Indian racer Jehan Daruvala scored his sixth podium of the season in the French round of the Formula 2 championship, as he left the Paul Ricard track with yet another strong points-scoring weekend.

Jehan started Saturday’s Sprint race from pole position and after a lightning start led into the first corner. He was comfortably holding his own at the front when an incident involving three cars brought out the safety car.

Jehan timed the restart to perfection, allowing him to open up a small gap to second-placed Liam Lawson. But the latter’s superior straight-line speed allowed him to close in.

It looked like it would only be a matter of time before Lawson used his car’s superior speed down the straights to get past Jehan and sure enough the Kiwi swept around the outside into Turn 1.

Jehan held his line but the pair touched which opened up a tear on Jehan’s front tyre. But he fortunately didn’t suffer a puncture.

A few laps later Marcus Armstrong attempted to pass Jehan for second at the same corner but on the inside. They made contact but Jehan, forced wide across the chicane, kept his position.

He had to slow down significantly, however, to give up any advantage he may have gained, which allowed Lawson to pull clear at the front.

Armstrong was handed a five-second penalty for forcing Jehan off the track

On Sunday, Jehan started the Feature race from 10th on the grid. But he fought his way up to seventh as a combination of strategy, which put Jehan in the lead before his stops, and blistering speed after his late switch to fresh tyres, saw him climb up the order.

Jehan said, “It’s good to be back on the podium after what happened in Silverstone and Austria. We were struggling with pace down the straights but had some good battles to finish 2nd. We would have finished even higher in the Feature race with our strategy to run a long first stint but we gambled on a safety car and stayed out a bit longer than ideal. Other than that, it was a solid weekend for us. We still have some areas to work on and I’m confident we’ll come back stronger next weekend in Hungary.”

Jehan’s second-place finish in France was his fifth this season. The 23-year-old, who races for Italian team Prema, was robbed of a potential fourth F2 victory by a post-race penalty in the last round in Austria.

The Red Bull-backed racer, who earlier this week completed a second Formula One test with McLaren, now heads to Hungary, the last round of a busy month of racing before the annual summer break.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic BMW M GmbH, BMW India has launched an exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Edition’ of the BMW 5 Series in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 67,50,000. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the exclusive edition comes in a petrol variant – the BMW 530i M Sport. Available in limited numbers only, this bespoke model can be booked exclusively online.

BMW India had recently announced that it will launch 10 exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Editions’ to celebrate the M sub-brand that stands for high-performance adrenaline gushing cars.

The BMW 5 Series is an individualist within the premium executive segment. The BMW 5 Series strengthens its leading position with numerous style updates. Complementing its sporting appeal is the most powerful performance in the segment.

BMW 5 Series is headlined by immense presence and exquisite sporting style with large, clean and tautly drawn surfaces. Sitting proudly above the BMW Kidney Grille is the iconic M Emblem along with ‘50 Years of M’ door projector inspired by the classic ‘BMW Motorsport’ logo. Visually distinct from the conventional BMW emblem, it signals passion for racing and for the roots of the BMW M brand. The M emblem adorns the front and rear logo as well as the wheel hub caps. BMW Laserlight, unique in this vehicle segment, distributes light perfectly up to 650 metres and is accentuated by the M Lights Shadowline which offers a dark tint around the headlamps. The bold impression is also underlined by the BMW Individual high gloss shadow line which includes the BMW Kidney grille in black high gloss along with window surrounds and tailpipe finishers in black high gloss. Dynamic character is emphasised by aerodynamically optimised bodywork elements of the M Sport package. Distinct wheel arches give a luxurious and dynamic appearance to the car’s side profile. At the rear, the real eye-catcher is the brand-new L shape light graphic that emerges from the taillight in a three-dimensional form.

Another exclusive feature that enhances the sporting appeal is the 18-inch 662M jet black alloys wheels with Red M Sport Brake Callipers. The car is available in striking paint finishes including M Carbon Black, Bernina Grey Amber Effect, Phytonic Blue and Alpine White, paired with Sensatec Perforated upholstery in Cognac finish with contrast stitching.

Customers can add sporting character to every detail with an optional M Accessories Package. Racer’s Package gives an exterior upgrade that includes side skirt transfers in black, rear spoiler in matt black and key fob. The Motorsport Package takes one step further and offers exterior mirror caps in carbon fibre to give a sportier look. Carbon Package is for the enthusiast who wants to turn heads when on the road. It can further enhance the sporty character of the car as all the accessories are in carbon fibre material such as kidney grille, rear spoiler pro, mirror caps etc.

Interior of the BMW 5 Series blends contemporary elegance with driver-focused cockpit design. It provides the ideal environment for driving pleasure and comfortable ride over long distances. Sports seats with leather covers, seat belts with stitching in M colours, sports leather steering wheel and specific trim strips augment the sporty feel. Ergonomically optimised lumbar support enables vertical and lateral seat adjustment for a relaxed journey. The centre console’s unique design is underscored by BMW Individual interior trim finishers in Piano Black finish and black ceramic surround for controls. Perforated sensatec upholstery in Cognac creates a luxurious impression with contrast stitching and fine quilting. Ambient lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. The car has four-zone automatic climate control with extended features. Luggage compartment has a capacity of up to 600 litres, extending to 1,800 litres thanks to the 40/20/40 split.

Thanks to unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds, with acceleration figures. The 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 530i generates maximum output of 252 hp and peak torque of 350 Nm with 0-100 kmph acceleration in just 6.1 seconds.

The eight speed steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth gearshifts. For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function. Adaptive suspension with its individual electronically controlled dampers offers exceptional precision and improves the drive and handling dynamics. The damper response settings vary according to the mode selected with the Driving Experience Control switch, that allows driver to choose between different modes to suit the driving conditions – Comfort, Sport, ECO PRO and Adaptive, with an extra Sport+ mode for a sportier driving experience.

Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a bigger 12.3-inch Control Display. The occupants can operate several functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognises six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto ensures seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System conjures an engrossing treat for the ears. High-end 16 speaker system with woofers generates an impressive audio experience in all seats. BMW Display Key allows drivers to keep in contact with their car round the clock.

Driver assistance systems with Parking Assistant makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. The Comfort Access System makes it possible to open all four vehicle doors without using the key.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control. BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobiliser and crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounting and emergency spare wheel.

The Concours of Elegance is delighted to reveal that this September’s automotive extravaganza will feature a selection of the very finest pre-war British motor cars. The glamorous line-up – handpicked from the world’s leading car collections – will chart the progression of Britain’s innovative, resourceful marques during this fascinating era. The selection will star as part of a wider Concours display featuring 70 of the world’s rarest, most spectacular vehicles, assembled in the immaculate grounds of Hampton Court Palace from the 2nd to 4th September.

The line-up of British machinery will include not one but two examples of the most famous Rolls-Royce of all, the remarkable Silver Ghost; an emblem of Edwardian engineering excellence, from a time when’s Britain led the automotive world. The ‘Ghost’, when launched to the world was a real engineering tour de force, renowned for its exceptional mechanical refinement and effortless power. From 1910 onwards the Ghost was equipped with a smooth, near silent – hence the ‘Ghost; name – 7.4-litre 50 hp straight-six, giving imperious performance and that left contemporary rivals firmly in its dust. The first Ghost that will be on show emerged from the factory on the 30th of August 1912; this grand, stately automobile will appear at Hampton Court Palace days after its 110th birthday. Chassis 2092 was a particularly lavish example, specified with a seven-passenger cabriolet body, its fittings in gleaming brass, rather than the usual nickel. It lived in the UK until the late 1940s, when it travelled by ship from Blackpool to Boston. It remained in the USA for some time, its enthusiast owners including Alex E. Ullman, founder of the famed Sebring 12 Hours race. It returned to the UK in 2001 when it was treated to a full restoration and fitted with an original Arthur Mulliner body – tracked down in Sweden. This wonderful Ghost has since competed with success at concours competitions including Pebble Beach and Amelia Island, whilst also touring extensively, covering 40,000 miles across the US and throughout Europe in recent years; a great car used as intended.

The second Ghost that will grace Hampton Court later this year also left the factory in late 1912, fitted with a Tourer body by Arthur Mulliner of Northampton. It was a particularly special example – an exact duplicate of Chassis 1710, the famous Ghost that won the London to Edinburgh rally in 1911. The Ghost had such effortless power from the gargantuan 7-4-litre engine, that it was able to complete the entire 400-mile journey in top gear. The car that will be on show this September spent much of its early life north of the border, before also crossing the Atlantic in the mid 1950s. It was owned by a prominent member of the Rolls-Royce Owners Club, who replaced the Mulliner coachwork with a ‘Hooper Tourer’ body. It returned to the UK in 1989 and starred as part of marque experts P&A Wood’s Silver Ghost centenary celebrations. This September’s event will offer an excellent chance to examine this splendid brace of richly detailed Silver Ghosts up close – united 110 years after they rolled out of the factory – motor cars that rank among Britain’s greatest of all.

The Concours of Elegance will also welcome the most revered Vauxhall of all this September, the 1925 30/98 Wensum Tourer. When new the high-performance, sporting car – known as the “King of Thoroughbreds” – was locked in fierce competition with the Bentley 4.5-litre. Launched back in 1913 as the 30/98 Velox, the model was upgraded in 1922 to become the ‘OE’, with a cutting-edge overhead valve engine. Performance was highly impressive, with over 100 mph possible. The car that will be on show at Hampton Court is the most special 30/98 variant, one of just 12 cars supplied with the ‘ultra-sporting’ Wensum body, the light weight of which gave them even more sprightly performance. With its dramatic V-shaped windshield, head-turning ‘boattail’ coachwork – inspiration for which was taken from contemporary speedboat design – the Wensum was among the most stylish cars of its day. Chassis OE259 is particularly striking with its gleaming chrome finish. It is believed to be one of just six surviving cars, and likely the most original of all, its interior largely unchanged since it left the Vauxhall factory nigh on 100 years ago. One of the last cars produced by the marque before its takeover by General Motors in 1926, the Vauxhall 30/98s retains a particular significance in British automotive history. These fine Edwardian motor cars are, particularly in ultra-rare Wensum Tourer form are highly coveted by collectors.

Also lining up in the Palace grounds will be the 30/98’s aforementioned rival: the 4.5-litre W.O. Bentley. Bentley, founded in 1919, quickly developed a reputation for producing distinguished sporting cars, offering both 3-litre and 6 ½ litre machines to the moneyed elite. The 4 ½ litre was first introduced in 1927, effectively replacing the 3-litre car which had become outdated by the late ‘20s. The new model was more powerful than the 70 bhp 3-litre car, packing 110 bhp in ‘touring’ form, and 130 bhp in race trim. The 4 ½ litre – a powerful, sporting road car, was also highly effective as a competition machine, winning at the famous 24 hours of Le Mans on its debut in 1928. The example on show in under two months’ time will be a 1929 Vanden Plas Tourer model, formerly owned by Johnnie Green founder of the Bentley Drivers’ Club. Chassis DS3575 sat in storage for decades, before being sent for restoration at R.C. Moss in recent years. Great effort was made to ensure that it emerged from this process looking just as it did when it left the factory in 1929 – the restoration firm going so far as to track down and restore one of the original Rexine machines used for finishing the Bentley’s bodywork in period. This exceptional British motor car presents superbly, even retaining its original tool kit and owner’s handbook. Another fine example of British engineering, and one not to be missed.

The fantastic array of pre-war British machinery will be capped off by a superb Lagonda V12 Rapide ‘Drop Head Coupe’, which was launched to the world in 1938 as conflict loomed over Europe. The Rapide V12 was introduced by Lagonda as a high-performance luxury grand-tourer, pitted against the dominant Alfa Romeo 2900, with the aim of setting new standards for the class. The ‘DHC’ – built on a shortened chassis – was a rakish de-facto two-seater, with only a small, removable rear bench behind the driver and passenger. Designed by Lagonda’s in-house designer, Frank Feely – who went on to work for Aston Martin – the Rapide DHC remains a strikingly beautiful car, offering an understated British take on the 1930s streamliner look. The elegant, reserved coachwork belied significant performance, with a fabulously smooth 180 bhp 4.5-litre V12 – designed by a certain W.O. Bentley – under the long bonnet; the Rapide V12 was as match for anything on the open roads of Europe. Such was the performance potential, that modified versions with lighter bodies competed at Le Mans, securing 3rd and 4th place in 1939. The Rapide V12 was also something of a technological tour de force, with independent front suspension and synchromesh for 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears. Unfortunately, production was short-lived; just 17 Rapide V12 DHCs were built before the disruption of war halted play in 1940. This particular car was completed in the September of 1939, just weeks after war broke out, and was soon exported to the United States, where it remained until 1989. On its return to the UK it was restored, and its V12 upgraded to effective Le Mans spec, with four carburettors and modified heads. September’s event will offer an opportunity to savour this stunning and exceptionally rare motor car from the very end of the pre-war era.

These superb British motor cars and many more besides will be on show at this September’s glamourous event, assembled in the immaculate Palace grounds, with further star cars set to be announced in the coming weeks. Outside the main display of vehicles, the Concours of Elegance will assemble around 1,000 further cars in a series of special features and displays, as well as a live collector car auction by Gooding & Co.

James Brooks-Ward, Concours of Elegance CEO, said: “we’re delighted to reveal the fabulous array of highly significant, pre-war British motor cars that will star at Hampton Court Palace in under two months’ time, adding to our already sensational line-up. The hand-picked selection will highlight the ingenuity, flair and irrepressible spirit that underpinned Britain’s automotive industry during the pre-war period.

“The Concours of Elegance is renowned internationally for assembling the finest automobiles in existence, in the most spectacular of settings, and our tenth anniversary show will raise the bar once again; it really is going to be the ultimate automotive extravaganza.”

Away from the automotive displays, Concours of Elegance will once again be an occasion of pure luxury, with champagne provided by Charles Heidsieck, picnics by Fortnum & Mason, and a collection of art, jewellery and fashion displays. Presenting Partner A. Lange & Sohne will once again showcase some of its most intricate timepieces.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has premiered its recently unveiled new Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Toyota’s first Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric SUV and the first of its kind, in the B SUV segment in India. As one of Toyota’s sustainable mobility offerings, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder inherits Toyota’s global SUV lineage with its bold styling and technology features, making it a competitive product in the segment. The new model promises to deliver a blend of performance and fuel efficiency along with a quiet cabin, making the new SUV a perfect match for the diverse needs of the Indian car buyer.

Showcased at a very special viewing in Kolkata, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder is based on the Advanced Body Structure and has been designed for a greener future, promising to deliver a combination of performance, fuel economy, quick acceleration, lower emissions, and a smooth drive.

This special viewing was graced and inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr. Firhad Hakim, Honorable Minister in-Charge, Department of Transport, Housing, Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Govt. of West Bengal. Also present at the occasion was the Guest of Honor, Mr. Dilip Mondal, Honorable Minister of State for Transport, Govt. of West Bengal, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Executive Vice President, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Mr. Varinder Wadhwa, General Manager Associate, Strategic Business Unit, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, amongst other dignitaries from the Govt. of West Bengal.

Apart from the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, the special premier also showcased a range of electrified vehicle technologies, including Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric, Plug-in Hybrid Electric, Fuel Cell and Battery Electric Vehicle technology.

In-line with its global philosophy of shifting rapidly towards sustainable mobility, the latest offering from Toyota in India will be powered by an e-drive transmission with 2WD. Being a Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle, the Urban Cruiser Hyryderis capable of running 40 per cent of the distance and 60 per cent of time on electric (EV) or zero emission mode. The new model is also available with a 1.5-litre K-series engine with Neo Drive (ISG), 5 Speed Manual Transmission & 6 Speed Automatic Transmission with 2WD & a first in the segment, 4WD option.

Over the years, Toyota has constantly worked towards advancing electrified vehicle technologies in India with a focus on local procurement of electric powertrain parts, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative promoted by the Government. The company has a strong focus on rapidly embracing the shift towards sustainable mobility by bringing practical solutions, that best meets the customer needs and energy mix of the country. This in turn can result in the widespread acceptance of environment friendly technologies to create a positive impact and enhancing energy security of the country.

Sharing his thoughts at the event, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Executive Vice President, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We are proud to add yet another milestone product to our line-up of electrified vehicles in India. Over the last 25 years, Toyota in India has continuously worked towards meeting the mobility needs of consumers. Today, with over two million satisfied customers, our focus in India continues to be the introduction of advanced products that are safer and cleaner and a good match for the energy mix of the country. Achieving ‘Carbon Neutrality’ has always been the biggest challenge before us. which,fighting against carbon will require multiple technology pathways and our latest offering is another step in that direction. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder offers a Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric powertrain which truly reflects Toyota’s advanced green technology. For the first time as a part of Toyota’s global alliance with Suzuki, this model will be manufactured at TKM’s plant in Karnataka. We strongly believe, this vehicle will provide a world-class motoring experience to all our customers.”

Speaking about the segment and the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Mr. Varinder Wadhwa, General Manager Associate– Strategic Business Unit, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota, we always bring in models based on our studies on consumer preferences and industry trends. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder, the first of its kind Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle in the segment, is aimed at delivering exemplary performance, best in class fuel efficiency, quick acceleration, and a smooth drive. Over the years, Toyota’s share has grown substantially in the SUV segments. The dominance of our premium offerings like the segment leading Toyota Fortuner, the Legender,and good acceptance of the Urban Cruiser are due to their bold and sophisticated styling backed by design inspired by Toyota’s global SUV lineage. We are confident that the Urban Cruiser Hyryder will create substantial excitement and further reinstate our presence in the coveted B-SUV segment in India with its several ‘best in segment’ features like the AWD(All Wheel Drive), Panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloy, wireless charger, Heads Up Display (HUD) & 360-degree camera and connected DCM (Data Communication Module), making it the ideal choice for all automobile enthusiasts.”

On the exterior, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder boasts of LED project headlamp, twin LED daytime running lamp, side turn indicator, sporty rear skid plate, wide trapezoidal lower grille, dual tone body colour, unique crystal acrylic upper grille with chrome garnish, sleek & dynamic R17 alloy wheels and LED tail lamp.

Dimensionally, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder measures 4365 mm in length, 1795 mm in width and 1635 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2600 mm. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder will be available in seven monotone and four dual tone colours – Cave Black, Sportin Red, Speedy Blue, Enticing Silver, Cafe White, Gaming Grey, and Midnight Black. Dual tone colour option (with Black roof) is available with Cafe White, Sporting Red, Enticing Silver and Speedy blue.

The interiors are beautifully crafted to perfectly suit the bespoke experience offered by Toyota. The new SUV in Self-charging Strong Hybrid Electric grades, have a stunning black and brown interior and Neo Drive grades boast of an all black interior, which combine to provide a stellar experience.

The front interior features come with 9-inch smart play cast audio, drive mode switch, Wireless charging, leather seats with ventilation, 360-degree camera & view, ambient light, door spot + IP line, head-up display, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering, Hello Google & Hey Siri voice assistant and a soft touch instrument panel with premium switch. Other additional features include reclining rear seats, rear AC vents, 60:40 seat split and USB rear points. To make the ownership experience even more awesome, Toyota offers a customised range of 66 accessories designed exclusively for the Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

Bookings have begun from July 1, 2022, for an amount of INR 25,000.

Nissan Motor India has announced the start of pre-bookings for the Nissan Magnite RED edition, which will be officially launched on July 18.

With over one lakh bookings and 50,000 deliveries, Nissan Magnite is one of the most loved cars in the segment. The vehicle has seen phenomenal response from the customers and media, winning a number of awards in the B-SUV segment since launch. To take the journey of transformation forward, the Nissan Magnite RED edition is set to be launched on July 18.

The Nissan Magnite RED’s muscular exteriors have been further enhanced with spectacular aesthetic details, including a red accent that covers the front grille, front bumper cladding, wheel arch and body side cladding. Major design additions include bold body graphics, a tail door garnish, an LED Scuff plate, and a prominent RED Edition specific badge. The RED edition has also been upgraded with sophisticated tech features to meet the needs of new-age customers, including a wireless charger and an ambient mood lighting.

Nissan Magnite RED edition is based on most popular XV variant, which means, it comes with many best in segment features such as 8.0 touchscreen with Wifi connectivity, 7.0 full TFT instrument cluster, LED DRLs, R16 Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels etc.

Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India said, “We are excited to commence bookings for our New Nissan Magnite RED edition. Our Big, Bold, Beautiful SUV Magnite has underlined the value of Nissan’s global SUV heritage for the Indian market, Nissan Magnite RED edition promises to create unique driving experiences for young, discerning audience. We are confident that the Nissan Magnite RED’s bold design, power-packed performance, comfort, advanced technologies, and connectivity features will captivate the customers and create memorable journeys.”

Nissan recently updated Nissan Magnite with MY22 launch, which included dual horn, shark fin antenna, and a PM2.5 filter, improving in-cabin experience and aesthetics of the model.

Nissan Magnite RED Edition will be offered in three variants, Magnite XV MT RED Edition, Magnite Turbo XV MT RED Edition, and Magnite Turbo XV CVT RED Edition.

Other key features include an 8.0 touchscreen with Wifi connectivity, 7.0 full TFT instrument cluster, LED DRLs, R16 Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, Push button Start/Stop, LED Fog Lamp, Vehicle dynamics Control, Traction Control System, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist etc.

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has announced that its cumulative two-wheeler sales in West Bengal have now crossed 20 lakh units’ mark.

In 2001, HMSI began operations with its maiden two-wheeler Activa. It took Honda 17 years to reach the 10 lakh sales milestone in the eastern state – a significant two-wheeler hub in India.

Honda has now successfully doubled its customers in West Bengal by adding the recent 10-lakh customers in just last 5 years. Noteworthy, with Activa 6G and Shine leading the two-wheeler demand in West Bengal.

Thanking customers for this landmark feat, Mr. Atsushi Ogata – Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “We are delighted with this milestone in West Bengal state. On behalf of HMSI, I thank our customers in the state for reposing their trust in HMSI’s quality & service. The growth recovery in two-wheeler demand will allow us to serve our customers even better as we make further in-roads into the state with enhanced customer experience. Moving ahead, HMSI’s expanding line of products will continue to deliver on its promise of top-notch riding experience for two-wheeler community.”

Indian racer Jehan Daruvala endured a character-building weekend at the Silverstone round of the Formula 2 championship as he finished outside the top-three for only the second time in seven rounds but still came away with a double points finish.

The 23-year-old finished 8th and 7th in the Sprint and Feature race respectively, taking home a total of seven points on a weekend of damage limitation for the lead Red Bull-backed racer in the standings.

Jehan started Saturday’s Sprint race from pole on a wet track and established a comfortable early lead. But the car, set up for mixed conditions, did not allow the wet weather tyres to be used to their optimum which led to them overheating and Jehan struggling for grip. Prema team mate Dennis Hauger, who finished 15th, suffered similarly.

Fired up to make amends in Sunday’s Feature race, Jehan, starting on the harder prime tyre, decided to play the long game. He looked after his tyres during the early stages of the race and, while briefly in the lead, unleashed his speed as his pitstop approached.

He continued lighting up the timing screens on the grippier option tyre as he fought his way back up the order.

Jehan showed strong pace all weekend. But getting a strong result in Sunday’s Feature race was always going to be an uphill task, with Jehan starting 10th after the qualifying strategy of setting one flying lap per tyre set did not work as most of his rivals found more pace on their second ‘push’ laps

Jehan said, “This wasn’t our weekend but that’s motor-racing sometimes. While I’m naturally disappointed, there are still positives that we can take away. The next race at the Red Bull Ring is only a week away. It’s a home race for us Red Bull juniors. We’ve shown both pace and consistency over the course of this season and I’m confident we can bounce back next weekend in Austria.”

Volvo Car India today announced that its first all-electric offering the XC40 Recharge will be officially launched on metaverse. The launch is planned on July 26 that will witness the much-awaited price announcement for the XC40 Recharge in India. Close on the heels of announcing that the XC40 Recharge will be the first luxury EV to be assembled in India comes another first. This will be the first time that the sunrise technology of metaverse will be used in India, to launch a car. Metaverse takes the internet to a new futurist 3-D level that is a combination of multiple different virtual spaces. The metaverse launch of the XC40 Recharge will usher a new era of digital connectivity offering a 3D experience. The Metaverse launch has been designed by Mindshare and its collaborative partners

“Volvo is known for harnessing the power of technology in providing safer and hi tech cars. Leveraging the capabilities of metaverse is just another example of Volvo Car using the latest technology from a vantage point in marketing. This is the first time in the history of the Indian auto industry that a new launch has been done on this platform. We are confident that the XC40 Recharge with its over 400km per charge range will be widely accepted by customers who are looking for an EV with all the safety and luxury features that Volvo Cars are synonymous with” said Mr Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director Volvo Car India.

The XC40 Recharge pure electric becomes the latest one to join the locally assembled portfolio of Volvo Cars in India.

Talking about this unique initiative on the metaverse, Amin Lakhani, CEO, South Asia Mindshare said, “Innovation and creativity play a vital role and are contributing to the development of our industry. Creative marketing solutions driven by technology are what we aim to offer our clients. There is a constant effort to leverage emerging tech and create unique brand experiences for consumers. By collaborating and utilizing the strengths of partners such as Hogarth, Yonder, Grey, and Genesis BCW, Mindshare seeks to help businesses build deeper relationships with their audiences. We are excited to make Metaverse history with Volvo’s first-ever EV launch.”

Nissan India has appointed Mohan Wilson as Director Marketing, Product & Customer Experience, for Business Transformation for India market. Mohan Wilson replaces Sriram Padmanabhan and will take over the role effective July 1, 2022.

Mohan has worked across geographies in Japan, Hong Kong, Germany and India with cross functional experience of over 20 years in sales and marketing with expertise in areas of Brand building, MarCom, Product Marketing, Customer Experience, Corporate Strategy and Data driven Marketing. Prior to this, Mohan was head of Global Marketing Planning at Nissan Motor Corporation’s Premium car brand INFINITI at Global HQ in Japan and was a part of new Model Launch introductions for INFINITI globally with all-new QX60 & QX55.

Mohan Wilson in his role will report to Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, and will be based in Chennai. He will focus on transformation of the India business on future Product strategy for India, build a strong Brand with focus on Customer Experience and will leverage his experience gained at Nissan Motor Corporation’s Global HQ office in Yokohama, Japan.

Sriram Padmanabhan, who has overseen the successful launch of the Nissan Magnite in India as Director Marketing, Product & Customer Experience has been appointed Director Marketing, Product & Customer Experience for Nissan Motor Australia. In this newly created role, Sriram will report to Adam Paterson, Managing Director Nissan Australia and will be based in Australia.

Rakesh Srivastava, MD, Nissan Motor India, commented “Sriram has been an asset for Nissan India with strong contribution towards successful launch of Big, Bold, Beautiful Nissan Magnite under Nissan Next with Nissan Magnite generating a tremendous customer response with over 1 lakh bookings and receipt of the Global Nissan President’s Award. We welcome Mr Mohan Wilson to Nissan Motor India, his global exposure on premium cars would be key to build Nissan brand with focus on customer experience on Nissan NEXT transformation. “

With the world premiere of the ID. AERO concept car in China, Volkswagen is providing a foretaste of the brand’s first global fully-electric sedan. The future model will be positioned in the premium mid-size sedan segment. Its progressive, stylish and aerodynamic design allows the vehicle to impress with generous space in the interior. The production version for China is expected to go on sale in the second half of 2023. Volkswagen is also planning to start production of a European series version in Emden in 2023.

“With the ID. AERO show car, we are revealing a preview of the next member of the ID. family. A car with an emotional and at the same time extremely aerodynamic design, a range of over 600 kilometres, an extraordinary amount of space and a premium interior,” says Ralf Brandstätter, Chief Executive Officer of Volkswagen Passenger Cars. “With our ACCELERATE strategy, we are intensively driving forward the electrification of our model range. Following the ID.4, this model will be our next global car for Europe, China and the US. ”

The concept vehicle is almost five metres long and was designed based on aerodynamic principles. The roof slopes elegantly to the rear in coupé style and contributes to achieving an excellent drag coefficient of 0.23. Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) additionally permits short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an exceptionally spacious vehicle interior. The ID. AERO is equipped with a powerful lithium-ion battery with a net energy content of 77 kWh. Thanks to the interaction of the efficient drive system and the excellent aerodynamic properties, the ID. AERO achieves ranges of up to 620 kilometres (WLTP)5, making it suitable for long distances.

Electric offensive in China: With the close-to-production ID. AERO concept car, Volkswagen is stepping up its electric offensive in China as part of its ACCELERATE strategy. Following the ID.33, ID.43 and ID.63, the production version of the ID. AERO will already be the fourth fully-electric model series in China, with expected availability in the second half of 2023. Two versions are planned there – one for each Volkswagen joint venture. Based on its regional strategy, Volkswagen is aiming to become the leading supplier of sustainable vehicles in China. As early as 2030, it is planned that at least every second vehicle sold in China will be an electric vehicle.

Volkswagen is driving forward its electric offensive worldwide on the Way to ZERO. As the new flagship model of the ID. family, the ID. AERO will therefore be offered globally in future – also in Europe and North America in addition to China.

Elegant design characterised by aerodynamics, wrap-around light strip and metallic paintwork. Stylistically, the ID. AERO transfers the design of the ID. family to a sedan in the premium mid-size segment for the first time. The aerodynamically designed front end and roof ensure that air flows optimally over the vehicle. The air flow is calmed by the slightly drawn-in rear end with a separation edge. The sporty 22-inch two-tone wheels are designed in the style of a turbine and are integrated flush into the wheel housings. Classic door handles are replaced by illuminated touch surfaces, which reduce the drag even further. At the top of the silhouette, the bold tornado line and downward sloping roof line shape the design. The powerful shoulder section of the ID. AERO is located above the tornado line. The contour lines make the electric sedan appear flatter and give it a dynamic look.

The ID. AERO concept vehicle has a Polar Light Blue Metallic paintwork – a light metallic colour shade whose colour pigments create a golden shimmer effect in appropriate light conditions. The roof is painted in a high-gloss black to contrast with the vehicle body.

The front end is characterised by the ID. honeycombs typical for the ID. family. The front is horizontally split into two in the bumper and is a defining style element for the ID. AERO design. As another distinctive feature that makes the ID. AERO stand out in the crowd, a narrow light strip extends horizontally across the front out to the left and right of the illuminated Volkswagen badge and above the innovative IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, wrapping into the wings and side panels. This light strip is continued visually to the rear end with a few interruptions. The dominant rear end features a striking dark light strip and LED tail light clusters with honeycomb structure that create an exclusive look.

The ID. AERO shows the versatility of the MEB. The ID. AERO demonstrates the flexibility of Volkswagen’s purely electric MEB architecture, which can be adapted for vehicles of different shapes and sizes. The MEB can be used across segments – from compact crossover or SUV and minibus through to spacious sedan. With the ID. AERO, the MEB therefore allows the ID. family to enter the mid-size sedan segment. The MEB also fully exploits the possibilities of electric mobility, allowing long ranges, a maximum of digital connectivity and over-the-air update capability.

It is expected that the production version of the ID. AERO for Europe will roll off the assembly line in the Emden plant in 2023. With volume production of electric vehicles, Emden will be one of the first Volkswagen plants of this kind in Lower Saxony and will make a decisive contribution to electrifying the model range and reducing the CO2 emissions of the overall new vehicle fleet.