On Sunday, January 28, all roads led to The Lake Club as the EIMG Concours d’Elegance 2024 set the City of Joy ablaze with 95 scintillating exotic vehicles which took part in this annual heritage event. Now in this third edition, the event was organised by Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) in collaboration with The Lake Club and supported by ACE Commercial.
With the majestic Rabindra Sarobar in the backdrop, clear blue sky above, the sprawling green lawn of the The Lake Club made for the perfect setting for a memorable rendezvous with motoring heritage.
The icing on the cake was the seven beautiful Rolls-Royces which adorned the club lawns like seven spectacular jewels. Keeping them company was a century old Stoewer, the oldest entrant of this year’s Concours. The car has served four generations of Chowdhury family, namely Ishwar Chandra, Shantinath, Pratap and now Ananda who has maintained this car in pristine condition.
A 1938 Rolls-Royce 20/25 owned by vintage car connoisseur Avik Naha made its debut at this year’s Concours d’Elegance. This stunningly beautiful car had everyone drooling in admiration. This Rolls is a real stunner and prized possession of its owner.
The 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe once driven by legendary singer and composer Hemanta Mukhopadhyay and now owned by SK Lahiri was another beauty on display. The Lahiri family bought this car in the early 1970s and thoroughly restored it. Fondly referred to as ‘Nilu’, the car is meticulously maintained till date.
Saurjya Pratim Mitra’s brilliantly restored 1937 Ford 7W10 invited admiration and envy in equal measure. Rajiv Ghosh’s 1932 Ford V8, also referred to as The Ladybird also participated in this year’s Concours. A brilliant car which once belonged to Justice JP Mitter has been the proud possession of the Ghosh family and immaculately restored by the legendary Sanjay Ghosh.
A rare German car Adler manufactured in 1938 was proved to be a huge crowd puller. Presently owned by former top cop Mr. Gadai Chandra Dey, this car has a fascinating history. It was buried after the owner of the vehicle heard in 1939 that it would be acquisitioned by the American Army for its officers serving USA during World War II. It was later salvaged in 1965 and completely restored.
A 1963 Triumph Spitfire which was once owned by Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff has always been a popular car in the Kolkata circuit, much like its debonair owner Saikat Dutta. A Ford Anglia whose reference one gets in the writings of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter also evoked admiration from the visitors. Once owned by ace footballer Subhas Bhowmick, this car is presently the prized possession of Amritendu Roy.
Other noteworthy vehicles which took part in The Lake Club EIMG Concours d’Elegance 2024 were Avik Naha’s 1948 Buick Super 8, Siddharth Swarup’s 1947 Wolseley 14, Indrajit Sircar’s 1957 Wolseley 6/90, Sourajit Pal Choudhuri’s 1928 Ford Model A, Sarmistha Hazra’s 1965 Hillman Imp, Prithvi Nath Tagore’s 1958 Mercedes-Benz 180 A and Sarojesh Mukerjee’s 1959 Ford Zephyr.
The two-wheeler section had as many as 14 participants among which Terence Lobo’s 1940 Triumph 3HW, Chandan Basu Mallik’s 1950 Norton Dominator, Lt. Col. Nitin Shrestha’s 1937 Arial Red Hunter deserve special mention.
Four immaculately restored Rolls-Royces along with a 1931 Chevrolet belonging to the Shrivardhan Kanoria Collection were also exhibited in the Concours. While these beauties weren’t entered in the competition, however, they added a touch of elegance and aristocracy to the event.
The heritage vehicles were judged by Shrivardhan Kanoria and his Concourz Restoration Team on the basis of Authenticity, Restoration, Maintenance, Historical Importance, and Rarity.
List of Winners:
Cars Built Upto 1930 – 1930 Plymouth Type 30U – Arijit Dutta
Cars Built From 1931 to 1940 – 1932 Ford V8 – Rajiv Ghosh
Cars Built From 1941 to 1950 – 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe – SK Lahiri
Cars Built From 1951 to 1975 – 1958 Mercedes-Benz 180 A- Prithvi Nath Tagore
Vintage Two Door Cars – 1937 Opel Cabrio – Rajiv Ghosh
Classic Two Door Cars – 1947 MG TC – Himanshu Ajmera
Indian Heritage Cars – 1958 Standard Vanguard – Sarojesh Mukerjee
Two Wheelers – 1937 Arial Red Hunter – Lt. Col. Nitin Shrestha
Oldest Car Award – 1913 Stoewer – Ananda Chowdhury
Oldest Two Wheeler Award – 1923 Panther Sloper – Afzal Hossain
Preservation Award – 1947 Wolseley 14 – Siddharth Swarup
Restoration Award – 1937 Ford 7W10 – Saurjya Pratim Mitra
Resurrection Award – 1957 Wolseley 6/90 – Indrajit Sircar
Admirable Award – 1938 Rolls-Royce 25/30 – Avik Naha
Judge’s Choice Award – 1968 Fiat Delight – Rajiv Ghosh
Special Car Award – 1937 Rolls-Royce 25/30 – S.K. Karnani & ORS (HUF)
The latest in an iconic bloodline, Aston Martin is proud to introduce the new Vantage. The quintessential Aston Martin sports car and the most driver focused and fastest Vantage in the famous nameplate’s 74-year history, it is an authentic, unadulterated celebration of pure performance, engineered to deliver maximum thrills with maximum confidence.
A design refocused through a contemporary lens, Vantage champions the qualities that have gripped enthusiasts for generations but are increasingly hard to find in today’s sports car market. As such Vantage makes a stand for disenfranchised devotees of breathtaking power, razor-sharp handling and the perfect balance of a finely-tuned front-engine, rear-wheel drive chassis.
The announcement of a new Vantage follows the successful introduction last year of the acclaimed DB12 Coupe and Volante. Further strengthening Aston Martin’s next generation of sports cars, Vantage reaffirms the brands position in the ultra-luxury, performance sports car market alongside its leading roles in the ultra-luxury sporting GT, SUV and hypercar arenas, and the highest echelons of world championship motorsport.
The new generation Vantage continues a remarkable lineage that can be traced back to 1950, when the Vantage name was first used to denote an uprated engine package for the race-proven DB2. The first time Vantage was applied as a model designation was in 1964, when a high-performance Vantage-badged version of the DB5 became the new flagship of the range. A standalone Vantage model was introduced in the early 1970s, from which point the nameplate has played an increasingly prominent role in Aston Martin’s model line-up. Synonymous with immaculate style, unforgettable performance and inimitable character, Vantage embodies the sporting qualities for which this evocative name has become renowned.
This new Vantage reflects the most dynamic period in Aston Martin’s 111-year history. A formidable force in the 2023 Formula One season, a dominant presence in international GT racing, where Vantage has a rich history as the most successful endurance GT racer and – with the recent announcement of Aston Martin’s quest for outright victory in the Le Mans 24 Hours race with the Valkyrie AMR in 2025 – a front-line challenger in the World Endurance Championship.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Amedeo Felisa, said: “As we enter a period of pivotal change in the world of high-performance cars it is essential to remain true to those qualities upon which a legendary marque has been built. Any car bearing the Vantage name has much to live-up to, which is why this newest model makes an unwavering commitment to high-performance in its purest and most explicit form. Class-leading power and speed establish its credentials, but it is through expert application of the latest technologies to the Vantage’s perfectly balanced front-engine rear-drive chassis that we have created a sports car with addictive capability. Together with assertive styling, all-new interior and state-of-the-art infotainment, Vantage is world-class in every respect”.
Performance – huge gains in engine output deliver next-level potency Powered by a heavily reworked, hand-built 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine the new Vantage is the fastest in the nameplate’s history. With peaks of 665PS and a colossal 800Nm of torque it also makes the biggest-ever jump in power and torque compared to the model it succeeds, those increases of 155PS and 115Nm equating to gains of 30% and 15% respectively.
These higher outputs have been achieved through extensive tuning by Aston Martin engineers, the adoption of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling yielding the impressive new figures and creating an engine with a sharper, more visceral and more vocal character.
Mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission this is enough to propel the two-seater sports car to a top speed of 202mph and punch it from a standstill to 60mph in just 3.4sec. Both the shortened Final Drive Ratio (3.083:1) and transmission shift calibration have been honed to maximise response and enjoyment, the former delivering punchier in-gear acceleration, while the latter reduces shift speeds and offers different shift characteristics to suit each of the Vantage’s dynamic modes.
Standing start acceleration has been perfected with the introduction of a new Launch Control system. Fully integrated with the powertrain, transmission and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), when engaged by the driver, Launch Control allows the car to deploy as much torque as conditions allow, using the E-Diff, ESP slip control and engine torque management to keep wheel slip in the optimal range throughout the launch. The driver can also dial-in the precise amount of slip they desire during the launch by making changes via the Adjustable Traction Control (ATC) system – reducing or increasing the amount of controlled wheelspin permitted by the Launch Control System or allowing themselves full throttle control by setting the ATC to Traction Control (TC) Off.
Liberating additional engine performance has increased thermal load, which has required a complete redesign of the engine cooling system. To ensure stable intake air temperatures are achieved in all conditions, an additional low temperature radiator has been fitted to the charge cooler water circuit, with a further two auxiliary coolers added to the existing central main radiator to further increase thermal capacity.
The oil system has also benefitted from extensive upgrades, with the auxiliary outboard engine oil cooler now boasting twice the face area of its predecessor. Thermal airflow has also been boosted with a 50% increase in the volume of cold air reaching the radiators.
Handling & dynamics Part 1: – Highly evolved bonded aluminium structure, perfect 50:50 weight distribution and state-of-the-art suspension provide the foundation for a definitive driving experience
Highly evolved aluminium structure, perfect 50:50 weight distribution and state-of-the-art suspension provide the foundation for a definitive driving experience. Built around Aston Martin’s latest generation bonded aluminium construction, Vantage features an enhanced body structure to deliver more focused and engaging dynamics thanks to additional underbody stiffening components for increased overall torsional rigidity.
Amongst these changes are a re-engineered and re-positioned front body cross member, which has been moved rearwards to increase mounting point stiffness for the double-wishbone front suspension for improved on and off-centre steering feel. Further improvements have been achieved with the fitment of a stiffer-yet-lighter front engine cross brace for increased torsional rigidity and lateral stiffness between the front suspension towers.
At the rear, Vantage benefits from a 29% increase in stiffness under cornering load due to increased lateral strengthening between the rear suspension towers. Together with revisions to front and rear undertrays for greater lateral stiffness, the combined improvements in front and rear mounting stiffness for the dampers mean tangible gains in precision, handling balance and driver feedback, together with an overall uplift in refinement.
This feeling of immediacy, control and connection is further boosted by new intelligent adaptive dampers. With a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution over previous generation hardware these state-of-the-art dampers have an immense range of control and speed of response, which has allowed Aston Martin’s vehicle attributes engineers to sharpen the Vantage’s dynamics to their keenest possible edge.
Precise calibration of the dampers has given the Vantage an inherently sporting feel while leaving room to introduce progressive tighter body control as the driver explores the range of dynamic modes. Combined with the E-Diff and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Vantage has the capability to adapt from the demands of a challenging alpine road to wide-open race track at the push of a button and twist of a switch.
Obsessive attention has been paid to the Vantage’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS). The fitment of a non-isolated steering column means steering inputs from the driver are direct and uncorrupted, while the flow of information from the road is granular in detail and pleasingly tactile.
The EPAS has a constant 12.8:1 ratio rack with variable, speed sensitive assistance and 2.27 turns lock-to-lock. This variable level of assistance is integrated with the Vantage’s dynamic mode programmes, the level of assistance reducing incrementally as the driver works their way towards the most aggressive mode (Track).
Steering response and front-end grip has been further enhanced by ‘AML’ coded Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres made specifically for the Vantage. Measuring 275/35 R21 (103Y) front and 325/30 R21 (108Y) rear they feature a bespoke compound and have been tuned by the Aston Martin dynamics team to suit the super-sharp response, high grip levels and progressive breakaway characteristics expected from the most driver-focussed model in the Aston Martin range.
Vantage features 21” forged alloy wheels as standard. Measuring 9.5J front and 11.5J rear the structure of these lightweight wheels has been designed using simulation tools to remove every gram of excess mass without compromising strength or aesthetics. There is a choice of three different designs – standard Five-Spoke and optional Multi-Spoke and Y-Spoke – in a range of colours and finishes, including Satin Bronze, first introduced on DB12.
Vantage is fitted as standard with cast-iron 400mm front discs and 360mm rear discs with drilled faces for improved heat management and fade resistance. The brake booster has also been re-tuned compared to the outgoing mode to give the driver greater confidence thanks to a firm pedal, with a perfect blend of immediate stopping power and progressive response.
Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) can be specified on Vantage as an option. Offering increased braking performance and reduced brake fade at temperatures of up to 800 °C, fitting CCB also saves 27kg in unsprung mass compared to the cast-iron braking system, which in turn improves ride quality and steering response.
Handling & dynamics Part 2: State-of-the-art Active Vehicle Dynamics control system for exceptional control and unmistakable character
As befits its role as the most sporting model in the range, Aston Martin engineers have maximized the benefits of the Vantage’s outstanding chassis architecture with the very latest electronic systems to maximise performance and create an unmistakable dynamic character. Focused on achieving increased agility and sharper steering response while bringing more precision, consistency and more detailed feedback for greater confidence and connection, the result is a car that welcomes real drivers in and invites them to explore the limits. It will reward skilled driving but doesn’t depend upon it to deliver a thrilling experience.
Key to the Vantage’s intensified handling character is an advanced vehicle dynamics control system. This takes information from multiple car and driver sensors such as the 6-axis accelerometer, powertrain, braking system and E-Diff sensors to build a detailed picture of exactly what the car is doing and apply it to overall management of the ESP system. Taking that information and comparing it against model-based Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Estimation (IVE) parameters, the ESP can then actively control the three key pillars of the vehicle dynamics system (ride, handling and steering) to optimise vehicle response and handling behaviour in all weathers, on road and track.
This new generation system employs a state-of-the-art 6D-IMU, or Inertial Measurement Unit, which combines monitoring of Surge (moving forward/backward), Heave (moving up/down) and Sway (moving left/right) with Roll (tilting side-to-side), Pitch (tilting forward/backwards) and Yaw (turning left/right). By simultaneously tracking the car’s movements and rate of acceleration in all six axes the degree and rate of ESP intervention is always perfectly judged.
Power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff). Unlike a conventional Limited Slip Differential, it actively augments stability in conjunction with the ESP, allowing precise and immediate control for optimized traction, consistent handling and enhanced agility. The E-Diff can go from zero to full lock in 135ms and can react as quickly as 60ms when needed as a vehicle dynamics modifier.
Integrated Brake Slip Control (IBC) uses the latest generation ABS control system to not only optimize stopping distances but apply Brake Slip Vectoring to get the car poised for corner entry. Integrated Traction Control (ITC) combines management of engine, brake and E-Diff to provide predictive slip control for optimum traction together with Traction Slip Vectoring for the perfect amount of traction on corner exit. Finally, Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVC) acts on the brakes, powertrain and E-Diff to manage the ESP to optimize balance and handling at the limits of driving dynamics, improve dynamic characteristics for all driving styles and provide predictive activation for smoother ESP interventions.
Working in harmony with the latest generation ESP the E-Diff adapts its behaviour according to the type of corner, helping the Vantage rotate into tighter turns to exploit its super-sharp front-end response, but remain composed and confidence inspiring through high-speed curves when stability is paramount.
Although there is an obvious safety function, the new ESP is tuned to serve as a performance aid, not a performance limiter. A perfect example of this – and something new for the Vantage – is Adjustable Traction Control (ATC). In addition to a choice of Wet, On and Track ESP modes, ATC disables the ESP’s yaw control function, so there is no off-throttle assistance, but a level of traction control is maintained – the precise amount being selected by the driver via ATC’s rotary switch.
Once accessed, ATC starts in mid-position 5 as a default but the driver can incrementally reduce or increase the amount of permitted wheel slip. Stepping down from 4 to 1 helps to keep the car more stable on-throttle. Typical use scenarios would be to help manage hot tyres on a track or in more difficult track conditions (i.e. wet), but it is equally effectively in helping the driver to build confidence with ESP Off before moving to the higher slip settings accessed in positions 5-8.
When position 5 is selected engine torque is modulated to control slip at a level to allow a fast clean lap to be driven. Oversteer can be achieved and driver should react accordingly. Levels 6-8 allow the driver to increase the wheel slip with the yaw control off and therefore reducing on-throttle stability. The modes enable a driver to develop their skills to gradually learn the vehicle behaviour in high slip angles before switching to TC Off, which allows the driver complete freedom to control the car with their throttle and steering inputs alone.
Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, said “The art of creating a truly great sports car in 2024 is applying cutting-edge technology in a way that enhances and intensifies the driving experience yet does nothing to remove the driver from the process of driving. Vantage will make headlines for the huge increases in power and torque over the outgoing model, but it’s the vivid way in which it deploys such immense performance that will seduce enthusiasts and purists. With a perfectly balanced front-engined rear-wheel drive chassis aided by industry-leading Active Vehicle Dynamics, it combines outright capability with progression and exploitability. Matched by muscular styling and completed by an all-new ultra-luxury interior packed with the latest connected technology and infotainment, it is the perfect contemporary interpretation of a time-honoured legend”.
Exterior styling – A muscular physique and unmistakable presence From the first glimpse you know the new generation Vantage is a game-changer. A body standing 30mm wider with a more muscular stance is accentuated by a completely redesigned front-end featuring a 38% larger recontoured veined grille aperture, offering 29% increase in mass airflow for additional cooling. Further cooling intakes set into the bumper either side of the grille sharpen the front-end’s features, while the new integrated splitter, with a wider and lower stance, adds drama as well as aerodynamic function, providing high speed stability through lift reduction. This distinctive front-end treatment is completed by all-new Matrix LED headlamp design with integrated DRLs, featuring Aston Martin’s new light signature.
Elsewhere the new Vantage sees a return of the iconic Aston Martin side strake, which now forms the sharp focal point of revised vents in each flank. Standard-fit 21in forged alloy wheels fill the wider wheel arches to perfection, creating a purposeful stance that exudes power and poise in equal measure. Frameless door mirrors and presenting door handles are also new to Vantage, while a wider rear bumper incorporating side vents and larger diameter quad exhaust tailpipes ensure the Vantage looks as dramatic from the rear as it does from the front.
Vantage owners can enhance the sporting character of Vantage even further, by selecting one of three core livery designs. Available in 21 colors, a client can choose to add a Pinstripe, Pinstripe and Lipstick or Pinstripe, Lipstick and Rear infill.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, adds: “Aston Martin is blessed with many evocative model names, but none conjure excitement and dynamism like Vantage. To capture the new car’s huge uplift in power and performance we have accentuated its physique, increasing its muscularity and sharpening its sculptural form. We took some inspiration from the One-77 supercar, but we wanted Vantage to express its intent and potency more explicitly. One look and you know it packs a real punch, but there’s an elegance of form and proportion that hints at the sophistication that underpins its raw power. This balance of instant visual impact and slow-burn charisma mirrors the driving experience and perfectly captures the essence of Vantage”.
Like all Aston Martin models, Vantage customers can explore endless bespoke and customisation possibilities via the Q by Aston Martin personalisation service. Enlisting the skills of Q’s designers and crafts people, customers take an unforgettable personal commissioning journey that can encompass everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components to create a true one-off.
Interior craft & technology – sporting ambience, supreme luxury Vantage is a hardcore sports car at heart, but this doesn’t mean it makes sacrifices when it comes to design, comfort or equipment levels. The new generation Vantage makes a breathtaking statement with an all-new ultra-luxury interior defined by flawless architectural lines, swathed in the finest materials and packed with state-of-the-art connected technology and a stunning surround sound system developed by audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins.
Clean, unbroken lines create a striking yet elegant environment inside the Vantage cockpit, delivering a sense of space and clarity for the driver. From the slender air vents and perfectly integrated infotainment screen to the clearly defined array of physical switches on the lower section of the centre console, the new Vantage interior is a triumph of functional beauty and tactile quality.
Supple, aromatic hand-stitched Bridge of Weir hides create a cosseting, comfortable space, but the driving position, super-supportive sports seats and driver-focused ergonomics add an effortless functionality that underpins the opulence and adds to the enjoyment of every journey.
Vantage is fitted as standard with the Aston Martin 390w 11 speaker audio system. Developed utilising advanced hardware, this system features a Surround sound mode with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for an immersive soundscape.
However, true audiophiles will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the Vantage’s interior volume and shape, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins’ acclaimed world-class loudspeakers.
Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum® midrange speakers give this 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Dedicated 3D headline speakers and a powerful subwoofer deliver a sound experience as dynamic and potent as the Vantage itself.
Vantage is the second model to feature Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment. Created in-house and first introduced in DB12, it is entirely bespoke and developed in-house from scratch. Supplemented by a new Aston Martin customer connectivity app which supports iOS and Android devices, it allows interaction, control and feedback to and from the customer’s Vantage via their personal device.
A fully integrated multi-screen system with full online connectivity, it features 10.25” Pure Black touchscreen technology with full capacitive single and multi-finger gesture control. Touchscreen commands are balanced with the positive tactility of physical switches, with buttons retained for the key mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation. There are also override switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Lane Assist and Park Distance Control, ensuring the most used controls can be operated intuitively and without the need to take your eyes off the road.
The Vantage navigation system features online connectivity for a smarter, quicker and more informative experience. Online connection enables the driver to simply look up their favourite restaurant, read the reviews and chose it as a destination. Or, if more convenient, choose a destination in the Aston Martin app and simply send it to their Vantage ahead of travel.
The new 3D mapping gives intuitive, clear instruction with lane guidance and real time traffic overlays. Connected dynamic routing ensures unnecessary delays. Satellite view dynamically downloaded to visualise the surrounding area as you drive.
For pinpoint accuracy anywhere in the world, Vantage’s navigation system and the new Aston Martin connected app are both set up to feature fully integrated WHAT3WORDS destination input. Wireless Apple CarPlay will also be supported by Vantage for drivers who prefer to use navigation apps via their mobile device.
The Vantage’s infotainment system is built around online connectivity and an all-new companion Aston Martin app; functionality that enables Vantage owners to communicate, interact and engage with their car.
Online connectivity will assist the ownership experience through increased ease of use, peace of mind and opportunity to update and upgrade vehicle features from the comfort and safety of their mobile phone. An ever-expanding system, Aston Martin Connected Car will continue to evolve as Products, Services and support for vehicles evolves.
This all-new connected car ecosystem utilises three key elements – the Vantage, the Aston Martin app and Aston Martin’s secure data servers. These three elements connect through globally roaming 4G LTE / GSM cellular networks via the embedded e-SIM in Vantage, which is provided and funded by Aston Martin. The Aston Martin app is hosted by an onboard personal device and associated data contract. Personal data is protected by the latest industry standards of cyber security and cloud protection.
When purchasing their new Vantage, owners are invited to enroll in the new Aston Martin app and create their own unique AML ID. Available on iOS and Android, the app offers a range of connected car subscription packages that are free for the first 3-years and designed to maximise the Aston Martin ownership experience.
Personalised content specific to their vehicle is presented in clear and intuitive screens that seamlessly match the new UI/UX of the infotainment system. From the app, customers can monitor, locate and protect their vehicle and they can also manage their account details and share in the community of Aston Martin owners through integrated media feeds.
Production of the Vantage is due to commence in Q1 of 2024, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q2 2024. The second of Aston Martin’s Next Generation of sportscars, new Vantage sets a new benchmark of driving purity, for drivers who relish in a challenge a fast sports car represents. Aston Martin Vantage, Engineered for Real Drivers.
BMW Motorrad commences its most awaited training program – GS Experience Level 1, 2024 in India. The GS Experience presents an opportunity for riders to discover the extraordinary prowess of BMW Motorrad’s iconic GS series, perfectly suited to its natural terrain. This exclusive, two-day event offers a bespoke training program tailored specifically for owners of BMW’s adventure motorcycles, promising a deep dive into the world-class capabilities of the legendary GS range.
BMW Motorrad will host this two-day immersive training for GS owners across 13 cities – Pune, Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Indore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Chennai, Lucknow, Kochi, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Chandigarh.
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India, said, “The GS is not just a motorcycle, it’s a beacon of adventure. BMW Motorrad is reshaping the landscape of adventure biking in India, and the indomitable Spirit of GS is leading the charge. Our GS Experience is more than just a riding program; it’s a gateway for adventure enthusiasts nationwide. Tailored to suit all riding styles, this course is meticulously designed to refine your skills, boost your confidence, and amplify the joy of riding. Guided by our trainers from BMW Motorrad International Instructor Academy, participants will unlock the full potential of adventure riding and conquer every challenge with their GS, fully equipped to explore the thrilling world of adventure motorcycling.”
Designed exclusively for BMW GS owners, the two-day level 1 program will help riders to master basics of off-road riding. The day 1 training program is for BMW GS owners of 650 cc and above GS bikes. While the day 2 is for BMW 310 GS riders. The training includes basic familiarity of the motorcycle, understanding of correct rider position, enduro steering and other exercises such as off-road riding, emergency stops on slope, emergency braking and riding on inclines. Riders automatically qualify for level 2 training upon successful completion of level 1.
The GS Experience showcases the dynamic qualities of each GS model in real-world conditions and techniques to enjoy the Spirit of GS while ensuring highest safety. Each session includes a briefing and demonstration by BMW Motorrad IIA (BMW Motorrad International Instructor Academy) certified trainers, that will take riders through the impressive array of technologies available on the GS range of motorcycles. The sessions offer riding experience on a combination of bitumen and off-road under expert supervision.
Škoda Auto has published exterior sketches of the refreshed Octavia. The fourth modern generation continues the legacy of the brand’s iconic model, which has achieved over seven million sales since its launch in 1996. This latest iteration introduces a refined exterior with new headlights, redesigned bumpers, and an updated Škoda grille. The digital global premiere is set for February 14, 2024.
For the Octavia’s latest update, Škoda has redesigned the bumpers and the grille. At the same time, the headlights come with sharpened contours, lending the bestseller an even more striking and sporty appearance. A fresh look and new features, such as second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights complement the upgrade.
Refined optical details Now in its fourth generation, the Octavia is set to receive its facelift four years after the start of production. The model will continue to be available as both a hatchback and estate. Additionally, the refreshed series will include Sportline and vRS versions. The vehicle’s enhancements include advanced, second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights with a new lighting signature, designed to provide superior illumination of the road. Additionally, they now incorporate Crystallinium, a unique crystalline element that imparts a distinctive blue hue to the interior of the headlight housing, further refining the vehicle’s aesthetic.
The Octavia’s success story The refreshed Octavia is poised to continue the success of the model range: More than seven million units have been delivered to customers since the first modern generation was launched in 1996. Holding the title of Europe’s most popular estate car since 2016, the Octavia has earned numerous awards and accolades from the international automotive press, including the renowned Red Dot Award for outstanding product design in 2020 – the third win for the series.
Goodwood is proud to announce that the exceptional career of John Surtees – to this day the only person to win World Championships on two and four wheels – will be celebrated at this year’s Goodwood Revival, taking place over the weekend of 6-8 September.
2024 marks 60 years since Surtees won his Formula 1 World Championship, and would have seen the eight-time World Champion celebrate his 90th birthday, this coming Sunday, 11 February.
Reflecting a truly extraordinary motorsport career – which included seven motorcycle World Championships between 1956 and 1960, the 1964 Formula 1 World Championship, and the 1966 Can-Am Championship – the tribute to John Surtees will include everything from 250cc, 350cc and 500cc motorcycles to Grand Prix winners, unlimited sports cars and GTs. In April, the 81st Members’ Meeting will assemble an incredible array of Can-Am cars, Surtees having won the inaugural championship with his eponymous team in 1966.
John Surtees is a key figure in the annals of Goodwood’s unique motorsport history. It was at Goodwood that he tested a car for the first time, in 1959. The following year, it was here that he made his four-wheeled debut in a Formula Junior Cooper, racing for Ken Tyrrell, at the 39th Members’ Meeting in March 1960, finishing a close second to none other than Jim Clark.
That 1960 season was remarkable. Having taken part in his first race on four wheels in March, he made his F1 debut in May, scored his first podium with second place at the British Grand Prix in July, and his first pole position at the Portuguese Grand Prix in August! All while fitting in around his two-wheeled commitments, where he won the 350cc and 500cc World Championships for MV Agusta!
In 1993, Surtees became a Patron of the very first Festival of Speed, utilising his extensive contacts to organise the motorcycle classes for the event and riding his 1952 Vincent up the Hill. Returning to race at the early Goodwood Revivals, ‘Big John’ entertained a new generation of Goodwood motorsport fans, as fiercely competitive in the RAC TT Celebration as he had been on the Circuit during its heyday.
Shortly after his passing in March 2017, the 75th Members’ Meeting paid a moving tribute to Surtees, on the anniversary to the day of that first race in 1960, with a minute’s noise reverberating through the paddocks and The Duke of Richmond leading a commemorative lap in a Team Surtees Lola T70.
We now look forward to honouring the remarkable achievements of an enormously talented driver and rider, as well as the life and legacy of a great friend of Goodwood.
Doug Nye, motorsport historian, co-founder of the Festival of Speed and friend of Goodwood, said: “John Surtees was simply unique. Despite having spent my entire adult life amongst such ultra-competitive racers as Stirling Moss, Jack Brabham, Jackie Stewart and many more, he was the most competitive personality of them all! He won motorcycling World titles seven times, and the Formula 1 Driver’s World Championship once. On a motorcycle he was magic to watch, just man and machine merged into one – while in a car he took no prisoners yet was still visibly a master – a total perfectionist. From first sampling a racing car at Goodwood in 1959-60 he became one of our first Festival of Speed Patrons in 1993. He was – on two wheels and four – a total star.”
The Duke of Richmond, said: “As an eight-time World Champion and the only man to achieve the honour on both two and four wheels, John Surtees was not only a huge figure in the history of the Goodwood motor circuit, but also played a big part in the establishment of our modern events. Along with Stirling Moss, John was a Patron of the Festival of Speed and was deeply involved from the very beginning. More than anything, he was an exceptional racer and a great friend.”
Taking place across the weekend, the Surtees tribute will join the full race schedule which is set to run exclusively on sustainable fuels.
After setting a record for the highest first-day bookings in its segment, India’s Kia Seltos continues its winning streak, surpassing over 100,000 bookings since its launch in July 2023. During this period, the company has received 13,500 bookings (approximately) every month. The starting price for the New Seltos in India is INR 10.99 lakhs (ex-showroom). Since its initial launch in August 2019, Kia has manufactured over 6 lakhs Seltos units in India, with nearly 75% sold in the domestic market. In 2023, Kia sold a total of 1.04 lakhs units of the Seltos.
The automatics emerged as the top choices among Seltos’ new-age customers, comprising nearly 50% of the total bookings. With growing awareness of advanced Active Safety features, approximately 40% of buyers are expressing strong interest in variants equipped with ADAS. Seltos booking trends mirror the enduring preference for sunroofs among Indian customers, with 80% of Seltos buyers opting for this feature. The ratio of petrol to diesel bookings also remains healthy at 58:42. The premium appeal of the Seltos is evident in the booking preferences, with 80% of buyers inclined towards owning the top variants.
Commenting on Seltos success, Mr. Myung-sik Sohn, Chief Sales & Business Officer, Kia India, said, “We are excited about the market success of the new Seltos. Undoubtedly, it stands out as one of the smartest SUV choices available, and the response from our customers resonates with this sentiment. The New Seltos is helping us consolidate our market leadership consistently in the mid-SUV segment. We are actively realigning our manufacturing processes to ensure that our customers gain access to their favourite SUVs as swiftly as possible. We are thankful to all Seltos and Kia fans in India who support and inspire us to do better with every product.”
The Jeep brand is celebrating another year of firsts in 2024, preparing to launch its first global battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and expanding its lineup of legendary SUVs. Meet the all-new, all-electric premium Jeep Wagoneer S, which will be sold in the U.S. in the fall of 2024 and then in key markets around the world.
Offered exclusively as a BEV, the Jeep Wagoneer S offers standard 4xe capability with all-terrain management, advanced Jeep brand-focused technology and impressive performance credentials, including 600 horsepower and a lightning fast 0-60 mph time of around 3.5 seconds. Driven by aerodynamic efficiency, its sleek exterior design is uniquely marked by a reimagined LED-lit class- exclusive seven-slot Jeep brand grille.
The new Jeep Wagoneer S is part of the Jeep brand’s ongoing global electrification initiative that is transforming 4xe into the new 4×4 in pursuit of the brand’s vision of accomplishing Zero Emission Freedom. The plan is in full support of Stellantis’ ambition to become a carbon net zero corporation by 2038 as outlined in the company’s Dare Forward 2030 long-term strategic plan.
In 2021, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars made a historic announcement that would shape the marque’s history forever. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars declared its commitment to electric technology by both announcing Spectre, an all-electric car with first customer deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2023, and that by the end of 2030, the marque’s entire portfolio would be fully electric. Since this significant moment in the storied history of Rolls-Royce, Spectre has been on a remarkable journey, including completing a highly demanding testing programme, spanning 2.5 million kilometres. Last October, Spectre was unveiled to the world at the Home of Rolls-Royce in West Sussex, England, and response from across the globe has been overwhelmingly positive.
Now, ahead of first client deliveries later this year, Spectre made its India debut on January 19 in New Delhi. The world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé, on a regional tour, is being shown to clients and media alike, providing a look into Rolls-Royce’s electric future.
Spectre heralds the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and the start of the marque’s all-electric era. Spectre represents a promise made, a prophecy kept and a remarkable undertaking. Spectre demonstrates how perfectly Rolls-Royce is suited to electrification. By the end of 2030, its entire product portfolio will be fully electric.
The marque has a long-standing connection with electric technologies; in 1900, Rolls-Royce co-founder Charles Rolls prophesised an electric future for the motor car. Having experienced an electric vehicle named The Columbia Electric Carriage, he foresaw the technology’s suitability as a clean, noiseless alternative to the internal combustion engine – providing there was sufficient infrastructure to support it. In 2011, Rolls-Royce showcased a fully electric Experimental Phantom concept named 102EX. This was followed by 103EX, a dramatic design study that anticipated a bold electric future for the marque.
Yadur Kapur, Dealer Principal, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars New Delhi, “We are delighted to celebrate the debut of Rolls-Royce Spectre in North India, the most anticipated model in the history of the Rolls-Royce marque. There is excitement in India as its arrival is well timed to meet the needs of a growing, young, entrepreneurial customer base and continued demand for luxury. With its highly contemporary design and delightful Bespoke interior, combined with true engineering substance and innovation, there can be no doubt that Spectre is a true Rolls-Royce. Rolls-Royce’s Spectre is an all-electric super-coupé at the pinnacle of the luxury market. I am delighted to have the opportunity to showcase this remarkable motor car in New Delhi and to facilitate a new electric era for the brand.”
Volvo Car India has reached the milestone of having produced ten thousand cars in India at its Bangalore facility. It was in 2017 that the company commenced assembly operations with the ever-popular XC90 being the first car to be assembled and rolled out. Till date the highest production has been of the XC60 with 4000+ numbers. The honour of being the ten thousandth car goes to the company’s first Pure electric offering the “XC40 recharge”.
“It is indeed a matter of pride for the company to have reached this milestone in short span of time in spite of nearly three years of pandemic disruptions. The steady increase of capacities at Bangalore reflects our commitment to India’s luxury mobility segment. The honour of being the ten thousandth car goes to our first Pure electric offering, XC40 Recharge which continues to showcase consumer confidence. I am beholden to Volvo Car India’s entire ecosystem that has made this milestone possible” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India
“Rolling out the ten thousandth car is indeed a major milestone for our plant. Since 2017 we have been increasing our capacities to meet customer demand and have also continuously undertaken skill upgradation leading to the successful assembly of EVs. Our plant also holds the proud distinction of having rolled out India’s first domestically assembled EV our XC40 Recharge” said Mr. Gao Feng, Production Head, Volvo Car India
The manufacturing facility in Hoskote near Bengaluru commenced assembly of Volvo cars in 2017. The company today locally assembles all its models in India namely XC90, XC60, S90, XC40 Recharge and the recently launched C40 Recharge.
As part of its commitment to encourage adoption of EVs, Volvo Car India has deferred the prices of its EV offerings –the XC40 Recharge and the C40 Recharge while effecting a 2% price increase on its other models.
The XC40 Recharge is priced at 57,90,000 while the C40 Recharge is priced at 62,95,000. The updated prices for the ICE models are as follows: the XC60 is now priced at ₹68,90,000, the S90 at ₹68,25,000, and the XC90 at ₹1,00,89,000.
“We are focused on sustainable luxury e-mobility and have committed that we will be an all-electric company by 2030. We encourage the adoption of EVs and as part of this endeavour have decided that as of now we will hold the prices of our EVs despite rising forex and input costs. Industry dynamics may however compel us to revise the EV prices at a later date. So it’s the best time to buy EVs from the Volvo stable before prices go up” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India.
Volvo Car India’s EVs have had good response from customers and till date 580 units of XC40 Recharge have been sold. It would be recalled that 150 units of the XC40 Recharge were booked within two hours of the bookings opening in July, 2022. The born electric C40 Recharge was launched in September, 2023. Within a short span 180 units of C40 Recharge cars have been delivered to customers across India.
Volvo Car India is committed to grow the EV market with its commitment to launch one new EV model every year. Both XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge are only sold online directly by the company. Customers can place orders online with a refundable deposit of Rs 1 lakh on Volvo Car India website. The assembly of both the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge for the Indian market takes place at Volvo Car India’s manufacturing facility in Hosakote, Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Power Drive 