Skblog : July 2018

Tuesday 31 July 2018

Ciaz Sales Down 100%, Maruti's Overall Sales Also Decline In July

Maruti Suzuki India today released its monthly sales reports for July 2018, and the company's total sales have gown down by 0.6 per cent compared to last year. In July 2018 the company's total sales accounted for 164,369 units, compared to the 165,346 vehicles sold during the same month in 2017. However, the biggest drop in numbers was for the Ciaz, which saw a decline of 99.2 per cent in July 2018, selling only 48 units compared to the 6,377 units sold in July 2017. This is mainly because the company is all set to launch the facelifted version of the car this month, and right now dealers are selling the cars in their stock.

In July 2018, Maruti Suzuki also saw a similar 0.6 per cent drop in domestic passenger vehicle sales, as the company sold only 152,427 vehicles, against the 153,298 units sold in July 2017. On the other hand, the company's only commercial vehicle Super Carry's sales grew by 145.1 per cent to 1,723 units, compared to the 703 units sold during the same month last year. The company said that 'Domestic sales growth in July 2018 may be seen in the context of high wholesales in July 2017'.

Maruti's utility vehicle space saw a decline of almost 5 per cent

Passenger car sales, which include its mini compact and mid-size sedans and hatchbacks, saw a marginal growth of 0.3 per cent with a sale of 112,131 vehicles, against the 111,803 cars sold in July 2017. As for the utility vehicle space, which includes the Gypsy, Ertiga, S-Cross, and Vitara Brezza, monthly sales dropped by almost 5 per cent to 24,505, compared to 25,781 units sold during the same month last year. The Maruti Suzuki Omni and Eeco, on the other hand, together accounted for 15,791 unit, registering a marginal growth of 0.5 per cent, against the 15,714 units sold in July 2017.

Maruti's total exports during July 2018 stood at 10,219 units, compared to the 11,345 vehicles exported during the same month last year, registering a decline of almost 10 per cent.

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JLR Pulls Tata Motors Down Into A Loss Of Rs. 1864 Crore In First Quarter

Indian automaker Tata Motors reported a net loss of Rs. 1864 crore in the first quarter of FY2019. The company announced that it was hit by losses at its UK subsidiary Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and higher raw material costs. Having largely been Tata's cash cow over the years, this is the first time in several years Jaguar reported a loss for the automaker. The luxury brand reported a loss of 210 million Pounds between April and June 2018, which were attributed to a number of factors primarily being the duty reduction in China last month. The company had posted a net profit of Rs. 3200 crore during the same quarter last year.

Speaking on the performance of JLR during the previous quarter, Tata Motors, Chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran commented, "With regards to JLR, we faced multiple challenges including temporary issues like China duty impact as well as the market issues like diesel concerns in UK and Europe. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to deliver the planned margins we outlined earlier this year and appreciate the urgency to address our challenges with speed. Towards this, we will step up all round execution. We will leverage our product portfolio to grow faster and drive down costs to improve operating leverage of the business. We will also calibrate our capital spends to minimise cash outflow.'

Tata Motors posted a revenue of Rs. 65,975.78 crore in Q1 of FY2019, a growth of 12.2 per cent when compared to the revenue of Rs. 58,755.07 crore that was recorded during the same period last year.

Commenting on the domestic business and it's growth, Chandrasekaran said, "I am delighted with the progress made by the domestic business on their 'Turnaround 2.0' strategy. We continue to gain market share while strongly improving profitability in both Commercial Vehicles and Passenger Vehicles. Our drive for increased transparency continues with separate segmental results for CV and PV businesses from this quarter. I believe that with our focused efforts we are well positioned to "Win Decisively" in CV and "Win Sustainably" in PV. With these focused efforts, I am confident that Tata Motors Group will deliver Competitive, Consistent and Cash Accretive Growth in the medium to long term"

For Jaguar Land Rover, retail sales in the first quarter of FY2019 grew by 5.9 per cent year-on-year to 145,510 units. The growth in volumes was contributed by strong sellers including the Range Rover Velar, Range Rover Sport, Land Rover Discovery and the new Jaguar E-Pace. Sales in China, however, took a hit with wholesales being 13,510 units lower than retail sales, reflecting the reduction in import duties from 25 per cent to 10 per cent on July 1, 2018, and planned dealer stock reduction in other markets.

Revenues for JLR for Q1 stood at 5.2 billion Pounds, a decline of 6.7 per cent as compared to the same period last year. The drop season attributed to the lower wholesales and increased incentives in China in advance of the July 1 reduction. This made for an unfavourable balance sheet currency revaluation and higher depreciation and amortisation resulting from continuing investment led to a pre-tax loss for the quarter of 264 million Pounds (negative EBIT margin). Earnings before interest, tax and depreciation (EBITDA) were 325 million Pounds (6.2 per cent margin).

Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive, Ralf Speth said, "We had a pre-tax loss in the first quarter, reflecting the impact of the announcement of the duty reduction in China as well as planned dealer stock reduction in the quarter. We also continue to be impacted negatively by uncertainty over diesels in Europe along with Brexit and additional diesel taxes in UK. Given these issues, we will remain focused on driving growth and simultaneously reducing costs and boosting operational efficiency and capability, taking the necessary steps to shape our future. We expect sales and financial results to improve over the remainder of the financial year, driven by continued ramp-up of new models, most recently the electric Jaguar I-Pace, and with the new lower duties effective in China".

That said, JLR continues to invest in new vehicles and technologies that will be supporting its future growth with an investment of 1.1 billion Pounds for the quarter. This investment spending and seasonal working capital outflows of 1 billion Pounds led to a negative operating cash flow of 1.7 billion Pounds. The automaker plans to invest around 4.5 billion Pounds in the current financial year. The company plans to achieve a profitability of 4-7 per cent at the end of the 2018-18 financial year as announced for the FY19-21 period.

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JLR Reports Rs. 1864 Crore Losses To Tata Motors In Q1 FY19

Indian automaker Tata Motors reported a net loss of Rs. 1864 crore in the first quarter of FY2019. The company announced that it was hit by losses at its UK subsidiary Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and higher raw material costs. Having largely been Tata's cash cow over the years, this is the first time Jaguar reported a loss for the automaker. The luxury brand reported a loss of 210 million Pounds between April and June 2018, which were attributed to a number of factors primarily being the duty reduction in China last month. The company had a posted a net profit of Rs. 3200 crore during the same quarter last year.

Tata Motors posted a revenue of Rs. 65,975.78 crore in Q1 of FY2019, a growth of 12.2 per cent when compared to the revenue of Rs. 58,755.07 crore that was recorded during the same period last year.

That said, JLR continues to invest in new vehicles and technologies that will be supporting it's future growth with an investment of 1.1 billion Pounds for the quarter. This investment spending and seasonal working capital outflows of 1 billion Pounds led to a negative operating cash flow of 1.7 billion Pounds. The automaker plans to invest around 4.5 billion Pounds in the current financial year. The company plans to achieve a profitability of 4-7 per cent at the end of the 2018-18 financial year as announced for the FY19-21 period.

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Bike Sales July 2018: Bajaj Auto Registers 30 Per Cent Growth

Bajaj Auto today announced registering a total growth of 30 per cent during the month of July 2018, with 400,343 vehicles, against the 307,727 units the company sold during the same month last year. The company's two-wheeler business also saw a considerable growth of 25 per cent with 332,680 vehicles, compared to the 265,182 two-wheelers sold in July 2017. On the other hand, last month, the company's commercial vehicle sales grew to 67,663 units, against 42,545 units sold in July 2017, registering a growth of a massive 59 per cent, the highest-ever for Bajaj.

Also Read: Bajaj Auto Profit Grows 21 Per Cent In First Quarter Of 2018-19

Two-wheeler sales in the domestic market alone rose to 201,433 vehicles, registering a growth of 22 per cent compared to the 164,915 bikes sold during the same month last year. Two-wheeler exports during this July grew by 31 per cent to 131,247 units, against the 100,267 bikes exported from India in July 2017. On the other hand, Bajaj's commercial vehicles in India grew by 67 per cent to 36,078 units, compared to the 21,582 CVs sold last year during the same month. Commercial vehicle exports similarly grew by 51 per cent to 31,585 units, compared to the 20,963 units sold in July 2017.

Between April and July 2018, Bajaj Auto's total sales grew by 61 per cent, to 1,626,984 units, against the 1,196,161 sold during the same period last fiscal year. Two-wheeler sales alone reached 1,362,644 vehicles, registering a growth of 31 per cent, compared to the 1,040,896 sold during Apr-Jul 2017. As for the company's commercial vehicle sales during Apr-Jul 2018, Bajaj registered a growth of 70 per cent, with 264,340 units, compared to the 155,265 vehicles sold during the same period last year.

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Harley-Davidson Announcement To Enter 250-500cc Segment Sees Eicher Motors Shares Fall By Nearly 3%

It was just yesterday that Harley-Davidson announced that it's working on introducing bikes in the 250-500cc range. the company will be entering into a strategic partnership with an Asia-based two-wheeler company for manufacturing the 250 cc- 500 cc motorcycles, without mentioning who the new partner will be. The company has categorically mentioned that this new product will be brought to India with intent of further broadening the customer access to Harley-Davidson motorcycles and also fuel the company's growth in India. This announcement certainly seems to have taken a toll on the share prices of Royal Enfield's parent company Eicher Motors. Today, the shares of Eicher Motors fell by as much as 2.84 per cent which is a big drop for the company.

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces 250cc-500cc motorcycles For Asian Markets

Royal Enfield posted strong sales of 74,477 units in June 2018, a growth of 18 per cent year on year. In fact exports grew by 27 per cent in June compared to the same period last year.

Harley-Davidson sold 3,000 fewer motorcycles worldwide in the second quarter of 2018 than it did during the same period in 2017, a decline of 3.6 per cent. In all, in the April to June period of 2018, Harley-Davidson sold 78,428 motorcycles, compared to 81,388 motorcycles in the same period in 2017. Harley-Davidson's international sales however continue to grow, even though marginally, with a 0.7 per cent growth in the second quarter.

With sales slowing down, particularly in the US market, Harley-Davidson's new small capacity motorcycle will be launched keeping in mind the high volumes Asian markets, including the world's largest two-wheeler market that is India.

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Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Spotted Testing With KTM Orange Alloy Wheels

A camouflaged test mule of the upcoming Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 was recently spotted testing in India, and for the first time around the bike has been spied with alloy wheels. In fact, the bike appears to be running on the same 17-inch KTM orange alloys that currently do duty on the 390 Duke. While globally, the bike is available only with spoked wheels, this is a possible indication that the company might consider alloy wheels for the India-spec model, however, right now it's too soon to confirm the possibility.

Bajaj Auto has already confirmed that the Husqvarna brand will be launched in India during the 2018-19 financial year, most likely in early 2019. The two-wheeler maker hasn't officially announced the product line for the Indian market yet, but the two suitors for us are the Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401. The names translate to 'Black Arrow' and 'White Arrow' respectively and prototype models of both the bikes have been spotted in India.

The bikes are based on the KTM 390 Duke and will be manufactured in India alongside other KTM bikes at Bajaj's Chakan plant. This particular prototype still appears to be in the early stages of testing because, in addition to the alloy wheels, the bike is also seen with the 390's belly pan and we can also see the KTM branding on the engine. This could mean that the company might be still in the process of sourcing parts from local suppliers.

In addition to the platform, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 will also borrow the 373.2 cc single-cylinder engine from the Duke 390. In the latter, the engine produces 43.5 bhp and develops 37 Nm of peak torque, while paired with a 6-speed transmission. Considering the European-spec Svartpilen 401 offers the same power output, it's likely to remain unchanged in the India-spec models as well.

In terms of pricing then, the Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen and 401 Vitpilen are likely to be priced over the Rs. 3 lakh, well into the BMW G 310 territory, which should make for an interesting rivalry. Competition, of course, will come from the likes of the aforementioned BMW G 310 R and its cousin KTM 390 Duke.

Image Source: Motohive/Facebook

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Mahindra Marazzo, Harley-Davidson New Motorcycles, 2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift

The top automotive news of the day- Mahindra's new MPV has been named Marazzo, which means shark in a Spanish dialect. It is a 7/8 seater MPP which was earlier code-named U321. The Mahindra Marazzo will be launched in India sometime in September, 2018. Harley-Davidson has revealed new business plans which include a new 1,250 cc adventure bike, a 975 cc naked sportbike and a 250 cc â€“ 500 cc small bike especially for Asian markets. And finally, the 2019 model of the Suzuki Vitara Facelift has been revealed.

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KIA Stinger And Jaguar F-Type SVR

The flagship product for the Korean band, the KIA Stinger GT is a very capable, cleverly designed and well-built sports sedan. We drive it at the Buddh International Circuit to know more about it. We also bring you the SVR avatar of Jaguar F-type which is quicker, faster and louder. We bring you all the details.

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In Conversation With Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, Ford India

We speak to Ford India's MD, Anurag Mehrotra and discuss the growth of the company as it expands its portfolio. We talk to him about Ford's new alliance with Mahindra and lot more.

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Honda Jazz Facelift, Burgman Street vs Ntorq And HP Fastlane

The efficient, reliable and roomy premium hatchback from Honda has been upgraded. The new 2018 Honda Jazz gets minor tweaks but a a good dose of tech and features in this facelift. We bring you the review. We pit one of the best 125 cc scooters in India, the TVS Ntorq 125, to the newest kid on the block, the big and bold Burgman Street from Suzuki. Finally, HP Fuel stations will now become cashless as HP Fastlane will provide automatic vehicle identification using RFID Technology to fill your vehicle. Find out more.

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Mahindra Xylo To Continue Production In India

Mahindra and Mahindra today officially announced the name of its all-new multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) - the Mahindra Marazzo for India. The all-new MPV is set to be the largest Mahindra passenger vehicle yet and will rival the likes of Toyota Innova Crysta. While the Mahindra Marazzo was believed to be a replacement for the Xylo, the company today announced that it will not discontinue the latter until such a need arises. Currently, Mahindra sells around 700-800 units of the Xylo MPV and the company will later decide, possible after the Marazzo's launch, whether to discontinue it or not.

The Mahindra Xylo was launched in India in early 2009 and has been in production ever since. The MPV is manufactured at the company Nashik plant and the initial production cost of the vehicle was around Rs. 550 crore. While initially, the Mahindra Xylo managed to make a strong mark for the company in the MPV segment, it wasn't really able to surpass the segment leader Toyota Innova. Furthermore, with the launch of the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga in 2011 the Xylo's sales slowly started to decline. While the Mahindra did manage to pull up the number after the launch of the facelifted version in 2012, with growing competition and the numbers again went down and the fact that the MPV did not receive any update post that did not help either.

The Mahindra Xylo is currently offered in four variants - D2, D4, H4 and H8. While the former two are powered by a 2.5-litre mDI CRDe diesel engine that makes 94 bhp and 218 Nm of peak torque, the H4 and H8 come with the tried and tested 2.2-litre mHawk engine offering 120 bhp and 280 Nm of peak torque. Both the engines come mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard.

The new Mahindra Marazzo is slated to be launched in India in September this year, and it's possible that Mahindra is waiting for the new MPV to make a strong presence for itself in the market before it decides to end the Xylo's production.

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Tata Motors Ceases Manufacturing Operations In Thailand

Tata Motors has announced that it will be ceasing manufacturing operations in Thailand. The automaker stated that the decision was made due to a sub scale and unsustainable business in the region. In a statement, Tata Motors said, "As part of this ongoing review, we have undertaken a reassessment of our business model in Thailand to endure it is sustainable over the long term. The business as it stands today is sub-scale and not sustainable. We have hence decoded to cease the current manufacturing operation in this financial year." The company, however, will continue to retail its offerings in the market through imports.

The decision is part of Tata Motors' Turnaround 2.0 strategy that aims for delivering consistent, competitive and cash accretive growth. One of the six pillars is net debt and subsidaries. Going forward, the automaker said that it shall continue to address the Thailand market with a revamped product portfolio that suits the local needs, and will deliver through a CBU distribution model.

The company further added, "Tata Motors is committed to the ASEAN region wherein Thailand is an important market and the company endeavours to continue serving customers as it transitions to the new operating model."

PTI quoted Tata Motors Group CFO, P Balaji saying, "It was becoming unviable business for us. Therefore, we decided to cease manufacturing operations." Tata is said to have incurred loses up to Rs. 170 crore in the Thailand business last year.

Tata Motors Thailand commenced operations in the South East Asian country since the beginning of 2008, in a joint venture with the Thonburi Automotive Assembly Group. The company retails a number of commercial vehicles in the region ranging from the one tonne Xenon pick-ups, to medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles.

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Datsun To Completely Change Its Design Language In 2019

Nissan's budget brand for developing markets, Datsun was brought back in 2013 with the global unveil of its first new car, the Go in India. With a market launch in 2014, followed by the launch of the Datsun Go+ and then the Datsun RediGo, the brand took the battle to the likes of the Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and even Tata Motors. That said, with a love-it-or-hate-it design, the brand never really caught the imagination of the Indian car buying audiences and never really lived up to the expectations that we in India had expected. Now though, the brand is about to get a complete revamp in terms of design language to make it more current and more relevant.

Also Read: Datsun GO and GO+ Facelifts To Be Launched In India This Year

(Datsun Go Facelift)

The Datsun brand will get a major refresh in terms of its exterior design making the cars more modern and more up to date with global design levels. Speaking to CarAndBike, Alfonso Albaisa, Executive Design Director, Nissan said, "There is a natural evolution happening in Datsun that is not visible to you yet and is really linked to a new platform. And with the new platform, we have created a whole new design language for Datsun which we will start teasing probably within a year or so. It was a great opportunity to really look at the brand, really look at where we are and really look at the story of Datsun. And the group is considering how we can talk about the great history that Datsun has and what kind of cars we should be designing that represent the history."

Also Read: Production-Spec Datsun Cross Revealed In Indonesia

Elaborating on what direction the Datsun would take, Albaisa explained how the current design language would be replaced by a more robust one which would also have more 'dynamic purity'. The new platforms of course will also help the cars become more spacious, lighter and more importantly, safer. Expect concept forms of the new design language to make a debut sometime next year and production versions to follow post that.

(Datsun Go Cross Concept)

Interestingly, Datsun was also responsible for the legendary Z car (originally the 240z) or the Datsun Fairlady, which was an affordable performance sportscar of the 60s. While the Z car division is now offered with a Nissan badge around the world with the aging 370Z, a new one is on the cards too and will most likely be a hybrid with a 2-litre turbocharged engine and an electric motor. The new Z car will take on the likes of the upcoming Toyota Supra.

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Mahindra Marazzo MPV To Get Only A Diesel Engine At The Time Of Launch

Mahindra's upcoming MPV codenamed U321 was christened as the Marazzo earlier today and the all-new model will be entering the Indian market as early as September this year. The Mahindra Marazzo will be taking on the Toyota Innova Crysta, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and the likes in the segment, and will be initially available only with a diesel engine at the time of launch. The development was confirmed by Rajan Wadhera, President Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra to CarAndBike at the christening ceremony. The Marazzo will be the automaker's third offering to be based on a monocoque platform and is expected to be high on features.

Also Read: Mahindra Christens U321 MPV 'Marazzo'

Low NVH levels and refinement of the drivetrain which is ‘virtually’ all new for the #U321 @MahindraRise pic.twitter.com/aiBFDAXWA7
— carandbike (@carandbike) July 31, 2018

The Marazzo is expected to feature the all-new 1.6-litre diesel and petrol engines that are being developed by Mahindra and SsangYong. The automaker announced that the new all-new diesel engine will be low on weight and NVH levels, while being "easy on the pocket." While power figures have not been revealed for now, the diesel engine is likely to be offered with a 6-speed manual and possibly an automatic transmission too at the time of launch.

While diesel continues to dominate the MPV segment in India, there is a rising demand for petrol powered MPVs as well, and Mahindra plans to address this segment in the future. With the market's shift towards petrol powered models in recent months, Mahindra has had to rework on its strategy for the Marazzo, and hence, a petrol engine is also in the pipeline at present. With the development underway, the engine will be introduced sometime in the future, depending on the market demand for petrol MPVs.

(The Mahindra Marazzo will come with sleek interior and a roof-mounted blowers)

While diesel still leads the charge when it comes to volumes, both the Toyota Innova Crysta and the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga get petrol derivatives. In fact, the new generation Ertiga that will go on sale later this year will be getting an all-new 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine.

Also Read: Mahindra To Launch Its First Electric SUV In The First Half Of FY2020

A pre-dominantly diesel UV maker, the recent years have seen Mahindra & Mahindra introduce petrol engines across its existing offerings. The Mahindra XUV500 received the option of a petrol engine last year and is offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Mahindra KUV100 also comes with both petrol and diesel motor options.

The Marazzo has been co-developed by Pininfarina, Mahindra Design Studio, Mahindra North American Technical Centre in the US, and Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai. The Marazzo is said to have the longest wheelbase for any Mahindra vehicle.

Other features will include a touchscreen infotainment system, dual-pod instrument cluster, LED DRLs with fog lamps, leather upholstered cabin and more. Complete details on the Mahindra Marazzo will be revealed at the time of launch.

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Harley-Davidson Streetfighter Designed By Indian Designer

The Harley-Davidson Streetfighter, which will be one of the three new models launched in 2020 by the American motorcycle manufacturer, has been designed by Harley-Davidson's Senior Designer Chetaan Shedjale. Carandbike has learnt that Shedjale is the man behind the radical new design of the muscular Streetfighter which will be powered by an all-new 975 cc v-twin engine. Harley-Davidson has announced ambitious plans for 2020, announcing three new models, the Pan America adventure tourer, the Streetfighter and a Custom bobber. Aesthetically, all three models are different from the current crop of Harley-Davidson's signature heritage cruiser designs. The Streetfighter is perhaps one of the most striking new models announced by the American motorcycle manufacturer.

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces 250-500 cc Motorcycle For Asia

(Harley-Davidson Streetfighter designed by Chetaan Shedjale)

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces Three New Motorcycles For 2020

In a video released by the company, titled "More Roads to Harley-Davidson", you can clearly see Shedjale working on the design of the bike, and also working on a clay model. A source in Harley-Davidson has confirmed that the upcoming Streetfighter has indeed been designed by none other than Chetaan Shedjale. It's worth mentioning here that Shedjale is also responsible for designing the Harley-Davidson Street Rod, a sportier iteration of the Harley-Davidson Street 750. Both the Street 750 and Street Rod are made in India, and it will be another accomplishment for the young designer from Maharashtra to be responsible for a radical, sporty and masculine design as the Streetfighter's. Chetaan has been working with Harley-Davidson since 2010 at the firm's Milwaukee headquarters.

Also Read: The Story Of Chetaan Shedjale, Designer Of The Harley-Davidson Street Rod

Watch the 'More Roads To Harley-Davidson' video here:

The Harley-Davidson Streetfighter certainly is a muscular and sporty looking motorcycle, and is unlike any Harley-Davidson we've seen so far. In a way, it's the first time Harley-Davidson has designed and produced something like this, a lean, mean, and aggressively muscular model which looks sporty and definitely has lots of road presence. The lines are sharp and muscular, with a tapered tail end and a big, liquid-cooled v-twin engine leaves little doubt that this is a Harley-Davidson. The chassis seems to be a steel trellis frame, with an aluminium double-sided swingarm and a slash cut exhaust muffler. Of course, the images released of the new bikes are of prototypes, so the final production models could see a few changes.

(The Harley-Davidson Streetfighter has a muscular and aggressive design language)

The Harley-Davidson Streetfighter will be launched as a 2020 model, and it certainly looks like it will be launched in India, maybe even as an India-assembled model to keep prices competitive. Once launched, the Streetfighter will take on the likes of the Kawasaki Z900, Triumph Street Triple S and even the Ducati Monster 821. We expect pricing to be in the region of Rs. 9-10 lakh (ex-showroom), when Harley-Davidson India launches the Streetfighter in India.

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2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift: All You Need To Know

Suzuki Motor Corporation took the wraps off the 2019 Vitara facelift for the UK market. The 2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift will come with design updates, two new colors and gets new technology and advanced safety equipment to stay compete against its rivals. The new iteration of the Vitara facelift will go on sale in September this year in the UK, while other markets will get it by the end of this year or early next year. Now, in India, we get the Vitara Brezza, which was recently introduced with Maruti's AGS gearbox, or simply in the AMT version. Will these see through in the India-spec Vitara Brezza is a question only the officials can tell, but for now, we tell you everything there is to know about the 2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift.

Also Read: 2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift Unveiled

Everything You Need To Know About 2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift

Visually, the 2019 Suzuki Vitara facelift gets a redesigned front grille and lower bumper while the rear of the car features new design and distinctive LED combination lamps.
Suzuki has also updated the Vitara facelift with new design alloy wheels.

(2019 Suzuki Vitara will come with an updated instrument cluster)
On the inside, the 2019 Vitara Facelift is updated with soft touch material for the upper instrument panel. The instrument cluster has a new design with colour central information display.
In terms of safety, the 2019 Vitara will be the most technically advanced Suzuki to date and new safety technology available as standard equipment on the SZ5 model. These include Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Traffic Sign recognition, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear cross traffic alert.

(2019 Suzuki Vitara gets a new design for the taillamps)
Powering the 2019 Vitara facelift will be both 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engines, which also does duty in the European spec S-Cross. The SZ4 and SZ-T grades are equipped with the 1.0-litre 110 bhp Boosterjet engine.
It also features Suzuki's ALLGRIP four wheel drive as an option on the SZ-T with manual transmission.
Prices for the 2019 Suzuki Vitara facelift will be announced in September at its launch.

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Exclusive: Ducati Scrambler 1100 Spotted In India

Ducati India will launch the Ducati Scrambler 1100 in India very soon, in all likelihood, by the first half of August. A Carandbike reader has sent us these exclusive spy shots of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 in India, and the launch of the bigger Scrambler 1100 is imminent. The Scrambler 1100 will be the top-of-the-line, large displacement model in the Ducati Scrambler series. The Scrambler 1100 will address a section of riders who want a Scrambler which is a little bigger and more performance oriented than the standard Ducati Scrambler which has been on sale for some time now. Globally, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 is available in three variants - the standard Ducati Scrambler 1100, the Scrambler 1100 Special and the Scrambler 1100 Sport. In India too, all three variants are expected to be offered.

(The 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 is expected to be priced between Rs. 11-12 lakh ex-showroom)

The Scrambler 1100 is powered by the 1,079 cc, air-cooled L-twin from the Ducati Monster 1100, but the engine has been tweaked for smoother fuelling and makes 85 bhp at 7,500 rpm and peak torque of 88 Nm at 4,750 rpm. Like the 803 cc Scrambler, the Scrambler 1100 gets a six-speed gearbox as well as a slipper clutch to aid in aggressive downshifts. The bigger Scrambler also gets a comprehensive electronics package, with three riding modes as well as a five-level traction control. It also comes with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) which helps calculate lean angles and actuate the cornering ABS. The throttle is ride-by-wire and the three riding modes are Active, with full power and direct throttle response, Touring (with full power and relaxed throttle response) and City (with power reduced to 75 bhp and muted throttle response).

(The Ducati Scrambler 1100 gets a new 1,079 cc L-twin engine and electronics package, including riding modes, slipper clutch and cornering ABS)

The brakes comprise of 330 mm discs up front, paired with radially mounted four-piston Brembo M4.32B Monobloc calipers, and at the rear is a 245 mm single disc with a single-piston caliper. The suspension system on the standard Scrambler 1100 and the Scrambler 110 Special is handled by a 45 mm upside down Kayaba fork which is adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping. The Scrambler 1100 Sport gets top-spec Ohlins suspension with the same specs. The rear suspension is also adjustable for rebound damping and spring preload.

(The Ducati Scrambler 1100 will be available in a choice of three variants - Standard, Special and Sport)

Aesthetically, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 retains the trademark Ducati Scrambler design language, with gets a liberal dose of aluminium finishes on the engine covers, clutch and alternator cover. Also new is a new LCD instrument panel which displays the additional info like riding modes and traction control settings. The riding position is expected to be somewhat different from the standard Ducati Monster with the handlebar set lower and farther forward, and footpegs which make for a slightly different set of ergonomics. The Ducati Scrambler 1100 is expected to be priced between Rs. 11 - 12 lakh (ex-showroom) and will compete with the likes of the Triumph Thruxton R.

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Mahindra To Launch Its Electric SUV In The First Half Of FY 2019-20

Mahindra and Mahindra will be launching its first electric SUV in India in the next fiscal year. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, M&M talked about the new e-SUV's arrival during the name announcement of the company's new MPV Mahindra Marazzo, which was earlier known by the codename U321. Goenka confirmed that the new electric SUV will be launched during 2019-2020 financial year and while he did not give us the name of the e-SUV, we believe it will be based on the KUV100.

We say this because, earlier during the launch of the Mahindra KUV100 facelift, Pawan Goenka had mentioned that Mahindra is planning to introduce electric versions for all its future crossover and SUV models, and the KUV100 EV will be the first one to be electrified. We have already told you that the company is planning to introduce two new electric vehicles by 2019, and one of them is possibly the Mahindra KUV100 electric vehicle. Back then, when we asked Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, M&M, whether the upcoming electric Mahindra KUV100 will also get the same powertrain as the one used in Mahindra e2o Plus, he said, "the electric KUV100 will get an all-new electric powertrain."

Currently, Mahindra Electric, the EV arm of Mahindra and Mahindra, sells two electric vehicles in India - the e2O Plus hatchback and the e-Verito electric sedan. The carmaker also offers the e-Supro in the light commercial vehicle segment. Right now these are the only all-electric models from Mahindra that are on sale in India, and possibly by next year, we'll see the addition of an electric SUV as well.

Earlier the company had also talked about the possibility of an electric XUV Aero Coupe, based on the Mahindra XUV Aero Coupe Concept, showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo. The company is currently working on a long-range electric motor which could go up to 350 km on a full charge, which could be the one used the XUV Aero Coupe EV.

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Will Do All To Save Force India: F1 boss Ross Brawn

Amidst the financial turmoil that the team is going through, the future of Sahara Force India Formula Team remains uncertain in the championship. However, Formula 1 boss Ross Brawn has said that the commercial rights holder Liberty Media will do "all in its power" to ensure that the Silverstone-based outfit survives after going into administration. Force India driver Sergio Perez forced the team in administraiton, in a bid to keep the team afloat and secure the future of its 400 employees. However, the long term future of the team will depend on a new buyer that can save Force India from winding up operations.

Speaking at the post-race debrief at the end of the Hungary Grand Prix last weekend, Ross Brawn said, "Formula 1 will be doing all in its power to ensure the team survives and I truly hope that in the coming days and weeks its future is resolved. Over the past few years the Silverstone-based team has been an amazing example of what can be done with limited resources, showing that what you do and how you do it is much more important than the size of your budget."

Also Read: Force India To Continue Operations Amidst Financial Turmoil

(Force India currently stands sixth in the 2018 constructors' standings)

Furthermore, Brawn said, that all F1 participants deserved the upcoming summer break, "especially those who work at Force India, which is going through a particularly difficult time at the moment".

Ahead of the Hungary GP last weekend, Force India driver Sergio Perez's legal team requested the courts to put the team under Administration, which allows the team to operate until a new buyer is found. The move was prompted after one of the team's creditors approached the UK courts in order to get a 'wind up' notice against the team. This would result in the immediate stopping of all activities, while the team would have to sell of its assets to pay off the creditors. Perez's legal move ensured that the team operates in the interim till a new buyer is found, which is likely to be billionaire Lawrence Stroll, father of Williams F1 driver Lance Stroll.

(Sergio Perez pushed the team into administration after creditors approached UK courts for a "wind up" notice)

However, an ownership change requires the approval of all other teams in order to be eligible for the television prize money. The teams are eligible for two different types of prize money under F1. One being the set figure for all teams, while the other is based on where the team finishes in the top ten position on the constructors' championship in two of the last three seasons.

Also Read: Force India Finds A New Owner?

However, it's believed that teams including Williams, McLaren and Renault are not in much in support of the same, which could jeopardise the sale. Moreover, without the approval of all teams, Force India won't eligible for the bulk of its prize money until 2020, which runs into millions of dollars.

Force India brought home an incredible fourth place in the constructors' championships for the previous two seasons. This despite having one of the smallest budgets compared to other teams. This season, however, has been a challenging one with Haas managing better results over the Silverstone-based team. Force India currently stands sixth in the constructors' standings for 2018.

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Mahindra Christens U321 MPV Marazzo

Mahindra and Mahindra has been looking to make a comeback into the MPV segment in India and it's finally announced the name of the car. Till now we knew it as the U321 but today the company announced that the new MPV will be called the Marazzo, as we had told you earlier. Yes, it's a seven seater and Mahindra continues its tradition of 'Os' at the end of the name with this one too. The Marazzo MPV has been spotted testing many a times and we've already told you so much about it.

Mahindra plans to launch the Marazzo MPV in September and we'll be driving it soon. Based on the prototypes we have seen so far, we know that the MPV looks bigger than the existing Xylo, which it's going to replace. This means that there will be more space at the rear but we'll know more when the company hands us the specifications of the Marazzo. Visually, it's likely to carry forward the Mahindra styling and characteristics like the chrome-toothed grille, large sweptback headlamps with double barrel projector headlamps, sporty alloys, and larger vertically stacked taillamps. In fact, the company says the design of the car

The Marazzo will also come with a well-equipped cabin and will feature a two-tone interior and a large piano black finished surface that covers a major portion of the dashboard, along with a large touchscreen infotainment display at the centre with buttons and dials on either side. There are large central air-con vents, a new three-spoke steering wheel, and a twin-pot instrument cluster.

Mahindra is tight lipped about what will power the Marazzo, but it is expected to feature the all-new 1.6-litre diesel and petrol engines that Mahindra has been developing for a while now. The engines are likely to come mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and an optional 6-speed automatic torque converter, borrowed from the XUV500. Upon launch, the Marazzo will go up against the likes of the Toyota Innova Crysta and Tata Hexa.

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Monday 30 July 2018

Uber To Stop Developing Self-Driving Trucks

Uber will stop developing self-driving trucks that have been hauling cargo on U.S. highways, the ride-hailing company said on Monday, seeking to focus its autonomous-vehicle technology solely on cars. Through its acquisition of Otto in 2016, Uber had sought to disrupt freight hauling with self-driving trucks and Uber Freight, its smartphone app that connects truck drivers and shippers.

Uber Freight, which has seen "rapid" growth, is unaffected by the decision, the company said.

Trucking has been viewed by transportation experts as a natural application for self-driving technology because of the relative predictability of highways compared with busy city streets.

Uber had unveiled plans earlier this year to integrate manual trucking with self-driving trucks by deploying the former for short hauls and the latter for longer distances.

"We believe having our entire team's energy and expertise focused on (self-driving cars) is the best path forward," Eric Meyhofer, head of Uber Advanced Technologies Group, said in an emailed statement.

San Francisco-based Uber faces competition from Silicon Valley companies including Tesla Inc and Alphabet Inc's Waymo as well as traditional automakers such as Ford and General Motors in the race to bring self-driving cars to the market.

Uber said it will move employees working on self-driving trucks to other internal roles within autonomous vehicle development.

(Reporting by Munsif Vengattil in Bengaluru; Editing by Sai Sachin Ravikumar)

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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No Objection On Putting Stickers To Identify Nature Of Vehicles, Says MoRTH

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) informed the Supreme Court that there was "no objection" to putting stickers on vehicles which would indicate its nature as to whether it was electric, hybrid, diesel or BS-VI compliant. A bench of justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta was apprised by Additional Solicitor General A N S Nadkarni that there was no objection on the suggestion made in this regard by an advocate, who is assisting the court as an amicus curiae in the air pollution matter.

"On stickers, the MoRTH has agreed," he told the bench and added that he has filed an affidavit in this regard. "Additional Solicitor General appearing on behalf of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) says that there is no objection to the suggestion made by amicus curiae about putting stickers on the vehicles," the bench noted in its order.

The bench asked advocate Aparajita Singh, assisting the court as an amicus curiae, to give a detailed submission in this regard and posted the matter for hearing on August 1.

On July 23, the amicus had handed over a note to the bench and had said that colour-coded stickers could be pasted on vehicles to give an indication of the nature of vehicle.

The amicus had said that such stickers, as used in Paris, would be more effective then having the "odd-even" vehicle rotation scheme in Delhi and it would also help in identifying older vehicles.

During the hearing today, the counsel appearing for the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) said they would file an affidavit in response to the affidavit filed earlier by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) on sale and manufacture of BS-VI non-compliant vehicles in India.

The SIAM said that there were contradictions in the two affidavits filed by the government in this regard. The bench asked SIAM to file the affidavit by tomorrow.

The MoPNG, in its affidavit filed in the court, had said that it would be appropriate if manufacture of BS-IV vehicles was allowed till March 31, 2020 but no sale of non-compliant BS-VI vehicles should be permitted after April 1, 2020.

"If the sale is permitted from April 1, 2020 onwards, it will adversely affect the benefits of introduction of BS VI fuel," the MoPNG had said.

These issues had cropped up when the court was hearing a petition on air pollution in Delhi-national capital region (NCR).

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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2019 Suzuki Vitara Facelift Unveiled

Suzuki Motor Corporation has officially unveiled the 2019 Vitara facelift ahead of the SUV's market launch. It was just recently that we shared the leaked images of the SUV, and now the official ones are out. Slated to be introduced in September this year, in the UK, the facelifted Suzuki Vitara receives a bunch of cosmetic, technical, and feature updates for the 2019 model year. In addition to various design updates, the 2019 Vitara also comes in two new colour options, along with a bunch of new tech and advanced safety features. Prices for the new 2019 Suzuki Vitara will be will be announced closer to the launch date.

Unlike its Indian cousin, the sub-4 metre Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, the facelifted Suzuki Vitara SUV is a lot bigger and measures 4.2 metres in length. Visually, the 2019 model comes with an updated face, featuring a redesigned grille with fat, vertically positioned chrome slats, and revised front bumper with a larger airdam and slightly bigger LED daytime running lamps. The profile pretty much remains unchanged save for a new set of alloys, however, at the rear, the SUV features a new design for the distinctive LED combination lamps.

2019 Suzuki Vitara gets a new design for the taillamps

The cabin, on the other hand, has also gone through a considerable overhaul and it now comes with improved quality material for the interior trim. The dashboard, for instance, uses soft-touch material for the upper instrument panel, while the instrument cluster gets a new design with colour central information display. The top-end variant of the SUV will come with features like - dual sensor brake support, lane departure warning and prevention, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.

2019 Suzuki Vitara will come with an updated instrument cluster

Under the hood, the 2019 Suzuki Vitara will come with both, the 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engines, borrowed from the updated UK-spec S-Cross model range. The former is a replacement for the existing 1.6-litre petrol engine. The lower variants equipped with the 109 bhp, 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine will also get Suzuki's ALLGRIP four-wheel-drive system as an option with the manual transmission version. The top-end variant gets the 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine that makes 138 bhp and 220 Nm of peak torque, which is available from just 1,500 rpm through to 4,000 rpm.

2019 Suzuki Vitara will get a pair of Boosterjet petrol engines - 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre

Currently, the Suzuki Vitara is sold in 191 countries and regions around the world and the SUV's cumulative sales recently passed 3.7 million units mark. While the SUV was sold in India as Grand Vitara up until 2015, Maruti Suzuki might consider launching the SUV in India to rival the likes of Hyundai Creta and Jeep Compass. In fact, the pre-facelift model of the SUV has already been spotted testing in India on a couple of occasions. However, if at all the carmaker decides to launch the Vitara SUV in India, we'll get the facelifted version.

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Audi Teases PB18 E-Tron Electric Supercar Concept Ahead Of Pebble Beach Debut

German carmaker Audi will unveil its electric-drive supercar concept, called the PB18 E-Tron at the upcoming 2018 Pebble Beach Concourse d'Elegance Week next month. The abbreviated name for the Audi concept car, 'Audi PB 18 e-tron', refers to the Pebble Beach venue and the year of the debut. It also recalls the LeMans-series winner Audi R18 e-tron and was conceived and designed by the new Audi Design Loft in Malibu, California. The Audi PB 18 e-tron will be unveiled at the Laguna Seca racetrack as part of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion reception, a day before its official debut at Pebble Beach.

Also Read: Audi e-Tron Electric SUV To Debut In September

The details of the Audi PB 18 e-tron supercar concept have not been revealed yet, but the Audi R18 e-tron had a hybrid powertrain and is the second in line in the company's electric car portfolio after the e-tron electric crossover. While the e-tron electric crossover will have a travel range of close to 500kms, we expect the Audi PB 18 e-tron supercar concept to be more on the sporty, adventurous and a futuristic electric design study for the performance enthusiast driver.

Also Read: Audi E-Tron's High-Tech Interior Revealed

Moving away from the diesel emission scandal, the company says that the new PB 18 e-tron supercar concept screams out emotion instead of emissions, referring to its electric powertrain. Well, right now, we have nothing more to say except that wait till August 24 to see it in flesh on the Pebble Beach lawns.

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This Is The Final Pagani Huayra Coupe

Pagani has made its last and final Huayra coupe. Called the L'Ultimo, the final Huayra has been built as a one off and was delivered to a dealership in the United States. The car has been heavily inspired (apparently) by Lewis Hamilton's Formula 1 Mercedes-AMG F1 car with a silver and blue livery with a fair measure of naked carbon fibre thrown in. This particular Huayra, a BC spec car, will be the final coupe made before Pagani launches the BC version of the Cabriolet. The Pagani Huayra Coupe and Cabriolet are both limited to 100 units each and this particular car is chassis 100/100.

(The Pagani Huayra L'Ultimo gets a contrasting turquoise central console)

The Pagani Huayra L'Ultimo has been given a two tone paintjob, with the top half in grey and the sides (and roof) finished in naked high gloss carbon. The blue or almost turquoise accents are found on the race stripe, the wheel lips, the rear view mirrors and with a pinstripe running down the side of the car. The front splitter and rear diffuser also have a blue pinstripe to match.

The Pagani Huayra L'Ultimo is a work of automotive art)

In the interior, the Pagani Huayra L'Ultimo has been finished with while leather seats with black stitching along with a contrasting turquoise central console, central transmission tunnel cover and door pads. The carpets too have been matched in the same shade of turquoise. And of course, as with the exterior, the interior too gets a dollop and more of carbonfibre. While the car might not be to some people's taste, the Pagani Huayra L'Ultimo is certainly a proper work of automotive art.

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Hero Karizma ZMR, Hyundai AH2, BS IV, Lamborghini Aventador SVJ

The top automotive news of the day- Hero MotoCorp has re-launched the Karizma ZMR in India after discontinuing it a year and half ago. Hyundai will be launching its AH2 hatchback in October this year and will also reveal the name of the car. BS IV vehicles could be stopped being manufactured after BS VI emission norms come in from April 2020 and finally, Lamborghini Aventador SVJ is now the fastest production car to lap the Nurburgring.

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Harley-Davidson's New Partner May Not Be Hero MotoCorp

Harley-Davidson has announced a series of new models including an all-new 250-500 cc motorcycle targeted specifically at India and other emerging Asian markets, which will be launched by 2022. Sources in Hero MotoCorp have confirmed to Carandbike that the company is not working on any product plan with Harley-Davidson. Now, TVS Motor Company has a joint development collaboration with BMW Motorrad, Triumph Motorcycles has already announced small displacement motorcycles for India, and Asia, which will be developed with Bajaj Auto. On its part, Harley-Davidson has refused to divulge any more details about future products, and refused to comment on who will be its strategic partner in India or in the Asian region.

"We intend to enter into a strategic alliance in Asia to expedite market entry and increase brand access and volume, bridge to our larger motorcycles, leverage a world-class partner's manufacturing scale and retail footprint and enable an accessible price point for premium small displacement market entry," Harley-Davidson said in response to a query from Carandbike.

(The Harley-Davidson Street Rod and Street 750 are the largest selling Harleys in India)

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces 250-500 cc Motorcycle For Asia

Harley-Davidson is the still the largest selling premium motorcycle brand in India, with the made in India Street 750 and Street Rod being the bestsellers in the Indian market. With Hero ruled out, the other Indian two-wheeler manufacturer which could possibly be Harley-Davidson's new partner is Mahindra Two Wheelers. So far, though, it's too soon to speculate which Asian manufacturer will be Harley-Davidson's new strategic partner, or if at all it will be an Indian manufacturer.

What is certain is that with sales of Harley-Davidson slowing down in recent years, particularly in the US, it was only a matter of time before the American manufacturer started looking eastwards. India is the world's largest two-wheeler market and there's still tremendous growth in motorcycle sales volumes in India and emerging Asian markets, particularly with aspirational brands like Harley-Davidson which could be offered at more affordable prices.

(The Harley-Davidson Pan America will be the American brand's first adventure tourer)

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces Three New Models Including An Adventure Tourer

The other three models which will be launched by 2020 will include a 1250 cc adventure tourer, the Pan America, a 975 cc Streetfighter as well as a new 1250 cc Custom. Harley-Davidson's first electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, though is still sometime away from being launched in Asia. Harley-Davidson has confirmed that the LiveWire will first be launched in the US and Europe, where there's already existing infrastructure. As for an Asia launch for Harley-Davidson's electric bike, it could well be a few years away.

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MG Motor India Join Hands With IIT-Delhi To Develop In-Car Child Safety App

MG Motor India, a fully-owned subsidiary of China's largest carmaker SAIC Motor Corporation, announced its partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi for developing technologies and applications to boost in-car child safety. The project is titled 'Geofencing for child safety through ECU control', was announced at the FITT (Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer) silver jubilee function held at IIT Delhi campus on July 28.

Also Read: MG Motor India Launches MG Car Club For Classic Car Owners In India

The IIT Delhi project team is working on an application that will enable owners of upcoming MG cars in India to track and alert the whereabouts of their children, including the entry, exit in to the car as well as their seating position within the car. The application will also alert users if the car is driven beyond a pre-defined route map.

"MG Motor India continuously looks at providing a platform to innovators, students and start-ups to develop technologies and features for our upcoming cars that will be produced in India. This project has been conceptualized to fast-track realization of better child safety mechanisms in cars. IIT Delhi engineers will also conduct research and development activities to explore other car features that enhance child safety," said Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India.

Also Read: MG Motor Vehicles That Could Be Launched in India

Anil Wali, MD of FITT said, "IIT Delhi has been committed to developing the latest technologies in close collaboration with the leading industry players. We are glad to partner MG Motor India to research and develop applications to enhance in-car child safety, which is the need of the hour."

Ahead of its official entry in the Indian market, Motor India has already taken various initiatives to promote innovation amongst students and start-ups in India. The MG Innovation Program, launched in 2017, aims at fostering a culture of innovation. The company also conducted a hackathon on how to make transportation safer and cleaner with Navrachna University students in Vadodara, Gujarat.

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2018 Kia Stinger GT: Exclusive India Track Test

EXCLUSIVE: We drive the Kia Stinger on India's only Formula 1 track, the Buddh International Circuit or BIC. The Kia Stinger gets a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 puts out 365 bhp and a massive 510 Nm of peak torque. The new Kia Stinger isn't going to be coming to India immediately, although Kia is considering the car for the Indian market as a flagship product. The Kia Stinger is the first sports sedan by Kia and is perfect to take on a race track like the Buddh International Circuit with its sweeping fast corners and long straights.

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Harley-Davidson Announces 250 cc - 500 cc Motorcycle For Asia

Harley-Davidson has made a major announcement, confirming that it is working on a brand new small capacity motorcycle for Asia and especially for India. The big news here is that Harley-Davidson will be entering into a strategic partnership with an Asia-based two-wheeler company for manufacturing the 250 cc- 500 cc motorcycles, without mentioning who the new partner will be. TVS Motor Company has partnered with BMW, Bajaj Auto has announced a partnership with Triumph Motorcycles! So could we also see Harley-Davidson partnering with an Indian two-wheeler manufacturer in the future? We do sense a high possibility of that happening.

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces 3 New Motorcycles; One Is An Adventure Bikes

The company has categorically mentioned that this new product will be brought to India with intent of further broadening the customer access to Harley-Davidson motorcycles and also fuel the company's growth in India. The company has already been very successful with the Street 750 and India is an important market for Harley-Davidson. With sales slowing down, particularly in the US market, Harley-Davidson's new small capacity motorcycle will be launched keeping in mind the high volumes Asian markets, including the world's largest two-wheeler market that is India. Bajaj Auto and Triumph Motorcycles have already announced collaboration for developing and manufacturing smaller displacement motorcycles, and three motorcycle models from the TVS-BMW partnership have already been introduced, both in India and abroad.

Harley-Davidson hasn't yet confirmed what kind of motorcycle, the new small displacement model will be. After Harley's announcement, we are hoping that it will be something other than a cruiser. A sub 500 cc naked streetfighter or maybe and adventure bike from Harley looks like a delicious thought right now! Sure, these are early days and it still is open to speculation about what this new model will be, or who the new 'strategic partner' will be, but we won't be surprised if Harley-Davidson pulls a rabbit out of the hat.

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Harley-Davidson Announces Three New Motorcycles, Including An Adventure Tourer

Harley-Davidson has announced a complete overhaul of its motorcycle range by venturing into new segments, including an all-new adventure touring model by 2020. Also in the pipeline are two more models, including a middleweight streetfighter and a new Custom model. Harley-Davidson says the company will introduce a "new modular 500 cc to 1250 cc middleweight platform of motorcycles that spans three distinct product spaces and four displacements." The first of these models will be Harley-Davidson's first adventure touring motorcycle, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250.

For 2020, Harley-Davidson has planned three models in all - the Pan America 1250, a 1250 cc Custom model, designed on the lines of a Bobber, as well as a Streetfighter with a 975 cc engine. All three models are expected to be launched by 2020. Harley-Davidson has already released images of the prototypes, but the production models may have changes in the features and design. There seem to be no moving away from the v-twin architecture of the engines, and all three new models will have v-twin engines of different displacement.

"The bold actions we are announcing today leverage Harley-Davidson's vast capabilities and competitive firepower - our excellence in product development and manufacturing, the global appeal of the brand and of course, our great dealer network," said Matt Levatich, president and chief executive officer, Harley-Davidson, Inc. "Alongside our existing loyal riders, we will lead the next revolution of two-wheeled freedom to inspire future riders who have yet to even think about the thrill of riding."

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Announces 250-500 cc Model For Asia

(The upcoming Harley-Davidson Streetfighter will be powered by a 975 cc engine)

According to Harley-Davidson, the 'More Roads to Harley-Davidson' growth plan has been formulated keeping in mind the changing consumer demands, and the announcement support Harley-Davidson's 2027 objectives with "increased focus and strategic investment to reinvigorate the US business while accelerating the pace of international growth." The 'More Roads to Harley-Davidson' plan includes launching new products, providing broader access to customers, and improving the dealership network, and the Harley-Davidson customer experience.

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Retail Sales Down In Q2 Of 2018

(The upcoming Harley-Davidson 1250 Custom is expected to get a design inspired by Bobbers)

More importantly, Harley-Davidson has also announced a more accessible, small displacement (250 cc - 500 cc) motorcycle for Asia and emerging markets. Without getting into details, Harley-Davidson has announced that this new small displacement model will be developed through a planned strategic alliance with a manufacturer in Asia. The American motorcycle manufacturer plans to have broader distribution with this new product, and is intended to fuel Harley-Davidson's customer access and growth in India, one of the largest, fastest growing markets in the world, as well as other Asian markets.

Harley-Davidson has also announced that the company's first electric motorcycle, the Harley-Davidson LiveWire, will be launched in 2019, followed by additional electric models through 2022. The other models will expand the portfolio with "lighter, smaller and even more accessible product options to inspire new riders with new ways to ride." Harley-Davidson says it will provide broader access by creating "high engagement customer experiences across all retail channels" and will establish strategic alliances with global e-commerce providers as well as develop new retail formats, including smaller, urban storefronts globally to give more exposure to the brand.

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Porsche Taycan Technical Specifications Revealed

Porsche showcased the Taycan electric car in June this year, and while we have been waiting for its official launch next year, the company has gone ahead and released the technical specifications. Porsche will foray into the electric car segment with the Taycan, and according to the company, by 2025 every second Porsche car sold will be with an electric motor. The Taycan will be the flagship electric product from Porsche and without taking up any of your time, we list the technical specifications of the upcoming Porsche Taycan. The company also announced that it plans to invest 6 billion euros in electro mobility through 2022.

(The Porsche Taycan will go into production next year)

Also Read: Porsche's Electric Car To Be Called Taycan

The new Porsche Taycan will sport two permanently excited synchronous electric motors that are capable of churning out max power of 600bhp and will juice out travel range of more than 500kms with its high voltage lithium-ion batteries. The two permanently excited synchronous motors, like those deployed in the Le Mans-winning 919 Hybrid, generate a permanent rotary motion that can be applied at any time without needing to be started.

(The Porsche Taycan gets an extremely roomy cabin)

Also Read: Porsche Taycan: All You Need To Know

Heiko Mayer, Drive Unit Project Leader, Porsche said, "We opted for a permanently excited synchronous motor in the Taycan. They combine a high energy density with strong sustained performance and maximum efficiency."

(The Porsche Taycan has the ability to travel 500km on a single charge)

Also Read: Porsche Taycan Caught Testing In The U.S.

Moreover, the Taycan, with its 800-volt chargers, can fast charge its electric motors within 15 minutes, which can return a 400km range. It can go from 0-100kmph in under 3.5 seconds and Porsche says that the Taycan is not just sporty, but also practical, and the figures do speak for themselves. Porsche employs the Combined Charging System as the standard in Europe and the US for alternating current (AC) charging and direct current (DC) charging. For Japan and China, Porsche will offer the local standards.

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Maruti Suzuki Opens Its 450th Driving School In India

Maruti Suzuki today announced the inauguration of its 450th Driving School in India. The newest Maruti Driving School has been opened in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, expanding the network to 212 cities across the country. The company claims that over 5.3 lakh people have received training from Maruti Driving School in the last five years, out of which over 1.75 lakh people were trained in 2017-18 alone. The company also pointed out that out the total number of people who have received training from MDS across India, 46 per cent are women drivers.

Maruti Driving Schools (MDS) are advanced training centres that are equipped with special driving simulators that replicate the Indian driving conditions. The centres use specially designed vehicles are used to offer practical training and students are also provided with classroom theory lectures, which are based on a scientific and structured curriculum. In fact, instructors themselves have to undergo a rigorous driving training and also follow refresher courses every year, which ensures that quality training is given to the people.

Commenting on the inauguration of the latest driving school, R S Kalsi, Senior Executive Director, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, "Road accidents are the cause of over 1.5 lakh deaths every year in India. Driver fault is seen as a prominent reason for such accidents. As a leader, Maruti Suzuki initiated a structured and contemporary driving skill program in 2005. Based on international best practices this Maruti Driving School initiative has so far trained over 1 million people. We believe that a scientifically designed driving training program will help to make Indian roads safer. Our aim is to continue expanding the Maruti Driving School network and train 1.5 million people on quality driving skills through MDS by 2020."

In addition to its own Maruti Driving School, the carmaker also manages seven Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTRs) across the country in partnership with State Governments. IDTRs centres offer advanced driving training, promote the use of technologies such as driving simulators, and also train driving instructors.

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5 Best 200 cc Bikes In India

The 200 cc to 300 cc segment of motorcycles is one of the largest growing two-wheeler segments in India. And with more and more offerings coming up every year, customers who are looking for a motorcycle which straddles between being sporty and practical have more options to choose from. The 200 cc bikes in India are fast becoming popular, especially with the youth who want a motorcycle that offers decent enough performance without being too heavy on the pocket in terms of price and fuel economy. Here is our list of best 200 cc bikes in India.

Also Read: Best 150 cc Bikes In India

Bajaj Pulsar NS200

(2017 Bajaj Pulsar NS200)

The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is one of most popular 200 cc bikes in India. First introduced in 2012, the Pulsar NS200 has been a decent-selling model from Bajaj and since then has got a generation update. The 2017 model gets ABS as an option and is priced at a slight premium than on the non-ABS version. The Pulsar NS200 gets a 199.5 cc single-cylinder engine which makes 23.5 bhp and is paired to a 6-speed transmission. The Pulsar NS200 standard is priced at Rs. 99,411 while the Pulsar NS200 ABS is priced at Rs. 1, 11,411, a difference of approximately Rs. 12,000 (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). Bajaj claims a top speed of 135 kmph on the Pulsar NS200 while the motorcycle offers a fuel efficiency figure of approximately 35 kilometres to the litre. Should you like your motorcycles with a fairing, you could also look at purchasing the Bajaj RS200 as well.

Also Read: Best 125 cc Bikes In India

Hero Xtreme 200R

(The Hero Xtreme 200R is a very important motorcycle for Hero MotoCorp)

The Hero Xtreme 200R is the latest 200 cc motorcycle to be launched in India. Priced at Rs. 88,000, currently, the bike has been silently launched in the North Eastern states of India. Hero is yet to launch the bike in other states of India. The bike is an all-new model with typically restrained styling. It is not as butch or aggressive as some of the other bikes in this list. The bike features a part analogue part digital console and also gets a single-channel ABS as a standard feature. The 200 cc engine on the Xtreme 200R is a bored out version of the Achiever's 150 cc engine. It makes 18.1 bhp and 17.1 Nm of peak torque with the power being sent to the rear wheel via a 5-speed transmission. One can expect fuel efficiency of about 40-43 kmpl from the Hero Xtreme 200R.

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

(TVS Apache RTR 200 4V)

Launched in 2016, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is one of the best-selling 200 cc bikes in India. Aggressive styling, good performance and a good thing is that the bike has a lot of variants. It can be specified with either a carburetted or a fuel injected engine, ABS or non-ABS and even the tyres. One can buy the Apache RTR 200 4V with regular TVS tyres on opt for stickier Pirelli tyres. The Apache RTR 200 4V gets a 197 cc engine which makes 20.7 bhp and 18.1 Nm of peak torque. The bike is mated to a 5-speed transmission although we would have loved to see a 6-speed gearbox on the same. The Apache RTR 200 4V is loaded with features such as a comprehensive fully digital instrument console, ABS, LED daytime running lamp, step-seat and much more. The bike offers excellent performance and with prices starting from Rs. 1.02 lakh and going up till Rs. 1.16 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).

Yamaha FZ25

(Yamaha FZ25)

Launched in early 2017, the Yamaha FZ25 might not have set the sales chart on fire but is a seriously good offering in the 200 cc - 250 cc segment. It is refined, has great design, has got features such as LED headlamp, fully digital instrument console, step-seat but misses out on ABS, even as an option. The FZ25 gets a 249 cc engine which makes 20 bhp and 20 Nm with the engine being paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Yamaha claims that the FZ25 will be able to go on for 40 kilometres on a litre of petrol. The bike is one of the best-looking in this segment and with a price of Rs. 1.19 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi).

KTM 200 Duke

(2017 KTM 200 Duke)

Perhaps the hottest 200 cc offering in India, the KTM 200 Duke is one of the best 200 cc bikes that you can buy in India right now. Priced at Rs. 1.46 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) the 200 Duke is surely expensive, but with that price, you get a stonker of a 200 cc single-cylinder engine which makes 25 bhp along with 19.2 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and it has a claimed fuel efficiency of 35 kmpl. It continues to have a blistering performance. The KTM 200 Duke was launched in India in 2012 and it got a major update last year in terms of new colour options and updated graphics. The bike weighs 5kg heavier than the previous model but the difference is imperceptible. The bike is rich in features too with a fully digital instrument console, ABS and the works. In case you fancy motorcycles with a fairing, you can also look at buying the KTM RC 200.

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Big BoyToyz Opens New Showroom In Mumbai

If you want high-end sports cars, well, Big Boy Toyz, is one place to go for them. The company opened a new store in Maharashtra and the city of course was Mumbai. It has invested a total of Rs. 15-20 crore in the state-of-the-art showroom which is big enough to showcase 8 luxury cars. The brand has had high-end clientele like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Yuvraj Singh and Dinesh Kartik, Singer Honey Singh and a host of Bollywood celebrities including Anushka Sharma, Neha Dhupia and Prince Narula. With the new store, the brand wants to make the luxury cars more accessible than before.

Jatin Ahuja, Founder and Managing Director, Big Boy Toyz said, "We have already enabled many Mumbai-based celebrities to own iconic luxury vehicles and we are now geared up to make deeper inroads into the Mumbai luxury car market with our state-of-the-art new showroom. We are certain that the line-up of cars on display and the digital-first experience that the showroom will offer, will make it a big hit with auto aficionados in the city."

The company also has a service centre to deal with the service needs of its clients. However, the centre is in Delhi and when asked about how it plans to cater to the clientele in Mumbai Jatin Ahuja said, "We are capable to cater to the service needs of our customers and we'll be able to fly our trained technicians down to make sure that the customers get the best service possible." Apart from a buy-back agreement, customers also get a 6 month or 15,000 km warranty on the drivetrain of the car, which is a big deal and also a first in the country.

The brands sells around 30 per cent of its cars in the Delhi-NCR region, while the Southern part of India is now seeing a hike in demand. And this means that there is still room for expansion. "We are planning to open one more store and this will help us cover majority of our clients. We are looking to open a new showroom in Hyderabad and we are still closing in on the details, so can't share where and when it'll open." Says Ahuja

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€5 Million Bugatti Divo Hypercar Teased Again

After teasing the name for its all new hypercar called the 'Divo', Bugatti has put out yet another teaser. The new teaser doesn't really showcase much of the car but it does showcase a new set of absolutely bonkers tail lamps that have been made from a series of LEDs or OLEDs placed in what appears to be a very random sequence. The teaser also showcases the car starting up and driving away showcasing a very aggressive and rather loud exhaust note, which is very unlike the likes of the Veyron and the Chiron. The new 'Divo' will be launched in August at 'The Quail - A Motorsports Gathering' as a part of the Monterey Car Week. The Monterey Car Week will also see the launch of the highly anticipated new BMW Z4 and the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.

(Bugatti Divo features new LED or OLEd tail lamps)

The new Bugatti Divo is a very limited edition hypercar and will be limited to just 40 cars each valued at about €5 Million each! The name 'Divo' is a tribute to legendary French racing driver Alberto Divo and is apt as this will be the most track focused modern Bugatti. The new car will be noticeably different from the Chiron and is not expected to use the Chiron nomenclature anywhere. Instead it is expected to be a totally separate model altogether, which explains the changes in the tail area (and tail lamps) between the Chiron and the Divo.

(Bugatti Divo)

According to a statement by the Volkswagen Group owned hypercar maker, the Bugatti Chiron will be "nimble and will boast enormous downforce and g-forces" while getting a custom body design that will make it stand out from the crowd of million dollar hypercars that are available today. The car will be even more agile than the Chiron and more importantly, more agile that the recently showcased Chiron Sport. Bugatti has been very clear that this new hypercar has been 'Built for Corners', which means it could be slower than the likes of the Chiron in terms of outright top speed.

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