The new BMW X4 has been launched in India today. BMW has refreshed the Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) with striking design elements, added equipment and attractive features.

Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the new BMW X4 will be available in diesel and petrol variants at all BMW dealerships across India from today onwards.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X4 popularised the distinctive Sports Activity Coupe concept in India. It instantly became the vehicle of choice for customers who have a unique style that stands out from rest of the crowd. At the same time, they desire the luxury and performance similar to a sports activity vehicle. And this is the USP of BMW X4! The way it fuses Sheer Driving Pleasure with head-turning looks and sporty adventure is inimitable. Now the new BMW X4 is ready to continue this status in its segment with a refreshed exterior and an attractive profile with multiple technology features. Its forever bold persona will make a statement that’s impossible to forget.”

The new BMW X4 is available in an exclusive ‘Black Shadow’ edition in limited numbers only. Designed with a focus on dynamics, it’s tailored to suit the needs of motorsport enthusiasts.

The car has been launched in a diesel and petrol variant at the following ex-showroom prices –

BMW X4 xDrive30i – INR 70,50,000

BMW X4 xDrive30d – INR 72,50,000

The new BMW X4 is available in Black Sapphire and M Brooklyn Grey metallic paintworks. They are paired with Leather Vernasca upholstery with ‘Black’ decor stitching. M interior trim Aluminum Rhombicledark with highlight trim finisher in Pearl Chrome is standard.

The distinctive sports activity coupe design of the new BMW X4 is a guaranteed head turner. The significantly redesigned exterior reinforces the off-road look and sportiness. The new front is immediately noticeable with its striking BMW kidney grille, thin headlights and redesigned front apron.

The distinctive BMW mesh kidney grille has all-black mesh-inserts and frame finished in ‘M High Gloss Shadow line’. Adaptive LED Headlamps are now 10mm slimmer and flatter, creating a more focused face. They are designed in M Shadow line with black accents and have Matrix function as standard. Moving below, the newly designed front apron conveys power through the M Aerodynamic package which features components in body color in front / rear apron and side sill covers. Vertical air intakes and bumper inserts in dark shadow metallic add further boldness.

The side profile is tremendously athletic and sporty. A visual black frame is created around the coupe-style windows with M High Gloss Shadow line. It extends from window recess cover, along the guide rail, mid pillars, to the base of the side-view mirrors and finally the roof rail. 20” light M alloy wheels double spoke and M Sport Brakes with red callipers display track readiness.

The rear is tidier with increased painted surface and bumper in M Aerodynamic package. The bumper is done up in dark shadow metallic color with new anvil-shaped inlays in high gloss black and vertically arranged reflectors. The enormous width of the car is emphasized through two-part wrap-around LED rear taillights, a large automatic tailgate and wide free-form tailpipe in black color.

The interior boasts an exceptional level of comfort and functionality in a new sporty ambience. Together with an elevated seat position and generous proportions, it ensures first-class comfort. The interior has clearly structured surfaces and an ergonomically impeccable cockpit design that ensures the driver’s focus remains one hundred per cent on the intense driving experience. Driver and front passenger enjoy the superior flair of a premium SAC with Sports Seats which impress with numerous electrical adjustment options and memory function. Rear passengers can tilt the seats backwards by up to 9˚ for added comfort. The modern design of the centre console, instrument panel in Sensatec, usage of M headliner anthracite and galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. M leather steering wheel with ‘Walknappa’ black with black stitching and M logo spells exclusivity.

A relaxed and harmonious lounge atmosphere is created thanks to a large electrically operated Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six selectable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Features such as electroplated controls and 3-zone automatic climate control with extended options add to the overall luxurious feel. The boot has a capacity of 525 litres and can be expanded further to 1,430 litres by folding down the 40/20/40 split rear seat backrest.

The innovative petrol and diesel engines from the BMW EfficientDynamics family offer considerably more spirited power delivery as well as spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. Thanks to their unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, they meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency. The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW X4 xDrive30d produces an output of 265 hp and a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 2,000 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 5.8 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of BMW X4 xDrive30i produces an output of 252 hp and maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,450 –4,800 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.6 seconds.

The 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gear shifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is available with steering wheel paddle shifters.

BMW xDrive, an intelligent all-wheel-drive system monitors the driving situation constantly and is quick to respond. The compact, low-weight and efficient all-wheel-drive system distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear axle exactly to suit the driving situation and the surface. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks (ADB-X)’, extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)’, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain. Adaptive Suspension makes it possible to adjust the damper characteristics to suit any given driving situation, increasing comfort and driving dynamics.

BMW EfficientDynamics doubles ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ with features such as Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, driver is able to choose between different driving modes (ECOPRO, COMFORT, SPORT/ SPORT+) to suit diverse driving conditions.

The new BMW X4 features cutting-edge safety technologies. It provides optimal support in any situation with six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. The modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 12.3-inch Control Display and BMW Head-up Display. The occupants can operate a number of car functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 16 speakers conjures an engrossing treat for the ears.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways.

India’s leading luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz, has launched the ultimate global symbol of automotive excellence and motoring luxury, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in India. The pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship by Mercedes-Benz, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines the perfection and high-tech solutions of the New S-Class with the exclusivity and tradition of the Maybach.

Reiterating the brand’s global focus on offering the most desirable products for the Indian customers, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class was launched in India by Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India and Santosh Iyer, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India. With this, the ‘Made in India’ Mercedes-Maybach S 580 also becomes the most technologically advanced and exclusive vehicle ever, to roll-out of Mercedes-Benz India’s world-class production facility in Pune.

Martin Schwenk commented, “The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class surpasses the pinnacle of excellence with its fine blend of luxury, technology and bespoke character. It is the new definition of luxury for the ever evolving S-Class customers, who are young achievers in their respective fields and expect the best of luxury products and services. In addition to the traditional attributes of luxury, comfort and exclusivity, these customers prefer the S-Class Maybach over other products for its highly intuitive and cutting-edge technology. The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is a unique combination of luxury and technology, and we are confident it will exceed customer’s expectations. The launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class underlines our focus on introducing the most desirable products for our Indian customers and exceed the luxury offering introduced by the new S-Class.”

“The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the most advanced and exquisite product we have made in India till date, and it underlines our focus on the growing demand for high-end segment in our portfolio. This limousine demands the ultimate perfection in automotive workmanship along with the most technologically advanced integration introduced with the new S-Class. Therefore, it is a moment of pride for us to roll out the S580 4MATIC version from our manufacturing facility today. It reiterates the implementation of advanced technology and flexible processes in our manufacturing process.” added Mr. Schwenk.

Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille. This is highly recognisable by its vertical, three-dimensional trim strips. The word mark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille. The equally distinctive bumper further emphasises the vehicle’s width with the shape of its air inlets. The side view is characterised by flush-fitted door handles and 19-inch wheels specially designed for this model. The LED ambient lighting in the exterior mirrors, projects the brand logo next to the opened front doors.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has a wheelbase that is 18 cm longer than that of the long variant of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, integrated entirely to curate benefits for the rear compartment. The rear has been extensively upgraded to provide the ultimate luxurious experience. New comfort features include the massage function of the calf-rests on the Executive seats and neck/shoulder heating in the rear. Additionally, the globally celebrated Adaptive Rear Lighting (interior lights) is making its India premiere, with the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. This feature provides the occupant the freedom to completely control the ambient lighting such as, adjusting the brightness, the size, and position of the light spot along with the light colour-warm/cold. There is also a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light available.

The new luxury saloon further enhances the excellent NVH (noise, vibrations, harshness) performance of the car. The extended NVH measures mainly benefit the rear section. Additional absorbent foam is installed in the area of the rear wheel arches. Like the rear door windows, the additional, fixed quarter lights in the C-pillars feature thicker laminated glass, as they are close to the heads of rear passengers. Noise-optimized tyres with foam absorbers are available.

With active road noise cancellation, the interior of the already very quiet Mercedes-Maybach S-Class becomes even more hushed. In a similar way to headphones with noise suppression, the system reduces unwanted low-frequency noises using counter-phased sound waves. To reduce engine noises in the interior, the S 580 4MATIC features engine order cancellation (EOC). This means that the rpm of the engine is used as an input variable to generate counterwaves in the partial load range. The sound is emitted via the speakers of the Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system.

The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors. With this feature, the doors open and close with no effort at all. Its integration into the infotainment and control system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and Active Blind Spot Assist, ensures ease of use and additional safety. The rear doors can also be operated from the driver’s seat – an important function when chauffeur-driven. In combination with the MBUX Interior Assistant in the rear, the comfort doors can be closed by a gesture of the hand and stopped by extending an arm.

On request, the exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S680 4MATIC can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish with dividing line. This is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria. Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille with fine & vertical chrome pinstripes. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class also differs from its sister models when viewed from the side as it features a fixed quarter light in the C-pillar. Exclusivity is emphasised by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar and the gas & brake pedals.

NTG7 MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) provides brilliant displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, making it even easier to control vehicle and comfort functions. The visual highlight in the interior is the large central display in portrait format. It is ergonomically well positioned, as the screen is within easy sight and reach between the driver and front passenger. The portrait format also allows longer lists to be displayed. The central display features OLED technology as standard. OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode. Compared to LCD screens, the advantages of this technology are a better black level, even stronger contrasts and a lower energy consumption.

Additionally, the MBUX Interior voice assistant “Hey Mercedes” can be controlled from the rear seats. Elegant elements such as rose gold dials in the instrument cluster accentuate the premier appeal.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is equipped with MBUX Interior Assist. MBUX Interior Assist recognizes numerous occupant intentions. It recognizes eye direction, hand gestures, and the body language of the occupants, to assist with automatic vehicle functions as the situation requires. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is also able to recognise movements and gestures by the rear occupants with the help of 3D laser cameras in the roof liner. Its intelligent functionality detects, for example, the height of passengers in the rear and makes adjustments to the rear head restraints. In addition, the seat belt extender for the outer rear seats automatically offers up the belt when MBUX Interior Assist recognizes the occupant’s intention to reach for the belt by hand movements.

The interior assistance reacts to certain movements, for example, if the rear passenger reaches into a defined area of the interior in darkness, a multi-spotlight is automatically switched on. The exit warning function has also been extended and is able to register that a rear passenger intends to leave the vehicle.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is available with a choice of two engine variants: the S 580 4MATIC is powered by an eight-cylinder petrol engine with an integrated second-generation starter-alternator (ISG) and 48-volt onboard electrical system. The S580 4MATIC engine generates an output of 370Kw (503 hp), with a displacement of 3982 cc and maximum torque of 700 Nm. It completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.8 seconds, while the top speed is 250 kmph (electronically limited).

The Mercedes-Maybach S680 4MATIC features the familiar V12, for the first time combined with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. It generates an output of 370 Kw (503 hp), with a displacement of 5980 cc and maximum torque of 900 Nm. It completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is 250 kmph (electronically limited). Both the engines are equipped with GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) and are future-ready to comply with the stringent emission norms.

Evasive Steering Assist can assist the driver when seeking to avoid another road user detected by the system in a critical situation. In the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the system not only recognises stationary and crossing pedestrians, but now also takes account of pedestrians and vehicles travelling longitudinally, as well as cyclists. The speed range has been increased to 108 kmph (instead of 72 kmph), and assistance is also given on long-distance routes.

Active Brake Assist uses the onboard sensors to register whether there is a risk of collision with vehicles travelling ahead, crossing or oncoming. The system can give the driver a visual and acoustic warning if a collision appears imminent. If the driver’s braking response is too weak, the system can also assist by increasing the brake pressure as the situation demands, and also initiate autonomous emergency braking if the driver fails to respond. New functions include the turn-off function (e.g. crossing pedestrians when turning off), extension of the cross-traffic function to long‑distance routes (up to 120 kmph instead of 72 kmph) and warning/braking for oncoming traffic.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes enhanced with extended MBUX Functions such as native speech recognition, personalization in lighting, temperature etc.
The URBAN GUARD Plus vehicle protection offers all-round monitoring of the vehicle’s environment. Equipped with break-in & theft alarm system, emergency key deactivation, vehicle theft assistance service, the car remains secure. It also detects on-road collision and notifies the passenger via the app.

The Car-to-X Technology captures potholes, speed bumps, slippery road, heavy rain, fog conditions, vehicle accidents and also allows general warning manual triggers for road safety hazards – notifying all other connected Mercedes-Benz cars of hazards in the vicinity. Notified via Mercedes-Benz cloud on the navigation system – the notifications are done both – visually as well as with audio alerts in case a vehicle is approaching in higher speeds. All this, in real time within seconds with cloud based Mercedes me connect technology.

Rear Seat Entertainment System provides on-the-go content via two high-resolution, fully integrated 11.6 inch displays to play OTT content. The Burmester ® 4D with 30 high-end speakers and a combined output of 1750 Watt along with 8 exciters in the seat completely envelope the cabin with music.

Digital Light technology had its India debut with the new generation S-Class. DIGITAL LIGHT comes equipped with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle

A personal profile can be created directly in the S-Class and synchronised with the existing profile data of the Mercedes me account. By scanning a QR code with the Mercedes me App, the vehicle is automatically paired to the Mercedes me account.

Personal preferences such as a favourite radio station and preselected settings can be transferred to any seat via the personal Mercedes me profile. Up to seven different profiles with around 600 parameters are possible in the vehicle. The ambient lighting can be individually set by remote configuration, e.g. from home. As the profiles are now stored in the Cloud as part of Mercedes me, they can also be used in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the new MBUX generation.

Alongside the classic entry of a PIN, a new authentication method ensures a high level of security. Fingerprint, and voice recognition are combined. This allows access to individual settings or verification of digital payment processes from the vehicle.

The ENERGIZING COACH even suggests an appropriate vitalisation or wellness programme based on vehicle and trip data. It also factors the information about sleep quality and stress level into its intelligent algorithm if the driver has a suitable wearable.

Rear passengers in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are now the first to benefit from this convenience in the rear of the saloon. The seat belt extender is an indirect invitation to fasten the belt as it makes the process much easier. It is no longer necessary to move from an adopted, comfortable seating position to fasten the belt. The seat belt extender is integrated into the adjustable backrest of the Executive seat, and therefore always in the right position for the passenger.

During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag included as standard can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seat belt wearing occupants on the outer rear seats. The frontal airbag for the rear seat deploys particularly gently, thanks to its innovative construction using a tubular structure.

With the rear-axle steering (optional equipment), the Mercedes-Maybach S680 4M is easy to maneuver, even in dense Indian city traffic. The steering angle at the rear axle is up to ten degrees. It reduces the turning circle of the S-Class by up to two metres. Exceptional ride comfort and agility is provided by the standard AIRMATIC air suspension.

MG Motor India today announced the launch of its all-new ZS EV. The all-new ZS EV comes with the largest in-segment 50.3 kWh battery with advanced technology, offering a 461 kilometres certified range in a single charge.

The all-new ZS EV will be available in two variants (Excite and Exclusive), priced at INR 21,99,800 and INR 25,88,000, respectively. While the bookings for exclusive variant starts now, bookings for excite variant will start from July 2022.

The all-new ZS EV has been restyled with striking exterior design elements, comfortable and premium interior, first-in-segment features like Dual Pane Panoramic Skyroof, Digital Bluetooth Key, Rear Drive Assist, 360° Camera, i-SMART with 75+ Connected Car features, Hill Descent Control and much more. It also packs a globally certified (ASIL-D, IP69K and UL2580) battery that has passed eight special safety tests, including fire, collision, dust, smoke, etc.

Speaking on the launch, Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India said, “The demand for ZS EV has been encouraging since its launch, and the all-new ZS EV will further strengthen the brand connect with our EV customers. ZS EV has been a global success in key markets, including the UK, Europe and Australia. Committed to the future of electric mobility in India, we ensure a superior ownership experience by building a robust & sustainable EV ecosystem. With the all-new ZS EV, we are confident to change the mindset and accelerate EV adoption in India.”

The all-new ZS EV adopts MG’s signature global design cues and features a new electric design grill and 17-inch tomahawk hub design alloy wheels, offering superior aerodynamics while giving it a modern look. The Full LED Hawkeye headlamp and new LED tail lamps gives a fresh look and eye-catching design, making a powerful impression.

Customer comfort is at the core of the all-new ZS EV. Its advanced features and styling offer a luxurious, comfortable and convenient in-cabin experience to the customers with luxury and refined elegance. The premium leather-layered dashboard, the centre armrest and a dual-pane panoramic sky roof can immediately grab eyeballs in the renewed and modernised interior. The all-new ZS EV also enhances the comfort of rear-seat passengers who can now enjoy extraordinary comfort on every trip with the newly added rear centre headrest, rear centre armrest with cup holders and rear AC vents.

While the current ZS EV already has a relatively long list of innovative features, the all-new ZS EV builds upon it. It comes with a full digital cluster with a 17.78 cm (7-inch ) embedded LCD screen, a 10.1-inch HD touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, 5 USB Ports including 2 Type C charging ports, climate control through auto AC, and PM 2.5 Filter. It also includes an advanced i-SMART connectivity system with 75+ features to make the ride smart. The all-new ZS EV even features a Digital Bluetooth key that allows customers to drive without a physical key in select cases.

The all-new ZS EV ensures the utmost safety with 6 airbags, a 360-degree camera and hill descent control along with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and electronic stability control (ESC) for a smoother and controlled drive. The all-new ZS EV offers Rear Drive Assist features that enhance driver and passenger safety. These include Blind Spot Detection (BSD), which helps identify vehicles coming from a blind zone that are not detected by the outside rear view mirror. It also features Lane Change Assist (LCA), which warns the driver about possible collision hazards the moment the indicator is turned on. Finally, it offers a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) that detects cars that might be approaching from the rear left or right but are outside the range of the reverse camera and rear parking sensors.

The all-new ZS EV will now come with the largest in-segment 50.3kWH advanced technology battery that meets the best global safety standards (IP69K & ASIL-D). It is equipped with a new powerful motor that delivers the best-in-class power of 176PS and accelerates from 0 to 100 in just 8.5 seconds. Further, the battery has undergone eight special safety checks and received UL2580 global certification.

MG Motor is taking conscious steps towards strengthening the EV infrastructure in India. The brand has recently launched ‘MG Charge’, where 1,000 AC fast chargers will be installed at residential localities across India. In the past, MG has also partnered with companies like Fortum, Delta, eChargeBays, Exicom, Electreefi and Tata Power to introduce DC and AC fast chargers across the country.

The car is available in four exterior colour variants: Ferris White, Currant Red, Ashen Silver and Sable Black.

The all-new ZS EV is covered under MG eShield for private customers, wherein the automaker provides a free-of-charge 5-year warranty for unlimited kilometres, 8yrs / 1.5 lac KM warranty on the Battery Pack system, round-the-clock Roadside Assistance (RSA) for 5 years, and 5 Labour-free Services.

Kia India has announced the launch of its fourth and latest ‘Made-for-India’ offering, the three-row recreational vehicle, Carens with prices starting at INR 8.99 Lakhs (ex-showroom, pan-India).

The Kia Carens is available in five trim levels: Premium, Prestige, Prestige Plus, Luxury, and Luxury Plus. The vehicle comes in 7-seater configurations from Premium to Luxury trims, with the Luxury Plus trim offering both 6- and 7-seater configurations.

The Kia Carens is offered with three engine options: Smartstream 1.5 Petrol, Smartstream 1.4 T-GDi Petrol, and 1.5 CRDi VGT Diesel, mated with three transmissions – 6MT, 7DCT, or 6AT.

During an exclusive media drive event held in the national capital, we got an opportunity to spend some quality time with the Kia Carens. Read on to find out about everything you want to know about the Carens.

Design and Engineering

For the first time, the Carens’ styling introduces the “Opposites United” design language to India. The two main pillars on which Carens’ exterior development was based were futuristic and bold design. It is the result of a collaboration between the Kia Design Centre in Namyang, South Korea, and the Indian design team.

Key highlights of the exterior features Kia signature tiger face with digital front grille, star map LED DRLs with crown jewel LED headlamps, star map LED tail lamps, sky light sunroof, R16 – 40.62 cm (16-inch) dual tone crystal cut alloy wheels and chrome rear bumper garnish with diamond knurling pattern.

Kia Carens is available in eight colour options with three all-new colours – Imperial Blue (New Colour), Moss Brown (New Colour), Sparkling Silver (New Colour), Intense Red, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Grey, Glacier White Pearl and Clear White.

Interior and Comfort

The Carens interior is sophisticated and plush, wrapped around a high-tech dashboard specifically created to appeal to the always-connected consumer. The car’s interior has many storage spaces throughout the cabin, and the first-row seats are ventilated, adding to the car’s convenience factor. The Carens packaging is one of the most important factors to consider and offers adequate room for adults in the third row, thanks to the longest wheelbase in its class.

Key highlights of interior are 2nd row one-touch easy electric tumble seat, Bose premium sound system with eight speakers, smart pure air purifier with virus and bacteria protection, Kia Connect next gen connected car technology, ventilated front seats, 31.7 cm (12.5-inch) full segment LCD cluster with advanced 10.6 cm (4.2-inch) colour TFT multi-information display, cabin surround 64 colour ambient mood lighting and smartphone wireless charger with cooling function.

Powertrain and Transmission

Kia Carens offers a surprisingly wide range of powertrain choices in its class with three engine options – Smartstream 1.5 Petrol, Smartstream 1.4 T-GDi Petrol and 1.5 CRDi VGT Diesel. These are mated to three transmission options – 6-speed manual, an intuitive 7-speed DCT and 6-speed automatic. Additionally, automatic variants of the Carens offer multi-drive modes for added convenience and driver-confidence.

Ride and Handling

The Carens is supported at the front by McPherson struts and the rear by a coupled torsion beam axle setup. With disc brakes all around and across the board, the ride quality has been tuned to absorb everything in its path, providing a compliant ride quality and high comfort. Despite its external dimensions, the handling and maneuvering is nibble and the throttle response is both prompt and precise. Body roll is well contained and ground traction is impressive for its size.

Safety

The Kia Carens is a true family car, offering several active safety features. The model comes with Robust 10 Hi-Secure Safety Standard Package, a first in India. Included as standard across all trims of the Carens are 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill-Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist System (BAS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Rear Parking Sensors, Highline TPMS and All-Wheel Disc Brakes.

While the ESC protects the car from the loss of traction, HAC and DBC let drivers confidently drive on uphill and downhill roads. Additionally, the VSM ensures occupant safety by offering stability to the car when the driver must perform sudden braking and turns.

Continuing this focus on safety, the Company has also offered Front-Parking Sensors, Highline TPMS, and Rain-Sensing Wipers with the car, giving utmost confidence to the driver at all times and allowing them to fully focus on road conditions ahead.

Kia Connect

With Carens, the connected car platform gets a complete revamp with the next-generation Kia Connect app, which replaces the previous UVO system. Kia Connect now hosts updated and exciting features with added safety and convenience. One of the major updates with Kia Connect is the enhancement of OTA (Over the Air) Map and System Updates, which is now capable of updating software without visiting the Kia workshop. The Carens will come equipped with 66 connected car features and what is more exciting is that the AVNT of the vehicle now supports ten native languages.

Verdict

Kia Carens is a brilliantly packaged product suitable for slightly bigger Indian families who wish to travel together. The Carens is offered in as many as 19 variants with prices ranging from INR 8.99 to 16.99 lakhs – very aggressive pricing strategy by Kia, plus the wide range of variants will allow Kia to cater to an even more diverse set of customers.

In addition to the exciting pricing, the Carens also offers maintenance cost as low as 37 paisa per kilometre. The company continues to personalise the vehicle servicing process for its customers and offer a competitive maintenance cost for all its models in the country. The design is appealing, the interior is practical and spacious, the ride and handling is very comfortable and nimble – all of which makes this a great value proposition.

The Carens also offers a robust safety package which includes 6 airbags, DBC, VSM, HAC, ESC and All-Wheel Disc Brakes, to name a few, comes standard on all five trim levels, making the Kia Carens one of the safest family movers. With the Carens, Kia has produced a winner which is capable to rival the best in the segment.

Kia Carens Pan India Ex-Showroom Prices in INR:

Trim	Engine	Transmission	Pan India (Ex-Showroom Prices in Lakhs)
Premium	Smartstream1.5 Petrol	6 MT	8.99
Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	10.99
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	10.99
Prestige	Smartstream1.5 Petrol	6 MT	9.99
Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	11.99
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	11.99
Prestige Plus	Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	13.49
7 DCT	14.59
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	13.49
Luxury	Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	14.99
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	14.99
Luxury Plus (6 Seater)	Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	16.19
7 DCT	16.99
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	16.19
6 AT	16.99
Luxury Plus (7 Seater)	Smartstream1.4 T-GDi Petrol	6 MT	16.19
7 DCT	16.99
1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel	6 MT	16.19
6 AT	16.99

Volvo Cars is integrating and testing a new wireless charging technology in a live city environment together with selected partners, evaluating its potential for future electric cars.

Over a three-year period, a small fleet of fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge cars will be used as taxis by Cabonline, the largest taxi operator in the Nordic region, and charged wirelessly at stations in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The wireless charging test is one of many projects outlined within the strategic initiative Gothenburg Green City Zone, under which designated areas within the city are used as live test beds for the development of sustainable technologies.

“Gothenburg Green City Zone lets us try exciting new technologies in a real environment and evaluate them over time for a potential future broader introduction,” said Mats Moberg, Head of Research and Development at Volvo Cars. “Testing new charging technologies together with selected partners is a good way to evaluate alternative charging options for our future cars.”

The charging stations used in the test are delivered by Momentum Dynamics, a leading provider of wireless electric charging systems. The charging starts automatically when a compatible vehicle parks over a charging pad embedded in the street, allowing drivers to conveniently charge without getting out of their car.

The charging station sends energy through the charging pad, which is picked up by a receiver unit in the car. To easily align the car with the charging pad, Volvo Cars will use its 360-degree camera system. For the fully electric XC40 Recharge cars, the wireless charging power will be more than 40kW, making the charging speeds around four times faster than a wired 11kW AC charger and almost as fast as a wired 50kW DC fast charger.

In total, the Volvo cars will be used for more than 12 hours a day and drive 100,000km per year, which also makes this the first durability test of fully electric Volvo cars in a commercial usage scenario.

Other partners involved in the wireless charging project include the company’s own Swedish retailers Volvo Bil and Volvo Car Sörred, Swedish energy company Vattenfall and its charging network InCharge, the city energy company Göteborg Energi, and Business Region Gothenburg, a municipal economic development agency owned by the City of Gothenburg.

Last year, Volvo Cars took part in launching the Gothenburg Green City Zone initiative, which aims to achieve emission-free transport by 2030. Using a real city as a testing ground will enable the company to accelerate development of technologies and services in the areas of electrification, shared mobility, autonomous driving, connectivity and safety.

Setting a new milestone in its India presence, BMW Group Plant Chennai has rolled out the 1,00,000th car locally produced in the country. A BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition has received this special badge.

Mr. Thomas Dose, Managing Director, BMW Group Plant Chennai said, “It is a day of great joy and pride for us as the 1,00,000th ‘Made-in-India’ car drives out of our assembly lines. This accomplishment is a result of the team’s hard work, efficiency and consistency which ensures that every BMW or MINI car locally produced here in Chennai is of the same international quality standards as any other BMW plant across the world. Highly skilled employees, advanced manufacturing processes along with state-of-the-art technology and a strong focus on sustainability provided the necessary ingredients for this success. At the same time, increased localisation of up to 50 per cent and a robust collaboration with local supplier partners has created more value for everyone in the ecosystem. BMW Group Plant Chennai looks forward to raising the bar in sustainable manufacturing excellence further as the India story grows.”

BMW Group Plant Chennai started operations on March 29, 2007 and is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. The BMW Group has continuously increased the number of its locally produced car models. Currently, 13 models are locally produced – BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BMW 3 Series, BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine, BMW M340i, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo, BMW 7 Series, BMW X1, BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5, BMW X7 and MINI Countryman. Making sustainability a top priority, the plant runs on 100% green electricity. The total number of employees at BMW Group India is over 650.

Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled a strategic roadmap to accelerate its electrification ambition as it pursues sustainable progress for the company. President and CEO Jaehoon Chang and other executives presented the plans to shareholders and investors, and other various stakeholders at the ‘2022 CEO Investor Day’ virtual forum. The company also unveiled targets for sales and financial performance to be achieved by 2030.

The roadmap for Hyundai’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) is supported by: strengthening BEV line-ups, optimizing manufacturing capacity, and securing hardware and software competitiveness. Under the plan, the company aims to boost annual global BEV sales to 1.87 million units and secure a 7 percent level of global market share by 2030. Hyundai also presented its mid-to long-term financial goals. The company earmarked KRW 95.5 trillion of investment for future businesses by 2030, including KRW 19.4 trillion for electrification and KRW 12 trillion for software capabilities.

By 2030, Hyundai also targets to achieve an operating profit margin of 10 percent or higher in EV businesses by enhancing competitiveness in hardware and software capabilities with an expanded line-up. On a consolidated basis, it aims to secure an operating profit margin of 10 percent.

“Hyundai is successfully accelerating its transition to electrification and becoming a global leader in EVs despite a challenging business environment caused by the global chip shortage and ongoing pandemic,” said President Chang. “Along with our seamless efforts to improve EV value, Hyundai Motor will continue to secure its business sustainability as a ‘Mobility Solutions Provider’ through advanced technologies of not only hardware but also software.”

Strengthening BEV line-ups

Hyundai Motor raised the annual BEV sales target to 1.87 million units by 2030 from previously announced 560,000 units by 2025. The company aims to take 7 percent market share in the overall global BEV market.

Hyundai plans to introduce 17 BEV models;11 Hyundai marque models along with six models from Genesisluxury brand by 2030 as it seeks to expand BEV spectrum.

The new Hyundai BEV models will include three sedan models, six SUVs, one light commercial vehicle as well as one new type model. This year, Hyundai begin sales of IONIQ 6, followed byIONIQ 7 in 2024. Genesis luxury brand, the BEV line-up consists of two passenger cars and four SUVs, including the Electrified GV70 launching this year.Starting in 2025,all newly launched models from Genesis will be electrified.

Optimizing EV Manufacturing Capacity

Hyundai Motor aims to establish a high efficiency manufacturing process for BEV production to accelerate its transition into electrification. Hyundai Motor Global Innovation Center in Singapore (HMGICS), the cornerstone for innovation in the company’s mobility value chain, will build a human-centered manufacturing innovation platform. The platform is expected to bring dramatic innovation in production efficiency through a flexible production system, advanced level automation and digital twin technology. The innovation will be expanded to global plants in the future.

Beyond existing BEV production facilities centered in Korea and the Czech Republic, Hyundai plans to gradually expand its BEV manufacturing bases, starting with an Indonesian plant that recently started operation. The Indonesian plant will start BEV production this year to help expand production volume.

As BEV production bases expand, the company is trying to increase the local procurement rate of batteries through strategic alliances with battery companies in major regions, including the U.S., to secure sufficient battery supply. Through these alliances, the company expects to obtain more than 50 percent of its next-generation lithium batteries for BEVs starting in 2025.

In addition, Hyundai will also diversify battery sourcing to consolidate the competitiveness of future BEVs. The company has secured sufficient battery supplyto meet its sales targets by 2023. Hyundai plans to continue cooperation with various battery companies with an aim of securing 170GWh of batteries for its models, including Genesis luxury brand by 2030.

Regarding the next-generation batteries, such as solid-state battery, Hyundai is cooperating with various global partners to improve energy density and cost efficiency.

Securing Hardware and Software Competitiveness

Hyundai Motor plans to introduce an Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA),evolved fromthe electric global modular platform (E-GMP)that is the foundation of IONIQ 5 and GV60, successfully launched in 2021.The IMA will beutilized not only to as Hyundai Motor’spassenger BEV platformbut also as its exclusive purpose-built vehicle (PBV) platform,helping to streamline production processes and reduce cost.

The IMA is being developed to standardize not only a chassis but also battery system and motor. The innovative architecture can be used for BEV modelsin all segments, improving driving range.

Unlike the existing BEV development system, which has different types of battery packs for each model, IMA can be equipped with standardized battery packs to attach flexibly regardless of the model to improve cost efficiency. Through the cell-to-pack system, the new architecture can secure sufficient energy density and shorten charging time.

Standardized five type of motors also will be installed on IMA according to model needs. This modular motor system can secure competitiveness in terms of cost and weight as well as motor efficiency.

Hyundai Motor will also strive to develop software architectures to provide a satisfyingownership experience for customers. The company plans to apply an over-the-air (OTA) update to new models that will be launched starting at the end of 2022, and expand it to all Hyundai models by 2025. In addition,the number of integrated control units can be reducedby one-third by 2030.

In terms of autonomous driving technology, the Highway Driving Pilot (HDP), a Level 3 autonomous driving function, will be applied to Genesis G90 starting in the second half of this year. The Motional, the autonomous driving joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and Aptiv, plans to expand the service area of an IONIQ 5-based robotaxifollowing its commercial service commencement in 2023 and start self-driving delivery services this year through partnerships with Uber Eats.

Hyundai will achieve software transformation by expanding the business areas of mobility, connectivity and other services based on data,and enhancing software competitiveness. To do so, the company will establish specialized centers of excellence for software developmentin Korea and abroad.

By 2030, the company will invest a total of KRW 12 trillion to boost competitiveness in software capabilities, including KRW 4.3 trillion ontechnology development,such as connectivity and autonomous driving, KRW 4.8 trillion on strategic investment for startups and research institutions, and KRW 2.9 trillion on information and communications technology (ICT). After 2030, the company targets the revenue from software-related businesses to take approximately 30 percent of total sales.

Financial Targets

Hyundai also disclosed mid- to long-term financial goalsrunning through 2030, including an investment of KRW 95.5 trillion. Out of the total investment, KRW 39.1 trillion will be allocated for research and development, and KRW 43.6 trillion for capital expenditures to enhance business competitiveness, while KRW 12.8 trillion will be dedicated to strategic investment.

The KRW 95.5-trillion expenditure plan includes KRW 19.4 trillion for investment into electrification field to expand EV production capability, build charging stations and engage in strategic technology alliances.

By 2030, Hyundai aims to achieve a target of an operating profit margin of 10 percent or higher in EVs by increasing sales volume and innovating cost structure. Strengthened EV line up, development of efficient next-generation batteries as well as IMA will help the company to meet its financial goals.On a consolidated basis, the company set a goal of an operating margin of 10 percent.

As the company shared early in this year, Hyundai aims for 13-14 percent of consolidated revenue growth and 5.5-6.5 percent annual consolidated operating profit margin in 2022. The company aims for total vehicle sales of over 4.3 million units.

The first all-electric MINI 3-Door Cooper SE was launched in India today at an ex-showroom price of INR 47,20,000. Available as a completely built-up unit (CBU), all available units were sold out during the pre-launch booking in Q4 2021. MINI India will be delivering the cars to the pre-launch customers from March 2022, earlier than promised. Bookings for the next phase of deliveries will start from March 2022, exclusively on the MINI Online Shop – shop.mini.in.

The MINI Electric is the best of both worlds, giving you the iconic character of MINI with all the benefits of going electric. Emitting zero emissions, it’s the perfect combination of sustainable driving, thrilling driving performance and iconic MINI design. The MINI Electric is reinventing urban life. It is inspired by its roots, progressive yet iconic, a true trailblazer. The car is changing the face of mobility and continues MINI’s tradition of making creative use of urban space with its eye on the future.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “10 years into the country, MINI India is proud to bring the first all-electric car in the compact premium segment. In line with our ‘Digital First’ strategy, it is also the first series model exclusively available for booking on the MINI Online Shop and was completely sold out during the pre-launch booking phase itself. The MINI 3-Door Cooper SE combines MINI’s inventive spirit and iconic design with instant torque, zero emissions and a low centre of gravity that enhances its legendary go-kart feeling. It paves the way into the future of MINI as an E-brand (E-lectric E-commerce E-xperience). The MINI 3-Door Cooper SE will play a significant role in inspiring creative individuals and trendsetters to drive the silent revolution.”

The MINI 3-Door Cooper SE comes with a Smart Wallbox charger with a fixed charging cable and one-time installation.

MINI will globally be a fully electric brand after 2030. The MINI 3-Door Cooper SE paves the way into the future of MINI as an ‘Electric E-commerce Experience’ brand. The all-electric MINI 3-Door Cooper SE is the first model to combine electromobility in an urban setting with the hallmark MINI brand attributes. The dimensions, design, space and interior ambience are based on the conventionally powered MINI 3-Door Hatch.

The cars design blends modern aesthetic aerodynamic lines with new eye-catching signature details. Dynamic lines and a crisp, clean style combine with the wide track and short overhangs to give the MINI 3-Door Cooper SE its taut athletic presence. Striking ‘Energetic Yellow’ accents further enhance its unique appearance on the road. The sleek, captivating front grille has been given a very modern interpretation, embodying both MINI history and the future. The all-electric MINI is designed to complement vibrant city life and maximise your driving experience.

Distinctive headlights are accompanied by the new eye-catching side scuttles that house LED indicators and the Energetic Yellow ‘S’ logo. Mirror Caps in Energetic Yellow along with new design elements of the Piano Black exterior lend an even more individual appearance. The exclusive 17 inch / 43.18 cm Electric Power Spoke alloy wheels outlined in Energetic Yellow add to complete the all-electric MINI’s sleek design. The asymmetrical spokes lend them a unique appearance and are aerodynamically optimised to improve efficiency. The car is available in four unique exterior colours – White Silver, Midnight Black, Moonwalk Grey and British Racing Green.

The interior comes with the exclusive MINI Electric Interior Surface and sports seats with Cloth/ Leatherette Combination Upholstery in Black Pearl/ Carbon Black. The new multifunction steering wheel in Nappa Leather integrates more functions yet reduces the number of control surfaces. The new 5-inch/ 12.7 cm digital Multifunction Instrument Display in a sleek Black Panel design provides key driving information. It is brilliantly complemented by the 8.8-Inch/22.35 cm high-resolution, full-colour touchscreen. In addition, the audio control unit and the function buttons for hazard warning lights and driver assistance systems are integrated harmoniously into the circular control unit. Innumerable, finely integrated lighting strips and spots create ambient lighting that sets the right mood for every drive. Striking accents in ‘Energetic Yellow’ extend to the start/stop toggle switch, gear lever and unique badging on door sills.

The MINI Electric drive takes the legendary go-kart feeling to an entirely new and fascinating dimension with zero emissions and instant torque. With 184 hp/135 kW and a maximum torque of 270 Nm, the electric MINI sprints from 0-100 km in 7.3 seconds. Dynamic yet silent, the all-electric MINI offers an entirely new driving experience. It is powered with a battery capacity of 32.6 kWh and a driving range of up to 270 km.

MINI 3-Door Cooper SE ensures fast and hassle-free charging.

• 50 kW DC Charger – 80% in 36 mins.
• 11 kW AC Charger – 80% in 2 hours 30 minutes.
• 2.3 kW AC Charger– 80% in 9 hours 43 minutes.

In an exclusive edition of only 99 automobiles, a strictly limited number of the M850i xDrive Gran Coupé were created by Jeff Koons and BMW during several years of close collaboration. With THE 8 X JEFF KOONS, the most elaborately designed vehicle in all of BMW’s history will be presented to a global audience for the first time on the occasion of Frieze Los Angeles. BMW is a long-term partner of the art fair; Jeff Koons is represented globally, and at Frieze Los Angeles, by Pace Gallery.

Jeff Koons, artist, comments: “My edition of the BMW 8 Series is my dream car! It is very special to me and I’ve wanted to create a special edition BMW for a long time. It is sporty and flashy as well as minimalist and conceptual. I can’t wait to drive it and ride in it, and I hope that people will enjoy the Gran Coupé just as much as I do. On the car, the lines are getting bigger on their journey from the hood towards the trunk, creating a sense of forward movement just as the ‘POP!’ and the vapor thrust design elements do. The blue colour resembles the vastness of space and I like the idea of the car being a global car. What matters is how we relate to each other and our awareness of everything we are surrounded by. For the driver and all passengers, there is a heightened state of pleasure. This is what my car has to offer.”

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG: “BMW thrives on constantly seeking out new challenges! Working with Jeff Koons again has inspired us all – throughout headquarters and across our plants in Germany. Never before in the history of our company has a BMW been created with such an extensive design effort as THE 8 X JEFF KOONS. A ‘rolling sculpture’ that will not only be displayed as a coveted collector’s item in museums but will also be allowed to flourish on the road as a genuine BMW.”

The expressive and striking design combines eleven different exterior colours ranging from blue to silver as well as from yellow to black. Only four cars will be painted each week. The multi-colored interior is comprised of high-end materials, fine leather and a cupholder lid with an edition badging and the artist’s signature. The seats are made up of the striking red and blue which reflects the colors of superheroes from the comic book universe as well as those of the company’s high-performance unit BMW M. Overall, the energetic and powerful design includes both elements of pop art as well as geometric patterns paying homage to the sporty 8 Series Gran Coupe’s intricate contours and shape. The exploding lines of color at the rear, in turn, are their own unmediated homage to the artist’s 2010 BMW Art Car, while the “POP!” on each side as well as the vapor thrust imagery symbolize the power and speed of THE 8 X JEFF KOONS, according to the artist.

Over 200 hours of manual work were spent by highly specialized professionals at the BMW Group plants in Dingolfing and Landshut on the exterior paintwork alone, where the color samples were often applied with magnifying glasses. “Energetic,” “tantalizing,” and “strong” is how international media described the car, following the publication of first design studies on the occasion of the cooperation’s announcement in early September 2021 at Munich’s Pinakothek der Moderne museum. “Dozens of engineers and designers have given their all to celebrate our partnership and make his vision come true,” said Oliver Zipse. The artist himself spent many days on site at the Dingolfing plant over a period of numerous months discussing design options with the BMW employees involved. “I was thinking very intensely about it: What is the essence of the 8 Series Gran Coupé? What is the essence of power? How to create something that exemplifies all the energy of the BMW 8 Series that is also able to touch upon the human element?”

Each vehicle comes with a large-format certificate signed by Jeff Koons, which in addition to Oliver Zipse’s signature also contains the individual Vehicle Identification Number of the respective vehicle. The artist also designed the dust jacket of the Driver’s Manual. One further signature of the artist is let into the cupholder panel. Koons deliberately chose the Bavarian blue from the BMW logo.

The original BMW 850i was the first model of the 8 Series launched in 1990 and was celebrated as creating a new perspective of progress in advanced motoring, appealing to the connoisseur who acknowledges elegance and performance as the ultimate blend of perfection. THE 8 X JEFF KOONS also continues this tradition.

In 2010, the American artist already created a unique BMW M3 GT2 Art Car which performed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race and was unveiled at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. That same year, the rock singer Bono from U2 wrote in an editorial for the New York Times that Jeff Koons should have a part in designing the car of the future. BMW and Koons continued the conversation and in early 2020 decided on a limited edition of the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé, which had its world premiere in January 2022.

Initially, THE 8 X JEFF KOONS will be on display for the general public in Manhattan’s Rockefeller Plaza before one vehicle from the edition, signed on the tailgate by Jeff Koons, will be auctioned off at Christie’s in New York on April 4. All proceeds from the highest bid will go to the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC). Jeff Koons has been personally involved with this nonprofit NGO for over two decades.

Following its world premiere, THE 8 X JEFF KOONS will be presented at numerous art fairs and events in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, including the 16th Istanbul Contemporary, Paris Photo, the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Art Dubai, West Bund Art & Design Fair Shanghai and Art Basel Hong Kong.

Initiated by French race car driver and art aficionado Hervé Poulain and conceived in collaboration with the founder of BMW Motorsport Jochen Neerpasch, the first BMW Art Car was commissioned when both asked Alexander Calder to design Poulain’s BMW race car in 1975. Since then, 19 artists from throughout the world have created BMW automobiles of their time. The BMW Art Cars by Roy Lichtenstein, Esther Mahlangu, Jenny Holzer, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Ólafur Elíasson, Frank Stella, Robert Rauschenberg, Cao Fei and John Baldessari, among others, are all inspired by developments in art, design and technology. Jeff Koons designed the 17th BMW Art Car in 2010, the BMW M3 GT2, which also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. On the occasion of 50 years of BMW Group Cultural Engagement last year, the Art Cars entered the digital realm and are presented in augmented reality since then. Via the free Acute Art app, the digital rolling sculptures are accessible to everyone around the world at any time.

Mercedes-Benz has rolled out a new-age marketing campaign “Are you AMG-ready?” The new campaign announces Mercedes-Benz India’s shift to new age performance marketing and underlines an important strategic move by the company to target social-media-savvy AMG customers who are highly active on Instagram, some of them being semi-influencers in their own right. The latest campaign redefines the marketing playbook by leveraging ‘Instagram’ as its hero channel for promotion.

The campaign is a departure from the regular media mix and leverages customer-insight driven performance marketing, catering to the lifestyle of AMG customers. It is designed to bind existing customers to the brand and conquer new target groups, while focussing on the timeless AMG spirit. The campaign introduces a new imagery and a confident tone- freedom-loving and rebellious – offering a glimpse of upcoming product campaigns that are set to excite the AMG customers and performance enthusiasts during the course of the year.

Commenting on the new campaign, Santosh Iyer, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India remarked, “The “Are you AMG-ready?” campaign aims at making the brand more desirable while simultaneously reaching new target groups. It showcases Mercedes-Benz’s sharp customer focus by repurposing the media mix to ensure maximum engagement with customers. Our AMG customers are adrenaline loving, feisty spirited digital natives who seek instant reaction and constant engagement from the brand. They are performance purists whose passion for the AMG brand has led them to become semi-influencers in their own right. The campaign salutes our AMG customers, their inspiring AMG spirit and passion for performance, which will strengthen the AMG brand further.”

“The campaign acknowledges the evolving psyche and AMG lifestyle of our customers and invites them to explore the infinite possibilities just like the powerful and scintillating personality of the AMG performance brand itself. We firmly believe “Are you AMG-ready?” campaign will redefine the marketing playbook for the future, and set a new instance for new-age performance marketing in India. The campaign also is a precursor to the introductions of some of the most exciting AMG products this year.” Elaborated Mr. Iyer

The campaign video has been ideated and conceptualized by renowned British star photographer and filmmaker Rankin’s agency, Rankin Agency London.

The campaign includes numerous Instagram assets each telling an individual story. They focus on four highlight vehicles from the AMG model portfolio: two historic milestones in the shape of the SLS AMG Electric Drive and the 300 E 5.6 AMG (“The Hammer”) as well as two current vehicles in the form of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.

Embraced with efficiency and sporty looks, the AMG models are the true adrenaline of the luxury car. It is a blend of luxury, sportiness, performance, and team spirit; qualities that customers always rely on. AMG is currently systematically driving forward the transformation of the company and redefining the future of Driving Performance. True to its qualities, the campaign is built on the principle of creating a strong relationship between the brand and the customers who are bold, highly spirited, and powerful just like AMG.