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Preview on TVS 125cc flame

Photo from The Hindu

TVS 125cc Flame:

Out of the seven TVS launches, this is the hottest launch not only for the sake of name – the flame. This 125cc bike which replaces the 125cc victor, has already triggered fire between the India’s top two wheeler manufacturer. Bajaj Auto has decided to sue TVS Motor for infringement of its patented engine technology. Bajaj Auto claims that TVS has used its digital twin spark ignition technology (DTSi) in recently unveiled TVS’s 125cc bike Flame.

Design and features:

Flame sports a new design and embraces the contemporary black theme. Flame borrows the headlamp,front fender, attractive rear view mirrors, body coloured shock absorber springs and special engine cowl from its big brother apache. TVS says that the styling of the Flame is inspired by the Delta wing design found in the latest fighter jets. So, it has adopted a triangular (DeltaEdge) design theme to many of the Flame’s features.TVS 125cc Flame is packed with exciting features like attractive body graphics, alloy wheels, disc brake at the front, electric start and handle bar weights to control vibrations.

CC-VTi engine:

TVS which used VTi(Variable Timing Ignition) engine for its economic bike ‘centra’ now developed a more sophiscated engine for the new 125cc flame. 125cc Flame sports the india’s first three-valve CC VTi (controlled combustion variable timing intelligent) engine. The engine’s produces maximum power of 10.5 bhp at 8,250 rpm. Comparing the figures flame 125cc leads over the Honda shine, suzuki zeus, hero Honda splendour, hero honda Glamour but trails to yamaha gladiator and Bajaj discover 125cc atleast in the paper. TVS developed the new engine for the 125cc flame in collaboration of AVL of Austria. Similar to the Bajaj’s DTSi, flames CC-VTi engine hosts two spark plugs which are located at opposite ends of the combustion chamber. CC-VTi engine is breathing and expelling through 3 valves (first time a 125cc motorcycle featuring 3 valves). The engine features two different intake ports called swirl port and power port. The swirl port creates a swirl motion of the intake air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, thereby leading to a more efficient burning of lean air-fuel mixture and helping improve the bike’s fuel efficiency. In the power throttle mode, the power port opens to allow a high flow rate of the air-fuel mixture to deliver high power.

update: More images/photos of TVS 125cc flame

TVS 125cc Flame side view/delta exhaust/split taillamps/headlamp/instrument panel/tank mounted indicators

According to TVS, the styling of 125cc flame is inspired by Delta wing design found in fighter jet. This innovative and futuristic aerodynamic stying what TVS terms as ‘deltaedge’ will help the 125cc flame slice through the wind like fighter jets. Flame’s exciting dual tonecolours and graphics makes it irrestible.The 125cc Flame boast several styling elements such as deltaedge headlamps,tank embedded deltaedge trafficators, LCD digital speedometer, dual lens tailamp and a sporty deltaedge exhaust. 125cc Flame’s styling elements has some practicality too

* 125cc Flame’s tank embedded clear lens indicators will help you save the indicators in traffic. if a thought for the rear(indicators) is also given it could be more useful.

* First time a 125cc bike features LCD digital speedometer. TVS 125cc flame feature an analogue speedometer but other gauges such odometer,digital clock, fuel gauge, mileage meter are embedded in the digital console. No rpm meter or tachometer for this 125cc flame.

* 125cc flame’s dual lens tailamp will loot the exclusivity from karizma owners.

* Though TVS says deltaedge headlamp is to provide more aerodynamic efficiency, the front cowl looks thinner which does not reflect bike’s chracters. Trouble for 150cc Hero Honda cbz xtreme and Honda’s unicorn owners too a 125cc bike features similar styled headlamp.

* 125cc Flame’s sporty deltaedge exhaust is not just styling element but also to deliver the smoothest of sounds,lowest emissions and excellent performance.

For 125cc Flame in action and for its technical specification visit www.tvsflame.com

Engine war – Bajaj vs TVS

Bajaj to sue TVS

Bajaj DTSi (vs) TVS CC-VTi

Bajaj Auto Ltd is planning to sue its rival TVS Motor Co for “infringing” upon intellectual property rights(IPR) of its patented digital twin spark ignition (DTSi) technology. Bajaj Auto’s move to sue TVS comes two days after TVS unveiled its latest 125 cc bike ‘Flame’ with Controlled Combustion Variable Timing Intelligent (CC-VTi) technology. TVS had claimed that its 125cc ‘Flame’ is powered by an engine with CC-VTi technology, which features two different intake ports called swirl port and power port. TVS earlier used VTi(Variable Timing Ignition) engine for its economic bike ‘centra’. Bajaj Auto claims that the TVS has used its digital twin spark ignition technology (DTSi) in recent TVS models including the 125 cc bike, Flame.

“This is a case of IPR infringement issue. Prima facie we have a strong case. While we have had Chinese companies infringing our patented technology, this is the first time a fellow Indian company is doing it to us,” Bajaj Auto Ltd (BAL) CEO (Two-Wheelers) S Sridhar said. He also said, “We are shocked to see TVS using our patented technology for its 125cc Flame motorcycle.”

He said the company was convinced that there was a clear case of IPR violation by TVS on three counts and the company’s legal department was preparing to go to court at the earliest. “The first is the purpose for which they are doing it (use of twin spark ignition for enhanced performance and better mileage). Secondly, the size (of engine) is same and third, construction of engine is also the same,” Sridhar added. Mr Nandi Bajaj auto Marketing manager said that the new bike’s spark plugs were similar to those present in Bajaj’s DTSi bikes (two spark plugs located at opposite ends of the combustion chamber). Bajaj contends that TVS Motor’s 125 cc motor cycle also has spark plugs located at opposite ends of the compression chamber. Since location is the key to fuel efficiency and emission control, the design of TVS Motor’s vehicle infringes on their proprietary know-how.

Sridhar said the company’s lawyers were looking into the matter and would decide on the next course of action. “We will not let the bike (Flame) go under production with that engine”, he added.

This would be the second time in a year that Bajaj Auto would be taking legal action over infringement of its trademark rights. Early in February, Bajaj auto major took legal action against Chinese bike makers Taian Chiran Machinery Company, which had cloned its flagship Pulsar bike.
Although the twin spark plug system is not the first in the world, as bike makers such as Ducati had been using the same technology (twin spark plugs) on bigger engine capacity bikes (800cc-1000cc), Bajaj claims to be the first company to have used the same technology on smaller engine capacity bikes (150cc-220cc).

Bajaj holds the Indian patent for its DTSi(Digital Twin Spark ignition engine) which it uses for the pulsar’s, discover’s and scotter kristal. Recently, Bajaj unveiled its new engine DTS-Si(Digital Twin Spark Swirl Induction) and plans a new bike called eXceed for this engine. TVS 125 cc motor cycle ‘Flame’ is in direct competition with Bajaj’s Discover motorcycle and the upcoming new Exceed model.

TVS has not made any statement on this issue.

update 1: TVS replied to the charges

TVS Motors denied the charge. “TVS has not infringed on anyone’s technology. It’s our own technology developed by years of research at our Hosur facility,” said TVS Motors spokesperson Cecil K Dewars.

Senior executives of TVS Motors said that the company has been spending about 3% of its total sales, or about Rs 50 crore, on R&D, which ”resulted in the development of the new engine.”

“A substantial investment on R&D in the past three to four years has led to the creation of the 3-valve engine,” said an executive, adding that “the Controlled Combustion Variable Timing Intelligent technology (CC-VTi), has also been introduced in our new 125-cc bike Flame. It has been developed in collaboration with AVL Austria and there is no question of any imitation.”

Prasad Narsimhan, senior vice-president (marketing), TVS Motors, said, “A bike can have two spark plugs… it’s nothing unusual. We have also incorporated three valves on the same engine, which is the first of its kind in India. Bajaj Auto is free to do what it wants.”

Mr Venu Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said that TVS was a “principled company” and would not do anything unethical. “We believe we have not violated anybody’s property,” he said, adding that the company could defend itself in the courts, if necessary.

update 2: TVS hits back

TVS Motor Company plans to counter the Bajaj Auto by filing a suit against the Bajaj Auto if the latter does not withdraw its allegations that TVS infringed on Bajaj’s proprietary know-how. “We have been advised to initiate action for libel against Bajaj Auto Ltd and we in turn have advised our lawyers to put Bajaj Auto Ltd on notice that unless the malicious allegations are withdrawn and regrets expressed, TVS would file a suit for damages in a sum of Rs 250 crore,” says a company release.

“The allegation of Bajaj Auto is ridiculous and can be established by their own admission that the invention in issue – the application of twin spark plug is a known technology used extensively all over the world for decades and therefore, in patent law, it is a known prior art,” it says.

Indian Formula One(F1) team

Mallya ‘s F1 dream:

If you are person who worries “even though India gets an F1 circuit in 2009, what’s the use if there is no Indian driver in the circuit”. This buzz will excite you like anything. Indian liquor baron Vijay Mallya of UB group has reportedly bidding for the Spyker Formula 1 team. The deal is reputed to be in the region of 80 million euros. Mallya and Mol said in a statement: “(The) offer has been accepted by the Board of Spyker Cars N.V. and exclusivity has been granted to the consortium Orange India Holdings Sarl to proceed with due diligence … to achieve completion within 30 days.”

Spyker is the same team which ejected the indian driver Narain Karthikeyan(India’s only F1 driver) for failing to meet their USD11.7 million demand. The Jordan team was taken over and renamed Midland for the 2006 season and it was renamed as spyker for 2007 season. ( Dutch sports car maker Spyker bought the team from Midland in September 2006). Near the end of 2005, Karthikeyan announced he would not be driving for Midland the following year to secure his seat on the team.

Returning to the story, if the bid actually suceeds, one can expect prominent Kingfisher Airlines branding on the F1 car, and Indian drivers Narain karthikeyan & Karun Chandhok – currently participating in the GP2 series in the F1 circuit soon. However, Mallya will continue to sponsor Panasonic Toyota team – formula one’s second most costliest team on the circuit. The teams that Mallya eyed were Honda, Super Aguri, Spyker -Ferrari and Torro Rosso but finally settled with spyker. Earlier this month, Michiel Mol stepped down as CEO from Spyker’s road car division, and Hans Hugenholtz was appointed in his place, reportedly because Mol was interested in purchasing a share of the Spyker F1 team, leading to a conflict of interest. UB group chairman Vijay Mallya joined hands with the Michiel and Jan Mol consortium in a jointly (US) $110m bid. It is not known what the new name for the Silverstone based team, also called Jordan and Midland in recent years, will be, but the joint consortium is called ‘Orange India’.

As India will host its first formula one in 2009 (which will be official when IOA (Indian Olympic Association) will sign an agreement with formula one) Delhi may be the host for the Indian F1. Vijay Mallaya has been working for the deal for past many years. India was visited by hi- profile F1 players like Schumi and his brother Ralf Schumacher.

About spyker:

Dutch manufacturer of hand-built vehicles, Spyker Cars NV, owns the Spyker Formula One team, which it inherited from Midland for $107m in 2006. The team has since plunged into a financial crisis. Spyker posted a net loss of 29.9 million euros in the first half of the year, up from a loss of 1.1 million euros in the year-ago period. It has said it expects to make a loss this year. The Formula One team had a 13 million euro loss. The team’s journey started in September 2006 at the Italian Grand Prix when Spyker Cars NV acquired Midland F1 Racing, formerly Jordan Grand Prix, from the Midland Group. At the following Grand Prix in China, the team’s new livery, a combination of the Dutch national colour orange and black, was launched on track for the first time. In an exciting new development, the team signed a major new title partnership deal in March’07 that saw it rebranded the Etihad Aldar Spyker Formula One Team. Spyker had entered this year’s championship under its own name, with drivers Adrian Sutil and Christijan Albers. In July Albers was dropped after one of his personal sponsors apparently did not keep up payments. Team test driver Markus Winkelhock stood in for the European grand prix, ace driver Sakon Yamamoto was subsequently hired for the rest of the season.

India and the Formula one:

India has long been on the Formula one’s radar, with Hyderabad considered as a potential race venue but as the Chandrababu Naidu chief backer of the project was voted out in the Andhra Pradesh assembly elections India’s Formula one dream remains the dream till 2007. India’s history with formula one has been great, India’s first Formula One driver Narain Karthikeyan made his debut in 2005 with Jordan (now midland), he is now the test driver for william. In 2004, TCS provide IT and engineering services for the development of the Ferrari‘s Formula 1 racing car. But as India clocks more than 9% GDP I believe things will change in future. India could host a grand prix in Delhi as early as 2009, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone said on January this year. “The government of Delhi I think really wants Formula One in India and I am optimistic that maybe we will be able to host our first race in 2009? Mallya said.

TVS Apache RTR FI, Flame 125cc, 110cc star city & scooty teenz electric

TVS rocksssssss!!!

Could you believe, an auto manufacturer unveiling 7 products in a single ceremony. Most of us cannot! When TVS told (while announcing the first quarter results) that the true benefit of TVS R&D will kick in only in the coming months, not everyone take it serious. Now most of us have to feel sorry for that, over a night TVS has become aggresive, innovative whatever the words we find in the dictionary. The company which invests around Rs 30 crore a year in R&D has now begins to showcase its potential. TVS plans to invest three per cent of its turnover in coming years too.

TVS Motor Company on August 30th rolled out seven new vehicles at a function branded Dhoom 7, in its new Rs 125-crore three-wheeler plant in Hosur. TVS Motors unveiled seven new products in a single day – a first-of-its-kind in the industry. TVS new products includes a new 125cc bike Flame, a 110cc variant of StaR City, an electric variant of Scooty Teenz and a fuel injected Apache RTR 160. TVS also marked its foray into the three wheeler segment by unveiling three variants(petrol, CNG and LPG versions) of its new three-wheeler. With all these TVS disproved the dictum “Rome cannot be built in a day”. TVS has build it! here are those builds

TVS Apache RTR 160 FI:

The Apache RTR 160 has been upgraded with electronic fuel injection(EFI) and becomes Apache RTR 160 Fi. The EFI technology has enabled TVS to boost peak power of this bike. While pricing has not been announced, this variant is expected to be about Rs 5,000 more compared with the non-EFI model.

TVS 125cc Flame:

TVS 125cc Flame sports the india’s first three-valve CC VTi (controlled combustion variable timing intelligent) engine. The CCVTi engine not only reduces the carbon dioxide but also cuts down carbon monoxide production by 70 percent. TVS new engine has been developed in collaboration of AVL of Austria and TVS expects to manufacture about 35,000 units a year. I’m sure that the new 125cc bike Flame and the new Apache EFI 160 will be the technology showcases for TVS this year. The 125cc Flame will replace the 125cc victor. Bikes from victor family is almost over.

TVS 110cc Star city:

Because of the poor sales TVS has already stopped the prouduction of its 110cc victor earlier this year. Now TVS reenters the segment through the new 110cc star city. TVS star city is the best seller in its segment. Though the star city badge is used, the 110cc star city is a completely new bike.

TVS scooty Teenz Electric:

The Scooty Teenz electric vehicle has been built on the same platform as the earlier two-stroke version of the Teenz. Teenz Electric will sport imported electric motor and is expected to reach a top speed of 40 kph and would be capable of a maximum range of 50 km per charge. Teenz electric will come in three motor power variants.

Gasoline, LPG & CNG three wheelers:

Indian three-wheeler market is estimated at 5.4 lakh units a year, of which 3.6 lakh units come from the passenger segment. The three-wheelers that were rolled out today sport 200cc, two-stroke engines that comply with the emission and noise norms. Tamilnadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradhesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Delhi together constitute about 90 per cent of the overall market for passenger three-wheelers. TVS which hopes to manufacture about 1 lakh units is also working on a four-stroke engine platform which will be launched within the next one year.

In the three wheler industry the market leader was Bajaj Auto, accounting for a 57 per cent share. But during April-July this year, Piaggio cornered a 41 per cent share, against 42 per cent for Bajaj. Bajaj Auto’s products are priced in the range of Rs 56,000-75,000 (ex-factory). TVS is likely to price its three wheelers a bit lower. TVS aims to capture at least 30 per cent of the three-wheeler market in the next three years. The petrol version of the three-wheeler market is expected to grow at 7-8 per cent and the diesel version at 10-12 per cent.

Price and the Launch:

All the products – Apache RTR FI, 125cc CC VTi Flame, 110cc star city, scooty teenz electric and new threewheelers are expected to be launched in a phased manner between October and November 2007 and prices will be announced prior to the launch.

Not yet finished:

After the rollout ,TVS Chairman and Managing Director Venu Srinivasan told that ”six new platforms of two wheelers will be launched in a space of 15 months, besides a new scooter by early next financial year”. TVS plans to roll out the CNG version of its two-wheelers in january, besides launching hybrid vehicles(a hybrid scooty). CNG version will be limited to 100 and 125 cc motorcycles. TVS aims to export half a million two-wheelers from the current level of around 1,30,000 vehicles. This was apart from the production at its Indonesian plant, which went on stream recently. TVS also aims to invest an additional Rs 200 crore in the Indonesian plant over the next two years. In the three wheeler segment TVS will come out with a cargo version of the three-wheeler. The cargo version of the three-wheeler would be in the diesel category at a payload capacity of one-tonne. The vehicle is fitted with a higher capacity engine with the peak torque at lower rpm to take care of gradability without frequent gearshifts. TVS also aims to export the three-wheelers and is looking at an opportunity to assemble them its Indonesia plant in about a year\’s time.

Creator’s word:

on new launches..

“This is the first step to make the announcement of TVS as a young Indian multinational company. We have done significant amount of hard work in the last three years, and now 2007 will mark the emergence of new TVS,”

“Each new rollout signals avowed intent on the part of TVS to regain market share and momentum within the industry. The new offerings are targeted at different segments of the two- and three-wheeler customers with emphasis on superior technology, styling and engine capabilities,”

“Each new roll-out signals intent to regain market share and momentum within the industry,”

“The electric scooter would make a two-wheeler affordable to own and run for the school-girl or housewife even in small towns. It has the build quality and reliability that TVS is known for,”

on CNG two and three wheelers…

The auto industry has to make its best effort to make a green revolution by developing the technology of the future

“The CNG is just an alternate source of fuel for us. And it can be on any platform – maybe a motorcycle or a scooter. But it will be a motorcycle,”

“We have the technology for CNG-powered two- and three-wheelers. We will launch CNG-powered two-wheelers in January,”

“At present availability of CNG is restricted in states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra and Delhi. But with most of the country likely to be covered by CNG pipelines by 2009 it will be able to cater to 60 per cent of the Indian motorcycle market.”

“This vehicle has been designed, keeping in mind both the auto driver and passenger in mind. The LPG and CNG versions will save 30-50 per cent fuel, compared with the present petrol models in the market,”

“the three wheelers and the two wheelers would re-emphasise TVS war against global warming by reducing emissions and increasing fuel efficiently, even while introducing new technologies and alternate fuels”

on sales prospect & investment..

“We are expecting flat growth during the festival period of October-December. We had strengthened our portfolio and entered the 125cc executive segment with Flame, that will being incremental sales and help us achieve positive sales in 2008,”

“We are targeting major metros such as Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad and the neighbouring markets of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Africa for exports. Despite a general slump in the automobile sector, three-wheelers have shown consistent growth. There is tremendous demand from smaller cities and towns and our product has been customised to meet the demand of small operators,”

We will invest Rs 50-60 crore every year to increase our capacities and launch new products.

Here’s the CNBC/ CNN-IBN Auto show video showing TVS Scooty Teenz Electric, TVS Flame 125cc and TVS Apache RTR 160 FI

Mahindra’s axe – the Indian Humvee

Mahindra ready to axe

India is all set to get its first high mobility multipurpose-wheeled vehicle or the Humvee, christened Mahindra Axe. Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) indian Humvee is ready to serve the Indian army’s and shortly for the civilian space too. First we will check out what is humvee and why it is so popular?

the Humvee..

The Humvee was first built in the 80s by American Motors for defence purposes and a civilian variant, the Hummer, came into being in the 90s. In 1998, the Hummer brand name was sold to General Motors, and while the US auto major markets and sells the brand, the Humvee is still manufactured by American Motors. There are variants the world over for Humvee like the Greek and Russian Kornet or the Toyota-crafted Megacruiser, but none so far from the subcontinent. The commercial Hummer vends in American showrooms from $30,000 to $55,000, depending on the variant — roughly between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 22 lakh. In 2005 General Motors tested a hydrogen powered Humvee called H2H. The H2H uses the Hummer H2’s standard 6-liter V8 engine, which delivers 134 kilowatts (180 horsepower) under hydrogen power with the addition of a supercharger. The 350-bar compressed hydrogen fuel system includes three carbon-fiber fuel tanks, storing a total of 5.5 kilograms of hydrogen. Despite all that fuel storage, the 2950-kg vehicle can go only 97 km (60 miles) after a fill-up.

Desi humvee from Mahindra:

Let’s check out the Indian humvee! M&M’s Axe is the Indian answer to the iconic Hummer, It’s muscular and capable of navigating through any terrain. Totally ,the Axe is Nothing short of a America’s Hummer and it will replace the Indian Army’s Mahindra Jeeps. According to Brigadier Khutub A Hai, CEO, Mahindra defence systems the Axe was designed with help from an overseas designer. An absolutely new platform is used for developing the Axe and it is developed to suit the Indian needs. Axe has been developed totally indigenously and it soft top. Mahindra has developed a petrol version of the axe for the special forces of a foreign country while the diesel one is for the Indian Army. Mahindra will initially import the engines for the Axe later it will strap its own engine into the Axe. Axe’s petrol version uses a more than 4 litre GM Votec engine (which powers the Chevy Blazer) while the diesel uses a 2.7 litre Ssangyong diesel (which powers the Rexton). Mahindra has been testing the axe ranging from 150hp to 300hp to 400hp. The transmission system for the Axe is a Mercedes Benz one. According to Mahindra The diesel axe offers around 8-9 km per litre while the petrol axe offers 6/7 km per litre. The Axe has a payload of 120 kg with a 3500 GVW. Axe’s biggest USP is its suspension system (it’s an all-wheel independent suspension vehicle) which gives its extreme mobility. Mahindra has already bagged an order from a foreign army for 215 units of Axe which 15 are being shipped right away. Mahindra is looking to export this axe to countries like malaysia next year (diesel version) and for Africa, Gulf, UAE, Jordan.

images:Mahindra Axe’s rear/interiors/exteriors

images from www.militaryphotos.net

Mahindra’s new plant:

Mahindra is in the process of setting up a new arm, Mahindra Special Military Vehicles Ltd. The new plant will make and supply defence vehicles like the Axe and any future military specific models developed by Mahindra. Mahindra’s new company will have its own manufacturing plant outside Delhi in Faridabad on a 6-acre plot. Initial investments are pegged at about Rs 50 crore.

Axe civilian version:

Mahindra has a long and successful record designing Jeeps and SUVs for military and civilian use. There’s a lot of visible commonality between the Axe and a several of Mahindra’s own SUVs.Hence not alone the Indian army is gifted, we too! Yes, Mahindra is planning a civilian version of the Axe.The civilian version of axe will be ready by 2009 with an automatic transmission. Axe’s civillian version will be homologated with styling and other changes. But it will use a Mahindra driveline. The basic characteristic of performance will be the same but the looks will be different like the Humvee and Hummer. For the civilian version of axe the engine displacement will be lowered and there will be cosmetic changes on the dashboard. But the Mahindra wants to keep the suspension and platform will be unchanged. Axe civilian verison will be only diesel and with automatic transmission. Mahindra will showcase the axe at the 2008 delhi Auto Expo. Mahindra’s commercial Axe is expected to be priced roughly between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 22 lakh.

Mahindra eyes American market:

We have already reported that Mahindra is seriously planning to make an American debut. With the axe in Mahindra’s hands, it is making the dream comes true. Infact as Mahindra plans to enter the world’s toughest market United States it is developing automatic transmission for its future SUV range(possibly for Mahindra’s ingenio and Scorpio eagle 2.2L CRDe). This transmission(automatic) will be used for the axe as well. Mahindra will begin selling its SUVs, axe civlian version and pick-up trucks in the United States from 2009 through Global Vehicles USA Inc. Mahindra has already formulated its plans to introduce the scorpio getaway in the US in 2009. A nightmare for the america’s big trio – Ford, Daimlerchrysler and General Motors is on the way.

New mercedes C class

Merc’s new weapon:Mercedes has rolled out its new C-class in western markets in June 2007. Daimlerchrysler is facing one of its toughest times in india due of the advent of its arch rival BMW. BMW sold nearly 340 3- series cars during the april to june this year while the early entrant Mercedes is managed to sell only 235 during the same period. The C class not only fails to meet the peer it trails its cousins too. Mercedes E class and S class is witnessing maximum record growth. To counter the BMW threat and revive the glory Daimlerchrysler will launch the new C-class once it clears stocks of current c-class.

The new c-class is the first mercedes saloon being marketed in the west as a sporty sedan. Yes, the classical Merc gets a new spory avatar through the new c-class. New c-class has a sporty exterior theme, single mould interiors and many advanced features like Agility control and LINGUATRONIC voice control system. It seems Merc is pulling up its socks to face the bavarians in india. Let’s check out the new c-class!

Engine and Transmission:

Autocar reported that Mercedes will retain the 1.8L and 2.1L for the 2008 C-class to keep cost down. But internationally Mercedes – Benz has revamped the complete set of engine for the new C-class. The retuned C200 KOMPRESSOR now develops 15 kW(20 hp) more than before. C200k now has an output of 135 kW(184 hp) and generates its maximum torque of 250 newton metres from 2800 rpm. When accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h, the C 200 KOMPRESSOR is claimed to be 0.5 seconds faster than its predecessor. The engineers in Stuttgart have also made improvements to the engine, turbocharger and common-rail direct injection engine by modifying more than 90 components. As a result of these measures the new C 200 CDI has 11% more output than the preceding model, with 100 kW(136 hp) versus the previous 90 kW(122 hp). Both the retuned engines are claimed to offer higher fuel efficiency than its predecessor. 5 speed automatic and 6 speed manual transmission will be mated to this engine. As with the 5-speed automatic, you can also choose to shift gears manually either through the gear stick or with the Sport, change gear using the steering wheel mounted gearshift paddles

Design and Engineering:

Exteriors – a Merc in BMW theme:
The car has a significantly taller front end to meet stringent US safety standards. Styling for new generation C-Class mimics the S-Class and CL-Class. Mercedes wants to lower the average age of C-class customers i.e it wants a sporty machine. Sporty theme results in shedding of Merc’s chracterstic double barrel headlamps and it even made some compromises in the grille For the first time ever, the C-Class will come with different front ends denoting trim packages Classic(SE), Elegance and Avantgarde(sport).The radiator grille is used as a distinguishing feature to position the model variants more clearly.SE and Elegance models have the traditional bonnet-top star, while the Sport has it grille-mounted. Wanna to enjoy all the tastes? just swap the grille only minimal tools required to swap. Because of these changes the new C-class gets a more wedge-shaped and aggressive look, and this is supplemented with prominent wheelarches and a sharply cut-off tail. C-shaped rear indicator and matt finished wide boot lid handle are the design elements at the rear.

Mercedes C-class sport version feature stiffer suspensions and lower-profile tires that sharpen handling but at the expense of a rougher ride and a greater likelihood that a big pothole can flatten a tire and/or damage the rim. Sporty presence can be enhanced even further with the AMG sports package, which includes striking front and rear aprons plus side skirts. Merc believe the sport variant with the grille-mounted star will take on the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, while the other variants will satisfy the traditional Merc’s customers.

Build:

There’ll be two distinct chassis settings, too – one providing a slightly firmer ride and quicker steering response than the other. There’s no aluminium in the suspension, as in the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, but both C-Class set-ups feature what Mercedes calls Agility Control – shock absorbers that change the way they operate according to how the car is being driven, so that you get a softer ride at low speed and firmer responses when you’re pressing on. That’s not the end Merc’s agility package covers the reengineered steering which has become more precise and an agility control gearshift with a short travel and precise shifts.

Interiors:

The sporty theme on the outside is reflected in the control and instrument layout. Trim quality seems to have been markedly improved, too. The two-tone dash and console looks as though it has been carved from a solid block. Instrument faces are now all black with white markings, and the needles on the gauges glow orange. The colour display panel in the centre of the dash folds away if you find it too much of a distraction(not a BMW’s iDrive), but anything linked to it, including the sat-nav(satellite navigation system), continues to function. This control-and-display system has filtered down from the latest S-Class and allows the driver or front-seat passenger to operate hi-fi, sat-nav, phone and various other functions from a single rotary switch. The driver also has steering wheel-mounted controls as in the present C-Class, with any dialled-up information displayed in the instrument cluster. Three-zone climate control is available, allowing the two front passengers and those in the rear to set their own air temperature.The AUX-IN connection is another welcome standard addition in the C-class, which enables you to hook up your any MP3 player to the audio system via a socket in the glove compartment.

With a length of 4581 millimetres, the Saloon is 55 millimetres longer than its predecessor. The body width has increased by 42 mm to 1770 millimetres, and the wheelbase by 45 mm to 2760 millimetres. These dimensions create the conditions for a generously sized interior, and therefore more comfort. This may scuttle down the BMW 3 series much talked rear comfort but a 3 series driver will continue to have more comfort since even the new Merc C-class doesn’t have the necessary memory function for the driver’s seat as standard.

Safety and Special Features:

Occupant protection in the 2008 mercedes C-class is based on an intelligently designed bodyshell, 70 percent of which consists of high-strength and ultra high-strength steel. Compared to the previous series, Mercedes-Benz has enlarged the deformation zones even further and improved energy flows. The front-end structure of the new C-Class has four independently acting impact levels, which enable forces to be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell. Mercedes C calss occupants will benefit from belt tensioners and belt force limiters which will be offered as standard. The head restraints on the new C-class operate on the NECK PRO principle: during a rear-end collision the padded surfaces are pushed forward within milliseconds to support the heads of the driver and front passenger at an early stage. This significantly reduces the risk of a whiplash injury.

PRE-SAFE is another special feature of the new Mercedes C clas. This preventive occupant protection system (may be offered as optional in India) is linked to active safety systems such as ESP and Brake Assist, and is able to recognise critical driving manoeuvres at a very early stage. If the new C-Class is in danger of crashing as a result of heavy under or oversteering, or if the driver needs to brake very heavily in a dangerous situation, PRE-SAFE activates certain systems as a precaution to prepare the vehicle and its occupants for an impending accident.

Mercedes-Benz has developed flashing brake lights as a major help in reducing rear-end collisions, and these are also standard equipment in the new C-Class. If the driver needs to brake hard at speeds in excess of 50 km/h, the brake lights flash rapidly to warn drivers following behind.

The Intelligent Light System developed by Mercedes-Benz is now available in the new C-class for the first time. Bi-xenon headlamps now provides five different lighting functions suited to typical driving and weather conditions: country mode, motorway mode, enhanced foglamps, the Active Light System and cornering lights. This will help you to counter delhi’s fog and move past the dangerous corners with ease.

IIHS, NHTSA & JD power:

All these safety features makes the North American new C-class to get 4 star rating(second highest) in NHTSA and Good rating (highest) in IIHS . In JD power Initial Quality study it scores higher marks than its peer BMW 3 series in design department but in quality the bavarians still holds the lead.

Price and the launch:

Here’s official word on the time of the launch, Dr Wilfried Aulbur, company’s CEO and Managing Director said, “We are committed to bring in the latest products in the least possible time. In line with this strategy, we are looking forward to an early introduction of the recently launched new C-class and expect to offer the product in India by the first quarter of 2008.”

New C-class is expected to be priced slightly higher than the price range of the current models in the ‘C’ series. New C-class will be the third – after the C 200 Kompressor and the C-220 CDI – to be manufactured at the Daimlerchrysler’s plant at Chikhali near Pune. Daimlerchrysler’s proposed greenfield plant at Chakan is progressing as per the schedule, and it is scheduled to go into production in early 2009. Expect more crackers from the Benz makers!

Hot Photos – September 2007

1) Honda’s 8th generation Accord is ready to take on the Toyota camry and Nissan Teana. In India new Accord will be launched in 2008. Honda’s 2008 Accord will have upgraded engines – a 3.5-liter iVTEC V-6 now makes 268hp (superior when compared to last year’s 3L, VTEC, 224hp engine ) and a new 2.4-liter engine now makes 177 horsepower. Honda has reprogrammed the Powertrain Control Module(PCM) and hence the engines has become more efficient and cleaner. Honda claims improved mileage for both the engines.

2) 2008 Honda’s Accord new features includes a wide stance, large wheels, dynamic styling , new stability control system and multi-stage airbags.

3) Mercedes new C-class to take on Audi A4 and BMW 3 series. New C-class will hit indian shores in early 2008 . Expected to be priced slightly higher than the price range of current C-class.

4) The new C-class has innovative features is roomy and has innovative features like Agility control which varies the shock absorber function depending on the speed.

5) The next generation Indica is on the cards for Tata motors. The indica V3 gets its design cues from Tata’s concept car indiva showcased in 2002 geneva auto show. The new Indica will be more upmarket as Tata plans to export the car to western markets. (Headlamps and tailamps will be different)

6) The next generation Indica V3 will take on the segment leader swift diesel, the upcoming skoda fabia, getz diesel and Fiat punto.

source:overdrive

7) 2008 audi A4 is out, A4’s styling makes it look like a four-door A5. The car will debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Auto Show.

8) New Audi A4 is built on the new B8 platform and the compact four-cylinder 1.8 TFSI, is a highly efficient unit that develops 118 kW (160 bhp) and a torque of 250 Nm between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The two-litre engine TDI develops 105 kW (143 bhp) and has the powerful peak torque of 320 Nm between 1750 and 2500 rpm

9) TVS new Flame 125cc

10) BMW plans to launch its mini cooper in india. BMW which currently offers 3 series, 5 series will add X5 SUV this november. BMW recently revised its sales target from 1000units to 1200units for this year. German car maker which benefits through assembling its cars locally(in chennai) is expecting 30-35 per cent growth in the luxury car market in India and wants a major share in the segment.

11) BMW’s hatchback cooper will be priced around Rs20lakhs. Here’s official word on the launch date and the price. “BMW is expected to launch the BMW Mini Cooper in FY09 at a price tag of Rs 20 lakh,” BMW India President Peter Kronschnabl told

12) The next generation Aveo U-VA is ready, Chevrolet will unveil its 2008 Aveo U-VA(aveo in europe) in the upcoming Frankfurt motor show. Expected to be launched in India in 2008.

13) The new Aveo U-VA sports new design features, as characterised by the big horizontally split radiator grille with a body-coloured crossbeam and the brand logo sitting prominently in the center. The dynamic detailing of the new Aveo U-VA includes large, curved, clear-glass headlamps and fog lamps that project like spotlights from the lower part of the bumper.The 2008 aveo U-VA is expected to be powered by the same engine which powers the current U-VA.

14) Hindustan Motors on august 28th announced that it has firmed up plans to launch premium sports utility vehicles (SUVs) in the price range of Rs 15-25 lakh from the Mitsubishi stable within six months. Mitsubishi’s outlander might be its choice. Though outllander will be in the segment of Montero, it will be targetted towards a different set of customers

15) Mitsubishi Outlander is powered by a 2.4L engine which is mated to 6 speed CVT(Continuous Variable Transmission) and it also features a electronic 4 wheel drive system.

16) Mitsubishi -Hindustan Outlander interiors: Outlander will take on Honda CR-V , Maruti Suzuki new grand vitara, Ford Endeavour and upcoming chevrolet captiva and Hyundai santa fe

17) “We would introduce a new model by the end of this year which would take the total number of products to five,” said Mr R. Santhanam, Managing Director, Hindustan Motors. Yes, Hindustan – Mitsubishi is planning to launch galant a premium sedan above the lancer cedia.

18) Mitsubishi – Hindustan galant might be powered by 2.4L engine producing 160hp@5500rpm and 213Nm at 4000rpm.

19) Mitsubishi – Hindustan galant interiors

Honda’s 2008 Accord

Like others Honda has no imminent need to launch its next generation accord not just in India but in any part of the world but it has been a leader and setting benchmark for other manufacturers. Now it is getting ready to launch its next generation accord. Will the eighth generation accord can keep the accord’s charisma? let’s check out

Engine and Transmission:

Honda has upgraded both the engines for the new accord – the new 2.4-liter engine now makes 177 horsepower at 6300rpm (7% in horsepower compared to its predecessor) and 218Nm of torque at 4300rpm. Accord’s new engine also features superior technolgies like iVTEC(Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) and VTC (Variable Timing Control). Because of the the use of new fuel injector, new dual probe spark plugs, near-zero evaporative emissions equipment and the special i-VTEC system that leaves one exhaust valve closed in each cylinder at low rpm the retuned engine is expected to offer superior mileage/fuel efficiency.

Accord’s new v6 engine displaces 16% more than the current 3.0-liter Accord V-6. The increase in displacement leads to a 10% increase in horsepower and a substantial 18% boost in torque as compared to the previous V-6. 2008 Honda Accord’s 3.5L engine develops 268bhp at 6200 rpm and 336Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. Accord’s new engine is not just VTEC, It features a new generation of Honda’s advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) – the variable displacement technology with a special SOHC i-VTEC valvetrain that allows the engine to operate in three different modes. (During startup, acceleration or when climbing hills – any time high power output is required – the engine operates on all six cylinders. During moderate speed cruising and at low engine loads, the system operates just one bank of three cylinders. For moderate acceleration, higher-speed cruising and mild hills, the engine operates on four cylinders) Depending on driving conditions, the engine operates on three, four or all six cylinders to help boost fuel economy or power as needed. Honda claims improved mileage for both the engines. To absorb the inevitable vibrations while the engine was running on three or four cylinders, Honda uses active engine mounts and active noise control system. The same 5 speed automatic/manual may be offered.

Design and Engineering:

If you are a fan of Honda’s typical styling then the 2008 accord is not for you. Honda’s new Accord is too conserative in styling. The new design will not excite you at any angle. While the existing accord’s rear has the signs Mercedes C-class, the upcoming accord’s rear resembles the BMW 3 series. The substantial-looking C-pillar and tailamps will loot the exclusivity from the 3 series. But here we have to stop our critics, the new accord is more spacious – the car has become longer by 60mm, wider and taller by almost 25mm.

The 2008 Accord sedan is now classified as a “Large” car, according to the interior volume rankings of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). When its peers – the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima(teana in india) were ranked as a “Midsize.” Accord’s legroom,hip-room, shoulder room everything has grown since Accord’s wheelbase is also stretched by 58mm. The end result is the roomier passenger cabin (passenger volume is 106 cubic feet) more than the camry and the teana. But the stretch has a flip side too accord’s turning radius has jumped to 5.7m. The center of gravity for the entire vehicle was also lowered by 10mm to strengthen the Accord’s handling chracterstics. 2008 accord’s features a double-wishbone suspension in the front and a new multilink suspension setup in the rear replacing the previous double-wishbone setup. The new accord steering incorporates variable gear ratio for better maneuverability.

Safety and Special Features:

2008 Accord features disc brakes on all wheels with ABS. The new accord also features stability control and multi stage airbags. 2008 Accord features steering mounted audio and cruise control, bluetooth, navigation system with voice recognition and automatic headlamps. Few of these things may feature when it hits the indian shores.

Honda has tried to incorporate all these electronic comfort, convenience and information systems into the 2008 accord which has compromised the Accord’s legendary ergonomic simplicity. But don’t worry when the new accord comes to India, Honda will strip down few things to check the cost which will benefit us.

Price and the Launch:

The current seventh generation Accord on sale in India has helped Honda Siel to improve its sales numbers by more than 30 per cent a month. The all-new Accord will be launched by mid 2008 in India and a price increase for both the models might be around five per cent. The 2008 accord is redesigned to be more upmarket, interiors have become roomier and gets more power engines, sure it will attract more than just loyal owners.

Volvo XC90 SUV and S80 sedan

Volvo’s Indian debut:

Swedish car major Volvo Car Corporation (VCC) on August 29th announced plans to make its debut in India with two flagship products – S80 sedan and sports utility vehicle XC90 SUV– with prices starting at Rs 38 lakh and Rs 45 lakh respectively. VCC, which will be launching its two products early next month, said both the vehicles will be available in petrol (3.2 ltr and 4.4 ltr) and diesel variants (2.5 ltr) at the three Volvo dealerships, one each in Delhi, Mumbai and Chandigarh. The company will also provide a free two-year warranty and factory schedule maintenance up to 60,000 km (whichever is earlier). The S80 is set to take on sedans like Mercedes E Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. The SUV XC90 will take on the BMW X5, Mercedes M Class and Audi Q7, besides Landcruiser Prado from Toyota. The XC90 is a cross-country SUV with a robust and well-proportioned design that gives the car a sporty look. With top-of-the-line design and safety features, it will provide good competition to other SUVs in the same class. The S80 seeks to provide stylish space and versatility.Volvo will import these products as completely built units (CBUs) from the Volvo Sweden plant. While the S80 sedan petrol variant will be priced at Rs 39 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the diesel variant will be cheaper by Rs one lakh. Similarly, petrol version of SUV X90 can be had for Rs 46 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the diesel version will cost Rs 45 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Volvo Cars India is looking at ndorsing sports, particularly sailing, as a brand promotion tool for its range of cars. Volvo plans to expand its dealer network to Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Kolkata and Jaipur soon.The dealerships would house accessories, spares, workshop services and body shops and varied financial services, as per Volvo’s global format.

About Volvo:

Volvo Cars is owned jointly by Volvo Car Corporation and the company’s former owner, AB Volvo. With two major production plants in Sweden and Belgium, Volvo Cars’ sales and service network covers about 120 countries and it sold over 4,28 000 vehicles around the world in 2006. Globally, the company sells models like the XC90, Volvo S80, Volvo V70, Volvo XC70, Volvo V50, Volvo S40, Volvo C70 and the Volvo C30.Volvo group has a dominant share in global commercial vehicle market and car market. Volvo’c car division was acquired by Ford in 1998 for US$6.45 billion. The Indian subsidiaries of volvo and Ford are planning a joint strategy under which Volvo will cater to the high-end market, while Ford will feed the mid-size segment. Volvo will take Ford India’s support on various operations such as human resource, homologation procedure, information technology, logistics, accounting and taxation practice while it would focus on products, pricing, marketing strategy and network. However as of now there is no agreement for platform sharing between the duo in for Indian market.

Ashok Leyland -Nissan new JV

Ashok Leyland has signed an agreement with Japanese Nissan Motor Company for three joint venture companies to develop, manufacture and market light commercial vehicles (LCVs), powertrains and technical development. The joint venture companies will cover the following business areas:

Vehicle manufacturing company – a company with exclusive rights to manufacture LCV products in India for both the partners. Manufacturing facilities will be located in India, and the company will be majority owned by Ashok Leyland. In the medium term, production volume (for Indian and export markets) is expected to be above 1,00,000 units annually.

Powertrain manufacturing company – responsible for the manufacture and assembly of engines and other drivetrain components to be fitted in the LCV products and for exports. Manufacturing will be located in India, and the company will be majority owned by Nissan Motor Company.

Technology development company – responsible for the development of LCV products and related powertrains. The company will be owned 50:50 by the two partners. Chennai-based Ashok Leyland, with a 30 percent share of the Indian market, the world’s fifth-biggest for buses and trucks, trails Tata Motors Ltd. Sucess of Tata’s Ace luring local and international manufacturers to roll out similar vehicles also sales of commercial vehicles in India have risen by more than a fifth on average annually in the last three years.

official words on the deal

The latest deal with Ashok Leyland “will broaden our coverage of (Indian) market in addition to providing new LCV products for emerging markets,” Carlos Ghosn, Nissan’s President and CEO, said

“This partnership with Nissan, renowned for their product engineering and a wide range of LCV products, will allow Ashok Leyland to expand into the fast growing LCV segments in India,” R. Seshasayee, managing director at the Indian company, said