The eighth edition of JK Tyre Himalayan Drive supported by Experience Bengal & GTA – will be flagged off from Siliguri’s City Center on March 23. Himalayan Drive 8, popularly referred to as HD8, will also form the Grand Finale of the Indian National Regulatory Run Championship (INRRC) 2021.
Just Sportz Management Pvt. Ltd., an affiliate of Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India (FMSCI), the National Sports Federation approved by Govt. of India proposes to run HD 8, a competitive TSD Car Rally from 23rd to 27th March 2022. Himalayan Drive which has already run seven successful editions from 2013 to 2019 with the active support of West Bengal Tourism and other government departments, has been able to showcase the North Bengal as a premier destination for adventure sports to the entire nation.
The Rally also draws inspiration from Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal Ms. Mamata Banerjee’s vision of connecting various regions of Bengal and encourage people to people connect in the region. Many of the previous editions have also travelled to neighbouring Bhutan and Nepal making it the only Tri-Nation Event of India. This has been another step in that direction of establishing a connect with our neighbours and towards the aspiration of Biswa Bangla – Connecting Bengal To The World. Though this year HD8 is unable to travel to the neighbouring countries due to Covid restrictions, the core ideology of connecting people and showcasing of North Bengal as a sought after destination continues to be at the core of the event.
Twenty-two qualifying teams including seven All Ladies teams from all over the country will pit their driving and navigation skills against each other through tough terrains, including dirt tracks, river beds, and narrow and steep mountain roads, in the three-day event in the bid to be crowned the Indian National Regularity (TSD) Rally Champion for 2021. The All Ladies teams will also be competing for the INRRC Ladies Cup. The INRRC qualifiers will concurrently take part in the Pro Category and another eight teams will be participating in the Adventure Category of Himalayan Drive 8.
The INRRC 2021 qualifying rounds for East, West, North, Central, South and Northeast zones were held over the past few months and Himalayan Drive 8 will be the Grand Finale of this championship.
After the ceremonial flag-off from City Center, Siliguri, on March 23 at 4 PM, the competitive part of the rally will begin on March 24. The competitors will drive through tea gardens, embankments and riverbeds spread over many parts of Jalpaiguri districts to reach Murti, a popular tourist destination. This first leg will also have a night stage.
The second leg will be flagged off from Murti on March 25. A very challenging route through narrow village roads, riverbeds, tea estates and the Himalayan foothills has been chalked out for this second leg that will culminate at Murti.
In the third and final leg, competitors will be flagged off from Murti and will take to the mountains, passing through scenic tea estates and popular tourist spots like Samsing and Gorubathan to cross the 80-year-old Coronation Bridge spanning the Teesta River to drive through mountain roads to cross Jorebunglow and Ghoom to culminate at Darjeeling.
The prize distribution ceremony will be held at Darjeeling on March 27.
The Zonal Champions: The Kolkata team of Subir Roy & Nirav Mehta have emerged as zonal champions from East Zone, while former national champions S.K. Ajgar Ali & Mohammed Musthafa won from North East zone, Sandip Mukherjee & Prakash M from West Zone, Adarsh Tiwari & Chirag Thakur from Central Zone and Santosh Kumar V & Nagarajan T from South Zone.
The press was welcomed by Mr. Siddhartha S. Bose, Director – Just Sportz and Chairman of the Rally and the conference was addressed by Mr. Tamal Ghosal Director – Just Sportz, Council Member & Chairman of Regularity Rally Commission of FMSCI, Mr. Suchandan Das, Director – Just Sportz & COC of HD8, Mr. Binny Sharma, Chief Rally Coordinator and moderated by Mr. Jaideep Mazumdar, Media Coordinator.
JK Tyres & Industries Limited, India’s leading tyre manufacturer, has been associated with Himalayan Drive as the Title Sponsor since its inception in 2013. According to Mr. Sanjay Sharma, Head – Corporate Communication and Motorsport – JK Tyres & Industries Limited said “We are really excited about the JK TYRE HIMALAYAN DRIVE 8. The fact that it is the National Championship Finals shows how the event has grown over the last 7-8 years into one of the important motorsports events in the country & It has been a privilege for JK Tyres to have been associated with event since inception & see it grow into it’s present avatar.”
According to Mr. Tamal Ghosal, “The first seven Himalayan Drive Rallies have unlocked the great prospect of adventure sports in the Eastern Himalayas. This year by becoming the Grand Finale of the National Championship it will showcase the best motorsports talent in India & it will be a privilege & honour to crown the National Champions at Darjeeling on 27th March 2022.”
Mr. Binny Sharma said: “The development of North Bengal, especially for tourism, is a priority for the Government. The Rally promises to showcase and unveil the lesser known and yet to be explored areas of North Bengal which, if properly marketed and will surely be one of the most treasured tourist destinations in India in times to come. I thank Just Sportz wholeheartedly for promoting such destinations.”
A glimpse of Kolkata’s first ever Concours D’Elegance
After the recent success of their Goodbye 2021 Breakfast Meet, Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) was back with yet another exquisitely curated event in the form of The Lake Club – EIMG Concours D’Elegance 2022 in association with ACE Commercial which was held on Sunday, March 13, 2022 at The Lake Club, Kolkata.
While the City of Joy has been witness to innumerable vintage and classic car events in the past, a few of which have been successfully organised by EIMG over the last couple of years, however, this particular event occupies a pride of place for being the city’s first ever Concours D’Elegance.
Ananda Chowdhury’s 1913 Stoewer – the oldest car of the show
The mere mention of the term ‘Concours D’Elegance’ among historical car enthusiasts conjures up the image of a very special automotive event. Like several objects of beauty and admiration, not surprisingly, the term ‘Concours D’Elegance’ is also French, and translates to ‘competition of elegance.’
According to sources, the first such events were held in France when carriages were still in use, and later shifted to automobiles in the early 20th century. Those early Concours not only celebrated automobiles, but women’s fashion and food as well. Prizes were awarded in all categories, and the celebrations extended over several days. Today, some critics of those early dismiss them as mere ‘beauty contests’. Judging was entirely subjective, which gave birth to the term ‘French judging’, which is still considered by many purists to be true Concours judging.
The participants, club members and guests enjoying their day out in the sun with the heritage wheels for company
Fast forward to March 2022, and EIMG sets the temperature soaring in Kolkata with an array of stunning automobiles which took part in The Lake Club – EIMG Concours D’Elegance. Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria, Founder and President of EIMG handpicked 80 heritage vehicles and classified them into seven different categories inspired by the world-renowned Pebble Beach and other internationally acclaimed Concours D’Elegance held globally. The cars were judged by Kanoria himself assisted by his Concours Restoration Team on the basis of authenticity, restoration, maintenance, historical importance, and rarity.
Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria (right) seen posing with Mr. Golam Momen and his 1938 Rolls Royce which triumphed in its category and won the Best of Show
While each of the 80 participating heritage vehicles on display at the EIMG Concours D’Elegance came with considerable history and interesting anecdotes from the yesteryear, however, worth a special mention are Ananda Chowdhury’s 1913 Stoewer (oldest car of the show), Hossain’s 1923 Panther, Sanjay Agarwal’s 1926 Fiat, Sanjay Ghosh’s 1932 Ford V8 (the maestro’s favourite), Azam Monem’s 1937 Rolls Royce (an exquisite car), Golam Momen’s 1938 Rolls Royce (a showstopper and the Best of Show), Rupak Ghosh’s 1947 MG (a marvel), Siddharth Swarup’s 1947 Wolseley (a very original car), Abhishek Jaiswal’s 1938 Mercedes (this came all the way from Ranchi for this event), Sanjay Ghosh’s 1947 Chevrolet (a stunner), S.K. Lahiri’s 1948 Plymouth (owned by a true blue enthusiast), Sarojesh Mukerjee’s 1959 Ford Zephyr (latest addition to Kolkata) and Saikat Dutta’s 1963 Triumph Spitfire (a head turner) that left the audience mesmerised.
Rekha Kanoria’s 1931 Chevrolet Big 6 (left) along with Shrivardhan Kanoria’s 1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1
Although not participating in the Concours D’Elegance, however, the two cars which drew admiration from onlookers were Shrivardhan Kanoria’s 1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 and Rekha Kanoria’s 1931 Chevrolet Big 6.
Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria, Founder and President – EIMG, commented: “Such shows are the call of the day when it comes to enjoying this Heritage Vehicle hobby. I feel it as an integral responsibility towards this movement and hence put in my time and effort towards organising these events, throughout the year, for the benefit and encouragement of the Heritage Vehicle owners of Eastern India.
Organising an event of this magnitude can’t succeed without the support of your team. I would like to thank Mr. Shubhajit Kumar, Secretary – EIMG for coordinating with our venue partner and Ms. Siddique Cowper & team for marshalling the event. I would like to acknowledge Mr. Dharmaditya (Julia) Patnaik (ACE Commercial) for sponsoring the beautiful mementoes and trophies and Mr. Diljeet Titus (founder of The Titus Museum) for hosting a gala dinner for the participants and EIMG team.”
Participants of the two wheelers category
“For the past three years, The Lake Club has been collaborating with EIMG in organizing this vintage and classic car & bike show for their members and guests. This annual event has steadily gained in popularity becoming one of the most awaited events in the Club’s calendar which witnesses a great turnout of exotic heritage cars, as well as a huge footfall of both members and guests, making this the best heritage motoring event in Kolkata. I’m grateful to Lake Club for their continued support”, Kanoria added.
The bevy of vintage and classic cars & bikes on display at the picturesque Lake Club
Californians like to regard Pebble Beach as the most prestigious heritage car show in the world. We Kolkatans are undoubtedly much more reserved in our acclaim, although the ‘zest and fervour’ that was witnessed The Lake Club – EIMG Concours D’Elegance 2022 was perhaps parallel to the best heritage car show anywhere in the world. California might have its Pebble Beach, London its Salon Prive’, Lago di Como its Villa d’Este, but Kolkata’s first Concours D’Elegance certainly has the potential to become as illustrious in years to come.
This marquee event will hopefully inspire other Kolkata based heritage motoring clubs to organise more Concours D’Elegance, but like Neil Armstrong, EIMG will always be known for doing it first.
Photographs courtesy Sourish Meryson and Deepanjan Sarkar.
Tata Motors has launched the much-awaited Altroz Dual Clutch Automatic (DCA) at a starting price of INR 8.1 lakhs. The Altroz DCA is equipped with several segment-first features such as wet clutch with active cooling technology, machine learning, shift by wire technology, self-healing mechanism, and auto park lock. The Altroz DCA will be mated with the 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine and will be available in the top four variants – XM+, XT, XZ, and XZ+.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Rajan Amba, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Customer Care, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. said, “We are elated to launch the much-awaited ALTROZ DCA, equipped with a world-class automatic transmission, designed for the Indian customers. Since the commencement of bookings for the ALTROZ DCA, we are witnessing an encouraging number of queries. The ALTROZ DCA with its segment-first features will certainly captivate the minds of prospective buyers and provide a seamless driving experience. With more than 1.25 lakh happy customers, the Tata ALTROZ has witnessed an overwhelming response from customers and has set certain benchmarks in the segment. The addition of the ALTROZ DCA will bolster our product portfolio, help us in expanding our market share and take our success story further to set a ‘Gold Standard’ in automatics.”
The Tata Altroz DCA sports many premium features such as premium leatherette seats, auto headlamps, 7-inch touchscreen by Harman, 7-inch TFT digital cluster, rear AC vents, and iRA connected car technology among other features.
The Tata Altroz DCA gets a brand-new Opera Blue colour. In addition, the Altroz DCA will be a part of the ‘dark range’ other than being available in the Downtown Red, Arcade Grey, Avenue White and Harbour Blue exterior colour options.
Bentley Orlando has used Mulliner’s extensive capability to produce a bespoke space-themed Bentayga Speed for one of its customers. Using feature content from Mulliner’s personal commissioning guide and a number of bespoke elements, the resulting Bentayga Speed is a stunning individual example of the craftsmanship associated with Mulliner.
The exterior paint shade of Cypress is famously familiar from the launch of the first generation Continental GT in 2003. The dark metallic grey with subtle green undertones creates a dark, stone-like exterior, with visual presence increased by the use of Blackline Specification – replacing all exterior brightware with gloss black version. Orange Flame accents to the gloss carbon fibre Styling Specification take inspiration from comet dust trails racing across the night sky, and add a bright contrast to the Cypress paintwork. The combination provides a unique backdrop for the bespoke interior.
Inside the beautifully crafted cabin, the first individual feature visible when opening the doors are the illuminated treadplates depicting planets orbiting a solar system. The eye is quickly drawn to the Orange bezels surrounding the Galaxy Stone fascias set into the dashboard and mirrored on the door waistrails. The smooth bright surfaces contrast the dark grey tactile stone emphasising the highly bespoke nature of this customer commission.
The cabin is trimmed in Beluga and Porpoise, providing a dark, night-sky-esque backdrop for the accents of colour. Unique satin black speaker grilles, of the class leading ‘Naim for Bentley’ sound system, discreetly hide in the shadows, with the Naim centre badges illuminated like stars in the night. The unique and bespoke fluting in the door recesses can also be seen emanating from the bright orange Bentley seat emblem towards the outer edges of the shoulder area. Orange micro piping trails the seat edges and encircles the floor-mats.
The largest splashes of Orange can be found nearest the driver, like solar eruptions. The centre spoke of the steering wheel and gear lever are the brightest areas within the interior, both trimmed in beautiful contrast hide.
Joseph Wierda, Bentley Orlando General Manager, comments: “The Space Coast in central Florida has long been established as the world’s gateway to explore the universe above, so space travel and exploration were the perfect themes to inspire this unique car. Just as space is limitless, the opportunities for customisation with the Mulliner design team were only limited by our collective imagination.”
Bentley’s in-house bespoke and personalisation division – Mulliner – has already completed 100 unique design requests for 2022, a doubling of demand in comparison to the previous year. 2021 saw the success of the dedicated Mulliner Design team as they completed their 1000th bespoke commission since inception seven years ago. The extensive portfolio includes coachbuilt cars, Blowers, limited editions and an incredible array of individual customer projects.
The pace of growth has increased at the start of 2022, with continuing demand of individual personalisation of Bentleys across the model range.
Paul Dickinson, Head of Mulliner Commercial, comments: “The rise in popularity of our bespoke commissioning service is testament to the skills of both our Mulliner Design team and the craftspeople working tirelessly to deliver any request. Our Personal Commissioning Guide is the launch pad for so many customer journeys, and this space-themed Bentayga Speed is a stunning example of what’s possible.”
The Bentayga Speed takes the Bentayga’s extraordinary abilities to new levels, utilising the 6.0-litre W12 twin-turbocharged engine that delivers peak power of 635 PS (626 bhp). Effortless acceleration is always guaranteed thanks to 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) of torque, available as a plateau from 1,500 rpm to 5,000 rpm.
With exceptional performance, comfort and handling, maximum speed is 190 mph (306 kmph), while the 0-62 mph (0-100 kmph) sprint is delivered in 3.9 seconds.
To use this power with ease the Bentayga Speed is equipped with four on-road Drive Dynamics modes: Comfort at one extreme, Sport at the other and with Bentley mode – the balanced recommendation of Bentley’s chassis team in Crewe – alongside a Custom mode for customers who opt to create their own driving set-up.
Uniquely, the Sport mode has been calibrated to enhance response from the W12 engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission, together with the air suspension system and Bentley Dynamic Ride. The effect is a more dynamic and engaging drive.
Bentley Dynamic Ride is the world’s first electric active roll control technology that utilises an unrivalled 48V system. This system instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class-leading cabin stability, ride comfort and exceptional handling. Recalibration of Bentley’s Torque Vectoring by Brake system – whereby the car lightly brakes the inside rear wheel at corner entry to sharpen the front axle turn-in – has made Bentayga Speed even more responsive to drive.
The Bentayga Speed’s optional carbon ceramic brakes are the largest and most powerful brakes available from Bentley, with a maximum braking torque of 6,000 Nm and engineered to withstand temperatures up to 1,000 °C. They also provide a weight saving of more than 20 kg over iron brakes.
The first generation Bentayga was launched in 2016 with customer deliveries soon after. Since then, the Bentayga has defined the luxury SUV sector. Over this time Bentley has introduced three further powertains and in 2020 the second generation was revealed.
By the start of 2022 approximately 28,500 Bentaygas have now been produced. The Bentayga remains Bentley’s best-selling model, and has expanded the luxury SUV sector exactly as the Continental GT did, when launched in 2004. For the Bentayga, maybe the sky is not the limit.
For fifteen years the V12 Vantage has boldly represented Aston Martin’s passion for performance. Fast and fierce in equal measure, successive iterations of these great cars have formed an iconic bloodline. One built around the premise of fitting the most compact and driver-focussed model with the largest and most potent series production engine. With this unique lineage nearing its end, Aston Martin is proud to introduce the fastest, fiercest and most dynamically accomplished of them all; the new V12 Vantage.
With production of the V12 Vantage strictly limited to 333 examples globally, this final edition celebrates the end of an epic era in fitting style. The ultimate expression of extreme performance and driver-focussed thrills, this remarkable machine mixes blistering straight-line speed and scintillating handling with spectacular looks and enviable exclusivity: an extremely enticing proposition.
So enticing, that since V12 Vantage was confirmed in December last year, Aston Martin have seen unprecedented demand for this future icon with all examples sold ahead of release and an oversubscribed register of interest eagerly waiting in the wings.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers, said of the V12 Vantage: “Every great sportscar brand has a hero car. For Aston Martin in more recent years that car has been the V12 Vantage. Right from the moment the first V12 Vantage RS Concept was shown back in 2007 our customers and fans around the world fell in love with the idea of fitting our biggest engine into our smallest and most sporting model. The recipe has been refined over the years with great success, but the essence has remained the same. Now it is time to bring this bloodline to a close, fittingly with the most spectacular example yet – the fastest, most powerful and most dynamically capable V12 Vantage ever. A celebration of its forebears and an embodiment of Aston Martin’s intensifying focus on driving dynamics, it ensures the V12 Vantage goes out on the highest of highs”.
The engine is the heart of every Aston Martin, but never more so than in this, the fastest and most powerful Vantage ever built. Developing 700PS at 6500 rpm and 753Nm of torque from just 1800rpm to 6000rpm, the quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 offers an intoxicating combination of magnificent low and mid-range muscularity with searing top-end power. With a top speed of 200mph, V12 Vantage reaches to 0-60 in just 3.4 seconds. Thanks to the propulsive efforts of this magnificent powerplant – and extensive use of weight-saving materials throughout the car – the V12 Vantage has a power-to-weight ratio of 390PS-per-ton; an increase of more than 20 percent compared to the V8 powered Vantage.
These weight saving measures include carbon fibre front bumper, clamshell bonnet, front fenders and side sills, composite rear bumper and deck lid, lightweight battery and a special centre-mounted twin-exit exhaust system. Tuned to ensure the V12 Vantage has a voice to match its looks and performance, this new exhaust system is made from lightweight 1mm stainless-steel, saving some 7.2kg compared with the system fitted to the Vantage.
The power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear of the car. The V12 Vantage receives a unique transmission calibration to enhance shift speeds and driver interaction, with learnings taken from the V12 Speedster and Vantage F1® Edition models. This specially calibrated software delivers a level of shift refinement and usability which is beyond that seen on dual clutch gearboxes. The transmission’s adaptive software is designed to gauge the conditions the car is operating in, along with the demands the driver is making, to ensure the car is in exactly the right gear at the right time providing a truly connected driving experience.
Like its celebrated forebears the new V12 Vantage is focused on delivering a dynamic driving experience that compliments its unmistakable engine performance and character, while ensuring the driver truly remains at the centre of the driving experience. To achieve this, the car is equipped with a new adaptive damping suspension system including new anti-roll bars, bushes, and spring and damper assemblies.
Suspension spring rates have been increased by 50 percent at the front and 40 percent at the rear, combined with top mount stiffness increasing by 13 percent and new anti-roll bars are 5 percent stiffer at the front and 41 percent softer at the rear. To maintain comfort for the driver, a secondary tender spring has been introduced to the rear. The tender spring provides a lower spring rate than the main spring providing enhanced ride comfort without affecting dynamic performance.
Body stiffness is increased with additional front and rear sheer panels, a rear suspension tower strut brace and fuel tank bracing, increasing body stiffness (kNm/Deg) by 8 percent and lateral stiffness (kNm/mm) by 6.7 percent, giving the optimum platform stiffness for driving dynamics.
These changes are also supported by a new steering calibration, improving steering feel and delivering a sharper response – and in turn, an enhanced driver experience.
For stopping power that’s more than a match for its performance, the V12 Vantage features a Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB) system as standard – At the front 410mm x 38mm discs with 6-piston calipers, while at the rear 360mm x 32mm discs are paired with 4-piston calipers.
Offering increased braking performance and significant reduction in un-sprung mass, these CCB discs maintain consistent braking performance at high temperatures and have been engineered to resist brake fade at temperatures up to 800 degrees, helping the V12 Vantage unleash its full performance potential while giving the driver maximum confidence and precise control.
This CCB technology also saves 23kg of weight when compared to steel brakes. Moreover, as this mass is unsprung, the weight savings further contribute to the V12 Vantage’s ride quality and dynamic handling character.
Completing the V12 Vantage dynamic package are a choice of two new designs of 21-inch alloy wheels offered in satin black or satin black diamond turned, plus an optional lightweight option available in Satin Black, which saves a further 8kg. Further scope to complement or match the colour of the diamond turned highlights to that of the body or graphics package is available via the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service. Michelin Pilot 4S high performance tyres – 275/35 R21 front and 315/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.
Such an uncompromising pursuit of performance and driving pleasure demands an equally uncompromising aesthetic. To this end the V12 Vantage boasts a jaw-dropping physique thanks to a bodywork widened by some 40mm new to accommodate a wide track chassis optimised for cornering performance and stability. Employing extensive use of carbon fibre, this new widebody design also features a dramatic aerodynamic package.
While spectacular from any angle, it is when viewed from the front that the V12 Vantage is at its most dramatic. Perfectly complimenting a new front bumper design, a full width front splitter generates additional downforce and aerodynamic balance as well as perfecting the ground-skimming stance.
To provide increased air flow through the engine cooling radiators the front grille is 25 percent larger. In addition, a distinct ‘horse shoe’ design engine vent has been integrated into the bonnet, enhancing cooling and echoing the design character of the magnificent Vantage GT12, Aston Martin’s road-going tribute to the legendary V12 Vantage GT3 racer. The assertive design continues along the side profile with a new sculpted single-piece sill also inspired by motorsport and reminiscent of previous V12 Vantage models.
At the rear a new and unique bumper with integrated diffuser maintains aerodynamic balance from front to rear. The centre piece of this new design is the lightweight centre mounted, twin tailpipe, exhaust system. Completing this nose-to-tail transformation is a dramatic rear wing which contributes to a maximum downforce of 204kg at top speed and further enhances the V12 Vantage’s unmistakable visual impact. For a more subtle styling with a sleeker silhouette, the option to delete the rear wing is available. Yet in either configuration, extensive work to the underbody ensures aerodynamic balance is maintained, delivering high speed stability and ultimate performance.
Maximising the driving experience with the iconic V12 soundtrack, V12 Vantage comes with an open rear load space also placing the new rear suspension strut brace on display.
Moving to the interior, the V12 Vantage retains the instantly recognisable layout of the current Vantage, whilst signifying its halo positioning with a Sports Plus Seat trimmed in full semi-aniline leather featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard.
There is also a new carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment available as an option, offering a supportive seat design for those enhanced driving dynamics and a distinct design character. This is an Aston Martin patented design inspired by motorsport, optimised to save 7.3kg without compromising comfort.
Further enhancing the dramatic styling both outside and inside, every V12 Vantage can be individually tailored through the marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin. Offering a variety of unique options, customers can create a true one-of-a-kind specification.
Striking exterior graphics and liveries are available to select in a range of colourways, as well as a selection of coloured brake callipers and painted wheel finishes. In a way to make the exposed Carbon Fibre elements even more unique, the Q by Aston Martin: Commission service also offers a range of tinted lacquers, helping accentuate the craftsmanship behind the hand-laid carbon fibre panels. The tints change appearance under different lighting conditions; parked in a dark street or under faded light, they appear subtle and understated, but placed under a brighter light, the tint transforms the car with a jewel-like glisten.
Options are equally distinctive inside the car. Woven leather or Alcantara seat inserts, trim inlays and the anodised rotary dials found in the centre console can coloured in a way to match or contrast with the exterior body or graphic colour, providing a more subtle injection of colour inside the cabin. With so many design combinations available, it would not be a surprise to see no two cars the same.
Marco Mattiacci, Aston Martin Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer, adds: “At Aston Martin we build cars, but we sell dreams. That is the magic of this brand. Only a select number of customers around the world can buy the V12 Vantage, yet like all our iconic models, its significance extends far beyond its exclusivity. What’s more, such is the level of bespoke personalisation available via Q by Aston Martin even a car as rare as the V12 Vantage can be made to a specification completely unique to its owner”.
Production of the V12 Vantage – the order book for which is already closed due to unprecedented demand – is due to commence in Q1 of 2022, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q2 2022.
Mercedes-Benz India today announced an upward revision in price of its entire model range effective April 1. The imminent price correction would be in the range of 3 percent, across the entire model range. The constant increase in input costs in addition to an increase in logistics costs have been exerting significant pressure on the overall costs of the company. The rising input costs also led to a significant increase in the company’s operational costs, prompting Mercedes-Benz to revise the ex-showroom price of the entire model range in its endeavour to operate a sustainable and fundamentally strong business.
Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “At Mercedes-Benz we continue to offer the most technologically advanced products for an unmatched product experience. However, to run a sustainable business a price correction is necessary to offset the continuous rise in input and operational costs. The new price range of our vehicles will ensure the brand’s premium price positioning, enabling seamless continuation of best-in-segment ownership experiences for our discerning customers.”
Senior Nissan executive Frank Torres has been appointed Region Divisional Vice President for Business Transformation in the AMIEO region (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania) and the new President of Nissan India.
Torres, an experienced leader across multiple divisions and markets for Nissan, will be responsible for leading the brand across its operations in the country as Nissan continues to build on the success of the locally produced Magnite.
Effective April 1, he will become President of India Operations while keeping his current responsibilities overseeing Nissan’s European Regional Business Unit East (Russia) and Nissan’s Spanish Industrial Operations, reporting to Guillaume Cartier, Nissan AMIEO Chairperson.
Torres joined Nissan in Spain in 2007 as a Production Engineering Analyst, before becoming Managing Director for Nissan Motor Iberica (NMISA) in 2011. From 2016 he led Nissan Europe’s Overseas Programme Director’s Office, before becoming head of Nissan’s European RBU East in 2019, once again taking responsibilities for Spanish Industrial Operations from 2020, before becoming Region Divisional Vice President for Business Transformation and Alliance in 2021.
He replaces Sinan Özkök, who has overseen the successful launch of the Nissan Magnite in India and its export to overseas markets and has been appointed Vice President for Marketing and Sales Transformation and Managing Director for Independent Markets in the Nissan AMIEO region. In this newly created role, Özkök will report to Leon Dorssers, Senior Vice President for Marketing and Sales AMIEO and will be based in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France.
Torres said: “This is an exciting time for Nissan in the AMIEO region and for the Indian market. The launch of Magnite from our Chennai plant has given our customers in India and beyond a taste of what Nissan can offer and under our Ambition 2030 vision we are looking forward to bringing further innovation and excitement to the market.”
Atsushi Najima, currently Managing Director Nissan Philippines, is appointed Nissan India Chief Financial Officer. Atsushi will be reporting directly to Mohamed Aly, Director Control AMIO, with a dotted line to Frank Torres, Region Divisional Vice President, AMIEO Business Transformation and Alliance AMIEO, President India Operations. Atsushi will be replacing Mark Davidson who moved back to MC Americas as CFO COMPAS manufacturing plant in Mexico. Atsushi will be splitting his time between New Delhi and Chennai.
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), has announced the launch of its N Line range of merchandise, perfectly resonating fun and sporty experiences associated with the newly launched i20 N Line in India.
Commenting on the N Line Merchandise introduction, Mr. Tarun Garg, Director (Sales, Marketing & Service), Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai is known to hone the youthful and fun seeking spirit of millennials, making a conscious effort to bring out fervour in all our offerings. At a time when millennials are driving consumerism, we have yet again tried to redefine fun and exciting driving experiences for customers who love to embrace playful sportiness. We have launched the NLine range of merchandise that perfectly reflects the philosophy of our N Line cars in India.”
The N Line range of merchandise has been conceptualised and developed on the theme of “Gear for the Player” that resonates a rush of adrenaline and excitement and a feel of sportiness and fun experiences. With the i20 N Line becoming a perfect partner to play every day, the N Line range of merchandise amplifies sporty experiences to live a truly exceptional and fast paced lifestyle.
A collection of thoughtfully picked items complementing the exquisite taste of customers, Hyundai NLine Merchandise range has something for everyone. The elfin collection will be available exclusively at all Hyundai Signature Dealerships.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has announced the launch of its new Glanza. Toyota’s most affordable offering in India, the Glanza comes with additional affordable variants, advanced features, dynamic look, sporty design and low cost of maintenance, making it a strong value proposition in the segment.
The highly anticipated hatchback was launched at a virtual event today, in the presence of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) Executive Vice President of Sales & Customer Service – Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, and Mr. Atul Sood, Associate Vice President, Sales and Strategic Marketing at TKM.
On the exterior, the new Glanza boasts of a stylish Toyota signature front grill, carbon fiber elements accentuating the sporty front bumper and 16-inch sleek alloy wheels, LED projector headlamps, and LED fog lamps. The Glanza will be available in five exterior colour options- Sporting Red (New), Gaming Grey (New), Enticing Silver (New), Insta Blue, Cafe White.
The interiors of the Glanza are beautifully crafted. The car has a classy dual tone interiors with ergonomically designed wide legroom & headroom, tilt & telescopic steering, steering-mounted audio control with push start, foot well & courtesy lamps, 9-inch new smart playcast, auto EC IRVM, cruise control, rear AC vents, UV protect glass, USB rear, and auto AC – all combining to provide a comfortable and convenient ride.
Under the hood, the new Glanza features the ‘K-Series Engine’ which comes with a choice of Manual Transmission (MT) as well as an Automatic Manual Transmission (AMT). The 1197cc powertrain of the new Glanza deliver 66 KW (89 PS) of maximum power. The product will be introduced with two new affordable grades to the existing line-up – E (New), S (New), G, V.
Ensuring convenience to the contemporary customers, technologies such as the head-up display, 360-degree camera and 9-inch smart play cast, will not only allow control via a smartphone (Apple & Android) but will also ensure that the user is always in control and connected on the go.
Safety is paramount to Toyota, hence the new Glanza comes with a set of advanced safety features that include 6 airbags, ABS with EB, VSC, ISOfix, a TECT body and Hill Hold Control.
Commenting on the launch of the Toyota’s Cool New Glanza, Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, Executive Vice President – Sales & Customer Service, TKM, said, “Over these last few years the Glanza has won many hearts in India. And yet again with the Cool New Glanza,we are delighted to be recognized as a trusted brand by our customers who have started booking this new car ingood numbers.Exclusively designed by Toyota’s designers, the Cool New Glanza features Toyota’s signature styling and sportiness. We believe it is the perfect choice for those customers who are seeking a stylish, technology laden, safe and comfortable car.
The advanced connected technology used in the new Glanza is Toyota’s home-grown technology-Toyota i-Connect, which can be enabled through a smartphone or a smartwatch and is fully loaded with 45 plus features. What makes the cool new Glanza even more awesome, is the ‘Heart Touching Guest Experience’ across all our dealerships. The new Glanza takes Toyota’s commitment to quality and service to a whole new set of customers for a delightful ownership experience, thus delivering “mass happiness to all.”
Talking from the Marketing Strategy point of view for the Cool New Glanza launch, Mr. Atul Sood, AVP, Sales and Strategic Marketing, TKM, said, “At TKM, we have always focused on delivering the best products and services to our customers. In doing so, it has been our endeavour to draw more customers to the Toyota Experience, thus catering to the needs of the millennials who seek both value and style. The launch of the Cool New Glanza is an important step in that direction. It will be our goal to continue enabling more people to buy and experience a Toyota along with our renowned after-sales service which is a key differentiating factor.
We are happy to offer a unique industry experience that comes with the acclaimed global standards of Toyota service quality, provided by highly trained staff who will attend to your car with utmost care in a prompt and timely manner. Besides the range of exciting features, the new hatchback from Toyota’s stable also offers affordable cost of maintenance thus ensuring complete peace of mind,” he added.
Furthermore, the new Glanza is bundled with the renowned Toyota experience through a warranty of 3 years/100,000 kilometres and an option of extended warranty of upto 5 years/220, 000 kilometres, to further enhance customer satisfaction. Convenience of periodic service in just 60 minutes via Express Maintenance, booking service appointment through just a few clicks and peace of mind through 24x 7 roadside assistance.
It all began 75 years ago with the Maserati A6 1500, a model with a revolutionary spirit, the forerunner of a class of car that had never been seen before. It would go on to influence the automotive landscape all over the world, and successive generations of Maserati road cars.
In March 1947, the Geneva Motor Show witnessed the launch of the first Gran Turismo in history: the Tipo A6 (taking its name from the project), better known as the A6 1500 Gran Turismo.
Accorded an enthusiastic welcome by professionals and the public, the Tipo A6 represented the first step in a story in which Maserati has revamped the technology and design. The brand has held true to its hallmarks of elegance and high performance, ubiquitous in every model in the range and continuing in the next generation of the GranTurismo, the Trident brand’s first 100% electric car, due to be launched onto the market in 2023.
The history of the A6 1500 dates back to even earlier than 1947.
It actually goes all the way back to 1941 and the design of a sedan with a fixed head engine and twin camshaft, which had to be a close descendant of the 6CM’s, if of course revisited with Gran Turismo in mind. The upshot was an outstanding engine with a maximum output of 65 hp, with its single Weber 36DCR carburettor giving the car a top speed of 150 km/h.
The project was named A6, A for ‘Alfieri’, 6 for the number of cylinders.
It also featured independent wheel front suspension, with oscillating trapeziums and coil springs, rigid beam with leaf springs in the rear, hydraulically controlled brakes and disc wheels (spoked on request), with a 3.5” channel, 16” in diameter, and 5.50-16 tyres.
Intended for the Geneva Motor Show, the first model was produced in February 1947 by the Pininfarina bodyshop, bearing its characteristic mechanically operated retractable inside headlights. However, the clearest innovation from the past was its tubular chassis with circular cross-section components, to adopt some of the most fashionable trends at the time.
Not only was it the retractable headlights and chassis that would attract the attention of the public in Geneva, but also the plexiglass sunroof and a bonnet that could be raised from both sides or removed.
Resounding compliments and awards quickly led to the decision to give the green light to production, albeit with certain changes from the prototype. These included the restoration of more conventional lights, framed in chrome plating. The Extra Lusso version also featured a new, more modern grille and larger side windows.
Production of the A6 1500 Gran Turismo continued until 1950, with a cosmetic update taking place in 1948. Pininfarina would also make further changes to the bodywork: the embossed trim was removed from the front fenders, and two rear seats were added to the cabin.
Despite the relatively limited number of units produced, 58 over its 4 years, the A6 1500 was a milestone in Maserati history. At that point, the brand began to establish itself as a producer of tailor-made, high-quality road cars, with sport in its DNA. The glorious Pininfarina-designed bodywork would then go on to inspire successive generations of Maserati cars: a high-class, timeless design that continues to resound to this day in the current range, and will take the brand forward into the future. While the A6 1500 represented the beginning of the Maserati epic of road cars, like passing the baton, the new GranTurismo will mark the brand’s entry into the world of Full-Electric with Folgore, and will light the fuse of a new, innovative energy.
Power Drive 