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

Maruti Suzuki unveil a special limited edition Ritz Genus today, to commemorate the first anniversary of Ritz model. The limited edition, 'Ritz Genus' retains the best attributes of Brand Ritz and adds several exciting features, which include: a brand new signature colour 'Emerald Blue'. The colour is accentuated through matching door handles and body colour rear view mirrors.

Smart body graphics run all along the length to make the car distinctly appealing. Body side mouldings add character to the Genus's profile. The rear is enhanced with a back door garnish and graceful "Genus" decal. The interiors are plush with a dual tone dashboard with blue-gray shades. For entertainment, the ‘Ritz Genus' is equipped with Radio and CD with speakers and tilt-adjustable steering. Other customer-friendly features include keyless entry, rear wiper-cum-washer, and a rear parcel tray.

'Ritz Genus' will be available as an option on the Ritz VXi (Petrol) and Ritz VDi (Diesel) models. Speaking on the occasion Shashank Srivastava, Chief General Manager (Marketing) said, "Limited Editions are our way to bring excitement to the showrooms. We have excellent experience with Limited editions in the past. While they bring in incremental sales numbers, at the same time customer response to these special models have helped us for future product development and planning. I am confident that the Ritz Genus will find great appreciation with customers for its new add-on features."

In recent years, the company has brought in 'Limited Editions' for its bestsellers like Swift, Estilo and Alto to bring vibrancy and excitement around its offerings. Maruti Suzuki Ritz, launched in May 2009, delivered the best ever first-year performance in the domestic automobile Premium A-2 segment by registering sales of a whopping 68,130 units in its first year of sales. Cumulatively, Ritz has sold over 86,400 vehicles till date.

The Ritz has endeared itself to its customers for its superb fuel efficiency of 17.7 kmpl in petrol and of 21.1 kmpl in diesel., bold styling and excellent road handling. The Ritz is available in two power train options: 1.2-litre, four-cylinder K Series petrol engine with maximum power of 85 PS and the highly successful 1.3-litre, DDiS diesel unit that delivers a maximum power of 75 PS. The Ritz comes with Drive-by-wire technology in both petrol and diesel variants. This along with the 32-bit Engine Management System provides faster signal processing and quick response.

Maruti Suzuki Ritz Genus Price in India (Ex-showroom (Delhi):

Maruti Suzuki Ritz Genus Vxi - Rs 4,52,349

Maruti Suzuki Ritz Genus Vdi - Rs 5,31,410

Source: Maruti Suzuki India Limited

Ford Motor Company will launch eight new vehicles in India by the middle of the decade as it moves to rapidly expand its presence in the fast growing market.

Joe Hinrichs, president of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa (APA), made the announcement today during a keynote speech titled "Managing Growth – Evolving Market Dynamics" at the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) Conference in New Delhi.

"We have big plans for India and for this region," Hinrichs said. "As we have seen from the spectacular early success of the Ford Figo, more and more Indian consumers appreciate the fuel efficient, economical, high quality, safe, and fun-to-drive vehicles that Ford offers. By the middle of this decade we will introduce eight new vehicles to India from our global platforms, in segments appropriate for this market. This is part of our ‘better plan' to bring more and more vehicles from our vast global portfolio to India and other markets in Asia Pacific and Africa."

Ford India launched the Ford Figo subcompact in the first quarter of this year, selling more than 30,000 units in 25 weeks.

"Although the vast majority of vehicles we produce in India will help satisfy growing local demand, we also continue to pursue export opportunities," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "We are pleased to announce that Ford India will export our locally-produced, hot-selling Ford Figo to 50 new markets, including Mexico, North Africa and the Middle East starting next year."

Ford has been exporting the Figo to South Africa since May 2010. Ford India also exports the Ford Fiesta (branded as the "Ikon") and diesel powertrains to South Africa, as well as 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines to Thailand. Ford sells the Endeavor, Ikon, Fiesta and Figo in India, all locally-produced.

The launch and export of both Figo and the engines are the result of a USD 500-million investment in India to expand manufacturing and set up an engine plant there.

Ford's APA region encompasses markets on three continents, including Australia, China, India, Thailand and South Africa. Industry sales in the region will increase from 16 million units in 2009, to an estimated 35 million units by 2018. The region is expected to account for nearly 70 percent of Ford's worldwide growth in the next decade.

Sales of vehicles in India have grown at an average annual rate of 17 percent over the past five years, and an estimated 10 million to 11 million people will migrate from two-wheeled forms of transport to small cars in the next few years.

Hinrichs' remarks at the SIAM conference focused on strategies for managing change, specifically the impact of rising demand and increasing capacity on the value chain.

"Introducing eight new vehicles by the middle of the decade is an ambitious plan that will have tremendous impact on our manufacturing operations, supply chain, dealers and employees. As part of our better plan for India, we are working today to make sure the value chain is ready for the demands we will place on it in the years to come," Hinrichs said.

Expanding capacity creates particular challenges for suppliers, which are responsible for a large part of a vehicle, and requires new approaches.

"In India and in the rest of the world, we are simplifying the way we work with suppliers by reducing complexity and expanding part commonality," Hinrichs said. "By 2012, more than 70 percent of the vehicles sold under the Ford brand globally will be built off 15 core platforms. By bringing suppliers into the development process earlier we can ultimately generate more profit for the supply chain."

This leads to lower development cost and greater economies of scale for our suppliers, and ultimately a higher quality and more economical vehicle for consumers, he said.

"To succeed in a place as unique and fascinating as India, we have learned to listen more closely to our customers, dealers and suppliers," Hinrichs said. "Our ONE Ford plan says to adapt and to localise. It has made us a better company here in India and around the world."

Source: Ford India

Continuing its product offensive, Mercedes-Benz India today announced the launch of the E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY in elegance styling. This marks the debut of the CGI technology in the E-Class range. The CGI technology combined with BlueEFFICIENCY measures ensures optimized efficiency, performance as well as environmental compatibility. The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY thus becomes the second Mercedes model to feature these innovative measures.

After celebrating the spirit of open top motoring with the launch of the E-Class Cabriolet earlier in August, Mercedes-Benz India E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY marks the entry point of customers into the E-Class family.

With an aggressive price tag of Rs. 38.76 Ex-Showroom Pune (INR 39.5 - Ex-showroom Delhi), the new offering from the E-Class stable is tailored to deliver the highest standards of design, technology, comfort and luxury motoring to its discerning patrons.

Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India Limited, said "E-Class has been an all round success internationally; in India too it is the most popular luxury car in the country. The new E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY is an irresistable combination of power, torque and luxury and further reinforces the broad range within the E-Class offerings."

Source: Mercedes-Benz India Limited

Ford Motor Company will launch eight new vehicles in India by the middle of the decade as it moves to rapidly expand its presence in the fast growing market.

Joe Hinrichs, president of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa (APA), made the announcement today during a keynote speech titled "Managing Growth – Evolving Market Dynamics" at the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) Conference in New Delhi.

"We have big plans for India and for this region," Hinrichs said. "As we have seen from the spectacular early success of the Ford Figo, more and more Indian consumers appreciate the fuel efficient, economical, high quality, safe, and fun-to-drive vehicles that Ford offers. By the middle of this decade we will introduce eight new vehicles to India from our global platforms, in segments appropriate for this market. This is part of our ‘better plan' to bring more and more vehicles from our vast global portfolio to India and other markets in Asia Pacific and Africa."

Ford India launched the Ford Figo subcompact in the first quarter of this year, selling more than 30,000 units in 25 weeks.

"Although the vast majority of vehicles we produce in India will help satisfy growing local demand, we also continue to pursue export opportunities," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "We are pleased to announce that Ford India will export our locally-produced, hot-selling Ford Figo to 50 new markets, including Mexico, North Africa and the Middle East starting next year."

Ford has been exporting the Figo to South Africa since May 2010. Ford India also exports the Ford Fiesta (branded as the "Ikon") and diesel powertrains to South Africa, as well as 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines to Thailand. Ford sells the Endeavor, Ikon, Fiesta and Figo in India, all locally-produced.

The launch and export of both Figo and the engines are the result of a USD 500-million investment in India to expand manufacturing and set up an engine plant there.

Ford's APA region encompasses markets on three continents, including Australia, China, India, Thailand and South Africa. Industry sales in the region will increase from 16 million units in 2009, to an estimated 35 million units by 2018. The region is expected to account for nearly 70 percent of Ford's worldwide growth in the next decade.

Sales of vehicles in India have grown at an average annual rate of 17 percent over the past five years, and an estimated 10 million to 11 million people will migrate from two-wheeled forms of transport to small cars in the next few years.

Hinrichs' remarks at the SIAM conference focused on strategies for managing change, specifically the impact of rising demand and increasing capacity on the value chain.

"Introducing eight new vehicles by the middle of the decade is an ambitious plan that will have tremendous impact on our manufacturing operations, supply chain, dealers and employees. As part of our better plan for India, we are working today to make sure the value chain is ready for the demands we will place on it in the years to come," Hinrichs said.

Expanding capacity creates particular challenges for suppliers, which are responsible for a large part of a vehicle, and requires new approaches.

"In India and in the rest of the world, we are simplifying the way we work with suppliers by reducing complexity and expanding part commonality," Hinrichs said. "By 2012, more than 70 percent of the vehicles sold under the Ford brand globally will be built off 15 core platforms. By bringing suppliers into the development process earlier we can ultimately generate more profit for the supply chain."

This leads to lower development cost and greater economies of scale for our suppliers, and ultimately a higher quality and more economical vehicle for consumers, he said.

"To succeed in a place as unique and fascinating as India, we have learned to listen more closely to our customers, dealers and suppliers," Hinrichs said. "Our ONE Ford plan says to adapt and to localise. It has made us a better company here in India and around the world."

Source: Ford India

Continuing its product offensive, Mercedes-Benz India today announced the launch of the E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY in elegance styling. This marks the debut of the CGI technology in the E-Class range. The CGI technology combined with BlueEFFICIENCY measures ensures optimized efficiency, performance as well as environmental compatibility. The E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY thus becomes the second Mercedes model to feature these innovative measures.

After celebrating the spirit of open top motoring with the launch of the E-Class Cabriolet earlier in August, Mercedes-Benz India E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY marks the entry point of customers into the E-Class family.

With an aggressive price tag of Rs. 38.76 Ex-Showroom Pune (INR 39.5 - Ex-showroom Delhi), the new offering from the E-Class stable is tailored to deliver the highest standards of design, technology, comfort and luxury motoring to its discerning patrons.

Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India Limited, said "E-Class has been an all round success internationally; in India too it is the most popular luxury car in the country. The new E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY is an irresistable combination of power, torque and luxury and further reinforces the broad range within the E-Class offerings."

Source: Mercedes-Benz India Limited

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) announced the launch of the Toyota Fortuner, in India.

The internationally acclaimed Toyota Fortuner, which offers an unmatched combination of power and luxury supported by cutting-edge technology, was unveiled in New Delhi today by Mr. Akira Okabe (Senior Managing Director, TMC), Mr. Vikram Kirloskar (Vice-Chairman, TKM), Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa (MD, TKM), Mr. Kaoru Hosokawa (Chief Engineer, TMC) and Mr. Sandeep Singh (DMD, Marketing, TKM).

Available with 5 speed manual transmission, the Toyota Fortuner not only offers unshakeable sturdiness with high ground clearance, long wheelbase, full-time 4WD and excellent drivability on all terrains, but is also loaded with comfort features like Climate Control AC, Optitron meter, Multi-information display, steering control switches, Space-up type 3rd row seats and leather interiors.

The exquisite bodyline and sporty exteriors of Toyota Fortuner are further accentuated by attractive roof rails, rear spoiler, side steps & bonnet scoop. The spacious and comfortable interiors give Toyota Fortuner an unparalleled edge over other SUVs in its segment.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Akira Okabe (Senior Managing Director, TMC) said, "We are delighted to introduce Fortuner in the Indian market. Globally, Fortuner has already sold over 2,50,000 units in more than 60 countries since its launch in 2005. The launch of Toyota Fortuner today is an expression of Toyota's commitment to provide best in class quality and technology to our customers in India."

Added Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa (Managing Director, TKM), "We're very proud to finally bring Fortuner to India. The sleek yet rugged Fortuner delivers superior performance and excellent luxury for Indian customers. We would also like to thank our customers for the extremely encouraging response to the initial announcement of this launch."

Mr. Kaoru Hosokawa (Chief Engineer, TMC) said, "Toyota's Fortuner is fully loaded with advanced features and has been extensively tested to suit Indian conditions. The powerful Common Rail type 3.0 L D-4D Diesel engine with Intercooler Turbocharger delivers superior power and performance."

Mr. Sandeep Singh (DMD, Marketing, TKM) added "The SUV market in India has witnessed extensive growth due to launches in Mid/Premium SUV segment. We expect that the launch of the Fortuner will expand the mid-SUV market in India. The Fortuner will be very competitively priced at Rs 18.45 lakhs ex-showroom New Delhi. We will also implement a focused marketing campaign (including TV, print, magazines, hoardings, direct marketing, internet marketing and SMS) targeted at enhancing the awareness of advanced technology features amongst our Indian customers."

The Toyota Fortuner will be assembled in India at TKM's plant in Bidadi.

Toyota Fortuner Features:
- Globally acclaimed for Rugged and Tough Performance with sedan like Luxury and Comfort – the Real SUV
- At competitive price of Rs 18.45 lakhs (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
- 3.0 L D-4D Diesel engine with Intercooler Turbocharger offers highest power (171PS) in mid-SUV segment and maximum torque of 343 Nm.
- Incomparable combination of luxurious interiors and sporty features for an exciting driving experience.
- Full-time 4WD & Toyota Outstanding Platform (TOP) to handle all kinds of terrain – the Real SUV.
- Highest standards of passenger safety - Active safety with ABS & Disc Brakes, passive safety with Impact Absorbing body and SRS airbags for driver and front passenger.
- Available in five exciting body colors - Super White, Silver Mica Metallic, Grey Mica Metallic, Black Mica and Light Blue Metallic.

Source: Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd.