The first-ever BMW iX has been launched in India at an introductory price of INR 1,15,90,000.

The BMW iX is the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. It is the first BMW without any numerals in its designation. ‘iX’ stands for the first BMW electric all-wheel drive vehicle (SAV – Sports Activity Vehicle). It effortlessly combines premium mobility with zero-emissions, sporting agility and a long operating range with luxurious spaciousness.

The car will be available as a completely-built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked through BMW dealerships across major metropolitan cities in India as well as shop.bmw.in. Deliveries will start by beginning of April 2022.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “In a rapidly changing world, the first-ever BMW iX is the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ for a new generation. Latest BMW eDrive technology, combined with the functionality of X5, dynamics of X6 and striking appearance of X7, has given birth to the symbol of a new age. Born Electric, the BMW iX imbibes the principles of sustainability throughout its lifecycle, right from production to usage to end-of-life, making comprehensive use of natural and recyclable materials. It is so much more than a car – it’s a modern way of life. It is Joy, born again!”

The first-ever BMW iX is available in exciting metallic paintworks Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire and Sophisto Grey. It is also optionally available in BMW Individual Aventurine Red metallic paint finish. Exclusive olive-leaf tanned natural leather upholstery ‘Interior Design Suite’ comes in Castanea color scheme.

‘Shy Tech’ (or stealth technology) is technology that remains out of sight with exterior and interior features that only become visible when actually in use – Intelligent BMW kidney grille with sensors, camera and radar tech, proximity sensors in body edging, flush door openers, washer under front logo, camera with washer in rear logo, integrated speakers, BMW Head-Up Display’s projector recessed into the instrument panel among others.

Characterised by sculptural and monolithic design, the iX represents a new face that makes mobility easier and comfortable while creating powerful presence and dynamics rarely seen in a vehicle – large BMW kidney grille, narrowest BMW headlights ever, frameless windows, 3-D bonnet, rectangular wheel arches, flared shoulder area and slim one-piece rear-lights. Interior is minimalist yet spacious due to absence of central tunnel and a flat floor that leaves one surrounded with a feeling of ease and relaxation with freedom of movement giving it a lounge-like atmosphere.

The most striking features include the longest ever single-piece BMW Curved Glass Display angled towards the driver, race car inspired hexagonal steering wheel making entry / exit easier, electrochromic BMW Sky Lounge Panorama Glass Roof, multi-functional seats with integral head restraints and massage function, bespoke leather upholstery, Ambient Lighting for every mood and luggage capacity of up to 1,750 litres with 40/20/40 split.

Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology features a highly integrated drive unit within a single housing that is powered by two electric motors (for front and rear axles), single-speed transmission and power electronics. The iX instantly accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometres/hour in 6.1 seconds with an output of 326 hp. The intelligent all-wheel drive is quick to respond and distributes the right amount of torque between the front and rear wheels to suit the driving situation and road surface. ‘My Modes’ switch changes driving character to Personal, Sport or Efficient. BMW IconicSounds Electric creates engaging driving sounds and pedestrian alerts.

Two high-voltage batteries integrated in the floor have a combined capacity of 76.6 kWh and provide a range of up to 425 kilometres.

The first-ever BMW iX ensures fast and hassle-free charging. Charging time is –

• 150 kW DC Charger – 80% in 31 min / 95 kms added range in 10 min
• 50 kW DC Charger – 80% in 73 min / 100 kms added range in 21 min
• 11 kW AC Charger – 100% in about 7 hrs / 100 kms added range in 2.5 hrs

As an introductory offer, the BMW iX will come with a complimentary smart BMW Wallbox charger. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 11kW.

BMW Group India aims to build one of the best charging networks in the luxury segment with fast chargers at BMW dealer network in 35 cities across India.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier. BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding BMW Curved Display with Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 14.9-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 Natural Interaction that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 18 speakers conjures an engrossing treat for the ears. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or narrow driveways. It records the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering.

Sustainability is in the DNA of BMW long before Sheer Driving Pleasure begins. BMW principle of Circular Economy – ‘RE:THINK, RE:DUCE, RE:USE, RE:CYCLE’ cuts down use of primary raw materials and increases secondary materials. Reduction of carbon footprint is achieved throughout the value chain and all stages of lifecycle by making comprehensive use of natural and recyclable materials and production with 100% green electricity.

The first-ever BMW iX comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. The batteries are covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometres. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation.

India’s racing star Jehan Daruvala, part of the Red Bull Racing Junior Team, pulled off a sensational victory in Formula 2 at the Yas Marina Circuit on Saturday.

The main support race for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw Jehan start on Pole (first), soak up immense pressure and eventually script his second victory and fifth podium in Formula 2 this year.

Jehan got off to an excellent start and held his lead in the short run down to Corner 1 of the 5.281km circuit. Behind, Dan Tictum slipped to fourth while Felipe Drugovich, starting third, gained a position to get into second.

Drugovich, then, started piling the pressure on Jehan. Twice on the first lap, the Brazilian managed to pull alongside Jehan, but the Indian held him at bay with some clever positioning of his car.

“After struggling in the early part of the weekend, it is fantastic to win here. I was under a lot of pressure in the first few laps as well as later on. But I remained confident and really enjoyed the racing. It’s a good result for the team, so thank you to everyone who has worked hard to make this happen. Starting tenth in the next race is going to be tough, but I will do my best,” said Jehan after his third win in Formula 2 races in two years.

Midway through the race, Drugovich again started piling on the pressure. He lunged down the inside of Jehan and almost shot ahead too. But Jehan stayed by his side till the corner, where he emerged ahead once again.

Initially, it seemed like Jehan had pushed his car and tyres too hard too early in the race to break the DRS opportunity for the drivers behind. But Jehan had, in fact, managed to absorb the immense pressure and repeated attacks while also preserving his tyre life. Towards the end of the race, Jehan opened up a small gap to Drugovich and kept increasing it.

Jehan comfortably won the race with a 2-second margin over Drugovich to earn his fifth podium of the season. Championship leader Oscar Piastri climbed up the order and finished third to win the 2021 Formula 2 title comfortably. The top ten from this race will be reversed for the start of Race 2, which means that Jehan will have to start tenth.

After showing tremendous pace and overtaking skills in Jeddah last weekend on the fastest street circuit on the F1 calendar, due to penalties in races, Jehan had missed out on a podium last weekend. This race was a strong comeback from the Indian star.

19-year-old Mechatronics Technician Amaan Shaikh from Pune, Maharashtra bagged top honours for India at the 21st edition of the Volkswagen Group’s Best Apprentice Award 2021. With this achievement, Amaan joined the ranks of up-and-coming professionals, who completed their vocational training last year and are among
the 50 best apprentices in the Group worldwide.

Every year, the Volkswagen Group presents the Best Apprentice Award to the 50 most talented apprentices, honouring their outstanding professional competence and performance. Keeping up with its annual tradition, the Volkswagen Group presented the ‘Best Apprentice Award’ to 50 trainees from 19 countries, globally. This year, Amaan Shaikh impressed the panel with his skills and competencies in Work planning, Machining, PLC & robotic programming, Installation & commissioning,
Troubleshooting of Mechatronics systems.

Sarma Chillara, Group Head of HR and Administration ŠKODA AUTO Volkswagen India Private Limited said, “It gives me great pride to witness our apprentice Amaan Shaikh win Volkswagen Group’s coveted Best Apprentice Award 2021. I congratulate
Amaan and his batchmates from the graduating batch for their excellent performance and for upskilling their technical capabilities especially on future-oriented technologies in this Dual Vocational training program of the Volkswagen Academy.”

The Mechatronics 2021 program is part of ŠAVW’s global initiative based on the unique training methodology using advanced technology to upskill and re-skill talent. The program gave apprentices an opportunity for global exposure in economies including Germany, China, and Brazil.

Receiving the Best Apprentice Award 2021, Amaan Shaikh said, “I am delighted on being recognized as the Best Apprentice from India for 2021. I would like to thank ŠAVWIPL for giving me this transformational opportunity through the Mechatronics
program. I am confident that these learnings and skills will play an important role in my career progression and I am also hoping that I can make a meaningful contribution to the future of mobility.”

Hailing from Thane, A Trainee-Machine Shop, Amaan has received training in Metal working, Electrical & Electronics, Industrial Automation, Hydraulics and Pneumatics, Robotics, Welding, Auto CAD & CATIA, CNC, and 3D printing. He has learned
competencies across Work planning, Machining, PLC & robotic programming, Installation & commissioning, Troubleshooting of Mechatronics systems.

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), today announced its roadmap to drive the electric mobility revolution in India with the expansion of its line-up to six Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) for the Indian market by 2028. Further, Hyundai will also introduce its dedicated BEV Platform – E-GMP in India, showcasing its commitment towards smart Indian customers.

Commenting on the corporate announcement, Mr. S S Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai has been at the forefront of the electric mobility revolution in India, with the introduction of India’s 1st Electric SUV – KONA Electric in 2019. Hyundai Motor India has been delighting customers with the most innovative and technologically advanced mobility solutions over the last two and a half decades. As we continue to redefine the mobility space, today we are yet again showcasing our commitment towards Indian customers with the announcement of expanding our BEV line-up to 6 vehicles for the Indian Market by 2028. At Hyundai, we are taking experiences Beyond Mobility and are strongly focusing on Intelligent Technology, Sustainability and Innovation. Keeping in line with this thought, we will introduce our dedicated BEV Platform – E-GMP as well as modified platforms for battery electric vehicles in India. By driving the adoption of electric mobility at scale in India, Hyundai will become the fulcrum for transformation of a brighter and better tomorrow.”

ELECTRIC GLOBAL MODULAR PLATFORM (E-GMP)

Hyundai Motor Group globally showcased its E-GMP dedicated BEV platform for future electric vehicles, marking a new era for the brand. Driving the pump-to-plug revolution, Hyundai will pioneer the development of future electric vehicles with this dedicated BEV platform that comprises of vehicle chassis that includes the battery, motor and power electric system. With scalable dimensions, this platform will form the backbone of different types of vehicles. With an innovative interior packaging vehicles developed on E-GMP will feature a flat floor, slim cockpit and a flexible & spacious cabin.

E-GMP has been developed on 4 Key Pillars of:

· Modularity – With one platform that can facilitate many body types, feature a modularised battery system and create greater synergies with BEV component sharing.

· Reliability – Featuring a low centre of gravity, use of Ultra High Strength Steel and 8-point battery mounting, E-GMP will pave the way to highly reliable BEVs of the future.

· Usability – With a flat floor and flexible seating layout as well as an innovative interior space that offers sliding console and sliding 2nd row seats, E-GMP will usher in a new dimension of usability.

· Performance – Featuring a large battery capacity up to 77.4 kWh, 2WD/ 4WD capabilities, improved handling and capability to achieve a top speed of 260 km/h, E-GMP will drive in a new age of fun-to-drive electric vehicles.

LINE-UP OF 6 BEVs BY 2028

Catering to the diversity of the Indian market, Hyundai’s line-up of six Battery Electric Vehicles will cater to multiple segments including Mass market and Mass Premium segments in India. To further delight customers, Hyundai will introduce these BEVs in different body styles including SUV body shape by 2028, thereby offering a wide range of models for customers to choose from.

25 YEARS OF COMMITMENT TO MAKE-IN-INDIA

Over the last two and a half decades, Hyundai Motor India has been fueling the Make-in-India movement by leading the automotive industry with excellence in manufacturing. Aligning with the Government’s vision of Electrification, Hyundai has worked towards the development of a concrete BEV roadmap that will breathe life into the Electrification ecosystem in India, focusing on localization of manufacturing synergies for Battery Electric Vehicles.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE

Hyundai Motor India to work towards the development of BEV infrastructure in India with strategic collaborations to drive a widespread adoption of BEVs in India. Hyundai Motor India will work towards the development of a customer centric BEV charging solutions with a focus on:

· Home Charging

· Public Charging station

· Charging Facility at HMIL Dealer Network

· Peace of Mind with 24 X 7 road side assistance

Audi today announced a new variant of the Audi A4 – the Audi A4 Premium to celebrate a successful 2021. The Audi A4, in its fifth generation, boasts a new design and a powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine that generates 140 kW (190 hp) of power and 320 Nm of torque.

The Audi A4 Premium is an addition to the existing line up – including the A4 Premium Plus and A4 Technology variants. The Audi A4 Premium is priced at INR 39,99,000 ex-showroom.

Commenting on the introduction, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The Audi A4 since its launch in January has garnered great response – this is a car that has historically been a volume seller for the brand. Today, we are happy to introduce a new variant – the Audi A4 Premium to mark the success of our brand in 2021. This is a time to celebrate and we couldn’t be happier that we are able to give our customers a choice of three trim levels to choose from. I am confident this will bring in more customers to the ever-growing Audi family.”

The Audi A4 Premium with its multi-dimensional design is perfect for both everyday driving and a thrilling, fun drive. Built for comfort, safety, and practicality, the car is equipped with multiple state-of-the-art features that make it a combination of power, technology, and efficiency.

The Audi A4 is now on offer in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus and Technology, and customers can choose from five exterior colours and two interior colours.

The All-New Royal Enfield Classic 350 continues to embody the traditions and craftsmanship of the past as it is reborn. Inspired by the post war G2 model, first born in 1950’s, the all new Classic 350 continues to be a testament to the timeless design which took the motorcycling world with an awe back in the heydays of British motorcycling.

The Classic teardrop fuel tank, the distinctive thump and the hallmark casquette headlamp – all harmonise as one, rejoicing in the masterpiece that is the timeless Royal Enfield Classic.

At the heart of the All-New Royal Enfield Classic is a 350 cc, single cylinder, fuel injected, air cooled engine that offers a responsive ride experience. The engine delivers 20.2 hp of maximum power at 6100 rpm and churns out 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.

The the twin downtube spine frame ensures that the ride on the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is comfortable, stable and coupled with the almost vibe-free engine that makes for a very relaxed yet engaging ride.

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes with a fuel tank capacity of 13 litres which ensures that you can enjoy peaceful long rides. The 170 mm ground clearance results in a comfortable ride across terrains. The single & dual channel ABS assures reliable and confident braking on your rides.

The All-New Royal Enfield Classic 350 is available in 11 attractive colour schemes which is sure to turn heads while on the move -Chrome Bronze, Gunmetal Grey, Dark Stealth Black, Halcyon Black, Halcyon Green, Halcyon Grey, Signals Marsh Grey, Signals Desert Sand, Redditch Sage Green, Redditch Grey and Redditch Red.

It is no mean job to take an iconic bike like the Classic 350 and try to make it better without losing any of its timeless charm which forms the very basis of it global fan following. Kudos to Royal Enfield for finding that fine balance in retaining everything that was fabulous about the Classic 350, but at the same time upgrading the bike with modern levels of engineering and design enhancements which has significantly improved the riding experience.

The all new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is now better in all aspects- more refined performance, better dynamics, a myriad of attractive colour options and looks solidly built as well. This new Classic 350 is all set to spearhead the segment of single cylinder modern classics.

Few cult classics can retain their timeless appeal like this Royal Enfield has. The Classic 350 has been the top-selling retro-styled motorcycle not just in our country but across the world. So if you aspire to own an easy to ride, comfortable, affordable, solidly-built and pure modern retro motorcycle, then your quest ends here. Look no further than the All-New Royal Enfield Classic 350 – a legend is truly reborn. Whether parked in your garage or on the move, it is bound to make a strong statement.

Photographs by Sourish Meryson

Polestar, the pure play, premium electric car company, has released a second teaser image of the forthcoming Polestar 3 electric performance SUV, which is set to launch in 2022. Polestar 3 is the company’s first SUV and will be its first vehicle to be built in the US, with production set to take place in Charleston, South Carolina.

This news follows the September announcement of Polestar’s intention to list on Nasdaq in connection with its proposed business combination with Gores Guggenheim, Inc. (Nasdaq: GGPI, GGPIW, and GGPIU), which is expected to close in the first half of 2022.

“We will build in America for Americans,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. “Polestar 3 is planned to be launched in 2022 as a premium electric performance SUV that will define the look of SUVs in the electric age. It will also be the first Polestar vehicle to be built in America.”

Thomas Ingenlath hosted investors and press at a series of events in New York to discuss the company’s vision, brand and growth plans. The audience learned that Polestar 3 is intended to be one of the most climate-responsible cars ever made and will in time offer autonomous highway piloting powered by the best-in-class LiDAR sensor from Luminar and centralized NVIDIA computing power.

The premium SUV market is the fastest growing segment in the US automotive industry and is expected to be one of the most rapid to adopt fully electric vehicles.

Polestar Precept, the company’s manifesto concept car that previews the future of its design, technology and sustainability, also made its US debut in New York City. Precept now embarks on a national tour, visiting Polestar retail locations throughout the US into the new year.

Thomas Ingenlath told audiences he believes there is a fundamental difference between Polestar and many other electric car companies. “We are not a virtual company waiting to build factories and sell cars; we are an actual company already building and selling cars around the world. Our two award-winning cars are on the road in 14 markets globally and we expect our global sales volume to reach around 29,000 vehicles this year.”

Thomas Ingenlath also underlined the company’s established manufacturing and sales capability, expressing that Polestar is planning to launch a new car every year for the next three years, starting with Polestar 3, and plans to increase its presence to at least 30 global markets by the end of 2023.

Expanding presence in these new markets, the arrival of three new cars, and further advances in its existing markets, mean that Polestar plans to grow ten-fold from global sales of around 29,000 in 2021 to 290,000 by 2025. “From here on in, Polestar is all about growth,” concludes Thomas Ingenlath.

Polestar 3 will be built at the Volvo Cars plant in Charleston, South Carolina. Volvo Cars is a large shareholder in Polestar, allowing Polestar to benefit from the Swedish company’s world leading safety technologies, but also generate cost efficiencies through financial and industrial synergies.

Bridgestone has been chosen as tyre supplier for the Audi Q4 e-tron – Audi’s first compact, fully-electric SUV. To meet Audi’s demanding technical requirements for the Q4 e-tron, Bridgestone developed custom-engineered ultra-low rolling resistance summer tyres with ENLITEN Technology. Sustainable and lightweight, ENLITEN Technology reduces tyre rolling resistance by up to 30 per cent and weight by up to 20 per cent to extend EV driving range and reduce environmental impact thanks to improved resource productivity.

The bespoke summer tyres offer a rolling resistance performance that betters the European A label grade threshold, and make no compromises when it comes to on-road stability, which is crucial for the heavy load on a rear traction vehicle.

Bridgestone sees electric mobility as a huge opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions and make mobility more environmentally sustainable, and is proud to be collaborating with Audi in helping to accelerate the electric future.

The Audi Q4 e-tron with bespoke Bridgestone Turanza ECO summer and Blizzak LM005 winter tyres, developed and produced in Europe, is now available on the European market.

BMW India held its exclusive driving program – BMW Joyfest 2021 – in ‘The City of Joy’ – Kolkata on 27 – 28 November 2021. The much-awaited event was held at Aquatica water theme park in Kouchpukur, near Rajarhat township. Hundreds of customers and prospects got the first-hand experience of BMW’s ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ and MINI’s ‘Go-Kart Feeling’.

The two-day event showcased the driving dynamics, modern functionality and high performance of the fascinating range of BMW and MINI product portfolio. The multi-city BMW Joyfest is being held in 13 cities across India.

The platform offered customers and prospects the experience of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands under a single roof. They test drove the latest vehicles under expert supervision and interacted with product experts. BMW certified trainers offered valuable advice on driving etiquette and techniques like slalom, fast laps, corner braking and emergency braking. The latest range of BMW sedans, sports activity vehicles (SAVs) and MINI cars were available for test drives. The BMW M340i xDrive and BMW Motorrad motorcycles were on special display at the event.

A dedicated lifestyle zone showcased merchandise and accessories from all three exciting brands that were available on special offers.

Based on premium international standards, the BMW Joyfest features a one-of-its-kind immersive set-up with an observation deck. A special gaming zone ensures all round entertainment for the entire family. Participants can play games such as air hockey, foosball and exciting simulator-based racing games along with an opportunity to win lots of prizes.

The team of Sandip Mukherjee and Prakash Muthusamy emerged victorious at the Elegant Steel Monsoon Drive 10, held on Sunday, November 28 making this their second consecutive win in INRRC qualifying rounds in as many weeks.

Monsoon Drive 10 was the third East Zone qualifying round of the JK Tyre FMSCI Indian National Regulatory Run Championship (INRRC) organised by Just Sportz, a Kolkata based sports management company.

Mukherjee, 69, along with his co-driver Muthusamy, maintained a consistent performance in both the legs of the rally to incur only 174 penalty points. The team of Subir Roy and Nirav Mehta took the first runner-up position with 284 penalty points.

Favourites Ajgar Ali and Mohammed Musthafa, who have together won previous editions of Monsoon Drive, emerged the second runner-up with 396 points. The team of Deep Dutta and Chandan Sen, a reputable navigator, came a close fourth with 404 penalty points. The duo of Soumyadeb Shaw and co-driver Souvick De Sarkar finished in the fifth position with 461 penalty points.

The first leg of the rally was flagged off from Country Roads Resorts at Panchla in Howrah at 8.30 am Sunday. The competitors navigated through rural roads and dirt tracks to reach the Haldia Helipad Ground by early afternoon.

The second leg of the rally was flagged off from Haldia Helipad Ground, and culminated at the Haldia Mela grounds. It was a short but tricky leg which saw the teams put on their thinking cap even while putting the pedal to the metal.

In the Open Category, the team of Sk. Aniruddha and Barun Chowdhury took the top step of the podium with 681 penalty points, followed by veteran rallyist Ratan Kumar Paul and co-driver Debashish Ghosh in the second position with 846 penalty points. Toushik Ghosh and Debargha Mukherjee finished third with 1184 penalty points.

This year saw the introduction of a new ‘Ladies Cup’ category to encourage participation of women in motorsports. The mother-daughter duo of Nilasha Das and co-driver Ipshita Das took the first position in this category with 1390 penalty points.

The sister-in-law pair of Alivia Sheikh and Sunita Prasad finished first runner-up in this category with 3226 penalty points. Out-of-towners Jasmeet Kaur (from Gurugram) and Jyoti Iyengar (Mumbai) sealed the second runner-up position with 3374 penalty points.

The INRRC will have 16 Qualifying rounds across six zones, with the top Five competitors from each zone qualifying for the finals.

Himalayan Drive 9, the marquee motorsports event in this part of India, will form the final round of INRRC and will be held in North Bengal & Sikkim in March 2021. The winners of the Finals will thus become National Champions & will be called the Indian National Regularity Run Champion 2021.