When Rolls-Royce announced three years ago that it would launch Cullinan, it did so in the knowledge that its customers around the world had asked it to build “The Rolls-Royce of SUVs”, with luxury, performance and usability not seen before in the SUV market. Many of these customers were younger, very successful high-net-worth individuals who are heavily engaged in the experience economy, and wanted a Rolls-Royce that would take them to the ends of the Earth in ultimate luxury.

Automotive mobility has always been a fast moving and dynamic business, with new concepts – such as SUVs – appearing with great regularity. But those new concepts need to be perfected in order to be adopted by those customers who will accept no compromise – the patrons of true luxury. Hence the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Torsten Muller-Otvos, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said, “The launch of a new Rolls-Royce model is always a seminal moment in the luxury industry. Today we are setting a new standard by creating a new class of motoring and motor car for customers who are well-connected, highly mobile and have a global perspective. They want a new type of motor car that gives them unbounded access in ultimate luxury. Their sense of adventure and daring demands a “go-anywhere in ultimate luxury” motor car that will both take them to and meet them at the pinnacle of life. Cullinan is that motor-car.”

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is Rolls-Royce as it’s never seen before. When Sir Henry Royce said, “Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it”, he could have had Cullinan in mind.

“We knew we had to offer our clients what they couldn’t find in the SUV market,” continues Muller-Otvos. “They do not accept limitations or compromises in their lives. They are the new pioneers, and for them it’s about their sense of adventure and daring in how they live their experiences. This approach to life demands a motor car that can go-anywhere in ultimate luxury and style – Rolls-Royce style. Hence Cullinan.”

It was clear that these new, younger and more adventurous customers wanted a Rolls-Royce that would take them completely off the beaten track and reward them with life’s most enriching experiences. What they didn’t want was a vehicle as ubiquitous as an SUV with compromises such as increased cabin noise due to the “two-box” formula; shared platforms that affect performance and comfort; the choice of being good either on-road or off-road; or a lower, more featureless SUV that blends in and becomes just another car.

“Cullinan is luxury in its purest form blended with perfect practicality and off-road capability,” comments Muller-Otvos. “Effortless, Everywhere is not just the promise behind Cullinan. It’s the fact.”

Making luxury Effortless, Everywhere engendered an evolution in Rolls-Royce’s approach to creating an authentic Rolls-Royce SUV. The most obvious sign of this was the radical rear of Cullinan.

For the first time a Rolls-Royce has an opening tailgate, called ‘The Clasp’. In a nod to the era when luggage was mounted on the exterior of the motor-car, so the occupants did not travel with their belongings, the rear profile of Cullinan is a two-part, ‘D-Back’ format, with the bustle denoting the place of the luggage. ‘The Clasp’ opens and closes in its two sections automatically at the touch of the key fob button.

The rear passenger compartment of Cullinan has been designed to offer the best seat in the house for the owner’s particular needs. Two rear configurations are offered – Lounge Seats or Individual Seats.

The Lounge Seat configuration is the more functional of the two options. With space for three passengers in the rear, it will likely be more attractive to families. The rear seats also fold down – a first for Rolls-Royce.

The seats fold electronically in a number of configurations by pressing the appropriate button in the boot or rear door pocket. One press sees each backrest effortlessly fold down, whist at the same time moving the headrests upwards to avoid making an imprint on the seat cushion. Both seat backs can be folded completely, creating a flat load area or in a 2/3 and 1/3 split, increasing practicality even further. Rear passengers can still travel with a long load, or use the carpeted seat back as an occasional table on which to rest their precious personal items.

For those who intend to transport large items back from their adventures, the rear of Cullinan offers a large amount of space in different arrangements.

The rear compartment or boot area offers a standard 560 litres of space, growing to 600 with the parcel shelf removed. Furthermore, the base of the rear seats sits higher than the boot floor, so even with both rear seats folded, the items in the boot cannot slip forward and are safely contained, unlike in any other SUV. But for those wishing to carry a long item back from their trip – whether it be a Mark Rothko from the Art Gallery or a newly discovered artefact from the latest archaeological dig – a loading length of 2245mm and load capacity of 1930 litres is accessed by electronically raising the boot floor to meet the seat base, allowing the item to slide through effortlessly.

Rolls-Royce’s investment in making the rear of Cullinan effortlessly and ultimately practical has the side benefit of offering a loading length longer than a Range Rover Vogue Extended Wheelbase. A very practical Rolls-Royce indeed.

Knowing that the Rolls-Royce customer expects to bespoke his or her Cullinan, a second rear configuration is offered.

The Individual Seat configuration is for those who value the ultimate luxury an SUV can offer over practicality. The two individual rear seats are separated by a Fixed Rear Centre Console incorporating a drinks cabinet with Rolls-Royce whisky glasses and decanter, champagne flutes and refrigerator. The seats also move in a number of planes to offer ultimate comfort whilst travelling in the rear.

One final feature brings Rolls-Royce’s ultimate level of luxury to this configuration of Cullinan, creating the first truly “three-box” SUV. Inspired by the age when one never travelled with one’s luggage, a glass partition isolates the passenger cabin from the luggage compartment, creating an inner ecosystem for the occupants. In addition to enhanced and class-leading silence within the cabin, a further benefit becomes clear in the hottest and coldest of environments. Thanks to the sealed cabin created by the glass partition wall, the occupants can remain in the optimum temperature even when the luggage compartment stands open.

Cullinan awakes at the touch of the unlock button on the Bespoke key, or indeed by simply reaching out to its beautifully tactile stainless steel door handle. It lowers itself by 40mm to make entry effortless as the iconic Rolls-Royce coach doors stand open to welcome driver and passengers to their adventure.

Having stepped directly into the cabin, thanks to the wide aperture of the doors and completely flat floor, driver and passengers press the door closing button to seal themselves within the sanctuary of Cullinan’s cabin. Or one touch of the sensor on the exterior door handles will see the doors automatically close themselves from outside.

A touch of the start button then elevates Cullinan 40mm to its standard, commanding ride height, placing its occupants in the perfect position from which to see the world as it drives off.

The driver instantly recognises Cullinan as a driver’s car thanks to its thicker, smaller steering wheel. It’s heated, pliant rim hints at epic voyages which Cullinan is all too eager to begin, whilst heated and ventilated seats mean passengers will be perfectly acclimatised. From their commanding position at the helm of Cullinan, all equipment and technology is clearly seen and reached by the driver.

All information is clearly communicated by the latest generation of digital instruments, with the displays themselves designed with clear and beautiful virtual needles, Rolls-Royce jewellery-like chaplets and clear lettering.

The central information screen is for the first time touch sensitive, allowing the driver to quickly select functions, map views and vehicle set-up whilst on the trail. This portal can still be controlled from the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy controller which nestles on the central console with the ‘Off-Road’ button, Hill Descent Control button and Air Suspension height adjustment controls.

A host of other cutting-edge technology makes Rolls-Royce Cullinan the most technologically advanced car of its type in the world. Further equipment includes: Night Vision and Vision Assist including daytime and night-time Wildlife & Pedestrian warning; Alertness Assistant; a 4-Camera system with Panoramic View, all-round visibility and helicopter view; Active Cruise Control; Collision Warning; Cross-Traffic Warning, Lane Departure and Lane Change Warning; an industry leading 7×3 High-Resolution Head-Up Display, WiFi hotspot, and of course the latest Navigation and Entertainment Systems.

For those not behind the wheel, the world’s most spectacular scenery is to be seen from a privileged position. Those in the rear sit higher than those in the front of the car on Rolls-Royce’s Pavilion Seating, enjoying grandstand views of their surroundings thanks to the large glazed area of Cullinan’s side windows and industry-leading panoramic glass roof. And if they wish to locate themselves or their latest far-flung discovery, they can zero in on their location on the rear touchscreen map.

Also, no photographic opportunity will be missed as all electronic devices can be charged via the five USB ports around the cabin, whilst phones can be wirelessly charged in the front of the cabin.

Arriving at their remote destination, the occupants can descend without dirtying their trouser legs as both front and rear coach doors wrap low under the sill of Cullinan, ensuring that all dirt remains on the outside of the door. A feature only Rolls-Royce would have considered.

“The proposition of this car is an engineering masterpiece, its off-road capability, whilst maintaining the world-famous ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ of Rolls-Royce,” comments Muller-Otvos. “When we began engineering this car, these were the guiding principles.”

Key to the creation of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV was the Architecture of Luxury – Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-aluminium architecture.

The Architecture of Luxury really comes into its own in creating Cullinan. The engineering team behind Cullinan adapted the Architecture of Luxury to the design template of a high-bodied car laid down by Giles Taylor and his design team thanks to its innate adaptability.

It was designed and engineered from the ground up in such a way as to be scalable to the size and weight requirements of different future Rolls-Royce models, including those with different propulsion, traction and control systems, thus underpinning the long-term future product roadmap.

Cullinan uses this new architecture in a wholly different manner to deliver an iconic design and presence, uncompromised comfort, space and usability, cutting edge technology and the peerless on-road and off-road driving experience and capability.

The component parts of the base architecture were reconfigured into a spaceframe that was higher and shorter whilst also delivering a completely new feature never seen before on a series production Rolls-Royce – a tailgate.

The all-new aluminium sub-structure delivers extraordinary car body stiffness for exceptional ‘best-in-class’ functional performance on rough terrain whilst offering better ride comfort.

The integration of new technologies into the architecture was also key to ensuring the fundamental quality of Cullinan as Effortless, Everywhere. The engineering team began by creating a drivetrain that would bring Rolls-Royce’s famous ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ off-road.

“The drivetrain system we engineered for Cullinan had one key job to do,” explains Caroline Krismer, Engineering Project Leader for Cullinan. “To bring the famed Rolls-Royce ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ to all other terrains possible, while ensuring class-leading on-road behaviour in the SUV sector.”

Rolls-Royce’s celebrated Magic Carpet Ride impresses off-road as well as on-road thanks to the new lighter architecture, and the latest generation of self-levelling air suspension. Through a thorough re-engineering of the existing air suspension system – including adding larger air struts with more air volume to cushion the blows of the toughest of terrains – the strengthening of drive and prop shafts, the inclusion of drive to the front wheels as well as the back for the first time in Rolls-Royce history, and the complete reworking of the new 6.75 litre twin-turbo V12 Rolls-Royce engine to deliver just the right level of torque (850Nm) at the lowest possible revolutions (1,600rpm), the Rolls-Royce engineering team has ensured Cullinan will take owners to places no modern Rolls-Royce owner has travelled in luxury before.

The suspension makes millions of calculations every second as it continuously varies the electronically controlled shock absorber adjustment system – reacting to body and wheel acceleration, steering inputs and camera information. A new double-wishbone front axle and 5-link rear axle deliver astounding levels of control over lateral roll and shear forces and deliver incredible agility and stability, as does the addition of four-wheel steering, all contributing to incredible drivability and nimbleness.

In the case of driving off-road, the electronically controlled shock absorber adjustment system uses an air compression system to actively push down any wheel it detects losing traction to ensure every wheel is constantly in contact with the ground and maximum torque is being provided to all wheels.

“Put simply, what makes the car great on-road makes the car great off-road,” concludes Krismer.

The final piece of the puzzle of ensuring that the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is Effortless, Everywhere is one single button. Known within Rolls-Royce as the ‘Everywhere’ button, one single push is all it takes to harness all the aforementioned peerless Rolls-Royce engineering and unleash all of Cullinan’s off-road capability.

Once engaged, the driver can finesse the off-road setting to glide over any situation, whether it be rough track, gravel, wet grass, mud, snow or sand delivering all 850Nm of torque to all four wheels without interruption. And faced with deep snow, sand or the need to ford streams, Cullinan delivers the deepest wading depth of any super-luxury SUV at 540mm thanks to its highest ride height.

“At this point in the history of automotive design, SUVs have become homogenous and ubiquitous,” comments Giles Taylor, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “The label SUV is now applied to anything with a two-box silhouette and the least suggestion of going off tarmac. We envisioned an authentic, three-box all-terrain high-bodied car with a convention-challenging design and absolute capability that would satisfy the adventurous urges of our clients.”

Working with the Architecture of Luxury, Taylor and his team designed the car he knew would meet expectations. Iconic design, proper Rolls-Royce proportions inside and out, and uncompromised levels of luxury.

“One of the first benefits of the Architecture of Luxury to the design of Cullinan was the ability to place the wheels and create a unique roofline silhouette that would give Cullinan an immediate sense of Rolls-Royce pedigree,” comments Taylor. “This gave Cullinan the commanding stance of a warrior, immediately communicating its strength and power, whilst at the very same time allows effortless entry and exit from the rear cabin.”

This strength and power are immediately apparent from the face of Cullinan. Key features such as lights and air intakes are deep set into the bodywork, whilst strong vertical and horizontal lines create a powerful visage, with the prominent brow of a Saxon warrior created by the line that runs across the top of the pantheon grille and ‘eyebrow’-like daytime running lights. This approach lends a toughness of expression to the front of Cullinan.

The grille is created from hand-polished stainless steel, but for Cullinan it is set slightly proud of the surrounding bodywork that pushes it up and forward. The Rolls-Royce badge and Spirit of Ecstasy ride significantly above the line of the wing, giving them a unique vantage point.

Away from the face of Cullinan the vertical lines that run from the A-pillars down along the raised bonnet edge, down the side of the grille and into the metal skid plate below emphasise the height of the car and its dominant character.

From the side, the purposefulness of Cullinan is clear. There is an uncompromising sheerness of the typical Rolls-Royce long bonnet profile, with the bonnet itself seen to be set higher than the wings of the car to communicate greater toughness.

The line then rises quickly on the A-pillar to resolve in an ultimate height for Cullinan of 1,836mm, a height accentuated by the glass to metal ratio as seen from the side. From just over the B-pillar, the roofline becomes quite fast and drops away to the even faster rear glass which resolves in an elegantly protruding boot lid that reminds one of the D-Back Rolls-Royces of the 1930’s, some of the last of the marque to still carry their owner’s luggage on a shelf outside the car.

Taylor’s famous rotating line then takes the eye back towards the front of Cullinan as it shoots forward through the 22-inch wheel hubs to give it a beautiful balance, whilst the depth of the side profile is optically broken up by a most authentic and honest piece of metal, like a Saxon spear, that flies down the lower door surface and gives the whole side of the car a beautiful sense of tension.

The rear view of Cullinan continues the theme of functionality, with the design reduced to a functional baseline. Any jewellery is subdued. So for instance, the Rolls-Royce badge stands on its own smaller plinth separate and above a thin metal finisher over the number plate housing. The design theme for the rear lights also remains simple as two narrow upright units house all the lights and are minimally adorned by thin narrow strips of jewellery at their centre. A final mark of functionality are the exposed metal exhaust pipes and skid plate, both reminding one of Cullinan’s power and ability.

Inside, the cabin of Cullinan combines authentic Rolls-Royce luxury with simple, symmetrical functionality to express the car’s inherent strength. Whether the fascia and centre stack of the dashboard or the arm rests on the doors, structural horizontal and vertical elements underpin the interior design.

The centre stack is framed by hand-finished metal pillars that bridge the upper fascia and middle console, giving it a sense of robustness, whilst also suspending the horizontal elements of the fascia to give a more commanding feel.

The upper fascia is clad in a newly developed contemporary ‘Box Grain’ black leather – a durable and water resistant boarded leather similar to that used in Italian high-end luggage and handbag design. It gives the fascia a sense of width as it runs across its upper segment, allowing the jewellery-like elements of clock and air vents to stand out beautifully.

Supporting this upper section is a strong band of wood that is moulded in three-dimensions to flow out to the centre stack, whilst the entire dashboard is protected by leather pads on top and at the bottom. The top pad is fashioned in a wing like fashion, suggesting muscularity and movement, as well as the functionality of a cockpit.

Finally, the seats in Cullinan have a bold, confident character, showcasing Rolls-Royce quality and craftsmanship. Designed to suit the more casual and dynamic quality of Cullinan, they feature a simple but modern horseshoe graphic which emphasises the supportive bolsters of the seat. These new seats also showcase Rolls-Royce’s mastery of leather craft as this entire backrest panel has been crafted from a single piece of leather to pick out a highly three-dimensional surface.

All areas throughout the interior that are now heated include the front door armrests, front centre console lid, lower C-Pillar, rear side armrests and rear centre armrest.

Driving to your remote location is simply the first part of the adventure in a Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Further enjoyment awaits in the shape of a Rolls-Royce Recreation Module.

Imagine the scene. Having chosen your adventure you call down to your garage. “Jason, we’re going to go drone racing today. Can you load the Drone Module into the Cullinan?” Downstairs, Jason selects the Drone Racing Module from the rack containing several other Recreation Modules that the owner has had commissioned from Rolls-Royce to satisfy his or her preferred recreational pursuits.

Fly fishing, photography, rock climbing, snowboarding, parascending, kite boarding, base jumping, volcano boarding or simply sitting and taking in the view, anything is possible thanks to the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective. Easily slotted and plugged into the boot of Cullinan, each Recreation Module contains a motorised drawer housing the equipment and paraphernalia specific to each Cullinan owner’s pursuits. When the owner is ready to play, it presents itself.

A masterful race performance by Marc Marquez at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto earned him and the Repsol Honda Team a second consecutive win and the leadership in both the Rider and Constructor Classifications. This was the 63rd win of Marc’s career and his 37th in MotoGP (equalling Mike Hailwood’s mark in the Premier class), and a great success at a track where he has always struggled, which demonstrates the great feeling he has with his RC213V this season.

On the other hand, a turn-six race incident on lap 18 prevented Dani Pedrosa from fighting for a podium finish that was clearly within his reach. The incident also involved Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso. Dani escaped a heavy high-side without major injury, but he suffered a hard blow to his right hip and will therefore wait until tomorrow before deciding whether to take part in the one-day test that the Repsol Honda Team will attend at the same Jerez track.

Repsol Honda Team Rider, Marc Marquez said, “This win in front of these amazing fans is great! I’m very happy with the result, which is especially important at this track, because winning here is usually difficult for me. That said, I was convinced before the start that I could fight for the victory today. It was a tough weekend, but we did good work, and in the end I was able to manage the race in the best way, despite the fact that I wasn’t the fastest rider out there today. The key was the rear-tyre choice; we made the decision after the warm-up to go with the medium, and that was the right move. Then I was able to take the lead at the right moment and push when I had the chance. I also had a big moment when I hit some dirt on the track. When I realized that the asphalt was covered in gravel, it was already too late. I closed the gas, but I had a huge slide! Let’s say it was a bit of a ‘Marquez style’ show! I’m happy to have taken my first win at Angel Nieto’s Circuit, and to have an advantage in the Championship. We’ll have a test here tomorrow, and we’ll try to continue the good work. It will be a long season and we must keep our focus high.”

Repsol Honda Team Rider, Dani Pedrosa commented, “I have a lot of pain in my right hip, which is very swollen at the moment, so tomorrow we’ll have to see how I feel and whether I’ll be able to ride in the test. Regarding the race, of course it’s a great pity. I was riding well and was able to keep a very good pace, even if I wasn’t totally comfortable with the acceleration, and making passes was difficult for me. I was just sticking to Dovi and Jorge, trying to see if I could conserve my tyres and improve my pace at the end of the race, or if they would make a mistake. Finally they did, and they both went very wide. I kept the regular inside line, and the next thing I felt was a big hit, and I suffered a heavy high-side. Unfortunately, it ended up with the three of us crashing. I’m very sad and disappointed for all of us, as we were having a great race but ended with zero points, and also because all of us are used to a nice style of riding and didn’t deserve this result. However, what makes me sadder and more disappointed is that I could see that the Race Direction don’t seem to understand very well how to manage these situations, and how to make decisions about things that happen on the track. I went to speak with them, just because I wanted to understand how they make decisions. In the end, there are many people who watch us, and many other riders who look at us as examples. I asked them how they judge: Was I on the correct inside line? Yes. Were the other guys on the outside coming back from a mistake, re-joining the right line? Yes. So who has the preference in this case, the guy who is inside or those who are outside? The one on the inside. So, who was at fault? But I didn’t get an answer, only that they had already made their decision and that if I didn’t agree with it, which I don’t, to appeal against Jorge if I wanted. But I didn’t want that, as I don’t want Jorge to be penalized, only for them to understand correctly what is happening on track.”

TVS Motor Company today announced the launch of the Race Edition of TVS Apache RTR 180 priced at Rs 83,233 (ex-showroom Delhi).  This special edition comes in a Pearl White colour with racing inspired graphics and will be offered with front and rear disc brakes as standard.

The styling is based on a racing carbon fibre theme which denotes light-weight attributes and racing intent. The TVS Apache RTR 180 Race Edition sports a new 3D TVS logo and features TVS Racing branded rim stickering on the alloy wheels. It has a digital dashboard with a blue backlit display and numerous tell-tale signs which includes 0-60 kmph speed recorder, lap timer and service indicator amongst others.

The TVS Apache RTR 180 Race Edition features a 177.4 cc single cylinder, 4 stroke engine which churns out 16.62 PS of maximum power at 8500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of maximum torque at 6500 rpm.  The motorcycle, which boasts of a 0-60kmph in 4.96 seconds is equipped with a superior braking performance and has the best-in-class power-to-weight ratio.

Audi aims to sell approximately 800,000 fully electric cars and plug-in hybrids in the year 2025. At this Wednesday’s Annual General Meeting of Audi AG, the Board of Management presented the updated “Audi.Vorsprung.2025.” strategy. To enable about every third customer to decide in favour of an e-model by the middle of the next decade, there is to be an electrified variant in each model series by then – most of them are to be fully electric, with a smaller proportion as plug-in hybrids.

In order to release resources for the package of investments amounting to billions of euros, Audi adopted its Action and Transformation Plan towards the end of last year. It has the objectives of tapping into new revenue sources, improving cost structures and accelerating the corporate transformation with regard to new business models. That will considerably increase the scope for investment. By 2025, approximately €40 billion is to flow into strategic areas such as e-mobility, autonomous driving and digitization. This also applies to the digitization of production.

“Our ambition has always been and will continue to be Vorsprung durch Technik ,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi AG. “Our goal is to revolutionise mobility. Also in electric mobility, we want to become the Number 1 among the premium manufacturers – with full suitability for everyday use, no compromises, top quality and driving pleasure for the customer. With our technological excellence, we are utilizing our Vorsprung and lifting electric mobility to the next level.”

The production version of the Audi e-tron prototype is the first result of the Roadmap E initiative, with which the premium brand will electrify its complete portfolio by 2025. This also includes investment in the German plants in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm as well as a clear commitment for job security until the end of 2025.

The product fireworks include more than 20 electrified models in rapid succession until 2025. In 2019, the Audi e-tron Sportback will be the second fully electric car to be launched, followed by the Audi e-tron GT from Audi Sport in 2020. Audi will also offer an electric model in the premium compact segment in 2020.

For its Roadmap E, the company is making systematic use of two major Volkswagen Group synergy levers in the area of development. In addition to the Modular Electric Toolkit developed by Volkswagen for the compact segment, Audi and Porsche are working together to implement the premium-architecture electrification for mid-range, full-size and luxury-class electric cars. These cooperation projects reduce development costs substantially. For the customer, it means a quickly available choice from a broad portfolio for emission-free driving.

With electric mobility, Audi takes a holistic, resource-conserving approach also to production: In Brussels, the Audi e-tron is the first premium car to be produced in certified CO2-neutral highvolume production. Following Brussels’ example, Audi will make all its production sites worldwide CO2 neutral by 2030.

At the market launch of the e-tron, customers in Europe will benefit from a high-performance charging infrastructure. Audi is making a significant contribution to the development of that infrastructure through the Ionity joint venture. The production version of the Audi e-tron will be the first car that can be charged at rapid-charging stations with up to 150 kilowatts. This will make the electric SUV ready for the next long distance in just under 30 minutes. Its lithium-ion battery provides a range of more than 400 kilometers in the WLTP driving cycle.

For the first time, the production version of the e-tron prototype offers Audi customers the possibility to flexibly book functions such as driver assistance systems or infotainment features also after the vehicle is bought. More digital content and services will gradually be made available to the passengers. Audi aims to generate operating profit of €1 billion with such new business models by 2025.

“Just in time for the 50th anniversary of Vorsprung durch Technik , we will also present our first autonomous electric car based on our Audi Aicon show car in 2021. An interurban shuttle with lounge character – initially in a pilot fleet and around the middle of the decade as a series production car for automated driving,” says Peter Mertens, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at Audi AG.

“Worldwide, we are accelerating the implementation of new, profitable business models in those areas that will be essential for our industry in the future,” says Alexander Seitz, Member of the Board of Management for Finance at Audi AG. “Since January, we have implemented the first measures of the Action and Transformation Plan amounting to a low three-digit million figure. Identified measures will have a sustained effect and a long-term impact on revenue and costs. We will therefore gain the greatest benefits as of 2020, when our plan unfolds its full power, yielding a total of €10 billion by 2022. Audi will thus be able to secure its strong profitability despite high levels of investment.”

The legendary Aston Martin Vantage V600 has been reborn in the form of a customer commissioned limited run of all-new breathtakingly beautiful Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600s, inspired and influenced by the original V8 Vantage V600.

In 1998, Aston Martin offered its customers the most extreme iteration of its Vantage sportscar, the supercharged V8 Vantage V600. Delivering 600bhp, the model was one of the most powerful sports cars of its time, a car of extremes.

Fast forward 20 years and the luxury British carmaker’s unique personalisation service Q by Aston Martin received a customer commission for a strictly limited run of 14 new Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600s. Split between seven coupes and seven roadsters and dubbed the ‘Triple V’, this unique series of manual V12 V600s have been commissioned, designed and handcrafted without compromise.

Underpinned by the previous-generation ‘VH’ Vantage, the 2018 Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600 combines the modern performance of a muscle sportscar with timeless styling, creating the ultimate analogue Vantage.

Marek Reichman, Vice President & Chief Creative Officer Aston Martin said, “This is precisely why we created our ‘Q by Aston Martin – Commission’ service. Our customers can create truly bespoke sports cars by personally collaborating with myself and Aston Martin’s design team. The V600 name remains a classic in Aston Martin’s heritage and I’m proud to see it adorn the V12 Vantage V600 once again”.

Powered by an upgraded version of Aston Martin’s impressive 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 600PS, the Vantage V600 is designed to excite the senses. A 7-speed manual transmission provides an engaged driving experience, while the front and rear dual independent wishbone suspension – featuring 3-stage adaptive damping – produces a sublime ride in all conditions.

The V12 Vantage V600 has commanding road presence and utilises aggressive styling cues across its full-carbon fibre exterior. Like the 90s classic, the V600 utilises a re-imagined side-strake and a bulging bonnet that hints towards the power that lies underneath. A unique darkened grille provides maximum air and cooling to the model’s characterful V12, while the car’s rear continues to signal towards the car’s powerful nature.

An all-new carbon fibre diffuser provides the backdrop for an attention grabbing quad exhaust system. The external look of the V600 is further distinguished by bespoke centre-lock forged and machined aluminium wheels.

The interior of the Vantage V600 is a study in the beauty of carbon fibre and dark anodised aluminium. The lightweight seats have an all-new perforation pattern, carbon fibre centre console and bespoke driver information dials. A hand-crafted saddle leather centre armrest provides comfort and style within ergonomic reach of the machined-from-solid gear shifter.

The 2018 Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600 is available on request with deliveries taking place in Q3 2018.

Nissan India today announced launch of the Terrano Sport special edition with a host of new features, restyled interior and exterior design elements. The Terrano Sport edition gets dynamic body decals with an all-black roof wrap, black wrapped pillars and new wheel-arch claddings. Bold new stripes have been emblazoned on the SUV’s hood, fenders, rear bumper, and front and rear doors. The new crimson-stitched seat covers and floor mats with crimson highlights further add to Terrano Sport edition’s style quotient. Nissan Terrano Sport will be priced at Rs 12, 22,260.

Commenting on the launch, Jerome Saigot, Managing Director, Nissan India Private Limited said, “Inspired by our global SUV heritage, the all new Terrano Sport Edition makes a bold statement and entry on the road. The sporty exteriors clubbed with the smart, luxurious dual tone interiors make it a great package for the customers who are looking for an SUV that complements their achievements and reflects their adventurous lifestyle.”

Terrano Sport edition comes with NissanConnect, an integrated information and communication platform that connects with the customer’s smartphone to provide an enhanced driving experience. This intelligent mobility package comes with 50+ features and 3 years of free services providing a combination of safety, security and convenience. Geo-fencing, Speed Alert, Curfew Alert, nearby pit stops, Locate My Car and Share My Car Location are some of its notable features.

The SUV takes forward standard Terrano style and comfort features, such as premium dual tone interior; 7.0 touchscreen navigation system; steering mounted audio/phone control; touch lane change indicator; dual-airbags; Daytime Running Lights, ABS and EBD with BA (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution with Braking Assistance).

Building on a remarkable 70-year racing pedigree, David Brabham has announced Brabham’s return to manufacturing at a gala event in central London, with the global launch of Brabham Automotive’s first product, the stunning BT62.

The Brabham BT62 continues the legendary ‘BT’ naming convention established by founders Jack Brabham and Ron Tauranac in the 1960s and honours the legacy of the marque’s greatest and most memorable cars.

With headline figures that point to the potency of the car, the new Brabham is pure-bred for the track and capable of setting blistering lap times. The BT62 boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 730PS per tonne, a dry weight of just 972kg and is powered by a Brabham naturally-aspirated 5.4 litre capacity V8 engine.

Heralding the start of an exciting new chapter for the iconic marque, the BT62 has been specifically designed, developed and tested to reward like no other. Designed from the ground-up and featuring a host of unique engineering details, the Brabham BT62 draws on the project team’s vast experience to create a car without equal. Crafted from lightweight carbon fibre, the BT62’s exterior surface and aggressive aerodynamic package combine to strike the optimal balance between function and form.

Celebrating the company’s proud Anglo-Australian roots, the launch took place at Australia House in London, home to the Australian High Commission, set amidst a breath-taking assembly of historic Brabham racing cars and memorabilia evoking memories and charting the remarkable successes of the marque’s illustrious past.

Speaking at the unveiling, Managing Director, David Brabham said, “It’s with great pride that I honour and continue my father’s legacy in revealing the next chapter in the evolving Brabham story. The team we have in place, and the vision it shares, provides a solid platform for Brabham Automotive to execute its long-term business strategy. Our first step to deliver on that strategy is the Brabham BT62, a car truly worthy of carrying the iconic Brabham name.”

The Brabham BT62 has been designed and engineered to demand more from its driver. It’s a car for those who want to challenge themselves and their limitations to experience driving in its purest form.

Those fortunate enough to own a Brabham BT62 will join the Brabham driver development programme, where their physical ability and determination will be raised to a place where the performance potential of both driver and vehicle can be fully exploited together as one.

With a base price of £1m plus local taxes, and before options, production of the Brabham BT62 will be limited to just seventy cars in recognition of Brabham’s 70-year heritage; the first 35 of which will celebrate the 35 Grand Prix victories won by Brabham over its thirty-year reign in Formula 1.

The Brabham BT62 unveiled on the night was liveried in celebration of Jack Brabham’s green and gold BT19 and his historic victory at the 1966 French Formula 1 Grand Prix at Reims, the year in which he made history in becoming the first (and to date only) driver to win a World Championship in a car of his own construction. First deliveries of the Brabham BT62 are expected later this year.

Led by multiple Le Mans winner, David Brabham, Brabham Automotive has been established as a manufacturer of high performance vehicles which challenge and reward the driver in equal measures.

With a long-term plan in place and a phased product development programme already underway, the company’s ultimate goal is to see the iconic Brabham name return once again to compete on the race track, with the 24 Hours of Le Mans firmly in its sights.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India at the launch of the all-new MINI Countryman

The all-new MINI Countryman was launched in India yesterday. Locally-produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the second-generation all-new MINI Countryman will be available in both petrol and diesel variants with deliveries beginning from June 2018 onwards.

The two petrol variants include the MINI Countryman Cooper S and MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired while the diesel variant includes the MINI Countryman Cooper SD.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The all-new MINI Countryman is built for adventure and an ideal companion for city trips to country getaways and long journeys. The second generation of the MINI Countryman represents a more distinctive and mature proposition of an ultimate all-rounder with ample space for you and your family. It is a perfect fit for an urban environment offering unique driving comfort, refined interiors and clever functionality. Every road marks the beginning of a new chapter, whether it’s a winding country road or the bustle of the city, now you can truly unleash your inner adventurer.”​

“MINI has been recognized for its ideas, inspiration and passion. We want to continue this successful story with a refined brand strategy and a visually-renewed identity. The latest redesign of MINI logo and showroom brings in a new chapter in the inspiring history of the brand. The purpose of reinventing ourselves is to become even closer to the MINI target group ideology that is progressive, creative and modern.” Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India further added.

MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired is equipped with John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit, rear roof spoiler and impressive 18-inch JCW thrill spoke alloy wheels. John Cooper Works influence continues in the illuminated cockpit with the JCW sports leather steering wheel. The car is equipped with premium features such as the ‘Leather Cross Punch’ Sport Seats, Harmon Kardon Hi-Fi Speaker System, MINI Find Mate and the MINI Wired Package. The MINI Wired Package includes Navigation System Professional and MINI Connected XL 8.8-inch screen with Touch Controller and Bluetooth mobile connectivity.

MINI Countryman Cooper SD features the Cooper SD engine for the first time in India that delivers 190 hp and 400 nm torque. With superior handling, no city corner or hill climb is a challenge. The Panorama Glass Roof and Electric Seat Adjustment with memory further adds convenience and driving fun.

MINI Countryman Cooper S offers more premium technology and design features than ever before. With the Automatic Tail Gate, Cruise Control, LED Headlight, Fog Light, Multifunction steering wheel, Centre armrest in front and rear and the Radio MINI Boost 6.5-inch as standard, the all-new MINI Countryman comes ready for any adventure.

The all-new MINI Countryman will be available in five colours: Island Blue, Light White, Chilli Red, Melting Silver and Thunder Grey as well as British Racing Green offered exclusively for the MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired.

The all-new MINI Countryman will be available with Leatherette Carbon Black as standard upholstery and Leather Cross Punch Carbon Black for the all-new MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired.

The ex-showroom prices (effective June 2018) of the three variants are as follows –

MINI Countryman Cooper S (Petrol) : Rs 34,90,000

MINI Countryman Cooper SD (Diesel) : Rs 37,40,000

MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired (Petrol) : Rs 41,40,000

TVS Motor Company has bagged top honors in J.D. Power 2018 India Two-Wheeler Customer Service Index (2WCSI), Two-Wheeler Initial Quality Study (2WIQS) and Two-Wheeler Automotive Product Execution & Layout (2WAPEAL) Study.

J.D. Power annually ranks the two-wheelers in terms of best in class product quality, best in class APEAL quality and best in class service quality through a detailed survey with over 10,000 customers.

TVS Motor Company has been ranked number No. 1 for the third consecutive year in the J.D. Power 2018 India Two-Wheeler Customer Service Index Study (2WCSI) for exceptional customer service. The 2018 India 2WCSI Study is based on evaluations from 7,436 two-wheeler owners in 45 cities across India.

In the 2WAPEAL Study, TVS products have been ranked No. 1 in each of the product category – TVS Jupiter in scooter segment, TVS Apache RTR 180 in motorcycle premium segment, and TVS Star City+ in motorcycle economy segment. The 2WIQS Study has ranked TVS Star City+ as best quality product in the economy segment.

“It is a special moment for TVS Motor Company to have bagged top honors in the J.D. Power 2018 study, including securing the 1st position in J.D Power India Two-Wheeler Customer Service Index Study 2018, for the third consecutive time. We endeavor to constantly strive and meet the evolving consumer needs and remain focused on providing a superior ownership experience for our customers. This recognition is a testimony to our efforts to deliver absolute customer delight through Total Quality Management. We would like to appreciate our dealers and their employees for consistently delivering best in class customer service”, commented KN Radhakrishnan, President & CEO, TVS Motor Company.

(Extreme left) Antony Cherian Kurian, General Manager, Centre of Excellence – Sales Production Capacity Planning System – Ford India along with US Consul General Craig Hall (extreme right) at the launch of Ford Freestyle in Kolkata

Ford India has announced the market launch of the much awaited all-new Ford Freestyle in Kolkata with prices starting from Rs 5.09 lakh for the base Ambiente petrol trim and Rs 6.09 lakh for the base Ambiente diesel variant. This global product from Ford combines SUV-like design ques, peppy drive and innovative technologies to target the young brigade who aspire to own a SUV-like vehicle in a compact size and a pocket friendly price.

The designers at Ford deserve a pat on the back to create a car that is both contemporary and dynamic in appearance. The Freestyle uses design elements common to SUVs, albeit in a more compact dimension. The Freestyle grille with three-dimensional mesh gives this car a sportier look. The front bumper has sculpted sections – that add to its SUV-like look and rigidity. While the skid plates on the front and rear, makes the car every bit the off-roader.

The 190 mm ground clearance helps the Freestyle to smoothly sail over the speed-bumps and undulations on the road without the fear of causing any damage to the under-carriage. The 15-inch tyres with stylish alloys wheels add to the masculine look of this cross-hatch.

Step inside, and the Ford Freestyle will welcome you with its dual tone interiors that looks elegant. The seats are well cushioned and provide good lumbar support. The passenger compartment is spacious with adequate leg room for both front and rear passengers. Like all Fords, the Freestyle has several storage compartments, more than 20 of them, to tuck away everything that you may need on your trips – from water bottles and munchies to your umbrellas and change to pay the toll – there is space for everything.

The Ford Freestyle will also feature Ford’s in-car infotainment system, SYNC 3 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen which allows drivers to control their entertainment and their connected smartphone with conversational voice commands. SYNC 3 system is also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible.

The Freestyle will come with a host of convenience features including, a reverse parking camera, keyless entry and a push start. The automatic climate control on the Freestyle is a chiller and capable of bringing cabin temperature down from upwards of 40-degrees to a comfortable 20-degrees, in less than 15-minutes.

Powering the Freestyle is Ford’s all-new, three-cylinder 1.2L TiVCT petrol engine that is small, light, and aims to combine performance with fuel efficiency. The naturally aspirated engine generates 96 PS of peak power and 120 Nm of torque to deliver a spirited drive and is sure to appeal to the young and the young-at-heart. Customers will continue to have a choice to opt for Ford’s tried and tested 1.5L TDCi diesel powertrain that generates 100 PS of peak power and 215 Nm of torque.

Both engines will be paired with an all-new, five-speed manual transmission that is slicker and more responsive. Ford claims that this new manual transmission is almost 15 per cent lighter and helps improve fuel economy while reducing NVH. According to the company, the new transmission requires 40 per cent lesser gear oil than its predecessor too.

The engineers at Ford has done a commendable job in achieving the right balance between ride quality and handling making the all-new Ford Freestyle a joy to drive. The suspension set up is well tuned for Indian road conditions and absorbs most undulation with relative ease. The all-new Ford Freestyle stays firmly grounded while making sharp turns at corners and has no body roll.

Both engines will be paired with an all-new, five-speed manual transmission that is slicker and more responsive. Ford claims that this new manual transmission is almost 15 per cent lighter and helps improve fuel economy while reducing NVH. According to the company, the new transmission requires 40 per cent lesser gear oil than its predecessor too.

Ford has been championing the cause of safety in their vehicle for some time now and has introduced the Active Rollover Prevention (ARP) with the Freestyle. The system works with Electronic Stability Control and applies brakes on relevant wheels to decrease engine torque and help prevent any potential rollover situations.

The Freestyle also comes equipped with other safety features like TCS, ABS with EBD, hill launch assist and EPAS among others. In addition to this the Freestyle also comes with standard dual airbags across the variant line-up. For those looking for greater safety, Freestyle will offer up to six airbags on top Titanium+ trim.

The Freestyle will be available in six colours, including a new White Gold, Canyon Ridge, Moondust Silver, Oxford White, Smoke Grey and Absolute Black.

Ford Freestyle Ex-Showroom Prices: 

Ambiente :  Rs 509,000 (Petrol); Rs 609,000 (Diesel)

Trend:   Rs 599,000 (Petrol); Rs 699,000 (Diesel)

Titanium – Rs 639,000 (Petrol); Rs 735,000 (Diesel)

Titanium+ Rs 694,000 (Petrol); Rs 789,000 (Diesel)