Kia announced an update to its ‘Plan S’ strategy for its future business at the 2021 CEO Investor Day, held digitally today in Seoul. The ambitious update to its mid- to long-term roadmap was presented by Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Corporation.

“Kia is being reborn in 2021 with a new logo, new design, and new corporate name,” said President Song. “Kia will transform into a brand that excites and inspires customers with innovative mobility experiences.”

‘Kia transformation’ takes the company toward a broader business portfolio to redefine the entire mobility ecosystem, starting with the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) to electrification. The renewed ‘Plan S’ strategy is underpinned by three core pillars: advancing electric vehicle (EV) transition, strengthening purpose-built vehicle (PBV) business, and expanding future mobility services.

By 2030, eco-friendly vehicles such as EVs, HEVs and PHEVs will make up 40 per cent of all sales for Kia, with an annual sales target of 1.6 million units. As part of this, Kia aims to grow EV sales to 880,000 units in 2030 and become a top global seller.

Starting with the launch of its first dedicated EV later this year, Kia will strengthen its EV lineup by 2026 with 11 new models – seven dedicated EVs built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture, and four based on existing ICE derivatives.

EVs built on E-GMP aim to set new benchmarks in All-Electric Range (AER), driving performance, interior space, and tech application. The EVs will function as smart devices with expanded application of Audio Video Navigation Telematics (AVNT), Over-the-Air (OTA) and Feature on Demand (FoD) services.

The first dedicated EV from Kia, codenamed CV, will be featured with HDA2 (Highway Driving Assist Level 2) technology. Starting in 2023, Kia EVs will be equipped with Highway Driving Pilot (HDP), a crucial autonomous driving Level 3 development.

Further product details and performance specifications for the CV will be revealed next month.

Kia will unveil its first purpose-built vehicle (PBV) in 2022, with further PBVs to be launched according to market needs. The company is targeting annual sales of one million units by 2030 to become a world leader in PBVs. To this end, Kia will develop a variety of specialised vehicles based on its PBV-dedicated skateboard platforms.

Kia plans to further expand its PBV business through open innovation by cooperating with other companies to develop micro/large board platforms for unmanned delivery and e-commerce sectors. The company will also advance its own highly scalable small board platforms and technologies since the company expects market demand for these services to increase globally.

Kia’s mobility services will gain a competitive edge by carefully targeting and focusing on core areas.

In the business-to-consumer domain, Kia will expand existing services. In Spain, the company’s flagship car-sharing service Wible will be expanded with Wible Más and Wible Empresas (tentatively named). The car usership service ‘KiaMobility’, which was launched in September last year as a pilot project in Italy and Russia, will also launch in additional European markets.

In the business-to-government and business-to-business, Kia will launch an EV-based service that combines subscription and car-sharing. Under this new mobility service concept, vehicles will be used for business on weekdays and rented by individuals on the weekends.

Kia’s subscription program ‘Kia Flex’, which was introduced in Korea in 2019, will launch a global version later this year under the name ‘Kia Subscription.’ The service will be operated by Sixt Leasing, which was acquired by Hyundai Motor Group last year, and the vehicles will be provided by the company’s regional affiliates and dealers.

Future business plans

(1) Business targets

Kia forecasts operating profit growth this year, based on increased sales volume and improved Average Selling Price (ASP) and product mix. In summary:

2021 Global Sales (based on wholesale): 2,922,000 units, 12.1 per cent increase Y-o-Y
2021 Revenue: KRW 65.6 trillion, 10.8 per cent increase Y-o-Y
2021 Operating Profit: KRW 3.5 trillion, 70.1 per cent increase Y-o-Y

(2) Operating profit margin

With increased profitability for new EV models, Kia made upward adjustments to its operating profit margin targets from the figures initially announced last year. Kia now targets 5.4 per cent operating profit margin in 2021, and 7.9 per cent operating profit margin in 2025.

(3) Basis for the increase in operating profit margin

Balanced growth in both advanced and emerging markets. Kia plans to expand its mid- to long-term sales to 3.8 million units in 2025. The percentage of eco-friendly vehicle sales, which is expected to reach around 10 per cent of total sales by 2021, is forecasted to increase to 22 per cent by 2025. For emerging markets, the company will expand its market share through local CKD (complete knock-down) production.

Product mix improvement

Kia expects that the ASP and product mix improvement, which led to the company’s profitability enhancement last year, will continue. In particular, the company’s RV (recreational vehicle) sales share is expected to continue to rise from 56 per cent in 2020 to 65 per cent in 2025.

Improving profitability of electric vehicles

It is expected that Kia will enter a new level of EV profitability with the release of CV later this year. The company expects to achieve profitability at the level of existing ICE models in 2025. The company also predicts that EV cost improvement will be continuously strengthened through economies of scale due to the expansion of EV volume and the reduction of material cost through R&D investment.

Stable and steady investment plan

Kia’s investment outlay from 2020 to 2025 is expected to be KRW 29 trillion. Kia will maintain the annual investment level of around KRW five trillion, reducing the current investment in existing traditional business segments while gradually increasing the proportion of strategic investment for future projects. Furthermore, the company will expand its investment in R&D.

BMW India has launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine in the country. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai exclusively for the Indian market, the car is available in both petrol and diesel variants at all BMW India dealerships.

The long wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ is a new addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It is the long wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series. It has been launched in India considering the clientele’s preference for long sedans. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine offers sportiness, comfort and innovations exclusively for the Indian market.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The 3 Series is the soul of the BMW brand and has won over millions of customers around the world. The ultimate sports sedan has now set the ultimate standard in luxury in a new form – the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine. With its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance, the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine has a unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as the family. The Gran Limousine has been tailored with an innovative proposition that will attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine blends the joy of driving and the outstanding comfort of an extremely spacious sedan. The grandeur rises many notches higher, thanks to a modern design with a larger, elongated body and bigger rear doors. Due to the extended wheelbase, there is more room to unwind, more legroom for rear passengers and a pleasant seating experience even on long journeys. The powerful engine ensures thrilling performance and acceleration. The long list of indulgence features such as Panorama Glass Sunroof, Comfort Seats in front, bespoke ‘Vernasca’ leather upholstery, luxurious rear seat, Parking Assist with Reverse Assist, Ambient Lighting, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Wireless Charging adds to its appeal.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in two attractive design schemes – Luxury Line and the exclusive M Sport ‘First Edition’ which is limited to launch phase only. Luxury Line indulges movement in style and endows elegance. M Sport ‘First Edition’ bestows a masculine character with distinguished M elements evoking the racing spirit. The additional features of M Sport ‘First Edition’ are BMW Head Up Display, BMW Gesture Control, Comfort Access and Surround view cameras with 360 view including top, panorama and 3D view.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in one diesel variant (BMW 320Ld Luxury Line) and two petrol variants (BMW 330Li Luxury Line and BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’) which are locally produced. The ex-showroom prices are –

BMW 330Li Luxury Line – INR 51,50,000

BMW 320Ld Luxury Line – INR 52,50,000

BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’ – INR 53,90,000

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in four metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Melbourne Red, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. The choice of upholstery combinations includes Leather Vernasca Cognac | Black and Oyster | Black.

The exterior body design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine blends the new, extremely precise design language and sporting aura of the BMW 3 Series with distinctive proportions. The unique character in long-wheelbase guise stems from an extra 110 millimetres of wheelbase and the associated increase in seating comfort and legroom in the rear compartment. Encompassing an exterior length of 4,819 millimetres and a 2,961-millimetre wheelbase, the exterior dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine outstrip those of any other car in its class.

Creating a striking front look is the large BMW kidney grille with single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment. The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. A sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L- shaped LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate grand cabin spaciousness. The rear doors are 110 mm longer than those of the BMW 3 Series sedan, allowing for an extra 43 mm of legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened / closed at the press of a button. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ has Comfort Access which goes a step further and allows completely handsfree operation of the boot lid.

Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel in Luxury Line and M leather steering wheel in M Sport ‘First Edition’ with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster / control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. The three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.2 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 7.6 seconds.

The eight speed steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. 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, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver can choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions – ECO PRO, Comfort, Sport and Sport+.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25 inch Control Display. The occupants can operate a number of 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 (available in M Sport ‘First Edition’). The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. The car has a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

The BMW Head-Up Display in M Sport ‘First Edition’ projects driving-related information onto the windscreen and directly into the driver’s field of view. It employs full-colour graphics and provides a wealth of information to the driver without having to divert their eyes from the road. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ features surround view cameras with 360view including top view, panorama view and 3D view.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, 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.

Tata Motors has announced the launch of the i-Turbo variant along with iRA-connected car technology for its premium hatchback, Altroz. iRA comes with 27 connected car features along with natural voice tech, through which the car understands commands not only in English or Hindi, but also in Hinglish. Additionally, it is India’s first hatchback to introduce What3Words technology – a precise and unique tool that makes navigation easier than before. The Company has also added a new top of the line XZ+ variant in a petrol and diesel fuel option to the Altroz family. The Altroz i-Turbo is launched at an introductory ex-showroom price increment of INR.60, 000 above the Altroz Revotron petrol variants.

Commenting on the launch of the Altroz i-Turbo, Shailesh Chandra – President, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors said, “We are thrilled to celebrate the 1st anniversary of our premium hatchback Altroz with a double bonanza comprising of the i-Turbo petrol and the new XZ+ variant with iRA-connected car technology in petrol and diesel option. Since the launch in January 2020, Altroz has been appreciated for its paramount safety, innovative design and thrilling performance and we are delighted to share that with its introduction, in FY 21, our market share in the hatchback category has increased by 5.4% compared to last fiscal and we have captured 17% market share in the premium hatch segment. We are confident that the new Altroz range will cater to the evolving needs of the Indian customer, all while creating benchmarks in the segment.”

Powered by the 1.2-litre turbocharged BS6 petrol engine, the Altroz i-Turbo is launched in a new Harbour Blue colour, which is available on variants from XM+. With power of 110 PS @ 5500 rpm, Altroz i-Turbo provides a torque of 140 Nm @1500- 5500 rpm which ensures an enjoyable drive experience. Adding to that, the Sport/City Multi Drive Modes provide the Altroz a perfect combination of thrill and city driving. Altroz in its 2021 avatar will also sport the new black and light grey dual colour interiors accentuated with perforated leatherette seats to enhance its premium quotient.

Furthermore, the Xpress cool feature, personalized screen wallpaper, one shot up power windows, all added to ensure utmost convenience along with the 8 speaker sound system by Harman for an enjoyable surround sound experience, adds to the entire package making it a car that all will desire.

Variants	Fuel	Ex-showroom price
XZ+  Revotron	Petrol	825500
XZ+  Revotorq	Diesel	945500
XT i-Turbo	Petrol	773500
XZ i-Turbo	Petrol	845500
XZ+ i-Turbo	Petrol	885500

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set the goal to achieve carbon neutrality across the company’s operations and the life cycle of its products by 2050. As part of this effort, by the early 2030s every all-new Nissan vehicle offering in key markets will be electrified.

Nissan will pursue further innovations in electrification and manufacturing technology to make progress on the company’s carbon neutrality goal in the following strategic areas:

· Battery innovations including solid-state and related technologies to develop cost-competitive and more efficient electric vehicles;

· Further development of Nissan’s e-POWER electrified powertrains to achieve greater energy efficiency;

· Development of a battery ecosystem to support decentralized, onsite power generation for buildings with renewable energy sources. Nissan anticipates increased collaboration with the energy sector to support the decarbonization of power grids;

· Manufacturing process innovations to support higher productivity in vehicle assembly, starting with the Nissan Intelligent Factory initiative. The company will also strive for greater energy and material efficiencies to support longer-term carbon neutrality ambitions.

“We’re determined to help create a carbon neutral society and accelerate the global effort against climate change,” said Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida. “Our offering in electrified vehicles will continue to expand around the world, and this will make a major contribution to Nissan becoming carbon neutral. We will continue to drive innovation that enriches people’s lives as we pursue a sustainable future for all.”

Nissan’s goal builds on its decades-long programs to reduce emissions and provide electric vehicle technologies that benefit the environment and society. The company’s electrification and emissions reduction efforts support the aims of the U.N. Paris Agreement on climate change and global progress toward carbon neutrality by 2050.

Nissan’s ambition also expands upon past initiatives under the Nissan Green Program and the company’s ongoing work to minimize the carbon footprint of its products and operations. The company introduced the world’s first mass-market electric car, the Nissan LEAF, and has sold more than 500,000 of the zero-emission vehicle to date. Nissan also continues to work with industry coalitions and authorities to develop infrastructure and raise public awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles.

With 100% of all-new vehicle offerings to be electrified in the key markets of Japan, China, the U.S. and Europe by the early 2030s, Nissan will also be among the leaders in driving the adoption of electric vehicle technology.

Nissan believes the automotive industry can be a driving force in meeting global environmental and climate needs through a commitment to innovation and impact reduction by collaborating with authorities and partners worldwide. When combined with the expansion of renewable energy and charging infrastructure, vehicle electrification and sustainable operations can help accelerate the arrival of a carbon neutral future.

Citroën in India, has started the commercial production and rolled out the first Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, from its manufacturing facility in Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. The flagship SUV is the first product from the Citroën brand for Indian customers and is slated to be launched in this quarter. The start of production of the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV in India has started after rigorous testing of the vehicle for over 2.5 lakh kilometres in different terrains and varied weather conditions across India.

Commenting on this milestone, Emmanuel Delay, Executive Vice President, Stellantis & Chairman, PCA Automobile India Pvt Ltd & PSA AVTEC Powertrain Pvt Ltd., said, “We are excited to officially rollout the first Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, which will be the first of many differentiating products for India from the brand. There is lot of market anticipation for the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, which will set a benchmark in style, comfort and innovation in its segment in India. I would like to congratulate all our employees at the plants who have worked tirelessly to achieve this key milestone despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic. We are looking forward to welcoming the customers to the La Maison Citroën dealership network, which means ‘the home of Citroën’ in a few weeks from now, across key cities of India.”

Tata Motors has formally unveiled the new avatar of the iconic Tata Safari. In a flag-off ceremony held today, the first Safari rolled out of the line from the plant in Pune. While the Safari makes its way to the showrooms, leveraging the power of digital, Tata Motors has also launched the Tata Safari Imaginator suite, power packed with interactive features using Augmented Reality (AR), for customers to explore the Safari virtually at their preferred location including their living room!

The Impact 2.0 design language of the new Safari readily tells its all-purpose nature. The Safari’s unique and domineering stance has been enhanced in the new avatar and key areas like the elegant grille, the unmistakable stepped roof and the imposing tailgate have been given ultra – premium finishes. Sculpted impeccably with an uncompromised strong stance, imposing wheel arches and a careful accenting of chrome gives the new Safari a jewel-like appearance. The interior of the Safari takes the premium element even higher, with the rich Oyster White interior theme, paired with Ash Wood dashboard. It is specially designed and developed for the socially active, fun loving customer group, who seek unique experiences and adventure.

Unveiling the first official look of the new Tata Safari, Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD, Tata Motors said, “The Safari is our flagship offering to connect the aspirations of the discerning and evolved Indian customer. It had introduced India to the SUV lifestyle and in its new avatar, will carry forward this rich idea to build further its legacy. The new Tata Safari is ideal for families and groups with a multifaceted lifestyle, who prefer to drive together for work or leisure, as it offers an unmatchable combo of an exceptionally strong lineage, robust build quality, premium finishes and the 4Ps of Power, Performance, Presence and Prestige to ‘Reclaim Your Life’. We look forward to making the Safari rule the Indian roads once again.”

The new Safari has evolved to satisfy the new age SUV customers, who demand arresting design, unparalleled versatility, plush and comfortable interiors, outstanding performance for a modern, multifaceted lifestyle. Customers can now get close with the new Safari by remotely accessing the Tata Safari Imaginator suite. Simply by using their handsets, they can take a walk around the new Safari or choose to step inside it for a fully immersive experience, in their preferred environment for a real-life like feel.

The new Safari proportions are imposing, accentuated by wide, large wheels, with tremendous road presence and powered with a graceful agility. The smart and expressive surface treatment brings in a surreal dynamism, making the Safari seem like it is moving even while standing still. The iconic stepped roof, held between the equally well regarded roof-rails have been re-imagined making them immensely stylish and yet functional.

The interiors of the new Safari too have been crafted with exquisite deft to convey a classy, comfortable feel via diligently curated choice of features, superior ‘In-touch’ interfaces and the intriguing addition of superlative details. All materials used convey the touch, feel and colour of luxury anchored in authenticity, giving the SUV its deserving plush feel. The new Safari carry forwards the legend’s much lauded for aspect of space and cossetting occupants with high driving and sitting positions that make them always feel in command. With purposeful aesthetics, the surface language of the new Safari continues to remain clean, uncluttered and benefits from the addition of a unique design element – the signature Tri-arrow motifs.

The new Safari further builds on the legacy by combining Tata Motors’ Impact 2.0 design language with the proven capability of OMEGARC, an architecture derived from the renowned D8 platform from Land Rover, which in itself is the gold standard of SUVs worldwide. This adaptive architecture allows for further drive train enhancements including all-wheel drive and possibilities of electrification in future.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars delivered a strong performance in a very difficult environment last year to register a new-car market share of 9.09 per cent, according to SMMT data – an increase of 0.4 per cent over 2019. The introduction in March of the new Golf 8 proved a significant contributor to these results, as did the ID.3 which, despite launching in September, became one of the top-selling BEVs of the year.

SUVs performed particularly strongly for the company, with Volkswagen ranked as one of the best-selling SUV brands in 2020. This was thanks in part to the introduction of new trims levels for the Touareg SUV at the start of 2020, including the popular Black Edition, while the continued popularity of the T-Roc and T-Cross, as well as the recent introduction of the revised Tiguan, also played a major role in the brand’s success within the segment.

However, it was the hatchback segment that still proved most popular with Volkswagen customers. The Golf was the third most popular car of the year and the best-seller in its class, driven by the launch of the eighth-generation model with its choice of petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Also key to this success was the Polo, finishing the year as the eighth best-seller. Another important model of note was the all-electric ID.3, which took off from a standing start at the end of September to considerable success in just one quarter, finishing December as the fourth best-selling model overall during the month.

Comfort is an inherent part of everyday life and the same has been revealed in a new research commissioned by Citroën India on where and how Indians seek comfort. Citroën India’s ‘Comfortology’ research revealed some fascinating insights to Indians’ comfort levels at varied stages, with larger weightage to mobility. The findings also reveals impact of pandemic on people’s perception and definition of comfort. The research was conducted across 10 cities in India with total of 1801 respondents from diverse ages and genders.

One of the key data, which shows inextricable link between comfort and travel, particularly by road, and Indians’ experience of the same includes:

• 19 per cent of respondents described their drive to work as ‘the most uncomfortable hour of their day’ because of pot-holes and jerks, etc.

• 29 per cent of respondents admitted that the drive to work is so full of noises / honking from outside, that they can barely concentrate on anything

• 16 per cent of respondents try to call up their friends and try to catch up; but it is very difficult and uncomfortable because of traffic disturbances

• 49 per cent Indians experience back ache, neck ache and other physical strains, while driving

Roland Bouchara, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Citroën India, highlights the objective and a key finding from the research, “Comfort – or its absence – represents a defining element of the driving experience; it is also a key consideration for road users and vehicle purchasers. This research provides unique insight into how and where Indians seek comfort, with respect to the daily lives, but also with respect to how they travel. Initial findings, for instance, demonstrate the profound impact the pandemic has had on people’s sense and definition of comfort; 25% respondents would have been most comfortable in a private car for short journeys (up to 3km) prior to the pandemic, a figure that has risen to 34% today. Preference for shared/public transport (buses/trains)) has declined from 28% to just 12% in the same period.”

In the automotive world, the aspect of the Citroën comfort philosophy encapsulates the ideas of practicality and versatility to make driving and travel easier. The easier a car is to live with every day, the more enjoyable and comfortable it will be to own. For Citroën, functional comfort applies to the combination of highly ergonomic, easy-to-use cabin designs with technology that is intuitive and easy to operate.

In the wider automotive sector, technology continues to take on greater prominence in cars; in some cases, to the detriment of user-friendliness. By contrast, Citroën has sought to apply new technology in such a way as to make its cars easier to use, with functionality enhancing comfort. The development of cars that offer maximum ‘living comfort’ is a thread that span’s Citroën’s entire history.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV in India, Roland Bouchara reinforced the brand’s link and commitment to comfort and explained that comfort – in all its forms – represented a core value of the brand. “Since 1919, Citroën has been at the forefront of automotive comfort, from the revolutionary ‘Moteur Flottant’ [floating engine] to the innovative Suspension with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions®. Citroën’s benchmark in comfort is reflected in the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, aimed at bringing unprecedented comfort to every passenger. For us, comfort is a principle consideration for the entire driving experience. Our designs and features aim to reduce the mental load on the driver, combining clever driver aids with light, spacious cabin formats. All these elements translate into a stress-free travelling environment, innovative solutions and smart technology dedicated to ensuring the well-being of body and mind for all passengers.”

Citroën India’s ‘Comfortology’ research also revealed some fascinating differences between Indians’ comfort levels; nearly a quarter (23 per cent) find working from home (WFM) ‘extremely comfortable’, while a similar proportion (22 per cent) describe it as quite the opposite (‘extremely uncomfortable’).

In terms of gender, women appeared more comfortable managing the demands of work and home life during confinement than their male counterparts; two thirds (66%) of female respondents were ‘comfortable’ or ‘extremely comfortable’ juggling both responsibilities during COVID-19, compared to just 49 per cent of men.

The findings were published in advance of a detailed report examining the changing nature and sources of comfort in India being published by Citroën India.

Citroën India’s ‘Comfortology’ report will be published, in full, in January 2021

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the new Toyota Fortuner and new Legender. The Fortuner has been an aspirational SUV for more than a decade now and continues to dominate the segment with over 53 per cent segment share, even today.

The new Fortuner is available in 2.8-litre diesel engine with 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmission with intelligent manual transmission options and 2.7-litre petrol engine in 6-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmission. The Fortuner automatic transmission variants produces 204 PS of power and 500 Nm of torque while manual transmission variants generate 204 PS of power and 420 Nm Torque.

The new Fortuner boasts of new exterior features like a tougher-looking new front grille, sculpted side-pontoon shaped bumper thus amplifying commanding presence. New headlamp design with distinctive sharp LED line guide, Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) and multi-axis spoke alloy wheels with chrome metallic finishing giving a premium look.

For the interior, superior suction based seat ventilation system (front row) and a larger smart playcast touchscreen audio with Android Auto/Apple Carplay and a JBL 11 speaker w/ subwoofer system (4X4 variants only) are some of the key changes.

For added driving comfort and convenience, the new Fortuner comes with Auto Limited Slip Differential (Auto-LSD) that enables maximum power without breaking traction, Variable Flow Control (VFC) power steering that allows customers to dynamically change steering dynamics with drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) and front clearance sonar to safely navigate when parking in tight spaces.

The 4X4 (AT and MT) variants further enhance their off-road credentials with a lockable differential as an additional feature to ensure firm footing when navigating in extreme terrains.

The new Fortuner will be available in existing colours of Phantom Brown, Super White, Attitude Black, Avant-Garde Bronze, Grey Metallic, Silver Metallic, Pearl White Crystal Shine and a new color of Sparkling Black Crystal Shine.

On the occasion, TKM also unveiled the Legender. Its bold proportions demonstrate the clear differentiation that makes it cooler and futuristic. The Catamaran elements that wrap the corners creates a strong vertical prominence and ensure a wider presence. Further, an exclusive headlamp design has been crafted for the Legender – split quad LEDs with a waterfall LED line guide signature that will ensure the best of brightness. The sharp nose creates a strong forward movement; to create a sense of exclusivity with a sleek and cool theme, the Legender comes with exterior features such as Catamaran style front and rear bumpers sharp, and sleek front grille with piano black accents, sequential turn indicators and 18-inch multi-layered machine-cut finished alloy wheels.

In the Legender, the interior features include dual tone (black + maroon) interior theme, contrast stitching for steering wheel and console box, interior ambient illumination (I/P, front door trim, front foot-well areas) and rear USB ports. Apart from these, the Legender is loaded with premium features like kick sensor for power back door and wireless smartphone charger. The Legender is available only in exciting colour of Pearl White with Black roof (dual tone).

Sharing his views on the launch of the new Fortuner, Yoshiki Konishi, Chief Engineer, Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “The new Fortuner is born out of our understanding of the customer feedback. The idea was to enhance the toughness of the vehicle and give it a powerful presence and distinctiveness like no other. Our enhancements were more than just skin deep; we have also upgraded the engine by introducing a new heavy-duty Turbo, designed for powerful performance, and improved frictional efficiency. As a result, the Fortuner Automatic now puts out 500Nm of torque, making it the best in the segment. For the Legender, we have brought in a sense of exclusivity in the design language and style. The bold proportions and advanced features make it look cooler and modernized, giving it a true premium stance and outlook. We are confident customers will appreciate the tweaks we have introduced specifically for the Indian market.”

Commenting on the launch, Masakazu Yoshimura, Managing Director, TKM said, “For more than a decade, the Fortuner has proven itself to be the most dependable SUV becoming the top-most choice for customers across every corner of the country. The Fortuner witnessed demand despite the effects of the pandemic on the economy. Therefore, it gives me great pride to introduce the new Fortuner and new Legender to the ever-growing base of loyal customers in India. I am confident the new Fortuner and exclusive new Legender with their bold styling, advanced features and rugged frame structure will offer value, versatility and superiority attracting many existing customers to upgrade while bringing in new set of customers to the Toyota family.”

Talking about his views, Naveen Soni, Senior Vice President, TKM, said, “We are delighted to bring the all new Fortuner and New Legender to our customers in India. The Fortuner lineup together with the Legender reflect the growing aspirations of our customers who seek the best in style, comfort, and performance. Following our customer-first approach, we have tried to not just meet these aspirations but also surpass them by introducing the new Fortuner and the Legender. A key addition to the new Fortuner & Legender is connected technology that enables features like Geo-fencing, Real-time tracking, last parked location for peace of mind. The infotainment system also comes with Android Auto/Apple Carplay connectivity to provide more convenience. We are sure that the customers will enjoy the new features and continue to put their faith in India’s most admired SUV. We are anticipating great demand for our new offerings across all major Tier I, II and III markets in the country.”

Bookings for the new Fortuner and exclusive New Legender are now open.

Tata Motors has announced that it is bringing back its iconic brand ‘Safari’ with its forthcoming flagship SUV, (codenamed as the Gravitas).

Announcing the formal branding of its forthcoming SUV as the ‘Tata Safari’, Shailesh Chandra – President, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit (PVBU), Tata Motors, said, “We are proud and elated to re-introduce our flagship SUV–Safari. The Safari, an iconic brand with a strong following, has been the most sought after SUV on Indian roads for well over two decades. In its new avatar, the Safari will appeal to the socially active, fun loving customers who seek out unique experiences and adventure. Its design, performance, versatility, features, and long lasting build quality, reinforce the SUV lifestyle to provide unending pleasure. We are confident that the launch of the Safari will once again re-energise the market, amplifying its cult status.”

The Safari further builds on the Impact 2.0 design language with the proven capability of OMEGARC, an architecture derived from the renowned D8 platform from Land Rover, which in itself is the gold standard of SUVs worldwide. This adaptive architecture allows for further drive train enhancements including all-wheel drive and possibilities of electrification in future.

Arriving in showrooms this January, booking for the new Safari will begin shortly. Stay tuned for more details.