Auto Asia July-August 2016

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The Asian Magazine for

A MAGNUM OPUS OF INTREPID JOURNALISM

Managing Editor Reny Singh | Editor Sarvjit Kanwar | Circulation Surekha China Correspondent & Reporters Ying Wei (Beijing), Xingguang Li (Shanghai)

for Automotive, OEM’s After-Market & Components

Associate Editors Vishwapreet, Amrita | Secretary & Legal Advisor K. Surinder Production, Design & Digital Media Diamond Infomedia Overseas Editors Julia, Steffen, Saskian (Germany)

Vol.17 No.4 | New Delhi | India

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Email. info@autoasia.net | Web. www.autoasia.net Published, edited & owned by Sarvjit Singh, on behalf of WORLDWIDE PUBLICATIONS, D-182, PR House, Anand Vihar, New Delhi-110092, and printed by him at Technical Press Inc. D-182/C, Anand Vihar, New Delhi-110092, India. Founder Editor-in-Chief Late Mr Kanwar N.S.

MAKE IN INDIA - AUTOMOBILES REASONS TO INVEST By 2016, India is expected to be the third largest automotive market by volume in the world.

Tractor sales in the country are expected to grow at CAGR of 8-9% in the next five years, upping India’s market potential for international brands.

Two-wheeler production has grown from 8.5 Million units annually to 15.9 Million units in the last seven years. Significant opportunities exist in rural markets. India’s car market has the potential to grow to six Million-plus units annually by 2020.

The emergence of large automotive clusters in the country: Delhi-GurgaonFaridabad in the north, Mumbai-Pune-Nashik-Aurangabad in the west, Chennai-Bengaluru-Hosur in the south and Jamshedpur-Kolkata in the east.

Global car majors have been ramping up investments in India to cater to growing domestic demand. These manufacturers plan to leverage Indiaís competitive advantage to set up export-oriented production hubs.

An R&D hub: strong support from the government in the setting up of NATRiP centres. Private players such as Hyundai, Suzuki, GM are keen to set up an R&D base in India.

Tata Nano is a sterling example of Indian frugal engineering and is being positioned as a mobiliser of the young generation.

- Two- and three-wheelers projected to expand at a CAGR of 8% during FY 2014-21 - Commercial vehicles expected to register a CAGR of 19% during FY 2014-21 - A growing working population and an expanding middle-class are expected to remain key demand drivers. GDP per capita has grown from USD 1,432.25 in 2010 to USD 1,500.76 in 2012, and is expected to reach USD 1,869.34 by 2018.

- India has the worldís 12th largest number of high-net-worth individuals, with a growth of 20.8%, the highest among the top 12 countries.

- Increasing disposable incomes in the rural agri-sector.

- The presence of a large pool of skilled and semi-skilled workers and a strong educational system.

A large number of products are available to consumers across various segments. With the entry of a number of foreign players and reduced overall product lifecycle, quicker product launches have become the order of the day. The availability of a variety of vehicle models meet diverse needs and preferences.

Favourable government policies like lower excise duties, automotive mission plans, the constitution of NATRiP, National Mission for Electric Mobility 2020, FAME - Faster Adaption and Manufacturing of Hybrid land Electric Vehicle etc.

Electric cars are likely to be a sizeable market segment in the coming decade.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Key Facts: - Seventh largest producer in the world with an average annual production of 23.36 Million vehicles.

- Third largest automotive market by volume, by 2016.

- Four large auto manufacturing hubs across the country.

- 7.1% of the countryís GDP by volume.

- Six Million-plus vehicles to be sold annually, by 2020.

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GROWTH DRIVERS - Passenger vehicles to increase at a CAGR of 18% during FY 2014-21

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Passenger vehicles: passenger cars, utility vehicles, multi-purpose vehicles.

Two-wheelers: mopeds, scooters, motorcycles.

Three-wheelers: passenger carriers, goods carriers.

Commercial vehicles: light commercial vehicles, medium and heavy commercial vehicles.

Huge demands for low-cost electric vehicles that are suited for safe short-distance urban commutes (averaging 50-100 km/trip) that are rugged enough to perform reliably through Indiaís summers and monsoon. It is estimated that total electric vehicles sales would amount to 6-7 Million units by 2020. autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 3

Tata Group ties up with Uber for vehicle purchase

U

nder the partnership, those looking to operate Uber cars can buy Tata vehicles such as Indica and Indigo from Tata Motors and also get access to flexible and customised financing solutions from Tata Capital and Tata Motors Finance.

Tata Group announced a tie-up with ride-sharing company Uber Technologies to offer the drivers and owners on Uber platform comprehensive vehicle purchase and financing solutions, among other benefits.

Under the partnership, those looking to operate Uber cars can buy Tata vehicles such as Indica and Indigo from Tata Motors and also get access to flexible and customised financing solutions from Tata Capital and Tata Motors Finance.

They will also be able to buy insurance from Tata AIG, said Madhu Kannan, Member-Group Executive Council, and Group Head for business development and public affairs, Tata Sons.

4 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

In addition, Tata Business Support Services will provide operational support to drivers who want to use this new vehicle solutions programme, he said at a press meet here.

This will be a pan-India initiative, which has been rolled out first in Hyderabad.

Over the next one year, it will be extended to other places, enabling over 20,000 drivers to start their own business on the Uber platform, Kannan said.

Last year, Tata Opportunity Fund invested in Uber.

Eric Alexander, Head of

Business, Uber Asia, said the company has made it possible for millions of people in India to get a ride to work at the push of a button.

"It's clear from talking to drivers how much they value their flexibility and independence. It's why we are

excited to work with the Tatas to help make it easier and more affordable for drivers to get on the road, thereby promoting micro entrepreneurship in India," Alexander reasoned.

Mini Cooper S India Review John Cooper Works. Earlier this

similar to the car I had driven earlier

month, I got my chance! I referred to

and an excellent place to be.

the Cooper S earlier as the wicked

The leather and fabric combo seats

sibling of the Cooper D, and it

are extremely supportive and

definitely did live up to that moniker

provide a good amount of

right from the moment I clapped

bolstering and grip, very much

eyes on it. Where the diesel version

necessary in a car that can be

was a pleasant blue with silver alloys,

chucked around as much as the

the Cooper S was totally black. Black

Cooper. You get the fantastic to

body, black cladding on its wheel

hold, short diameter steering wheel

arches, black pillars, black roof and

with red contrast stitching and

black alloys with subtle accents of

control buttons for the cruise

chrome highlighting the headlights,

control, phone operation and audio

the front grille, fuel filler cap and the

system. The dashboard is a

few months ago, I had taken a Mini

tail lamp clusters. The overall effect is

marvellous combination of matte

Cooper diesel on a road trip from

definitely sinister and the first

grey leather, piano black plastic and

Mumbai, across the border into Gujarat

impressions were as good as any.

red leather.

A

and Daman, and finally back to Mumbai via Dadra

The attention to detail is spectacular

& Nagar Haveli. Along the way, the Cooper

as well; even the chromed twin

While seated in the driver seat,

showed just how much fun a brilliantly balanced

tailpipes have the John Cooper

information like current speed and

small car with a powerful engine, even if it is a

Works logo engraved into them.

other warnings are projected

diesel, could be. So, obviously, my next target was its more wicked brother, the Mini Cooper S 6 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

conveniently onto a head-up The interior of the Mini Cooper S is

display. The Cooper S also has the

large round feature mounted on top

behind the steering wheel. The

some performance parts and tunes the car to make it even more of a

of the centre console that houses

suspension is very well sorted out

handful. So, you pull on the ring below the gear lever to engage Sport

the infotainment display and control

and even on our terrible roads at

mode (the centre display proclaims Maximum Go-Kart Feel when you do

buttons for the sound system;

low speeds, most of the irregulari-

this!), double click a little loud button to open up the exhaust flaps, make

below which are the knobs for the

ties are sponged out well. The driver

sure the road ahead of you is clear and let it rip!

dual zone climate control. As is the

can toggle between Green, Mid and

case with other Cooper models, the

Sport driving modes which change

The Cooper S takes off with a lot of wheelspin and the speedo needle

beautifully crafted toggle switches

the behaviour of the engine (and

climbs through the numbers in a hurry. On the Mumbai-Pune expressway

for the engine ignition, automatic

decreases/increases the exhaust

where I drove it, it easily crested 220 kph. Even at high speeds, stability and

start/stop, HUD and the traction

noise).

road-holding is excellent. Minis have always been known for how effort-

control are located side by side in

lessly they can be chucked about on the road and this one is no different.

an arrangement that resembles

Now, if you are very eco-minded,

Best of all, every time you downshift from high revs, you get an absolutely

switches in a spacecraft!

you would drive this car in Green

superb roar-crackle-pop-pop from the exhaust!

mode (not that I can imagine an Power for the Cooper S comes from

eco-minded person ever driving a

The Cooper S is not the sort of car that works only on a racetrack; you could

a 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder, petrol that has

Mini Cooper S in the first place).

even use it as an everyday car (provided you do not have to ferry anyone

been turbocharged to put out 189

However, this is a Mini Cooper S that

about in the rear seat) and it will perform admirably.

bhp. The power is routed to the

also proudly bears a badge that says

wheels via a 6 speed automatic

John Cooper Works. JCW takes the

Yes, it will set you back by roughly INR 35 lakhs, but once you have driven it,

gearbox with paddle shifters located

regular Mini Cooper S, bolts on

the Cooper S JCW will justify every single penny that you spent on it.

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 7

Kawasaki Estrella BJ250 lands in India; possibly for benchmarking test by Bajaj

T

here’ve been a lot of reports being published on the internet about a possible launch of the Kawasaki Estrella BJ250 by its Indian arm.

However, we don’t think that’s going to happen.

As part of our research, we found that one unit of the Estrella BJ250 has been imported at a declared value of Rs 4.02 lakh. In the description section, it’s clearly mentioned that this cruiser is here for R&D purposes.

However, Kawasaki has its R&D facilities in Japan and Thailand and doesn’t have any such capabilities in India. This makes us believe that the Estrella BJ250 has been imported to India by Bajaj, who recently admitted its intention to compete with Royal Enfield.

So we think the Kawasaki Estrella BJ250 is in India for R&D activities including benchmarking test. And it looks like Bajaj has some serious cruiser ready to compete with the Royal Enfields. While we thought that the Pulsar CS400 was the main contender for Royal Enfield, but it looks like we’ll see more than one cruiser. In fact, the Pune-based manufacturer might create various segments like sports cruiser and traditional cruisers.

8 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

Refreshed 2016 Ssangyong Rexton coming soon

T

he 2016 Ssangyong Rexton doesn't look a whole lot different but it does get a new Euro 6 engine boasting more power and torque...

AS IF THERE HAVEN’T BEEN enough new SUVs announced in 2015, the flood looks set to continue unabated in 2016. First off the rank is the new SsangYong Rexton, until now pretty much a blip on the sales graph.

When the refreshed Rexton first broke cover in Korea earlier in the year, Ssangyong Australia spokesperson, Daniel Cotterill, told Practical Motoring the updated Rexton wouldn't arrive Down Under until 2016, although exact timing hadn't been confirmed. We've asked for an update now that the vehicle is going on-sale in the UK and Europe and will update this article when we hear back. The new Rexton doesn’t look much different, although

some of the details have been cleaned up, but the big news is under the bonnet with a new 2.2-litre Euro 6 diesel that delivers better power, better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Also new is the 7-speed MercedesBenz-derived automatic transmission. The new engine raises power to 131kW and 400Nm (up by 15 percent and 11 percent respectively) with maximum torque coming on from 1400rpm up to 2800rpm. Emissions are down from 196g/km to 184 and fuel consumption is now 7.1L/100km.

The big SsangYong is built on a tough ladder chassis and claims a 3-tonne towing capacity (with our usual warning to take this with a grain of salt and read our articles about real towing capacities). Reading between the lines, we think the lower spec model will come with a six-speed Mercedes-Benz auto transmission while the top-of-the-line will get the seven-speeder.

Rearview mirrors may soon become history

W

ith forward-looking car technology, the rearview mirror as we know it may soon become a thing of the past.

Technology at the Consumer Electronics Show showed how electronic cameras on a vehicle can give a driver a better view than conventional mirrors, eliminating blind spots which can lead to accidents. BMW showed its system in which small cameras replace 10 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

mirrors and offer an electronic display, allowing drivers to get three separate images or a single panoramic view. According to BMW, this means a driver can look ahead and won't need to turn his or her head to see side mirrors -- which have been removed and replaced with small cameras. French equipment maker Valeo meanwhile offered its "Sightstream" system which uses cameras as well but maintains electronic displays on

each side of the car. The Valeo system offers a less dramatic change than BMW, so drivers who are accustomed to looking right and left don't have to change their habits.

Both companies say their systems offer several advantages: a more complete view of the landscape and better vision at night. And they will avoid problems of side mirrors which get fogged up or covered with rain.

The systems offer a better aerodynamic profile for the car, which can reduce fuel consumption. None of these systems are in cars yet, but looking ahead, cameras seem to be the wave of the future. General Motors said the inside mirror in its Bolt electric car, to be introduced soon, will be able to connect to a camera, eliminating the problem of a view blocked by passengers or tall objects in the back seat.

Canadian auto components maker Magna opens two factories in Sanand

C

anada’s Magna International Inc. said it has started production at two facilities in Gujarat’s Sanand, which will supply auto parts to Ford Motor Co. in India. The facilities are located in a suppliers’ park next to Ford’s assembly plant in Gujarat’s Sanand.

Jim Tobin, chief marketing officer and president of Magna Asia said it was a multi-million dollar project with scope for expansion, without specifying the investment in the two units.

The company currently has 285 manufacturing locations globally, of which 11 are in India. “About 116 plants across the globe supply to Ford. We are looking at the next phase of growth to come from India,” Tobin said.

Magna is a global strategic components supplier of Ford. The USheadquartered automaker earlier this year started production from its factory in Sanand, which it has built for an estimated investment of $1 billion.

Tobin said the Indian automobile market is estimated to grow from 4 million units currently to about 12 million units by 2030.

At one of the new Sanand facilities, Magna assembles and provides justin-time deliveries of complete seat systems for Ford. The 215,000-sq. ft plant is expected to employ approximately 200 people at full production, building approximately 240,000 complete seat systems per year. Both units will together employ around 600 people. As for the

seating systems plant, it will have an initial capacity to make car seats for 240,000 cars per year that can be expanded to 500,000 car seats per year on a two-shift basis.

At the second facility in Sanand, Magna will build body and chassis systems for Ford.While the new plants reflect business awards for vehicles that are built from globalplatform architectures, they also help position Magna for further growth in India as vehicle production expands.

Sanand, located about 40 km from Ahmedabad, has emerged as a major destination for automakers, after Tata Motors decided to relocate its factory to Sanand in 2008 to build the Nano after facing protests at its original site in Singur,

West Bengal.

Companies that have followed Tata Motors’ footsteps in the last seven years include Ford India, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd and Honda Cars India Ltd. The Sanand-Hansalpur-Vithalapur region, which houses Suzuki’s upcoming car plant, is part of a proposed cluster of automobile and textile industries on the ambitious Delhi-Mumbai freight corridor. The region has seen investment proposals of `20,000-25,000 crore in the automobile manufacturing sector. autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 11

Honda NAVI crosses 10,000 unit sales mark

A

bout two months after the availability of Honda NAVI, a crossover between a motorcycle and a scooter, it has crossed the 10,000 unit sales mark.

Commenting on the NAVI’s new sales milestone, Yadvinder Singh Guleria, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) said, “We are delighted with the overwhelming response for NAVI from customers, especially from urban trendsetting youth. Unconventional design, looks and endless possibilities of customization, make owning NAVI a fantastic experience. The unique appeal has made it a rage in the two-wheeler industry. While we celebrate 10,000 units of NAVI and expand the NAVI phenomenon to new cities, the number of bookings is increasing. NAVI is a three-in-one 12 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

package with the ride feel of a motorcycle, comfort of a scooter and fun of a customized creation” The NAVI had received 900 bookings within five weeks of its unveiling at the Auto Expo 2016 in February. The two-wheeler, which is manufactured at the company’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, is mainly targeted 18-24 year-olds in urban areas.

Honda NAVI is powered by Activa 110cc engine which makes 8PS at 7,000rpm and delivers a peak torque of 8.96Nm at 5,500rpm. The Navi runs on 12" front and 10" rear wheels, each equipped with a 130mm drum-type braking unit, and gets tubeless tyres. It gets upsidedown telescopic forks at the front and a hydraulic mono-shock at the rear. Made only in India for the Indian

market, the NAVI is priced at Rs 39,648 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Are genuine car parts best?

Your car is a bundle of parts, and there are lots of different ways those parts can be supplied, and who can make them... so, are genuine car parts best?

ACCORDING TO MOST dictionaries, "genuine" means true and authentic, or in other words, not a fake or counterfeit. Notice there's nothing in that definition about who makes the part.

However, the FCAI (Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries), says "genuine parts are made or selected by the vehicle’s maker and rigorously tested by that maker as an integral component of the vehicle to meet high quality, safety and performance standards." That is true, but another, more widely used and more accurate term for such parts is OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, or sometimes just OE parts.

Then there are a range of companies who produce parts that are not manufacturer approved or supplied, and the usual term for these parts is "aftermarket". Reputable aftermarket companies absolutely do not want their goods passed off as OEM, and in fact go to great lengths to market their name and products as different to, or better than the OEM equivalent.

14 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

There are fake versions of some well-known aftermarket parts too, so you can have genuine aftermarket parts as well as genuine OEM parts.

What you definitely want to avoid is counterfeits of any part.

What sort of car parts can you, and should you buy?

If you buy OEM there's typically just

the one part for any given need.

However, aftermarket parts can be made by a variety of different manufacturers, and can be split into two types: copy parts look identical or similar to the OEM part, but importantly, are branded differently so they're not counterfeit or "nongenuine". Often these are nonvisible parts, for example CV joints.

Different parts are, well, different -

they may be styled differently, stronger, different dimensions or some other design change.

Examples of different parts would be stiffer suspension springs, a revised radiator design, restyled tail lights, or different specification of oil.

So, OEM or aftermarket parts which to choose? Here's some pros and cons: New-car warranty - OEM parts won't affect new-car warranty. Quality

aftermarket parts will be warranted for the part only, but if that part fails and causes problems elsewhere in the car then good luck getting either the car maker or aftermarket company to take responsibility.

Note that you don't need to use a dealer to supply or fit OEM parts to maintain your new car's warranty.

Cost - almost without exception, OEM parts are more expensive for the same function than copy parts.

That's because the aftermarket needs to offer something different to the OEM and if the part is the same, price is the differentiator.

However, aftermarket parts are often different designs, or higher quality. In this case they may well be more expensive than the OEM parts.

Quality - OEM parts tend to be a consistent quality, which typically means acceptable to very good. autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 15

There are however some poor quality OEM parts, and in many cases aftermarket parts are higher quality than OEM. Some OEM parts are built to a tight budget. For example, the tie rod on my Defender was quite weak, and LC100 front differentials are not known for their strength. There are some very poor quality aftermarket parts which are not counterfeit, but in general any counterfeit parts tend to be extremely poor quality as by definition they are fraudulent, and you don't even know who made the part in the first place so there can't be any comeback.

Fit for purpose - the OEM parts tend to be rather general purpose.

Aftermarket parts can be more focused, and that's what is meant by 'different' parts in the definition above. For example, with 4WDs it is very common to throw brand new suspension away as the OEM parts aren't designed to handle a heavy vehicle over rough terrain for extended periods. Sportscar drivers who drive on racetracks usually 16 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

replace brake pads, brake lines and brake fluid, if not the calipers and rotors themselves. Or maybe owners are after personalised cosmetic touches such as different wheels, grills, bonnets or tail lights.

People that tow heavy trailers may fit an upgraded cooling system.

Availability - this varies, but often OEM parts aren't as readily available as aftermarket as they are singlesourced, but sometimes it's viceversa. It's not unusual to wait weeks for certain parts, so you'd often want to take what you can get. Not all OEM parts will have an aftermarket equivalent either, but in some cases

there will be multiple aftermarket options. Wheels are a good example of where you're almost certain to find plenty of choice.

Quite a few factors to consider, but that's not all. Your choice gets more complicated again. Both OEM and aftermarket parts are available in different degrees of 'newness':

hard to find. Wreckers are a good source of these parts. These parts are also known sometimes as 'salvaged' parts. Used parts can be a real bargain, but must be carefully inspected to ensure they are still fit for purpose and have not been damaged either during the previous car's life, or in storage since.

New - brand new, never been used.

These will be the most expensive, but the highest quality.

There is a thriving trade in secondhand parts, usually when a modified vehicle is returned to stock form or owners decide to change parts.

Used - already used on another car, just a drop-in replacement. This is the cheapest option, but can be

Re-manufactured / reconditioned / refurbished - a used part that has been overhauled, perhaps with new

consumable sub-components like bearings, gears, new grease, been retuned and generally made as close to new as possible. Common examples are complex items such as starter motors, gearboxes and alternators. These parts are priced somewhere between new and used.

Just because a part is made by the OEM and fits your car doesn't mean to say it's appropriate or legal in Australia. Some parts fit our vehicles but haven't been approved for use in Australia, for example Toyota Racing Developments make a nice set of braided brake lines for the 86, but they aren't ADR-approved so can't be used here. Happily, there are aftermarket alternatives.

OK, so how do I choose which part to use when?

All that choice makes it hard to figure out which type of part to use when, at least for the layperson who isn't living and breathing cars. That's because part choice very much depends on the part required and the situation.

The safest way for the average consumer to figure out what to do is to find a reputable, trusted mechanic who specialises in your type of vehicle and follow their advice. Generally, such mechanics pick and choose between the OEM, aftermarket and the level of 'newness' depending on what's best at any given time, although dealers will almost always opt for the OEM part. A good mechanic will ask a series of questions about what you want to do with the car, and then present some options, allowing you to make a decision based on cost, function and speed of repair.

Factors affecting part choice include cost, fitness for the intended use, age of the car, how long you want the car to last for, availability, and owner preference. For example, I recently bought a CV joint for my Ranger. The OEM part cost $600, the aftermarket $200. This was in part because of the CV joint had to come with other components I didn't need...kind of sneaky on autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 17

Ford's part given than CVs are often snapped on 4WDs but it backfired for them when I just bought only the part I needed from the aftermarket.

I also used to destroy alternators in mud before I grew out of it, so I had two alternators and a standing deal with a reconditioning shop who would rebuild one while the other was busted yet again by Toolangi's finest brown stuff. Today, I have friends with high-value classics who are very careful to preserve their car's value, so they use only OEM parts because future owners will want that purity. And I have friends with runabout cars long past warranty who drop in the nearest used part to keep their cars on the road, and enjoy very cost-effective motoring as a result. So by now it should be obvious that it's simplistic and wrong to say that either OEM or aftermarket parts are always better than the other. However, it is true to say that you very much get what you pay for, and that company off eBay who doesn't seem to have a proper website and has forgotten to list their phone number...that would be what is known as a false economy.

Don't take risks with car parts, it can be deadly.

How can an aftermarket part possibly be as good as the OEM part?

As the lead engineer on a major car launch earlier this year told me, "the aftermarket guys can do this sort of stuff [parts] so much quicker than we can, they're far more nimble."

And here's a secret - car manufacturers don't manufacture anywhere near all of the car components themselves. They outsource design and manufacture to a vast array of companies who send them components to be assembled into a complete car, and a lot of those companies also design and sell aftermarket equivalents of the same parts they send to the OEMs. In some cases, the aftermarket company has a better name for quality than the OEM, so manufacturers actually fit those parts and boast about it in their advertising.

Examples are Bilstein suspension, Dana axles and Brembo brakes. And 18 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

another example - when Toyota created the 86 Race Series they didn't fit Toyota gear to their racecars, they fitted aftermarket suspension, wheels and brakes.

OEM parts are often built to a cost.

If a car will sell say 500,000 across the globe then saving $2 on a part is a $1 million saving, which is why tiny costs are cut. But not many cars sell half a million? Quite a few do, and given the amount of part sharing between models it's more than you'd think. Aftermarket parts on the other hand, don't sell in anywhere near the same volume and have to be better than the OEM, the default choice, for anyone to buy them.

Another interesting point to make is that sometimes car manufacturers offer different parts for the same vehicle, for example, heavy-duty suspension for towing. This is an implicit acknowledgment that the standard part cannot fit everybody's needs.

Simply, the good aftermarket companies wouldn't exist if they didn't supply quality gear, and in many cases they work closely with the car manufacturer to produce their products. However, the key point is "good aftermarket company". There are plenty of cheap knockoffs, and these parts can be outright dangerous to fit to your car.

Also, in general the car companies have the resources to do more integrated testing of parts than the aftermarket.

What's the real risk with buying car parts?

Let's now look at what the FCAI is warning us against, which is not "nongenuine" as they call it, but in reality counterfeit parts. These are car parts not made or approved by the OEM which are nevertheless branded as OEM parts by copying part numbers, logos and the like. They're the car equivalent of a $30 Rolex watch, but far more deadly because if a car part fails, that could lead to a crash or an expensive fix.

How to avoid? It's pretty simple, just use your brain, just like you'd avoid a $25 set of "Ray Ban" sunglasses. If for example the OEM wheels are $400 each from a dealer, then the OEM wheels are not going to be $100 each brand new from Joe's Car Parts. Logic says those wheels are either stolen or counterfeit. However, aftermarket wheels - not branded, or even resembling the OEM wheels - may well be cheaper than OEM. Simply, if it looks too good to be true then it is. Again, work with a trusted mechanic who will know what's what.

There are counterfeit versions of both OEM and better-known aftermarket parts, although the former are far more common.Just because a part is branded OEM or from a quality aftermarket manufacturer doesn't mean to say it is safe. Any part could be worn beyond safe limits, or the wrong part could be fitted, or it could be incorrectly fitted. Is the counterfeit risk real?

The FCAI says that "imports of counterfeit and pirated goods make up around 2.5 per cent of global imports", which is a quote from a European trade report that we've linked to at the end of the article. They then go on to say that "fake car parts from Asia are a growing part of that trade", but there is no source for this statement. This report's 2.5% includes pirated goods which include reproducing intangibles such as software, songs and films, as well as counterfeits which are created fake versions of products.

Renault Kwid Says 'Thank You India for the Overwhelming Response'

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he budget hatchback that turned heads when it was first announced late last year has received an overwhelming response in India with over 1,00,000 bookings and 50,000 units already on road.

Priced under 4 lakh, the Renault Kwid has proved to be a tough contender both in the small car segment as well as the affordable SUV category. One of the highlights of this budget hatchback is its unique SUV-like designing. The Kwid is sculpted and muscular with a subtle rear that gives it a compact car look.

Adding a dash of modern car technology, the Kwid features a chrome bezeled centre console which has the same touchscreen unit used in the Duster and Lodgy.

The touchscreen provides the user

to control media functions, telephony through Bluetooth and navigation.

An appealing exterior styling, a strong power train, good ride quality, confident and secure dynamics, decent feature set and a host of options make the Kwid unmatched in the segment.

With 24 awards already in its kitty, the Kwid is all geared up to stay India's favourite affordable yet robust SUVstyle compact car. And the award bouquet includes CNB Viewer's Choice Car of the Year 2016, Design of the Year 2016, NDTV CNB Car of the Year 2016, and Small Car of the Year 2016. autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 19

BMW 725Ld arrives in India for homologation

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recent report on imports states that the BMW 725Ld has arrived in India for homologation purpose.

Thereby, indicating on its possible debut in the country sometime soon. Interestingly, the new 725Ld gets a smaller 1995cc diesel engine and we believe that it might be offered as a base variant among the 7 Series variants in India.

The engine in the BMW 725Ld is expected to get the B47 fourcylinder common rail diesel engine offered by the German automaker.

Owing to a smaller engine capacity, 20 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

post launch, the BMW 725Ld will be surpass the Delhi-NCR region’s ban on the registration of cars that are powered by over 2.0-litre diesel engines. This will also mean that the new BMW 725Ld will also have an upper hand in luxury car market where other leading automakers like the Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar are yet to come up smaller diesel engine options. In terms of features, the 725Ld will share similar features with the regular 7 Series. A detailed report on the specifications will be known in the coming days.

As for the pricing aspect, the 725Ld expected to be offered as a base

variant, we believe that it might be priced lower than the current 7 Series range. Apart from Delhi-NCR region, the BMW 725Ld will also gain a stronghold in Kerala and other cities where NGT has been petitioning to ban the registration of over 2-litre diesel engine cars.

New Voodoo Ride Wash And Café Centers A ‘Big Hit’ In China received so far, we expect this novel concept to grow in popularity. In fact, the new Voodoo Ride Wash and Café Centers have been so well received that our distributor partner in China, TNP Performance, is planning on opening several more centers this year.”

In addition to the detailing center and café, the two locations serve as retail outlets for the complete line of Voodoo Ride car care products and other Voodoo Ride lifestyle products, such as apparel and accessories.

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Café Centers in Shanghai and Wuhan, China, have become a big hit with Chinese motorists, the company says.

Two new Voodoo Ride Wash and

These unique detailing centers provide car appearance services as well as comfortable place to enjoy a meal while they wait.

n addition to the detailing center and café, the two locations serve as retail outlets for the complete line of Voodoo Ride car care products and other Voodoo Ride lifestyle products, such as apparel and accessories.

“Voodoo Ride Wash and Cafés were created to let motorists multitask while they wait. By adding a café to the spacious waiting area, customers can get a quick meal and stay connected on their mobile devices while their vehicle is cared for,” said Christopher Ferraro, president of GS27 USA Inc. “With the feedback

“In addition to China, Voodoo Ride products are currently sold in over 700 retail locations in Japan and we will be entering the South Korean market in the coming months,” said Ferraro.

“Voodoo Ride is gaining global recognition as a leading car care brand as we expand its reach in Asia and throughout the world.”

The Parts Alliance Introduces Autopart Vending Machines With The Automobile Association

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he PA PartVend concept is being piloted in a number of strategic locations, with the machines electronically linked so The Parts Alliance can tell instantly which products are being used and when to replenish the stock. The Parts Alliance has launched the use of auto parts vending machines in partnership with the Automobile Association (AA), providing the U.K.’s biggest roadside assistance provider with access to parts on the road 24-hours a day.

The PA PartVend concept is being piloted in a number of strategic locations, with the machines electronically linked so The Parts Alliance can tell instantly which products are being used and when to replenish the stock. Mike Curry, sales director of national accounts for The Parts Alliance, said, “Early results are very positive and we hope to ramp up the number of locations significantly and pretty quickly. The vending machines not only allow access to stock out of normal hours but also mean we can get product closer to AA patrols in areas where we currently don’t have branches.” For example, a typical stock item is a battery, and the AA patrol gains access using a secure key code. Curry added, “It’s another way of extending our reach and increases the number of locations where the AA can quickly pick up parts if they haven’t got them on the van. They get what they need, the beleaguered motorist is back on the road more quickly and we have a sale. It’s a win for everyone.” Peter Sephton, chief executive of The Parts Alliance, said, ‘’The PA PartVend vending concept is a world industry first and contributes to our position as a technology leader in the distribution of auto parts in Europe. It integrates with our class leading electronic catalog AlliCat and our Parts Alliance Reporting and Compliance tool, PARC, that allows our customers to gain full traceability of their parts in the supply chain.” The Parts Alliance is the U.K. and Ireland’s largest group of wholly owned and franchised businesses supplying OE and matching quality auto parts to national and independent garages and workshops. autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 21

KNORR-BREMSE EXPANDS ITS COMMERCIAL VEHICLE POWERTRAIN BUSINESS WITH ENGINE AIR MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS Acquisition of UK-based GT Group strengthens Knorr-Bremse's market position in Europe and North America

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norr-Bremse is to take over GT Group based in Peterlee (County Durham, UK) thereby reinforcing its competitive position in the engine air management sector.

The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The acquisition is subject to approval by the anti-trust authorities.

GT Group’s core business is the development and manufacturing of EGR valves and exhaust brakes for diesel engines used in the commercial vehicle sector. The ownermanaged company with around 250 employees operates four locations in the Peterlee area and ranks in both product segments amongst the worldwide market leaders.

“The strategic fit of GT Group to Knorr-Bremse and the strong position of our combined businesses will enable us to meet the needs of our worldwide customers regarding the emission-compliant operation of diesel engines even more comprehensively,” explains Dr. Peter Laier, Member of the Executive Board of Knorr-Bremse AG, responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems Division.

“We access in-depth know-how in new technologies as GT’s mechatronic exhaust valves complement Knorr-Bremse’s existing product portfolio in Asia. Therefore we are planning a close engineering collaboration especially between GT Emissions Systems and our subsidiaries in Japan and China.

Together with the GT Group we are aiming to grow in new regions and strengthen our market position in Europe and North America. This way Knorr-Bremse will take a further step toward its declared aim of offering integrated system solutions and subsystems that boost 22 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

customer benefits, reduce costs and ensure both the safe and efficient operation of trucks, trailers, and buses over the entire life cycle.”

As GT Group Chairman and previous Owner Geoff Turnbull said: “KnorrBremse is at the pinnacle of engineering around the world and the perfect custodian for GT Group and the extensive expertise and technologies we have developed.

The support it will provide to GT Group’s established and experienced management team will maintain our trajectory of growth and maximize on new opportunities across international markets. With the expertise of our workforce and the support of its new owners, I am confident I am leaving the business in very safe hands.”

Thanks to its long-standing expertise as a supplier to many OEMs and its ongoing development work, GT Group is ideally placed to offer its customers tailor-made solutions and provide them with optimum support as they develop future engine generations. With its global presence, Knorr-Bremse will be able to offer GT Group’s mature product

technology not only in Europe and North America but also for local use in other markets currently subject to less stringent emissions regulations and/or adapt it to customer needs and market requirements. The GT Group products will complement the existing Knorr-Bremse portfolio and contribute to an overall increase in powertrain know-how at KnorrBremse.

An exhaust brake is a throttle valve situated downstream of the exhaust turbine. It is a type of retarder, a braking system which is mandatory on commercial vehicles. By restricting the mass air flow during engine overrun it increases pumping losses, thereby boosting engine braking power. The exhaust brake reduces the amount of work that has to be performed by the conventional wheel brakes, preventing them from overheating and reducing the risk of brake fade.

An EGR valve is a device on a diesel engine that controls how much exhaust gas is recirculated to the cylinders.

On vehicles with EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) technology, part of the

exhaust stream is cooled, mixed with incoming fresh air and recirculated back to the combustion chamber with the aim of reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. For precise adjustment of EGR volumes to engine operating conditions, the EGR valve must provide accurate control and fast response, and must also be sufficiently robust to withstand long-term operation under very harsh ambient conditions.

The GT Group, based in Peterlee, County Durham, is an international organization with more than 35 years of commitment to excellence in engineering design and manufacturing, specializing in environmental engineering, exporting products and services to more than 60 countries throughout the world. GT Group retains its head office in the North East of England and consists of four international organizations covering a diverse range of engineering activities including automotive products, project engineering and fabrication, seals, and safety related products for the transfer of LNG and other hazards substances in the Oil and Gas markets. www.gtgroup.co.uk

AUTO COS WHO DON’T RECALL VEHICLES DESPITE HAVING SAFETY DEFECTS MAY FACE PENALTIES FROM OCT 1

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ocal automakers follow a voluntary code of recall adopted by the industry in July 2012, and have since recalled about 2 million vehicles to fix seat belt tensioners, air bags and problems with brake systems.

Automobile companies that don't recall vehicles despite having clear evidence of safety defects may face penalties starting October 1, according to rules in the making.

Also on the cards is a governmentappointed nodal agency that could launch its own investigation into safety issues and even recommend the government to order a recall.

India has no mandatory vehicle recall policy, unlike in developed markets like Europe, Japan and the US. Local automakers follow a voluntary code of recall adopted by the industry in July 2012, and have since recalled about 2 million vehicles to fix seat belt tensioners, air bags and problems with brake systems. But transportation experts and consumers rue lack of government norms to make it compulsory for firms to act. The new proposals say the nodal agency shall monitor the recall process and audit the records.

The government could order manufacturers to recall vehicles if a certain percentage of buyers complain of a safety defect, according to a draft of amendments proposed to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. These provisions could kickstart from October, says the draft.. The step to frame the rules comes on a push from the 24 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

Prime Minister's Office.

The government is working on introducing the Road Transport and Safety Bill, 2015, in the next session of Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May told ministers to draft rules simultaneously with any proposed Act to cut down on the implementation time. Usually, details are worked on after the law is enacted, causing a delay in the actual implementation of new rules.

The Road Transport and Safety Bill seeks to implement stringent laws to deal with safety issues. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari last month had said its non-passage was his "biggest regret", as more people are getting killed every year in road accidents than in "wars, terror attacks or epidemics".

KK Gandhi, executive-director at the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, confirmed receipt of a notification on draft rules and said the industry body is in the process of examining the details. "Since we have a voluntary policy in place already, October deadline should

not pose much of a problem. But we have to study the fine-print first," he said.

A spokesperson at Maruti Suzuki welcomed the move. "We are yet to get into details but in principle, it is a positive and proactive step in favour of the consumer," he said. The draft lays out process for vehicle recalls.

Manufacturers will give at least four months for customers to take their vehicles for repair after recall notice is put out but they should also be open to entertaining customers for three years after the first recall announcement. The possible defects may include malfunction of steering components, brake system, fuel system, wheels or seat belt, seats and the head restraint mechanism.

The draft proposes to insert a provision in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules to set up the nodal agency, which will be appointed or designated by the Centre. This agency will monitor customer feedback or complaints, accident data or any specific situation related to safety defects. If it finds a significant number of "genuine safety

defects", it should share it with the concerned manufacturers for further investigation, the draft says. "Based on investigation, the concerned manufacturer shall decide need for recall." The nodal agency can also initiate its own investigation if it is not satisfied with findings of the manufacturer.

Draft rules propose penalties for manufacturers if they don't act on information they have, but doesn't specify details. "No penalty shall be levied in a case where the manufacturer voluntarily declares and undertakes a safety recall with due diligence. If the manufacturer fails to announce a safety recall where clear evidence is available as per the recall definitions, the Central government may issue appropriate directions and also impose appropriate penalty as per provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989," it says.

Any dispute between the nodal agency and a manufacturer shall be referred to the Centre for a final decision. The agency will have to be informed within 7 days of a recall exercise being initiated. It shall create a database of safety recalls.

2016 Aston Martin Rapide Launched at Rs. 3.29 Crores

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ston Martin has launched the 2016 Rapide at a staggering price of Rs. 3.29 Crore (Ex. Showroom, Thane) in the country. It was launched by Mr. Neil Slade, General Manager, Aston Martin Middle East and North Africa, and Mr. Lalit Choudary, Managing Director, Infinity Cars. The exquisite supercar debuted at Performance Cars, a division of Infinity Cars dealership, which retails Aston Martins in India.

CHECK OUT THE ASTON MARTIN V12 VANTAGE S

Martin said, “The British marquee luxury sport automobile producer is especially excited to introduce the revamped 2016 model of the best selling Rapide to Indian automotive enthusiasts. This model offers unprecedented power and comfort at an extremely attractive price. India has been a market of strategic importance for Aston Martin and we are very delighted to launch the new Rapide in the country. Aston Martin has been very responsive to the demands of the Indian consumers and have therefore launched the new Rapide especially for India.”

Talking about the new features of 2016 Aston Martin Rapide, it comes loaded with a 6.5-inch AMI III touchscreen infotainment system.

The infotainment system boasts of audio, navigation, telephony functions and vehicle information.

Speaking at the launch, Neil Slade, general manager, AMMENA , Aston

Under the hood, the 2016 Rapide has a new 6.0L V12 motor which belts out 505bhp of top power. It is linked to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission which propels the sedan to touch the 100kmph mark from standstill in just 4.6 seconds before topping out at 306kmph. As for safety, the supercar carries 8-

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airbags, dual pre-tensioning seat belts and load limiting technology for all the four occupants. Speaking on the decision to introduce the 2016 Rapide, Infinity Cars Managing Director, Lalit Choudary said, “The earlier Aston Martin Rapide is the highest selling four-door sports car in the country accounting for over 50 percent of the Aston Martin cars sold in India. The superior ground clearance, robust road handling, four-door practicality, well-crafted interiors; combined with its suitability to Indian roads, weather conditions and fuel requirements, makes the Rapide a perfect choice for the Indian supercar buyer."

2017 new Skoda Yeti Rendered

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he Czech car maker, Skoda unveiled the partially disguised production version of the Skoda VisionS concept at an event in Prague, that was showcased at the Geneva Motor Show 2016. The SUV has been codenamed as “A-Plus” and reportedly will get a Kodiak moniker. And we bring you a rendering of the second generation Skoda Yeti designed by Bernard Car Design.

Based on the Volkswagen’s MQB platform, the new Skoda Yeti could borrow some of the engine specs from the Volkswagen Tiguan, and it will be positioned in the same segment as that of the Tiguan, which is comes under a C-segment Compact SUV in Europe. While the Skoda Kodiaq will most likely be similar to the stretched Tiguan i.e. the XL version, which is a three-row version of the Volkswagen Tiguan.

As the engine details are not out yet, but it could be offered in both petrol and diesel engines, where the petrol unit is expected to be 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit and the diesel motor could be carried forward from its predecessor with some tweaks. Transmission options could be a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit. It will be available four-wheel drive system. Though, the company is planning to add a hybrid powertrain in its entire line-up.

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Leading car wash manufacturers will exhibit at Automechanika Frankfurt 2016 VEHICLE CARE AND RECONDITIONING GROUPED TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HALL 9.1

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he “who’s who” of the car wash business will gather once again from 13 to 17 September 2016 at Automechanika in Frankfurt.

At present, 85 per cent of the exhibitors from 2014 have already confirmed their participation. The majority of the companies come from Europe, including Otto Christ AG, Istobal, Nilfisk, Adriateh, KAW Kiehl KG, Flowey Products, Favagrossa, DuBois Chemicals, Ergox, Alfred Kärcher VertriebsGmbH, and WashTec Cleaning Technology GmbH. The companies Di Martino Spa and Golden Chimigal from Italy, as well as Tenzi from Poland, Axel Team from Greece as well as Gloria GmbH, Meine Waschstrasse GmbH, and Abacus Chemie from Germany will take part

30 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

Products and solutions for commercial vehicles will be presented by Alfred Kärcher Vertriebs-GmbH, Nilfisk, STR-Steinbrückner Reinigungstechnik GmbH, and others. The sign “Truck Competence” on the trade fair stand and the visitors’ guide bearing the same name will help visitors find commercial vehicle offerings from the various companies.

products and solutions for car wash and care.

Since then, the themes of vehicle care, reconditioning, and car wash have become an integral element of Automechanika. Over four decades, well-known manufacturers of car washes, cleaning agents, and cleaning accessories have presented their products in a dedicated area at the trade fair in Frankfurt; since 2008, they have been housed in the “Car Wash City” in the outdoor area.

In 2016, the theme Car Wash & Care is once again set to attract a large number of visitors. At the last Automechanika Frankfurt, around 10 per cent of the 140,000 visitors from 174 countries were interested in

For the first time, the themes of car wash, care, and reconditioning are being brought closer together at the fair: with the established “Car Wash City” being relocated to the outdoor area F10 and recently also F11, it is

in the trade fair for the first time, alongside TH Grass LLC from Russia.

now in direct proximity to Halls 8, 9, and 11.

The car care and reconditioning product area is being expanded and will be found in Hall 9.1 for the first time. So far, around 90 per cent of the exhibitors from 2014 in this product segment have already confirmed their participation, with the return of US-based Armored Auto UK Limited, a large key player in the industry with offices in Europe and Asia.

Distinguished industry experts will report on current topics and trends during the series of presentations in the “Car Wash City”, which proved very popular in 2014 and will take place in a lightweight hall again next year.

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 31

Maruti Suzuki named best private manufacturer at BML Munjal awards

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he winners for the 2016 edition were chosen after a stringent 7-stage process by an independent jury. Tata Steel has been given the award in Sustained Excellence category.

India's largest carmaker by volume Maruti Suzuki has won the award for best Private Sector (Manufacturing) category at the BML Munjal Awards for Business Excellence through Learning & Development.

The winners for the 2016 edition were chosen after a stringent 7stage process by an independent jury. Tata Steel has been given the award in Sustained Excellence category. Other winners include -

Public Sector Undertaking category BHEL, Special jury Recommendation in Private Sector (Manufacturing) category - Lupin, Private Sector (Services) category - Tata Consultancy Services, and Emerging Stars category - iQor.

concerted effort to create awareness and promote the importance of Learning & Development in professional areas to improve efficiency and quality of Indian workforce."

Past winners of the Awards include organisations such as Tata Steel, National Inurance, Bank of Baroda, Thermax, DHL HSBC, HDFC Bank, Infosys, Taj Hotels, HP, Indian Oil, Punjab National Bank, among others.

Congratulating the winners, Sunil Kant Munjal, Chairman, Hero Corporate Service said, "It was extremely heartening to see that competition for BML Munjal Awards have become tougher and despite that more companies are trying to participate and win this coveted prize."

He further added by saying, "Over the last decade it has been our autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 33

RENAULT KWID SUCCESS MAKING MARUTI SUZUKI, HYUNDAI TO REVISE THEIR STRATEGY FOR ENTRY LEVEL CARS?

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iven that Kwid’s SUV-related styling cues enthused buyers enough to reinvigorate the segment, Maruti is considering introducing next Alto in a tall boy, crossover avatar.

Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor India are looking to revise their strategy for entry-level car models, given the unexpected success of Renault's Kwid, said several people aware of the development.

Given that Kwid's SUV-related styling cues enthused buyers enough to reinvigorate the segment, Maruti Suzuki is considering introduction of the next Alto in a tall boy, crossover avatar by 2018, they said.

Hyundai has also started a new project internally called AH that aims to deliver a crossover design to woo entry-level car buyers in the second half of 2018, people said.

The South Korean car maker estimates potential sales of 95,000 to 1 lakh units with the new vehicle, according to vendors.

Although a small car, the Kwid has adopted the design swagger of a larger vehicle, prompting Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai to go back to the drawing board. Mahindra & Mahindra has created a new microSUV segment with its KUV100 starting at Rs 4.5 lakh, calling it an entry-level SUV.

car segment and that body style along with affordable pricing make for an interesting option for Indian consumers.

About a year after the Kwid's launch, more than 1lakh people have either bought or booked the car. The KUV100 has got about 37,000 bookings since its unveiling in November. The Kwid starts at Rs 2.6 lakh.

Even as the design of the next Alto is being deliberated, the new crossover hatch from Maruti Suzuki, the Ignis, will be hitting the market in the festive season.

Maruti Suzuki managing director Kenichi Ayukawa lauded Renault on its success. "We have to congratulate them but we are not happy, so we have to have some counter measure. We are deciding what kind of product is needed in that segment," he said.

Asenior executive at the largest car maker spoke of global trend of crossovers penetrating the compact

"The design for the new Alto is yet to be frozen for India but clearly a consideration of crossover body style is being looked at," he said.

The Ignis has a tall boy design with a high seating position, which will draw the attention of prospective buyers in the sub-Rs 6 lakh bracket, which makes up 35-40% of the overall car market.

The entry-level car market accounts for a fifth of the annual total of 5.5 lakh units. The segment has come alive with the Kwid, analysts said, adding that Nissan will be launching Redi-Go from the Datsun stable in June. That car too has similarly

aggressive styling, they said.

Rakesh Srivastava, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Hyundai Motor India, declined to comment on future product plans but said the entry car segment had been declining due to lack of launches.

With that having changed, the segment is expected to recover.

According to him, car penetration in India is still very low at 19 vehicles per 1,000 people and entry segment is bound to grow as many users of two wheelers will look to upgrade.

"We expect the entry car segment to continue sizeable volume with moderate growth rate with new launches," he said. "At Hyundai, we are watching every segment closely, including entry, for product opportunities to strengthen our leadership position with new launches of at least two new products every year."

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 35

Global automakers make India a training ground to learn best practices

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utomakers have now started exporting bigger cars and engines from India, and are also relying on local research & development to develop vehicles.In the past nine months, Mercedes-Benz brought some 80-90 Brazilians, in three batches, to its plant at Chakan in Pune. They were here for training on some critical processes of vehicle assembly, body and paint shop functioning, and an area where India has demonstrated its prowess compact cars.

Executives from Chakan are now scheduled to travel to the German company's facility at the town of Iracemapolis in Sao Paulo to offer the Brazilians some onsite training and help in setting up a paint shop.

India, with its frugal manufacturing capability, is known already as a base for producing small cars for the world. Automakers have now started exporting bigger cars and engines from here, and are also relying on local research & development (R&D) to develop vehicles. With the country becoming a training ground as well, and local sites defining the best practices for those elsewhere to follow, India is seen as etching its mark deep as a key cog in the global automobile industry.

way traffic. You've to perform and prove yourself and at the same time you also need acknowledgement," said Piyush Arora, executive director of operations at Mercedes-Benz India. "Our HQ (headquarters) has shown a lot of courage and confidence. They've entrusted with us training a third country; this shows the confidence the HQ has in us," added Arora.

Not too long ago, when Hyundai Motor was planning to start a third shift at its Alabama plant in the US, a team of about 30 people visited the Korean company's Chennai factory to understand, among other things, the shift pattern, logistics management and people movement. Ford Global Business Services, which employs close to 14,000 people in India, offers various services to Ford Motor's global operations, including in IT, accounting, engineering services and data analytics. Suzuki replicated Maruti Suzuki's dealer management system at Suzuki Pakistan. The Maruti system measures

operational performance of the company's nearly 2,000 dealerships.

The Japanese parent uses the Maruti-developed, IT-based warehouse management system at its Indonesian subsidiary, Suzuki IndoMobil. Indian executives were roped in to help their foreign counterparts in these process transfers.

"Managing the warehouse for parts is a complex process. Given the wide range of Maruti Suzuki models, and the need to service a massive national network in time, the company has created an effective warehouse management system for parts. This too is being adapted in other markets," said a Maruti spokesperson. As the world moves towards more of software and soft skills, there is a larger recognition of exceptional work done by companies in India and global organisations are willing to take the good work to other geographies and operations, said VG Ramakrishnan, managing director of

Avanteum Advisors. "We should expect Indian entities of global organisations having larger impact on global business in future."

According to Mercedes-Benz, its Indian plant is on par with those in Germany in terms of process quality and stability. In India, Mercedes doesn't produce the entire car, but assembles it from imported kits. But the maker of the S-Class saloon and GLA sports utility vehicle is increasing the use of local parts to make its products more affordable here. Copying the processes and practices allows the company to quickly set up facilities in other similar emerging markets, such as Brazil. When the Brazilians were at the Chakan plant, every visitor was assigned a mentor, with both working closely until the end of the training, said Arora, the executive director of operations at MercedesBenz India. And he sees India playing an increasingly key role whenever and wherever the company sets up a new plant.

This is also a demonstration of the confidence that automobile majors have in their Indian managers and an acknowledgement of the hard work they have put into creating welloiled operations, said industry executives. "I believe it's like a twoautoASIA | July-August 2016 | 37

Tata Motors aims to expand CV biz in South India

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ome-grown auto major Tata Motors is gearing up to expand its commercial vehicle business in South India, a stronghold of Ashok Leyland.

Home-grown auto major Tata Motors is gearing up to expand its commercial vehicle business in South India, a stronghold of Ashok Leyland, by adding 15 showrooms and 70 semi-mobile workshops.

The company, which at present has 34 dealers in four states in South India -- Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala -- is focusing on expanding network in smaller towns. "South India is a large market

for commercial vehicles as the road network is well developed in the region. As we are the market leaders in the country, it is important for us to strengthen our position in this market as well," Tata Motors Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, R Ramakrishnan told.

As part of the expansion plan, the company will improve its presence in towns with a population of around 50,000 in order to cater to the demand for its small commercial vehicles, like Ace and Magic.

"We are focusing on small commercial vehicle segment. We want to

penetrate in towns with population of around 50,000 with these small CVs," Ramakrishnan said. At present, North India leads in sales of commercial vehicles for Tata Motors, followed by western, south and eastern markets.

Hinduja flagship firm Ashok Leyland dominates the South Indian market.

In order to consolidate its presence in the region, Tata Motors is also looking at various measures, including modernising its dealerships and introducing semi-mobile workshops for its customers. "In order to cater to customers who own trucks, tippers and buses, we have come with semi-mobile workshops.

We have containers with tools and equipment, which could be moved to any area where our customer is located, Ramakrishnan said. Tata Motors has 55 such workshops in the region. "We plan to take this number to 125 in South India and nationally from 240 to 400 in near future," Ramakrishnan said.

Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company by revenue and had consolidated sales of Rs 2,60,734.33 crore in 2014-15. It sells a range of CVs, from Ace Zip to Prima range of heavy trucks

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 39

REIFEN Goes Automechanika Frankfurt TWO PREMIER GLOBAL FAIRS IN ONE PLACE

FROM 2018, MESSE ESSEN AND MESSE FRANKFURT JOINTLY STAGE PREMIER GLOBAL FAIR AS CO-LOCATED SHOW IN FRANKFURT

Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt (left), and Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, are adding another chapter to the cooperation with regard to the premier global fairs REIFEN and Automechanika: From September 11 to 15, 2018, Messe Essen and Messe Frankfurt will stage REIFEN in Frankfurt for the first time parallel to Automechanika in the new Hall 12.

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esse Essen and Messe Frankfurt are adding another chapter to the cooperation with regard to their premier global fairs REIFEN and Automechanika: From September 11 to 15, 2018, both the fair companies will stage REIFEN in Frankfurt for the first time parallel to Automechanika in the new Hall 12. In addition, exhibitors at REIFEN will profit from the international network of Automechanika with 14 other events in 13 countries at the moment: From then on, REIFEN will also take place there in parallel. After Messe Essen and Messe Frankfurt have already been collaborating successfully since 2014 and presenting REIFEN and Automechanika at selected locations abroad, the premier fairs will now move even closer together.

On the occasion of its 30th edition in 2018, REIFEN will tread new paths and highlight its role as a source of impetus for the sector. "Together with Messe Frankfurt, we are 40 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

bringing the tyre industry together with the automotive aftermarket and presenting its complete process chain. The exhibitors at REIFEN will reach even more visitors at the new location in Frankfurt parallel to Automechanika, including the international decision takers from the industry, the garages and the trade.

For the industry, there will be just this one date in Germany in the future," Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, commented on the benefits of the pioneering cooperation.

REIFEN and Automechanika Fair Brands Bundle Services and Know-How Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt, emphasised: "REIFEN is supplementing the portfolio of the world's leading fair brand Automechanika in an ideal way. We are offering the industry common dates and, for the trade and the garage sector, are bundling all the know-how and

services in one place. That applies to Frankfurt as well as to our 14 other Automechanika fairs worldwide. The decisive factor for our customers is: As a valuable supplement to the product range of Accessories & Customising where wheels and rims already have their place, we are making the subject of tyres a well-rounded matter."

we will then take the next step together with Messe Frankfurt and open up new subject fields and target groups for the tyre sector. The consolidation of a lot of participants in the market is in full swing. We are making the absolutely clear claim to be the decisive step ahead of any coming changes in the sense of our customers."

New Perspectives for the Tyre Trade at Automechanika Frankfurt

REIFEN and Automechanika: Two Premier Global Fairs Set the Tone

In the future, the visitors to REIFEN will be able to obtain comprehensive information about vehicle service in just one place in addition to their classical business. Amongst other subjects, this will include the equipment with installations and special tools as well as advice and diagnosis competence for employees in the car service sector.

Thus, Messe Essen is also fulfilling the wishes of many specialised tyre dealers: Their business model is in a state of upheaval - in total, the car tyre turnover per outlet has been declining substantially for several years. Car service is regarded as an additional business field of the future and Automechanika portrays it in a unique diversity and depth.

Frank Mertz, Sales Division Manager at Messe Essen, highlighted the trailblazer character of the two premier global fairs in one place: "The model of the classical tyre fair has functioned excellently in Essen over many decades and we will set standards in 2016, too. However,

REIFEN is the undisputed premier global fair and the meeting place for decision takers in the tyre sector.

Most recently, Messe Essen greeted 670 exhibitors from 45 nations as well as around 20,000 visitors from 130 countries. REIFEN is the only fair of its kind to portray the entire spectrum of the value added chain of the tyre: from the stage before production via manufacturing and trading right up to retreading and recycling. With 4,660 exhibitors from 74 countries and around 138,000 visitors from 176 nations, Automechanika Frankfurt also recently impressively confirmed its role as the premier international fair in the automobile sector and a magnet for the automobile world.

The trailer and further information about the co-located show and Automechanika: www.reifen-goes-automechanika.de http:// automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

MFGRS. OF AUTOMOTIVE REAR VIEW MIRRORS & HORNS FOR ALL TYPE OF TRUCKS, BUSES, TRACTORS, MOTORCYCLES, SCOOTERS AND AUTORICKSHAWS

PERFECT AUTO INDUSTRIES FARIDABAD, HARYANA

Automechanika Frankfurt To Feature ‘Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility’ In The ‘Festhalle’ For The First Time

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utomobile manufacturers, suppliers and start-ups will present future-oriented products and solutions from the fields of connectivity, alternative powertrains, autonomous cars, mobility services and smart data analytics.

The “Festhalle” of Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition Centre will be the hotspot for innovations at this year’s Automechanika Frankfurt with the subject of “Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility.” One of the highlights will be the world’s first fully electric ORTEN E 75 AT, a truck with a lightweight box body that, despite a 100-percent electrical powertrain, has a payload more than 30 percent greater than the standard, dieselpowered box-bodied vehicle. The new ORTEN ELECTRIC TRUCKS Business Unit is one of the start-ups that will make a presentation in the “Festhalle.” The company, which has its roots in traditional vehicle manufacturing, is cooperating with EFA-S Elektrofahrzeuge Stuttgart.

Other future-oriented products and solutions on display will include ZF Friedrichshafen with the Advanced Urban Vehicle, a concept car that demonstrates the potential inherent in intelligently linking individual chassis, drive and driver-assistance systems and represents an exemplary solution for individual urban transport in the small and compact segment. The Advanced Urban Vehicle is an example of the innovative potential of the joint ZF TRW company: electric steering – the steering wheel, sensors and rear camera come from the development department of the world’s leading safety specialists.

A market leader for spare-parts information and data-based 44 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

services, Eucon, is taking part in Automechanika for the first time and presenting its Aftermarket Intelligence Suite, a fully-integrated analysis tool for spare-parts prices.

Eucon has been supporting its customers since 1997 with the digitization and automation of business processes and revealing the huge potential of key technologies, such as big data and business analytics, for improved competitiveness and profitability.

Visitors also can look forward to new products from a variety of companies including Autop Maschinenbau, AVL DiTest, Bosch Car Multimedia Hildesheim, Conceito, Continental / ContiTech, Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst, Jaguar & Land Rover (Car to Car Communication) and Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket from Germany, as well as Brembo, Texa and Star Gas from Italy, IDLP Groupe, Lumileds France SAS (Philips) and OOCAR Sas from France, BVBA Federal-Mogul from Belgium, Elci Elektronik Kima San. Tic. Ltd from Turkey, OOO Pandora Trade from Russia, Hanyang Information & Communication from South Korea and Reduce Carbon Energy from Taiwan. In addition, visitors will have the chance to take a look at the “Workshop of the Future.”

For the first time, innovative products from all segments that have been selected for the Automechanika Innovation Award will be on display at a special exhibition in the “Festhalle.” The Automechanika Innovation Award is given in eight categories by an independent jury of experts and is a coveted distinction that has been presented at Automechanika Frankfurt since 1996. Exhibitors still have until the end of May to enter at innovationaward.automechanika.com.

The ‘Festhalle’ is also a presentation platform for young trailblazers and pioneers where creative start-ups and young innovative companies from Germany can show their promising ideas, products and solutions in a pavilion sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy (Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie – BMWi). Applications can be made at http://goo.gl/iCfqrO until 8 July.

For high potentials and young professionals looking for new challenges, Job & Career is the ideal platform for contacting and getting to know prospective employers.

Visitors wanting to experience the tomorrow’s mobility will have the opportunity to test-drive a variety of electric vehicles on a special track on the adjoining outdoor area.

Further information can be found at automechanika.com.

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 45

Indian vehicles are much louder than automobiles elsewhere in the world ALSO, A LOT OF VEHICULAR NOISE IS CAUSED BY AIR HORNS AND MULTI-TONED HORNS phenomenon and there's is no enforcement to penalize the errant," said Raman. "As per the Motor Vehicle Rules, multi-toned horns are not permitted to be fitted but due to lack of enforcement, such horns are readily available in the market."

Indeed, a recent National Green Tribunal order over the Dilip Nevatia case resulted in the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) proposing a much lower noise cutoff for multi-tone horns and sirens than allowed.

I

ndian vehicles are probably much louder than automobiles elsewhere in the world. According to auto industry experts, India's noise cutoff for horns at 93 decibel (dB), according to the Central Motor Vehicle Rule (CMVR) 119is in line with international standards, but the top end of the noise rangeat 112dB is higher.

Also, a lot of vehicular noise is caused by air horns and multi-toned horns, as TOI campaign in association with Awaaz Foundation has highlighted. The import or local production of these air horns is not controlled or monitored.

Auto experts say the 93-112dB horn noise level for vehicles in Indiameasured at a distance seven 46 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

metres from the position of a horn and at a height of 0.5 to 1.5 metreswas on par with EU standards until recently.

distance at 50kmph full throttle in second or thirdwhich can come from engine, powertrain, exhaust system or tyre rolling.

The "EU has recently revised this standard wherein the upper limit has been kept unaltered at 112dB but the lower limit has been revised to 87dB," said C V Raman, executive director, engineering, Maruti Suzuki.

CMVR 120 offers a cutoff of this, which varies from 80dB for petrol two-wheelers to 91dB for passenger and commercial vehicles above 12,000kg weight (see table). Then there is stationary noise for which there is currently a proposal for Indian regulations with 3.9dB as the cutoff.

"This, despite the fact that ambient noise in European cities in much lower than in India." Raman said the problem of horn noise was aggravated by frequent and unnecessary use of horns on Indian roads. Apart from honking, vehicular noise is measured in two categories.

There is vehicle passby noisemeasured at about 10 metre

Part of the problem of vehicular noise is also the use of multi-tone horns, which are not permitted on normal motor vehicles.

"After-market fitment of pressure/ multi-toned horns is a common

"The cutoff here was 10dB over vehicle engine noise but engine noise is not measured in India, only passby noise is," said a SIAM source. This not only created confusion over cutoff but also over permitted horn noise range. The trouble is 10dB over and above the passby cutoff (say 82 dB for cars) would be much lower than the 93112 dB range for vehicle horns right now.

The matter is now under consideration of an expert committee set up

by MPCB. Meanwhile, a draft notification for an Ambulance Code for sirens has been prepared by the ministry of road transport and highways where the range is 110120 dB.

Auto industry asks govt for rupee trade with African nations

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ndian automobile industry has approached the government to consider a rupee-based payment mechanism for trading with African nations as companies face a major hurdle in dollar-denominated payout.

The industry has also asked for negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) with more Latin American countries like Chile, Peru and Colombia to boost exports from the country.

"We have approached Ministry of Commerce for rupee trade with African countries as we are facing a challenge in dollar trade in these big export markets like Algeria and Nigeria," Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Deputy Director General Sugato Sen said.

These countries cannot make payments in dollars and that is impacting the trade with these nations, he added. "So we have asked the Commerce Ministry to negotiate rupee trade with these countries. It is a long term bilateral thing and these countries also need to study it," Sen said.

competition our position is getting eroded. So we are seeking FTAs with more countries in the continent," Sen said.

In the past few years there has been a clear shift in automobile exports from developed regions like EU to developing markets like Africa, Latin America and ASEAN region, he added. Automobile exports from India to Latin America stood at $91 million in 2004-5. It grew to $1,044 million in 2013-14. ASEAN, Africa and Latin America are the fastest growing markets for automobile exports from India since 2004-05.

However, the country's exports to SAARC nations have been declining which is a cause of worry, Sen said.

Of the total automobile exports of around $8.86 billion in 2015-16, Africa alone accounted for 30-35 per cent of the total overseas shipments in value terms. With issues like falling prices of crude and commodities, African countries are facing issues with dollar payments.

Countries like Algeria, Nigeria and Morocco are among the major export markets for domestic automobile industry. SIAM has also approached the Commerce Ministry for FTA's with more Latin American nations to safeguard exports to these markets.

"These countries are inking FTAs with various competitors like South Korea, Japan and the US and as a result due to the enhanced autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 47

Yamaha Ray-ZR scooter launched at Rs 52,000

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he Yamaha Ray-ZR is the fifth scooter offering from the Japanese two-wheeler giant for the Indian market. The Ray-ZR is also the first Yamaha scooter in India to get disc brake as an optional extra

which only testifies its strong product focus and market strategy.

We are excited to launch the new Cygnus Ray-ZR which is all set to rev many hearts among Indian customers.”

India Yamaha Motor expanded its scooter portfolio in the Indian market by launching the new Ray-ZR. The new scooter will be offered in two variants, standard and with disc brake. The Yamaha Ray-ZR standard variant has been priced at Rs 52,000 while the disc brake variant carries a sticker price of Rs 54,500 (both prices ex-showroom Delhi). The scooter was first showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi earlier this year. It is the second new product launch for Yamaha after the Saluto RX 110cc commuter bike that was launched last week. The Yamaha RayZR has a sporty styling and is targeted at young male riders with its edgy design language.

The Yamaha Ray-ZR is powered by the same 113cc air-cooled motor as seen on other scooters in the Yamaha India portfolio. The singlecylinder mill churns out 7.1PS at 7,500rpm while peak torque rating stands at 8.1Nm at 5,500rpm. The engine also features Yamaha’s patented “Blue Core” that improves

Speaking about the new scooter, Roy Kurian, VP-Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt. Ltd. said, “Out of the total demand of two wheelers in India, the scooter segment is soaring with 30% contribution to the sales and we are looking at 10% market share for this year. With Yamaha’s forte to cater to youngsters with its DNA of style, sportiness and innovation, the new Cygnus Ray-ZR will surely be a treat for real boys, especially among the ones particularly keen on style and technology. With the launch of the Fascino in 2015, Yamaha further witnessed a steep growth in sales, 48 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

combustion efficiency and the Japanese two-wheeler giant claims a mileage figure of 66kmpl for the new scooter. The Yamaha Ray-ZR tips the scale at just 103kg as the body panels are made from fibre.

Talking about features, the scooter gets a generous 21-litre under seat storage capacity and tubeless tyres. The new Yamaha Ray-ZR is also the first Yamaha scooter in India to offer front disc brake as an optional extra which is a good move owing to the better braking performance of disc brakes.

The standard variant gets drum brakes on both the wheels. Telescopic front forks and monoshock unit at the back take care of suspension duties. The Yamaha Ray-ZR is the fourth scooter from Yamaha for India which currently consists of Yamaha Ray Z (unisex), Yamaha Alpha (family scooter) and the stylish Fascino (female oriented) which has got off to a great start in the Indian market. The disc brake and the drum brake variant will be offered in two colour option.

Hyundai Creta Automatic Petrol launched at Rs 13.48 lakh

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automatic transmission will be available only on the SX+ variant, which is the one below the topspec SX (O) variant.

Hyundai seems to be leaving no stone unturned in order to cash in on the popularity of its compact SUV, the Creta. The car, launched last year, missed only the automatic petrol variant from its line-up till now.

But that gap has also been plugged with the recent launch of the new Hyundai Creta petrol automatic for a sticker price of Rs 13.48 lakh (exshowroom, Mumbai).

The company will also be introducing an automatic diesel option in the S+ mid-variant of the Creta. Up till now, the Creta was available with an automatic option only in the SX+ diesel model. The automatic petrol Creta will feature the same 6-speed automatic transmission as used on this diesel variant. Powering it, is the 1.6-litre four cylinder VTVT engine that churns out 123PS of maximum power and 150Nm of peak torque.

Though carried out in hushed tones, the launch will take effect immediately with Hyundai dealerships now accepting bookings across the country. For now however, the

In terms of features, the SX+ automatic petrol model gets projector headlamps, chrome grille, chrome door handles, smart key with push button start, automatic

or now, the automatic transmission will be available only on the Hyundai Creta SX+ variant, which is the one below the top-spec SX (O) variant.

climate control, electrically folding OVRMs and a rear viper. As for competition, only the Ford EcoSport gets the petrol automatic while even the Renault Duster’s AMT is restricted to its diesel variant. Other rivals, like the Mahindra Scorpio, the XUV500, and the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross, remain devoid of a petrol automatic but this move from Hyundai should pave way for such updates from other manufacturers too.

We had recently reported that the waiting period could rise up to 5 months.

Deliveries are expected to begin around the festive season later this year.

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 49

Tata Motors launches new ‘ULTRA’ Business Utility Vehicle in Kenya

U

ltra-premium cabin that’s

Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors

spacious, stylish and

said “At Tata Motors, the core

comfortable, with a new-

philosophy behind the launch of

generation instrument cluster, with

every new commercial vehicle is an

best-in-class NVH and convenient

endeavor to contribute to modern-

utility features

ize the market we cater to. The Tata ULTRA launched, is a result of

Ultra performance with a reliable Tata

extensive feedback from customers

engine, new generation transmis-

and an immersive study into the lives

sion, suitable for various applications

of drivers to better understand their expectations, and is thereby

Tata Motors, among the Top 10

designed to fast-track their

global truck and bus manufacturers,

businesses with superior all-round

has launched its next-generation

performance.

range of ULTRA Business Utility Vehicles, addressing customer

As a major player, we are committed

requirements in the light commercial

to shaping the industry here, with

vehicle segment. The Tata ULTRA is

the latest global technologies, giving

designed keeping in mind changing

the Kenyan customer competitive

customer needs, for a commercial

business advantages with the

vehicle based on superior perfor-

trusted credentials of the Tata

mance, with a comfortable world-

Motors brand.” Mr. Rudrarup Maitra,

class cabin, heavy-duty aggregates

Head-Commercial Vehicles

and multiple load-body configura-

International Business, Tata Motors

tions, offering customers the Tata

said, “With Tata ULTRA, Tata Motors

Motors advantage of increased

has taken another step forward in its

productivity and longer life. Be it for

transformation journey, reaffirming

large captive users, transporters or

the company’s customer centric

owner-drivers, the Tata ULTRA offers

approach of offering next-genera-

the lowest overall cost of owner-

tion commercial vehicles solutions

ship, safety and offers multiple

to its customers especially in Middle

features, setting new performance

East and African markets. Having

benchmarks in the light commercial

successfully launched Tata Prima

vehicle segment in Kenya.

range of trucks in East Africa and South Africa last year, we hope to

The Tata ULTRA can cater to payloads

repeat the same with ULTRA. We are

ranging 4 to 11 tonnes and engine

very excited with the buzz Tata Ultra

capacities from 125 HP to 180 HP.

has created during the trials in Kenya.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ravi

An important product from the Tata

Pisharody, Executive Director,

Motors commercial vehicle

50 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

portfolio, with ULTRA we hope to

Kenya and the East Africa region.

consolidate our position in the light-

Tata ULTRA will help us to address a

duty commercial vehicle space here

larger commercial vehicle base and

in Kenya.”

also enable customers upgrade to a new-age truck with new-age global

Mr. Naresh Leekha, Regional Head

specification.” ULTRA COMFORT,

East Africa of Tata Africa Holdings

ULTRA STYLE & ULTRA PERFOR-

Ltd said, “The Tata ULTRA is a true

MANCE The ULTRA offers faster

Business Utility vehicle in every sense

turnaround time and enhanced

and is an important milestone in Tata

profitability for any goods carrying

Africa’s continued expansion in

business, making it an ideal work

horse for movement of materials

weight, offering superior perfor-

like Driving Economy Indicator and

for the fitment of various accessories

across distances. The driveline of

mance and greater fuel efficiency for

Water in Fuel Indicator. The gear lever

including a music system, air

Tata ULTRA launched has Tata’s

varied payloads. The new generation

is dashboard mounted, a unique

conditioning and Global Positioning

proven engine technology –TATA

cabin of Tata ULTRA offers com-

feature in this class of commercial

System (GPS) tracking. The design of

497 TCIC engine, with an output of

pletely new stylized interiors, with a

vehicles.

the cabin helps give the driver

125 HP. A new-generation transmis-

focus on driver comfort and safety.

The cabin has ample amount of

benchmark levels of visibility, safety

sion with aluminum casing – the G-

Besides the mechanics of the

space for the occupant, including a

and driving comfort. The trucks get

550 six-speed gear-box with

vehicle, the uniqueness of the Tata

3-way adjustable driver’s seat with

3 years or 2 lakh km warranty –

overdrive, with cable-shift mecha-

ULTRA is that its cockpit is both

arm rests, an adjustable power

whichever is earlier – and come in 3

nism (a first-of-its-kind in Kenya) and

functional and attractive. The smartly

steering system, for best possible

colours – Arctic White, Arizona Blue

axle technology, with reduced

designed dashboard offers features

control in all conditions, provisions

and Sardinia Red.

autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 51

Tata Motors and Vetri Motors OPEN NEW 3S COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FACILITY IN MADURAI celebrating 25 years with the launch of Vetri Motors here in Tamil Nadu.

Having established itself as one of the most trusted business houses in Tamil Nadu, we hope to extend relationship to the Tata Motors customers here in the Tamil, with this state-of-the-art sales, service and spares facility.”

At the new Tata Motors’ dealership in Madurai, customers can experience a host of primary and valueadded services for Tata Motors’ commercial vehicles. This new facility in Madurai, offers a contemporary-styled, hub for Sales, Service and Spare Parts and is spacious, for a comfortable buying experience.

The dealership is also equipped with mobile workshops for 24x7 customer support. The dealership also has a resting facility for drivers.

At Vetri Motors customers can also avail of financing options, loyalty programs, including full service contracts for an enhanced service experience.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS: New 3S facility in Madhurai for Sales, Service and Spares spread over 4,000 square meters 24 x 7 customer support, with full-loaded mobile service vans Availability of financing, insurance and loyalty programs, including service contracts Exclusive Customer Lounge / resting facility for Drivers

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ata Motors and Vetri Motors inaugurated a new modern 4000 square meter 3S facility here in Madurai, that will provide customers with a complete experience of sales, service and spares, all under one roof. The new 52 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

partnership will cater to the customers of Madurai, Dindigul, Theni & Virudhnagar districts of Tamil Nadu with the Tata Motors full range of commercial vehicles.

Located strategically in Madurai and spread over 4,000 square meters on NH 7 bypass, the new 3S facility will have 8 workshop bays, in addition to 2 accident bays staffed by professionally trained technicians, with a capacity to handle about 30 vehicles a day. The facility is also well equipped with amenities like dedicated express service bays, driver and technician rest rooms, an environmental friendly effluent treatment system, a rain-water harvesting system, Wi-Fi connectivity and vehicle display areas. Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Ravi Pisharody, Executive Director,

Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors Ltd. said, “At Tata Motors we are currently redesigning our network across the country, as part of our larger business plan, to improve our engagement and build stronger, lasting relationships with our customers. Our partnership with Vetri Motors is a step in that direction, with established credential and years of experience in the automotive market here in Tamil Nadu. As the 13th Tata Motors commercial vehicle dealer here in Tamil Nadu, we are delighted to partner with them in further strengthening our presence here in the South and wish Verti Motors all the very best.”

Mr. Tamil Selvam, Managing Director, Vetri Motors, said “The Vetri Group was established in 1991 and is

About Tata Motors Tata Motors Limited is India’s largest automobile company, with consolidated revenues of INR 2,75,561 crores (USD 41.6 billion) in 2015-16. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand, 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 9 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top in passenger vehicles. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, Australia, CIS and Russia.

Successful year for Gothenburg’s electric bus service

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fter one year of electric bus service on route 55 in Gothenburg, it is clear that the expectations have been surpassed by a wide margin. The buses and bus stops received a high rating by passengers and drivers alike, and the technology worked very dependably. Over the past year the service has carried about 1.2 million passengers. In time for the first anniversary of the electric bus route, global ICT provider Ericsson is now joining the ElectriCity partnership.

Traffic on route 55 in Gothenburg began in June 2015 and the green electric buses soon became a common sight on the urban scene.

Today the route between Chalmers and Lindholmen carries an average of 100,000 passengers a month.

Surveys conducted by the ElectriCity partners reveal that both passengers and drivers appreciate the new electric bus route and that the vehicles, charging infrastructure and bus stops more than meet the highest expectations. According to Public Transport Authority Västtrafik, passengers are generally very satisfied with the service.

The fact that the buses run on renewable electricity is regarded favourably, and the bus stops at Chalmersplatsen and Teknikgatan are rated very highly. About 80 per cent of passengers appreciate the free WiFi on board, and no less than 93 per cent feel that the low on-board noise level is a great benefit.

Measurements carried out by Volvo

confirm these perceptions and show considerable differences in noise between diesel and electric power, both inside and outside the buses, particularly at low speeds.

Surveys carried out by bus operator Keolis show that the bus drivers also feel the low noise level is one of the biggest advantages of electric power, both because it contributes to a better working environment and because it is appreciated by the passengers.

The fact that the buses are equipped with zone management which automatically limits speed in certain areas is regarded as positive and boosts safety. Route 55 is not only Gothenburg’s first route serviced by electric buses, it is above all an arena for showcasing the latest technologies and for developing emerging solutions.

That is why the programme is being studied very thoroughly. The latest vehicle and charging infrastructure statistics from Volvo, Keolis and Västtrafik show that the results are on a par with or have exceeded the targets for charging function, punctuality and service provision.

“These excellent results show that the technology for electrified bus operations is ripe for more broadbased introduction.

Electric power offers new possibilities for cities to transition public transport in a sustainable direction, promoting safer traffic and a healthier environment with less noise and autoASIA | July-August 2016 | 53

better air quality,” says Niklas Gustafsson, Chief Sustainability Officer, Volvo Group.

The immense interest in route 55 is confirmed by visitor statistics from Business Region Göteborg. So far more than 100 delegations totalling

54 | July-August 2016 | autoASIA

almost 5500 participants from cities the world over have visited Gothenburg to see how the cooperative electromobility project and its traffic operation actually work in practice. Just in time for the electric bus route’s first anniversary, global ICT (information and

communications technology) provider Ericsson is joining the ElectriCity partnership.

“The buses running on route 55 are already connected to our platform allowing developers controlled access to data to build smart applications,” says Orvar Hurtig,

Head of Industry & Society at Ericsson. “Now we’re taking the next step as a partner in ElectriCity.

It’s an exciting project in which we, together with the other partners, will be able to develop and test sustainable transport solutions for smart cities – in real life.” -