This was no ordinary Sunday in Kolkata as The Lake Club in collaboration with Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) geared up to host a bevy of timeless beauties which set the temperature soaring on the morning of February 12.

After the stupendous success of its inaugural edition held last year, The Lake Club EIMG Concours D’ Elegance – the only Concours ever held in Kolkata – was back and this time is was bigger and grander with as many as 90 exotic and rare vintage and classic vehicles taking part in this annual heritage motoring extravaganza. The icing on the cake was the nine Rolls-Royces which adorned the club lawns like nine grand jewels. Keeping them company was the 1906 Renault Freres – a show stopper – which wears the crown of being the oldest car of Kolkata.

With the Rabindra Sarobar in the backdrop, clear blue sky above, the sprawling green lawn and some of the very best vintage and classic cars & bikes on display, the setting was perfect for The Lake Club EIMG Concours D’ Elegance 2023 – a memorable date with history and legacy.

The Concours was curated and judged by Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria, Founder & President of EIMG who had painstakingly selected the 90 heritage cars and bikes which were invited to participate in the event.

The heritage vehicles were judged on the basis of Authenticity, Restoration, Maintenance, Historical Importance, and Rarity and segmented under the following categories.

1. Vintage Car upto 1930
2. Vintage Cars from 1930 to 1940
3. Vintage Two Door Cars
4. Classic Cars from 1941 to 1950
5. Classic Cars from 1951 to 1975
6. Classic Two Door Cars
7. Two Wheelers
8. Indian Heritage Cars
9. Off Roaders

Other top honours of the Concours included The Oldest Car Award, The Preservation Cup, The Restoration Cup, The Resurrection Cup, The Admirable Cup, Judges Choice Award, Special Car Award, and Momen Sahab Memorial Best Of Show (instituted in the loving memory of EIMG member and vintage car connoisseur Mr. Golam Momen).

The Lake Club EIMG Concours D’ Elegance 2023 results were as follows:

1. Vintage Cars upto 1930 – 2nd Runners Up – 1926 Studebaker – Kunal Banerjee
2. Vintage Cars upto 1930 – Runners Up – 1930 Plymouth – Purnima Dutta
3. Vintage Cars upto 1930 – Best in Class – 1927 Dodge – Surendra Dugar
4. Vintage Cars from 1931 to 1940 – 2nd Runners Up – 1939 Morris – Gadai Dey
5. Vintage Cars from 1931 to 1940 – Runners Up – 1933 Austin – CP Verma
6. Vintage Cars from 1931 to 1940 – Best in Class – 1932 Ford – Late Sanjay Ghosh
7. Vintage Two Door Cars – 2nd Runners Up – 1935 Ford – Ranajit Gooptu
8. Vintage Two Door Cars – Runners Up – 1929 Rolls-Royce- Jaywardhan Kejriwal
9. Vintage Two Door Cars – Best in Class – 1937 Opel – Rajiv Ghosh
10. Classic Cars from 1941 to 1950 – 2nd Runners Up – 1949 Buick – Late Sanjay Ghosh
11. Classic Cars from 1941 to 1950 – Runners Up – 1948 Plymouth – SK Lahiri
12. Classic Cars from 1941 to 1950 – Best in Class – 1948 Buick – Captain P Naha
13. Classic Cars from 1951 to 1975 – 2nd Runners Up – 1951 Morris – Subrata Sarkar
14. Classic Cars from 1951 to 1975 – Runners Up – 1968 Mercedes – Sourojit Palchoudhury
15. Classic Cars from 1951 to 1975 – Best in Class – 1959 Ford – Sarojesh Mukerjee
16. Classic Two Door Cars – 2nd Runners Up – 1965 Hilman – Sharmistha Hazra
17. Classic Two Door Cars – Runners Up – 1947 MG – Rupak Ghosh
18. Classic Two Door Cars – Best in Class – 1963 Triumph Spitfire – Saikat Dutta
19. Two Wheelers – 2nd Runners Up -1956 Arial – Harjit Dhanjal
20. Two Wheelers – Runners Up – 1940 Triumph – Terence Lobo
21. Two Wheelers – Best in Class – 1923 Panther – Hossain
22. Indian Heritage Cars – 2nd Runners Up – 1961 Ambassador – Baladev Majumdar
23. Indian Heritage Cars – Runners Up -1964 Standard – Subhajit Kumar
24. Indian Heritage Cars – Best in Class – 1957 Fiat – Rajiv Ghosh
25. Off Roaders – 2nd Runners Up – 1957 Land Rover – Sarojesh Mukerjee
26. Off Roaders – Runners Up – 1952 Willys – Saikat Dutta
27. Off Roaders – Best in Class – 1942 Ford – Ravi Khedwal
28. The Oldest Car Award. 1921 Rolls-Royce – Lalit Bagla
29. The Preservation Cup – 1925 Rolls-Royce – Ashok Bubna
30. The Restoration Cup – 1964 Ford Anglia – Amrit Roy
31. The Resurrection Cup – 1958 Mercedes – Prithvi Nath Tagore
32. The Admirable Cup – 1937 Rolls-Royce – SK Karnani HUF
33. Judges Choice Award – 1937 Rolls-Royce – Azam Monem
34. Special Car Award -1931 Lancia – PR Agarwal
35. Overall Third – 1925 Rolls-Royce- Ashok Bubna
36. Overall Second – 1937 Rolls-Royce – SK Karnani HUF
37. Momen Sahab Memorial Best of Show – 1937 Rolls-Royce – Azam Monem

For the past four years, The Lake Club, Kolkata has been successfully hosting ‘The Vintage Car Show’ in collaboration with Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG), for their members and guests.

Each year, this event has witnessed a great turnout of exotic heritage cars, as well as a huge footfall of members and heritage motoring enthusiasts, making this one of the grandest and most popular Vintage Motoring Events of Kolkata.

This endeavour of The Lake Club in collaboration with EIMG has been a big step towards preserving the Motoring Heritage of Eastern India.

Shrivardhan Kanoria, President – EIMG said, “Organising an event of this magnitude is never possible without the support of our patrons and partners. I’m grateful to the entire team of The Lake Club led by Club President Dr. Saibal Chakrabarti, The Joint Secretaries, Mr Subrata Guha & Mr Debabrata Dutta, Mr. Subhajit Kumar and all the Committee Members of the Club, for providing us with the breathtaking venue.

My deep gratitude to Mr. Julia Patnaik (Bhubeneshwar), the leading Vintage and Classic Car collector of Eastern India who has sponsored the beautiful mementos and trophies which has been be handed over to all the participants and winners. Special thanks to EIMG member Mr. Avik Naha who has graciously hosted The Cocktail Dinner for the EIMG Members.”

Images courtesy EIMG photography team – Sourish Meryson, Ranadip Mandal, Deepanjan Sarkar and Kingshuk Sarkar.

Following the positive feedback on the one-off presented in summer 2022, MINI is going ahead with a small series of all-electric MINI Convertible representing another big step in the direction of electric mobility.

“Three years ago, we launched the MINI Electric, and today one in five MINI models sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI. This success has spurred us to implement the small series of the MINI Electric Convertible within only a few months. I’m delighted that we can offer 999 MINI customers an extraordinary and exclusive open-air go-kart feeling,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI Brand.

The MINI Electric Convertible is offered with a fixed specification and two exterior paint choices for customers: Enigmatic Black or White Silver. Door handles, side scuttles and the surrounds of the front and rear lights are finished in Resolute Bronze, and the MINI logo and model lettering feature in Piano Black. The E logo – also found on the MINI Electric – is situated on the front apron and on the rear. Edition-specific details are found on the side scuttles and door sill trims, featuring consecutive numbering for each of the 999 units available.

The MINI Electric Convertible also showcases edition-specific 17-inch Electric Power Spoke 2-tone alloy wheels, made from 100 per cent secondary aluminium. The combination of green electricity during production and the use of the secondary raw material, significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional manufacturing processes.

For the interior, MINI Yours sports seats in Leather Lounge design offer seat heating and adjustable thigh support, while the multifunctional sports steering wheel – finished in Nappa leather – is also heated and features the MINI Electric logo. Interior surfaces are finished in Piano Black, while ambient lighting and signature MINI Electric yellow colour accents, such as the start-stop toggle switch, complete the interior design.

Premium interior materials are complemented by eDrive services, providing the driver with current energy consumption, range, and tips for economical driving, all displayed on the MINI Head-Up Display. On longer journeys, the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, and MINI Driving Assistant enhance comfort.

The MINI Electric Convertible is powered by a compact, yet powerful 135kW/ 184hp electric motor, enabling harmonious axle load distribution, agility, and controllable handling while delivering 0-62 mph in just 8.2 seconds. Offering a range of 124 miles, the dimensions, including boot space, remain unchanged and provides 160 litres.

The MINI Electric Convertible will be produced in a limited run of 999 units alongside the conventional MINI Convertible in the Netherlands.

Aston Martin’s 110 years of iconic on-track intensity will be celebrated throughout the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship season, with a special anniversary logo revealed to mark the ultra-luxury manufacturer’s milestone.

Unveiled for the very first time on the nose of the new AMR23 challenger to be raced this season by driver Lance Stroll and two-time F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso, the ‘110 Iconic Years’ crest features Aston Martin’s renowned wings marque, which was redesigned in 2022 as part of a bold new creative identity to match the brand’s future direction.

The 110th anniversary will be celebrated throughout 2023, with Aston Martin’s home Grand Prix at Silverstone seeing a special celebration of the British manufacturer’s past, present and future.

2023 promises to be a monumental year for Aston Martin, with the brand embracing its new era of high-performance and ultra-luxury by unleashing the first of its next generation of sports cars.

The year will also see the first phase of construction completed on the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team’s new state of the art 400,000 square feet (37,000m2) F1 campus at Silverstone, which hosted the team launch and will drive further technological collaboration between race and road in the future with the creation of a cutting-edge wind tunnel and simulator facility, set for completion at the end of 2024, that holds the potential to be utilised by Aston Martin Lagonda when developing its high performance products.

The brand’s presence at the pinnacle of motorsport is a key pillar of Aston Martin’s brand and performance product strategy, with new market research revealing that Formula 1 is connecting Aston Martin with an engaged audience and raising consideration in key markets.

With the sport enjoying record popularity worldwide, research indicates more than 89% of Aston Martin customers globally are now interested in Formula 1, whilst in Aston Martin’s largest commercial market of the United States, which will host three Grand Prix for the first time this season, 96% of customers feel Aston Martin’s presence in F1 made them more likely to consider the brand. More than 92% of customers also highlighted that the brand’s high-profile on-track presence is amplifying Aston Martin’s high-performance and technological credentials, as well as making the feeling of driving an Aston Martin even more exciting.

Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin, said: “110 years on from Aston Martin’s foundations on track, 2023 promises to be one of the most exciting years in our rich history, both on the track for the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One™ Team and on the road with Aston Martin’s ever-expanding line-up of stunning high performance models.

“At a time when the sport is enjoying tremendous popularity worldwide, the return of Aston Martin to Formula 1® has been transformative for the brand and our product image, with market research highlighting its impact not just on our awareness, but also our consideration amongst a new generation of customers. F1® is reinjecting performance DNA to Aston Martin, a factor of our strategy that will further increase with the team’s new cutting-edge campus at Silverstone and our desire to compete at the highest level of the sport.”

The 2023 season will continue to see the highly desirable Vantage F1 Edition roar off Gaydon’s sports car production facility. The 535PS performance car, which in 2021 became the first production model to be adorned with the F1 logo, has been a huge success since its introduction as an Official FIA Safety Car of Formula 1, a role it will fulfill on the world’s greatest circuits again this season alongside the DBX medical car.

Data shows that 72% of Vantage F1 Edition owners are new to the Aston Martin brand, further demonstrating the positive impact that Aston Martin’s global presence in the sport is having on its brand desirability and appeal to new customers.

The Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team begins the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship season at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on 5 March 2023.

Renault and Nissan have announced a new long-term vision for India, increasing production and R&D activities, introducing electric vehicles, and transitioning to carbon-neutral manufacturing.

From their base in Chennai, the companies will collaborate on six new production vehicles for domestic and international customers, including two new fully electric vehicles, uplifting the Renault-Nissan centre into an international export hub.

An initial investment of around $600m USD / INR 5300 crores is planned to support the new projects, which will see an up to 2,000 additional new jobs created at the Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre in Chennai. At the same time, the RNAIPL factory will become carbon-neutral with a significant increase in renewable energy generation.

Following last week’s announcement of new high-value-creation operational projects for the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, the future for Renault and Nissan’s Indian operations was outlined today at an official ceremony in Chennai by Nissan’s Director, Chief Operating Officer, Representative Executive Officer and member of Alliance Board Ashwani Gupta, in the presence of Thiru M.K. Stalin, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and alongside officials from the Tamil Nadu Government.

Guillaume Cartier, Chairperson for Nissan’s Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region, said: “Renault and Nissan are fully committed to the Indian market, committed to electrifying the Indian market and committed to minimising our impact on the environment.

“India was the first Alliance plant and India will be at the centre of this new chapter of the Alliance, with new vehicles, new R&D activities and new export markets taking our joint operations to the next level.

“For the first time, the Nissan line-up in India will reflect our global power in high-quality SUVs and EVs, bringing greater value to our employees, customers and communities.”

François Provost, International Development & Partnerships Renault Group and Managing Director of Alliance Purchasing Organization, said: “India is a key market for Renault Group. Over the past 14 years, we have been developing the Renault Brand with our teams and dealers, up to reaching 100 thousand vehicles sold per year. India has also a key role in our R&D worldwide footprint. This project together with Nissan is a first concrete output of the new Alliance ambition released on February 6th.”

Mr. S Krishnan, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, said: “The Renault-Nissan Alliance in Tamil Nadu has had manufacturing and design facilities operating in the State for more than 15 years now. This is a very valuable and important relationship for the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Alliance. It employs about 15,000 people directly in the State and has been one of the mainstays in ensuring that Tamil Nadu remains the automotive capital of India and an important hub for the manufacture of automobiles and auto components and automobile design as well. We are very excited about this new proposal of modernization and fresh investment by the Renault-Nissan Alliance in Tamil Nadu. This genuinely brings to life ‘Make in Tamil Nadu and Make in India for the World’.”

Introducing new models into new segments

The six new models will comprise of three for each company, engineered and built in Chennai. They will be built on common Alliance platforms while retaining the individual, distinctive styling of the respective brands.

They will include four new C-segment SUVs. Two new A-segment electric vehicles will be the first EVs for both Renault and Nissan in India, building on the heritage and expertise of both brands in mass-market electrification, which began with the Nissan LEAF and Renault Zoe more than a decade ago.

An international Renault and Nissan hub in Chennai

The new models will not only be aimed at Indian customers but will also signal a significant increase in exports from India, boosting plant utilisation to 80% and securing many thousands of jobs at the RNAIPL plant in Chennai for many years to come.

Complementing the additional production will be an increase in R&D and associated activities at the Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India, which is expected to create up to 2,000 new jobs at the site near Chennai, focusing on new Indian and international projects.

Roadmap to carbon neutral vehicle manufacturing

The RNAIPL plant, already one of the Alliance’s leading centres for energy and resource reduction, also is announcing its roadmap to carbon neutrality.

This will be achieved by 2045, through an ongoing programme to transition to 100% renewable energy, while reducing energy consumption at the plant by 50% compared to today.

Chennai Plant already sources more than 50% of its electricity from renewables, including solar, biomass and wind. The existing solar plant will become more than six times bigger, expanding to a 14MW plant from 2.2MW today.

Renewed partnership

As a consequence of the renewed commitment of both companies to the Indian market, Renault and Nissan are realigning their shareholding in their joint operations.

Under the new framework agreement, Renault Nissan Automotive India Private Ltd (RNAIPL) will move to an ownership of 51% Nissan – 49% Renault. Renault Nissan Technology Business Centre (RNTBCI) will move to an ownership of 51% Renault -49% Nissan. This reinforces the partnership for the long-term and will empower the joint ventures with more responsibility and more autonomy.

Nissan AMIEO Chairperson Cartier added: “Renault and Nissan have renewed their commitment to India today and we thank the Tamil Nadu Government for their strong partnership and support.”

“I was extremely proud to be in Chennai to share the good news with the team. Their performance and competitiveness have given us the confidence to invest for the long-term.”

On Saturday, the Nissan Formula E Team is set to compete in Round 4 of the 2022/23 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship as it heads to India for the first of four new venues in Season 9.

With 85 years of motor sport history and over a decade of EV expertise, Nissan’s participation in Formula E is the perfect showcase of its commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility. Sustainability is at the core of Nissan’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030 and the company is dedicated to providing innovative and high-performance electric vehicles to promote EV adoption globally. Formula E represents the pinnacle of EV technology and Nissan is driving the road-to-track transfer, bringing the joys of electrification to consumers and sports fanatics worldwide.

As Formula E comes to Hyderabad for the first time, the race marks a transition in the Indian market, showcasing a commitment to electrification and zero-emission vehicles.

Nissan shares the vision of India Government on promotion of electric vehicles and believes in a future of electric mobility for India. Through Ambition 2030, Nissan is working with stakeholders to make electrification a reality in India. The knowledge and insights gained from racing in Season 9 will be invaluable in making electrified mobility more accessible and sustainable in this market and will support Nissan’s track-to-road transfer more broadly.

“Nissan’s participation in Formula E is about electrifying the track and bringing the excitement of electrification to the forefront,” stated Frank Torres, President of Nissan Motors India Pvt Ltd. “In Season 9, we not only aim to compete and excel, but also demonstrate the thrill of electric vehicles to the world. The NISSAN e-4ORCE 04 is our most efficient racing car to date, highlighting the capabilities of our EV powertrain technology and our expertise in electrification.”

This season marks Nissan’s debut competing as a unified team under its new name and sees Nissan take full ownership of all its operations in Formula E. Alongside the NISSAN e-4ORCE 04’s enhanced powertrain capabilities, the team has also elevated the cars design. Unveiling a striking new livery, inspired by its Japanese DNA, the NISSAN e-4ORCE 04, features a cherry blossom pattern, commemorating a new age not only for the championship, but for the team itself.

When the NISSAN e-4ORCE 04 takes to the new street circuit in Hyderabad on Saturday, February 11, the race will present a fresh challenge, as no previous data or experience is available on the 2.83-kilometre track. The track features high-speed corners, intense braking zones, and presents opportunities for overtaking at Turns 1 and 3. Nissan Formula E Team drivers, Sacha Fenestraz and Norman Nato, aim to improve upon their previous round results and target a double-points finish in the upcoming race.

“New circuits offer a whole new training ground,” said Tommaso Volpe, Managing Director, Nissan Formula E Team. “There are many unknowns, so we’ve been working hard in the simulator to know what to expect when we arrive. It’s all about finding the small gains that can help us when it comes to race day. Based on Mexico and Diriyah, we know we have a good car, and we can see where we need to improve. It’s clear that qualifying is extremely tight, so we’ll be aiming for strong lap times to give us more chance of scoring points with both cars.”

Through Formula E, Nissan is bringing the best of Global Nissan to India and reinforcing its commitment to provide sustainable and authentic technologies for its customers. Nissan is taking steps towards this goal, recently showcasing its global premium vehicles – JUKE Hybrid, Qashqai e-POWER, and X-Trail e-POWER – as a demonstration of its electrification ambitions.

Season 9 marks a new era for Nissan’s participation in the championship and the team is putting its expertise to the test, daring to do what others don’t. The upcoming race in Hyderabad, India will deliver innovation and excitement both on and off the track as the thrill of electrification is celebrated on a global platform.

Sacha Fenestraz, Nissan Formula E driver, said, “I’m excited about racing in Hyderabad. The new circuit levels the playing field for me as a rookie. I’m looking forward to improving and learning at every race and getting used to the energy and tire management. I hope to keep progressing and finding the consistency needed to succeed in this championship.”

Norman Nato, Nissan Formula E driver, added, “I’m eager to discover the new track in Hyderabad. We made progress in the previous round, and now we need to build on that to compete at the front of the field. The competition is tight this year, but we know where we need to improve. The hot and humid conditions will be a physical challenge, but we know our targets and will work to achieve them.”

With its top three-star rating in the Environmental Accreditation Programme, a sustainability certification by the FIA, Formula E is the first carbon neutral sport in the world since its inception, and Nissan races in this all-electric world championship to bring the excitement and fun of zero-emission electric vehicles to a global audience.

For the past four years, The Lake Club, Kolkata has been successfully hosting ‘The Vintage Car Show’ in collaboration with Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG), for their members and guests. Each year, this event has witnessed a great turnout of exotic heritage cars, as well as a huge footfall of members and heritage motoring enthusiasts, making this one of the grandest and most popular Vintage Motoring Events of Kolkata.

EIMG is a group of heritage vehicle owners founded by well known vintage car collector and restorer Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria who is also the present President of EIMG. He is ably supported by EIMG Secretary Mr. Subhajit Kumar, a veteran motor sports enthusiast & classic car collector. This endeavour of The Lake Club in collaboration with EIMG has been a big step towards preserving the Motoring Heritage of Eastern India. Similar to the previous editions, this year too promises to be a stellar show with the participation of around 90 heritage vehicles of Kolkata, including nine vintage Rolls-Royces, among other exotic & rare cars have been selected for this Concours by the event curator Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria. The cars will be judged on the basis of Authenticity, Restoration, Maintenance, Historical Importance, and Rarity.

The cars will be judged under the following categories:

1. Vintage Car upto 1930

2. Vintage Cars from 1930 to 1940

3. Vintage Two Door Cars

4. Classic Cars from 1941 to 1950

5. Classic Cars from 1951 to 1975

6. Classic Two Door Cars

7. Two Wheelers

8. Indian Heritage Cars

9. Off Roaders

Other honours include The Oldest Car Award, The Preservation Cup, The Restoration Cup, The Resurrection Cup, The Admirable Cup, Judges Choice Award, Special Car Award, and Momen Sahab Memorial Best Of Show (instituted in the loving memory of EIMG member and vintage car connoisseur Mr. Golam Momen).

Shrivardhan Kanoria, President – EIMG said, “Organising an event of this magnitude is never possible without the support of our patrons and partners. I’m grateful to the entire team of The Lake Club led by Club President Dr. Saibal Chakrabarti, The Joint Secretaries, Mr Subrata Guha & Mr Debabrata Dutta, and all the Committee Members of the Club, for providing us with the breathtaking venue. My deep gratitude to Mr. Julia Patnaik (Bhubeneshwar), the leading Vintage and Classic Car collector of Eastern India who has sponsored the beautiful mementos and trophies which will be handed over to all the participants and winners. Special thanks to EIMG member Mr. Avik Naha who has graciously agreed to host The Cocktail Dinner for the EIMG Members.”

BMW India has launched the all-new BMW X1 sports activity vehicle (SAV) in the country in both petrol and diesel variants. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the car is available for bookings at BMW dealership network and through Shop.bmw.in. Deliveries for BMW X1 sDrive18d M Sport (diesel) will commence from March onwards and for the BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine (petrol) from June.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X1 remains a best-seller in its segment thanks to a supreme combination of comfort and luxury. It is a natural match for individuals who dare to chase their dreams and challenge the norms, those who break convention and exceed through everything. The all-new BMW X1 makes a statement in its class with its powerful build and distinct muscular design. The interior is impressively modern and digital, marked by advanced connectivity and superb ease of use. All this, while still being the most agile luxury Sports Activity Vehicle, is bound to take the X1’s success to higher levels.”

The attractive introductory ex-showroom prices for a limited number of units are –

The all-new BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine (petrol) : INR 45,90,000

The all-new BMW X1 sDrive18d M Sport (diesel) : INR 47,90,000

The all-new BMW X1 debuts with bigger proportions than the predecessor, looking more powerful and expressive. The monolithic design, surface lines and classy exterior display its SAV identity more clearly than ever. The upright front end has a much greater presence with slim LED headlights and a large, almost square BMW kidney grille. Adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant and rear LED taillights are available as standard now. Almost square wheel arch contours and a long roofline are the distinguishing features of the stretched silhouette. The flat roof rails serve as a striking design element and can be used as multifunctional mounts. When viewed from rear, the slim tailgate window, horizontal lines and 3D taillights produce the wide, typical ‘X’ SAV stance. The all-new X1 sports 18-inch light-alloy wheels in star-spoke style for the xLine and double-spoke style for M Sport.

The interior takes a big leap forward, now featuring an even higher level of luxury and digitalisation. The first element to catch attention is the new digital BMW Curved Display which is harmoniously unified into the cockpit area. The typical BMW driver-orientation, clear reduced design along with an interplay of eye-catching graphics, modern colours and futuristic textures create an immersive visual appearance. The new Instrument Panel Luxury in Sensatec elevates the interior’s aesthetics. Decorative strips including ambient lighting in instrument panel and front doors as well as accent trim strips in Pearl Chrome enhance the premium character of the cabin. The seemingly floating armrest with storage also integrates the control cluster. Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 12 loudspeakers (in M Sport) offers magnificent sound quality, even at low volumes.

Standard Sport Seats in both variants provide the perfect seating position to take on the road, having a great range of adjustment with reclining function in rear and superior ergonomics for long-distance comfort. The BMW M Sport variant has an even higher degree of individual comfort with Active Seats for both driver and front passenger. These have multiple massage programs with variable intensities and speeds that help in reducing stress over long distances. In M Sport, even the rear seat passengers have the freedom of increasing the legroom by mechanically adjusting the seats forward or backward by up to 130 mm.

The all-new BMW X1 welcomes passengers in style with Welcome Light Staging. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood while Automatic 2 zone A/C maintains the perfect temperature. Adding to the sense of space is the large glass sunroof. The big 476 litre luggage compartment can be enlarged to 1,527 litres with the useful functionality of the optional 40:20:40 split backrest. At the same time, comfort access contactless operation of the boot lid provides greater flexibility for loading / unloading. The wireless charging tray available in both variants provides NFC interface to charge via the “Qi” charging standard.

BMW X1 sDrive 18d M Sport is powered by a 1,995 cc four-cylinder diesel engine which produces 148 hp and 360 Nm of maximum torque. The car sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in 8.9 seconds. The average fuel consumption is 20.37 kmpl as measured by Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) for Indian market specifications.

BMW X1 sDrive 18i xLine is powered by 1,499 cc three-cylinder petrol engine which produces 134 hp and 230 Nm of maximum torque. The car sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in 9.2 seconds. The average fuel consumption is 16.3 kmpl as measured by ARAI for Indian market specifications.

The seven-speed steptronic dual-clutch transmission in both variants performs smooth almost imperceptible gearshifts. Paddle shifters in M Sport variant enable extremely rapid manual gear changes and with Sport Boost mode all the powertrain and chassis settings are primed to maximise sporting responses. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. It includes BMW ID, MyBMW App with Remote Services, Digital Key Plus, Intelligent Emergency Call, Teleservices among others.

BMW Live Cockpit Plus includes the BMW Curved Display with a 10.25-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and a 10.7-inch Control Display. The latest BMW iDrive with Operating System 8 offers all the possibilities for interaction with the vehicle. Occupants can operate numerous car functions simply by speaking to their BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Wireless smartphone integration provides access to numerous functions and apps. Regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date. The vertical smartphone holder with indirect illumination is integrated into the centre console and provides inductive Wireless Charging and an NFC interface. Updated Navigation is now with real-time traffic information.

My BMW App functions remotely to keep an eye on the current vehicle status at all times. BMW Digital Key Plus with Comfort Access sets a new standard in convenience for customers by turning their smartphone and smartwatch into a vehicle key, in addition to the NFC cards provided. It enables customers to automatically open, close and start the vehicle. A stylish welcome scenario commences with orchestrated lighting effect including a light carpet. Customers can share the digital key with up to 5 users.

BMW Efficient Dynamics includes features such as reduced aerodynamic drag, Auto Start-Stop, Electronic Power Steering and My Modes in Driving Experience Control.

The driver enjoys effective assistance in parking manoeuvres that increases comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes functions like Active Park Distance Control with sensors at front and rear, Rear View Camera including Panorama rear view, Parking Assistant, Reversing Assistant and Attentiveness Assistant. Reversing Assistant remembers the last 50 metres covered and automatically reverses the car along exactly the same route. Attentiveness Assistant monitors potential hazards, supporting drivers to react in time.

BMW Safety technologies includes extensive Driver Assistance Systems with Lane Departure Warning, Dynamic Cruise Control with Braking Function, Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Protection. Other standard safety features are six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel.

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. has announced the installation of its Ultra-High Speed Public EV Charging Network across key highways and cities in India. Each fast charging station will comprise one unit of DC 150 kW Ultra-Fast Charger and one unit of DC 60 kW High-Speed Charger, as part of HMIL’s aim to spearhead the electric vehicle adoption in India and facilitate the charging experience for both intercity and intra-city travel.

Commenting on the installation of Fast Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles, Jae Wan Ryu, Executive Director – Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor India Ltd. said, “We are delighted to take another step in the direction of strengthening the Indian Government’s resolve for Electrification, that will enrich and augment the electric mobility lifestyle for EV adopters. Hyundai Motor India Ltd. has been persistent in its efforts to enhance customer convenience by installing Ultra-Fast EV Charging Stations at strategic public locations across highways and cities. With the recent launch of the globally acclaimed, the all-electric SUV Hyundai IONIQ 5 and HMI’s commitment to expanding its EV portfolio by 2028, we will catalyze our initiative of building a sustainable ecosystem for India’s transition towards electric mobility, and continue taking our customers ‘Beyond Mobility’.’’

All EV customers stand to benefit from a quick charging experience, and the all-electric SUV Hyundai IONIQ 5 can be charged from 10% to 80% charge within 21 minutes, at these charging stations. Hyundai EV owners can access the charging stations on Hyundai’s own Charger Management System in myHyundai App, for easy finding, pre-booking charging slots, digital payment, remote charging status monitoring, etc. All the charging stations are managed and operated by Hyundai Motor India Ltd in partnership with the industry’s leading charge point operator ‘Charge Zone’.

The Hyundai branded station will ensure an economical EV driving experience, with an attractive charging tariff. The charging stations are installed at locations having adequate customer amenities like coffee shops/ restaurants to further induce customer delight while charging their Electric Vehicles. The charging stations are also manned with marshals for assisting EV users 24 x 7 to enable a seamless charging experience.

The Ultra-High Speed EV charging stations are open to the public and to all passenger EV owners. With the first 2 Ultra-Fast Public EV Charging Stations open to the public from February 1, 2023, HMIL will further expand to install such charging stations across other highways and cities to ensure increased peace of mind for EV customers while driving the electric vehicle adoption in India in solidarity with the Indian Government’s strong focus on electrification.

Shell has announced the newest addition to its passenger car motor oils portfolio – Shell Helix SP HX8 0W-20. This fully synthetic, BS VI compliant, engine oil designed for modern turbocharged engines is being launched in an exciting collaboration between Shell and MARVEL Heroes Unite.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Amit Ghugre, Automotive Sales and Marketing Manager, Shell Lubricants India, said, “As the world’s leading lubricant supplier, we create future-ready products and solutions. We expect the Helix SP HX8 0W-20 segment to become consumers’ primary choice in the next few years, based on both OEM recommendations and a need for more fuel-efficient lubricants. With this product launch, we are strategically investing in future demand creation, while bringing an exciting consumer brand collaboration with Marvel to the consumers”.

Driven by the needs of fuel economy, lower emissions and changes in engine design, modern cars need an exceptional engine oil. Shell Helix HX8 SP 0W-20 is formulated with Flexi Molecule Technology that continuously adapts to engine conditions, to ensure more protection. Shell Helix HX8 SP 0W-20 is specially designed for modern turbocharged petrol direct injection (TGDI) engines to protect against damaging low speed pre-ignition (LSPI).

Shell Helix HX8 SP 0W-20 has been introduced in India with the latest API engine oil standard for passenger car motor oils that aim to meet the demanding needs of turbocharged petrol direct injection (TGDI) engines, the use of which is increasing because of the need to reduce environmental pollution and fuel use.

The collaboration offers motorists a chance to win exclusive MARVEL prizes on purchase of every 3L and 3.5L Shell Helix HX8 0W-20 packs across nearest Shell branded workshop or retail outlet. Shell Helix HX8 is available nationwide at INR 2,730 for 3.5L pack.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrates the anniversary of its Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, first registered as intellectual property of Rolls-Royce on February 6, 1911. Ever since she has been universally recognised, respected and admired – with a poise and grace that makes her a global icon.

She’s changed with the passage of time. At various points in her long life she’s adopted different stances, sometimes stood slightly taller or shorter, and allowed the wind to sculpt her flowing garments in subtly altered forms.

She celebrates her anniversary in her most streamlined and athletic guise, having been specially recreated in 2022 for the marque’s all-electric Spectre, itself the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce ever. She’s also truly ageless: today, she more closely resembles the original drawings made in 1911 by her creator, the illustrator and sculptor Charles Sykes, than she’s ever done.

The origins of the Spirit of Ecstasy are the substance of legend and myth, as well as recorded fact, with some details still veiled in mystery and intrigue. Her backstory involves many of the foundational characters in Rolls-Royce’s own history, including the marque’s first managing director, Claude Johnson.

To Rolls-Royce customers and fans around the world, she personifies ambition, achievement, excellence and success. She inspires greatness – every motor car on which she graces has to be worthy of her presence.