German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has strengthened its luxury SUV portfolio by launching two new luxury SUVs, the GLB and the EQB. This is the first time Mercedes-Benz launches an ICE petrol (GLB 200), a diesel (GLB 220d, GLB 220d 4M) and an EV (EQB 300) simultaneously, for the Indian market. The introductory pricing for GLB 200 is INR 63.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d is INR 66.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d 4MATIC is INR 69.8 Lakhs and EQB 300 4MATIC is INR 74.5 Lakhs (all India ex-showroom prices).
These spacious and versatile seven-seater SUV siblings target large nuclear families wanting more space for their active lifestyle. With the GLB and EQB SUVs, Mercedes-Benz continues to have the most comprehensive SUV portfolio for any carmaker in India, ranging from the GLA in the luxury segment to the GLS Maybach in the top-end luxury segment.
After the overwhelming customer response for the ‘Made in India’ Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC, the EQB is the third all-electric vehicle launched this year. The versatile, stylish, and environment-friendly EQB reiterates Mercedes-Benz‘s commitment to electrification across its product portfolio.
The GLB reinterprets the characteristic appearance of an SUV with versatility and dynamism. GLB’s striking design, flexible seating positions, legroom, and load compartment, makes it a highly practical urban SUV for daily usage. In addition, its powerful proportions and off-road capabilities create a compelling proposition for a mid-size 7-seater luxury SUV, sought by young and active Indian families.
Launching the SUV siblings, Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We edare excited to wrap up 2022 with the key introduction of two versatile 7-seater SUVs the GLB & EQB. Both these SUVs are highly versatile, spacious and ideal for large nuclear families requiring extra space and pair of seats, for the pre-teens or even pets. They can seat up to 7 passengers and offer a choice of space configurations while also being able to navigate rough terrain effortlessly.”
He added, “For the first time, we are offering three powertrains, a petrol, diesel, and an electric for our customers. The launch of the EQB is also a significant step towards our vision of transitioning to a climate neutral fleet gradually, with four luxury EVs in Mercedes-Benz India portfolio. We have also introduced attractive ownership propositions like industry best warranties on both the SUVs for an enhanced customer experience.”
Mercedes-Benz has set up 30 Ultra-Fast Chargers across the country and there will be 10 more by the end of 2022. With this, the company will offer more than 140 charging points across the country. Mercedes-Benz customers will receive a complimentary AC wallbox with the EQB and can also avail complimentary charging for the first year of car ownership.
India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd. as a part of its zealous brand strategy ‘The Call of the Blue’, had launched the evolved and refreshing Version 2.0 of its popular MT-15 model in India in April 2022 with price starting from Rs. 1,59,900 (Ex-Showroom, Delhi). Soon after that the Yamaha MT-15Version 2.0 was sent to the Power Drive garage for a long term road test and review. Join our team on this exciting ride as we get up close and personal with the Yamaha MT-15Version 2.0.
Design and Engineering
The new Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0 features an inverted front fork with 37mm inner tubes, wherein the lower end (un-sprung) is light, and the upper end (sprung) has thick outer tubes bolted to the chassis for higher rigidity. The box-section swing arm is also replaced with a MotoGP inspired Aluminium swing arm. This makes for improved stability in corners and under hard braking, pushing the boundaries of agility by enhancing the rider control. The MT-15 Version 2.0 weighs just 139kgs and features Yamaha’s patented Delta Box frame that gives it the edge in terms of handling capabilities.
On the design front, the MT-15 Version 2.0 continues to illustrate the impulsive MT style by offering freedom in the riding position and focusing on the design expression of ‘Torque and Agility’. The fresh set of colours on the MT-15Version 2.0 include Cyan Storm (new), Racing Blue (new), Ice Fluo-Vermillion and Metallic Black, these coupled with an edgier set of graphics further strengthens its aggressive style and sporty character.
Performance and Handling
The Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, 155cc fuel-injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system. The MT-15 Version 2.0 also features a slick shifting 6-speed gearbox that is mated with an Assist and Slip clutch for lighter actuation. The MT-15 Version 2.0 produces 18.4PS of peak power at 10,000rpm, with peak torque output of 14.1Nm at 7,500rpm.
With the new updates, the MT-15 Version 2.0 offers the perfect blend of agile handling, exhilarating acceleration and futuristic design. The naked street fighter continues to feature a Bi-Functional LED Headlight with LED Position Lights, high-raised LED Tail-light, Single Channel ABS with a 282mm (Front) and 220mm (Rear) disc brake, a super wide 140mm rear Radial tyre, and Side Stand with Engine Cut-off Switch.
Technology
In terms of electronics, the Yamaha MT-15Version 2.0 features a newly designed, fully digital LCD cluster that displays a customizable animated text (when ignition is turned on), along with a Gear Shift, Gear Position and VVA indicator. The LCD cluster also displays Call, E-mail and SMS alerts along with Smartphone battery status available through the Bluetooth Enabled Y-Connect App. The App also offers information related to Maintenance Recommendations, Parking Location, Fuel Consumption, Malfunctions, Revs Dashboard and Ranking on the Smartphone.
Verdict
Yamaha fans have always praised the MT-15 for its impeccable handling and performance but have been eagerly waiting for a more evolved version of the Dark Warrior. The launch of the new MT-15 Version 2.0 earlier this year was the perfect representation of Yamaha being able to meet its customer expectations, as a part of its ongoing ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand strategy. With the new set of features and technology, the MT-15 Version 2.0 will attract more young riders who are in search of a premium street-naked motorcycle that strikes the perfect balance between weekend rides and daily commuting needs.
The Jeep brand introduced the all-new Grand Cherokee at an introductory ex-showroom price of INR 77.5 lakhs. Jeep has recreated the iconic moment when the SUV was launched 30 years ago, driving through a glass window at an Auto Show in Detroit. Since then, the Grand Cherokee has set an industry benchmark and quickly became synonymous with upscale design and uncompromised capability. Today, the 5th generation of the iconic nameplate continues to build on its legacy as the most awarded SUV ever, with its all-new exterior and interior design, world-class craftsmanship and first-to-market technologies.
Commenting on the launch of the all-new Grand Cherokee in India, Roland Bouchara, CEO and Managing Director, Stellantis India, said, “As promised, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the fourth model to be Made in India. With the all-new Grand Cherokee, adventure lovers will have a distinctive blend of luxury, fortified with segment best features, innovative technology, and composed driving dynamics elevating the brand position to the luxury segment.”
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been designed and engineered to deliver even more of what has made the SUV a true global icon in the premium segment, including legendary capability, class-leading space, innovative technology, versatility, and advanced safety features.
Nipun J. Mahajan, Head of Jeep Brand India, added, “The Jeep Grand Cherokee is our global flagship and offers new level of luxury, safety, technology and comfort. The all-new Grand Cherokee is the epitome of prestige & panache to our unique, enthusiastic and growing customer base who accept nothing short of the best.”
After more than 7 million global sales, the most acclaimed SUV ever continues to set the standard among all SUVs. The newly introduced Grand Cherokee is based on an entirely new architecture and has been meticulously designed and engineered to deliver unrivalled performance both on and off the road.
• The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed to meet the growing needs of Jeep customers who have asked for more space, versatility, and functionality, maximising overall passenger comfort by creating generous interior room and gives passengers expansive, class-leading legroom in the second row.
• More than 110 advanced safety and security features, including Active Driving Assistance System(ADAS), 360-Degree Surround View, Drowsy Driver Detection, 3 Point seat belt and Occupant Detection for all 5 passengers.
• 73% of the body is made from high strength and advanced high strength steel.
• Equipped with the award-winning 10.1 inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the all-new Grand Cherokee features segment-leading technologies include a 10-inch windshield Heads Up Display, digital rear view mirror and a segment first 10.25 inch passenger screen.
• Features handcrafted materials and modern amenities, resulting in the most luxurious Grand Cherokee ever. The front panel features new slim HVAC vents, a realigned center stack for greater driver accessibility. The all-new Jeep seating architecture features a length adjustable cushion for the front row passengers. The new 8-way adjustable front seats have power lumbar and memory. Heated/vented seats are available in first two rows, with three-level configurable controls.
• The center console layout now has updated switches, more storage space in the front bin that can hold two wireless devices and a wireless charger.
• The Grand Cherokee is designed inside and out to deliver unmatched capability and composed driving dynamics. Its renowned 4×4 Quadra-Trac system and Selec-Terrain traction management system instills the Grand Cherokee with the Jeep brand’s legendary 4×4 capability.
• Another noteworthy provision is the new Jeep SUV’s ability to automatically switch to four-wheel drive mode whenever the system detects the need. The famed 4x4Quadra-Trac system includes an active transfer case that transfers torque to the wheel with the most grip to enhance traction.
• The SUV offers class-leading 215 mm of ground clearance and 533mm of water fording.
• The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers 33 connectivity features including 24X7 Dedicated Assistance, Remote Vehicle Management, Monitor Vehicle Parameters, Navigation& Connected Traffic & Travel, 24-hour surveillance& Automatic Crash/ Breakdown detection.
The all-new architecture and sculpted aerodynamic body style and active grille shutters combine to improve vehicle performance, safety and reliability, while significantly reducing vehicle weight, noise, vibration and harshness. Designed to maximise overall passenger safety, comfort and convenience, Grand Cherokee packs a powerful punch with next generation features and technologies that make it a standout in the full-size SUV segment.
The new Jeep Grand Cherokee is now available at select Jeep dealerships across India with deliveries starting by the end of the month.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), has flagged off Hyundai IONIQ 5 from its Corporate Head Quarters in Gurugram, Haryana, by Mr. Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India as it sets out to explore the Wonders of India with the globally acclaimed BEV SUV.
Commenting on the 8 Wonder exploration drive, Mr. Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai has been leading the charge across the spectrum of Technology and Innovation at a global scale. Today, we are witnessing a seamless amalgamation of technology and architecture that has come a long way with iconic wonders standing testament to the might of Human Imagination. Hyundai has also been working tirelessly to create such an icon that will truly revolutionize the EV landscape,as an ever green engineering marvel. Today, I am glad to flag off the 8 Wonder explorationby Hyundai IONIQ 5.”
Hyundai IONIQ 5 will begin its journey from Hyundai Motor India’s corporate Head Quarters in Gurugram, Haryana and will set out on a journey to witness the Wonders of India –
Golden Temple (Punjab)
Taj Mahal (Uttar Pradesh)
Temples of Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)
Ancient Ruins of Nalanda (Bihar)
Konark Sun Temple (Odisha)
Hampi (Karnataka)
Gomteshwara Statue (Karnataka)
Hyundai IONIQ 5 will not only be setting out on an expedition to discover the 7 Wonders of India but also set a new record for the “FASTEST EV DRIVE COVERING THE 7 WONDERS OF INDIA”. Hyundai will apply to set this record with India book of records. As every journey begins with an auspicious gesture, this drive will set out with the first destination at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The journey will take Hyundai IONIQ 5 to majestic and iconic wonders like the Taj Mahal, the Temples of Khajuraho, the ancient ruins of Nalanda, the Konark Sun Temple, the ancient city of Hampi in Karnataka and then to the Gomateshwara statue. After completing the journey covering the 7 Wonders of India,Hyundai IONIQ 5 will stand firm as the 8 th Wonder of India, resting on the strength of its futuristic technology, brilliant architecture, breath taking design and world class safety.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), has announced the introduction of its dedicated BEV Platform E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform) for India. With the introduction of its dedicated BEV platform, the company will take the lead in driving the BEV revolution for Smart Indians. Hyundai IONIQ 5 will be HMI’s first model to be introduced on the E-GMP Platform and becoming the latest BEV from the brand that will redefine Electric Mobility lifestyle and enable you to ‘Power your world’.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai has been driving the smart revolution of automobiles in the country for the last two and a half decades; and has continued to invest in the introduction of mobility solutions that delight customers. Our Electric Mobility campaign in India began in 2019 with the launch of India’s 1st Electric SUV – Hyundai KONA Electric. As we continue to challenge possibilities and dynamics of mobility, our pursuit of innovation is perfectly reflected in the Electric Global Modular Platform – E-GMP. With the introduction of E-GMP to India, we will be able to provide customers with advanced battery electric vehicles, derived from a platform that is modular, scalable and versatile. Conceptualized and engineered to pivot the future transformation of Electric Mobility, E-GMP will usher in a new league of Electric Vehicles for the smart new age customers in India.”
Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)
Hyundai Motor Group globally showcased its E-GMP dedicated BEV platform for future electric vehicles, marking a new era for the brand. Driving the pump-to-plug revolution, Hyundai will pioneer the development of future electric vehicles with this dedicated BEV platform that is now coming to India with the Hyundai IONIQ 5.
The E-GMP platform comprises of vehicle chassis that includes – battery, motor and power electric system. The battery system features an advanced battery pack offering high range, while the bi-directional charging plug allows the high-voltage battery to power various electronic appliances. The E-GMP platform also features an Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) that charges both the high-voltage battery as well as auxiliary battery. With an inherent modular DNA, E-GMP is capable of forming the underpinnings of vehicles with different body types and through the innovative interior packaging the vehicles will feature a flat floor, slim cockpit and a flexible yet spacious cabin. E-GMP has been developed on four Key Pillars of:
· Modularity
· Performance
· Reliability
· Usability
Modularity to Enable Development Flexibility – With E-GMP, Hyundai has reduced complexity with modularization and standardization, thereby catering to the rapid development of vehicles with various body types. The advanced architecture of E-GMP and its modular systems will enable the flexible development of multiple vehicles that cater to diverse customer needs. Further, with the modularity of this platform, multiple high-range battery options can be configured by adding or removing standard battery modules.
Designed for Performance – E-GMP has been designed to deliver enhanced driving dynamics with improved cornering performance and driving stability at high speeds that is achieved through optimal weight distribution between front and rear. Through its low mounted battery pack the platform delivers a low centre of gravity, thereby enhancing cornering performance. On the Hyundai IONIQ 5, the high-speed electric motor delivers a superior performance, achieving a top speed of 185 kmph. With the use of a 5-link rear suspension the platform is able to deliver superior ride comfort and handling. Further, with E-GMP customers can enjoy the benefits of Ultrafast Charging that can charge up to 80 per cent in 18 minutes (with a 350 kW DC charger).
Reliability at its Core – Engineered to deliver superior levels of structural strength and integrity, E-GMP has been developed with:
· Front energy absorption zone – that is built to deform and absorb shocks for passenger safety
· Energy distribution structure – that features an efficient front energy distribution structure to prevent deformation of passenger cabin area
· Battery protective structure – the application of Ultra High-Strength Steel structure around battery pack offers enhanced safety
· 8-point battery mounting – has been incorporated to enhance battery safety through sturdy battery-to-floor connection
Maximized Usability for Superior Comfort – The E-GMP platform has been developed keeping in mind the future mobility needs of customers across the globe. With modern buyers seeking enhanced versatility and usability in transit, E-GMP offers maximized interior space with a long wheelbase. By shifting the AC system to the engine bay, E-GMP will also offer increased cabin space. Through its flat floor construct, E-GMP enhances seating comfort and by removing the centre tunnel, middle passenger on the rear seat can sit more comfortably. With E-GMP, Hyundai IONIQ 5 will offer flexible usage of space through various seating positions such as relaxation seats with Leg support; and moving console for enhanced versatility.
Volvo Car India has commenced the delivery of its full electric XC40 Recharge in the country. The first car was delivered today in Gujarat by Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India. Volvo XC40 Recharge is India’s first Locally Assembled Luxury Electric SUV. The company is assembling the cars in their facility based at Bangalore, Karnataka.
“It is indeed a milestone for all of us at Volvo to have the first of the India assembled pure electric XC40 Recharge luxury SUV delivered. This delivery is historic as this not only marks the beginning of our journey towards becoming an all-electric car company by 2030 but also will be the first car which is being delivered under our ambitious Online Direct Sales model. The response to the XC40 Recharge has been really encouraging with 150 car orders received online within 2 hours of opening bookings. I am delighted to announce that we already have close to 500 advance orders with us, and we will be delivering around 100 of them before the year-end. Rest of the customers will get their cars during the next year.” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra – Managing Director, Volvo Car India.
The XC40 Recharge was launched on July 26 this year at Rs 55.90 lakh ex-showroom with a hassle-free ownership package. Volvo’s first electric SUV garnered an overwhelming response from luxury car buyers in India, with the business registering online bookings of 150 cars within few hours of starting bookings on July 27th. The XC40 Recharge has a phenomenal range of upto 418 kilometres on a single charge as per WLTP. This feature has increased consumer confidence and addressed common misconceptions regarding EV range.
All XC40 Recharge owners will also get two year membership of the exclusive Tre Kronor program. Tre Kronor membership offers benefits and services designed exclusively for Volvo XC40 Recharge car owners, keeping their satisfaction and comfort in mind.
By 2030, the company wants to offer exclusively purely electric vehicles and phase out all vehicles with internal combustion engines, including hybrids. This is aligned with the Company’s worldwide climate plan, which aims to minimize the life cycle carbon footprint per car through tangible action on a consistent basis.
Mercedes-Benz GLB, Edition 1, digitalweiß // Mercedes-Benz GLB Edition 1, digital white
Mercedes-Benz continues its product offensive in India, and is all set to launch its first-ever 7 seater luxury EV in its portfolio – the EQB.
The EQB also marks Mercedes-Benz India’s third luxury EV debut in 2022, preceded by the AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ and the ‘Made in India’ EQS 580 4MATIC. With EQB, Mercedes-Benz now strengthens its foundation for the electric roadmap in India, for the coming years.
Mercedes-Benz however, wants to offer its customers an array of drivetrains and product choices for potential niche segments. Listening to customers’ wishes, for the first-time ever, Mercedes-Benz will be launching a luxury EV along with its ICE sibling.
The EQB will be introduced in India along with the GLB- underlining Mercedes-Benz’s strategy of strengthening its product offering in the SUV segment.
Referred to as the ‘Mini GLS’, the versatile GLB will be Mercedes-Benz’s second 7-seater SUV in the portfolio, after the GLS.
The GLB reinterprets the characteristic appearance of a Mercedes SUV with its versatility and dynamism, making it highly functional and spacious vehicle for young active families.
With the GLB, Mercedes-Benz now has the largest SUV portfolio in the entire luxury automotive segment in India, ranging from the GLA up to the G-Class.
The GLB and the EQB will make their combined India market debut on December 2, 2022. Mercedes-Benz also commence the bookings of these SUVs and customers can book the SUVs online or at their nearest dealership, with an booking amount of Rs. 1.5 lakhs each.
Bentley is unveiling the Bentayga Odyssean Edition, continuing the story of extraordinary sustainable design, without compromise to the renowned Bentley character or craftsmanship. This new limited edition is focused in sustainability, and will be strictly limited to just 70 examples.
The first Odyssean Edition was launched in 2021 to the Flying Spur family, and took design influences from the EXP 100 GT concept car that defined Bentley’s view of luxury mobility in 2035 as part of its Beyond100 strategy. Similar to the Flying Spur Odyssean, the new Bentayga limited edition takes advantage of the benefits provided by a Hybrid powertrain.
Together, the Bentayga Hybrid’s V6 petrol engine, electric motor and new and improved 18.0 kWh battery deliver a remarkable spectrum of performance, from the calm of near-silent, zero emission EV mode to thrilling full-throttle acceleration, with an electric-only range improved to at least 28 miles (45 km) on the WLTP cycle.
With a combined output of 462 PS (456 bhp), the 3.0-litre TFSI V6 petrol engine and 100 kW electric motor-generator can power the Bentayga Hybrid from zero to 62 miles an hour (100 kmph) in just 5.3 seconds, with a top speed of 158 mph (254 kmph). The sensation of effortless power is, if anything, accentuated by the hybrid powertrain due to the capability of the electric motor to deliver its full torque output from zero revolutions per minute.
Bentley’s hybrid portfolio now consists of seven models out of 14 in total, meaning 50 per cent of the complete Bentley model range is now electrified.
Sustainability is not only focused on the powertrain, but with materials inside the cabin too. The open pore Koa veneer of the centre console uses 90 per cent less lacquer than high-gloss veneers, and allows the natural surface texture and aesthetic of the wood to be enjoyed. Selected from only the very best, most figured stock available, open-pore veneer is painted with just three ultra-thin layers of lacquer, together totalling only 0.1 mm in thickness.
The fascias and waistrails are finished in a sleek, minimalist Piano Linen veneer, while a dedicated three-colour leather scheme lends the whole interior new depth. Together with new materials, sustainable natural leather is used widely across the cabin, thanks to its long-term durability.
The cabin also features panels of beautifully crafted tweed made from 100 per cent British wool, twisting a blend of tonal colours into a bespoke yarn to create a unique natural luxury textile especially for Bentley.
Accents to the interior are in a soft, warm hide called Autumn, with customers able to choose from five specifications that utilise Beluga, Porpoise, Cricketball, Brunel or Burnt Oak leather in tandem with light, modern Linen hide. The resulting combination brings a unique three-colour palette – a first for the second-generation Bentayga. A unique Odyssean Edition treadplate becomes apparent when entering or exiting the car, and is matched with exterior D-pillar badging.
In common with the ombré finishes seen in the Flying Spur Odyssean, an exclusive embroidery style sees thread colours blend calmly into one another across the width of each seat.
To the exterior, painted Pale Brodgar accents on the 22-inches ten spoke wheels and lower brightware (front and rear bumpers, headlight and tail light surrounds and lower body side chrome) result in a uniquely serene character. A curated exterior palette of six colours have been recommended to harmonise with the Pale Brodgar accents, however, the full Bentley palette of over 60 colours can be chosen from.
As with Bentley’s Azure models, the Odyssean Edition prioritises the wellbeing and comfort of the vehicle’s occupants and make every journey a relaxing experience regardless of distance. Once outside the urban environment the powerful combination of 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and electric motor continue to deliver a quiet, refined driving experience.
The Bentayga Odyssean Edition promotes the wellbeing of its occupants through a combination of design, technology and craftsmanship. Its specification includes the Front Seat Comfort Specification, offering up to 22-way adjustability and a heating and ventilation function to maintain the body’s optimum temperature for comfort and alertness.
The sense of safe, serene progress and relaxed control is further enhanced by the Touring Specification of driver assistance systems. Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, slowing down (to a halt if necessary) when the vehicle in front does so and resuming the set speed once the lane is clear. Together with Lane Assist, Traffic Assist and Bentley Safeguard, Bentley’s suite of onboard radar and camera systems constantly monitor the surrounding traffic and roads.
The Bentayga Hybrid has a dedicated button that allows control over the three E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode. These will enable the driver to manually manage battery usage during a journey – though this can also be managed automatically by the car.
EV Drive mode is engaged as soon as the car is switched on, and maximises the electric driving experience. This is ideal for city driving and for shorter journeys. The Bentley Hybrid Efficiency Accelerator Pedal provides feedback to the driver using a pressure point to denote the boundary between pure electric and hybrid power. Using predictive data from the Bentley Hybrid Efficiency Navigation database, the pedal will vibrate when approaching a junction or speed limit decrease, advising the driver to lift off the throttle, saving energy whilst also giving the maximum opportunity for regeneration. Haptic feedback through the throttle pedal of the transition between the E Motor disengaging and the internal combustion engine starting encourages the driver to stay in EV Drive for as long as possible, maximising efficiency. In pure electric drive, the E Motor continues to function up to speeds of up to 84mph.
Hybrid Mode maximises vehicle efficiency and range using data from the intelligent navigation system. This mode is suited for longer journeys and uses predictive E-Mode and engine coasting whilst following directions from the navigation system. Inputting a destination, the car will automatically engage the correct Drive Mode for each part of the journey, constantly calculating the most efficient use of battery charge and storing electrical energy for sections of the journey where it is most useful – such as when arriving in the city. The system will reduce on-board charge to zero just as the vehicle reaches its destination, maximising overall efficiency.
Hold Mode balances engine and electric power to hold high voltage battery charge for later use. This is the default mode when in Sport is to provide consistent boost and recuperation.
Bentley Hybrid Efficiency Braking blends seamless integration of braking between the E Motor and conventional hydraulic braking, to provide a conventional feel to the brake pedal for comfort and the driving experience while maximising recuperation of energy.
The Bentayga Odyssean Edition offers the ultimate in electrified luxury, with smooth and silent progress through urban environments, whilst having the grand touring capability to escape the city and explore further.
By 2025, the full Bentley line-up will be offered with hybrid powertrains, coinciding with the launch of the first ever Bentley Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV).
Bentayga Odyssean Edition goes on sale in November, ahead of a start of production in Q1 2023.
JK Tyre Bengal Speed Fest 2022 was held in the industrial town of Haldia during the weekend of 29th October – 30th October 2022. This was the third year of the Naional Autocross Championship with other supporting 2Wheeler and 4Wheeler events which witnessed stiff competition amongst the top drivers and riders of this zone. The 10,000 strong local crowd were thrilled to witnessed the battle of supremacy.
Having JK Tyre on board as Title Sponsor and Ramakrishna Race Performance Management Pvt. Ltd. (RRPM) as the Marketing Partner provided a great boost to the event which was also supported by the Haldia Municipality and Haldia Development Authority among other organisations.
The event was a combination of 4Wheeler Autocross, Gymkhana and 2Wheeler Dirt Track including the East Zone Qualifier of Indian National Autocross Championship. There were six categories of events in the JK Tyre Bengal Speed Fest 2022. The total number of entries received were 198 among which there was three lady participants.
In the 4Wheeler Indian National Autocross Championship Qualifier, local lad Sk. Saddam Ali clocked the best timing of the event with 1 minute 32.020 seconds, closely followed by Mazdeyar K. Vatcha, Sk. Ibrahim Ali, Sourabh Chowdhury and Souradeep Dutta which rounded off the top five positions.
Avik Saha, Barun Chowdhury and Sk. Alivia also emerged victorious in their respective categories in 4 Wheeler. Crowd favourite and top contender Suhail Ahmed emerged fastest in the 2Wheeler Dirt Track followed by Shivam Thakur, Indrashish Shyam Roy and Uday Ganguly completing the top four positions.
Speaking on the occasion, Saurav Chatterjee and Sk. Ajgar Ali, the key organisers of this event explained the aim of the event is to woo the youth away from road racing to regulated motor sports, where safety of the drivers and riders is of paramount importance. They explained that Autocross is not only about raw speed; one has to match that with driving acumen and physical stamina as well.
The goal of FMSCI, the apex body of Indian Motorsports, is to identify young budding talents from the regional zones and thus JK Tyre Bengal Speed Fest 2022 is a big step forward to the eminent goal. Motor Sports Association of Eastern India and Kolkata Automotive Sports Association along with RRPM the organising motor sports clubs together shall be the guiding force of raw talents in the near future.
Even as an impending cyclonic storm threatened to play spoilt sport, the members of Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) – an active body of historic car enthusiasts – gathered in front of the Town Hall on Friday, October 21, to participate in the EIMG Drive To East Himalaya Rally Flag Off 2022.
This historic vehicle run – which also marked the beginning of the vintage and classic car season for EIMG members – was flagged off from the iconic Town Hall in Kolkata and culminated at The Westin in Rajarhat. This non-competitive event witnessed participation spanning several decades of automotive history.
Around 30 historic four and two wheelers were in attendance on this autumnal morning among which were Shrivardhan Kanoria’s 1923 Rolls-Royce Sports & 1931 Chevrolet Big 6, Rajiv Ghosh’s 1932 Ford V8 & 1949 Buick 8, Avik Naha’s 1948 Buick 8, Sourav Sett’s 1949 MG Y, Saikat Dutta’s 1963 Triumph Spitfire, Subhajit Kumar’s 1964 Herald & 1969 Fiat 1100d, Debaprem Chatterjee’s 1975 Ambassador, Onurag Chatterji’s 1989 Yezdi and Sarojesh Mukerjee’s 1994 Mazda Miata, just to name a few.
The convoy of heritage vehicles began the run from Town Hall and drove past the Raj Bhavan before being diverted onto Mayo Road and then finally merging with Red Road. The cars continued straight before turning left onto Hospital Road and then embarking on the AJC Bose Road flyover.
The vehicles later traversed the entire stretch of the Maa flyover before alighting just ahead of the Hotel JW Marriot. The convoy proceeded straight to embark onto the Chingrihata flyover and then onward towards Nicco Park.
The historic vehicles then drove past Wipro, Technopolis and Fairfield by Marriot before making the left turn from Biswa Bangla Gate. A short drive from this point saw the convoy arriving at The Westin in Rajarhat, where a bevy of classics along with the participants of the East Himalaya Rally awaited to welcome us.
The slight nip in the air offered the EIMG members the perfect excuse to bask under the autumnal sun as they walked around inspecting the heritage wheels on display, each of which has a considerable amount of history, several miles on the odometer and interesting tales. The EIMG members also mingled with the East Himalaya Rally participants, many of whom very graciously shared several anecdotes about their travels and classics.
Shri Babul Supriyo, Minister of Tourism, Government of West Bengal graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and together with EIMG President Shrivardhan Kanoria flagged-off the East Himalaya Rally participants for a motoring adventure which would taken them across three countries – India, Bhutan and Nepal covering a total distance of 3,244 kilometres. The East Himalaya Rally is scheduled to end in Kolkata on Saturday, November 12.
Post the flag-off ceremony, EIMG member Mr. Sumit Periwal hosted a lavish breakfast meet for the EIMG officials and members that provided everyone with a platform to share a great camaraderie over tales and laughter.
Photographs by Sourish Meryson and Deepanjan Sarkar.
Power Drive 