Tata Motors sell 87,566 units in July 2013 globally

 Tata Motors Group sells 87,566 units in July this year including Jaguar Land Rover, while the cumulative sales for the fiscal stood at 335,067 vehicles. According to a company statement, the global sales for commercial vehicles that includes Tata, Tata Daewoo and Tata Hispano Carrocera range stood at 40,882 units, while the cumulative CV sales was pegged at 161,088 units.

The global sales of Tata passenger vehicles in July 2013 logged 35,162 vehicles. Jaguar posted a sales of 7,174 units during the month under review, while the cumulative sales stood at 25,751 vehicles. The sales of Land Rover for July this year was 27,988 units and the cumulative sales stood at 100,031 units. The cumulative sales for Jaguar Land Rover for the fiscal stood at 125,782 vehicles, noted the statement.

Mahindra to set up vehicle assembly plant in Ghana

Mahindra & Mahindra, leading sports utility vehicles manufacturer in India, driving on the back of the sales of 3,500 SUVs and pick-up vehicles in the last seven years had decided to establish an assembly unit and service centre on a 9.5 acre land at Accra, the capital city of Ghana, along with its alliance partner, according to an IANS report,

'The decision to set up a plant in Ghana was trigerred by the need to look into the humungous investment potentials and service the needs of the vehicle market in the West African region', Thomas Svanikier, Executive Chairman of Svani Motors, the vehicle's sole distributor in Ghana, was quoted as saying by the report.
'The Automobile Plaza would explore the potential of the fast expanding local automobile market and offer quality and affordable vehicles and services to meet increasing market demand in Ghana and other neighbouring countries,"' the official pointed out.
Stating that in excess of 3,500 Mahindra vehicles had been sold over the past seven years to state institutions, private organisations, industries, UN agencies and individuals in Ghana, Svanikier went on to add that Mahindra, which controlled 20 percent of the imported vehicle market in the country, was currently making waves with the latest generation of Mahindra vehicles - the Mahindra XUV 500, the Mahindra Genio and the Mahindra Xylo.
Mahindra's senior general manager for the African region, Sanjay Jadhav, was quoted as saying by the report: "We are a well-recognised brand in Ghana and have a strong presence in the institutional segment with our pick-up and SUV range. The introduction of the new range of Mahindra vehicles in the country was part of the efforts to improve the comfort levels of customers. This is also in line with the Mahindra brand philosophy of Rise, which includes Driving Positive Change in the Market with Alternate Thinking. Our aim is to offer mobility solutions to customers in Ghana that meet their needs". As part of Svani's efforts to make it easy for more people to afford vehicles, the firm has joined with local financial institution Fidelity Bank to provide financial assistance to customers through hire-purchase and lease schemes.

Tata Motors celebrates Light & Intermediate Commercial Vehicle Trucks and Buses 'Freedom Campaign' on occasion of Independence Day

Tata Motors today announced a host of new service offerings for its Light and Intermediate commercial vehicles and bus range to celebrate a special 'Freedom campaign' on occasion of the Indian Independence Day. These include three Year or 300,000 kilometers warranty,  24x7 Tata Alert service, attractive Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) rates, increase in engine oil drain interval and Triple Benefit Insurance, a press note issued by the company said.

Commenting on the introduction of the 'Freedom Campaign', R Ramakrishnan, Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors, said: “Tata Motors’ commercial vehicles have been an integral part in  the nation’s economic growth wherein the Intermediate and Light Commercial Vehicle Range of Trucks and Buses have played a pivotal role – be it inter and intra-city goods transport, specific applications or passenger transport. Our customer-centric and innovative offerings promise high up-time and low maintenance, and in these challenging economic circumstances, help enhance the business proposition for the vehicle owners so that they may run their businesses with “Freedom from all worries” about their Tata vehicles in the fleet". 

Key elements of these offerings include three year or 300,000 kilometers warranty – the entire MCV Range of buses along with the ICV Trucks range will now be with enhanced warranty, lower ownership costs for its 7T, 9T and 11T Trucks and MCV buses, due to the engine oil interval doubled to 40,000 kms from the existing 20,000 kms. Besides that, other offers include triple benefit assurance, an industry first that offers customers zero depreciation insurance, coverage of loss of income and entitlement to reimbursement of full price the vehicle at the current price, in case of total loss, multi-tiered AMC rates that could offer greater flexibility and choice to the customers to cater to their varying needs and to keep their costs in check and 24x7 Tata Alert service for its ICV trucks, that ensures that a vehicle is put back on the road within 48 hours from the time restoration work begins. In case of major repairs and the vehicle carrying perishable goods, ‘Tata Alert’ will provide load transfer assistance. Through ‘Tata Alert’, drivers will receive on-site breakdown assistance within four hours of dialing a toll-free helpline number (1800-209-7979). By virtue of this campaign, Tata Motors brings industry-leading value-added service offerings, and new product improvements for enhanced product ownership experience to celebrate its customer’s “Freedom of Choice” and the company’s promise to give them 'Freedom from Worries'.
Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company, with consolidated revenues of Rs. 1,88,818 crores ($ 34.7 billion) in 2012-13. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand, Spain, South Africa and Indonesia. Among them is Jaguar Land Rover, the business comprising the two iconic British brands. It also has an industrial joint venture with Fiat in India.  With over 7.5 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top in passenger vehicles. It is also the world's fourth largest truck and bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, CIS and Russia.

Hero Cycles open All-Aluminium cycle manufacturing plant in Ghaziabad

Hero Cycles Ltd, the world's largest manufacturer of bicycles yesterday inaugurated its new All Aluminium Cycle plant at its existing facility in Ghaziabad, ushering in a new era for cycling industry in India.

With this the company will indigenise its production of aluminium cycles in India by manufacturing its own aluminium frames that make cycles lighter and more efficient, a company statement said.

New plant

 
The new manufacturing plant brings with it a historic change in Hero's bicycle manufacturing capacity and the facility is equipped to produce 100,000 bicycles annually. What is more, it would further allow the cycle manufacturer to boost its indigenous production of high end bicycles and shift gears in its production technology, noted the statement.

Inaugurating the state-of-the-art, ultra modern facility, company Co-Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj Munjal said: “We feel elated to witness a major shift as far as our production technology is concerned. This new facility will be producing Aluminium bicycles, giving our products a new dimension and an edge over our competitors. We will be able to serve our customers more efficiently and effectively keeping our past impeccable record as a customer-friendly company, intact". So far, Hero Cycles used to import aluminium frames for production of its high end bicycles. The production will now be indegenised and cut costs. Hero Cycles has two high end brands in Urban Trail and Sprint.

Indegenised production

“Hero Cycles Ltd will bring greater technological advancement  in its production at every level in tune with our past record of being a market leader, not just in terms of sales but also in terms of innovation. Our plans to go global and make a foothold in Africa, parts of Europe and South-east Asia will get a major impetus with the advent of this hi-tech unit and our renewed vision to serve our customers in the best way possible", the official pointed out.

Ambitious growth

Though, in the past, few more players have manufactured Aluminium cycles, but not at this comprehensive level. Hero Motors will be the first Indian company to have started this major shift. The management which has set up an ambitious target of 15 percent growth rate for this year, is working on a gamut of ideas including expansion, bringing higher technology and innovation in production and targeting high-end customers.

High-end segment

The company also plans to aggressively target the high-end segment in the future. With its all aluminium bike range ‘Octane’, Hero Cycles plans to reach out to those who have a certain passion for adventure and are not ready to compromise with quality.

Localisation

Hero Motors  is also contemplating on localising the production of key components like internal gear hubs, electric drive units and front forks that are currently being imported for manufacturing purposes. This would be done through strategic tie ups. The company had recently laid the foundation of a huge production unit in Bihar’s Bihta Industrial and Logistics Park, near Patna with a mammoth one million production capacity.

It was a major indicator of the Hero Cycles Ltd’s aggressive expansion plans. The plant is expected to go on stream next year. By the same year, another manufacturing plant is set to become operational in Mangli in Punjab.

Mahindra to demerge truck and bus division into a new entity, M&M Limited

Homegrown auto major, Mahindra & Mahindra Limite had reaffirmed its commitment to its truck and bus division, renaming the erstwhile Mahindra Navistar Automotive Ltd as Mahindra Trucks and Buses Ltd (MTBL), which is a wholly owned subsidiary and part of the $16.2 billion Mahindra Group. Subject to regulatory approvals, the company also intends to demerge its trucks and buses operations from MTBL into Mahindra & Mahindra to derive greater synergies. What is more, the auto maker also announced plans to invest Rs 200 crore to further strengthen its existing product line up and start exploratory work for new product lines that could lead to further capital infusion of over Rs 300 crore in due course, a company statement said.

Mahindra Trucks and Buses Ltd. has also announced new branding for its heavy commercial vehicle range. The multi-axle trucks will now be called Mahindra TRUXO 25 and TRUXO 31; Tractor Trailers will be called Mahindra TRACO 35 and TRACO 40; and the tippers will be called Mahindra TORRO 25 and TORRO 31.

Speaking on this new development, Dr Pawan Goenka - President Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd, said: “We are fully committed to our commercial vehicles business and intend to focus on running the LCV, Truck and Bus business as a separate division post the proposed demerger, with the objective of growing our presence in the Indian commercial vehicle industry. We plan to invest significant resources over the next few years which will help us strengthen our existing product range and refurbish the current LCV range. Exploratory work has also begun for the introduction of new products that will help address the ICV and MCV segments in the 7.5 to 16 ton GVW category”.

Nalin Mehta, Managing Director and CEO, Mahindra Trucks and Buses Limited, said: “The new nomenclature and rebranding demonstrates our long term commitment to the commercial vehicle business which has the full support of the Mahindra Group. While our name has changed, what remains unchanged is our determination to deliver on our customer’s evolving needs. With a powerful range of products including HCVs, LCVs and buses, and a continued focus on breakthrough innovations we will continue to deliver market-leading performance and enhanced products and services for the Indian transport industry”.

Today, with over 100,000 LCV trucks and buses and more than 8,000 HCV trucks on Indian roads, Mahindra services them with a 24x7 service network of more than 1,591 touch points that includes 57, 3S dealerships, 271 authorized service points drawn from other dealers within Mahindra's Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors network and nearly 1,263 roadside assistance points strategically located on important trucking routes. This network will be further expanded by leveraging synergies following the demerger of operations.

Pioneering initiatives

In tune with its commitment towards the business and customers, Mahindra Trucks and Buses has launched several pioneering initiatives such as: the five years or 500,000 kilometers Warranty, which is transferrable and an industry first. For tippers, the company has launched on-site warranty and has also rolled out an attractive AMC package. Furthermore, the auto maker also Offers such as up to 100 percent finance on Chassis and up to five year loan tenure.
Mahindra Trucks and Buses is a wholly owned subsidiary and part of the $ 16.2 billion Mahindra Group and provides an entire line of integrated trucking solutions. It comes with first in Industry five years or 500,000 kilometers transferable Warranty and a most cost effective AMC, with over 1591 service points, including 57 3S dealerships, 271 Authorised Service Points drawn from other dealers of Mahindra Automotive and Farm sectors. The company also has India’s first multi-lingual helpline, which is manned by technical experts to provide instant support along with the NOW mobile service vans and workshops.
The Mahindra Group focuses on enabling people to rise through solutions that power mobility, drive rural prosperity, enhance urban lifestyles and increase business efficiency. A $ 16.2 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India, Mahindra employs more than 155,000 people in over 100 countries. Mahindra operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, after-market, information technology and vacation ownership. In addition, Mahindra enjoys a strong presence in the agribusiness, aerospace, components, consulting services, defence, energy, financial services, industrial equipment, logistics, real estate, retail, steel, commercial vehicles and two wheeler industries. In 2012, Mahindra featured on the Forbes Global 2000 list, a listing of the biggest and most powerful listed companies in the world. In 2013, the Mahindra Group received the Financial Times ‘Boldness in Business’ Award in the ‘Emerging Markets’  category.

Jaguar Land Rover sells 31,611 vehicles in July 2013 up 21 percent

The British marquee auto maker Jaguar Land Rover, leading manufacturer of premium cars in the UK and part of the Tata Group has sold 31,611 vehicles in July 2013, its best ever July performance, registering an increase of 21 percent in contrast with the year ago period.


According to a company statement, during the first seven months of the year, JLR sold 241,801 cars, up 15 percent. July sales were strong for Jaguar Land Rover in Asia Pacific, which showed an upward tick of 43 percent, the China Region, also showing an upward spiral of 36 percent, while North America posting a surge of 31 percent, the UK up eight percent and other overseas markets up 29 percent.

Europe sales

Sales in Europe were flat. For the first seven months of the year sales were up in all major regions with Asia Pacific up 29 percent, the China Region up 18 percent, North America and the UK both up 15 percent Europe up five percent and other overseas markets up 20 percent.


Commenting on the July performance Phil Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group Sales Operations Director said: “This has been another record month for Jaguar Land Rover driven by particularly strong performances in the US, China and Asia Pacific. Jaguar has delivered a very strong performance with solid growth in China and North America thanks to the refreshed XJ and XF models. Land Rover has again seen record sales this month with continued strong global demand for the new and refreshed model line-up".
Jaguar
In July, Jaguar sold 6,157 vehicles up 65 percent reflecting continued strong demand for all XF derivatives and the introduction of the F-TYPE. XJ also performed well in the month up 52 percent following a solid performance in both the US and China. Jaguar demonstrated growth in all of the major regions: the China Region up 221 percent, North America up 63 percent, Asia Pacific up 32 percent, the UK up 31 percent, Europe up 28 percent and other overseas markets up 64 percent. Calendar year to date, Jaguar sold 43,793 vehicles up 33 percent with increases in each major region: 98 percent in the China Region, 28 percent in North America, 23 percent in the UK, 22 percent in Asia Pacific, 15 percent in Europe and 25 percent in other overseas markets.

Land Rover
Land Rover set a new July sales record retailing 25,454 vehicles, up 14 percent. Solid performances were seen across the new and refreshed line up with a particularly strong month from Discovery 4 up 37 percent. Positive performances were recorded in: Asia Pacific up 46 percent, North American up 21 percent, the China Region up 20 percent and the UK up three percent. Sales in Europe were down by 5% due to Range Rover Sport run out.

Calendar year to date, Land Rover sold 198,008 vehicles up eleven percent with a strong performance from Freelander up 27 percent and all-new Range Rover retailing 25,863 units. Positive growth was seen in all major regions: Asia Pacific up 30 percent, the UK up 13 percent, North America up eleven percent, the China Region up eight percent, Europe up four percent and other overseas markets up 20 percent.

RN Rao is the new Director of sales and market at Asia Motor Works

India's third largest heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer, Asia Motor Works (AMW) announced that the appointment of RN Rao as Director, Sales and Marketing. He will be responsible for marketing, sales, service and product development. He will be based at the Company's corporate office in Mumbai, according to a company statement.

Rao is a Mechanical engineer from VJTI, Mumbai and holds a Post Graduate degree in Marketing Management from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. He began his career with Lucas TVS and subsequently joined Ashok Leyland, where he has worked in several management positions in the Company. He has over 30 years experience in the industry and has worked in several regional and national assignments.

Anirudh Bhuwalka, Managing Director & CEO, AMW said that Rao's rich experience in the commercial vehicles industry in India will help AMW achieve its aggressive plans of growth.

AMW Motors (AMW) is India's third largest manufacturer of heavy commercial vehicles and has achieved a unique position in India's transportation sector through innovative engineering and customer orientation. AMW is the fastest growing truck brand in India with an annual volume growth of over 100 percent for the last three years. In addition AMW has a dominant presence in the fast growing Tipper segment. Its vehicles are the preferred choice in the mining, construction and infrastructure sectors, where they operate under very arduous road and load conditions. 

Widening footprint 

The company has a widespread and growing dealer and service network across India with 123 dealerships and over 1,500 touch points. This network includes sales and service centres, authorised service outlets, mobile vans, workshops and a 24X7 helpline called 'AMW Seva' which ensures a rapid response to customer needs.Wide Product Range AMW offers trucks ranging from 16 to 49 tonnes and has pioneered several segments in the Indian CV market. The AMW 49 ton model created the segment
and was India's largest tractor-trailer at launch. In addition, AMW also created the construction and mining segments in the Indian CV market with its range of tippers. AMW won the prestigious 'CV Maker of the Year Award' 2012 by Apollo-CV Magazine. In addition, AMW won the 'Truck of the Year' award from NDTV in January 2008. The company also received the coveted 'CV
Innovation of the Year 2009-10' award for its 3123 model. AMW CV Applications was given the 'Truck Application Builder of the Year- 2010' award for its Tranztar brand of fully built vehicles.

Manufacturing Facilities 

AMW's fully integrated manufacturing facility in Bhuj, Gujarat, has a planned capacity of 50,000 commercial vehicles per annum. The facilities include a fully integrated assembly line, contemporary cab and paint shops and world class testing facilities. AMW's 200-seat research centre focuses on research and development of new products and technologies that impact performance characteristics, safety, environment and comfort.

Renault to flag off West Coast Expedition of Dusters from Mumbai on August 15, 2013

With the aim of offering an exciting, adrenaline-filled experience to Renault Duster owners, the Chennai-based French car manufacturer, Renault India today launched the 'Gang of Dusters' initiative, offering its patrons and their families an opportunity to enjoy adventurous long drives pan India with the Renault team. This exclusive programme will kick-start during the Independence Day weekend, with a flag off from Mumbai on August 15, 2013 according to a company handout. Apparently, the first of many drives to come as part of the Gang of Dusters, the West Coast Expedition would commence from Mumbai, the capital of western Indian state of Maharasthra and would further see owner-driven Renault Duster SUVs pass through Panhala, Dandeli, Goa and Kolad before culminating back in Mumbai on August 19, noted the statement.

Speaking on the occasion, Sumit Sawhney, Executive Director, Marketing & Sales, Renault India Private Ltd said: “After creating a new segment and reshaping the perception of Indian drivers about SUVs, the Renault Duster has been one of the most popular vehicles in the country over the past year and has won over nearly 60,000 owners. The Gang of Dusters is a celebration of a fabulous year and an opportunity for us share with Duster owners a sense of freedom and excitement with an adventurous drive and welcome each and every one of them into the Renault family". During the drive, participants will have the opportunity to meet and share experiences with other Duster owners and drive enthusiasts as well as visit historic sites, go on a wildlife safari, talk to a rally expert, take part in impromptu rallies, go rock climbing, build rafts and attend interactive service sessions, among others.The Gang of Dusters initiative will continue after the West Coast Expedition, with regular drives organized for owners across India in the coming months. For more information on the West Coast Expedition as well as to register for upcoming drives, visit renault.co.in/gangofdusters. Regular updates will also be posted on Renault India’s Facebook page (Twitter: twitter.com/Renault_India ) and Twitter (facebook.com/RenaultIndia). Renault India is a fully owned subsidiary of Renault S.A.S., France and currently offers five models in the Indian market – the premium sedan Fluence, the luxury SUV Koleos, the premium compact car, Pulse, the SUV, Duster and the premium sedan, Scala. Renault India also exports the Duster to a growing number of right-hand drive markets. Renault cars are manufactured in the manufacturing facility located in Oragadam, Chennai, with a capacity of 400,000 units per annum. Currently, Renault India also has a widespread presence of 100 dealer outlets across the country with benchmark sales and service quality. Renault’s robust product line up and services have also seen strong recognition among customers and industry experts alike, winning a record-breaking 37 titles, including 29 accolades for the Duster as well as awards for the Pulse and Scala, making Renault the most awarded automotive brand in a single year in the country.

Antolin Kasai-Tek inaugurates its auto component manufacturing plant at Sriperumbudur near Chennai

The joint venture of Spanish auto coponent manufacturer Groupo Antolin and its Japanese alliance firm, Kasai Kogyo, Antolin Kasai-Tek (AK-Tek) has inaugurated its manufacturing plant at Sriperumbudur near Chennai, the capital city of the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

The JV will make vehicle door panels and other plastic components for the Renault-Nissan Group. It may be recalled that the Spanish-Japenese formed a strategic alliance in 2012 to set up a manufacturing plant, eyeing the burgeoning Indian automobile industry. Besides having cohesive focus on Renault-Nissan joint venture, the company would also be exploring the opportunity to add more clients to its India roadmap. Ernesto Antolin, Vice President of Antolin Group and Kuniyuki Watanabe, President of Kasai Kogyo jointly inaugurated the plant. The 50:50 joint venture has come up near one of the three existing Antolin auto component manufacturing plants, with an investment of ten million euros. The AK-Tek joint venture is aiming at achieving an estimated turnover of 9.3 million by next year.

Global growth

Antolin is contemplating on foraying the supply partnership is to boost its global turnover, more particularly in plastics component production and further catering to the specific customer interest. The partnership is being operated from Grupo Antolin's plant at Shanghai in neghbouring China. Similarly, the alliance would set up manufacturing facilities in destinations, where it is already present and that includes Brazil, China, Mexico and Russia, according to a company statement.

Spain plant expansion

As part of its strategy of going closer to its clients, Grupo Antolin is ramping up a just in time modular headliners factory it had esttablished in Spain in 2012, specifically in supplying parts to Ford's car manufacturing facility at Valencia in Almussafes. The Antolin plant is functioning from the US car maker's Rey Juan Carlos I Supplier Park, near the conveyor that shifts the headliners in sequence to Ford's assembly unit. Although, the first assembly line at JIT facility commenced back in October last year, supplying Ford Kuga headliners. Subsequently, it established a second assembly line in the same location catering to Ford C-Max. What is more, this unit was shifted from Antolin-Autotrim in order to be near the Ford conveyor. Furthermore, the JIT factory will have an addition of one more assembly line catering to the forthcoming Ford Transit Connect project, as a result of Ford Europa restructure programme, according to Eernesto Antolin.

 

Harley Rock Riders Season IV comes calling Pune

Celebrating the expression of freedom through music and motorcycling, Harley-Davidson India kicked off the fourth season of their annual music property Harley Rock Riders in Pune at with electrifying performances by two independent Indian rock bands - The Light Years Explode and Arquebus.

The spectacle started at 8.00 pm by a decibel smashing performance by the The Light Year Explode. The tone was set and the mood upbeat as Arquebus energized the masses present at Hard Rock Cafe through their inspired performance. By 10.30 pm Pune youth head-banged in unison and the open night sky was lit up with the passion of the crowd. The chain reaction of music, bikes and fans reached their epitome when the key notes faded away and Pune stamped its authority as the 'rock mecca' of Maharashtra, according to a company statement. Harley Rock Riders gave fans a taste of the freedom that Harley-Davidson enthusiasts and owners live everyday.  Experiencing it for the first time in Pune has left a lasting imprint in the heads and hearts of many.  

“Harley Rock Riders is back and bigger, louder and more inspiring than ever before. We take pride in our heritage and association with rock music and Harley Rock Riders is a testament to our commitment towards creating a revolutionising experience for the young ambitious generation in India. This year Harley Rock Riders IV embarks on its yearly journey from the ‘rock capital’ of Maharashtra- Pune, setting the benchmark for the other five cities where independent Indian bands will rock and sway the crowds over the next three months” – Anoop Prakash, Managing Director, Harley-Davidson India pointed out.

The Harley-Davidson culture is as much about its unique style as the motorcycles themselves and music forms an integral part of it.  Given the brand’s historic association with Rock & Roll and its legends, the company launched its annual music property – Harley Rock Riders in India in 2010, partnering with Rolling Stone India, to bring together motorcycling and music like never before.

The focus of this initiative is to inspire an organic rock music culture in India by encouraging promising indigenous rock bands and providing them a unique platform to showcase their abundant talent.  On the back of the fantastic response received in Season I, II and III from rock music aficionados and Harley enthusiasts from across the country. This year the annual jamboree will travel across six cities in India starting from Pune and then travelling to Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Delhi and finally to Mumbai for the grand finale on 12th October, 2012.

Within just few years of its inception, Harley Rock Riders has earned the status of being one of the most awaited rock music events in the country earning widespread acknowledgement and respect from indigenous rock bands as a leading platform to showcase their talent and enhance their fan base. It further facilitated Harley-Davidson to connect with a larger base of Harley enthusiasts establishing the brand’s true lifestyle and culture which would be incomplete without music.

Harley-Davidson India commenced operations in August 2009 and appointed its first dealership in July 2010. The Company offers 12 models in its line-up in India, in addition to a full range of genuine parts, accessories, and general merchandise, available through its nine authorized dealerships. Harley-Davidson India is headquartered at Gurgaon, Haryana, and has an assembly unit at Bawal, Haryana. At present we have nine dealerships across India- New Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Kochi, Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

Indian Government to hold annual surprise checks at car manufacturing plants

The Union Government is contemplating on conducting annual surprise checks at the automobile original equipment manufacturers pan India to make sure that mandatory statutory norms stipulated in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules are obliged by the auto makers.

The Union Government is contemplating on conducting annual surprise checks at the automobile original equipment manufacturers pan India to make sure that mandatory statutory norms stipulated in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules are obliged by the auto makers.

Apparently, the initiative, which envisages new sets of vehicle inspection rules for testing agencies like the Automotive Research Association of India, comes in the wake of the recent incidence of General Motors' emissions data manipulation issue, which came to light only last month, forcing the Government to go stringent on the auto makers, according to an IE report.

A senior Government official told the daily's financial publication, FE that the move, contrary to the earlier practice of giving a ten day intimation to vehicle makers before official testing agencies visit for annual checks, will be changed. India is right now following the system that is based on European model.

The testing agencies will set up flying squad, which will visit the car manufacturers' plants without any official announcement. The official said that as it is there was no need for a change in the current laws, but a minor change in the inspection rules would do. 'At the moment, it is a goodwill gesture from our side to inform the auto makers that we are going to come on a specific date to inspect the plant and that seems to be not working. So, with a such a system in place, other auto makers flouting norms might as well be caught, the official added.
Current system
Under the current system, vehicle manufacturers initially apply for a type approval. Based on that the vehicle is sent to agencies such as ARAI for a thorough testing under CMVR yardsticks including mileage, emission control and safety standards of the vehicle. Secondly, there is this mechanism called Conformity of Production, where ARAI conducts random inspections from the final assembly lines for each model from every auto maker once in a year. In the second step, an estimated three vehicles were taken by the agency and tested to verify whether the production vehicle had met the originally declared yardsticks.

At the conclusion of the report, VG Ramakrishnan, Managing Director at Frost & Sullivan, South Asia was quoted as saying by the report that every auto maker would have to pay for the fault of one firm under such a system. Therefore, this would create increased regulatory framework involvement, which might not be to the liking of the automobile industry".

DSK Hyosung Super Bikes showroom launched in Kolhapur

There is good news in store for bike enthusiasts in Kolhapur as DSK Hyosung Motors today announced the launch of their new company owned showroom in Kolhapur. The launch of this showroom marks the launch of 27th Showroom for DSK Hyosung in the country and 4th in Maharashtra, making it the brand with the widest network of Super Bike showrooms which has further enhanced DSK Hyosung’s reach on the Indian super biking Map, according to a company statement.

During the launch, Shirish Kulkarni, Chairman, DSK Motowheels said: “It gives us immense pleasure to enter this highly lucrative market of Kolhapur and DSK Hyosung is delighted to announce the opening of our showroom for the world class products for the Superbike enthusiast in Kolhapur. It is an exciting opportunity for us as DSK Hyosung symbolises dynamic forward moving people and is among the most coveted premium brands in India. DSK Hyosung firmly believes and is committed to offer Super Bikes of high quality to bike aficionados at affordable price. We are confident that our products and after sales services in Kolhapur will take the super bike experience to the next level".

The showroom will showcase the entire gamut of DSK Hyosung Super Bikes:  Aquila Pro (650 CC sports cruiser), GT 250 R (250 CC sports bike), New GT650R (650cc Sports bike), ST 7 (700 cc Cruiser bike) and GT 650 N (650cc Naked sports bike). The super bikes would be available for the bike lovers in the city at an  attractive prices of Rs 2,76,000 for GT250R, Rs 3,96,000 for GT650N, Rs 4,90,000 for GT650R, Rs 5,38,000 for Aquila Pro and Rs 6,12,000 for ST7 (all ex-showroom price).  For the record DSK Hyosung has a strong presence in the Tier-I and Tier-II markets like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Jaipur and Pune the brand also has a remarkable presence in cities like Raipur, Nagpur, Indore and Guwahati.

DSK Motowheels also offers unique 24*7 emergency services. Customers would be offered 24*7 on call breakdown service, onsite emergency repairs, battery jumpstart, Fuel delivery, lost key support, transfer-towing of vehicle and taxi drop facility. DSK Hyosung Superbikes showroom strategically located at 343, E Ward opposite Railway Station Bus stop, Station road, Kolhapur.Maharashtra.416001. This company owned ultra-modern showroom is integrated with all after-sales services to the customer. All operations related to sales are efficiently covered from the space, which ensures comfort to the customer at the point of sales.

Established in 2012, DSK Motowheels is a part of DSK Group (Diversified business group with a turnover of over Rs. 5000crores) forayed into the growing automobile sector by entering the niche segment of powerful and aspirational bikes in an association with Hyosung (Part of S&T Motors - Korea). Taking forward the rich legacy and dynamic entrepreneurship,  Shirish Kulkarni, Chairman DSK Motowheels Pvt Ltd, spearheads the brand DSK Hyosung in India with a primary objective of providing a world class super biking experience at an affordable price.

With a CKD plant in Wai, DSK Hyosung enjoys the status of having the largest number of superbike network in India. Being a leading super biking brand of global repute, Hyosung is known for its high-end biking experience at a value-for-money proposition. Renowned for its products, technology and quality, Hyosung dominates the super biking market in US, South America, UK, Australia and many Asian countries including India.

Scania hands over 60 trucks to Krishnapatnam Port Company

Scania Commercial Vehicles India, one of the leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in the country had handed over 60 trucks to one of India’s largest private port operators, Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited (KPCL), making this a new business model ever, for Scania in India.

From (L-R): Sudhir Prabhu, MD, Hypra Tek, Bala Murali, Head Logistic, Krishnapatnam, Anil Yendluri, Chief Executive Officer,KPCL, Anders Grundströmer, Managing Director, Scania Commercial Vehicles India, Sivakumar Viswam, Director Sales, Scania India at the Krishnapatnam port handing over the keys.

The trucks handed over included the recently launched Scania P 410 8x4, the most powerful 8x4 tipper in the coal transportation tipper segment. This truck is powered by Scania Opticruise, an automated gear-changing system for best fuel efficiency and ease of driving, with the highest possible carrying capacity for port inter-carting of coal, a press note issued by the truck maker said.

This is a long term partnership for Scania and KPCL, noted the statement. Scania will establish a dedicated operating lease fleet along with a service workshop at the port so as to maintain best uptime and turn around efficiencies. Scania India will also deliver five workshop containers for service on site backed by driver training centre at the port to enhance the operations.

Speaking on the occasion, Anders Grundströmer, Managing Director, Scania Commercial Vehicles India and Vice President Scania Group, said: “This is a very proud moment for us.This is proof of the confidence that customers in India have in us. KPCL has chosen Scania as its transportation partner and we are sure that over time they will see the benefits of a lower TCO".

Anil Yendluri, Chief Executive Officer, KPCL added: “This is an important association for us as Scania offers cost-effective transport solutions which directly impact our business. We are very excited to be associated with Scaniaandare happy to unveil Scania’s P 410 8x4 in India. We strong believe that Scania will help improve our profitability and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship. We are also working with Scania on other significant areas such as logistics and transportation solutions for LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) and container transportation".

KPCL was created through a mandate from the Government of Andhra Pradesh to develop the existing minor port into modern, deep water and high Productivity port, on BOST (Build–Operate-Share-Transfer) concession basis for 50 years. The port is being built in three phases. Post the completion of the first phase in a record time of 18 months, Krishnapatnam Port was dedicated to the nation on July 17, 2008. Currently the second phase of development is underway. The port has numerous strengths such as its area, location, weather and the credentials of CVR Group that is promoting this port, it is soon be poised to become one of the biggest ports in the world.

Annual production 

Scania targets an annual roll-out of 2,500 heavy haulage trucks and 1,000 inter-city multi-axle buses and coaches from the plant within five years. The first truck is expected to roll out in April 2013. The Narasapura manufacturing plant near Bangalore is expected to further boost the company’s salesand service offering, bring in a wider selection of models and shorten delivery times.

Investment galore
Scania is investing about Rs 2.5 billion in an industrial facility in Bangalore. The Scania Regional Product Centre India will also be the hub of the Scania's commercial operations in the country. The truck maker's ambition is to sell about 2,500 trucks, 1,000 coaches a year in the Indian market within the next five years. The manufacturing plant is being constructed in an industrial area 40 km east of the city, the capital of the south Indian state of Karnataka. Production has commenced from June this year. It is estimated that almost 800 people will be employed at the facility in the longer term.

The industrial operations will consist of final assembly of trucks with bodywork and building of complete coaches with bodywork. The head office of Scania’s Indian company, complete with a service workshop and a central parts warehouse, will be housed at the same site. Scania has been represented in the Indian market since 2007, when a partnership was initiated with Larsen & Toubro (L&T). L&T has successfully established Scania’s trucks and services and has developed a close partnership with customers in the mining industry. L&T currently operates about 10 Scania service workshops at various mining sites in the country.

In 2011, Scania established the entity, Scania Commercial Vehicles India in order to boost its presence through sales to additional segments of the Indian commercial vehicle market. Scania recently launched a new range of on-road haulage truck models specially adapted for the Indian market - the R 500 6x4, the G 460 6x4 and the P 410 6x2. The P 410 8x4 mining tipper was launched in December 2012.

In the beginning of 2013 Scania launched a new coach range, specially for the Indian market. The new coach range is offered in three models and is a purpose-designed coach for luxury intercity or charter travels. In June same year Scania launched engines for industrial, marine and power generation in India.

Continental and Cisco to develop high speed and reliable network connectivity

Automobile original equipment manufacturers and suppliers worldwide are looking to put future automotive innovative functions in their vehicle to help enhance the experience of owning and driving a vehicle.

Right from drivers receiving real time traffic and navigation guidance, to passengers viewing movies via cloud based infotainment, to manufacturers keeping vehicle software updated over-the-air, to automated and driverless automobiles, the future vehicle will need to communicate with the outside world via seamless access to the Internet over wireless networks. Continental and Cisco exhibited a proof-of-concept connected vehicle at the Centre for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars, according to a statement issed by Continental.

This joint proof-of-concept connected vehicle is equipped with the secure and seamless network technology to meet the growing demands for connected vehicles. Continental lay the foundation for added innovative automobile functions and benefits to passengers to make connectivity to the digital world outside a moving vehicle a secure, reliable and enjoyable experience. Cisco enterprise-grade, seamless wireless network switching technology is highly secure and will connect passengers to the right network based on their location on the road and their user preference. Based on this initial proof of concept solution, Continental and Cisco are also planning to work together to develop innovative solutions that leverage ubiquitous connectivity of moving vehicles.

High speed and reliable network connectivity

As a vehicle moves, it needs to prioritise critical needs of drivers and passengers for network connectivity. The Cisco on-board software solution seamlessly switches between available 3G, 4G and other wireless networks based on cost and quality of service preferences.

Enhanced Security

The Cisco and Continental proof of concept car shows how car manufactures can provide the same amount of network security that is available at home or in the office. Cisco provides one secure software gateway that delivers Cisco’s core networking capabilities and optimises all communication links and mobility services to and from the vehicle. Security against cyber attacks will become more important as more connected functions are brought to vehicles.

Elmar Degenhart, CEO, Continental: “At Continental we believe that the internet does not just come into the car, but that the car becomes a part of the internet. This opens up so many exciting opportunities for shaping the mobility of the future through innovation and creativity. We think the best way to unlock the opportunities of the connected vehicle is to look for collaborations, where we bring together areas of expertise and allow breakthrough technology to be imagined, developed and brought to market.”

Guido Jouret, VP and General Manager, Internet of Things group at Cisco: “We are now seeing a glimpse of how the combination of automotive and networking expertise can help overcome challenges in next generation connectivity and security. We look forward to working with the automobile industry to unlock the tremendous value of connecting cars to the Internet of Everything".

Ralf Lenninger, head of innovation and strategy at Continental’s Interior Division: “Connected vehicles are opening up a vast field of opportunities for services to make driving safer, more efficient and more comfortable. This is why we are looking at ways to connect the moving vehicle in a highly secure, fast and reliable way. By cooperating with Cisco, we can combine their expertise in software and network knowledge, with our knowhow in automotive hardware, embedded software and systems integration in order to create solutions for the connected vehicle of the future". Cisco is the worldwide leader in IT that helps companies seize the opportunities of tomorrow by proving that amazing things can happen when you connect the previously unconnected. With sales of € 32.7 billion in 2012, Continental is among the leading global automotive suppliers. As a supplier of brake systems, systems and components for powertrains and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics, tyres, and technical elastomers, Continental contributes to enhanced driving safety and global climate protection. Continental is also an expert partner in networked automobile communication. Continental currently has an estimated 175,000 employees in 46 countries.

The Automotive Group with its three divisions Chassis and Safety (sales of around €7.0 billion in 2012, 34,500 employees), Powertrain (sales of about € 6.1 billion in 2012, 31,000 employees) and Interior (sales of €6.4 billion in 2012, 33,000 employees) achieved sales of € 19.5 billion in 2012. The Automotive Group is present in more than 170 locations worldwide. As a partner of the automotive and commercial vehicle industry, it develops and produces innovative products and systems for a modern automotive future in which cars provide individual mobility and driving pleasure consistent with driving safety, environmental responsibility, and cost efficiency.

The Chassis and Safety division develops and produces electronic and hydraulic brake and chassis control systems, sensors, driver assistance systems, air bag electronics and sensors, washer systems, and electronic air suspension systems. Its core competence is the integration of active and passive driving safety into ContiGuard®. The Powertrain division integrates innovative and efficient system solutions for vehicle powertrains. The comprehensive range of products includes gasoline and diesel injection systems, engine management and transmission control, including sensors and actuators, as well as fuel supply systems and components and systems for hybrid and electric drives. Information management is at the very heart of the Interior division, which provides a range of products that includes instrument clusters and multifunctional displays, control units, electronic car-entry systems, tire-monitoring systems, radios, multimedia and navigation systems, climate control systems, telematics solutions, and cockpit modules and systems.