Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JULY 25 :
MARUTI Suzuki India net profit in Q1FY'11 was Rs  4,654 million, against Rs 5,835 million in Q1FY'10. The company registered net sales of Rs 80,507 million during the first quarter of 2010-11, a growth of 27 per cent compared to the same period of the previous year.

According to company sources, the drop in net profit is due to higher commodity prices, increase in royalty and lower ‘other income’. In addition, income from exports to Europe fell due to weakening of the Euro.

During the quarter, the company posted total sales of 283,324 units, representing 25 per cent growth. This included export of 40,437 units, a 38 per cent growth over the same period of the last fiscal. The company’s domestic sales volume grew by 23 per cent to 242,887 units The Company launched a new WagonR (a full model change) during the quarter.

The company's volume in the domestic A2 segment grew by 16.2 per cent during the quarter, while in the C segment, sales volume grew by 50.8 per cent, aided by the success of Eeco. The Company’s sales volume in the A3 segment grew by 45.2 per cent, compared to sales in April-June 2009.

During the quarter the company's sales network grew to 828 outlets covering 577 cities (end- March ’10: 802 outlets, 555 cities). The service network increased to 2,771 service outlets covering 1,342 cities. (end -March ’10: 2,740 outlets, 1,335 cities) .(editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA MOTORS TO RAMP UP NANO PRODUCTION

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, JULY 16 :
TATA Motors today said that with its 250,000-unit/year Sanand plant becoming operational ahead of schedule, the company will speedily ramp up production of the Tata Nano. Accordingly, the company has begun intimating retainee-customers that their cars are coming up for delivery. This is the final step, before the company opens up sales of the Tata Nano.

Retainee-customers are those who had retained their booking with the company though not selected among the first allottee-customers from out of the booking process of 2009. Despite a steep increase in input prices, their Tata Nanos are being priced only three to four percent higher, depending on the model, than the price announced at launch.

The terms and conditions of booking had provided that the applicable price of the car for a retainee-customer would be notified at the time of delivery. Also, as announced at the booking, they have received interest on their deposit.

The allottee-customers, still awaiting delivery, will get their cars at the same price as announced at launch on March 23, 2009. Tata Motors would like to reward the loyalty of the allottee-customers for bearing with the company through a prolonged period of delivery, given the capacity constraints till the Sanand plant became operational.

As a gesture of goodwill and gratitude, the company has announced for them a choice among a one-year free annual maintenance contract (AMC), or free accessories worth Rs.4000 or an extended warranty.
With the ramp-up at the Sanand plant, customers desirous of the car will soon be able to freely purchase the Tata Nano. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

BAJAJ AUTO ADDS MORE PUNCH TO PULSAR 135

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

PUNE , JULY 15 :
BAJAJ Auto , India's two- wheeler giant, has added more punch to its Pulsar 135 Light Sports. The new Pulsar 135 LS sport's a snazzy rear mud guard that adds to the overall sportier look. The new model showcases an all black engine and a half chain casing to further enhance the looks of the already stylish Pulsar 135. In addition, an O-ring sealed chain has been added for lower maintenance.

The company has incorporated these enhancements at a time when the Pulsar 135 LS has achieved the most coveted second largest selling performance brand in the country. Its chiseled lines, aggressive stance, sporty split seat, aluminum clip-on handle bars and a host of other features has made the Pulsar 135 LS a huge hit amongst the college going youngsters.

Brought into the market with the original thought of being a riders' delight, this light sports vehicle revolutionized the way sports biking is perceived in India. The bike sells at Rs. 53,000/- ex-showroom Delhi.

Mr. Milind Bade, GM Marketing, Bajaj Auto Said: "The Pulsar 135 LS has been a runaway success ever since its launch. Based on customer feedback we have introduced these features in the bike that would further enhance its appeal. We are confident that the customers will appreciate the new offering even more so as these come at no extra cost." (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

CONTINETAL DEVELOPS START- STOP SYSTEMS IN ULTRA-COMPACT CARS

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, India/ Regensburg/Shanghai, JULY 08 :
AS part of strategy to play an important role in shaping these global megatrends of environmental and low-cost vehicles , the Interior division of Continental has developed a new control unit .. The control unit makes it possible for vehicle manufacturers to offer even models in the ultra-compact category with an automatic start-stop system within very short development time.

When the vehicle is at a standstill, for example in a traffic jam or at traffic lights, the engine is automatically switched off and then restarted within a few fractions of a second when the driver wants to move off again. As a result, the company expects everyday fuel consumption in major cities to be reduced by as much as 15 percent.

With affordable components for start-stop systems the company makes savings possible even in ultra-compact cars. Cars in the lower price segment are in particularly great demand in booming developing countries such as India or China. Here, the particular challenge is to achieve quick and efficient reductions in consumption and therefore also pollution emissions.

The components for start-stop systems for vehicles in the lower price segment represents the company's response to the efforts being made in many developing countries to combine mass mobility with the most frugal possible use of natural resources. It is not for nothing that new pollution emissions limits are being discussed in many of these countries. For example, India is currently considering whether to launch a special vehicle registration as a means of promoting sales of particularly low-consumption cars from 2011 onwards.

The heart of the components from Continental is the new engine start-stop (ESS) control unit which groups together all the relevant functions. It is based on the Basic Function Controller presented in May 2008, and makes it possible to switch off the engine automatically even in cars that do not have elaborate engine control units or data networks.

To do this, all that is needed is the start-stop control unit itself, an intelligent battery sensor (IBS) as well as a signal from the clutch and gearbox to ensure that the engine is only switched off when idling and is restarted in just a few fractions of a second when the clutch pedal is pressed. For vehicles with convenience electronics that draw power, THe company also offers a DC/DC converter in order to balancing voltage dips from occurring when the engine is started: infotainment systems such as the radio, satellite navigation or instrumentation can therefore continue to operate without disruptions.

One particular advantage of the solution is its short development time. All relevant functions are combined in a single control unit, so there is no need to modify the engine ECU or gearbox ECU. This reduces complexity and makes it possible to start series production sooner. The new control unit is going to enter series production in 2010 at its first Asian vehicle manufacturer. As well as the speed and flexibility of adaptation,

Despite the fact that the new ESS control unit can be adapted to different vehicle models at short notice, and has been designed above all for use in cars in the lower price segments, the driver will not notice any difference between it and comparable systems in higher category models: the levels of comfort, functional reliability and the potential for fuel savings are identical. Therefore, the engine start-stop control unit from Continental is not just for developing countries. After all, the new system from Continental can also be quickly and cost-effectively integrated into compact cars or low-cost, large volume models from vehicle manufacturers in Europe and the USA.

An automatic start-stop system offers vast savings potential. Using it, average consumption reductions of up to 10 percent have been measured in the various standard and test cycles used in Europe, the USA, China or India. Significantly , greater consumption benefits can be achieved in everyday driving. After all, traffic jams and delays are part and parcel of urban life in continuously growing megacities such as Delhi, Shanghai or São Paulo.(editor@thesynergyonline.com)

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JULY 01 :
KINETIC Group, major player in automobile and engineering sector, today finalized an agreement to form a 50-50 joint venture between Kinetic Communications, group's arm specializing in engineering services, and the architectural and engineering services group, FGTecnopolo of Italy.

The joint venture will combine the strength of FGT's international design expertise with a locally set up engineering center in Pune and operate in the name of Kinetic FGTecnopolo.

The JV will focus on a spectrum of infrastructure related products and services, including design, architectural and detailed engineering services for large infrastructure projects. These projects would include urban infrastructure such as SEZ/urban townships, transportation projects such as Airports, Seaports, Railway stations, and other public or private works in the area of infrastructure, retail or hospitality.

The company will further expand scope of its work to launch other products and services related to infrastructure including Traffic Management systems and LED solutions for lighting through the technology tie up.

Kinetic has already entered this sector via its Joint venture with Hyundai Group of South Korea, called Kinetic Hyundai Elevators and Moving Technologies Limited, that specializes in Elevators, Escalators, moving walks, and Automated Parking Systems. Kinetic- Hyundai is one of the leading companies in this field in India now, and working with many leading players including 5 star hotel chains, leading real estate and infra groups like Reliance, Ansals, Prestige, Oberoi, Kumar, Panchsheel, and many others.

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Director, Kinetic FGT said on the occasion , "India is on an unprecedented path of growth and over the next 10 years, there will be a tremendous growth in infrastructure, construction, retail and hospitality industry. The current infrastructure and construction industry value in India is at Rs 170 billion (US$114.9 billion).

The group has a presence in both engineering and design area with its engineering center at KCL and in infrastructure products segment, through its JV with Hyundai for elevators and moving technologies. We would like to leverage the available expertise and relationships in the market and design Infrastructure and combine the same with FGTecnopolo's strengths in areas of design, architectural and engineering services and we hope to make a mark in this sector.

"The Indian infrastructure segment has witnessed robust growth over the past decade and by joining our complementary forces, we have created synergies to tap the mushrooming Indian market. Kinetic FGTecnopolo will demonstrate a new business model and offer value added services to its customers. FGTecnopolo's capabilities and extensive European market knowledge and Kinetic's presence in the Indian market will help to be more effective", said Stefano De Marchis, FGT Advisors, Chairman of FGT Advisors and Director of FGT India.

Kinetic FG Tecnopolo will be located at Pune where the company will set up a design and engineering sector to cater to opportunities in India as well as support the global operations of FGTecnopolo. (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JUNE 30 :
VEHICLE dependability across the auto industry in India improves notably in 2010, as compared with 2009, with the greatest gains occurring in the areas of vehicle exterior and interior, according to the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2010 India Vehicle Dependability Study SM (VDS) released today.

Overall vehicle dependability averages 269 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in 2010, improving by 21 PP100 from 2009. Overall dependability is based on the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles, with lower scores indicating a lower rate of problem incidence and higher long-term vehicle quality. The study ranks vehicles within seven market segments: compact car; premium compact car; entry midsize car; midsize car; premium midsize car; multi-utility/multi-purpose vehicles (MUV/ MPV); and sport-utility vehicles (SUV).

"Compared with previous years, vehicles that are 30 to 42 months old now have fewer problems," said Mohit Arora, executive director at J.D. Power Asia Pacific, Singapore. "This suggests that manufacturers have made conscious improvements in the long-term dependability of their vehicles, and therefore, vehicles made more recently are likely to have fewer problems over their lifetime than those that were made even a few years ago. This is positive news for consumers who are looking to buy a used vehicle as well as those who own relatively newer models and plan to hold on to them for a while. "

The study provides useful information to both the automotive industry and consumers and regarding long-term vehicle quality by measuring 169 problem symptoms in nine categories: vehicle exterior; driving experience; features, controls and displays; audio and entertainment; seats; heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC); vehicle interior; engine; and transmission. For consumers, the Vehicle Dependability Study offers insight into the reliability and dependability of brands and specific models nearing the end of the standard warranty period. In addition, the study is designed to assist manufacturers in tracking the quality performance of their models over time for purposes of product improvement.

Two Chevrolet models and two Toyota models each rank highest in their respective segments. Chevrolet models earning awards are the Spark (compact) and U-VA (premium compact). The Toyota Corolla (premium midsize car) and the Innova (MUV/ MPV) each receive awards for a third consecutive year. Also receiving segment awards are: Ford Endeavor (SUV), for a third consecutive year; Honda City (midsize car), for a third consecutive year; and Mahindra-Renault Logan (entry midsize car).

Mercedes-Benz is the highest-ranked nameplate with a score of 43 PP100. Skoda and Hyundai are the most-improved nameplates in the study in 2010, improving by 135 PP100 and 94 PP100, respectively, from 2009. Their gains are largely due to improvements in their high-volume models, the Skoda Octavia and the Hyundai Santro.

The study also finds that 42 percent of owners report that repair work was performed on their vehicle. The most commonly reported types of repairs include tire repair, body/ accident repair and transmission repair. Among owners of models that did not require repair, problem counts average 170 PP100 lower than that of owners who had repairs performed on their vehicles.

In addition, customers who had repairs performed on their vehicle are less likely to repurchase the same make or recommend the same model, compared with customers whose vehicle didn't need repair. The proportion of customers who say they are "disappointed" with their vehicle quality is three times higher among repair customers, compared with customers whose vehicle didn't need repair.

"Incidences of vehicle repair have an adverse impact on owner perceptions of the long-term reliability and durability of their vehicles, which may result in a greater propensity to replace their vehicles," said Arora.

The 2010 India Vehicle Dependability Study is based on evaluations from 5,824 original owners who purchased a new vehicle between July 2006 and October 2007. The study includes 46 vehicle models covering 13 nameplates and was fielded from January to April 2010 in 20 cities across India. The VDS is one of two J.D. Power and Associates automotive quality studies for the India market, along with the Initial Quality Study (IQS), which measures problems of new vehicles at two to six months of ownership. The India IQS will be published in November. (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

TATA MOTORS , INDUSIND BANK ENTER INTO AGREEMENT

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI , JUNE 30 :
INDUSIND Bank and Tata Motors have entered into an agreement, where IndusInd Bank will provide channel finance facilities to Tata Motors ' dealers.

The dealers of Tata Motors will now have access to ready upstream finance from IndusInd Bank to meet their working capital requirements in addition to the existing retail finance arrangements. IndusInd ranks in the top retail financiers for Tata motors commercial vehicle segment today. This tie up is a part of the strategic focus of IndusInd Bank in developing the supply chain business.

Mr. R. Ramakrishnan Vice President (Sales & Marketing, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors Limited) said, "Tata Motors Commercial vehicle has a good share of business in the retail asset funding through IndusInd Bank and going forward, we want to leverage this tie up to garner even more business in the retail loan segment. We would also like to provide our Channel partners with the inventory funding from IndusInd Bank at reasonable and competitive rates. We are sure that our growing network will drive the tie up to achieve the aspirational growth targets."

Mr Suhail Chander, Head Corporate & Commercial Bank, IndusInd Bank said, "We, at IndusInd, are already amongst the largest Retail Financier of Commercial vehicles in the country. A Channel Finance facility to the dealers is a natural corollary to this business. By introducing technology, we aim to create value in this partnership between the Dealer, Tata Motors & IndusInd Bank."

Mr. Ramesh Ganesan, Head Transaction Banking, IndusInd Bank said, "IndusInd Bank's focus is to expand the scope of client relationships by adding value to partners of our clients. There is an increased need for financing in this fast growing sector. We propose to deliver this product through a technological platform enabling integration with the manufacturer and the dealers, thus speeding up credit delivery at a reduced cost supported by widespread branch network." (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

TATA MOTORS PLANS TO RAISE RS 4,700 CRORE LONG TERM CAPITAL

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, JUNE 28 :
AT a board meeting of Tata Motors today, the board, inter alia, decided to seek shareholders' approval through a postal ballot for raising funds equivalent to about Rs.4,700 crore through a combination of issue of ordinary shares, 'A' ordinary shares, convertible bonds, debentures, warrants or other equity- linked instruments in the domestic and/or international markets in one or more tranches.

The fund raising proposals will be for meeting the company's growth plans as well as for reducing the debt on its balance sheet.

The timing and structure of the issues will be decided depending upon market conditions post shareholders' and other approvals.

The board also considered appropriate to seek shareholders' approval for raising the limits for borrowings and for creation of security on the company's properties from Rs.20,000 crore to Rs.30,000 crore. (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

JAGUAR LAND ROVER STARTS DELIVERIES OF ICONIC JAGUAR XJ IN INDIAN MARKET

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, JUNE 15 :
JAGUAR Land Rover has begun deliveries of the iconic Jaguar XJ in India. The car was shown in India in the Delhi Auto Expo in January this year and the stunningly beautiful and revolutionary new product from the Jaguar stable was acclaimed by one and all.

Mr S Krishnan, Tata Motors' Senior Vice President (Commercial), Passenger Car Business Unit, said on the occasion. "We notice a very intense aspiration in India to own an XJ. We are encouraged by the number of customers who have expressed a desire to own this iconic car."

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering. The elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car's silhouette and lies at the heart of its flowing design. It does not just look streamlined -- its drag coefficient of 0.29 makes it the most aerodynamic Jaguar ever, along with the XF.

At the heart of the all-new XJ's construction is Jaguar's unique lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminium, but also using magnesium and composite alloys, this allows Jaguar to produce a significantly lighter and stiffer body - the lightest in its class.

The structure features aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes, and uses these advanced materials to deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and superior safety performance.
A coupé profile cloaks a cabin that offers comparable levels of space to saloons with a more conventional style. There is generous accommodation for five occupants. The exquisitely designed interior has a strong sporting character throughout.

The spacious cabin is rich in the tactile delight of soft-glove leather, warm veneers and cool chrome.The panoramic glass roof dramatically enhances the sense of light and space inside.

In keeping with its status as the ultimate four-door Jaguar, the XJ introduces a new generation of interior technologies, pioneering the use of display and infotainment systems such as the innovative Virtual Instrument dials, 8" full color Dual View technology Touch Screen display and 1200W Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound system.

The all-new XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car's appearance. Benefiting from technologies like continuously variable damping (Adaptive Dynamics), quick ratio power-steering system, JaguarDrive SelectorTM, JaguarDrive ControlTM, Jaguar Sequential Shift and Dynamic Stability Control with Trac DSC mode the new XJ combines responsive, sporting dynamics with the refined, supple ride expected from a luxury Jaguar.

The new XJ is available in India in the long wheelbase version. It is powered by the highly acclaimed 5.0-litre 385PS AJ-V8 Gen III naturally aspirated direct-injection V8 petrol engine. (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

CEAT ANNOUNCES CITRA AWARD WINNERS FOR NORTH ZONE

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JUNE 09 :
RPG Group's flagship and India's tyre major, CEAT Tyres, today announced winners of 'India Road Transportation Awards 2010' from the North zone. The following winners have won the awards from the North zone in the following categories:

<Transport Corporation of India for Operational Excellence
<Embee Road Services for Personnel Management

This new initiative of CEAT India Road Transportation Awards (CIRTA) recognizes and felicitates the road transport industry's achievers. It is India's first and only Fleet Excellence Awards.

"Road transport is the backbone of many industries. A sector that was relatively unorganized a few years back is fast becoming a professional industry with large players showing keen business interest in the transport industry. It is necessary to recognize the efforts of fleet owners towards smooth operations, customer satisfaction and their initiatives towards environment conservation. CIRTA as a platform will motivate fleet owners to work in a more organized and professional manner." mentioned, Mr Arnab Banerjee, Executive Director - Sales, Marketing and Outsourcing, CEAT .

The awards were adjudged for the following categories:
<Operational Excellence
<Environment Conservation
<Customer Experience
<Personnel Management

The National Awards event will be held on June 25 , 2010 in Mumbai. These awards evaluate fleet owners on parameters including innovation, impact, sustainability and replicability.
About CIRTA:

An eminent Advisory board was set up to advice on the awards process and on how best to provide recognition and enlistment of transportation industry. The advisory board comprises personalities such as, Mr. Anant Goenka, Deputy Managing Director, CEAT, Mr. Dilip Chenoy, Director General, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Mr. G.R. Shanmugappa, President, All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), Mr. Ramesh Agarwal, President, All India Transporters Welfare Association (AITWA)

An Independent jury has been set up, who will screen, tabulate score and select the finalist. The jury consist of eminent personalities such as Mr. Amit S. Kawoor, Head - Logistics & Customer Operations, Marico , Mr. Anand Mirchandani, Chief Editor, Transtopics, Mr. Anupam Bhatnagar, Vice President, Mahindra Logistics, Mr. Muthuraj Guruswamy, Consultant, Logistics Executive Recruitment Australia, Mr. Parari A. Patil, Vice President - Supply Chain & Business Development, Lupin, Mr. Pravin Puntambekar, VP, Shriram Transport Finance Company , Mr. Sanjay Mane, Independent Logistics & Transportation Consultant, Mr. Sudhanshu Kumar, Chief - Customer Service Division, Tata Steel (TISCO) and Mr. Vikram R. Srihari, Director, JCL Logistics , SP Shah, president, FADA. (editor@thesynergyonline.com) 

TATA MOTORS UNVEILS ALL-NEW TATA INDIGO E-CS

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, MAY 19 :
TATA Motors today commercially launched its all new Tata Indigo e-CS, the fuel-efficient sedan in the country, with a host of exciting features. Built on the existing Tata Indigo platform, the Tata Indigo e-CS succeeds Tata Indigo CS, the compact sedan , which according to company sources , became a best seller in the first year of its launch in 2008, and opened up a completely new market for upwardly mobile young professionals.

The sources say that the Indigo CS has dominated the entry mid-size segment in the country for almost 2 years with its proposition of being the most compact sedan in the market. It has been appreciated for its classy styling as much as the great value proposition that it offers at an unbeatable price to a sedan customer.

Sporting an all new 1.4 litre CR4 Common Rail Diesel engine, the e-CS offers an ARAI approved mileage of 23.03 kmpl, which is the highest for any sedan currently available in the country. It is also available with the 1.2 litre MPFI petrol engine to provide customers with a wider choice.

The refinement in both the engines results in a more enjoyable driving experience, along with the seating comfort that the Indigo CS is known for. Both these engines are compliant with BS4 emission norms currently applicable in 13 cities in India.

The  Indigo e-CS also gets a fresh new look on the exteriors with a new satin finish front grill, new headlamps, and ORVM with blinkers. This coupled with body coloured bumpers and chrome inserts on the rub rails endows the e-CS with head turning looks.

The dual tone beige interiors of the fabric and the dashboard create a plush feel. With a view to appealing to the youth, the Indigo e-CS comes equipped with a Bluetooth enabled music system and electrical controls for ORVMs. This is in addition to the AC, power steering and power windows which were available in the earlier Indigo CS as well.

The car comes with a warranty of 18 months for an unlimited no. of kilometres, amongst the best in the industry, and will be available in a range of 4 colours through 239 dealerships across 412 towns and cities in the country. 

The car is priced at Rs 4.07 lakh ex-showroom Delhi for the MPFI petrol base eGLS version going upto Rs 5.13 lakh ex-showroom Delhi for the top-end eLX version of the CR4 diesel. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

SETCO AUTOMOTIVE NET PROFIT UP FOR 2009-10

Thesynergyonline Corporate Bureau

NEW DELHI, MAY 02 :
SETCO Automotive , India’s manufacturer of premium clutches for the medium and heavy commercial vehicles (MHCV) posted an impressive 62 percent increase in net profit at Rs.18.53 crore in the year ended March 31, 2010 as against Rs.11.47 crore in the previous year.

The company crossed Rs. 200- crore mark and ended with net sales of Rs.211.28 crore as against Rs.160.22 crore in the previous year, an increase of 32 percent.

Commenting on the company’s performance, Mr. Harish Sheth, Chairman and Managing Director, Setco Automotive , said “the auto industry, riding on the back of strong economic recovery from Sept 2009, recovered giving a significant boost to the demand for Commercial Vehicle”. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

BMW INDIA UNVIELS NEWS BMW 5 SERIES IN INDIA

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, APRIL 30 :
THE new BMW 5 Series was unveiled today at the exclusive BMW pavilion which has been specially constructed for the launch in India.

The new BMW 5 Series is available in two petrol variants - 535i and 523i and two diesel variants - 530d and 525d and can be ordered at BMW dealerships across India.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Peter Kronschnabl, president, BMW India said, "The 5 Series is the core model in our product portfolio. Each generation of the BMW 5 Series has been a winner and has played a major role in the company's success around the world. And we intend to keep it that way in India. You can imagine what high expectations we have of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan: It has to live up to its highly successful predecessor both in terms of innovative technology and sales achievements."

"Splendid design, flawless workmanship, driver orientation with ideally placed instruments and intuitive operation, the new BMW 5 Series embodies a formula to captivate the senses. The new BMW 5 Series is everything a BMW sedan is meant to be: aesthetic, dynamic and efficient." Mr. Peter Kronschnabl, president, BMW India further added.

The BMW 5 Series has significantly contributed to the success and image of BMW in India. BMW India has sold over 3600 units of the 5 Series in India since 2007.
The all India ex-showroom prices in INR are as follows.
The new BMW 523i : 38,90,000
The new BMW 525d : 39,90,000
The new BMW 530d : 45,90,000

Ex-showroom price excludes RTO registration charges, tax, insurance, handling charges; Octroi and entry tax (as applicable). The above ex-showroom prices are exclusive of sales tax / VAT applicable on sale to the customer. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice.


The 523i, 525d and 530d will be produced at the BMW Plant Chennai. The 535i will be available as a CBU (completely built-up unit) and will have an ex-showroom price of Rs 58,00,000.
The new BMW 5 Series will be available in Alpine White as non-metallic paintwork and in the following metallic colours: Space Grey, Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, Havanna, Cashmere Silver, Deep Sea Blue, Milano Beige, Imperial Blue Brilliant Effect and Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect.

Dakota leather is the standard upholstery for the new BMW 5 Series and is available in the following colour combinations: Oyster / Black, Black / Black, Vento Beige / Vento Beige, Oyster / Oyster dark and Cinnamon Brown / Black. The following interior trims are available: Fine-wood trim Ash Grain Brown and Fine-wood trim 'Fine line" (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA MOTORS UNVEILS ALL-NEW INDICA VISTA DRIVETECH4

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, APRIL30 :
TATA Motors has launched an all-new Indica Vista range, the Indica Vista Drivetech4, with a host of new features and a thrilling driving experience, to take the encouraging market response to the company's new generation car to a new high.

The BS-4 compliant Indica Vista Drivetech4 has a specially designed Eurotech gearbox perfectly mated to the Vista Drivetech4 Quadrajet diesel and Safire petrol engines. It ensures higher torque at low RPMs, minimal vibration, precise gear shifting, longer engine life and cooled exhaust gas recirculation for lower emissions. All these together result in superior handling, exciting zip and a never-before driving experience. The same degree of refinement and driveability is also being offered on BS-3 engines.

The other new features include a 4-spoke tilt-adjustable steering wheel and height-adjustable driver's seat enabling customised driving positions. The flexible 60:40 flip and fold rear seat lends added space for multiple needs. The fully integrated 2-DIN stereo system with Blue 5 and USB port enhance entertainment and communication convenience. Dual airbags (driver and passenger) and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) make it one of the safest cars on Indian roads.

The Indica Vista Drivetech4 series, though in the premium B segment, has been competitively priced, starting respectively from Rs.3.57 lakhs for the Safire petrol range and from Rs. 4.4 lakhs for the Quadrajet diesel range (ex-showroom, Delhi) (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

MARUTI SUZUKI NET PROFIT UP 105% IN 2009-10

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, APRIL 26 :
THE net profit of INDIA'S carmaker Maruti Suzuki India in the fiscal 2009-10 stood at Rs 2,497.6 crore, up 105 per cent over 2008-09. The company’s total income (net of excise) for the year 2009-10 climbed to Rs 30,119.7 crore , a growth of 40 per cent over 2008-09.

The company's board of directors recommended a dividend of 120 per cent for 2009-10 as compared to 70 per cent for the previous year

In the fourth quarter the company registered total income (net of excise) of Rs 8,503.5 crore during January-March 2010, a growth of 30 per cent year on year.

The net profit during January-March 2010 was Rs 656.6 crore, reflecting a growth of 170 per cent over January-March 2009.

The company's total sales were 10,18,365 units; growth of 29 percent over previous fiscal (792,167 units), domestic sales reached 8,70,790 units .A2 segment sales up 23.8 per cent ; A3 segment sales grew 30.8 per cent
Rural sales accounted for 16.5 percent of the company’s total unit sales, up from 9.5 percent in 2008-09
· Export sales were 1,47,575 units

Countries contributing to exports included United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands in Europe. and Algeria, Chile, Indonesia and Australia in non Europe . New markets added in fiscal are South Africa, Hong Kong and Norway. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

MARUTI SUZUKI UNVEILS ALL-NEW WAGONR - THE BLUE EYED BOY

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, APRIL 23 :
INDIA'S favourite family car just got bigger, spacious and more stylish with Maruti Suzuki, the country's number one automobile manufacturer, launching an all-new WagonR - titled endearingly 'the blue eyed boy'.

The new WagonR comes with a new, powerful and highly fuel efficient 998 cc K-series engine, delivering a high fuel efficiency of 18.9 kmpl. It also comes with a new transmission with cable-type gearshift, and a superior suspension technology. Thanks to a brand-new platform, the overall length of the new Wagon R is now increased to 3,595 mm (an increase of 75 mm) with a wheelbase of 2,400 mm - the longest in its class. The new WagonR is also wider and taller; the new dimensions are 1,495 mm and 1,700 mm, respectively.

The new WagonR joins the Maruti Suzuki range of five vehicles in the ever-growing A2 segment. Thanks to this wide choice of vehicles, Maruti Suzuki commands a staggering over 56 per cent in the A2 segment.

On the occasion, Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, "The all-new WagonR carries forward the decade-long leadership and success of the WagonR brand. The new WagonR is a full-model change in terms of superior technology, interiors, looks and styling. The new, larger platform brings in comfort and space while the superior technology of K-series engine delivers more power, greater fuel efficiency and is environment friendly. We are confident that the new WagonR will further strengthen the leadership position of Maruti Suzuki in the A2 segment."

At the heart of the new WagonR is a 998cc three-cylinder K-series engine. This engine delivers a power of 68PS @ 6200rpm and a high torque of 90Nm @ 3500 rpm. With increased power, the new WagonR delivers increased fuel efficiency too - at 18.9 kilometers per litre, amongst the best in mid-A2 segment cars.

The new WagonR comes with a new 5-speed synchromesh transmission technology that incorporates numerous innovations to enhance the power and pleasure combination. The new transmission is equipped with precise gear shift mechanism. This reduces the gear shifting effort due to minimal mechanical losses. The gear ratios in the transmission in the new WagonR are optimized to enhance drivability and improved fuel economy. A reduced clutch-pedal peak-load helps to improve the city driving experience.

The tall boy design and best-in-class adjustable front seats are especially convenient for tall people. With a large wheel base that leads to best-in-class leg space at the rear, the new WagonR seats five people in great comfort with ample leg room and shoulder room. Alongside, the larger doors with wide opening make entry and exit easy, while optimised cushion depth and width on the rear seats increase seating comfort. Wide windscreen ensures uninterrupted panoramic view and adds to the light-filled-spacious-cabin-feel.

All this clubbed with the gigantic boot space makes the new WagonR a perfect smart-family vehicle. While the rear parcel tray improves storage and keeps the users' valuables hidden from prying eyes, a smart integrated tool box in the boot leads to the overall charm.

Storage space gets special attention in the new WagonR. As a unique feature, a handy shopping tray is fitted under front passenger seat. To safeguard the cell-phone camera unit, a soft insert has been introduced to the floor console. These apart, there are useful alcoves on the front console and door sides, a utility hook on the IP, and a 60:40 split rear seat add to user convenience. Two retractable cup/can holders on the driver's and the co-driver's side, and a bottle holder in the centre console add convenience and lead to user delight.

Brand WagonR has been the undisputed leader in its segment for over a decade now. To commemorate the brand's success, the new WagonR - pegged as the 'blue-eyed boy' of the great Indian family - has been styled with a distinctive blue tinge on its head lamps, which is a first-of-its-kind OE feature for A2 segment cars in India. This feature and a classic chrome-engraved 'WagonR' badge on the rear door together celebrate the brand's success with over eight lakh proud WagonR owners.

The new WagonR's aggressive front - bigger and sweeping lamps, wider bumpers that stretch to the corners and flared fenders - coupled with a slanted roof and aerodynamic exteriors impart a forceful, ready-to-go feel.

The deluxe interiors come with soft and subtle blue-silver interior theme, while the dash-integrated music system with AUX-in and 6 band graphic equalizer gives a new age touch.

The new WagonR is high on occupant safety. A rigid cage structure technology alongwith increased frontal impact absorbing area, thanks to greater distance between steering wheel and front bumper, keep the passengers safe. The Vxi variant in the new WagonR is equipped with front and rear fog lamps, rear wiper and washer, rear defogger, dual horn and comes with safety features such as Airbag and ABS as options. A driver-side seat belt indicator is on the dash panel a standard feature on Lxi and Vxi variants. The new WagonR keys are integrated with i-CATS, 4-door central locking and anti-theft alarm system.

The new WagonR comes equipped with a new L-shaped front suspension frame for an enhanced ride comfort. This fine-tuned 3-point suspension is congruous to Indian roads and driving conditions, providing soft relaxed rides along with dynamic handling and lower NVH.

The new design steering wheel can be tilted to suit driver's driving comfort, while the ergonomically designed gear shift knob snugly fits into the driver's palm. Other features include electrically controlled outside rear view mirror. With snug interiors and improved HVAC design, the new Wagon R brings in superior cooling comfort.

A tight turning radius of 4.6 meters makes the new WagonR a favoured drive in peak traffic conditions and tight parking spots. Tubeless tyres, as a standard fitment on the new WagonR, and a ground clearance of 165 mm ensure ride comfort.

The new WagonR is BSIV compliant, ELV compliant and E10 compliant. With the new WagonR, Maruti Suzuki is steadily moving towards the goal of making its full range of vehicles environment friendly, much ahead of the norms being adopting in the country.

The new WagonR is available in three variants Lx, Lxi and Vxi and seven exuberant colours. Metallic Breeze Blue is the signature colour of the new offering. Other body colors are as follows:

" Superior White " Midnight Black " Baker's Chocolate " Breeze Blue
" Fire Brick Red " Silky Silver " Glistening Grey

Introductory ex-showroom prices of the new WagonR in Delhi are: WagonR Lx Rs 3.28 lakh ; WagonR Lxi Rs 3.57 lakh and WagonR Vxi Rs 3.81 lakh . (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

MARUTI REVISES PRICES OF ALL MODELS

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, APRIL 02 :
DUE to sharp increase in the input costs and also introduction of BSIV norms in some models, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has decided to pass on part of this cost impact to customers.

Maruti Suzuki revises prices of its models . The approximate price revision on various models (Ex-showroom, Delhi) ranges from Rs. 1,000 on A-star and Ritz, Rs. 2500 on Estilo, Rs 3000 on Omni, Rs. 3,750 on Swift, Rs. 7,000 on DZire and Rs. 9,000 on SX4.

The withdrawal of introductory prices for the Eeco. The new prices for the Eeco will be up by approximately Rs. 10,000.

Prices have also been revised on the BS-III compliant cars like Maruti 800 and Omni (LPG) by Rs. 3,000 and Gypsy by Rs 10,000. The new prices are applicable with immediate effect.

Accordingly, the company has revised prices of its models. The approximate price revision on various models (Ex-showroom, Delhi) ranges from Rs. 1,000 on A-star and Ritz, Rs. 2500 on Estilo, Rs 3000 on Omni, Rs. 3,750 on Swift, Rs. 7,000 on DZire and Rs. 9,000 on SX4.

The company also announced the withdrawal of introductory prices for the Eeco. The new prices for the Eeco will be up by approximately Rs. 10,000.

Prices have also been revised on the BS-III compliant cars like Maruti 800 and Omni (LPG) by Rs. 3,000 and Gypsy by Rs 10,000. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

SMILE TRAIN INDIA TO USE 6 TATA NANOS FOR HOSPITALS IT SUPPORTS

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

(From L-R) Mr. Ravi Kant, Vice Chairman, Tata Motors , Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman Tata Sons, Mr. Brian Mullaney, co-founder / president, Smile Train  Mr. Carl Peter Foster, Group CEO & MD, Tata Motors at a ceremony handing over 6 Nanos to hospitals supported by Smiletrain (World’s largest cleft charity) at NCPA, Mumbai.

MUMBAI, MARCH 31 :
SMILE Train, the cleft charity, today received six Tata Nano cars at the hands of Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons, for the hospitals it supports in India.

Mr. Tata ceremoniously handed over the keys to Smile Train surgeons from throughout India, in the presence of Smile Train’s co-founder and president, Mr. Brian Mullaney, Smile Train India Regional Director, Mr. Satish Kalra, the Vice Chairman of Tata Motors, Mr. Ravi Kant, and others.

The Nanos will be used by the recipient hospitals to raise awareness for the devastating problem of clefts and the simple procedure, which can correct it, which Smile Train provides for free to any child in need.

Already recognisable on the roads because of their innovative design and style, the new Smile Train Nanos display dramatic before and after pictures of children who have been helped, providing a simple message that clefts are easily correctable.

In India, SmileTrain started with a unique idea of empowering local doctors to help children with clefts in their own communities. Now in its tenth year, Smile Train works with 400 selfless local surgeons in 180 partner hospitals in India and helps over 50,000 Indian children a year, smile for the first time. In ten years, the organisation has helped over 200,000 Indian children.

Children with clefts are forced to live a life of shame and isolation, believing that a cleft is a curse from God. A simple, 45 minute surgery that costs as little as Rs. 12,000 can change a child’s life forever, allowing them to attend school, eventually get a job, and get married. This compelling transformation has been evocatively captured in Smile Pinki, the Oscar-winning Best Short Documentary of 2009.

In addition to creating a new model of working directly with local surgeons, Smile Train completely revolutionised the way clefts were treated throughout the world by utilising cutting-edge technology. To help even more children more efficiently and effectively, the organisation has employed techniques such as the creation of the world’s largest cleft database and has developed award-winning virtual surgery DVDs to train doctors in remote areas of the world.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Brian Mullaney said, “These tiny cars will have a huge impact in alleviating the suffering of desperately poor children and their families throughout India. They will have the highest ‘Smiles Per Gallon’ rating of any car on the road.”

The six Tata Nanos will be used by Astha Plastic Surgery Hospital, Jalgaon (Maharashtra), Sant Parmanand Hospital at Delhi, Varun Hospital, Aligarh (Uttar Pradesh), New Leelamani Hospital, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Dev Kamal Hospital, Ranchi (Jharkhand), and Dr. Jeyasekharan Centre for Cleft Care, Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu). (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA MOTORS BOND CONVERSION OFFER COMPLETED

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

MUMBAI, MARCH 31 :
AS announced earlier, Tata Motors had offered bondholders of their 0 percent JPY 11,760 million and 1 percent US$ 300 million Convertible Bonds an option to convert their bonds into Ordinary Shares during a 5-day period from March 23 to March 29, 2010.

In this period, bondholders could opt to receive a higher number of shares per bond. Bondholders, who did not participate, would continue with all the terms of their bonds prior to this one-off offer.

The offer has met with great success with bondholders representing 93% of the JPY bonds and 76% of US$ series bonds respectively, opting to convert their bonds into Ordinary Shares. The company was able to extinguish debt worth USD 345 million of these bonds at current exchange rates.

As a result of the above offer, the company has today allotted 26.64 million equity shares to the bondholders, who exercised the option to convert these bonds into Ordinary Shares during the offer period.

The offer, managed by Standard Chartered Bank, Citigroup, Credit Suisse and J.P. Morgan, has helped improve the company’s net worth, reduce indebtedness and enhance financial flexibility.

Mr. C. Ramakrishnan, Chief Financial Officer, Tata Motors, said, “The reduced conversion price option made eminent sense from bondholders’ perspective, who got additional value by opting to convert into equity. From the company’s perspective, this exercise is in line with its continued efforts to deleverage its balance sheet.” (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA AUTOCOMP OPENS LASER SCOURING FACILITY

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

PUNE , MARCH 24 :
TATA AutoComp Systems, automotive components manufacturer inaugurated its state-of-the art 'Laser Scouring Facility' today at the Tata AutoComp (Interiors and Plastic Division) plant at Chinchwad, Pune.

The 'Laser Scouring Facility' technology will considerably simplify the construction of airbag flaps, thereby reducing the cost of production significantly. Laser Scouring is a process in which laser creates integrated pre-weakened lines for air bags on the backside of the car instrument panels. A sensor system has been specially designed to prevent the laser from penetrating the material completely. It creates tapped blind holes in a defined row, which weakens the part and breaks open when the air bag is triggered thus ensuring better safety for the passengers.

Mr R S Thakur, Executive Director & COO, Tata AutoComp Systems , said, "At Tata AutoComp our consistent effort is to provide wide range of high quality products and introduce the best and latest technology from across the globe. With the awareness of passenger safety increasing, we are seeing an increase in the number of vehicles that would offer airbags as a standard fitment. Laser scouring for airbag deployment is one of our initiatives to offer Indian OE's state of the art technology. With availability of Laser Scouring in India, the OE's get the benefit of offering better design and finish."

The advantages of Laser Scouring Technology are:
o The scouring process is sensor-controlled, thus the heterogeneity and variations in the thickness of the material can be compensated for
o The depth of the perforated holes is precisely defined even in multilayer composites. Thus the opening force and behavior of integrated airbag flaps can be adapted flexibly.
o Manual finishing is not necessary, thereby enabling 100% traceability of production processes which is of the utmost relevance where safety-related components are concerned
o It allows 100% production control, which for safety-related components is of immense significance. The specific production parameters are recorded on-line.

Mr Arvind Goel, President & Head Business Group, Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd, further added, "Laser Scouring is used to make invisible tear seam on car instrument panels for Air Bag deployment. It is the best available air bag seamless technology, introduced and being provided in India by Tata AutoComp. Globally it has been adapted and used by all leading auto OEMs and we anticipate a huge demand from both domestic and global OEM's based in India. Our new facility in Chinchwad is well equipped to manage this increasing demand." Plastics, Engineering and Vehicle Tracking Systems. Tata AutoComp has 8 joint ventures in partnership with leading companies from the Global Auto Component Industry and has over 40 manufacturing facilities spread across India and China. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA MOTORS TO SET UP HEAVY TRUCK PLANT IN MYANMAR

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, MARCH 22 :
TATA Motors today signed a turnkey contract with Myanmar Automobile & Diesel Industries , an enterprise under the Government of Myanmar's Ministry of Industry-2, for setting up a heavy truck plant, at Magwe, approximately 480 km from Yangon, funded by a line of credit from the Government of India.

The facilities planned at the plant include a highly flexible chassis and frame assembly line along with a cab manufacturing, painting and trimming set-up. The plant is expected to become operational by the last quarter of 2010-11, with a capacity of 1,000 vehicles per year. The capacity can be expanded to 5,000 units. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

RENAULT -NISSAN ALLIANCE OPENS RS 45 BILLION NEW PLANT IN CHENNAI

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

Renault-Nissan Alliance Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn along with Dr. M K Stalin, the Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu pose next to the all -New Nissan Micra.

CHENNAI ,New Delhi, India , MARCH 19 :
RENAULT-NISSAN Alliance Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn has inaugurated the first dedicated Renault-Nissan Alliance vehicle manufacturing plant here which was attended by the representatives of State Government of Tamil Nadu led by Dr Kalaignar M Karunanidhi, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in the presence of Dr. M K Stalin, the Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Also present were Mr. Yoshiro Mori, president, the Japan-India Association & Former Prime Minister of Japan and both the Ambassadors of Japan and France to India .

With an investment of Rs 45 billion ($990 million) and capacity to produce 400,000 units per year at full ramp up, the new Chennai plant will initially employ 1,500 workers at start of production in May 2010. With a supplier park of six companies in Chennai, the company estimates a total of 6,000 jobs will be created in the region.

“Our plant in Chennai represents a key milestone for the Renault Nissan Alliance in India ,” said Carlos Ghosn. “With the new Micra, we have the start of a product offensive in India that is supported by a localized manufacturing facility capable of making products for both Renault and Nissan.”

The first vehicle to be produced at the plant will be the new Nissan Micra, a global sub-compact. The Micra, production for which will commence in May 2010, is the also first vehicle derived from the new V-platform, is destined for the Indian market as well as for export to over 100 countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In 2011, the plant will start production of the Renault Koleos and Fluence, both destined for the Indian market.

The new plant will operate in full compliance with Alliance global manufacturing processes and quality standards. Its production management system, launched for the first time at any plant of Renault and Nissan, is based on mutual knowledge sharing and the best practices from both companies. The new manufacturing process allows the plant to seamlessly mix production of both Renault and Nissan products on same line.

Akira Sakurai, Managing Director and CEO of Renault Nissan Automotive India Private Limited, said: "The opening of any new plant is a significant achievement, but the speed and quality of execution at this plant in Chennai has been exceptional.”

“I want to recognize the support from the state of Tamil Nadu and our employees who have helped made this plant a reality and will lead us to both domestic and export success with the products we are building, continued Sakurai.”

Chennai already plays host to the Renault-Nissan Technology and Business Centre India Private Ltd (RNTBCI) which is contributing to both partners’ global operations in the key areas of advanced research and development, advanced CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), product development, digital vehicle development, information systems development and local and global parts sourcing.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance announced its plans to build a new manufacturing plant in Chennai , India , by the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Tamil Nadu on February 22nd, 2008. The official groundbreaking ceremony took place on June 6th, 2008. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

YAMAHA RECORDS Y-O-Y SALES GROWTH OF 40% IN FEBRUARY

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, MARCH 02:
CONINUING to ride northwards, India Yamaha Motor has registered sales of 25,766 units in February 2010 as compared to 17,407 units in February last year. The company has clocked domestic sales of 16,313 units in February 2010 as compared to 13,848 units in the same month last year. The export figures stood at 9,453 units in February 2010 while in Feb 2009 Yamaha exported 3,559 units.

“Our domestic sales continue to be strong for our premium segment products like YZF-R15, Fazer, FZ-S and FZ-16. Interestingly, these models have also received overwhelming response in overseas market like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangaldesh and Columbia resulting in increased export sales. We are confident of achieving 3.1 lakh units target in domestic market and are aiming to more than double our exports to 1.5 lakh units this year compared to sales in 2009”, said Mr. Yukimine Tsuji, CEO & MD, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd.

The company continues its focus on YES! YAMAHA campaign, which was kick-started in 2009. For Yamaha, this campaign is the first step towards giving value to the customer that he demands and provides the best 3S Experience (Sales, Service & Spares) to the customer so that he always appreciates Yamaha and accepts the brand like the word “YES”. All the company’s efforts and activities revolve around Yes! Yamaha concept whether it’s Products, Service & Spares, Promotion and Dealers. The company is planning to enhance the numbers of Yamaha Bike Station (YBS), an authorized Yamaha Dealership with the Best 3S facility YBS. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

TATA MOTORS FORAYS INTO COMBAT VEHICLE FOR DEFENCE SECTOR

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, FEB 16 :
TATA Motors today announced the launch of a mine protected vehicle, as part of its strategy to enhance the scope of its defence business right up to frontline combat vehicles. The company has displayed the vehicle at the ongoing DEFEXPO India 2010.

The company, which has been a supplier to India 's defence and paramilitary forces since 1958, already offers an extensive portfolio of troop carriers and logistics vehicles. The launch of combat and tactical vehicles and equipment will allow it to leverage the entire defence mobility spectrum.

Mr. P.M. Telang, Managing Director (India Operations) of Tata Motors, said, "Our aim is to participate in the entire defence value chain. Besides consolidating our traditional supplies, going forward we will also participate in creating vehicles and equipment specific to the defence sector as also offer our expertise in upgrades and life extension programmes. In addition to our own initiatives, we will form appropriate partnerships and harness the capabilities of our own subsidiaries and other Tata Group companies."

The Tata Mine Protected Vehicle: The Tata Mine Protected Vehicle is based on modular flexibility and integrates V shaped hull blast protection technology, ideally suited for counter-insurgency operations. The two roof-top hatches for observation, 9 firing ports and a 360-degree roof mounted rotating turret for an LMG/HMG weapon ensures maximum fire power. Its combat survivability comes from all round NIJ Level 3 BP protection and customer/mission specific underbelly blast protection.

The air-conditioned crew cabin also renders itself to multiple configurations for different combat roles, like a command post, emergency evacuation ambulance or a troop carrier. Crew and seating layouts from 8 to 12 troops can meet these varied operational requirements.

The 245 PS diesel engine generates a top speed of 100 kmph and a gradeability of 60%. The 860 mm ground clearance and fordability of 1000 mm ensures mobility even in the toughest terrain. Space for appropriate communication equipment and ADNAV system makes it operational even at night and in adverse weather conditions.

Besides the Army, Tata Motors will also offer the vehicle to paramilitary and police forces. The company has the ability to mobilise adequate manufacturing capacity, and will deploy its dealer/service network across the country for maintenance and service.

The company is also displaying the Tata 8x8, a unique and versatile high mobility platform, capable of being configured to a host of military applications like missile/artillery and air defence weapons, surveillance equipment, communications and electronics warfare. It is already becoming the platform of choice to various weapon / missile system integrators in the role of a cost effective launcher, carrier, radar pedestal, generator van and command post.

Its 380/420 PS engine generates a speed of over 80 kmph and gradeability of up to 60%. With a fordability of 1200 mm, trench crossing ability of 2 metres, ground clearance of 400 mm, a compensating bogey suspension, wide wheel tracks it can operate under severe terrain conditions. The tiltable military cabin, compatible to up-armouring and NBC protection on demand, and traditional chassis frame ensures free accessibility to all major aggregates and lends itself to easy maintainability. The wide cabin windscreens ensure good all-around visibility.

Tata Light Specialist Vehicle (LSV): The LSV is a single platform to undertake diverse missions such as reconnaissance, counter-insurgency operations for special forces and even as an ambulance. It has an adaptive automatic transmission, 60% gradeability, 750 mm fordability, 300 mm vertical obstacle climbing ability, 45% approach angle, 45% departure angle, 250 mm ground clearance and a top speed of 100 kmph. The vehicle can operate in a temperature range of -20 degree to +55 degree Celsius.

The LATC is designed for movement of troops for counter insurgency operation, with protection against small arm fire, floor protected against hand grenade blasts, and fuel tank bolstered with explosive suppressant material.

The air-conditioned Armoured Safari, offering NIJ Level 3 protection for VVIPs, is equipped with features like hand grenade protection for underbelly, run flat tyres, five exit doors, explosive suppressant material in the fuel tank, extra wide footsteps for escorts and RYG (Red Yellow Green) indicator for escort vehicles. It comes with comfortable interiors, plush seating, and a fine-tuned suspension.

The Armoured Sumo can carry six troops for counter-insurgency operations especially in hilly off-road terrain. Six firing ports and a roof hatch ensure maximum fire power. It can move from 4x2 to 4x4 mode whilst on the move. It too offers NIJ Level 3 protection, with underbelly protection against hand grenades, run flat tyres, and five exits. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

MERU CABS LAUNCHES CARD PAYMENT FACILITY IN CAPITAL

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, 09 :
MERU Cabs, India’s major radio cab service provider in India, has introduced brand new convenient alternative payment facility for passengers in Delhi. This alternate payment option is already implemented in Bangalore and Hyderabad.

The company has tied up with Axis Bank as its merchant bank to facilitate card transactions in its cabs. Visa and Master Cards debit/credit cards will be accepted for fare payment, thereby making life easier for the Meru passengers. Also Meru Cabs has introduced various promotion programmes to promote payment by cards. Keeping in mind the concept of plastic money, Meru Cabs has launched this feature so as to provide a hassle free service to the passengers.

“Plastic money is more convenient and viable payment option today. We got a feedback from our consumers regarding their preference for payment through a credit card. Consumers today prefer the convenience of plastic money over hard cash and often fall short while paying for their fares, making it inconvenient for them as they have to hunt for an ATM. By providing credit/debit card facilities in our cab directly, we are confident that our passengers will find it more convenient and hassle-free,” said Rajesh Puri, CEO, Meru Cabs. It is a highly secured application, since the product is almost fully automated. It’s inbuilt in the MDT, and the card is swiped in front of the passenger.

He added, “Cities like New York, Boston and Tokyo have the facility of paying by cash or card in the radio cabs. In fact, it is mandatory in these cities for the radio cabs to have a card payment option for the passengers. Our goal is to replicate these revolutionary services in India and offer our passengers a truly comfortable & world-class travel experience.”

With a total of 4800 cabs the company has been constantly scaling up its presence in the four operational cities - Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Also its presence at the airports of the four cities has helped in adding to the international class provided by these airports , he said.

The company charges Rs 15 km from passengers. Given the new initiatives to expand presence in major cities the company expects to be Rs 200 crore company by the year-end. The company has been upgrading its technology regularly. Recently, the company has implemented an Oracle ERP system, which has been implemented by Accenture, which makes Meru Cabs the first radio cabs service company in the world to implement ERP systems. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

APOLLO TYRES Q3 TOPLINE JUMPS 108 % ; NET PROFIT AT RS 187 CRORE

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JAN 31 :
THE consolidated revenues of Apollo Tyres reached Rs 2300 crore for the third quarter of FY '10 ended December 31 , 2009 and closed in on Rs 6000-mark for 9 months of the current fiscal .

Speaking on the results Onkar S Kanwar, Chairman, Apollo Tyres said: “It’s been a remarkable performance both in terms of the October-December quarter, as well as the nine months of the year. "

The net sales of the company rose by 108 percent to Rs 22.96 billion (Rs 2296 crore) in the third quarter ended FY 2009-10 as against Rs 11 billion (Rs 1101 crore) in the correspondin prevoius fiscal 2008-09 . The net profit grew multiple times to Rs 1.8 billion (Rs 187 crore) from Rs 89 million (Rs 8.9 crore).

The consolidated financials take into account Apollo Tyres’ India Operations, revenues of Apollo Tyres South Africa and Apollo Vredestein B V, in the Netherlands, acquired in May 2009.

Net sales of the company moved up by 47 per cent to Rs 13.2 billion in the third quarter FY 2009-10 as against corresponding period in FY 2008-09 (Rs 1323 crore) from Rs 9 billion (Rs 903 crore). The operating profit was up by 283 percent at Rs 2 billion (Rs 205 crore) from Rs 536 million (Rs 53.6 crore) ,Net profit scaled the Rs 1 billion (Rs 102 crore) mark from Rs 55 million (Rs 5.5 crore).

For the first three quarters of the year, April to December 2009, Apollo Tyres has notched incremental growth quarter-on-quarter. As a result its consolidated turnover for the first 9 months has reached a milestone figure of nearly Rs 6000 crores or Rs 60 billion. While India Operations alone accounts for Rs 37.2 billion or Rs 3724 crores for the first 9 months of the year.

For the nine months (FY2009-10 (April-December) net sales rose by 62 percent to Rs 59.7 billion (Rs 5977 crore) from Rs 36.8 billion (Rs 3686 crore) in FY2008-09 .
The net profit grew by 372 petrcent to Rs 3.9 billion (Rs 390 crore) from Rs 827 million (Rs 82 crore)

From India operationsd the company's net sales moved up by 26 percent in 9-month FY2009-10 ( April - December) to Rs 37.2 billion (Rs 3724 crore) from Rs 29.6 billion (Rs 2960 crore) in the corresponding FY 2008-09. The operating profit was 179 percent higher around Rs 6 billion (Rs 601 crore) from Rs 2.1 billion (Rs 215 crore). Net profit rose by 382 percent to Rs 2.98 billion (Rs 298 crore) from Rs 619 million (Rs 62 crore). (editor@thesynergyonline.com)

BAJAJ GRANTED 'EXHAUS TEC' PATENT IN EUROPE

Thesynergyonline Automobile Bureau

NEW DELHI, JAN 27 :
BAJAJ Auto has been granted 'ExhausTEC' patent in Europe . The Indian Patent Office had granted the “ExhausTEC” patent to Bajaj in March 2009. The European grant awarded now after a stringent examination, is a reaffirmation of the same.

BAJAJ Auto’s invention named 'ExhausTEC'improves low range / mid range torque in a single cylinder four stroke engine. Bajaj’s patented DTS-i twin spark technology and ExhausTEC together deliver unbeatable “fuel efficiency + performance” combination to its customers.

This European patent derives priority from the corresponding Indian patent application dated August 6, 2004 and is valid till August 5, 2024.

The automobile major claims to be in an enviable position of its being the automotive manufacturer to offer a unique package of two path breaking technologies in a motorcycle to its customers – “DTS-i” that delivers superior performance (higher power output with better fuel efficiency) compared to conventional four stroke engines and “ExhausTEC” that offers improved low end and mid range torque – a duo that delivers competitive edge to Bajaj of high performance and fuel efficiency amidst today’s motorcycling world that is increasingly dominated by products offering mere improvements of prevalent technologies. Since August 2004, Bajaj has manufactured and sold over 5 million motorcycles with this technology. (editor@thesynergyonline.com)