Heavy downpour and a surprise element in the form of a night stage on Day 1 of Isuzu RFC India 2018, the country’s toughest international off-road motorsport event, ensured a roaring start to the competition. At the end of Special Stages (SS) 1-5 of the competition, as per the Provisional Results, Sanbir Singh Dhaliwal (co-driver Gurpartap Singh Sandhu) from Chandigarh was at the top of the score board with 387 points out of 500.

Jagat Nanjappa (co-driver Chetan Changappa) from Coorg and Arunachal Pradesh’s Chow Ujjal Namshum (co-driver Ingpeng Mein) were at the second and third positions with 332 and 300 points respectively. The other two contestants who made it to the top five on the score board are Chandigarh’s Gurmeet Virdi (co-driver Kirpal Singh Tung) with 281 points and Hyderabad’s Dr Chaitanya Challa (co-driver Shabarish Jagarapu) with 268 points, at the fourth and fifth positions respectively. The contestants will be given a few hours after the announcement of the Provisional Results for protest, before the final results for SS 1-5 are declared.

The first day of the mega off-road motorsport event was held at an off-road location in Taluka Sanguem of Goa, with 38 teams attempting SS 1 to 5. Incessant rainfall made the tracks slippery and full of slush, making it extremely difficult for the contestants to tackle the stages. As per David Metcalfe, Chief Scrutineer, ISUZU RFC India 2018, “The stages were designed to be tough on the participants and their vehicles. While most of the SS were already quite demanding, the rains today have made them considerably tougher.”

The teams were allocated maximum 15 minutes for completing an SS, each one worth 100 points. The competitors who were unable to finish a task within the allowed time were given a DNF (Did Not Finish). Moreover, penalties were given to the teams for making mistakes like breaking a peg or a bunting or for touching a live winch cable. These penalties had a direct impact on the team’s cumulative score for that particular SS.

Gerrari Offroaders Chandigarh’s Sanbir Singh Dhaliwal, who was at the overall third position at RFC India 2017, had an amazing start to the competition this year. He said, “The level of competition this year has definitely shot up. The tracks today were very slippery, because of which things became quite tricky. I even suffered a minor vehicular breakdown, which I have repaired now. Overall, my focus today was on preparing myself for the coming days. Hopefully, I will be able to do well.”

Jagat Nanjappa of Coorg-based V5 Offroaders, who was the first runner-up at RFC India 2017, said, “The first day has been good for us. We had no setbacks apart from some minor penalties and one DNF for SS1, which no one was able to complete. The tracks are quite challenging this year. So, the idea would be to play it safe and preserve the vehicle for as long as we can.”

SS1 was the most difficult SS of the day and remained unconquered till the end, resulting in most of the contestants getting a DNF and the others opting for a DNS (Did Not Start) remark. This Stage required the competitors to go through two very steep ascents before descending on the other side. They had to go through a gate and take a left, before taking another left and then come down. Thereafter, they had to go up again from another gate and then come down towards the finish box.

SS2 was another tricky stage and required the competitors to climb a huge incline, take a left, come down, go towards a gated box, open its bunting, enter and close the entrance bunting, open the exit bunting and pass, close-back the exit bunting of the box, before climbing up an incline, taking a left, and descending towards the exit box.

SS3 required participants to enter a stream of water; run 150 meters; climb towards right and then speed-run before eventually entering the stream again; climb up an incline towards left and rush towards the exit box. In SS4, the contestants crossed a water stream; went anti-clockwise around a tree; went through the stream again; climbed towards the left before entering the stream again; and went clockwise around the same tree before moving towards the finish box.

RFC India debutant Chow Ujjal Namshum (co-driver Ingpeng Mein) of Team MOCA from Arunachal Pradesh said, “Last year, I attended the event as a spectator and the rain this time is considerably more, thereby making the track full of slush and water. My first SS for the day was SS4, where I was the seventh competitor to attempt the Stage and I ended up being one of the fastest. That is quite heartening as we have practiced hard for the competition for two months straight. Let’s see how things unfold going forward.”

While the day was great for some and disappointing for others, there is still a long way to go before the Isuzu RFC India 2018 overall champion is announced. The competition will be held at Suquerbag in Quepem over the next two days and then at the Green Hills Agri Farm in Maina, Quepem on 26th and 27th of July, before eventually culminating at the Rajiv Gandhi IT Habitat in Dona Paula on 28th of July.

(L-R): Satoshi Uchida, MD, SMIPL and Sajeev Rajasekharan, Executive Vice President, SMIPL at the launch of Burgman Street

Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. a subsidiary of two-wheeler manufacturer, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan has launched the much-awaited Burgman Street – a 125cc scooter and the descendant from its legendary Burgman portfolio.

Speaking at the launch of Burgman Street, Satoshi Uchida, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “The BURGMAN STREET creates a new category of scooters in India, focussing on the concept of advanced luxury riding. We are committed to offering premium, innovative and world-class products to customers. By bringing in the unique exposure of Suzuki’s international BURGMAN heritage, we believe that the BURGMAN STREET will be a ‘Special One’ in this segment that will herald a new era of luxury scooter riding in India.”

Sajeev Rajasekharan, Executive Vice President, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “The 125cc segment in scooters is a very exciting place currently where we also enjoy a strong leadership position. Equipped with exciting features, BURGMAN STREET redefines luxury and comfort in scooter segment in the country. The new BURGMAN STREET will not only help us strengthen our portfolio in this segment, but will also help us cater to a new dimension of scooter customers, who seek luxury and the joy of riding.”

The new Burgman Street is powered by a 125cc, 4-stroke air-cooled engine with SOHC 2 valve single-cylinder BS-IV Engine and produces 8.7 PS of power at 7000 rpm and 10.2 Nm of peak torque at 5000 rpm. The Burgman Street features SEP (Suzuki Eco Performance) technology, that offers a blend of fuel-efficiency and performance. The CBS on new Burgman Street enables operation of both brakes from the left brake lever, helping in maintaining a good balance between front and rear brake forces.

Burgman Street features a fully-digital instrument panel with a digital clock, fuel gauge, oil change indicator and a dual trip meter. The body mounted windscreen adopted from the design of international Burgman series, reduces the wind blast by improving the aerodynamics. The Burgman Street uses a long and comfortable seat, to give a sense of stability and comfort during long distance riding. The Burgman Street also scores high on utility aspects, with a convenient and secured lid equipped front pocket with standard fitment of DC socket and USB charger as accessory; and an under-seat storage capacity of 21.5-litres.

The new Burgman Street is available in Metallic Mat Fibroin Gray, Glass Sparkle Black and Pearl Mirage White, and is priced at Rs 68,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team’s Michael Metge continued his strong form on Day 3 to win the 35th edition of Baja Aragon. This is the first time the Sherco TVS Factory Rally team has won the Baja Aragon championship. Michael Metge starred in his first race with the Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team bagging his first victory at this Rally. Michael’s teammate and brother Adrien Metge also showcased strong performance and got on the podium with a P3 finish. Aishwarya Pissay unfortunately suffered an injury during the Rally and had to abandon the Rally at the start of Day 3.

Commenting on the Rally, David Casteu, Team Manager, Sherco TVS Factory Rally team says, “Baja Aragon was an intense experience for the team with multiple ups and downs, however, both the Metge brothers showcased tremendous character. Michael was excellent throughout the Rally, displaying immense professionalism and his performance has boosted the team’s spirit. Adrien also picked pace swiftly under pressure and harsh terrains to cement his podium finish. Overall, this has been a good start to the season and I hope we continue the same momentum going forward.”

Michael Metge

Commenting on his performance, Michael Metge, Racer, Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team says, “The Baja Aragon is tough and very competitive and I am thrilled to have maintained a consistent performance and finish at the top. This was my first stint with Sherco TVS Factory Rally team and I am grateful to them for the support. The RTR 450 is an amazing race machine which truly complements my riding style. I look forward to pushing my limits on it in the upcoming Rallies.”

Adrien Metge

“The Baja Aragon was my first Rally post my recovery.” said Adrien Metge, Racer, Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team, “Therefore, the pressure and expectations were tremendous. With the support of the technical crew and my team, I gained confidence through the Rally and managed a podium finish. This has fueled my confidence and I am now focused on improving my performance over the next Rallies.”

Piaggio India flagged off the very first edition of Vespa tours in Goa in collaboration with Piaggio 2W Dealer K.V Mototech in Goa. This guided tour gives participants a distinctive opportunity to ride the stylish Vespa along the scenic and peaceful roads and visit the unexplored locations in Goa.

Ashish Yakhmi, Head- 2W business along with Mangurish Kunde, proprietor of K.V Mototech, flagged off this first-of-its-kind tour to be held in India. The day long fun-filled Vespa tour offers participants the Vespa riding experience, in fascinating journey that lets them ‘Live More’, while traversing Goa’s quaint and unexplored beauty.

Goa is one of the most popular tourist destinations among Indian as well as foreign tourists. Majority of them prefer to visit the widely known places. Through this tour, the aim is to provide travellers with an extraordinary and authentic experience of brand Vespa and to gain perspective into the local culture. The destinations and the courses taken will be unlike any other; with an unique itinerary.

Vespa Tours is for travellers who want to discover new destinations at an exciting pocket-friendly package. The experience tour is available at an affordable price of Rs 2000 which includes helmets, fuel, experienced guide, a chance to partake of authentic Goan Food and exciting Vespa goodies. The itinerary includes trips to Betul Fishing Jetty, Betul Fort, Talpona beach, Chinchinim Village and many more breath-taking locations Goa has to offer.

BMW Motorrad India launched the all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS in India today. The two most-awaited motorcycles of the year are now available for test drives and are on sale throughout the BMW Motorrad dealer network.

Newly conceived from scratch, the all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS represent everything BMW Motorrad stands for and mark its foray into the sub-500 cc segment in India.

Dimitris Raptis, Head of Region Asia, China, Pacific, South Africa, BMW Motorrad said, “BMW Motorrad has a legacy of creating motorcycles with a unique appeal, some of which have created a proud history in the world of two-wheelers. Whether it is the performance, quality or handling, BMW Motorrad captures the pulse of true motorcyclists. Bringing the brand’s formidable experience and premium aspirations to the sub-500 cc segment, the all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS have opened up another important chapter in BMW Motorrad’s history and will lay a strong foundation for future growth.”

The all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS have been developed in Munich, Germany by BMW Motorrad and will be produced in Hosur, India by cooperation partner TVS Motor Company.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Motorrad has brought the
world’s finest premium motorcycles to India and created a distinct place for itself among
motorcycling enthusiasts within a short span of time. The all-new BMW G 310 R and the
all-new BMW G 310 GS will captivate the fast growing sub-500 cc segment and bring new
customer groups to the world of BMW Motorrad. The all-new BMW G 310 R is the perfect urban roadster for those who want to make pure motorcycling a part of everyday lives, whether it’s on an empty road or on the way to work. For those looking for an extra streak of adventure and fun, the all-new BMW G 310 GS is the answer. Both the offerings are set to redefine their segment as they are ideal for young people, novices, returning riders and many other motorcyclists.”

The ex-showroom prices are as follows:
The all-new BMW G 310 R : Rs 2,99,000
The all-new BMW G 310 GS : Rs 3,49,000

The all-new BMW G 310 R embodies the pure essence of a BMW roadster. It offers precisely what is needed for performance and comfort. It masters a range of disciplines; it’s just as happy winding its way nimbly and flexibly through the narrow city streets as it is travelling along country roads. The powerfully expressive design of the all-new BMW G 310 R instantly reveals its agile, dynamic character while making an unmistakable visual kinship with athletic family members such as the BMW S 1000 R. The striking headlamp, muscular fuel tank, attractive trim elements and characteristic roadster proportions of the front and rear give it a mature presence on the road. Compact proportions and a short wheelbase promise fast changes of direction, while the high rear conveys a lightness suggestive of the bike’s sporty genes. High-end details such as the standard upside-down fork, quality materials, supplementary fittings and excellent workmanship all reflect the finest within the segment, clearly underscoring the premium aspiration of the all-new BMW G 310 R.

The all-new BMW G 310 GS can be identified as a genuine GS at first sight. Nimble and agile in traffic, yet supremely robust over tough terrain, its agility opens up a whole new world of riding experience. Extremely compact, yet mature and comfortable, it is the perfect companion for adventures of everyday riding. With its high front fender, striking flyline, protective windscreen, and short but high rear, it features classic elements from the larger GS sibling models. The characteristic beak runs as a band of colour emerging from the headlamp mask across the fuel tank to the side trim. The high-quality luggage bridge comes as standard in the BMW G 310 GS, combining a striking shape with functional effectiveness.

The all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS are powered by a completely newly developed 313 cc water-cooled single-cylinder 4-stroke engine with four valves and two overhead camshafts together with electronic fuel injection. With an output of 25 kW (34 hp) at 9,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 28 Nm at 7,500 rpm, the engine is an ideal partner for dynamic riding pleasure. A remarkable feature of the engine is its backward-tilted cylinder in open-deck design with the cylinder head turned by 180 degrees, making it possible to position the intake tract at the front, viewed in the direction of travel. The motorcycles accelerate from 0 – 50 kmph in just 2.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 143 kmph.

The newly engineered 6-speed gearbox transfers the torque with an optimised transmission ratio. With a spontaneous throttle response, lively pulling power, full-blooded engine characteristics and a high maximum engine speed, both motorcycles deliver dynamic riding performance.

In terms of suspension, the all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS have a torsionally stiff, highly robust tubular steel frame in grid structure with bolt-on rear frame. The front wheel suspension is taken care of by a solid upside-down fork while at the rear there is an aluminium swinging arm in conjunction with a spring strut that is mounted on it directly. The suspension geometry is designed for easy handling, stability and a neutral cornering response, which makes for an active riding character and maximum riding fun.

Both motorcycles feature a high-performance brake system with 2-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for efficient deceleration and short braking distances. The standard multi-function instrument cluster has a large liquid crystal display that offers excellent clarity and a wide range of information.

The all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS will be sold and serviced through the dealer network of BMW Motorrad that is present across many centres in India including Delhi (Lutyens Motorrad), Mumbai (Navnit Motors), Pune (Bavaria Motors), Chennai (KUN Motorrad), Bengaluru (Tusker Motorrad), Ahmedabad (Navnit Motors) and Kochi (EVM Autokraft). BMW Motorrad’s upcoming dealerships in Chandigarh and Kolkata will also start accepting bookings of the motorcycles.

For complete peace of mind and to ensure that the journey of pure motorcycling continues uninterrupted at all times, the all-new BMW G 310 R and the all-new BMW G 310 GS come with standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometres’, with an option to extend warranty to fourth and fifth year.

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. has introduced another exciting edition to its Cygnus Ray ZR scooter series with the all new ‘Street Rally’ Edition in India today. The ‘Street Rally’ Edition draws design inspiration from globally reputed two wheeler models of Yamaha and offers a uniquely manoeuvred sporty imagery to the Cygnus Ray ZR design trend. The scooter will be priced at Rs.57,898 (ex-showroom Delhi) and will be available at all authorized Yamaha dealerships from last week of July 2018.

The new ‘Street Rally’ edition is available in two different colours – Rally Red and Racing Blue, and adopts a newly designed ‘Wing Style fairing’ (front fairing) inspired from Yamaha MT-09 which along with serving as the wind deflector, will also enhance the sporty look. The new ‘Knuckle Guard’ protects from windblasts on the handle grip and the movable front fender protects from mud splatter, while both adds up to its sporty appeal. The characterised ‘Rising Air Tail’ along with the sharp, sporty mirrors and fully digital meter comes along with ‘Roller Rocker Arm’ that reduces horsepower loss and ‘easy-to-use power’ settings in extremely low speed ranges.

The Cygnus Ray ZR ‘Street Rally’ Edition continues to draw power from an air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve, 113cc ‘Blue Core’ engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) unit, which provides both smooth initial acceleration and pickup. Presence of 170 mm diameter front disc brake and alloy wheels reduces the inertial moment of the steering assembly and thus, contributes to light, agile handling characteristics.

Speaking about the launch, Roy Kurian, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd. said, “Yamaha’s Cygnus Ray ZR ‘Street Rally’ Edition perfectly combines power and style that makes it an aspirational buy. Continuing with Yamaha’s legacy to provide technologically advanced, sporty and stylish products, ‘Street Rally’ will bring excitement to scooter customers who look for sporty scooters with easy manoeuvring along with smooth power delivery. The globally known ‘Unique style of Yamaha’ that outlines any product innovation including the ‘Street Rally’ edition will help the brand to keep up its incremental ascent in the Indian two wheeler market.”

A convoy of 70 rare and important Land Rovers stole the show at Goodwood Festival of Speed yesterday as part of a record parade up the famous Goodwood Hill, celebrating 70 years of Land Rover.

The largest ever batch of vehicles to drive up the famous hill were led by a recreation of the very first Land Rover – a Centre Steer prototype – and ‘HUE 166’, the first Series I pre-production prototype from 1948. The Series I was such a success that it spawned the Series II and Series III, an example of which became the millionth Land Rover sold just 28 years after the very first prototype. That millionth car also appeared in the parade, as part of a group of 25 early Series I, II and III vehicles including fire engines, SAS vehicles, aircraft crash rescue and African expedition heroes – demonstrating the breadth of versatility of Land Rover over the years.

All four generations of Range Rover featured in the convoy, including a Trans-Americas Expedition example which crossed the all-but-impassable Darien Gap in 1971 and a 2004 example used by Cheshire Police. Also present was Land Rover’s Discovery nameplate showcased with an example of each of the five generations, including a round-the-world expedition car, the first Discovery ever built and the millionth Discovery to roll off the line.

Representing Land Rover’s very latest crop of off-road vehicles was an example of each of the latest line-up; Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Velar, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Evoque and Evoque Convertible.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport was launched in India with a price tag of Rs 46.60 lakhs (ex-showroom). The latest version of the highly successful premium sports tourer cuts a visibly sportier figure with a number of new and striking elements and features. Locally-produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai and now available at BMW dealerships across India, the new BMW 320d Gran Turismo Sport further diversifies the model’s diesel portfolio.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo established a new vehicle concept and has become a highly successful model in its segment. The new BMW 320d Gran Turismo exhibits striking sporty elements both inside as well as outside, and creates a perfect interplay of luxury and ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’. With the introduction of this new sportier version, we are offering an attractive choice for our customers who want to elevate the feeling of dynamism and sporty aspirations in their vehicles.”

The exterior of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport is dynamic and eye-catching with the newly designed LED headlights coupled with LED rear lights. Typical BMW proportions, four doors with frameless windows, a coupe-style, gently downward-sloping roofline and a large automatically opening and closing tailgate define the distinctive exterior character of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport while the L-shaped lights at the rear underline the broad shape of the vehicle. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport sets clear visual accents. Its striking design features in high-gloss black at front and rear reinforce its sporty look. The boldly designed kidney grille slats in high-gloss black produce an especially athletic effect for the front end.

The interior of the new Sport variant reflects the dynamic character. Sports seat guarantee supreme comfort. Interior trim in fine-wood trim Ash Grain and highlight trim finisher in Pearl Chrome provide a sophisticated flair. Red contrast stitching on the Sport Steering Wheel and Gear Shift Paddles expresses the typical BMW athleticism. The 205 Watt, 9 speaker Hi-Fi loudspeaker system offers highest quality of entertainment for the passengers.

Spaciousness is one of the outstanding qualities of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport and is further enhanced by the panoramic glass sunroof bringing in a sense of well-being. The space argument is particularly persuasive in the rear compartment, where three full-size seats and legroom more familiar from a luxury sedan – courtesy of a wheelbase of 2,920 mm. Practical standard features – such as the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat bench with folding head restraints and tilt-adjustable backrests (cargo function), and the two-piece parcel shelf – underscore the impressive functionality of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport.

The latest generation BMW TwinPower Turbo diesel engines from the BMW EfficientDynamics family offer considerably more spirited power delivery as well as spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320d Gran Turismo produces an output of 140 kW / 190 hp and produces a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750-2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 7.7 seconds.

The eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gear shifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency.  For even greater driving pleasure, the eight-speed Steptronic transmission is available with steering wheel paddle shifters. Furthermore, the BMW 320d Edition Sport comes with a Launch Control function as standard.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo provides cutting-edge safety technologies. BMW’s exemplary safety provides optimal support in any situation with six air bags, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with brake assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Side-impact Protection, Runflat tyres with reinforced sidewalls, emergency spare wheel, electronic vehicle immobiliser and crash sensor.

BMW EfficientDynamics measures make a key contribution to the excellent fuel efficiency of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. Aerodynamic excellence and the accompanying reduction in fuel consumption are guaranteed by details such as the side air blades on the tailgate and the air curtain integrated into the air inlets at the front. These measures are aided by additional features such as the 50:50 weight distribution, low centre of gravity, intelligent lightweight construction, automatic start/stop function, ECO PRO mode, brake energy regeneration, electric power steering and more.

BMW has been setting the standard for connectivity between human, car and the outside world for many years now. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport comes with BMW ConnectedDrive features such as BMW Navigation System Professional with 3D maps (integrated Global Positioning System-GPS), BMW Apps, Connectivity through Bluetooth and USB connectivity, Rear View Camera along with PDC Rear and Front. The Control Display depicts the menu in a tile arrangement with animated graphics. The iDrive touch controller with handwriting recognition and a 22.3 cms colour display, DVD drive and integrated hard drive (20GB) features in the Sport variant. In the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Sport, the control display in conjunction with the Navigation system Professional now also has touch functionality and Apple Car Play with wireless integration.

Sherco TVS Rally Factory Team has announced that Aishwarya Pissay will be part of the four-member squad for the upcoming Baja Aragon. The rally is scheduled to kick-off on 20 July and conclude on 22 July in Teruel, Spain.  The team comprises of the French brother duo Adrien Metge and Michael Metge, Spaniard Lorenzo Santolino and Aishwarya Pissay from India. Aishwarya will be the first Indian woman factory racer to compete in a Baja World Rally and will be leaving to Spain later this week to train with the team. The squad will race on the Sherco TVS Rally Factory Team’s Dakar machine – RTR 450.

Aishwarya Pissay, Factory Racer, TVS Racing, says, “This will be my first international Rally and I am overwhelmed as well as grateful to TVS Racing for giving me this opportunity. The Baja Aragon is a good training ground for any racer who has their sights set on the Dakar, as it tests their mettle among international talent. I am excited to race alongside experienced International Champions from the Sherco TVS Rally Factory Team. The prospect of finally experiencing the RTR 450 is daunting but I look forward to packing time on the motorcycle and perfecting my technique. “

Commenting on the team’s participation, B. Selvaraj, Team Manager, TVS Racing, said, “We are thrilled to be a part of the 35^th edition of Baja Aragon and Aishwarya’s participation makes it special, as she will be the first Indian woman to participate in a Baja World Rally.  What makes this even more exciting is that this is a new team that we are fielding for the Rally and it will be interesting to see how the dynamics play out. Our technical team is also working around the clock on the performance of the bikes and I wish the team the very best for the Rally.”

Bengaluru’s 22-year-old Aishwarya Pissay is an ace female racer, a winner of Raid De Himalaya 2017, Dakshin Dare 2017, Indian National Rally Championship (INRC), 2017 and TVS Apache Ladies One Make Championship 2017.

Adrien Metge has been associated with Sherco TVS Rally Factory team since 2016. He has participated in Dakar for two consecutive years where he finished 11th in 2016 and 22nd in 2017.  Michael Metge, a recent entry into the Sherco TVS Rally Factory Team has proved his mettle in Dakar Rally six consecutive times.

Spanish racer Lorenzo Santolino comes on board with vast experience in the international racing circuit. He has participated in OiLibya Morocco Rally and Desert Storm, apart from being a position holder in World E1 Championship 2015 and 7-time Spanish Champion in Enduro and XC.

Isuzu Motors India has joined hands with Cougar Motorsport Pvt. Ltd. to promote the spirit of adventure by sponsoring the 2018 edition of RFC India. This is the 5^thedition of India’s toughest international off-road motorsport event, will be held in Goa between 21 July and 28 July, 2018.

RFC India was launched in the year 2014 by Delhi-based Cougar Motorsport as the India Chapter of the iconic Rainforest Challenge of Malaysia, which is counted among the top ten toughest motor races in the world. Today, RFC India is amongst the top three RFC Global events out of the 51 editions being held across 21 countries. The event enjoys a cult following in the Indian off-roading and adventure sports communities; thousands of off-roaders and adventure enthusiasts from across the country converge in Goa every year to witness this week-long battle amongst India’s best off-roaders.

Isuzu RFC India 2018 will witness participation from 41 teams from various parts of the country where they will undertake 26 Special Stages (SS) or challenges. The total benefits to the top Indian driver of Isuzu RFC India 2018 will amount to USD 10,000, including an automatic free entry worth USD 3,900 to the RFC Mother Event, to be held in Malaysia at the end of the year.

Commenting on the association, Ken Takashima, Deputy Managing Director, Isuzu Motors India, “We are happy to be associated with this edition of RFC India, as we see a right fit in terms of promoting the spirit of adventure in India. Our products are highly regarded for its tough-build, durability and reliability across the world. Our products are receiving tremendous response in India and to many adventure enthusiasts, the V-Cross is an aspirational vehicle. I wish the RFC India team and the participants the best.”

Commenting on this partnership, Cougar Motorsport’s Founder & Director Ashish Gupta said, “Our association with Isuzu Motors India started a couple of years ago with the India 4X4 Week, where they not only participated as an exhibitor but also sponsored some of the sessions. I am happy to renew our association with them and have them as the Title Sponsor for RFC India 2018. ISUZU D-Max V-Cross is India’s first Adventure Utility Vehicle and has some superlative features, which make it the perfect vehicle for off-roaders and adventure enthusiasts. I am sure that this partnership will be mutually beneficial and the brand will get to showcase all the major highlights of this amazing vehicle to a substantial section of the Indian off-roading community that would be attending the event.”