India-made Volkswagen Polo to be exported to Mexico

• Volkswagen India has now started exporting the new Polo to Mexico. The new Polo 1.6 Highline is the second VW car made in India to be sold in the North American country and this expansion in export activities comes exactly a year after the company started exporting Ventos to Mexico from the Pune plant. In fact, these export versions of the Vento and the Polo together account for nearly every second car produced at the plant.

• “With successful entry in Mexico last year with our Vento, we set an example of world-class quality being manufactured in India. With further expansion into the Polo segment, we have reiterated the fact that we are able to manufacture top products through our Indian operations.” He added further, “We build the same quality of cars in Pune as around the world with equally robust construction. The Polo built in India has achieved a four-star Global NCAP rating, which is a strength when it comes to exporting to global markets,” said Mahesh Kodumudi, president and MD, Volkswagen India.
• Volkswagen India started exporting cars from its Pune plant in 2011, with the initial market being South Africa. Since then, export operations have expanded to over 32 countries across three continents of Asia, Africa and North America.
•The range of cars being exported includes left-hand drive as well as right-hand drive cars. Additionally, Volkswagen India also exports parts and components of its cars to Malaysia, which are assembled there for the Malaysian domestic market. Volkswagen’s Pune plant has produced over 89,000 cars for export till date.

Sportier Maruti Ciaz coming next year

• Maruti launched the Honda City rival, the Ciaz, back in October this year. It was launched in four trims namely, V, V+, Z and Z (O). Now Maruti is readying a sportier version of the Ciaz, which may sit at top of the range. Just like the successful Swift RS, which comes with a body kit and special paint, Maruti will be launching a similar-specced Ciaz, which could be called the Ciaz RS.

• This variant will be based on the upcoming Ciaz Z+ trim, which the carmaker had announced will join Ciaz's line-up next year. The new top trim will come with a touchscreen infotainment system and all the features and fitments available on the current top trim, Ciaz Z (O). The Z(O) gets 16-inch alloys, instead of the standard 15-inchers on the Z trim, and full leather upholstery instead of the part-fabric part-leather upholstery.
• When the sportier Ciaz variant and the Z+ trim go on sale in 2015, it will give it a slight edge over its closest rival the Honda City, which comes with an audio system with a 5-inch display unit on the top trims sans the touchscreen. This move by Maruti may also prompt Honda to launch a sportier-looking City with exterior tweaks, just like the Mobilio RS.
• As far as Ciaz sales go, things finally seem to be falling into place - the Ciaz outsold the Honda City in October, the first month of its launch. Maruti has delivered 6,345 units of the Ciaz, while Honda sold only 5,120 units of the City in October.

2016 Jaguar F-type to get manual, AWD option

• Jaguar has finally confirmed details of the new 14-model line up of the 2016 F-type, which will now include the option of a manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive model for the first time.

• With this, the F-type will become the first Jaguar sports car since the E-type to get a manual gearbox. The new six-speed gearbox is called the Quickshift, and will be available only in conjunction with the F-type's supercharged V6 engine. The “short-travel” gearlever is said to have a throw of just 45mm and “closely spaced ratios”.
• Jaguar says, the gearbox was developed in association with ZF, and uses an aluminium casing and “innovative semi-dry sump lubrication system”. It has a rod linkage between the lever and selector forks for “the most direct connection”.
• The F-type’s centre console has also been reshaped to allow for maximum free movement of the driver’s arm.
• Jaguar says that rather than “the usual splash lubrication”, the new gearbox gets a compact mechanical pump that is driven off the layshaft and sprays oil on to the gear teeth, bearings and synchroniser rings. This has reduced oil capacity to just 1.2 litres, which, in turn, has allowed a small ’box casing.
• The new manual ’box will be offered with the V6 in both 335bhp and 375bhp forms.
• Jaguar has also confirmed an all-wheel-drive variant of the F-type sports car to market for the first time. In top-end R coupé form, the AWD F-type is capable of reaching 97kph in 3.9sec – an improvement of 0.2sec on the standard rear-wheel-drive car – while keeping the same 299kph top speed.
• The expanded F-type range will include the current standard, S and R-badged models in both coupé and convertible forms. The updates see the convertible get a V8 R version for the first time. It gets the same 3.9sec 0-97ph time as the coupé, despite the increased weight of the folding roof.
• The 2016 F-type will also switch to electrically assisted power steering from hydraulic assistance, a first for a Jaguar. The company says the new system is the first that, its engineers feel, outperforms its existing steering systems. It is also responsible for a CO2 reduction of 4g/km.
• The F-type will also get a torque vectoring system as standard. It will improve the car's agility by reducing the power to a wheel in case of a loss of traction.
• A new version, powered by a high-performance four-cylinder petrol engine from Jaguar Land Rover's new Ingenium range, is also likely.
• Jaguar officials had previously been coy about the prospect of introducing an AWD version of the F-type, but such versions of the existing XF and XJ models have been a sales success in the US market.
• Jaguar vehicle line director Ian Hoban said: "Our target with engineering the all-wheel-drive F-type was to maintain the engaging rear-drive character that’s so important to Jaguar sports cars, yet offer even greater dynamic capability.
• "The result is a controllable, exploitable and blisteringly fast performance car in all weather and road conditions."
• Prices for the manual F-type start at £51,250 (approximately Rs 49.71 lakh) for the standard V6-powered car in coupé form, while AWD options stars at £66,900 (approximately Rs 64.89 lakh) for the V6 S coupé.

Indian Grand Prix may return in 2016

• The Indian Grand Prix is expected to return in 2016 as a 'fruitful' meeting between Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone and race promoters has prepared the ground for the comeback of the high-profile event.

• The meeting was held on the sidelines of the inaugural Russian Grand Prix in Sochi, last month.
• The Indian Grand Prix was dropped from the 2014 calendar after three races, owing to tax and bureaucratic hurdles. The 2015 calendar has already been finalised and it is confirmed that the race won't return for next year.
• The issues surrounding the Grand Prix remain but Ecclestone-led Formula One Management (FOM) and race promoters Jaypee Sports International (JPSI), headed by Sameer Gaur, first want to honour the five-year contract and then work on securing the long-term future of the event.
• "We (Sameer and I) had a good meeting in Russia. I was assured that the tax and other related problems will be sorted out in due course and then we are good to go back. It is too late for 2015 now, so we are working on 2016," Ecclestone told PTI from his London office.
• Gaur, on his part, said, "Formula One remains very important for us. Unfortunately, because of the circumstances, we could not do the race this year but I see the situation improving soon. The important thing is that we and FOM are on the same page. 2015 looks tough as the calendar is more or less final, so we should look at 2016 as the year for the race."
• Only time will tell how Ecclestone accommodates India on the crowded F1 calendar. 2015 will see 20 races with the return of Mexico and the number could go up to a seemingly undoable 22 in 2016 if India and Azerbaijan both manage to host the F1 circus.

Audi Prologue concept revealed at LA Auto Show 2014

• Audi has unveiled its ‘Prologue’ concept car at the LA motor show. The svelte concept previews the exterior styling treatment, advanced interior features, contemporary driveline technology and various chassis developments set to be adopted by its future generation of production models, and is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine developing 597bhp.

• The big four-seater showcases a progressive new exterior and interior design lineage developed by a team of in-house designers working under new Audi design boss, Marc Lichte – the talented German designer credited with the look of many existing Volkswagen models, including the latest Polo, Golf and Passat.  

• Said to closely resemble the upcoming Audi A9 – a plush new flagship coupe planned to be launched in 2016 as a rival to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-class coupé, the new Audi concept also sheds light on developments set to be adopted on the fourth-generation A8, including a new 48-volt electrical system and four-wheel steer system.
• Distinguished by its taut surfacing, prominent shoulder line, crisp crease lines and finely honed detailing, the prologue possesses an elegant yet muscular look that Lichte hints will be reflected throughout the Audi line-up in future years.  
• According to Audi chiefs, about 80 percent of the concept's design will filter down into production vehicles. Three production cars based on the concept have been decided and will appear in the next two or three years. The design of the next A4 and A6, for example, have already been frozen and incorporate elements of this new design language.

 

New Bentley Grand Convertible concept unveiled

• Bentley has unveiled its new Grand Convertible concept just prior to the Los Angeles motor show.

• The car, which Bentley claims is its “most sophisticated open-top car ever created”, is powered by the same 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine as the Mulsanne and Mulsanne Speed. The V8 engine makes 530bhp and 112.1kgm of torque - that's as much as the Mulsanne Speed. In that car, the engine is capable of achieving the 0-100kph sprint in 4.9 seconds.

• This Grand Convertible concept could also be a direction for a new convertible version of Bentley's Mulsanne. Such a model has long been mooted, and Bentley boss Wolfgang Dürheimer showed a concept car to potential customers at the Pebble Beach in 2012.
• This Grand Convertible concept features unique paintwork and a ‘liquid metal’ finish to the bonnet and windscreen frame on the outside, while the cabin boasts leather upholstery.

New Mini Cooper launched at Rs 31.85 lakh

• BMW has launched the new, third-generation Mini in India starting at Rs 31.85 lakh for the three-door Cooper D. Alongside the three-door, there's a new five-door body style too, offered for the first time by Mini at a price of Rs 35.20 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom, India).

• These new models are also larger and more spacious than the outgoing Minis. Both the three-door and five-door Minis have been made available only in Cooper D (diesel) guise as of now. The petrol powered Cooper S is expected to arrive in our showrooms in the first quarter of next year.
• The diesel engine is all-new, a 1.5-litre twin turbo unit that delivers 114bhp and 27.5kgm of torque and sends power to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. The powertrain is shared by the three-door and five-door versions. Mechanically, the third-gen car sits on the new UKL platform, gets a new front suspension and also, a revised rear suspension set-up. 
• In terms of design, on the outside, there are some new elements like the bulbous and prominent nose, contrasting roof, and some decals. The cabin retains its retro-ness with a number of circular surfaces and toggle switches. The speedometer has been moved back to behind the steering wheel, while the big central screen takes pride of place on the dashboard.

BMW plotting hydrogen fuelled i5

• BMW has plans to put use a variation of Toyota’s hydrogen-electric fuel cell system in a future model, likely to carry the i5 name. The fuel cell system from Toyota is the same that runs the recently-named Mirai.

• According to sources, German carmakers are working to put a hydrogen fuel cell car in the market, since Japanese companies Honda and Toyota have already taken the initiative. The powertrain sharing is the first stage of a BMW-Toyota joint venture aimed at lowering development costs and providing improved economies of scale on advanced alternative drive systems shared between the two manufacturers. A second project, to build a rear-drive sports car platform is also said to be well under way.
• BMW’s ‘i’ sub-brand already has the electric i3 hatchback and the petrol-electric hybrid i8 sports car; the introduction of a hydrogen-electric fuel cell-powered i5 will provide it with a trio of alternative-energy vehicles, each offering a different form of propulsion. 
• It will also equip BMW with an answer to a hydrogen fuel cell-powered Mercedes-Benz B-class, which is likely to head into small-scale production, and will be offered to customers through official sales channels in selected markets in 2017. Audi is also expected to reveal a hydrogen-powered A7 at the Los Angeles motor show, suggesting that it is also preparing to jump into the fuel cell fray.

Toyota's new fuel cell vehicle is called Mirai

• Toyota has revealed the official name of its fuel cell vehicle. What was previously known simply as FC-V, will now be called Mirai, which means 'future' in Japanese. The Toyota Mirai has the cruising range of a conventional car, can be refueled quickly and emits only water vapour.

• “This is a car that lets you have it all with no compromises. Today, we are at a turning point in automotive history. A turning point where people will embrace a new, environment-friendly car that is also a pleasure to drive. A turning point where a four-door sedan can travel 480km on a single tank of hydrogen, can be refueled in under five minutes, and emits only water vapour,” said Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota.
• Toyota has also said that the Mirai has undergone extensive testing on the track and on public roads; it has also been through harsh and extreme temperatures and passed extensive crash tests. Toyoda also added, “Our fuel cell vehicle runs on hydrogen that can be made from virtually anything, even garbage. It has a fuel cell that creates enough electricity to power a house for about a week.”
• The Toyota Mirai has also been built to have a low centre of gravity, which lends it dynamic handling, thus looking to appease the enthusiasts too. Toyota also claims to have worked with researchers to help make sure the Mirai is easy and convenient to refuel. “We believe that behind the wheel of the Mirai, we can go places we have never been, to a world that is better, in a car that is better.” concluded Toyoda. 

Hydrogen-powered Honda FCV unveiled

• Honda has unveiled a new Fuel Cell Vehicle concept in Japan which is expected to hit Japanese showrooms by March 2016. Honda plans to launch the model in North America and European markets as well in future.

• This FCV, is a successor to Honda’s first Hydrogen fuel-cell powered offering, the FCX Clarity and was last seen as an early-stage concept at the LA Auto show last year. The Honda FCV looks closer to production and has shed come of the concept styling bits as seen in the model shown last year, most notably its rear-wheel covers.
• The FCV is powered by an electric motor which is good for more than 134bhp, while the power density has been upped by 60 percent over that of its predecessor, the FCX. The FCV’s fuel stack size has also been reduced by a good 33 percent.

• Honda has earlier claimed that the FCV is the first vehicle of its type to feature an entire fuel-cell powertrain packaged within its engine bay. Honda says, the FCV should give a driving range of around 482km and can be re-fuelled from hydrogen filling station in 3-5 minutes.
• The FCV will face competition from Toyota's own fuel-cell vehicle, which carries the Mirai name and will arrive in Europe next summer, as well as Hyundai's hydrogen-powered ix35.

Los Angeles Auto show 2014 preview

• The Los Angeles auto show is one of the better known automobile fairs in the world, and the 2014 show is just around the corner. Last year, it was witness to the likes of the Porsche Macan and the Jaguar F-type coupé. Here’s a list of some of the interesting models from various marques that are expected at the Los Angeles show this year.

Audi

• A track-bred iteration of the Audi R8, the R8 Competition claims to be the “fastest R8 ever offered”. It has a claimed 0-100kph sprint time of 3.2 seconds, while reaching a claimed topspeed of 320kph. Understandably, over the standard R8, this uprated version is focused on aerodynamics and makes use of lightweighting materials. Audi will also be showcasing the A9 concept. As the name suggests, the car is destined to sit at the top of the Audi range. It is also expected to reveal the design language that Audi will adopt in the near future.

BMW

• BMW will be unveiling a pair from its ‘M’ performance wing. The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are the second generation of the high-performance SUVs sold in international markets. Both get power from a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine, that makes 564bhp and 76.5kgm of torque, and comes mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Both cars also boast of new prominent cosmetic elements and aggressive designing.

Cadillac

• The American carmaker will be showcasing the ATS-V coupé. The car looks to take on the likes of the BMW M4 and the Audi RS5. The ATS-V coupé gets a 3.6-litre twin-turbo V6 unit along with some aggressive styling to go with the performance aura.

Chrysler

• Chrysler will be unveiling updated versions of its 300 and 300C sedans that it sells in the US markets. Not much information is available about the models, but it includes styling tweaks inside and out.

Fisker

• Former Aston Martin design chief Henrik Fisker has founded the Fisker brand. A muscle car from Fisker, called Rocket, is expected at the show. It has collaborated with American Galpin Auto Sports to create a model that mixes muscle car and sports coupé lines.

Ford

• Ford will have two models at the Los Angeles auto show. The Explorer SUV sold in the overseas markets gets an updated version. Although details are sparse, the SUV gets new designing, more off-roading capability and more driver-assist technology. Ford will also put on display a new version of the Mustang. It is reportedly a special version of the legendary Mustang GT 350. It is expected to be powered by a 400-plus bhp version of the standard car’s 5.0-litre V8 engine.

Jaguar

• All-wheel-drive version of the Jaguar F-type is expected to break cover at Los Angeles. Both the V6- and V8-engined variants are likely to be equipped with the AWD system. Jaguar’s XF and XJ models with AWD have been quite successful in international markets, and the British brand won’t be wrong to bet big on the F-type’s AWD version too. Test mules of the F-type have also been spotted internationally, and they are rumored to be the new AWD versions. 

Lexus LF-C2

• An open-top concept from Lexus, the LF-C2 looks a lot like the RC coupé, which made its debut at the Tokyo motor show last year. All other details are still undisclosed.

Mazda

• Mazda is expected to show off the facelifted versions of the CX-5 crossover and the 6 sedan. The cars get cosmetic tweaks inside and out. The CX-5 also gets a new infotainment system, while the Mazda 6’s motors get economy and emission improvements. Mazda will also unveil the new CX-3 compact crossover. In terms of designing, the CX-3 gets the brand “Kodo - Soul of Motion” design language; power will come from Mazda’s Skyactiv engine range.

Mercedes

• Mercedes has planned a couple of unveilings at Los Angeles. The only confirmed one though is a new Maybach version of the S-class. The return for the super-luxury Maybach brand will be in the form of a longer-wheelbase version of the S600. It is also expected to come with more luxury features. Power is expected to come from a retuned version of Merc's twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine. 

Porsche

• One of the models confirmed for a Los Angeles unveiling is the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS. This range-topping Carrera will use the same engine as the Carrera S, but the 3.8-litre unit has been tuned to deliver more than the 424bhp that it makes in the S. It does a 0-100kph in a claimed 4 seconds, and reaches a claimed topspeed of 306kph.
• Porsche will also be showing its exclusive model – the Panamera Turbo S Executive Exclusive. Production of the luxurious long-wheelbase model has been restricted to 100 units. It gets a new unique paintjob, new alloys, new leather upholstery and a new infotainment system for rear passengers.
• Also in Porsche's stand will be the new Cayenne and the Cayenne GTS. Power to the GTS comes from a 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 434bhp.

Toyota

• After being showcased at the recent Paris motor show, Toyota will reveal the interiors of its FC-V concept. It is Toyota’s hydrogen-powered car, and boasts of an advanced powertrain and futuristic styling. 

Rolls-Royce Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé unveiled

• As a tribute to the Maharajas of India and their attraction to its luxurious models, Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé.

• As the name suggests, the car is based on the Phantom Drophead Coupé. It was unveiled in Dubai, and has been created specifically for the Dubai market.

• It gets bespoke cosmetic enhancements which include a white paint shade on the outside, subtle works inside and out that depict a peacock, India’s national bird. In typical Rolls-Royce style, a lot of attention has also been paid to intricate detailing on the upholstery and trims in the cabin. The retractable top is green, in contrast to the white colour of the car.

Mercedes reveals next-gen LED headlights

• Mercedes has developed the next generation of its existing LED headlights. What is currently a 24 LED unit in the CLS will soon hold upto 84 LEDs, and provide far better illumination.

• Mercedes also confirmed plans to use high-range LED high beams along with their LED units in the near future. It claims to illuminate over 600m, and not distract oncoming vehicles.
• "Enabling ideal visibility in all driving situations without dazzling other road users has always been our credo in developing new light systems," said Uwe Kostanzer, head of light systems development at Mercedes-Benz. “We are pursuing the further development of LED technology to this end.”

Waiting period for Tata Zest up at six months

• The Zest, Tata Motors' new compact sedan and its first product under the 'Horizonnext' strategy, has a waiting period of up to six months for some of its variants.

• The long waiting period for Zest variants can be attributed to a supply constraint from some of the vendors and an inadequate production capacity. "The fact of the matter we are not able to produce as much as the market needs. Supply is much lesser than demand," says Mayank Pareek, president, passenger vehicles business unit, Tata Motors told.
• The carmaker is also in the process of increasing production of its compact sedan. Pareek says, over 10,000 units of the Zest have been sold since its launch in mid-August. The company is also seeing stronger demand for the petrol variant of the Zest.
• Pareek was speaking at the company's quarterly results press conference in Mumbai. Tata Motors has reported a 6.5 percent growth in its consolidated revenue. and a 7.1 percent drop in profit after tax during the July-September 2014 quarter compared to the same period last year. The company's revenue stood at Rs 60,564 crore, while its profit after tax was Rs 3,291 crore. The company says that weak operating environment in the standalone business was more than offset by an increase in the wholesale volumes, richer product mix and market mix at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).  

Audi A4 Premium Sport edition launched at Rs 39.95 lakh

• Audi has added a new variant to its A4 sedan line-up called the Audi A4 Premium Sport. The new Audi A4 Premium Sport is the new-mid variant, and sits below the A4 Technology pack trim and above the A4 Premium variant.

• The Audi A4 Premium Sport gets new 20-spoke 17-inch alloys, and a new front bumper and chin to differentiate it from the standard A4. The interiors are all black as compared to the dual-tone layout in the standard A4. It also comes with a carbon-black styling package which includes black wing mirrors, window sills and a black door moulding. The A4 Premium Sport is available only in two paint shades, red and white. 
• The Audi A4 Premium Sport is priced at RS 39.95 lakh (Ex-showroom, Mumbai) 

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport auto launched at Rs 23.55 lakh

• Mitsubishi has launched the Pajero Sport Automatic in India at Rs 23.55 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The new automatic variant of the Pajero Sport is available in 4x2 variant. It sits below the top-of-the-line 4x4 variant in the Pajero lineup.

• Power is drawn from the same 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel that makes 175.5bhp and 35.7kgm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic gearbox that can also be controlled using paddle-shifters lodged behind the steering wheel.
• On the inside, top trim of the Pajero Sport automatic will get features like automatic climate control, reverse parking camera and an infotainment system.
• The Pajero Sport automatic takes on the automatic variants of the Toyota Fortuner and the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Aston Martin Lagonda unveiled

• The Aston Martin Lagonda has been finally unveiled. It will be called Lagonda Taraf when it goes on sale in the Middle East. The car was officially unveiled at an event in Dubai recently.

• The British carmaker has left options open to bring the Lagonda to other markets as well. Aston Martin boss Andy Palmer said, “It is clear from the initial reaction to the car that interest from around the world is extremely high, and I can confirm today that we are also evaluating the opportunity to offer this Lagonda in other markets.”
• Previously, a near production-ready model was photographed undergoing final testing in Oman. It draws power from the naturally aspirated 5.9-litre V12 engine that also does duty in the Rapide S. In the Rapide, the V12 makes 550bhp and 63.2kgm of torque, granting a 0-100kph time of less than 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 306kph.

New Bentley Continental to use Porsche's MSB platform

• Bentley will use the Porsche-developed MSB platform on some of its future products. There was a good relationship between the two brands, and that it is a big chance for Bentley to improve their products further.

• The new platform, to be engineered by Porsche, should give Bentley much more focused driving dynamics. It should also do away with the nose-heavy weight distribution that hampers the dynamics of the current Continental family. This will be achieved by replacing the current car’s front transaxle with a system that passes drive to the front wheels via a ‘quill’ shaft driven from the rear of the transmission.
• The MSB platform with an advanced material design, uses high aluminium content and a percentage of materials such as magnesium to keep the weight balanced throughout the body, thus improving the driving dynamics.
• The system used in today’s Panamera allows a four-wheel drive system to be combined with an motor mounted farther back in the engine bay for superior dynamic balance. The more sophisticated MSB platform, with its high aluminium content, also offers Bentley the chance to design a roomier Flying Spur sedan, equipped with every luxury add-on, yet without a significant increase in the kerb weight.
• Most importantly, Bentley gets access to the all-new Porsche petrol V8. Potentially, this clears the way for much sportier Continental Speed models to address one of the weaknesses of the top-end Continental models compared with rivals.

Top five bikes at EICMA 2014

• The EICMA show brought some of the most technologically advanced, creatively designed motorcycles, besides some of the most radical concepts. This year was the 100th iteration of what is called the most in-depth cross section of all things motorcycle. We list down our top five picks from the show.

Kawasaki H2

• The Kawasaki H2R was showcased a while back at the INTERMOT, and the road legal version, the H2 has now been showcased at the EICMA. The H2 carries a similar in-line four cylinder engine, albeit tuned to be suitable for street use. The air-intake and exhausts meet emission and noise level standards, while it also carries street legal running gear. The H2R made headlines with a claimed wild-300bhp power output when it was revealed, and the retuned mill on the H2 makes 210bhp with its supercharged engine, allegedly making it the fastest accelerating production bike in the world.

2015 Yamaha R1 and Yamaha R1M

• The Yamaha R1 has been refreshed by the Japanese manufacturer, and it comes with performance and styling upgrades. Some of the changes include a redesigned engine, which is lighter and produces approximately 17.75bhp over the outgoing model, bumping up the power output to 197.3bhp. The new design focuses on increased air intake and lesser power loss.

• Yamaha has also added the R1M to its lineup, which is the track focused version of the R1. This iteration uses ÖHLINS electronically-controlled suspension, lightweight highly textured carbon fairing, data-logging functionality that records riding conditions, and track focused tyres. The electronic racing suspension can be controlled by the SCU (suspension control unit), which supports integrated control of the front and rear based on information from the IMU and sensors.

Honda RC213V-S concept

• The Honda Fireblade is only getting minor upgrades this year, and brings the rather humble 178bhp engine to the table, where rivals such as Yamaha and Kawasaki are boasting much higher figures. Honda has secured some reputation for itself at the MotoGP, with their ace rider Marc Marquez taking the trophy home this year. The Honda showcase had the RC213V-S concept, which is essentially the track racer with some bits of street legal gear such as mirrors and turn indicators. This however, gives us no more than a hope that this V4 engine might make its way to the production lines.

Ducati 1299 Panigale

• At the heart of the matter, is where Ducati seems to concentrating. The Audi-owned Italian motorcycle brand added a new Panigale to its super-lineup. The engine capacity on this motorcycle has been bumped up to 1285cc, a slight increase from the outgoing model. This engine, however, is now claimed to make 205bhp, raising the bar for everyone else to match. The original 1199 Panigale will still be sold beside the two 1299 Panigale and 1299 Panigale S models, as the race-spec version with track focused gear making its way to the motorcycle.

Matchless Model X

• Featuring a V-twin engine, a 12-piston caliper brake system, and lots and lots of shiny surfaces, the Matchless claims that they have 12 patents on the Model X. Some of the patents that they hold include easily adjustable seats, footpegs, and handlebars. The original Model X was built between 1929 and 1940 by the British brand. The bespoke 1916cc engine is fuel injected, and the frame acts as a fuel reservoir.

Seven new technologies from Volkswagen

• A lot has been happening at the Volkswagen Electric Research Laboratory (ERL); they have been busy developing technology may revolutionalise driving experience in a VW car. Cars with the ability to self-drive and self-park have been developed, and are now in the later stages of testing. Not only these, there is a whole lot more going on at the lab. We list them:

Traffic Jam Pilot

• The Traffic Jam Pilot was previewed in an A7 concept car, and word is that it will make its way to the next-gen A8 production model in 2016. This tech takes complete control of the car at speeds up to 64kph in traffic jams, when the system is activated. It has already been tested by VW for thousands of kilometers on US roads.

•  The Traffic Jam Pilot uses laser sensors, laser scanners, stereo cameras and ultrasonic cameras. ERL’s head of driver assistance systems, Jörg Schlinkheider, says that this is a scalable piece of technology that can be used on the entry level VW Golf to a range topping Audi A8. He also adds that the use of HD maps is important beyond the car's cameras and sensors, because the car needs to know what lies beyond a corner if it can't see and adapt accordingly.

Autonomous Parking

• This is also likely to make an appearance by 2016, and allows the car to park itself into a suitable space once it has been found. The system connects with the driver's smartphone, allowing him to instantly abort the manoeuvre if a danger is detected. With this tech onboard, cars can park themselves into tight spaces with just about 20cm on each side.

Steering wheel mounted touchpads

• This piece of technology is still in its initial stages. Touchpads are mounted on either sides of the steering wheel and allow the driver to input commands using their thumbs. Although this is being developed keeping the global markets in mind, it is easier to use these touchpads in English and Western European alphabet.

Connected Cars

• VW is coming up with a technology that it hopes will connect cars on the road. The company is looking at this technology to allow cars talk to one another about a whole host of functions – to tell the other cars about traffic conditions, road conditions, hazards on the road, etc. This will help make the flow of traffic faster and smoother.

iBeetle App

• The iBeetle allows full iPhone integration to the VW Beetle. The app docks into the car and allows functions such as the ability for tweets and Facebook posts to be read on the move, pictures to be taken and uploaded directly to Facebook, and the ability to record driving logs and data – such as the amount of time spent driving with the roof down – and uploaded to social media.

Photo Souvenir

• This piece of technology shows that the car is a machine that is capable of learning. The car is mounted with four GoPro cameras which take a picture every five seconds. This way, over a two hour journey, some 6,000 pictures are taken which amounts to 32GB data. Since this is too much for someone to go through, the car does the job for the driver, and picks out the best pictures possible to upload on social media.

• More than just simply taking pictures to select and share on social media, it actually learns more about the likes and dislikes of the drivers, and the car can later give suggestions accordingly.

Smart Accessories

•  Accessories such as surfboards and bikes are linked to the car through the cloud. If they were to be stolen, you’d be informed on your smartphone or smartwatch. The ultimate goal is to have increased connectivity between all sorts of products, so that when someone tries to use or sell the stolen product, it will be able to connect with smart technology and state that it is stolen.

Fisker returns with new Rocket muscle car for LA motor show

• Former Aston Martin design chief and Fisker Automotive founder Henrik Fisker has teamed up with US-based automotive firm Galpin Auto Sports to produce a new model.
• The car has been christened Rocket and will be given its world debut at the Los Angeles motor show next week.
• In the few details released by Fisker and Galpin on the Rocket, they have stated that the car will be “the ultimate American muscle car”. A single sketch of the Rocket shows its exaggerated styling from the rear three quarters, mixing muscle car and sports coupe lines.
• No further details of the car will be revealed ahead of its LA show debut next Thursday at 7.05pm UK time. 
• Fisker, who counts models such as the BMW Z8, Aston Martin DB9 and Fisker Karma on his CV, has been out of the industry’s public eye since he resigned from Fisker Automotive in March 2013. He had put the company’s first model, the Karma luxury plug-in hybrid, into production, but the company hit financial trouble and production of the Karma ended.

• The remains of Fisker Automotive have since been bought by Chinese firm Wanxiang America Corp, which has confirmed plans to launch a “New Fisker” that will “reintroduce ‘fun’ to the driving experience”, while keeping the original company’s roots.
• Galpin Auto Sports is an offshoot of the Galpin Motors dealership group, which has the world’s largest Ford franchise.
• Galpin Auto Sports offers “customising and personalising services on all new and pre-owned vehicles including collector and classic cars”, the firm says in its mission statement. It also creates some bespoke models, such as the 1110bhp Ford GT-based Galpin Ford GTR1 supercar.

Volkswagen develops new 268bhp diesel engine

• Volkswagen has developed an improvised 268bhp version of its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder (EA288) diesel engine. This engine is expected to help Volkswagen meet the tough CO2 emission targets that are part of the new EU regulations applicable in 2020. The new engine was showcased during a presentation at the Volkswagen headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.

• The new engine, which is a variation of the existing EA288 used across the Volkswagen line-up in different states of tune, is claimed to deliver a 14 percent improvement in power and economy over the 237bhp version recently unveiled in the eighth-gen Volkswagen Passat. At 237bhp, it is currently the most powerful variant of the EA288 in production.
• A two-stage electrically operated turbocharger, a piezo valve common rail injection system that operates at pressures of up to 2500bar, and a newly engineered variable valve timing system help achieve the improvisations in this new motor. Torque figures have not been confirmed, but it is reportedly similar to the 237bhp variant, which boasts 51.01kgm.
• This engine will possibly be mated to the new 10-speed dual-shift gearbox (DSG), that Volkswagen revealed at the Vienna motor symposium earlier this year. This gearbox is expected to go into production in 2016, and will be instrumental in further improvement of fuel economy and reduction in emissions throughout the Volkswagen line-up. Codenamed DQ511, the new gearbox has been developed for high-torque applications, up to 56kgm.
• The 10-speed DSG also features a coasting function and an improved brake energy recuperation system. The coasting function helps fuel efficiency by switching off the engine on trailing throttle and restarting automatically later.

New Maruti Alto K10 launched at Rs 3.06 lakh

• Maruti has launched the new Alto K10 at Rs 3.06 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The new Alto K10 comes with considerable mechanical and cosmetic upgrades. Like the previous Alto K10 was based on the standard Alto, the new Alto K10 is based on the Alto 800.

• On the mechanical front, the new Alto K10 is powered by a 998cc, three-cylinder K10 petrol engine that churns out 67bhp and 9.1kgm of torque. Although this is the same engine as before, it has been tweaked with to improve the fuel efficiency. There are two transmission options, which is the highlight of the new model. Apart from the standard five-speed manual, the new Alto K10 gets an AMT (automated manual transmission). This is the first time Maruti has offered the Alto in India with an automatic gearbox.
• On the outside, the Alto K10 gets a new grille with a chrome outline, new headlamps, new front and rear bumpers and a set of new taillights. On the inside, there's a new two-tone dashboard with a new style for the centre-console and audio system finished in glossy black.
• The top-specced trim boasts of features like a driver airbag, front fog lamps and remote central locking.
• The Alto has always been a very high-selling model in India. This new Alto K10, equipped with AMT and priced lower than the Celerio, makes it the most affordable AMT-equipped model. Needless to say, Maruti seems to have the perfect plan to keep the Alto at the top of the sales charts.

Prices for the New Maruti Alto K10 (ex-showroom, Delhi)

LX: Rs 3.06 lakh

LXi: Rs 3.22 lakh

VXi: Rs 3.38 lakh

VXi (O): Rs 3.57 lakh

VXI (Automatic) Rs 3.80 lakh

CNG

LXI: Rs 3.82 lakh



Prices for the New Maruti Alto K10 (ex-showroom, Mumbai)

LX: Rs 3.28 lakh

LXi: Rs 3.45 lakh

VXi: Rs 3.62 lakh

VXi (O): Rs 3.82 lakh

VXI (Automatic) Rs 4.06 lakh

CNG

 LXI: Rs 4.08 lakh

New Mercedes C-Class India launch on Nov 25, 2014

• Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed that the new C-Class sedan will be launched in India on November 25, this year.

• The new C-Class, Mercedes’ global best-seller was officially unveiled earlier this year at the Detroit motor show. Underpinning the C-class is the new lightweight modular rear-drive MRA (Mercedes Rear-drive Architecture) platform that will be fitted in all the core rear-drive models from the C-class and above, including sedans and SUVs.

• The new C-class is 4686mm long, 1810mm wide and 1442mm high, the length and width growing by 95mm and 40mm respectively over the current car, and the height reducing by 5mm. The wheelbase is up by 80mm to 2840mm.
• The increase in size is due to the recent arrival of the CLA in Mercedes’s global line-up, a model that closely matches the outgoing C-class in length. The fifth-generation C-class has been made longer and wider to distance itself from the Mercedes-Benz CLA four-door coupé that will be launched in India soon.

Royal Enfield posts 47 per cent sales growth

• Royal Enfield has announced its sales figure for the month of October 2014. It was yet another successful month for Royal Enfield in terms of sales as the iconic Indian two-wheeler manufacturer sold 25,510 units last month. Royal Enfield had sold 17,306 units in the corresponding month last year which translates into a growth of an impressive 47 per cent with respect to sales.

• Royal Enfield also hiked its export numbers as it exported 529 units in October 2014 with respect to 353 units in the same time period last year. But the most impressive figure for Royal Enfield is the year-to-date (YTB) number as it has sold 2,46,415 units till October 2014 which is a massive 75 per cent jump in terms of percentage growth.

• In terms of events, November would be an event packed month for Royal Enfield as it will host the 2014 Rider Mania. The 2014 edition of Rider Mania will be held from November 21 to 23 at Vagator, Goa. The Rider Mania has to be among the most popular events to be held by Royal Enfield and over 5,000 riders are expected to attend the motorcycle festival.
• In the international stage, Royal Enfield will be participating at the 2014 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy, Motorcycle Live 2014 at Birmingham, UK and Colombia Motorshow 2014. Apart from showcasing its entire range of motorcycles at the above mentioned shows Royal Enfield will also unveil its new range of apparel and accessories inspired by the despatch riders of the Great Wars.

Maruti Ciaz beats Honda City's sales in October

• Maruti was betting big on its new sedan, the Ciaz, after its previous attempts didn’t do too well. The Baleno and SX4 sold in average numbers at best, and the Vitara and Kizashi failed. 

• Things, however, finally seem to be falling into place - the Ciaz outsold its biggest competitor, the Honda City, in the first month since its launch.
• Maruti has delivered 6,345 units of the Ciaz, while Honda sold only 5,120 units of the City in October.
• Maruti Ciaz comes with an option of a 1.4-litre petrol engine or a 1.3-litre diesel. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard on both, while the petrol variant gets the choice of a four-speed automatic gearbox too. Authorized dealerships have received over 17,000 bookings for the Ciaz that retails from a starting price of Rs 6.99 lakh for the base petrol variant to Rs 9.8 lakh for the top diesel trim (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).