New Phantom Coupe to be launched at Geneva Motor Show

ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM COUPE

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will display its new Phantom Coupe at the Geneva Motor Show.

Supposedly the most driver-orientated model in the Phantom line, the car is said to be capable of boasting of a number of subtle but significant modifications that have made it dynamic and comfortable. Production of the Phantom Coupe will start at Goodwood in the summer of 2008.

Rolls-Royce has designed the new beauty to cover great distances effortlessly. Powered by a 6.75-litre V12 that produces 453 bhp, 720 Nm of torque, the car also brings in fuel efficiency that ever before.

Rolls Royce Chief designer, Ian Cameron, has said that they have given the Rolls-Royce design a dynamic twist while creating the machine. "This adds a sense of drama to the outstanding engineering and drivability that are fundamentals of Rolls-Royce cars."

According to auto news, the Phantom Coupe comes with rear-hinged coach doors which add considerably to the ease of access to the rear lounge seats as well as to the overall aesthetics. It has a split tail compartment that opens in two parts, gives easy access to 395 liters of space too. Built on an aluminum chassis, the car comes across as lightweight but is exceptionally strong.

Other features include slim LED sidelights, a gentle raked grille, and a continuous A-pillar.

Tata OneCat compressed air car by 2009

TATA ONECAT COMPRESSED AIR CAR TO BE LAUNCHED BY 2009

Tata Motors plans to launch the OneCat, a car running on compressed air by 2009.

The car is expected to be a five-seater with a glass fiber body, which would weigh just 350 kg and cost just about Rs 2 lakh. The project is backed for an undisclosed sum by Tata, which says it may also use the technology for power generation.

A BBC report has pointed out that Tata's backing makes the idea much more marketable and that the Indian company will be putting finishing touches to the engine.

French engineer Negre is planning to sell the car in India by 2009, the report said. He hopes that the first buyers of the compressed air car will be people who care about the environment and would sell it for an economical price. Tata would be the only big firm Negre will license to sell the car and sales will be limited to India.

The car will be driven by compressed air stored in carbon-fiber tanks that can be filled in just three minutes. The tanks will be built into the chassis. The car can also be plugged into the mains for four hours and an on-board compressor will do the job.

For long journeys, the compressed air driving the pistons can be boosted by a fuel burner which heats the air so it expands and increases the pressure on the pistons. The burner will use all kinds of liquid fuel.

Chevrolet 2009 Corvette ZR1 unveiled

CHEVROLET 2009 CORVETTE ZR1

Chevrolet has revealed the 2009 Corvette ZR1. The company brings together technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design, said an auto news report. Chevrolet has said that its goal with the new ZR1 was to show what an American super car can deliver. That too at a lower price compared with other peer models that sport price tags around three times more than its price.

ZR1 comes with a new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 that could produce at least 100 horsepower per liter. Six-speed, manual transmission, high-capacity dual-disc clutch, higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube, twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, standard magnetic selective ride control with track-level suspension and many such new features make the ZR1 a vehicle that can be called a super car.

The report added that the car is the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors. The company which plans a summer 2008 launch would reveal its performance estimates a few days ahead of the launch date.

The ZR1 builds on the highly respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed. The LS9 is hand-assembled at GM's Performance Build Center, in Wixom, Michigan and incorporates specialty processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. The new LS9 engine is backed by a new, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort.

The Chevrolet 2009 Corvette ZR1 comes with a twin-disc clutch system which employs a pair of discs. The clutch system spreads out the engine's torque load over a wider area and enables tremendous clamping power when the clutch is engaged.

Hummer HX Concept to be launched

HUMMER HX CONCEPT

Hummer plans to roll out its new HX Concept car at the Geneva Auto Show in March 2008.

Hummer has brought in its exclusive design into this entry-level, open-air vehicle that packs the off-road acumen for which Hummer has become legendary into an easily convertible body, said an auto news report. The new concept vehicle comes across as a reconfigurable off-road concept vehicle.

According to the company, the HX is Hummer's trail-ready, open-air vehicle that fits the lifestyles of everyone who needs or wants to drive off road and it carries an off-road capability that's termed as exceptional .

The car has a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger, and a modular, removable rear roof assembly. As the panels get removed, the HX can be transformed into a convertible. The Hummer HX can also be configured into an SUT, a stylish slant-back or a traditional, wagon-like design that offers a bit more cargo space. One may even remove the doors. The HX is made of a sturdy, body-on-frame construction.

Round headlamps in square housings, an upright windshield profile, minimal overhangs, hood vents and prominent air intakes are the pluses. The seats take off from an aircraft-inspired design. Powered by an E85 FlexFuel 3.6L direct-injected V-6 engine, the car boasts of a six-speed automatic transmission. The advanced V6 and six-speed transmission come about as an efficient package making the concept vehicle a must try when it gets introduced.

Suzuki Kizashi concept car for Frankfurt

Kizashi? The Europeans are gonna have a bit of trouble pronouncing that one.

Suzuki, best known for its ultra successful small cars such as the Alto and the Swift, are now getting serious about the large car business. And the Kizashi is concept car on which those plans are based. The Kizashi concept will be unveiled before the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2007, starting on Sep 13th.

The photos of theSuzuki Kizashi concept look a bit over the top to me. But we can be sure the production versions based on this will be a lot more sober than this!

The plans are to develop the Kizashi platform with a hatchback, a stationwagon and a sedan. A 1.6-litre variable valve engine producing 110 bhp and a 2.0-litre engine with 138 bhp are being considered.

The Suzuki Kizashi cars are going to be the company’s largest production car, and will take the battle to the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic.

Suzuki’s other mid-size car that has been succesful in some markets is the SX4 - in India, a sedan and in other countries, a hatch. The only serious SUV from Suzuki has been the Grand Vitara, which has been reasonably successful in the international markets.

What you are seeing here is a rendering - not a photo. No official photos have been released yet, but when it happens - we expect a couple of days before the opening of the Motor Show - we will have a photo gallery ready for you.

Volkswagen Tiguan launch in February 2008

Volkswagen's Tiguan is all set to debut in February 2008. The compact 4x4 SUV was showcased at the Frankfurt motor show in September 2006.

The Tiguan will be available in three different variants, namely Trend & Fun, Sport & Style, and Track & Field. The Track & Field variant will have a different front, will be custom made for all terrains, and will come with electronic devices for better off-road performance.

The company is making sure that all engines are turbocharged and some of then will sport an additional mechanical compressor. Volkswagen will also introduce a new new electro-mechanic power-steering system and the vehicles’ minimum wheel size will be 16/265/65.

The Tiguan, which will be larger than the Touran MPV, is reported to be 4.4 m long and 1.6m wide. It will initially be available with a choice of either a 2.0-litre 138bhp TDI diesel engine (the expected best-seller) or a 1.4-litre 148bhp PS TSI petrol unit. Another diesel and two more petrol engines will be added to the range later in 2008. The Tiguan has VW's 4 Motion four-wheel-drive system and an 18-degree angle of approach.

Volkswagen has said that Tiguan’s name is derived from the suggestions made by around 3,50,000 readers of Germany’s Auto Bild magazine, who chose Tiguan over four other equally strange titles. The name is a fusion of the words Tiger and Leguan, which means iguana in German.

Diesel engine cars from GM by 2010

Come year 2010, and auto behemoth General Motors (GM) is likely to roll out diesel-engine cars under the Cadillac and Saturn brands in the United States.

An auto industry magazine has said that GM would thereby join Daimler, Volkswagen, Japanese major Nissan Motor, and Honda Motor in promising diesel cars compliant with the American Tier 2 bin 5 emissions standards. GM is likely to exhibit its new diesel engine at the Frankfurt auto show, in September 2007, on an e-flex Opel Vectra.

The GM e-flex machine would come with a traditional engine that recharges a battery pack, which provides power for an electric motor. The company is also expected to show case the same variant at the Detroit auto show in January on a Saturn, most likely the Aura sedan. The diesel engine will power the Opel Vectra in Europe in 2008, and the next-generation Aura in the United States if all goes as planned.

With the United States starting to enforce strict regulations for harmful nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions by 2008, these companies would begin work on their diesel cars. The nation expects that automakers would use clean diesel engines in passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, and other light-duty trucks. It has been reported that emissions hardware and control systems needed to meet the standards would add another $2,000 to $2,800 to the $1,000-$2,000 premium that already exists for diesels over gasoline-engine cars.

Meanwhile, Toyota Motor seems to have decided not to join the growing list. The reason being cited is that clean diesels would end up being more expensive than gasoline-electric hybrids, a segment the company dominates.

Land Rover LRX concept to debut at the Detroit Auto Show

The Detroit Auto Show that gets underway in January 2008 will see Land Rover showcase a concept with futuristic designs. Land rover's LRX concept will debut at the Detroit Auto Show.

The concept is said to be a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand’s progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. The compact three-door LRX comes with a lighter weight and sustainability focused technologies. An auto news report has pointed out that that the LRX concept may deliver the powerful message that the company has about sustainability.

The new concept comes with a Land Rover design and carries features into a segment where the brand has never been before, it added. Described as a cross-coupe, the concept has been conceived as a premium car, designed to appeal to new customers in the luxury and executive sector.

The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company's design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models with a car that will help to define a new segment. Its many recognizable Land Rover design cues include bold new interpretations of the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof, and the solid ‘wheel-at-each-corner’ stance.

Land rover has said that the LRX is a design born out of passion for the brand, but is different, relevant, engaging and exciting because Land Rover has never built ordinary cars. It has a highly desirable identity and the design alludes strongly to its capability, while clearly underlining our forward-looking philosophy – it's a Land Rover that would be comfortable on Bond Street or Fifth Avenue, but wouldn’t flinch at getting its wheels dirty, the report added.

The company is said to be determined to make sustainability a key element in its future product design, creating vehicles that have a strong emotional appeal as well as fulfilling people's practical needs.

Fiat 500 is the Car of the Year 2008

An international jury comprising as many as 58 specialist journalists from 22 European countries has picked the Fiat 500 for the Car of the Year 2008 award.

Fiat’s compact car bagged the award raking in as many as 385 votes, more than Mazda 2’s 325 votes and the Ford Mondeo’s 202 votes. An auto industry report said that this was the second time that an A-segment model has won the most prestigious award in the world car industry.

Pointing out that the first such laurel went to the Fiat Pandain in 2004, it added that the record has pushed up the total Fiat Group wins to 12. While the Fiat 124 won in 1967, Fiat 128 won in 1970, Fiat 127 in 1972, Lancia Delta in 1980, Fiat Uno in 1984, Fiat Tipo in 1989, Fiat Punto in 1995, Fiat Bravo/Brava in 1996, Alfa 156 in 1998, Alfa 147 in 2001, Fiat Panda in 2004 and now the Fiat 500 for 2008. The award ceremony for Car of the Year 2008, organised by the German magazine Stern, will take place in Berlin on 28 January 2008.

The Fiat 500 model was unveiled at the start of July 2007. Customers poured into the showrooms and more than 105,000 orders were taken in just four months in Italy and France. The report added that the rest of Europe is also all for it with a total of 6,300 orders already placed in Germany after the car went on sale just a few weeks ago.

Auto analysts certify that this is the first time that a car barely 3.55 metres long has been awarded a 5-star crash safety rating by Euro NCAP and also the first time a car in this segment has seven airbags fitted as standard, with the advanced ESP available on all models. Another first is the fact that a model has been launched with the entire range of power units, i.e., 1.2 69 bhp, 1.3 MultiJet 75 bhp with DPF and 1.4 16v 100 bhp, Euro 5 emission standards.

A broad range has also brought to Fiat 500 brownie points. Customers can also choose from 15 interiors including the prestigious Cordura and Frau Leather, nine types of road wheel, and 19 sticker treatments, for a total of more than 500,000 variations.

Mercedes-Benz Bionic Car modelled on Boxfish! News and photo gallery

The Mercedes Bionic concept car offers exceptional aerodynamics, fuel Consumption and emissions. Browse the photo gallery

DaimlerChrysler is using a new concept vehicle to examine the great potential of bionics for automobile development, and has achieved outstanding results for fuel consumption and emissions with a combination of pioneering diesel engine technology and innovative emission control methods. The Mercedes-Benz bionic car study had its world premiere at today's DaimlerChrysler Innovation Symposium in Washington.

To realise the Mercedes-Benz bionic car, the engineers at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Centre and the DaimlerChrysler Research department have for the first time looked for a specific example in nature which not only approximates to the idea of an aerodynamic, safe, comfortable and environmentally compatible car in terms of details, but as a formal and structural whole. The example arrived at was the boxfish.

Despite its boxy, cube-shaped body, this tropical fish is in fact outstandingly streamlined and therefore represents an aerodynamic ideal. With an accurately constructed model of the boxfish the engineers in Stuttgart were able to achieve a wind drag coefficient of just 0.06 in the wind tunnel.

In order to use this great potential for automobile development purposes, specialists at DaimlerChrysler first created a 1:4 car model whose shape was substantially based on the boxfish. During tests in the wind tunnel, a drag coefficient of 0.095 -- a previously unprecedented value in automotive engineering -- was measured for this clay model. It corresponds to the values achieved with highly streamlined shapes (Cd 0.09) and other aerodynamically ideal forms.

DaimlerChrysler utilised the findings from this research during the development of the Mercedes-Benz bionic car, a fully functioning and roadworthy compact car with a length of 4.24 metres and space for four occupants plus luggage. With a Cd value of just 0.19, this concept vehicle is among the most aerodynamically efficient in this size category.

20 percent lower fuel consumption and up to 80 percent lower nitrogen oxide emissions

In addition to superb aerodynamics and a lightweight construction concept derived from nature, the 103 kW/140-hp diesel engine and innovative SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) greatly contribute to fuel economy
and a further reduction in exhaust emissions. In the EU driving cycle the concept car has a fuel consumption of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres - 20 less than a comparable series-production car. In accordance with the US measuring method (FTP 75) the range is around 70 miles per US gallon (combined), which is about 30 percent more than for a standard-production car. At a constant speed of 90 km/h the direct-injection diesel unit consumes only 2.8 litres per
100 kilometres- corresponding to a range of 84 miles per gallon in the US test cycle.

DaimlerChrysler is currently testing its SCR technology worldwide. By this means, and with the additional operating fluid "AdBlue", the nitrogen oxide emissions of the direct-injection diesel engine can be reduced by up to 80 percent. The aim of these trials is to avoid the fuel consumption disadvantages by optimising the in-engine combustion processes. This is where Mercedes-Benz car engineers are benefiting from the experience gained by their colleagues in the commercial vehicle sector, where SCR technology is already in successful use. DaimlerChrysler also intends to use the great potential of this process for diesel passenger cars in future, and will initially be offering SCR technology in the USA when the trials have been completed.

"AdBlue" is an aqueous urea solution which is sprayed into the exhaust system in precisely metered quantities, depending on the engine operating status. This converts the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water. The reservoir for this service fluid is located in the spare wheel recess of the concept car, and its capacity is sufficient for a mileage corresponding to the service interval for a current Mercedes diesel model. The Mercedes-Benz bionic car study is also equipped with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter.

Great rigidity and low weight - a growth principle designed by nature

The boxfish, the aerodynamic model for the concept car, is also a prime example of rigidity and light weight. Its skin consists of numerous hexagonal, bony plates which provide maximum strength with minimal weight and effectively
protect the animal from injury.

DaimlerChrysler researchers examined this bionic structure and transferred this principle to the Mercedes-Benz bionic car study with the help of a special calculation process. The process is based on the principles of bone formation and for instance allows up to 40 percent more rigidity to be achieved in the external door panelling than would be possible with
conventional designs. If the entire bodyshell is calculated according to this bionic principle, the total weight is reduced by around one third with undiminished strength and crash safety.

Volkswagen Jetta launch in India soon

After the launch of the passat, Volkswagen is gearing up to launch the Volkswagen Jetta, its trump card for the Indian C-size market.

The Volkswagen Jetta will be pitted against the mid-size market leader Honda City, close combatant maruti sx4 and others like Chevrolet Aveo and Ford Fiesta. The second offering from Volkswagen India, the Jetta will be made at the Aurangabad plant of Skoda, which is a Volkswagen subsidiary.

Volkswagen has ignored the Indian market for long enough, preferring to launch the Skoda Octavias and Superbs when the Koreans and Japanese have carved up the mid-size car market among themselves. Now, Volkswagen is poised to launch the Jetta into a market that is red-hot with competition.

The Jetta will come to India in petrol and diesel versions, the diesel Jetta fitted with the same 1.9 litre engine which comes standard in Skoda Octavia. There will be a 1.6 litre petrol edition too. The Jetta will come with five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions, the latter possibly with six gears. The petrol model of Volkswagen Jetta is expected to come with two engine options: 100 BHP and 115 BHP.

The Volkswagen Jetta is actually the small car Volkswagen Golf, with a boot. (By the way, Golf too will be launched in India, though only later) However, the exteriors have been refined for a large car. The car will be the longest and widest in its category - yes, wider than even the Logan. The Jetta is based on the same A5 platform on which the Golf and the Skoda Laura are based.

Volkswagen will be able to price the Jetta competitively, since the car will be built in India at the Skoda plant from CKDs. Production will continue here till the Pune plant of Volkswagen goes on stream. At a later stage, Volkswagen hopes to roll out the Passat, Jetta and Golf from the Pune plant. It's not confirmed yet, but the Jetta will initially come as completely-knocked-down (CKD) kits from the Volkswagen plant in Mexico, where the bulk of Jettas are made for the global markets.

Volkswagen is building its Pune plant at a cost of Rs 2,450-crore, which will have the capacity to churn out 110,000 cars every year. It has been reported that even the Volkswagen Beetle may roll out of this plant in 2010.

On the exteriors, the Jetta's front does not look as sporty as the new Honda City or the Maruti SX4. The Jetta is more in the league of the understated elegance of the Passat and the Skoda. This is partly due to its pedigree -- the Jetta has been on the roads since 1980. Though the car has been refined over the nearly-three-decades, it has not had a complete facelift ever.

The Jetta goes by different names in different countries. It is also called Volkswagen Bora, Volkswagen GLI, Volkswagen Sagitar and Volkswagen Vento.

The Volkswagen Jetta is built with high-strength steel. Expect the same solidity and reliability of the ubiquitous Skoda. The foreign models of Jetta have a specially-designed door with an outer panel, which can be changed without changing the entire panel if damaged. There are six airbags in the running models of Volkswagen Jetta abroad, both for front and rear passengers, but it remains to be seen if the Indian models will have them. Two, we guess. Anti-lock braking system will be standard.

The Jetta has specially-designed headlamps with a VW logo integrated into the reflector.

The Mark 5 version of the Jetta in use abroad has often confused the regular car user. To reduce wear and tear, the windscreen wiper slightly changes its position on every parking, which may concern the user. Also, on cold start, the Jetta engine is noisier than usual, since a secondary air pump is in action for better start to the engine. It remains to be seen if the Volkswagen Jetta in India will come loaded with these features. The Mark 5 is the model currently in production abroad, including in Germany. A BS Motoring report said that the same model will be offered in India too.

According to a BS Motoring report, Volkswagen is likely to launch the Jetta in India at a price tag of Rs 7-9 lakh. Now, at this price, it is guaranteed to take a chunk of the mid-size market, since Honda will be ready with the completely-revamped New City only in 2009. Till then, Jetta will have a free ride, with only SX4 for competition. Last year, India's C segment of mid-sized cars saw the sale of 2 lakh cars. Volkswagen hopes to make a mark in this segment with the Jetta.

Renaultsport version of Laguna likely

French automaker Renault is said to be mulling over the possibility of rolling out a Renaultsport version of the Laguna.

Laguna is expected to get an innovative four-wheel steering system called Active Drive and the concept of the new vehicle is likely to be announced at
the forthcoming frankfurt auto show.

The new steering system, according to an auto industry report, will debut in the Laguna Coupé, late in 2008 and then would be tried in the standard car.
Meanwhile, reports added that at high speeds the Active Drive system, increases stability and helps the driver perform extreme maneuvers. It added that the system at low speed provides extra maneuverability .

The Active Drive technology is seen by auto experts as something that could point the way to the Laguna getting the Renaultsport performance badge. The company is thinking of having a chassis with four-wheel steering that could be used as the base for the car.

Though the decision on what engine would be used is pending, the company is keen on building the car with customer specifications in mind. The launch of the standard Laguna and the Coupe is expected by the end of 2008.

Mahindra AXE army vehicle

Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) has announced the launch of Axe its army off-roader model. The company plans to sell the vehicle to the armed forces
of India and Israeli. M&M is expected to invest close to $7 million in developing Axe.

According to industry reports, the Axe is being tested by the Israeli Army and will soon be tested by the Indian Army as well. M&M plans to begin commercial production of the vehicle as soon as the it receives the order from the Army.

However, the company has clarified that it is not at all thinking of a civilian version of Axe. The company is sourcing the engine for Axe from an Israeli
firm and has no plans to develop its own engine for the off-roader. The Mahindras will continue to source the engine and as of now has no plans to put in their own engine.

The Mahindras, who are looking at a possible United States foray by 2009, said that M&M sales, including that of Logan, has grown 37 per cent in April-August 2007. The momentum is expected to be maintained during the remaining part of the fiscal, it is believed. It has been reported that the Indian automobile industry’s growth in the second half would continue at 10-12 per cent and M&M expects itself to continue growing at about the industry average.

Tata compressed air car production in 2008

Come 2008, and the Tatas will be ready with their Rs 1-lakh car. It is learnt that this will not be the only affordable technology that Tata Motors will introduce next year.

The Tatas are said to be mulling over bringing out cars fired by compressed air, the cheapest auto fuel in the world, said a report. Tata Motors will begin production of cars running on air fuel in 2008.

Expected to sport a price tag similar to that of the current Indica range, which is around Rs 3.5 lakh, the compressed air car is likely to look like the European variant called MiniCAT.

It is said that this car has the potential to deliver the lowest running cost across all passenger car segments, and could be much lower than CNG. The cost of a fuel refill would be about Rs 90, and each refill is expected to deliver a distance in the range of 150-200 km.

These pollution-free vehicles are expected to deliver a maximum speed of up to 220 km/hour and their debut may coincide with the launch of the Rs 1-lakh car, next year. Though the company has not confirmed the launch of the compressed air cars, it is believed that the engine and the technology is being further refined, and will require a couple of years more. Auto experts opine that Tata Motors is experimenting with the technology on its different models and mass production of the compressed air car could commence in 2008, for the domestic market.

It may be noted that Tata Motors had signed an agreement, earlier in 2007, with Moteur Development International (MDI) of France to source technology to develop engines powered by compressed air.

BMW to launch M3 and M5 sports sedans in India

German carmaker Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) on Tuesday said it plans to launch its sports car M series in India by 2008. The luxury carmaker’s announcement comes in the backdrop of an enthusiastic response to its products in the country.

BMW also announced the market launch of its luxury sedan 5 series. BMW said the prices of the 5 series will be in the range of Rs 37-45 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.

The German luxury carmaker has been apparently buoyed by the response it got from the country, selling 424 units of its 3 and 7 series.

This has also acted as a trigger for BMW to revise its target upwards by 20% from 1,000 to 1,200 units this calendar year.

BMW India President Peter Krnoschnabl was quoted as saying that July sales is expected to exceed the 100 unit mark.

BMW, which is also launching the SUV X5 later this year, says it has already bagged good orders for the 5 series.

BMW said its M series cars M3 and M5 will be rolled out as imports in the country, albeit as per orders from potential buyers.

The 3 series would cost between Rs 26 lakh to Rs 33 lakh, the carmaker said. BMW also sees the 3 series to be the primarily power its growth in the country.

BMW also has set ambitious targets for its 7 Series, which is a super luxury sedan.

The 7 Series will be priced in the Rs 74 lakh to Rs 1.25 crore range. BMW has set a sales target of 170 units for the 7 Series.

With this BMW will have a 5 product portfolio in India, including the X3 and X5 SUVs, apart from the 3,5,7 Series vehicles.

BMW, which has eight dealers in the country, is trying to expand its dealer base also as it raises its targets. By 2009, BMW plans to have 12 or more dealers in India.

The Munich headquartered BMW, founded by Karl Friedrich Rapp in 1917, had revenues of 49 billion euros in 2006 globally.

Meanwhile, BMW is likely to report a fall in quarterly global profit as rising production costs and the surge of euro against the dollar slashes its revenues from the US. The surge in rubber and steel costs are also a cause of worry for BMW. Last year, 24% of BMW’s revenues came from North America and only 22% from Germany, while United Kingdom contributed 11% and Asia chipped in with 13% of sales. The remaining revenues came from Europe.

No small car for $3000, says Ford

Small cars, yes. But not for $3000. This is what the Indian unit of US auto maker Ford Motor Co has clearly stated.

It is a known fact that as much as 80 per cent of the Indian car market comprises small cars, the main player in the segment being Maruti Udyog. Meanwhile, Tata Motors has already begun work on a car that will cost Rs 1 lakh. But, Ford is not thinking on the same lines. Ford bosses have clarified that the company isn’t looking at a $3,000 price tag. According to Ford India Managing Director and President Arvind Mathew, what the company is looking at is a small car but not at that price point.

However, much interest has been generated by the proposed Rs 1 lakh Tata car. Ford India Managing Director Mathew has said that he is just curious as to what this car will look like. Meanwhile, reports said that Ford's global rivals which recently announced plans to sell small cars in India include Honda Motor and Volkswagen AG's Czech unit Skoda Automobilova AS. General Motors began selling a small car in India earlier this year.

Further, Nissan Motor Co has already announced that India’s own Mahindra & Mahindra will likely be its partner for a low-price car project for India.

Ford India, in the meantime, unveiled a diesel variant of Fusion priced at Rs 6.59 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The company has saidthat the diesel engine model of its mid-sized Fusion car is aimed at buyers who prefer cars, which run on diesel. Aimed at urban users, the diesel version is expected to be picked up as the fuel-price equation is in favour of diesel.

Ford India's domestic sales rose 45 per cent to 41,797 units in the financial year ended March 31, 2007. It also exported about 20,000 units, as completely-knocked-down kits, during the same period.

Honda plans small car for India

Small is big, so think the auto majors. As everyone makes a try at the market in this segment, Honda Siel too seems to be thinking on similar lines. The move is said to be prompted by the impressive 25 per cent growth rate in the segment.

A report said that Honda Siel Cars India is planning to enter the small car market in India. The Japanese car maker is studying the segment in India and plans to introduce a car with a sub-1.2-litre engine capacity. The report added that the company is also likely to spring a surprise by unveiling a new model for India altogether.

Honda Siel has said that the vehicle in the pipeline is a premium small car. A time-frame for the launch would be worked out soon. Honda currently sells the Honda City, Civic and the Accord, prime players in the executive sedan, luxury sports and large sedan segments. The car major is already present in the small car segment in Japan and the US. Honda executives said the Indian smal car would not be a variant of any of the existing models, though it could be replicated later in China or even in Europe.

Meanwhile, it is not just Honda who is looking at the small car segment. While Toyota Motor Corp is planning to manufacture small cars for emerging markets, including India, Tata Motors is already working on its Rs 1 lakh small car. Nissan Renault has also unveiling plans for a Rs 1.25-lakh car for the Indian roads, reports pointed out. All said, Maruti remains the largest player in both the overall Indian auto market as well as the small car segment, boasting of a 55 per cent share. Last year, it had sold over 5 lakh small cars out of a total 6.3 lakh sold in the domestic market.

To Chennai with love is BMW mantra

M Karunanidhi must be a happy man. Close on the heels of the mega Renault-Nissan-Mahindra venture setting shop on Tamil Nadu soil, it is now the turn of none other than BMW to roll in.

The car giant has unveiled its assembly plant at Chengalpattu, 40 km south of Chennai. With India promising to offer unique opportunities for growth in the premium automobile segment, the company has set up the plant with a capacity of 1,700 vehicles a year.

The automobile behemoth which has a distribution network of as many as 12 dealers in cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Hyderabad, also has lined up an expansion on that front. Reports quoting sources aid that the dealership network will double by this year end. The idea is to grab all opportunities that arise for BMW’s three automotive brands.The brands being BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the report added.

On the pricing front, BMW officials said that the lowest priced 3- Series vehicle will cost Rs 2.6 million, while the higher range would cost up to Rs 4.2 million.

Significantly, India makes only the seats of the cars, while the remaining parts are imported. As per the new plan, BMW will manufacture the doors of the cars India and it will not export its Indian products.

Chennai is indeed turning hot on the auto front. It is only a matter of time before more Tamil Nadu cities also roll out the red carpet for global majors.

Bajaj Auto car by 2009

You just can’t beat a Bajaj, so said the ad lines years ago. The two wheeler giant has maintained its full allegiance to its ad jingle. Now after making a plash with some of the best bikes that ever came out of Indian manufacturing facilities, Bajaj is all set to roll out a car.

Bajaj Auto is rumoured to be possibly considering this as the company is finally eyeing an entry into the car market. With the Indian middle class now capable of purchasing cars and Bajaj sees a good market there. After being a dominant player in the two and three wheeler market in the country, the company sees an opportunity waiting to succeed in the car mart.

The company might enter the four-wheeler segment within two years, said reports quoting company top brass. Bajaj Auto is said to be on the look out for land in Maharashtra and Uttarakhand.

Recently Bajaj Auto launched a 200cc model of its hugely successful Pulsar. This bike has been launched for the niche market as the company feels that there is a market for high-end bikes in India. The company also has lined up plans to the lift the wraps on another high-end bike called Pulsar 220 in the month of May.

Will the Harley come to India?

If you want to see a Harley Davidson on Indian roads, snip import duties, the government has been told by the US bike maker. With the US government too locking horns with the Union Commerce Ministry on the issue of lobbying for the iconic motor cycle brand, the scene has got even hotter.

According to the bike maker there are import duties of 60 per cent that makes a Harley Davidson expensive in India. This apart, the additional 30 per cent local taxes may double the prices. While the bike maker looks forward to the government cutting import duties to the levels of average industrial tariffs in India, a Harley official said the company does not have definite plans as of now for India. But he added that the company hopes to be in India sometime in the future.

It has been reported that Harley Davidson has been lobbying hard through the US government for duty cuts. However, the Commerce Ministry has ruled out any customs duty concessions The government is adamant that bringing down duties on bikes won’t happen as of now.

While giving a thumbs up to the government move to accept Euro-III emission norms for large-engine motorcycles, the Harley official said that he was are extremely pleased that the Indian government has agreed to harmonize its emission norms with Euro-III standards. Significantly, India, till recently, had not specified emission standards for motorcycles with engine capacity above 500 cubic centimeters. This in turn had ruled out the import of vehicles from Harley Davidson, Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. and Suzuki Motor.

Meanwhile, industry experts feel that despite the high duties, there exists a sizeable market in India for big bikes. If Harley hesitates, there are others who will grab the opportunity. Waiting in the wings are Suzuki with its GSX-R1000 and 749 cc GSX-R750, Yamaha with its 998 cc YZF-R1 and the 600 cc YZF-R6 and Honda with its proposed big bike.

Swift sedan to replace Esteem, launch at Auto Expo 2008

The Swift sedan which will replace the Esteem will make its debut at the Auto Expo 2008. Pictures and price details to follow.

Roll over Esteem, the Swift Sedan is on its way. Maruti Suzuki has apparently decided to bring the curtains down on its hugely successful model Esteem.

Taking its place would be the new Sedan version of its even more successful Swift. According to a report, this would mean that one of Maruti Suzuki’s most successful models is on its way to be phased out. In fact it is already being said that the company has halted production of the car.

The Esteem was unveiled during the 1990s as a spruced-up version of the Maruti 1000. It had then competed for market share with Hindustan Motor's Contessa Classic. The decision to stop its production comes after almost 14 years, though it had been a sought after car in the country. It may be noted that the car had sold 1000 units in November 2007. The report added that the car was actually called the Swift in some of its foreign markets. This includes the US too, it added.

As Maruti Suzuki gets set to roll out the new Swift sedan most probably by March 2008, the report added that the car would be powered by a 1.3 litre petrol engine akin to what the Esteem had. The auto maker also plans to roll out a diesel version by the end of 2008.

Meanwhile, the company is sad to be investing more money into its Manesar assembly line in a bid to bridge the demand supply gap of diesel cars. The auto maker is already witnessing huge demand for its Swift diesel vehicle, and has realized that the demand is more that what it can currently supply. The production capacity would go up to around three lakh engines per annum, compared with the current one lakh engines per annum.

GM Chevrolet Captiva SUV launched, priced at Rs 17.74 lakh

General Motors launched its premium sport utility vehicle, the new Chevrolet Captiva, for the Indian market 2008 Auto Expo.

The Captiva, which has been a huge hit in global markets, was well received here as well. It is expected that the combination of distinctive styling, refinement, safety features, comfort and versatility and powerful yet frugal diesel powertrain, will make the Captiva a sought after vehicle in the Indian market place too.

The SUV comes with aggressive clear-lens projection headlamps and wide tyres mounted on alloy wheels. A review report said that the sharp feature line across the length of the Captiva adds to the masculinity of its stance, while subtle chrome highlights and a bold coupe-style rear window treatment add feline grace to the overall visual package.

A large tailgate and substantial vertical tail lamps with indicators and reversing lamps contained in circular elements add to the beauty of the rear. The Captiva is powered by a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder 16-valve diesel engine. The common-rail direct injection system and a variable geometry turbo (VGT) system gives the engine power to produce 150 PS of peak power at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. The car comes with a five-speed all-synchromesh manual gearbox.

Built to accommodate at least 7 people comfortably, the SUV maximizes space well. It brings with it features such as a remote-operated tailgate glass and also features three 12-volt power outlets that are accessible to all passengers. Pre-fitted with driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, and load limiters, safety features have been well thought of and executed.

Besides these safety aspects, the SUV comes with a four-channel ABS with brake assist-equipped discs which intelligently assists with pedal pressure when it detects an emergency braking situation.

Company officials say that the Captiva brings about an economical and power-packed diesel performance combined with spacious luxury and fantastic road presence.

Skoda Fabia: The smart small car

The much-awaited Skoda Fabia was launched in India on Wednesday at the Auto Expo. With a starting price of Rs 4.99 lakh which goes up to Rs 7.88 lakh for the premium variants, the Skoda Fabia has everything for the Indian car buyer enamoured by the Skoda brand but found the Octavia out of reach.

Skoda currently has three models in its portfolio, all of them in the sedan version. The Octavia, Laura and Superb have been the flagships of Skoda in India for a long time, which helped the Czech carmaker, a subsidiary of Volkswagen, build a formidable brand name in India. With the Fabia, Skoda makes its tentative footsteps into the hot small car market in India, which is growing at a tremendous pace.

The interiors in the Skoda Fabia are the best in class. The Fabia sports dual tone dashboard and multi textured fabric on seats and trim. The instrument cluster is modern, displaying exotic info like outside temperature, average speed, average fuel consumption and instantaneous fuel consumption. There is one-touch locking and unlocking of all doors from the driver's side.

The exterior rear view mirrors are stylish and have a heating function to top it. This, says Skoda, helps the Fabia driver get a better view during monsoons, bad weather etc. The mirrors are power-adjustable too.

As part of the music system comes an auxiliary audio output, which can be used to plug in your iPod. The electric sunroof has both slide and tilt functions. AC vents are present on both front and rear, with climatic temperature control.

On of the innovative additions in the Skoda Fabia is a reverse parking sensor, an added convenience which even many big size cars in India do not have. Parktronic gives an audio visual warning when the car reverses towards an obstacle.

The Skoda Fabia comes with a large number of small storage spaces, unseen in any other car. There is a twin storage illuminated compartment, besides thoughtfully created spaces under the armrest, below the roof and all around the doors. Its seems one will never run short of space to store maps, bottles, magazines and other knick knacks in a Fabia. To add to the multiple storage spaces, the Skoda Fabia also comes with a large 300 litre boot.

Skoda has also incorporated well-intentioned additions like height adjustable front driver and passenger seats, adjustable steering, anti-glare interior rear view mirror and the like.

To tackle the tough and unforgiving Indian roads, the Skoda Fabia has an underbody protection to save the vital parts. The car has anti-lock braking system (ABS) and dual SRS airbags in the front. Many of these features are still to make their way into many of the upmarket C segment cars in India.

The front grille of the Fabia is distinctly Skoda, with vertical fins and the prominent Skoda logo. Projector headlamps make the front look different from the earlier Fabia, which reminded an Octavia from the front. Front and rear lamps come in the higher variants. There is also a rear windscreen wiper and washer.