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At the Geneva Motor Show 2012 Infiniti Emerg-E concept developed in Europe

2012-03-10T06:27:00.001-08:00

The luxury division of the Japanese automaker Nissan Infiniti has unveiled the concept model of its mid-engine two-seater sports car, Emerg-E at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show. It is the first Infiniti car that has been developed in Europe and is designed to incorporate most modern hardware and research technology.
With mid-engine twin motor, electric motors delivering a maximum power of 402 bhp the sports car is powered, which is capable of accelerating from a standstill to 60 miles/hour in a matter of just 4 seconds and to 130 miles/hour in just 30 seconds with zero emission within a range of 30 miles. With a combined functioning of the petrol engine and twin electric motors, the CO2 emissions tallies to a meager 55 gm/km.
The compactness of the Emerg-E is measured with a length of 4.464 m and the high performance two-seater embodies four inverters, petrol tank, a new three-cylinder range extending internal combustion engine, lithium-ion battery pack besides twin electric motors effectively draped within aerodynamic and light bodyworks.
The Infiniti Emerg-E symbolizes the brand’s promise of Inspired Performance with the offering of a package of innovative features coupled with high performance delivery.Automobile News

At the Geneva Motor Show Mercedes Benz A Class exhibited

2012-03-10T06:21:00.001-08:00

Mercedes Benz unveiled its fresh and new Mercedes Benz A-Class at the much admired Geneva Motor Show 2012. This is the 3rd generation model that comes with traditional hatchback silhouette that makes it look like a breath of fresh air. The new modular front architecture by Mercedes Benz in its new car is flawless. The latest Mercedes Benz A Class has a much shaped appearance that is accompanied with a chopper front end ruled by broad two slat grille. The angular LED headlamps are coupled with uniquely styled bumper. The bonnet is comparatively short because of the transversely placed engine. The eminent lines right along the flanks with the nicely shaped LED tail lamps at the rear end look picture perfect. The rear windows are angled by a much larger spoiler, which is within the top end of the tail gate.
Coming to the dimensions of new Mercedes Benz A Class, the car has been modified a bit here and there. The length has been increased by 487mm making it 4292mm, the width has gone up by 15mm making it 17800mm wide while the height of the car has been cut down by 163mm. Mr. Zetsche, the boss of Mercedes Benz mentioned that this new car is expected to fetch impressive amount of revenue to the firm. The car is just practical but also technologically sound. The styling has been done properly, the new Mercedes Benz A Class will not only attract families, but will also be successful in alluring young professionals and women as well. Talking about the engine capacity of the new Mercedes Benz A Class, the car will be blessed with a new range of four cylinder engines that would be sourced from its association partner, Renault. With six speed manual transmission this engine will be mated and the seven speed dual clutch unit will be offered as an option.Automobile News

AC 378 GT Zagato in 2012

2012-03-10T06:20:00.001-08:00

It’s been a while since we last heard anything about AC Cars, but they just made quite a comeback with the unveiling of the 378 GT Zagato at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. Their new super car will initially be offered in Europe only, but AC plans to go worldwide soon.
AC and Zagato joined forces for the first time back in 1957 when they created the AC Ace Bristol Zagato one-off. And now their latest creation is as impressive as the first one. If the exterior design looks familiar, it’s because the AC 378 GT Zagato is based on the Zagato Perana Z-One - the concept unveiled at last year’s Geneva Show.
By a GM sourced 6.2-liter V8 engines the 378 GT Zagato is powered tuned to deliver a total of 434 HP. With a total weight of 3230 lbs, the car will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds and will be capable of hitting a top speed of 185 mph.
In Europe, the AC 378 GT Zagato will be priced at €109,990 - about $145,000 at the current exchange rates. The coupe version will be immediately followed by a roadster.
Next to the classic AC Ace Bristol Zagato the AC 378 GT Zagato will be displayed at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours.Automobile News

Technology transfer deal signed by Geely with Volvo

2012-03-10T06:19:00.001-08:00

BEIJING - Geely Automobile said its parent, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, and Volvo have signed a technology transfer deal allowing the Chinese carmaker to enrich its product portfolio and boost its competitiveness.
The deal includes jointly developing electric vehicle and small-car technology, including plug-in vehicles, Geely said in a statement today.
"It's a strategic imperative for us to try our best and unlock the synergies within the group, enhancing our different brands," said Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding Group.
Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby said: "This is an initiative which is set to create additional value for both companies. It will support us in realizing the aspirations to make China our second home market."
Zhejiang Geely bought Swedish automaker Volvo from Ford Motor Co. in 2010, marking China's largest overseas auto acquisition and reflecting the country's rapid rise in the auto world.
In fact, the deal raised fears that a Chinese takeover could tarnish Volvo's image as a long-established upscale brand.
To ease the concerns, Li has stated publicly that Volvo's independence would be maintained. "Geely is Geely, Volvo is Volvo," Li has said on several occasions.
Even though technology sharing between a parent and its subsidiary is not unusual, industry observers warned about operational difficulties in executing the plan.
"Geely is the obvious beneficiary of the deal. But they should be extremely careful in executing the sharing as it could tarnish Volvo's image as a premier brand," said Yale Zhang, president of consultancy Automotive Foresight (Shanghai) Co Ltd.
Volvo is waiting to get approval from the Chinese government to build a Greenfield manufacturing plant in Chengdu in southwest China. The plant would also produce a new brand jointly developed by Volvo and Geely.Automobile News

For the European market New Ford Fiesta ST Production version readies

2012-03-10T06:14:00.001-08:00

The 2012 Geneva Motor Show has witnessed the grand showcase of the production version of the new Ford Fiesta ST at the American auto giant’s magnificent pavilion. The European auto market will get hit by the production version of this subcompact hatchback in the early 2013, which has proved a large demand pool for the earlier Fiesta models.
The Director- Global Performance Vehicles, Ford Motor Company, commented, "We believe Ford customers will be blown away by the new Fiesta ST, and not only by the exhilarating performance but by the styling and specification, too. This dynamic new hot-hatch is undoubtedly our best Fiesta ST to date,"
With a high powered 1.6 Liter EcoBoost engine the new Fiesta ST is loaded that is capable of outpouring a peak power of 180 PS that is 20 percent more output produced than the previous version and pace up from a standstill to over 100 kmph within 7 seconds and can attain a top speed of more than 220 kmph. High performance delivery by the installation of the EcoBoost engine ensures along with higher fuel efficacy and drastically reduced CO2 emissions.
The standard Recaro sports seats is offered for the first time in the Fiesta ST models and a unique safety feature called MyKey is offered to limiting performance and activation of safety devices. The front fascia of the car reveals newly designed wide trapezoidal grille that gives the new Fiesta much bolder and upbeat appearance.Automobile News

At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show New Peugeot 208 showcased

2012-03-10T06:13:00.001-08:00

A France based leading car maker Peugeot Citroen has unveiled all new 208 model at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show. The all new Peugeot 208 model is a successor of the popular 207 model of the company.
The car is much lighter as compared to the previous generation model (carrying about110kg kg less weight) as compared to Peugeot 207 model. The reduction in emission level is 34g/km maker new Peugeot 208 one of the most environment friendly car in its segment. Later this year the car is expected to come out.
The car will soon be rolled-out in the European markets in both 3 and 5 door style models. The company plans to launch this model with two engine options that comprises of a fuel efficient 1.0 liter 3-cylinder that outpours a peak power of 75 hp and a 1.2 liter engine delivering 100hp peak output.
Speaking on the unveiling ceremony of the Peugeot 208, Gilles Vidal, Style Director, Automobiles Peugeot, said, the strength of the 208 lies in its style: it is a real ball of energy. It has the potential to please everyone, like a popular piece of music that touches the human soul regardless of culture."Automobile News

In highest selling cars list Maruti Suzuki to grab first four positions of 2012

2012-03-10T06:10:00.001-08:00

Maruti Suzuki, the largest passenger car manufacturer of India, intends to attain 40% market share of the auto industry in 2012. In the list of top selling cars, the company expects its popular models to occupy the first four positions in the top five.
The compact hatchback of the company Swift has already outperformed the competitors in the Indian market and successfully beating the popular Hyundai i10 in terms of sales. In 2011, Maruti Suzuki had registered huge production loss of around 1, 06,000 units, due to which its market share fell 29%.
However, the car maker regained its position as it managed to increase its market share to 38.5% in February 2012. Due to the launch of new Maruti Swift Dzire and new Maruti Swift, the company was able to make up for the production losses.
The 38.5% market share of Maruti is highest this year among car manufacturers. From April 2011 to February 2012, the company sold 2, 73,000 units of Alto, thereby regaining its position as the leader of the market.
Swift occupied the second position, which was followed by Maruti WagonR with sales of 1, 32,000 units. As per reports, the company has already sold 15,068 units of new Maruti Swift Dzire in February 2012. The car maker is quite confident of occupying even the fifth position by the end of March 2012.
As per the CGM - Marketing, Maruti Suzuki India, Shashank Srivastava, “Last year, out of the five top-selling models, we had four brands. Hopefully, in this financial year, we will still have four brands in top five with Swift among the top three.”Automobile News

In second to Audi BMW's 2011 profit margin comes

2012-03-10T06:05:00.001-08:00

FRANKFURT -- BMW today mentioned about a record profit margin in its core automotive business for 2011. The result nonetheless fell short of matching that of close rival Audi.
BMW's automotive segment boosted earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) as a percentage of revenue to 11.8 percent versus 8.0 percent a year before, but missed the 12.1 percent achieved by VW's premium brand.
An EBIT margin of 11.9 percent for the full year is forecast by the analysts.
BMW, which is fending off efforts by Audi and Mercedes-Benz to take the premium segment's top sales spot, spent 500 million euros in the second half to introduce new versions of the 3-series sedan and 1-series compact.
The automaker expects the new models to help it beat last year's sales record of 1.67 million cars in 2012. Deliveries in 2011 rose 14 percent.
"It's the first mild disappointment in quite a few quarters," Credit Suisse analyst Arndt Ellinghorst said, citing an implied quarterly autos margin of 9.2 percent versus his expectation of 9.8 percent.
"But I believe there's been a lot of kitchen-sinking in order to keep the momentum going for 2012 and surprise the market with earnings growth," he added.
With these record profits, BMW will raise its cash payout to stockholders by a full euro to 2.30 euros per share, which translates to a dividend yield of about 3.3 percent.
BMW will publish its full accounts and is expected to give a forecast for earnings this year during its annual news conference on March 13.
The company has long targeted achieving a sustainable EBIT margin of 8-10 percent in its cars business starting 2012.
CEO Norbert Reithofer reaffirmed in a statement today that BMW planned to grow sales above the 1.67 million vehicles sold to customers last year.
"We expect the past year's record-breaking sales volume performance to be surpassed in 2012," he said.Automobile News

On Indian roads ahead of its launch Nissan Evalia spotted in mid-2012

2012-03-10T06:03:00.001-08:00

In the Indian market Nissan Evalia an upcoming Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV), was recently spotted testing on the Bangalore-Mysore highway. Not covered in any camouflaging, the Nissan Evalia model was on its way to road test with covered badges. The company had early displayed Evalia model at the Delhi International Auto Expo in the month of January 2012, where the company had hinted towards its early launch in India.
As per the market speculations, the recently spotted Evalia is likely to be the production version of the car, which is under final road testing in India. The MUV is expected to hit the Indian roads by August 2012.
Nissan Evalia is based on its sibling Nissan NV200 (seven seater vehicle), and will be competing with the likes of Toyota Innova, Tata Aria, Mahindra Xylo and Maruti’s upcoming Ertiga MUV.
The car is tend to be spacious than any other vehicle available in this segment in India. Moreover, the vehicle is blessed with high ground clearance and higher position for driver, making it safer as compared to other vehicles. It is expected to come powered by a 1.5L DCi engine in the Indian market, and will possible be shelved in the price range of Rs 7 to 9 lakh.Automobile News

To get 1.6 liter I-DTEC turbo diesel engine from Honda, Civic is to be the first model

2012-03-10T06:00:00.001-08:00

To its Earth Dreams Project Honda Motors has given the top most priority, which has been going on at its R&D center Japan for some time now. This project comprise of development of new range of turbo diesel engine, which will be used by Honda in its future products 2012 Honda Civic sedan is expected to be the first model from Honda to be powered with this new diesel engine. This 1.6 litre i-DTEC turbo diesel engine will pump out 120 BHP of peak power at 4000 rpm along with 300 Nm of peak torque at 2000 rpm. It is the top-class engine that has been introduced by Honda so far taking into account i-DTEC engine displacement. Besides this, the latest 1.6 litre of i-DTEC turbo diesel engine gives out low CO2, which comes out to be 95 grams per kilometer.
This new engine range by Honda is said to be the lightest aluminum open deck 1.6 litre of diesel engine in the entire world. Apparently, this 1.6 litre i-DTEC turbo diesel engine will be developed at Honda’s United Kingdom plant during the end of 2012. In the meantime, one could expect this diesel engine to arrive in India with 2012 Honda Civic diesel as Honda is surely to be in great need of diesel variants in its assortment of cars offered in India. The Indian car market has a great demand for diesel cars right now, all thanks to the sky rocketing petrol prices in India. Therefore, introducing a diesel car in India will definitely fetch ample of revenue for the firm.Automobile News

In Consumer Reports testing Fisker Karma car dies

2012-03-09T06:53:00.001-08:00

DETROIT -- During Consumer Reports speed testing a $100,000-plus Fisker Automotive luxury car died for reasons that are still unknown, leaving the struggling electric car startup with another blow to its image.
"It is a little disconcerting that you pay that amount of money for a car and it lasts basically 180 miles before going wrong," David Champion, senior director for the magazine's automotive test center said.
Fisker has benefited from the publicity generated when actor Leonardo DiCaprio was handed the first Karma last summer and pop idol Justin Bieber received one as a gift this month.
The breakdown of the Consumer Reports car is more bad news for a company that already recalled some Karma. Fisker also has changed its CEO and halted production over the past month as it seeks to renegotiate the terms of a $529 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Champion said since the magazine buys the cars it tests anonymously the company may not know.
In a statement, Fisker said it was assessing the source of the problem that caused its Karma plug-in hybrid to fail. Fisker dispatched two engineers Wednesday night to examine the car.
"It's important to note that with more than 400 Fisker Karma sedans already on the road in the U.S., we also have many satisfied customers who are enjoying daily commutes in their cars," Fisker said in the statement.Automobile News

Koenigsegg Agera R in 2013

2012-03-09T06:50:00.001-08:00

It is determined by Koenigsegg to take the supremacy out of Bugatti’s hands. After it is officially launched in 2011, the Agera R is entering the 2013 model year as a more powerful sports car with lots of improvements. Koenigsegg is put in a power improvement of 25 HP that will make the car capable of hitting a top speed of 273 mph.
The in-house developed 5.0-liter V8 with twin turbos now uses nano-surfaced cylinder sleeves, from ANS, to lessen friction and fuel consumption. As a result, the Agera R will develop a total of 1,140 HP up from 1,115 HP. The Agera R is fitted with a unique Triplex suspension and a new, lighter rear exhaust section.
Aside from the bump in performance, the Agera R also comes with the world’s first hollow, one piece, super light carbon fiber wheel, using a proprietary method developed by Koenigsegg named Air core Technology.Automobile News

At 2012 Geneva Motor Show New Audi A3 hatchback unveiled

2012-03-09T06:49:00.001-08:00

Audi finally presented its A3 at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show on 6th March, 2012. The company has developed this car on the MQB platform, which was earlier used for manufacturing Audi Q3. On the front section of this car Single-frame radiator grille finds its place, which also has LED daytime running lamps and Xenon headlamps. Tail lamps of the car also have diffuser insert and are also fitted with LED. Along with 'big car' technology, the new hatchback features premium interiors.
The luxury car maker has provided 1.4 litre, 1.8 litre, and 2.0 litre TDI engines in the 2012 Audi A3, which delivers an output of 120 hp, 180 hp and 143 hp, respectively. The 7-speed dual clutch transmission is fitted with the 1.8-litre TFSI engine on other hand a 6-speed manual gearbox will be added in the models running on the other two engines. The company also disclosed that variant with all-wheel drive system and 1.4 litre TFSI engine will be available by the end of this year. Irrespective of the engine options, power will be sent to the front wheels of the vehicle. McPherson strut is provided for the front section, whereas the rear end has multi-link suspension.
The 1.4 TFSI variant of A3 weights 1,175 kg and the company claims to have reduced its weight by 80kg. In order to lessen the weight of the vehicle, the car maker has made maximum use of aluminium for the bonnet and front wings. MMI navigation in addition to the system with a touchpad is the main highlight of the interiors.
Other advanced features of the car include park assist, radar-assisted adaptive cruise control, traffic sign detection, pre sense safety system and active lane assist. However, A3 specific Bang & Olufsen audio system has been kept as an optional feature. Against the 350 litre boot space of the previous model, new Audi A3 has offers 365 litres of space in the rear. As per Audi, the new A3 will be retailed in UK by September 2012 at a price tag of around £19,000.Automobile News

Dealership expansion accelerated by Jaguar Land Rover in 2012

2012-03-09T06:43:00.001-08:00

Jaguar Land Rover is constantly accelerating its dealership expansion program, which started with the first showroom in Mumbai in mid-2009. At present the company has fifteen operational outlets in thirteen cities and has plans to expand this to twenty four outlets by the end of 2012. The latest dealership, a flagship facility, was opened today in a high end part of Gurgaon, Haryana, and increased the number of outlets in the Delhi region to three. Spanning three floors and covering 12,000 square feet, the new dealership boasts impressive facilities such as two floors of car displays, an extensive customer lounge and vast customer parking.
Located in SCO 316, Sector 29, Gurgaon, the facility is operated by AMP Motors who are a well-established Jaguar and Land Rover dealer in this region. The dealership will provide customers with access to the full range of Jaguar products including the XJ, XF, XFR, XKR and the fastest and most powerful production sports car Jaguar has ever built – the new Jaguar XKR-S. For Land Rover, it will offer the Freelander 2, Discovery 4, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover and the award winning new Range Rover Evoque.
Rohit Suri, Head of Premier Car Division, Jaguar Land Rover India, said "Since our first showroom in June 2009, we are extremely pleased with the response we have received to our products and have accelerated the pace of our dealership expansion programme across India. The expansion of our dealership network is one of the pillars in the strategy to continue growing sales in the Indian market. The opening of this superb facility in Gurgaon extends our reach even further and will give customers a high level of premium service that is expected from our brands."Automobile News

On expansion plans to invest Rs 1,200 crore by Hero Motocorp

2012-03-09T06:38:00.001-08:00

India’s main two-wheeler Hero Moto Corp is reportedly expected to announce plans to set up its fourth plant in Gujarat in March itself, even as talks speed up for a fifth facility likely at Karnataka. It was reported that apart from feeding growing local demand, additional capacity would help the two-wheeler market leader to meet its $1 billion export target by 2020.
The report stated that in a deal that has already been “finalised with the Gujarat Government,” the company is likely to invest about Rs 1,200 crore for a two-million-unit capacity plant set up over two phases. Chosen because of the proximity to ports, the location is a 300-acre plot close to General Motors' car plant in Halol, Central Gujarat. The report quoted Pawan Munjal, Managing Director & CEO of Hero MotoCorp as saying “Within this month, I should be making the announcement for the new plant. It will get to those levels (as Haridwar plant's 2.5 million unit annual capacity), but will have modular capacities.”
According to the report, for the fifth plant expected to focus on the south Indian market, a 500-acre plot near Tata Motors' plant at Dharwad, Karnataka, has been offered by the Karnataka Government. This comes after months of discussions that company officials reportedly held with many States such as Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. While the fresh capacity is expected to come only by about 2014 – the same time when Hero's first self-developed models are launched, the company is also expanding yearly production beyond seven million units at existing plants in Haridwar, Gurgaon and Dharuhera. This will help it stay ahead of the Indian two-wheeler industry, which is set to grow at a CAGR of 14 per cent over the next five years. Munjal said that, “Some investments are being made at existing plants, so capacity should go up to over 7.4 million units in the existing operations. We're also working on a centre for after markets parts.”Automobile news

Plan to launch four new SUVs by Ssangyong by 2015

2012-03-09T06:36:00.001-08:00

The Indian utility maker Mahindra & Mahindra- owned Ssangyong Motor Company (SMC) is planning to introduce four new sports utility vehicles for various global markets by 2015. The Korean arm of the Indian firm is also looking to introduce a compact SUV in India in the sub 4 meter range. It unveiled a concept SUV - XIV 2 at the ongoing Geneva Auto Show and will launch this model within next four years.
The reports quoted SsangYong Motor Company President and CEO Yoo II Lee as saying "After Mahindra took over, the company is looking to aggressively expand its product portfolio. As part of this plan, we will launch four new SUVs by 2015." On the new concept XIV 2, he said it will go for commercial production in 2015 and will be launched in 25-40 different regions across the globe. "In India, we will launch this concept in a modified version. We will produce it as a compact SUV targeting length of less than 4 meters to avail the excise duty benefit," Lee said.
The reports said that, as per India government's policy, small cars with length of up to 4 metres and engine capacity of 1,200-cc for petrol and 1,500-cc for diesel attract 10 per cent excise duty. On the other hand, those longer than 4 metres and engine capacity of over 1,200 cc for petrol and over 1,500 cc for diesel attract excise duty at the rate of 22 per cent, plus Rs 15,000. Last year Mahindra & Mahindra had completed acquisition of 70 per cent stake in SsangYong for USD 463 million.Automobile News

Up to 100 kilometer per liter deliver Megapixel says Tata Motors

2012-03-09T06:35:00.001-08:00

With Electric Vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles becoming a major segment in world automotive segments, the Indian automobile major Tata Motors is reportedly trying to up the game. It was said that Tata Motors is aiming to manufacture a car, Tata Megapixel that can deliver up to 100 kilometer from a litre of fuel by using a unique combination of technology. At the Geneva Motor Show the company presented the Megapixel.
It was reported that the company, which surprised the world with 'Rs 1 lakh car' Nano, today unveiled the concept vehicle which is a four-seater global range extended electric vehicle (REEV) meant for city driving. The new innovation from the house of Tata’s is likely to be commercially launched in around three years from now. Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata was quoted as saying "Realistically such products take at least 3 years to develop. There are lots of electric technologies to be developed, besides many other things."
As mentioned in the reports, the vehicle combines a lithium ion phosphate battery and an on-board petrol engine generator for recharging on the move. The company said that the Tata Megapixel offers a range of up to 900 km (with a single tank of fuel) and fuel economy of 100 km/litre (under battery only power). It also said the car will have CO2 emission of "just 22 gm/km". Last year at the 81st Geneva Motor Show, Tata Motors had unveiled Tata Pixel, a city car concept for Europe. Pixel is yet to be commercially launched, it was mentioned.Automobile News

Third generation Outlander introduced by Mitsubishi at Geneva Motor Show

2012-03-09T06:33:00.001-08:00

The sixth largest Japanese automobile manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, unveiled its third generation premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) ‘Outlander’ at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The company confirmed that the new SUV will be offered in two drive options, two-wheel-drive and four-wheel drive. Dimensions of the new Outlander have been kept identical to those of the existing model. As per Mitsubishi, the face lifted version of Outlander will be available by this summer in UK.
The Japanese car maker offers two engine options in the car, 2.0 litre petrol units and 2.2 litre DI-DC diesel motor. The diesel engine has the potential to churn out maximum power of 174.5 bhp along with impressive torque. The powerful motor of this car will be further assisted by a new six speed automatic transmission system that offers easy and smooth switching of gears. An advanced feature packed in the new Mitsubishi Outlander is 'eco-friendly driving system' that indicates whether the driver is handling the car with maximum efficiency or not. Automatic start/stop function will be provided in some models of this vehicle as per company information.
Although the new Outlander is quite simple in design like its previous model, the front section is provided with extremely narrow headlights and squashed chrome grille to enhance its appeal. The interiors of car boast of numerous comfort features that add to the convenience of passengers. In addition to this, the interiors of Outlander showcase the traditional look of Mitsubishi cars, with easy-to-read displays and ergonomic steering wheel controls.
Moreover, Mitsubishi has also equipped advanced safety equipment in the car so that it ensures utmost safety of the passengers. These advancements include collision mitigating braking system, lane departure warning system and a power tailgate. The company has also equipped an adaptive cruise control system within the new Outlander, which helps it maintain a safe distance from the vehicles ahead of it. In 2013, the company plans to launch a new plug-in hybrid version of Outlander, which will have less CO2 emissions at around 50 g/km over a distance of 800 km.Automobile News

With online tie-in Ford launches 'Escape Routes' a TV show

2012-03-09T06:32:00.001-08:00

DETROIT -- Ford brand is venturing into the reality television production business with a new show called “Escape Routes” that will promote the 2013 Escape crossover, which arrives in dealerships this May.
Starting March 31, the series will air for six consecutive weeks at 8 p.m. ET Saturday nights on NBC and at 11 p.m. on a Hispanic network called mun2. The interactive series, which will invite fans to participate online, will feature six teams of two participating in a road-trip competition driving Escapes. Ford announced plans earlier today.
The teams will perform various tasks and interact with online followers. At each stop, the teams will interact with followers online to “tap into the fabric of the local culture,” the company said in a press release.
Dealers in each city will have the opportunity for advertising tie-ins, says Crystal Worthem, Ford brand content and alliance manager. The cities are: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York, Miami and Atlanta.
“Escape Routes” is the latest extension of Ford’s aggressive push into social media marketing, a campaign being spearheaded by Jim Farley, group vice president of global marketing sales and service. Earlier efforts included the Fiesta Movement from 2010 and Focus Rally from 2011. The difference is that those two campaigns were online only. “Escape Routes” will air on a prime time network television.Automobile News

Small car B-MAX unveiled by Ford at Geneva, plans to launch in India soon

2012-03-09T06:30:00.001-08:00

The US based leading car maker Ford said when unveiled its much talked about small car B-MAX at the Geneva Motor Show. The company plans to roll-out this car in a number of emerging markets across the world that includes India too.
Speaking to the reporters on the unveiling ceremony of the car at the Geneva Motor Show, Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally said, "This is a small car for many markets and it will go on production later this year. It has potential in all small car market."
While answering a query related to the car’s launch in the Indian market, Mr. Mulally said that this is a small car for many markets and it will go on production later this year. It has potential in all small car market. He added that the all new B-MAX small car may be included in the company’s planned-up eight new products for the Indian market by middle of this decade.
The Ford B-MAX really challenges traditional small car thinking, and pioneers a concept not attempted by any other manufacturers. It does things which other vehicles simply cannot do. It is believed that the Ford B-MAX will have a major impact on the market for compact cars.”Automobile News

Bentley EXP 9F 4WD luxury SUV revealed prior to Geneva Motor Show

2012-03-07T06:41:00.001-08:00

Bentley has introduced the highly awaited EXP 9F just before the Geneva Motor Show on 5th March 2012. Even though many other British-designed concept cars are ready to be unveiled at the show, the EXP 9F has special significance of its own. This off-roader is equipped with a twin-turbo W-12 engine that can deliver output of 600 hp and 800 Nm of torque. As per the company, the EXP 9F will find a place amongst the fastest cars of its segment.
For the cockpit of the off-roader, the luxury car maker has used hard wearing leather. The company has kept the driver’s eye-point quite high in EXP 9F akin to the Range Rover's. However, height of the roof has been kept low in order to provide a sporty look. With a large wheelbase of 200 mm more than that of Range Rover, the company assures maximum legroom to all passengers seated in the car. The next generation 4x4s developed by Porsche, Audi and VW (the brands belonging to the Volkswagen family) will also share the technical features of Bentley EXP 9F.
Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley’s CEO, was the engineering chief at Porsche when the company designed the Cayenne 4x4. He is certain that the new concept will be profitable for the car maker. He said, "We did the Cayenne for a business case of 20,000 cars per year. It now sells 60,000." According to him, the automobile company will earn £130-150,000 selling 3,500 units of Bentley cars if the production is approved.
As per company reports, there are no large projects for the engineers at present. However, if the SUV gets the approval, then the process to make it ready by 2016 will begin, thereby boosting sales in coming times. Two major car ranges, namely Continental coupé and convertible and Mulsanne limousine, have been recently renewed by the car maker.Automobile News

Mercury Car Rentals (Avis India) wins Category 1 Tourist Transport Operator award

2012-03-07T06:39:00.001-08:00

Mercury Car Rentals Ltd (Avis India), India’s leading premium car rental services provider, has been conferred the 1st Prize in Category I for ‘Tourist Transport Operator’ for the year 2010– 2011 at the prestigious National Tourism Awards ceremony held at New Delhi. The award conferred by the Honorable President of India, Pratibha Devi Singh Patil comes to Avis India in recognition of its commitment to excellence. This is the second time that the company is winning this prestigious honour. Also present at the occasion were Subodh Kant Sahai, Honorable Minister for Tourism & Sultan Ahmed, Honorable Union Minister for State of Tourism.
Instituted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the National Tourism Awards are the most coveted awards in the travel and tourism industry in India and are presented annually, in various segments of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. These awards are presented to State Governments / Union Territories, classified hotels, heritage hotels, approved travel agents, tour operators and tourist transport operators, individuals and other private organizations in recognition of their performance in their respective fields and also to encourage healthy competition with an aim to promote tourism.
Speaking at the occasion, Sunil Gupta, CEO, Avis India said, “We are delighted to receive the prestigious National Tourism Award and are thankful to the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This motivates us to redouble our endeavors in providing the highest international quality of service to our customers, based on continuous investment in technology, training and fleet. This enables us to provide a best-in-class services focused on reliability, safety & compliances.
The selection of the awardees is made by committees constituted for the purpose and the decision of the Ministry of Tourism is final and binding. Mercury Car Rentals Pvt ltd (Avis India), which has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions has also recently been awarded “Asia’s Leading Car Hire” Title For the 6th Year at Regional World Travel Awards. Automobile News

2012 Lamborghini Aventador by Mansory

2012-03-07T06:38:00.001-08:00

Mansory’s first tuning package for the Geneva Motor Show was based on a 2012 McLaren MP4-12C and was something that could definitely allow us to appreciate the finesse of Mansory’s skills. Their package for the Lamborghini Aventador, however, is a completely different story. The standard Aventador is an amazing supercar, but somehow the tuner has managed to ruin that amazing image by adding way too much carbon fiber and way too many redesigned body parts.
First and foremost, the Lamborghini Aventador by Mansory has way too much carbon fiber for our liking, on both the outside of the car as well as the inside, but it also received a series of elements that don’t really fit in with the super car’s luscious exterior. Mansory put in over-sized inlet ducts on the front of the car, a new front apron, a new front lip, new front wings, and a newly designed bonnet.

What we do like on the exterior are the 20" wheels and the exquisite engine boost provided by the tuner. The V12 engine’s output has been increased from the standard 700 HP 8,250 rpm and 509 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm to 754 HP at 8,300rpm and 553 lbs-ft at 6,000rpm. As a result, the car will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and up to a top speed of 220 mph - a little 3mph improvement compared to the standard Aventador.Automobile News

At the 82nd Geneva Motor Show Tata displayed Megapixel concept

2012-03-07T06:37:00.001-08:00

Tata Motors today presented at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show the Tata Megapixel, a new four-seater city-smart global range extended electric vehicle (REEV) concept for the performance-seeking and environment-conscious motorist anywhere in the world. Combining a lithium ion phosphate battery and an on-board petrol engine generator for recharging on the move, the Tata Megapixel offers a range of up to 900 km (with a single tank of fuel), path-breaking CO2 emission of just 22 gm / km and fuel economy of 100 km / litre (under battery only power).
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Prakash M. Telang, Managing Director - India Operations, Tata Motors, said, “The Tata Megapixel, developed by our design centres in India, the UK and Italy, is our idea of a city car for discerning motorists in any megacity of the world. It is a result of the progress we have made on the Tata Pixel, displayed last year, and also denotes the company’s future design direction.” The class-leading ‘Zero Turn’ drive system of the Tata Pixel (shown at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show) has been taken to an even higher level of manoeuvrability in the Tata Megapixel.
The car’s electric drive has four independent electric motors, one at each wheel. When parking, the electric hub motors drive the wheels in opposite directions, while the front wheels are turned at an acute angle, enabling an exceptional 2.8 metre turning radius. The at-home charging system is an as innovative induction charging system. The car has simply to be parked over the induction pad for charging to begin.
The Tata Megapixel is as distinctive in elegantly melding Indian uniqueness – in colours, graphic themes or materials – with global styling preferences. The integrated lamp and grille graphics sweep back over the front wheel arches to render a dynamic front end. It is echoed on the panoramic roof, creating a harmony between sun & shade and sense of interior space.
The floating C-pillar and wrap-around belt line finisher integrate perfectly with the sculpted body surface, flowing freely to the rear and encapsulating the 5-spoke wheel design. A double-sliding door system and the car’s B-pillar less design make entry/exit easy, besides superb visibility. The battery layout and hub motors maximize the interior package. So, the Tata Megapixel comfortably accommodates four adults with luggage. The front seats are cantilevered on the central tunnel, releasing floor space for additional storage. Light leather trims and rose metal details accentuate the joyous marriage of richness of tradition and innovativeness of technology.
This fusion is heightened by an advanced human machine interface (HMI). The console docking point can connect a smart phone with the car. The built-in large touchscreen HMI, at the centre of the instrument panel, thus becomes a common access point for the repertoire of the smart device and for controlling the functions of the car, like temperature, ventilation, driving modes and performance. Tata Motors’ displays also include the new generation Tata Safari Storme SUV, the Tata Aria crossover, the Tata Indigo Manza sedan and the Tata Indica Vista hatchback.Automobile News

Used-vehicle price rise seen mild if gas prices peak at $4/gal

2012-03-07T06:36:00.001-08:00

Rising gasoline prices are expected to peak at about $4 per gallon in May and will produce a "mild" effect on used-vehicle prices, analysts at NADA Used Car Guides say in a report released Tuesday.
But if tensions over Iran's nuclear program escalate into military action, "then it would be difficult to make a prediction" about how high gasoline prices would go and the effect on used-vehicle prices, says Larry Dixon, an analyst at the company.
Dixon says escalating gasoline prices are being pushed by the threat of a military conflict that would disrupt oil supplies rather than a loss of oil production.
"We are always making vehicle price adjustments based, in part, on our expectations for the price of gasoline," he adds.
Dixon said the company's economic-modeling scenarios do not factor in possible military action with Iran.Automobile News