SkodaAuto India, a fully owned subsidiary of SkodaAuto a.s., Czech Republic and one of the most promising automobile companies in India, today rolled out the 25000th Fabia ever built in India from Volkswagen Group’s facility located at Chakan, Pune. The event was even more significant with the presence of Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland, Chairman of Board of Directors of SkodaAuto a.s. and the new Volkswagen Group Chief Representative India & President and Managing Director Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd, Dr. Frank Loeschmann. In his first visit to India as the new Chairman of Board, Dr. Vahland’s reaffirmed India’s status as one of the most important markets in Skoda Auto’s global growth story. The visit also re-iterates the company’s commitment to dig deep into this market and realize its full potential.

Speaking on India’s potential Prof. Dr. Vahland, Chairman of Board of Directors of Skoda Auto a.s. said “India has contributed significantly to Skoda’s growth as a global brand. Our products have captured the imagination of Indian consumers for years now. We stand by our commitment to our Indian consumers and promise to continuously offer products which will suit their growing lifestyle. Indian market has been earmarked as an integral part of our global growth strategy. We plan to achieve this aggressively by extending product portfolio to get to new segments resulting in profitable growth.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Frank Löschmann, Volkswagen Group India, said, It gives me great pleasure to welcome Prof. Dr. Winfried Vahland to the Volkswagen India Chakan plant, which is one of the most modern plants of the Volkswagen Group worldwide. Today, we are proud to roll out the 25,000th Skoda Fabia from our state-of-the-art factory. This marks another milestone in the history of Volkswagen Group India since the start of production in the plant with the Skoda Fabia from May, 2009. I am most delighted to be here today and wish to be a part of many more such historic occasions.”

Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland’s visit follows the successful launch of the new Skoda Fabia. The new Fabia with its complete new package offering has garnered tremendous consumer response making a significant impact in its segment.

SkodaAuto India has recorded a significant growth of 36.6% in sales for the year 2010 till date over the year 2009. Skoda is in its 10th year of operations in India, since November 2001 and has sold over 94500 units. Skoda currently has 3 models on sale in India – Skoda Superb, Skoda Laura and Skoda Fabia, the 4th model the Yeti will soon be added in its portfolio.

Source: SkodaAuto India

Bajaj Auto introduced a new Metallic Orange colour for Bajaj Pulsar Range of Bikes. Currently Bajaj Pulsar bikes are available in four colours -silver, black, red and blue. New Metallic Orange colour for Bajaj Pulsar Bikes is because of Diwali festival ahead.

"Pulsar has proven its performance both on the road and on the sales charts as well as. It is by far the leading sports machine in India with a consistent 50 per cent market share beating its Indian and Japanese competitors by a wide margin. To add more zest to the Pulsar, we have introduced a new two tone orange color that is definitely going to make heads turn. The color is specifically for the young Pulsar lovers and shows a good spectrum from a fresh yellowish orange in the sunlight to a deep, reddish orange in the shade adds a fresh new perspective to the bike," said S Sridhar, president of Motorcycle Business, Bajaj Auto Ltd.

The new Metallic Orange colour is available on the following Bajaj Pulsar models:

Bajaj Pulsar 180

Bajaj Pulsar 220

Bajaj Pulsar 220F

The new FZ limited edition variants sport rich and smart graphics with the signature Yamaha looks making sure that the customer feels the pride of ownership

Riding on the grand success of its muscular and hottest-looking bikes of the FZ Series – FZ, FZ-S and Fazer, India Yamaha Motor has announced the launch of FZ Series Limited Edition bikes under the Midnight Special version. Since the launch of FZ series in 2008, these bikes have gained immense popularity amongst youngsters. The new FZ limited edition variants sport rich and smart graphics with the signature Yamaha looks making sure that the customer feels the pride of ownership.

As the version name 'Midnight Special' suggests, the bikes will be available in an all black color concept with golden alloy wheel highlighting the exclusive looks of the machines. Yamaha will produce only 1,000 units of each of FZ, FZ-S & Fazer models and the aluminum plate on the fuel tank will bear the vehicle serial number (1-1000) to make the bike look as exclusive as the customer himself.

The limited edition Fazer will also carry the signature of the Yamaha brand ambassador of India John Abraham crafted in golden letters on the front cowl of the bike. Speaking on the FZ Series Limited Edition bikes launch, Pankaj Dubey, National Business Head, India Yamaha Motor said, "Keeping in mind the festive season, we are launching Limited Edition FZ Series bikes and are confident that these too will be an instant hit among the biking enthusiasts. We have kept the essence of FZ series bikes intact while altering the aesthetics to exemplify the masculine feeling these tough machines are known for. The rich and sporty graphics will take the macho image to its next level."

FZ series bikes are designed & engineered with the potential for active and even aggressive enjoyment of around-town street-riding and styling that brings pride of ownership. The strategically use of the sporty graphics and vibrancy of colors on these bikes have been done keeping in mind the end user and is customized exclusively to cater to his needs. The target demographic is 18-25 year old male who is brand conscious, stylish & confident and has an active mindset abd inclination towards good things in life.

The limited edition Midnight Special Price of Fazer, FZ-S & FZ16 models will be available at ex-showroom prices (Delhi) of Rs. 74,500 /-, Rs. 69,500/- and Rs. 67,500 /- respectively.

Coutsey: Yamaha India

A testosterone packed 300 cc bike with cool retro styling, the Mojo blends the best of global motorcycle technology and design. It is a handcrafted machine and a one of its kind lifestyle motorcycle which will soon go into production. Mahindra 2 Wheelers has, in fact, devised a unique marketing and promotion strategy for this ultimate performance bike which will be revealed when the bike will be available for sale in the next 3-4 months.

Mahindra Mojo Price & Features:

- Available in Derby Red, Colt Black, Equus Blue, Buckskin Yellow & Ranch Green

- Handcrafted, one of its kind

- Mahindra Mojo Price at Rs 1.75 lakh (ex showroom Pune)

- Blends cool retro styling with best of global technology & design - 4 Valve DOHC 300 cc power plant

- Sports aerodynamic 'tear drop' shape and a classic gold frame assembly with twin headlamp - Leading European vendors – Ducati Energia, Paioli & Pirelli (Italy), J Juan (Spain) – contribute to the making of the Mojo

- Available in red and black with decal customization options

The Mahindra Stallio incorporates a convenient, pro touch electric start which allows you to take off at the touch of a button, even in heavy traffic conditions. The multi reflector headlamp coupled with LED lighting with clear lens indicators in the headlamp, tail lamps and pilot lamps enhance front and rear visibility, making night riding a safe experience. These LED lights are more resistant to failures from vibration, generate almost no heat and consume very little power.

Mahindra Stallio Price & Features:

- Available in two variants, Mahindra Stallio Price at Rs 44,699/- for cast alloy wheels with self start, fully digital console, Mahindra Stallio Price at Rs 41,199/- for spoke wheels with kick start (ex showroom Pune)

- 4 years manufacturer's warranty

- Biking can now be fun-filled and stylish - offers features that add to style thereby creating a new niche

- Multimedia marketing campaign featuring Aamir Khan

World class Italian design, raw power, adrenaline and speed. India's bikers can look forward to all this and much more as Mahindra 2 Wheelers' Stallio and Mojo motorcycles made their debut at a high voltage launch in Mumbai today.

"In the last twelve months Mahindra 2 Wheelers has achieved a milestone by registering a sale of 1.5 lac units – a clear validation of the success of our niche PowerScooters strategy. We are now all geared up to redefine the biking experience in India with the Stallio and the Mojo which are a potent blend of global technology and innovation and will take the category to the next level," said Mr. Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra Group.

"These world class bikes are worthy additions to the Mahindra 2 Wheelers product portfolio and are part of our commitment to establish a robust, end-to-end two wheeler business in every segment of the industry," said Mr. Anoop Mathur, President Two Wheeler Sector and Member of the Group Executive Board, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

"Both bikes incorporate world class R&D and design elements from our Bologna, Italy based design house, Engines Engineering and are best suited for Indian biking conditions.

The Stallio offers a host of features unheard of in its segment and is ideal for the avant-garde young executive or businessman who desires a rugged and reliable yet stylish bike. We are delighted to have Aamir Khan, the brand ambassador for the Stallio, present at the launch today, as he personifies Mahindra's can do spirit, capturing the imagination of the masses. The Mojo is a performance oriented, power packed bike and is the ultimate machine for motorcycle enthusiasts who are passionate about biking," he added.

The Stallio was unveiled by actor, producer and director, Aamir Khan, whose thought provoking movies have served to both entertain and inspire an entire generation of young Indians.

"Mahindra is a solid company with very strong and long standing goodwill. The bike that the Mahindra Group is launching, the Stallio, is a stylish bike offering consumers a great sense of comfort. It's a complete bike that offers safety, style and peace of mind. I am sure it will soon be one of India's iconic brands. I am very pleased to be associated with the Mahindras and the Stallio," said Aamir.

The Mahindra Stallio is available in two variants – Self Start / Cast Alloy wheels / Digital Console and Kick Start / spoke wheels which are available at Rs.44,699/- and 41,199/- (ex showroom Pune), respectively, while the Mahindra Mojo is priced at Rs. 1.75 lac/- (ex showroom Pune). The Stallio will be available at 370 Mahindra 2 Wheelers dealerships across the country. The Stallio comes with a four year manufacturer's warranty. The distribution model for Mojo will be different and therefore, would be available only in select outlets.

The Mahindra Stallio and Mojo are all set to storm the motorcycle segment with their sleek, sporty contours, Italian styling and comfort. The bikes incorporate design elements from the Italian boutique design house, Engines Engineering which has worked for marques such as Ducati, MV Augusta and Benelli.

Mahindra Stallio:

Biking will soon take on a whole new dimension with this powerful steed. The Mahindra Stallio is a tough and durable bike with several stylish features which puts it in a distinct motorcycling segment. These include digital speedometer, powerful LED tail lamps, pilot LED lamps and a fully flush fuel tank cap.

The Mahindra Stallio incorporates a convenient, pro touch electric start which allows you to take off at the touch of a button, even in heavy traffic conditions. The multi reflector headlamp coupled with LED lighting with clear lens indicators in the headlamp, tail lamps and pilot lamps enhance front and rear visibility, making night riding a safe experience. These LED lights are more resistant to failures from vibration, generate almost no heat and consume very little power.

The bike's chassis features a rugged, double cradle frame, ensuring greater stability and less possibility of deformation in future. The superior braking system, more responsive controls that perform well in a variety of conditions, including water and mud, makes the Stallio a very safe bike. The sturdy rear grab rail offers the pillion rider a firm grip, ensuring safety.

The large, fully digital display – the first in this segment - comes equipped with a speedometer, fuel gauge, tachometer and clock. It also gives you an idea of the distance travelled in one trip. The Stallio's visor features a sharp, inverted arrow design which is sure to stop traffic when you zoom past. This nifty bike sports cool racing style alloy wheels which are strong and lightweight. They not only provide more stability at corners but also have better tolerance to shocks and ensure good heat dissipation. These trendy alloys are complemented by class leading wheel base of 1265 mm which provide a stable ride and good ground clearance. The fuel tank cap blends seamlessly with the body of the bike, further adding to its style quotient.

The Mahindra Stallio is available in a choice of five shades – Derby Red, Colt Black, Equus Blue, Buckskin Yellow and Ranch Green.

Mahindra Mojo 300cc Bike:

Think Flower Power. Think groovy classic style but with a contemporary twist. Think Mahindra Mojo.

A testosterone packed 300 cc bike with cool retro styling, the Mojo blends the best of global motorcycle technology and design. It is a handcrafted machine and a one of its kind lifestyle motorcycle which will soon go into production. Mahindra 2 Wheelers has, in fact, devised a unique marketing and promotion strategy for this ultimate performance bike which will be revealed when the bike will be available for sale in the next 3-4 months.

This modern classic is driven by a 4V DOHC engine which offers peak power of 26 BHP @ 8500 rpm and maximum torque of 24 Nm @ 7000 rpm, making it a performance biker's dream come true. It also features a 6 speed gearbox, as opposed to the regular 5 speed gearbox found amongst its peers, along with a sporty dual exhaust for the right propulsion.

The Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system has been developed by Ducati Energia of Italy. In an industry first, the Mojo sports inverted front shock absorbers developed by Paioli of Italy, which ensures superior shock absorbing ability at high speeds. This is complemented by a horizontally mounted mono shox at the rear, allowing for much more comfortable ride. Radially mounted assembly also helps in accurate braking.

The Mojo is the first ever motorcycle in India to sport Pirelli tubeless radials. They are also the widest tyres in their class (4" x 17" at the rear), ensuring greater stability. These are complemented by edgy front petal disc brakes which are the largest in the segment at 320 mm to ensure safe braking. There's a disc brake at the rear as well.

The bike also features LED pilot lamps and tail lamps with clear lens indicators in the headlamp, ensuring greater visibility for the rider. The display includes a digital speedometer with fuel gauge, tripmeter, gear shift indicator, and analogue tachometer. The bike also sports indicators on the rear view mirrors, which are not seen on Indian bikes.

This showstopper sports an aerodynamic ‘tear drop' shape and a classic gold frame assembly with twin headlamps adding to the bike's distinctly retro look. The dual pipe frame adds strength to the overall structure of the bike, while the under cowl enhances the Mojo's macho appeal. This ‘exoskeleton' look is usually only found in top notch brands.

The Mojo is available in a choice of two colours – red and black. Customers also have the option of customising their bikes with a range of decals.

The Two Wheeler Sector of Mahindra aims to design and market a full range of scooters and motorcycles for the Indian and global markets, thus establishing a robust and end-to-end two-wheeler business in every segment of the industry.

The company's Power Scooters portfolio caters to a range of consumer segments. The Mahindra Rodeo with its very innovative, contemporary features is popular amongst the Indian youth, while the Mahindra Duro is positioned as a family scooter. The Flyte is the Indian woman's two-wheeler of choice.

Mahindra Stallio Price & Features:

- Available in two variants, Mahindra Stallio Price at Rs 44,699/- for cast alloy wheels with self start, fully digital console, Mahindra Stallio Price at Rs 41,199/- for spoke wheels with kick start (ex showroom Pune)

- 4 years manufacturer's warranty

- Biking can now be fun-filled and stylish - offers features that add to style thereby creating a new niche

- Multimedia marketing campaign featuring Aamir Khan

Mahindra Mojo Price & Features:

- Available in Derby Red, Colt Black, Equus Blue, Buckskin Yellow & Ranch Green

- Handcrafted, one of its kind

- Mahindra Mojo Price at Rs 1.75 lakh (ex showroom Pune)

- Blends cool retro styling with best of global technology & design - 4 Valve DOHC 300 cc power plant

- Sports aerodynamic 'tear drop' shape and a classic gold frame assembly with twin headlamp - Leading European vendors – Ducati Energia, Paioli & Pirelli (Italy), J Juan (Spain) – contribute to the making of the Mojo

- Available in red and black with decal customization options

Source: The Mahindra Group

India's car market leader Maruti Suzuki today handed over first lot of Two Maruti Suzuki SX4 Hybrid cars and One 'Eeco Charge' to Mr Arvinder Singh Lovely, Hon'ble Minister of Transport for NCT Delhi. The vehicles intended for use at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, were handed over by Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, in the city.

Maruti Suzuki has made ready a lot of 14 future technology vehicles for the use at Commonwealth Games. These include 10 Maruti Suzuki SX4 Hybrid Cars and 4 Maruti Suzuki 'Eeco Charge' vehicles. The balance vehicles will be handed over to the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee for use by the Officials during the Commonwealth Games.

On the occasion Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi said, "I am happy that engineers at Maruti Suzuki have developed these future technology vehicles. This project has helped our engineers to increase their knowledge and enhance their R&D capability. We are grateful to the Government for their leadership to promote green technology in automobiles. Maruti Suzuki is happy to be associated with the Commonwealth Games national initiative, through these vehicles."

Maruti Suzuki has developed the SX4 Hybrid vehicles and 'Eeco Charge' concept vehicles as a part of the demonstration fleet. The demonstration of the fleet of SX4 Hybrids and 'Eeco Charge' vehicles at the Commonwealth Games 2010, is in line with the ambitious NHPP and MNRE program outline.

SX4 Hybrid and 'Eeco Charge' concept development has been taken up by Maruti Suzuki as a part of the Government initiated and SIAM coordinated NHPP & MNRE National Hybrid Propulsion Program (NHPP) and the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy Sources (MNRE)'s High Energy Density Battery Development Program.

Capability building @ Maruti Suzuki

The development of Hybrid and Electric vehicles is one of the exciting initiatives undertaken by Maruti Suzuki to enhance its R&D capabilities and gear itself for greener technologies. Through this exercise Maruti Suzuki is keen to expand its learning's on green technologies that put minimal stress on non-renewable energy. A team of 25 Maruti Suzuki engineers worked on this project with global hybrid technology and component suppliers.

These future technology vehicles by Maruti Suzuki demonstrate how eco-friendliness and personal mobility can be packaged together as an exciting product. These concepts have been developed by a team of Maruti Suzuki engineers and were showcased at Delhi Auto Expo 2010.

'SX4 Hybrid'

SX4 Hybrid is a Full Parallel Hybrid with Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) on a sedan platform. SX4 Hybrid presents a case of evolution of transportation system with elements of flexibility, style and eco-friendliness. SX4 Hybrid offers mobility solution in an eco-friendly yet stylish manner.

The hybrid system used in the SX4 Hybrid features an electric motor and twin clutch arrangement with advance Lithium-ion battery technology. This concept combines a 1.2 litre K-series petrol engine and a 50 kW electric motor along with 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission. Together, these provide high fuel economy with lower emissions. The SX4 Hybrid is also capable of running solely on its electric motor, offering a further boost to fuel efficiency and zero emission modes in city driving. The SX4 hybrid offers 25 per cent more fuel efficiency compared to conventional gasoline vehicle.

'EECO Charge'

'Eeco Charge' is a zero-emission, pure electric vehicle developed on a MPV platform. It is powered by a 50kW motor and a 24kWh Lithium-ion battery. On full charge it promises a driving range of around 100km and attains top speed of 100 km per hour. The 'Eeco Charge' also has the 'Sport Mode' for acceleration enthusiast. The battery for 'Eeco Charge' has been packaged under floor for better drivability and retaining ample boot space. The real time display of State of Charge and 'Distance to Empty' addresses user's anxiety. The 'Eeco Charge' can be charged using household power source.

About NHPP and MNRE

The National Hybrid Propulsion Programme (NHPP) is an initiative of the Government of India. It is a public-private partnership initiative and India's first in hybrid technology; being jointly funded by Govt. of India and Indian Automotive OEM's. NHPP is expected to develop awareness and generate interest in the Indian automobile market to the world of hybrids.

Considering the importance of battery technology for successful EV/HEV development, MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable energy) has initiated a program on high energy density battery. The objective of this joint program, funded by Govt. of India & automotive OEM's, is to carry out the local development of high energy Li-ion battery packs by battery manufactures for pure electric/ hybrid electric vehicles.

Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has formed a core group of OEM's to take these projects forward. In this initiative SIAM functions as a nodal agency for OEM's, component manufacturers and Government of India. In line with Phase I of the project, OEM's are to showcase their Hybrid and Electric vehicles during Commonwealth Games 2010.

Source: Maruti Suzuki

It is a talking newspaper from Volkswagen, this time to introduce the Vento, its premium entry level sedan in India.

Unlike most sedans in this segment, the Volkswagen Vento has an extremely elegant and pure design which is a result of passionate craftsmanship. The communication brings this alive through the talking newspaper.

Speaking about this innovation Lutz Kothe, Head of Marketing & PR, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. said "our aim was to be able to emotionally connect to our customers with this product and what better way than being able to directly speak to them with the aid of a newspaper."

Volkswagen has partnered with the Times of India and The Hindu for this nationwide communication released today.

Source: Volkswagen

HM-Mitsubishi Motors, one of India’s leading auto manufacturers, is revamping its dealer strategy for the Indian market. As part of the strategy, HM-Mitsubishi will be significantly enhancing its presence in the country, with increased focus on tier II locations. The company will be inaugurating 22 new dealerships by March 2011. With this, HM-Mitsubishi will have 62 dealerships across India.

Speaking about the same, Y.V.S Vijay Kumar, Executive Vice President and Head of Mitsubishi business at HML, said “We have received an overwhelming response for the Outlander 2010, which we recently launched. And by and large we are seeing an increased demand for our brands across different locations, especially for the Pajero and Montero. Given this, and the fact that we will be launching more products for the Indian market shortly, we are adopting an aggressive dealer strategy, to establish our presence in more locations.”

Adding to this Yoshiaki Wada, Head – Dealer Development and Business Development, HM-Mitsubishi Motors, said, “This year, we are looking to aggressively increase our presence in the Indian market. We will be enhancing our focus on the key tier II and III locations, which are playing a key role in the growth and development of the auto sector in the country. In keeping with this, we have inaugurated 14 dealerships in the last five months across tier I and tier II cities. Currently, we are present across 40 locations in India through 54 dealerships and we aim to increase this number to 62 by the end of the current fiscal.”

The Mitsubishi model range in India includes Mitsubishi Lancer, Mitsubishi Cedia, Mitsubishi Cedia Sports, Mitsubishi Pajero, Mitsubishi Motero and Mitsubishi Outlander 2010. The entire Mitsubishi model range is available across all showrooms in the country.

Mitsubishi Cars Price in India (ex-showroom Delhi) are given below:

Mitsubishi Lancer Price 7.75 lacs (ex-showroom)
Mitsubishi Cedia sports Price 9.60 lacs (ex-showroom)
Mitsubishi Pajero Price 20.35 lacs (ex-showroom)
Mitsubishi Montero Price 38.95 lacs ex-showroom
Mitsubishi Outlander 2010 Price 20.25 lacs (ex-showroom)

Source: Mitsubishi Motors

Since their launch in 2009, the Mahindra Rodeo and Mahindra Duro have proved themselves as true city slickers, capable of taking on the toughest urban terrain. Now, these nifty two wheelers have proved their mettle in the mountains as well.

In August 2009, two intrepid journalists from Overdrive magazine, Halley Prabhakar and Kshitij Sharma, decided to ride the Rodeo and the Duro to Khardung La, the world's highest motorable pass.

But would the scooters be up to the challenge?

The answer proved to be a resounding yes as these gearless scooters admirably lived up to expectations, in conditions which are known to prove harsh for humans, much less machines. As Halley and Kshitij ascended further into the mountains, the air got thinner and the road got tougher. Yet, the Rodeo and the Duro valiantly soldiered on, even as their riders suffered from altitude sickness.

From rain and steep inclines uphill to boulders, and rough gravel roads that seemed to go on for miles, the Power Scooters took it all in their stride.

As Halley himself put it "they should have been battered, plastics should have shattered and tyres should have been slashed to ribbons. What actually happened was the scooters looked ready to head back without a moment's pause and it was we who felt battered and shattered."

Source: Mahindra

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), the second largest car manufacturer and the largest passenger car exporter, and Vijaya Bank, a premier public sector bank, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed to mutually benefit both companies by better serving their customers.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Arvind Saxena, Director, Marketing & Sales, HMIL and Sri K. Jayakar Shetty, General Manager, Vijaya Bank on behalf of their respective organisations. Sri Albert Tauro, Chairman & MD, Vijaya Bank and Smt. Shubhalakshmi Panse, Executive Director, Vijaya Bank were also present at the MoU signing ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Arvind Saxena, Director, Marketing and Sales, HMIL, said, “We are pleased to announce this partnership with Vijaya Bank, which has a strong pan-India presence. With this association, we will be able to reach out to a wider consumer base with better and easier finance options. Also, the competitive rates and easily accessible locations of the bank will surely benefit our customers.”

Under the agreement, both Hyundai Motor India dealers and the bank branches will source Hyundai Motor India car loan business using their customer database. The tie-up is extended to cover financing options by all the branches of the bank in India. Both the partners will utilize and leverage each other’s strengths to cross sell Hyundai vehicles along with the bank’s car loans and schemes.

HMIL currently has a 296 strong dealer network and 592 strong service points across India, which will see further expansion by end of 2010.

Source: Hyundai Motor India Ltd

The eagerly anticipated launch of Mahindra 2 Wheelers’ new range of motorcycles is just around the corner and to add to the excitement, there’s a specially created teaser campaign that’s all set to hit TV screens in the coming week.

Shot extensively on the world renowned Vallelunga Moto GP race track in Rome, Italy, the ad highlights the bikes’ Italian design credentials and the fact that they have undergone rigorous tests in Italy before coming to India.

It’s test day at Vallelunga as a team of engineers and a few spectators look towards the race track with eager anticipation. All attention is focused on the circuit as a bike appears in the distance and zooms past the curious onlookers. The camera then cuts to the pit stop and control rooms where you see various monitors displaying the evaluation parameters used to test the bike.

The engineers are elated – the bike has passed the test with flying colours!

The ad has the message: Tested In Italy, Coming to India – Mahindra Motorcycles towards the end.

The ad ends with a musical tune sign off that has the potential to become a signature tune for all advertising of Mahindra 2 Wheelers. While the ad does not show the details of the bike/s, it certainly leaves the viewer with the impression that the Mahindra bikes would have all the latest technological gadgetry courtesy the Italian lineage. The ad will be visible on all key genres of channels ranging from music, movies, mass, news, regional and sports and also on Youtube.

The ad gently exhorts the potential motorcycle buyer to postpone his decision and check out the bikes at the Mahindra show room.

The ad was directed by Andrea Ranalli who is renowned for his work on European Moto GP circuits. The Creative Director is Robby Mathew of Interface Communications.

Mahindra 2 Wheelers’ motorcycles incorporate design elements from the Bologna based Engines Engineering, a boutique design house which was acquired by the Mahindra Group in 2008. In addition to Mahindra 2 Wheelers, Engines Engineering also undertakes design work for companies such as Ducati, MV Augusta and Benelli.

Source: The Mahindra Group

After the successful debut of the 1.2 l Polo in India earlier this year, Volkswagen, Europe's largest car manufacturer introduces its powerful 1.6 l Polo variant into the market. This hot hatchback will be available to customers in the highline petrol variant at Rs. 6.16 lakhs, ex showroom New Delhi.

Commenting on this new variant, Neeraj Garg, Member of Board and Director Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. said "with the introduction of this variant the Polo becomes even more exciting for our customers as it becomes more powerful and fun to drive while continuing to maintain all the features available in the 1.2 l Polo variant."

Volkswagen Polo 1.6 l Variants & Fuel Efficiency:

The new Polo variant sports a 1.6 litre 4 cylinder petrol engine with an output of 105PS @ 5250 rpm and a Torque of 153NM @ 3750 rpm. It is paired with a 5-speed manual gear box and has a fuel efficiency of 15.96 km/litre.

Volkswagen Polo 1.6 l Exterior:

For the exterior, the Polo continues to get the body coloured bumpers, chrome strip in front grille, body coloured outside door handles & mirrors, galvanized body with 6 years anti-corrosion warranty and 15 inch alloy wheels

Volkswagen Polo 1.6 l Interior:

The interior of this car comes with gear shift knobs and interior door handles in chrome, chrome interior trims, storage compartments for 1 litre bottles, 60/40 split folding rear seats and superior ‘livon' upholstery.

Volkswagen Polo 1.6 l Safety Features:

With regards to safety, it is equipped with front disc brakes, ABS, front airbags for driver and co-driver and electronic anti theft immobilizer. On comfort, the Polo offers multi function information display including door opening warning, height adjustable driving seats, adjustable power steering that improves drive comfort, rear de fogger and power locks with remote transmitters. Manufactured in Volkswagen plant at Chakan, Pune the 1.6 l Polo is available to customers immediately.

Volkswagen Polo Petrol Variant Price @ Rs. 6.16 lakhs, ex showroom New Delhi.

Source: Volkswagen India

Since their launch in 2009, the Mahindra Rodeo and Mahindra Duro have proved themselves as true city slickers, capable of taking on the toughest urban terrain. Now, these nifty two wheelers have proved their mettle in the mountains as well.

In August 2009, two intrepid journalists from Overdrive magazine, Halley Prabhakar and Kshitij Sharma, decided to ride the Rodeo and the Duro to Khardung La, the world's highest motorable pass.

But would the scooters be up to the challenge?

The answer proved to be a resounding yes as these gearless scooters admirably lived up to expectations, in conditions which are known to prove harsh for humans, much less machines. As Halley and Kshitij ascended further into the mountains, the air got thinner and the road got tougher. Yet, the Rodeo and the Duro valiantly soldiered on, even as their riders suffered from altitude sickness.

From rain and steep inclines uphill to boulders, and rough gravel roads that seemed to go on for miles, the Power Scooters took it all in their stride.

As Halley himself put it "they should have been battered, plastics should have shattered and tyres should have been slashed to ribbons. What actually happened was the scooters looked ready to head back without a moment's pause and it was we who felt battered and shattered."

Source: Mahindra

Hero Honda Motors Ltd, the world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched the All-New Super Splendor with new value-added features to further strengthen its leadership in the deluxe segment. The all-new Super Splendor 125cc features aesthetic and technological advancements for superior performance and exceptional riding experience.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Dua, Sr. Vice-President (Marketing & Sales), Hero Honda Motors Ltd said, "The strategy of constantly updating the product portfolio has been key to the success of Hero Honda. Our Splendor range is the leading volume driver in the deluxe segment. And today, it is further bolstered by the introduction of the all-new Super Splendor. This bike caters to the changing needs of customers and offers them more contemporary styling and efficient performance. With this launch, we are confident of further strengthening our leadership position in the domestic motorcycle market."

"With consecutive months of four-lakh-plus sales since the month of May, our sales are moving at all-time-high levels. We are looking to build on this momentum with a slew of new launches leading up to the festive season." In a segment where customers seek styling, performance and higher efficiency, Super Splendor offers a perfect blend of features at an attractive value proposition.

The new Super Splendor is supported by new-age technology featuring the Honda Intelligent Ignition System (HIIS). The motorcycle also features a newly designed Carburetor and ACG for improved engine performance. The 5-step adjustable rear shock-absorber provides a smoother drive and comfort. The well-rounded, universal appeal of the all-new Super Splendor is further enhanced by its upgraded external features such as new body-art on fuel tank, new seat design, new wind screen and tail light, uniquely styled front & rear fender, and an elegantly stylized rear grab-rail that hugs the side cowls – thereby marking its unique aesthetic appeal.

The new Super Splendor (drum version with self-start) is attractively priced at Rs 45,950/- (ex-showroom Delhi). It is being made immediately available through Hero Honda's wide network of over 4200 sales and service points across the country. Hero Honda's Splendor brand was first launched in the year 1994 and since then the brand has become a legend in the motorcycle industry in the country, and indeed across the globe, surpassing a series of milestones on the way.

The Super Splendor 125cc was introduced in early 2005 with the path-breaking Quantum Core engine and enhanced features to give fuel economy even with higher engine power. Since then, the bike has been regularly upgraded to meet customers' evolving preferences and tastes.

Source: Hero Honda Motors Ltd