 rpm (95/1/EC) Maximum Torque: 22.9 Nm @7,000 rpm (95/1/EC) Carburetion: Electronic Fuel Injection PGM-FI Diameter of the venture: 38MM Ignition: Transistorized with electronic advance Transmission: Clutch: Wet multiplate with coil springs Gearbox: Constant mesh 6-speed return Final Reduction: Ring Chain Final Drive: Chain Training: Mechanical cable Primary reduction 2.808 Final reduction 2.714 Electricals Start Electric Battery 12V/ 6AH Headlight 55/60 watts Chassis Frame Type: Double beam type steel tube (Diamond frame) Kerb Weight: 161 KG/ 165 (C-ABS version) Fuel Tank: 13 litre Rim Front 17 M / C × MT 2.75 Rear 17 M / C × MT 4.00 Tire Front 110/70 ×17M / C Rear 140/70 × 17M / C Suspension Front telescopic fork, 37 mm, 130 mm travel Rear Pro-Link Monoshock, 104 mm travel Brake: Front Hydraulic disc 296 x 4.5 mm with 2-piston calliper and resin pads Rear hydraulic disc 220 x 5 mm with single piston calliper and resin pads

Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR – will it follow, its rivals footsteps in India!

According to the rumors which suggest, the Japanese bike maker Kawasaki may launch Ninja 150RR in India. It is powered by a 148cc 2-stroke engine. This bike had the capacity to produce 30 PS of power, and this bike weighs around 125 kilos. But the launch of the Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR in India looks grim as 2-stroke vehicles production is banned in India, and there are no indications or efforts from Kawasaki, to replace the 2-stroke engine in Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR with a 4-stroke engine. Kawasaki is selling the 150 RR in neighbouring countries with same engine capacity. Due to this reason Bajaj Auto has shown no interest in bringing more Kawasaki motorcycles on Indian roads. But according to some experts, if Kawasaki makes some modifications to the engine of Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR, by replacing the 2-stroke engine with a 4-stroke engine then this bike could fare well in the India Auto market. Because Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR has the capacity to produce 29 BHP in spite have only 150 cc engine. If Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR follows same principle, what other Japanese bike manufacturers followed like Yamaha and Honda. Yamaha have designed its Yamaha R15 V to the Indian market keeping most of the similar to Yamaha R1 except the engine. Following the footsteps of Yamaha, Honda also made modifications only to the engine if Honda CBR 150R which is a smaller version of Honda VFR 1200F. According to us, Kawasaki will certainly not stay behind and offers the Kawasaki Ninja 150RR, which is based on a similar formula as its rivals.

Ironic: 2013 Opel Ampera A Hot Seller In Europe

Only in America. Most countries aim to celebrate their accomplishments. Only here would we develop a revolutionary product and then turn it into an object of partisan derision. And that is exactly what has happened with the Chevrolet Volt. Ridiculous. The whole situation is subject to a lot of eye-rolling by most in the automotive industry. The Volt has nothing to do with the Obama Administration, unlike those would make it so. But, we digress. In Europe, the Volt is sold as the Opel Ampera and it begun deliveries just recently. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into the Volt’s battery caused a delay in the Ampera’s on-sale date. Earlier this month, the car was announced as the 2012 European Car of the Year. According to Plug In Cars, orders have reached 7,000 units, putting the Ampera on track to hit its 10,000 unit sales goal by the end of the year. The Ampera has a few changes versus the Volt that we think improve its appearance. That includes a redesigned front fascia with Opel’s signature swoosh design. In the interior, the Ampera has a two-tone color scheme and piano black plastic center stack that gives off a very upscale appearance. More substantive is a switch that enables the driver to run the gas engine exclusively. At first glance it might not seem to be an important distinction, but it is. Instead of running out the battery quickly on the highway, an Ampera driver can run on gasoline and switch to electric around town. This is not only far better for fuel consumption, but it is also a way to avoid the steep penalties drivers can incur traveling at certain times of the day in high-trafficked areas. Enno Fuchs, Opel e-mobility director, says that “We are extremely pleased with the continuing demand for our Ampera…this news shows us that our sales target of 10,000 units for 2012 is well within reach.” General Motors’ five-week shutdown of Volt/Ampera production could delay some of these deliveries though Opel says the Ampera is attracting buyers from premium brands like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. You think we have it bad with our gas prices? In Europe, gas price averages are often double or more what we pay. Ouch. The Ampera’s sales mean the car could sell more examples in Europe than the United States. Oh the irony.

Harley Davidson launches Sportster Seventy-Two and Softail Slim

Harley Davidson has added two new motorcycles to its 2012 line up with the introduction of Sportster Seventy-Two and Softail Slim. The Sportster Seventy-Two has a hint of the old Sportster Custom while the Softail Slim does away with a lot of chrome and prefers being draped in black to have a 'sinister look'. Harley-Davidson says that the Seventy-Two is inspired by the choppers of the time when flashy colors and loads of chrome bits used to add truck loads of charm to the machine. What adds to the styling of the Sportster Seventy-Two is its Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint, which is seen on the small fuel tank, tail and front mudguard. The 21? Dunlop tyre upfront comes with white side (typical of the custom bikes of the 70s). Powering the bike is an air-cooled 1200 cc V-Twin Evolution engine that provides a peak torque of 96 Nm at 3,500 rpm. The Softail Slim, as the name suggests, looks very much like a Softail that has been put on a diet. The Softail Slim comes with a smaller rear wheel and a shorter mud guard. This bike is powered by an air-cooled 1,690 cc Twin Cam 103B engine that produces a maximum torque of 132 Nm at 3,250 rpm.

India to become a hub for compact diesel engines from Honda

Honda Motors has almost finalized its plans of bringing its diesel motors to India. One of the major highlights of this plan is that India will become a global hub for Honda compact diesel engines. Back at Honda's R&D centre in Tochigi, the Jap manufacturer is working hard on the development of 1.4 and 1.5 litres engines. "Honda R&D is currently developing a small diesel engine. However, we do not have anything specific to share right now," Jnaneswar Sen, senior VP, sales & marketing, told ET recently. Sources close to the Jap manufacturer’s plan are saying that initially, only 100,000 diesel cars, including exports, will be manufactured before a larger capacity facility might be set up. Our regular readers might remember that Honda had recently unveiled a 1.6 litre diesel engine at the Tokyo Motor Show. We reported that this motor will find a home under the hood of the Civic in the European markets. Honda also boasts if a bigger, 2.2 litre oil burner that can be found powering the Accord and CR-V in Europe. "While it is technically possible to downgrade both these engines, the low volumes of the Accord and CR-V (in India) do not justify it. Also the engines for the European market have been developed taking into account the low sulphur content in the diesel there, unlike in India," says Sen. It may be noted that a lack of diesel option is costing the manufacturer quite some sales in the country. This Jap car maker, which came to us some 15 years back, was recently overtaken by Volkswagen, a relatively new entrant. And it takes no genius to guess that the diesel motor are working wonders for the German car manufacturer.

Audi launches its sports car TT in India at Rs 48.36 lakh

German luxury car maker Audi today launched its sports car TT in India, priced at Rs 48.36 lakh (ex-showroom). The company will start selling the car from June this year and it will be sold as a completely built unit (CBU). The new TT is powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine that can touch a speed of 100 km per hour in just 5.6 seconds. Audi’s Indian Head Mr. Michael Perschke stated that “We are already a major player in the premium sports segment and I am confident that the introduction of the Audi TT will further help us consolidate our leadership position in the sports car segment in the country”. He also told sources that “As this segment is a very niche one, so we are not expecting a very large volume. The total size of this premium sports car market is 200-250 units per year. As we will start despatching the car in the middle of this year, we are hopeful of selling 25-35 units in 2012.” Audi is expecting to sell over 50 units of the TT Coupe in the next year, he added. The company is present in the premium sports car category with models like R8, R8 Spyder and RS5. Audi India has raised prices of its entire range of products in India by up to 14 per cent due to hike in excise and customs duties in the Budget.

Next gen Mercedes S Class to take the position of Maybach

For those who find a Merc S Class not worthy enough to move them around, always have an option to go ahead with the Pullman. Now, the latest news here is that Mercedes plans to launch a new S-class Pullman that will be almost seven metres long. The model will become a part of the new S Class family that is slated to start arriving next year. Many are viewing the upcoming Pullman as a substitute for the ‘not so popular’ Maybach. While the new S arrives next year, the pull man should take a couple of years more to make its debut. It is also being said that the Pullman badge will soon become reserved for the most luxurious of the S Class variants and will be ‘stretched’ enough to compete with many of the stretch limo. The car will seat at least six and will have all the features seen on the Maybach along with having an eight-window variable-tint greenhouse with sunroof and optional armour-plating. The car will offer a wide range of customization options and the features list will include equipments like the Magic Light Control (dynamic LED lighting), Magic Sky Control (variable-tint glass moonroof) and Magic Body Control (camera-based pe-sense damping).

Honda plans 500cc and 1000cc bikes in India

2011 Honda CBR600F Japanese motorcycle major Honda, plans to expand its portfolio with the launch of 500cc, 1000cc and even higher capacity motorcycles for India. But Honda India has not yet disclosed which motorcycle they plan to launch, nor have they disclosed the time frame for these launches. From our point of view, we feel that the Honda CBR600F would be a great bet for India, which has seen two big launches in the 600cc middleweight sportsbike space in the form of the Hyosung GT650R and the Kawasaki Ninja 650R. Perhaps, even the perfect upgrade for Honda CBR250R owners? Makato Yoshii, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Private Limited (HMSI) operating head (south and west), during the launch of the CBR250R in Andhra Pradesh said “We have vehicles from 50 cc to 1,800 cc. However, 50 cc is not preferred here. We will look to launch 500 cc, 1,000 cc and above engine displacement two wheelers in the Indian markets”. In another statement, HMSI CEO and President Yukihiro Aoshima said “We are studying the higher displacement segment and here there are two possibilities open to us. The first is to go for 500 cc and above models where we may look at importing completely built units. But for models less than 500 cc engine displacement, we must study options to assemble them here.”

Hero MotoCorp150cc ‘Impulse’ Dirt Bike Specifications, Images & Price

Hero Honda is now Hero MotoCorp and the company revealed its new identity at a mega event in London, UK. The new Hero MotoCorp logo was launched at London’s o2 arena. Along with the identity, Hero also launched a new 150cc bike – Impulse and an 110cc scooter – Maestro. These will be first products under the new brand. The heartthrob of Indian cinema and youth icon Ranbir Kapoor unveiled the first-of-its-kind 150cc on-road-off-road motorcycle for the Indian market called “Impulse”, leading us to strongly suspect that it is nothing but a rebadged Honda NXR150 BROS which Honda sells in the Brazilian market. No positive nodding on the speculative price is there but we expect it to be priced somewhere between Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 65,000. The launch of “Impulse” creates a new experience in the Indian biking industry. The dual purpose on-road-off-road bike adds to the excitement every young man wants. The feature-loaded bike takes the rider where his excitement wants him to go by giving him freedom from roads. “Impulse” is loaded with versatile features including nitrox-gas filled mono-shock rear suspension which ensures a smooth ride on roughest of terrains, high ground clearance with large dial front wheel with stud-type tread pattern tyres and large front disc brakes which lets the rider traverse any road or any stretch. Additionally, “Impulse” also comes with solid knuckle guards, sporty high mount muffler, large and raised durable sporty fenders, straight pull spokes and motocross seat for the real off-road experience. Digital Combi meter with “Service Due” indicator, clock and digital vertical bar display fuel gauge adds to the overall style which is irresistible. Hero MotoCorp150cc ‘Impulse’ Dirt Bike - Sports Red The specifications and prices of the above were not announced and the officials promise to do the same at the products’ official launch in India, expected to take place later this year. But since we know that the two halves, Hero and Honda, are still in an agreement where Honda is supposed to deliver technical aid till the year 2014. The specifications and shades are expected as below - 6 shades available in Hero MotoCorp Impulse Dirt Bike– * Vibrant Blue Metallic * Leaf Green Metallic * Vibrant Orange * Sports Red * Black Technical Specification of Hero MotoCorp Impulse Dirt Bike- * Engine: 149.2cc, OHC, single cylinder, 4 stroke, air cooled * Maximum Power: 13.8 HP at 8,000 rpm * Maximum Torque: 13.6 Nm at 6,000 rpm * Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1 * Battery: 12V – 5Ah (ES and ESD versions) * Lights: 32/32W * Fuel Tank: 12 liters (2.3 liters reserve) * Engine Oil: 1.2 liters * Transmission: 5-speed * Clutch: Multi oil bath * Lubrication System: Forced by pump trochoidal * Front Suspension: Telescopic fork with 180 mm stroke * Rear Suspension: Mono-shock with 150 mm stroke * Brake Front: 240 mm in diameter (ESD version) * Rear brake: drum with 110 mm diameter * Front Tire: 90/90-19M/C 52P * Rear Tire: 110/90-17M/C 60P * Seat Height: 830 mm * Minimum ground clearance: 244 mm * Dimensions (L x W x H): 2036 X 1138 X 810 mm * Wheelbase: 1353 mm * Dry Weight: 119.1 kg (ESD version)

General Motors develops HCCI petrol engine. Diesel engine like running costs

This surely has to be a ground breaking development. GM demonstrated the homogeneous charge compression ignition or HCCI, for the first time in two driveable concept vehicles, a 2007 Saturn Aura and an Opel Vectra. When combined with direct injection, electric cam phasing, variable valve lift and cylinder pressure sensing, HCCI can provide up to 15 percent fuel savings, while meeting with the emissions norms of the future. “I remember debating this combustion capability when I was in college,” said Tom Stephens, group vice president, GM Powertrain and Quality. “It was just a dream then. Today, using math-based predictive analysis and other tools, we are beginning to see how we can make this technology real. By combining HCCI with other advanced gasoline engine and control technologies we can deliver a good fuel savings value for consumers”. In an integrated engine concept, HCCI along with other enabling advanced technologies approaches the engine efficiency benefit of a diesel, but without the need for expensive lean NOx after-treatment systems. This efficiency is owing to the fuel burning at lower temperatures and reducing the heat energy lost during the combustion process. Also, less carbon dioxide is released because the vehicle”s operation in HCCI mode is more efficient. The HCCI-powered concept vehicles drive like conventional gasoline vehicles but offer up to 15 percent improved fuel efficiency compared to a fuel injected engine. “I am pleased with our engineering team”s progress,” said Stephens. “It is another initiative in GM”s advanced propulsion technology strategy to lessen our dependence on oil. HCCI, direct-injection, variable valve timing and lift, and Active Fuel Management all help improve the fuel economy and performance of our internal combustion engines. I am confident that HCCI will one day have a place within our portfolio of future fuel saving technologies.” Highlights of HCCI technology include: * Diesel-like engine efficiency with substantially reduced after-treatment cost * Builds off proven gasoline direct injection and variable valve actuation technologies * Adaptable to conventional gasoline engine architectures * Requires only conventional automotive exhaust after-treatment * Compatible with all commercially available gasoline and E85 ethanol fuels.

Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2012 winners to get a Skoda

The winners of this year's Femina Miss India beauty pageant also win some elegant Skoda cars This is for the second time that the Czech carmaker has sponsored the Miss India pageant and the event is popular as Pantaloons Femina Miss India Worldwide 2012 (PFMI). However, which Skoda car will find a home in the garages of the winners has not been announced yet. Rumors are in the air that the winners will get to drive home a Skoda Rapid. Last year, the winners were given keys to the smart looking Fabia hatchbacks. There is also a batch of people who think that it is the very popular Laura that will be given to the winners, thanks to this event getting more popularity this time. Personally speaking, Skoda Rapid appears more apt as prize for the winners as it is a car that has been tailor made for India and our country became the first nation to see this car plying on the roads.

2013 Scion FR-S Checks in At $24,390, EPA Releases Mileage Figures

It has gotten a bit hard to refer to the Scion FR-S, because it has different names all over the world. Here in the U.S at least, it will be sold as the Scion FR-S and Subaru BR-Z. They are both nearly identical. In this instance though, we think we’re content to let Toyota get a pass for rebadging. If this all turns out well in terms of sales, we think the development of this car will be a significant event in the history of Toyota. As has been reported (to death over the course of the past few years), Toyota and Subaru co-developed the car. A lot of it was Subaru’s doing, and they are the ones who will actually be manufacturing the cars. Yasayuki Yoshinaga, president of Fuji Heavy Industries (which owns Subaru) said via FT86club.com that the company will produce 100,000 units per year of the car. That includes the Scion FR-S, Subaru BR-Z and Toyota FT-86/86 in all its variations. Globally that 100,000 units doesn’t seem like that much, but it is probably just about right if you have a long-term outlook. There will be more pent up demand at the beginning. Hello price gouging. We’ll see. New today is pricing information for the FR-S. Varying amounts have been bandied about up until now, but nothing official. The car’s MSRP checks in at $24,930, coming in at the higher end of cost estimates for the FR-S. That is the base price, before options and it includes the six-speed manual as standard. Mileage is quoted at 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway for the FR-S equipped with a manual transmission. A good many of FR-S examples sold will probably be equipped with the manual – pricing for the automatic is TBA. With a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder in the FR-S making 200 horsepower, there are definitely other cars you can get that have more power for the money. We don’t think this car’s buyers will care too much about that though – the FR-S has a different allure. Besides, the aftermarket will be happy to oblige with extra power. That is, until Toyota/Subaru decide to strap a turbo or supercharger on there…..

Hyundai, Maruti To Set Up Diesel Engine Plant In India

The decision of the finance ministry to not levy any extra taxes on diesel vehicles has made the car industry in India heave a sigh of relief. Car companies which had put their plans to invest money on diesel engine plants on the backburner have finally decided to go ahead with the agenda. Most notably of all, Hyundai has finalized its plan to set up a diesel engine plant in the country. The new plant, to be set up with an investment of Rs 500 crore, will produce engines for the i20 hatch and the Verna sedan. The i10 is also expected to sport a diesel mill in the near future, and if all goes well, engine for the small car may also be produced locally. The new plant will have a minimum capacity of 1.5 lakh units annually. The engines to be manufactured at the new plant will most likely be 1.1, 1.4 and 1.6 liter units. The company may formally announce the new plant sometime in the next month. The new plant is expected to come up near the company’s existing plant in Chennai or in Gujarat. Another company looking to invest heavily in a diesel engine plant is India’s No.1 car maker Maruti Suzuki. The company which has already made a deal with Fiat for sourcing three lakh diesel engines is also planning a brand new diesel plant in Gurgaon. The new diesel engine plant, which would witness and investment of about Rs 1000 would be capable of producing about 1 lakh engines a year. Maruti, even after ramping up production and losing some market share is struggling to meet the demand for its cars. The new plant will power the current diesel models and some new models which the company may come up in due course. So how effective a ploy is it to set up dedicated plant for diesel engines? The current market share of diesel passenger cars has gone up to an overall percentage of more than 50%. But the massive disparity between petrol and diesel prices is one of the main reasons why that is happening. The government is making no bones about the fact that it wants to decontrol diesel prices very soon, and within a few years, we would see diesel selling at almost the same price as petrol. So would there still be enough demand for diesel cars to justify these heavy investments. Well, one thing is for sure, even with similar pricing, diesel cars do offer advantages like lower running costs owing to much better fuel efficiency and better tractability. And these advantages would make sure that the demand for diesel cars is not going to plummet even if the prices of the dirty fuel are brought closer to the petrol. The market will keep on growing at a reasonable pace, and the demand is only going to grow. Taking all that into consideration, it wouldn’t be such a bad idea then to invest in such plants.