Vicky.in Blog

Volkswagen, Europe’s leading car manufacturer, today announced the delivery of the 1st Tiguan in the country. The recently launched Tiguan was delivered to Mr. Sundaresan Mallikarjun Duggu at the Volkswagen Hyderabad dealership. The Tiguan was launched in India on 24th May, 2017 and has received a great response since its launch.

Volkswagen has forayed into the premium segment with the Tiguan, powered with an efficient 2.0L TDI engine mated to a supple 7 speed automatic-DSG gearbox, the Tiguan delivers peak power of 143 PS/105 kW and 340Nm of torque ranging from 1750-2750rpm with superior fuel efficiency of 17.06kmpl (ARAI tested).

The Tiguan is packed with several class leading premium lifestyle features like Pedestrian Safety (Active Hood), 6 Airbags, Hill Start Assist, Auto Hold, Self-sealing tyres, ‘Vienna’ leather seats, Cruise Control, AppConnect, Rain and Light sensor, LED Headlamps with DRLs, LED tail-lamps, Easy open boot, Electrically foldable ORVM, LED illuminated Panoramic Sunroof and Keyless Entry & Go among others.

The Tiguan makes its debut in India with the Volkswagen 4MOTION intelligent AWD system and is based on the modern MQB (Modular Transverse Matrix) platform. Starting at Rs.27.68 Lacs (ex-showroom, Mumbai), the Tiguan is available across all Volkswagen dealerships in India, in two trims Comfortline and Highline.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) celebrates the next important milestone in its export business. Less than four years after the kick-off, the 10,000th exports vehicle rolled onto the ship at Kamarajar Port near Chennai. The milestone vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz 40-ton heavy- duty tractor for a customer in Indonesia, is part of a batch of about 250 trucks on the way to various markets in South-East Asia.

Mr. Marc Llistosella, President and CEO of MFTBC and Head of Daimler Trucks Asia: “10,000 trucks exported are only a start. We are leveraging additional potentials in growth markets with reliable, efficient high-quality trucks built at our Indian manufacturing plant. There will be continuous significant growth in this business for our FUSO and Mercedes-Benz brands.”

DICV’s export product range, manufactured on the same production lines as its domestic BharatBenz portfolio according to global Daimler standards, features medium-duty (9-16 tonnes) and heavy-duty (16-49 tonnes) trucks. Developed and rigorously tested to meet the diverse requirements of the target markets in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, they are opening additional growth opportunities for Daimler Trucks – the world’s leading truck manufacturer with a global reach.

Mr. Erich Nesselhauf, Managing Director and CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles said: “Our exports business has been developing extremely well. Since the launch in 2013, we have doubled our figures each year, and we aim for further significant growth as we will expand to serve more than 40 markets on three continents by the end of the year.”

With regard to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Mr. Nesselhauf added: “Make in India works really well for manufacturers like us who can offer modern products and are able to meet international norms and customer expectations.”

TVS Motor Company has introduced the revolutionary ‘Sync Brake System’ (SBS) technology to assist safe riding on Indian roads.

The technology, first introduced in the TVS WEGO relies on reactive relay to subtly apply co-brakes in quick succession. This ensures smooth transition and even distribution of deceleration, thus offering a heightened braking control. Thus it enhances the life of tyres and brake liners.

SBS technology is available across all variants of TVS WEGO and TVS Jupiter.

Aprilia has introduced the Shiver 900 and Dorsoduro 900, adding a new racing dimension to India’s two-wheeler industry. These superbikes will be available through Piaggio Group’s Motoplexes in Pune, Chennai, Kochi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad and will add to Aprilia’s existing superbikes portfolio of Tuono and RSV4. The bikes are now available with special introductory pricing on limited units until June 30^th 2017 to encourage racing enthusiasts in the country.   

Equipped with a new 900 V-twin engine, the Aprilia Shiver projects maximum torque at any rpm delivering more power and adding to the characteristics without taking away the ease and comfort of riding. The design aesthetics of the bike have been revamped to include side covers on the fuel tank, side panels, tail fairing and front mudguard which highlights its sporty character. The mixed steel trellis and aluminium plates frame creates an extremely compact bike and enhances the riding experience of the discerning bikers. The refined mechanics and excellent chassis structure are set to make these bikes the best in class.

The Shiver has an ultra-modern instrument cluster which comprises of a TFT technology display with a large 4.3” screen. It has the ability to adapt the background and font colours based on the conditions detected by the light sensor. Smartphones can also be connected through the AMP kit and all data related to the calls and audio files can be accessed.

For the first time, the Aprilia Shiver has an advanced traction control system, together with an upgraded version of the ride-by-wire technology which is an evolved ride-by-wire electronic accelerator system, now completely built into the throttle grip. Thereby, making the system lighter and efficient. Aprilia Shiver is the first street bike in the world to be fitted with the ride-by-wire technology since its introduction in 2007. The ride-by-wire technology has come from the Aprilia MotoGP bike and has been adapted by all manufacturers world over.

Like the Shiver, the Aprilia Dorsoduro is also equipped with the ride by wire electronic accelerator system, which enables riders to change the engine mapping, thereby creating a change in the amount of power utilized. The Sport setting provides an immediate and aggressive throttle; the Touring is ideal for touring and daily use, providing a smoother response. The Rain map is ideal for difficult weather conditions and slippery road surfaces.

The Dorsoduro is agile with advanced technical solutions drawn from the characteristics of a sports bike as well as a motard. Reflecting the racing heritage of the brand and derived from the sporting world, the bike has long and flat saddle capable of ensuring the most effective riding position at all times. The chassis of the Dorsoduro creates efficiency, balance and precision for extreme riding at the same time providing the ease for daily use.

The combination of the traction control system along with the continental two channel ABS system adds to the sporty feel of the bike. The bike is also equipped with a new coloured TFT digital instrumentation which is similar to the one on Aprilia Shiver. The Dorsoduro, like all other Aprilia motorcycles, also has the multimedia platform which enables riders to share and manage all their trip information, interface with handlebar controls. Using this platform, riders can also receive indications on consumption, routes and Aprilia service centre locations.

In addition, both the bikes are also equipped with a new, 540 grams lighter Kayaba front fork and lighter three-spoked rims.

“It is our constant effort at Piaggio Group to make the Aprilia brand more accessible to the patrons in the country, with these superbikes-  the Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro- we plan to appeal to the Aprilia enthusiast.” Said Mr. Stefano Pelle, CEO and Managing Director, Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited (India) on the launch of the superbikes. He further added, “These superbikes reflect the racing heritage of the brand and the riding experience is unmatched by any other product in the similar category.”

Pricing Details:

Location	Model	Standard Price	Introductory Price
Pune	Aprilia Shiver 900	13,32,930	11,99,000
	Aprilia Dorsoduro 900	13,83,652	12,50,000
Hyderabad, Bangalore,  Cochin, Chennai	Aprilia Shiver 900	13,71,568	12,29,000
	Aprilia Dorsoduro 900	14,23,759	12,78,000

In the wake of steaming competition in the Rs 20-30 lakh SUV bracket, Mitsubishi has launched a special variant of the Pajero Sport. The Select Plus is a souped-up version of the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport with a few extra features.

The Select Plus variant is priced at Rs 28.9 lakh for the automatic and Rs 29.3 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) for the manual transmission. That’s a jump of Rs 1.2 lakh over the regular trims.

This special edition brings along a two-tone paint job, which is available in black, white, silver and red shades. Improving cosmetic elements of the Select Plus are features like chrome door handles, illuminated scuff plates, daytime running lights, flared wheel arch claddings, black radiator grille and a front crash guard. While the chrome handles look tachy, the addition of black grille and wheel cladding does give it a strong presence and will appeal to most SUV buyers.

The functional extras of the Pajero Sport Select Plus include a cooler for chilling cold drinks, HID headlamps, DVD player for rear seat entertainment, power-folding outside mirrors and cruise control. Standard features of the Pajero Sport include dual-zone climate control with a separate compressor unit for rear air conditioner, touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and reversing camera.

Rest of the elements of the Pajero Sport remain unchanged, and it continues to carry the 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which is available with both a 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual transmission. The automatic is available with front-wheel drive only while the manual is exclusively available with four-wheel drive. Power output stands at 178PS at 4000rpm regardless of what transmission you choose. The torque rating of the automatic variant stands at 350Nm between 1800-3500rpm. Same for the manual transmission with four-wheel drive model is 400Nm from 2000rpm to 2500rpm.

The Pajero Sport Select Plus measures 4695mm long, 1815mm wide and 1840mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2800mm. Its length is shy of the Ford Endeavour as well as the Toyota Fortuner, but the wheelbase sits bang in the middle of the two with 50mm of breathing room on either side. But, just like the other two, it has enough space for seven passengers.

General Motors India announced today that it will focus on its growing vehicle export manufacturing operations and cease sales in the domestic market by the end of 2017.

The decision, which follows a comprehensive review of future product plans for GM India, is part of a series of actions taken by General Motors to address the performance of its operations worldwide. Through the review, which began in June 2016, the company determined its greatest opportunity in India to drive shareholder return rests on focusing on exports from India.

Stefan Jacoby, GM executive vice president and president of GM International, said, “We explored many options, but determined the increased investment originally planned for India would not deliver the returns of other significant global opportunities. It would also not help us achieve a leadership position or compelling, long-term profitability in the domestic market. Difficult as it has been to reach this decision, it is the right outcome to support our global strategy and deliver appropriate returns for our shareholders.”

This announcement is consistent with GM’s global disciplined allocation of capital and investment in its business around the world designed to generate stronger returns and drive shareholder value.

“Our decision in India is an important milestone in strengthening the performance of our GM International operations and establishing GM as a more focused and disciplined company,” said Jacoby.

As GM moved to consolidate Indian manufacturing at its Talegaon Assembly Plant, the company ceased manufacturing at its Halol Assembly Plant on April 28, 2017. Negotiations continue on the asset sale at Halol.

Kaher Kazem, GM India president and managing director, said the focus for the GM India manufacturing base at Talegaon will be export markets, upcoming export vehicle launches and exploring longer-term strategic options.

“GM India’s export business has tripled over the past year,” Kazem said. “Exports will remain our focus going forward as we continue to leverage India’s strong supply base. We recently launched the new Chevrolet Beat hatchback for export to Mexico and Central and South American markets and will launch the Chevrolet Beat sedan later this year for those markets.

“We will support our affected customers, employees, dealers and suppliers,” Kazem said. “Chevrolet owners can be assured that we will continue to honor all warranties and provide comprehensive aftersales support.”

GM India informed employees of the decision today.

The company will work closely with affected customers and dealers on a transition plan. The customer support center will remain open and all warranties and service agreements, as well as ongoing service and parts requirements for all vehicles, will continue to be honored. Our customers can call 1-800-3000-8080, email us at gmi.cac@gm.com or visit chevrolet.co.in.

The GM Technical Centre-India (GMTC-I) in Bengaluru performs global work for GM. This work is not impacted by this announcement.

MAN Trucks India, 100% subsidiary of MAN Truck & Bus AG, Germany, rolled out the New CLA EVO range. The initial trucks were delivered to customers recently at an event at the company’s facility at Pithampur, Indore. In the process, MAN Trucks also crossed an important milestone in its India journey – over 25,000 vehicles sold in India as well as in export markets. The new range was unveiled at the BAUMA CONEXPO INDIA in December 2016.

The market introduction of the new range also coincides with the BSIV emission norms that came into effect on 1st April, 2017. The series includes tippers, rigids and tractors, besides special application trucks that address diverse customer requirements. These are designed to operate in tough operating conditions with high performance and efficiency levels.

Mr. Joerg Mommertz, Chairman and Managing Director, MAN Trucks India said, “At MAN, it is our endeavour to provide best-in-class solutions for the transport and infrastructure sectors. We have always listened to our customers to understand their changing requirements. The new CLA EVO range is a good example of our ability to develop solutions in India, for India. MAN trucks are seen as a reference for strong performance over long duty cycles. Going forward, we will work towards bringing newer solutions to raise the bar for our customers.“

With new benchmarks, the CLA EVO series offers a combination of power, fuel efficiency, world class performance and safety. The trucks are powered by the proven MAN D-0836 common rail engine that delivers 250HP and 300HP based on the application. At the same time it complies with the BSIV emission norms.

Coupled with a well configured driveline, the engine delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency. Extensively tested to global standards and equipped with strong aggregates and a robust chassis frame and suspension, the CLA EVO range meets the highest operating standards under extreme conditions.

“With the implementation of GST, demand for haulage trucks is expected to rise. The MAN long haul trucks can operate up to 20 hours duty cycles, which will benefit operators in terms of faster turnaround. The engines have been been enhanced to deliver more power, while being fuel efficient. Besides the product range, we are also expanding our after sales service network in order to cater to requirements across all key routes and locations,“ Mr. Mommertz added.

Presenting the New MAN CLA EVO range

The New CLA EVO series comprises tippers, long haul and special application trucks ranging from 16T to 49T.

The trucks are powered by the proven MAN D-0836, turbo charged, inter-cooled engine, that are rated for 250HP and 300HP. Mated with 6- and 9-speed gearboxes, the trucks are adapted for specific operational purposes. The electronically controlled Common Rail system makes the engine reliable and fuel efficient than before, besides being environment friendly.

The crawler gear in long haul trucks helps the engine run within the optimal rpm range, thereby reducing fuel consumption.Strong rigid front axle, hypoid rear axles provide superior traction&gradeability, and unmatched reliability.

The tippers feature MAN‘s planetary rear axle with hub reduction, which provides high ground clearance and has proven its effectiveness in varying conditions. The inter axle and differential lock imparts superior traction.

The driver environment offers best-in-class ergonomics, visibility and control. The objective is to provide drivers high levels of comfort for significantly reduced fatigue and enhanced safety. The aerodynamic cabin with heat and sound dampeners, and an optional AC helps maximise man and machine performance and productivity. The driver cabs also offer sleeper berths in the long haul trucks.

MAN Aftersales and Service

MAN Trucks India offers service and support to ensure maximum uptime, all the time. MAN Services offers include warranty schemes, annual maintenance contracts, on-site support and 24×7 helpline service.

MAN Services also offer new solutions like lubricants that can improve the engine performance. Along with MAN genuine parts, always recommended to operators, the vehicle life cycle gets a boost – whether it is in engine hours for tippers or kilometres clocked for long haul trucks.

Call of the wild is out, and it’s hard to ignore. Bringing excitement closer to adventure motorcycling enthusiasts, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. today announced commencement of bookings for the all new Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin motorcycle in India. Africa Twin, the flagship adventure-tourer motorcycle from Honda’s global line-up is the first 1000cc ‘Make in India’ model by Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India.

The bookings are open for first 50 customers only. Lucky customers will get a chance to attend the grand out-door ‘True Adventure’ Africa Twin India launch event. For booking enquiries, customers can contact or visit Honda’s exclusive sales & service Wing World outlets located across 22 cities in India. Customers can also log on to Honda2WheelersIndia.com for more details.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Senior Vice President – Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Africa Twin- it’s name is inseparable from the spirit of Dakar Rally- world’s toughest rally raids. Down to its roots, when the going gets tough, Africa Twin gets going. There is nothing to hold back an enthusiast on the Africa Twin, as it’s the most reliable, versatile and proven adventure touring motorcycle. Real adventure is awaiting the lucky customers amongst the first 50 bookings of the legendary Africa Twin in India.”

Unique Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) technology by Honda. A world first in motorcycles

The long road to adventure is varied and the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) machine gives you a choice of Manual and Automatic gear shifting to suit tarmac, dirt tracks and steep mountain passes. Experience a more enjoyable ride by focusing on the sensations of accelerating, turning, and braking your motorcycle. Control your bike to your heart’s content. DCT – A technology that brings the fundamentals of motorcycles – the joy of riding and control – to a whole new level. It also features new off-road functionality, switchable rear ABS and HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control).

A True companion ‘on & off-road’

The adventure begins, where the road ends. Inheriting the “go anywhere” spirit of its celebrated predecessors, the CRF1000L Africa Twin packs an innovative, compact and powerful parallel twin-cylinder engine (makes 65Kw peak power @ 7,500rpm, and 92Nm torque @ 6,000rpm) into a lightweight, agile chassis ready for true adventure both on and off road, whether crossing continents or commuting. The inverted cartridge type fully adjustable front forks come with a 230mm stroke- the longest in its class- with a good range of rebound and compression settings. With a class leading 250mm ground clearance, riding this bike off-road is a glide. The Dual LED head lights- when lit, evoke memories of those Dakar winning machines.

Attractively priced at Rs. 12.90 lacs (ex-showroom New Delhi) the DCT Africa Twin will be available in New Victory Red color.

Steelbird helmets are famous for its finish and inventive features and “Hi-GN” helmets truly stands to the brand image as it steps forward to meet the cleanliness needs of the riders! High on hygiene factor, effective performance and attention to details Steelbird –“Hi-GN” is a perfect mix of innovative features and safety standards.

Keeping in mind the riders need for safety without compromising on hygiene, Hi-GN helmets is made of performance fabric which keeps the rider fresh in summers and during long rides. Adding on to the sanitation features, it is anti-allergic, anti-bacteria, anti odour and tested against antimicrobial activity of textile standard which Steelbird strictly adheres to. It also comes with washable & removable interior.

Hi-GN utilizes the bacterio static coating on the inner fabric of the helmet hence making the helmet less irritant when it comes in contact with the skin. It is also anti bacteria as the bacterio static coating inhibits the growth of bacteria taking hygiene factor to the hilt. With this technology riders no longer have to worry about the infection in the scalp.

Another USP of this fabric is that the technology is ever lasting. It will never wash out because the feature is actually embedded in the fibres of the fabric itself.

Commenting on the new helmet Brand Steelbird Hi-GN Mr. Shailendra Jain Global Group Head – Sales & Marketing, Steelbird Helmets said “We often see young riders facing hair loss problem especially due to helmets. Sweating, dirt, food particles, multiple people sharing the same helmets and airborne bacteria getting rubbed in the helmet padding and breeding and multiplying in the warm environment is what affects the scalp health and in turn leads to hair loss. Our Hi-GN Steelbird helmets have been specially designed to do away with the hygiene related problem on the go. A lot of R&D has been done to combat the problem of the riders facing scalp infection owing to helmets. This model will surely bridge the gap considering the hygiene features allowing the riders to enjoy the ride with maximum comfort.”

Hi-GN helmets are available at all Steelbird outlets and online on steelbirdhelmet.com. Pockets friendly, packed with technology, these helmets are Riders’ best friend and great for daily use and adventure rides!

Hi-GN helmets offers a host of options for the riders to choose from which further adds to the wow factor.

The helmets are available in four different categories namely Dashing (Non- Painted) Rs. 1329/, Glossy (Painted) Rs. 1489/, Hunk (With Decals) Rs. 1739/ and Attis (With Decals) Rs. 1669/-

Volvo CE is launching its newest paver into India, the mid-sized P6820C ABG. The unit offers a winning combination of power, production capacity, and precision for excellent paving quality, with perfectly smooth mats.

The new Volvo P6820C tracked paver – equipped for high performance – is an all-around paving solution. Powered by Volvo’s D6E COM IIIA/EPA Tier 3 engine, the paver is considerably more powerful than its predecessor, while providing lower fuel consumption and less noise. As the Indian government continues to develop its road building program, contractors will find Volvo’s new paver an ideal solution to help meet increasingly ambitious construction schedules.

Dimitrov Krishnan, vice president and head of Volvo CE India, said infrastructure development remains a key focus in the country and highlighted increasing market demand for mid-sized road paving equipment that does not compromise on quality.

“We are seeing more interest in equipment at the lower end of the scale as construction of smaller roads in more rural areas gathers pace. This reflects a maturing of the road network in India with many major routes now well into development, requiring work on the byways which will feed the arterial roads,” he said. “The new mid-sized P6820C perfectly addresses this issue, offering an ideal combination of productivity and flexibility.”

The P6820C is fitted with an emission-compliant engine. Fuel consumption is further reduced when the operator uses smart power mode, which lowers engine RPM to match power and demand — resulting in fuel savings of up to 30%. Reduced noise levels can also be attributed to sound lowering components and a robust frame. These features combined with smart power can dramatically decrease noise levels, compared with the competition.