Many of the UK’s most talented craftspeople and engineers put the finishing touches to the first in a new but very familiar series of Aston Martin sports cars, as the first customer car in the DB5 Goldfinger Continuation programme left the production line last week.

The ‘Job 1’ DB5 represents not only another significant design and engineering success, but also becomes the first new DB5 to be built by Aston Martin in more than half a century as the British luxury sports car maker’s Continuation programme once again makes history.

Dubbed ‘the most famous car in the world’ and renowned as being among the most desirable and sought-after classic Aston Martin models, the DB5 has become a byword for timeless style and sports car desirability. Fewer than 900 saloon examples were built between 1963 and 1965, with by far the most famous of the original owners being the world’s best-known secret agent – James Bond – who first drove the car that is today inextricably linked with him in the 1964 film, Goldfinger.

Now, 55 years after the last new DB5 rolled elegantly off the production line at Aston Martin’s then global manufacturing base in Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, work is ongoing there on a strictly limited number of new DB5 models.

Created in association with Bond filmmaker EON Productions, and featuring a broad suite of working gadgets first seen in the film, the Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation cars really are history in the making. The new cars include an array of functioning devices created by Bond film special effects supervisor Chris Corbould OBE.

The list of Bond-inspired gadgets includes:

Exterior:

Rear smoke screen delivery system
Rear simulated oil slick delivery system
Revolving number plates front and rear (triple plates)
Simulated twin front machine guns
Bullet resistant rear shield
Battering rams front and rear
Simulated tyre slasher
Removable passenger seat roof panel (optional equipment)

Interior:

Simulated radar screen tracker map
Telephone in driver’s door
Gear knob actuator button
Armrest and centre console-mounted switchgear
Under-seat hidden weapons/storage tray
Remote control for gadget activation
Each of the 25 new cars are meticulously detailed authentic reproductions of the DB5 seen on screen, with some sympathetic modifications and enhancements to ensure the highest levels of build quality and reliability. All the Goldfinger edition cars are being built to one exterior colour specification – Silver Birch paint – just like the original.

The cars feature original DB5 styled aluminium exterior body panels cloaking an authentic DB5 mild steel chassis structure. Under the bonnet there’s a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated inline six-cylinder engine with a six-plug head, three SU carburettors and oil cooler, that’s capable of generating in the order of 290 bhp. This is mated to a five-speed ZF manual transmission in the rear-wheel drive DB5, which also features a mechanical limited slip differential.

Servo-assisted hydraulic Girling-type steel disc brakes, rack and pinion steering – which does not feature assistance – and a suspension set-up comprising coil over spring and damper units with anti-roll bar at the front, and a live axle rear suspension with radius arms and Watt’s linkage, complete the dynamic package.

Scores of world-class Aston Martin craftsmen and women, technicians, development engineers and designers have been involved in the project, working carefully with a suite of handpicked suppliers from across the world and ensuring that each new DB5 matches not only the aspirations of its owner, but also the duty to the brand’s proud 107-year heritage.

Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “The DB5 is, without question, the most famous car in the world by virtue of its 50-plus year association with James Bond. To see, the first customer car finished, and realise that this is the first new DB5 we have built in more than half a century, really is quite a moment.

“It is a genuine privilege, and significant responsibility, to have been involved in the shaping of this new DB5 and to be helping to lead the creation of new versions of this automotive icon. I’m absolutely certain that the 25 lucky owners who are beginning to take delivery of these cars will be thrilled with them.”

First deliveries of the DB5 Goldfinger Continuation to customers have commenced and will continue through the second half of 2020.

Nissan India today revealed glimpses of the headlights and grill of its new B-SUV concept. For the first time, the B-SUV concept will be showcased to the world on July 16, 2020 at the global headquarters.

The company’s first Compact B-SUV for the Indian market reflects Nissan’s philosophy aimed at empowering people through breakthrough products and technologies. The compact B-SUV is scheduled to be introduced in the second half of FY 2020-21.

Building on Nissan’s global SUV heritage and advanced technology, the New Compact SUV is designed for tomorrow’s journey as a feature-rich premium offering with stylish design for a strong and dynamic road presence. Nissan’s new SUV features the latest technology as a part of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision as to how vehicles are powered, driven and integrated into society.

The B-SUV is a testimony to Nissan’s Global SUV DNA and Japanese engineering, building on Nissan’s iconic models such as the Patrol, Pathfinder, Armada, X-Trail, Juke, Qashqai and KICKS.

BMW Group announced the introduction of its new brand and corporate identity for online and offline communications in India. The BMW, BMW i and BMW M communication logos have been completely reworked, with a new logotype and new design principles. The BMW brand now delivers on the expectations and visual style of today and is better suited for the digital age. #JustCantWait is the first communication campaign in India to reflect the new brand design.

In the current challenging market scenario BMW Group India has transformed all facets of its businesses leveraging new age digital technologies to better serve its customers at the comfort of their home.

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “BMW has always cherished its relationship with its esteemed customers and has introduced innovative products and value-added services. The new brand design and logo stands for openness and clarity. It symbolizes the brand’s significance and relevance for mobility and driving pleasure in the future. BMW Group India is geared-up to the challenges and opportunities of digitalisation. We have seamlessly transformed ourselves to better serve our existing and new customers’ needs. With innovative services such as BMW Contactless Experience, BMW Easy Start Plan, BMW Advanced Hygiene Packages and Aftersales service packages we stand true to our promise of offering ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ to our customers at all times. Our latest campaign #JustCantWait uses the new logo and reflects our undeterred commitment to bring Joy to our customers.”

The new design is an expression of the revised brand identity, which places the customer at the centre of all activities. Pared-down and two-dimensional, it conveys openness and clarity. The additional transparent version of the logo is a more open invitation than ever for customers to join the world of BMW. The change reflects BMW’s transition from centring purely on the automotive world to being about technology and connections.

The latest look of the BMW brand is geared towards the challenges and opportunities of digitalisation. The redesigned logotype expresses openness and strength of character to ensure a contemporary, future-proof presence both on and offline.

Every Ford is built to a high standard, which promise to keep you safe, but cannot protect you from unseen viruses or contagions.

As the lockdown restrictions are lifted and cities across India see relaxations on movement, people are gradually bound to get behind the wheel. While it isn’t advisable to step out just yet, do take out time to take necessary precautions by cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting your car to ensure all around safety before hitting the road.

Knowing the Difference

Cleaning physically removes germs with soap and water but does not kill them. Sanitising lowers the number of germs and kills bacteria, and thus the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting uses chemicals to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi, further complementing the cleaning and sanitising.

What to Use

Be sure to choose a disinfecting spray safe for your vehicle’s interior. Household cleaning products contain ingredients like bleach, acetone, chlorine, and ammonia, which will damage the interior materials and paint of your vehicle. To take disinfecting your vehicle to the next level, purchase a disinfectant germ fogger.

How to Use
When cleaning using detailing products, do not spray directly onto surfaces like the dashboard. Spray products into a microfibre towel and then apply to the surface. While you’re at it, take the dirt from fabric seats and headliner with a quick vacuum. If you have access to a wet vacuum with shampoo it will garner better results. And don’t forget a quick wash of regularly-touched exterior surfaces, specifically door handles.

What About Leather?
Try the product of your choice – again, free of harmful ingredients like bleach, acetone, chlorine, and ammonia – at the rear portion of the steering wheel and wait for its effects to materialise. If there is no stain, or any discoloration on the leather you can continue using the product. Much like using the detailing products, DO NOT spray onto the surface, but spray into a clean micro-fibre towel and gently apply the product.

Disinfecting
You’re now ready to disinfectyour vehicle. Hard surfaces like plastic buttons and knobs can be wiped down with a bleach-free disinfectant wipe or apply your disinfecting spray onto a microfibre cloth. Given how often you probably interact with your infotainment screen, be it an infotainment touchscreen or otherwise, opt for an electronic-specific non-toxic device-cleaning wipe.

Where to Use
This list might seem extensive, but it’s by no means comprehensive. Anything you find yourself touching throughout your day should be wiped down, and a solid place to start is to think of the first thing you touch as you approach your Ford, to the last thing you touch before getting out.

1. Key/Key FOB
2. Exterior Door Handle
3. Interior Door Handle
4. Lock and Unlock Buttons and Interior Door Release
5. Seatbelt and Seatbelt Buckle. Also include the release button
6. Push-to-Start Button, or Ignition Area
7. Rearview Mirror, and Automatic Side Mirror Buttons
8. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) Buttons
9. Radio Buttons and Knobs or Infotainment Touchscreen
10. Gear Selector
11. Parking Brake Lever
12. Steering Wheel and Wheel Mounted Buttons
13. Signal and Wiper Stalk
14. Headlights Knob
15. Centre Console and Cup Holders

Other areas to disinfect

• Window Buttons
• Terrain Management System (TMS) Rotary Knob
• Glove Compartment Handle
• Tailgate/Hatch Release and Power Close Button
• Power Folding Third Row Buttons
• Fuel Cap

Once you have finished disinfecting the car, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap. In fact, this step-up in personal hygiene is a habit that should be continued even after the Covid-19 pandemic is over.

So, take the time to clean and sanitize your car to get it ready for the post-lockdown world.

After the cancellation of the Qatar GP for the MotoGP class on the last 8th March, and the subsequent postponements of all other events due to the Covid-19 pandemic, FIM and Dorna Sports have announced the new 2020 calendar. The 2020 season will have a duration of four months – if the championship will be held only in Europe – which could be extended to five months if racing overseas will become possible in the latter part of the year.

The first MotoGP race of the 2020 season will be held on Sunday 19th July at the Spanish Circuito de Jerez- Ángel Nieto, which will also host a second GP the following weekend, on 26th July. After that, the calendar will become very challenging, until the completion of the 13 races scheduled in Europe in just four months. The championship could also see the addition of the Americas GP (Austin), Argentina GP (Termas de Rio Hondo), Thai GP (Buriram) and Malaysian (Sepang) GP, which have not been confirmed yet, and that could extend the season until the 13th December, deadline for the completion of 2020 campaign.

CALENDAR

19th July – Spanish GP – Circuit de Jerez- Ángel Nieto
26th July – Andalusian GP – Circuit de Jerez- Ángel Nieto
9th August – Czech Republic GP – Brno Automodrom
16th August – Austrian GP – Red Bull Ring – Spielberg
23rd August – Styria GP – Red Bull Ring – Spielberg
13th September – San Marino and Riviera di Rimini GP – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
20th September – Emilia Romagna and Riviera di Rimini GP – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
27th September – Catalan GP – Barcelona – Catalunya
11th October – French GP – Le Mans
18th October – Aragón GP – MotorLand Aragón
25th October – Teruel GP – MotorLand Aragón
8th November – Europe GP – Comunitat Valenciana – Ricardo Tormo
15th November – Valencia GP – Comunitat Valenciana – Ricardo Tormo
To be confirmed – Americas GP – Circuit of The Americas
To be confirmed – Argentina GP – Termas de Rio Hondo
To be confirmed – Thai GP – Chang International Circuit
To be confirmed – Malaysian GP – Sepang International Circuit

All dates, events that, for now, will be held behind closed doors, will be subject to the evolution of the health situation and the approval of the governments and authorities for each country.

Luigi Dall’Igna (General Manager of Ducati Corse) said, “We are delighted with the work we have done in recent weeks with the other manufacturers involved in the championship, together with FIM, Dorna Sports and IRTA to find solutions that would allow us to return to racing in such a complicated situation. Despite the many difficulties and restrictions that we will have to accept, I think it is very positive news to finally have a calendar that still allows us to race in 2020, albeit in reduced form. During these months of lockdown, we have done all that it was possible to be ready for the start of the championship: the calendar is hectic. It will require a great effort from everyone, not only from the riders but also from all our engineers and mechanics. For this reason, I want to thank all Ducati Corse, and also all our partners and sponsors for the support and understanding shown us during this period.”

Andrea Dovizioso (#04 Ducati Team) commented, “Finally we’ll be back racing! The announcement of the new official calendar allows us to prepare for the return to action with a precise date in mind. I trained a lot during this period, but it was not easy to do so without knowing if and when we could start racing again. It will be a challenging season; everyone will have to manage a new situation. It has never happened before to have two races on following weekends at the same track and we will have to be prepared for this aspect not only physically but also mentally. Besides, having so many races in a short time leaves no room for mistakes, and therefore it will be crucial to know how to handle well the situation. I can’t wait to get back in the saddle of my Desmosedici GP, meet the team again and finally get back into action.”

Danilo Petrucci (#9 Ducati Team) commented, “This, in any case, will be a bizarre season, but having the calendar available, at least allows us to begin to metabolize the new situation. For example, we will race on circuits that we already know at different times of the year: we never raced in Jerez in July, because normally the race is in May, and the different temperature could be decisive. We’re all going to have to adapt, but now what’s important is to have a start date finally. For the greater good, we will also have to commit to complying with the sanitation standards of each country where the races will be held.”

BMW Group India launched the third generation BMW X6 in India. The all-new BMW X6 is available as completely built-up units (CBU) and can be booked at all BMW dealerships.

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “BMW established the SAC segment with the introduction of the BMW X6 and still continues its remarkable success story. The uniqueness of the third generation BMW X6 is born from its modern expressive design which combines athletic and elegant coupe lines with the dynamism of a BMW X model. This vehicle is like no other, to the very last detail, the all-new BMW X6 offers a unique synthesis of luxury, sporting dynamics and powerful style creating an excitingly different driving experience for our customers. From the coupe-like roofline to the chiseled profile, this Sports Activity Coupe is marked by extraordinary craftsmanship and sends a message of power and prestige. The extrovert design, impressive dynamism and agility makes the all-new BMW X6 the most attractive and distinctive car in its segment.”

The all-new BMW X6 offers customizable options to customers for the very first time. A range of optional features include BMW Laser Light, BMW Head-Up Display, Comfort Access, Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge, Crafted Clarity Glass Application, and Ambient Air Package. Customers can enhance the level of entertainment and enjoy their drive all the way with the options of Rear Seat Entertainment Professional and Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. Additional equipment such as 21-inch light alloy wheels, distinct paint jobs and trim options makes the all-new model look your own.

The all-new BMW X6 is available in two variants – the xLine and M Sport. Each variant has distinguished exterior and interior design cues that lend an individual personality to the car. xLine highlights the robustness of the new Sports Activity Coupe and the extrovert character enhancing the car’s off-road looks. M Sport brings a strikingly dynamic design angle offering a commanding presence and distinguishing itself as an elite sports model.

An extensive selection of standard and optional features mark out the all-new BMW X6 as an innovative Sports Activity Coupe. The interplay of advanced powertrain and chassis technology along with impressive equipment features deliver a uniquely sporting yet very comfortable driving experience.

The all-new BMW X6 ex-showroom prices are as follows –

BMW X6 xDrive40i xLine (petrol)                        :          INR 95,00,000

BMW X6 xDrive40i M Sport (petrol)                  :          INR 95,00,000

Datsun has announced the launch of the new redi-GO in India with ex-showroom prices starting at Rs 2.83 lakhs.

Commenting on the launch, Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “With the new Datsun redi-GO, we have introduced a high-quality product with a strong value proposition. Built with Japanese technology, the new redi-GO offers segment-leading technological features that cater to growing ambitions of young India. We aim to enhance the value propositions of Datsun products in line with our mission of enabling progressive mobility.”

The new redi-GO features a stylish fascia with full chrome surround. Other exterior features like L-shape DRLs, sleek headlamps with silver decoration, LED fog lamps, 14-inch wheels with Pentablade Dual Tone Wheel cover, LED signature tail-lamps, and door trim with fabric add to the visual appeal.

The hatchback offers a ground clearance of 187mm which is pretty impressive for its segment. The carmaker claims that the rear knee room comfort is equivalent to that of a compact sedan.

On the convenience front, the new redi-GO is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen advanced infotainment system with voice recognition, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Onboard is also a dual-tone instrument panel with a premium brushed gunmetal finish.

When it comes to safety, the automaker has equipped with redi-GO with a strong crash-resistant body structure that protects passengers from frontal offset impact and side impact in an unfortunate incident of a collision. Pedestrian protection compliant, rear seat belt with retractive function, dual airbags and a rear view camera with projection guide round up the other important safety features.

The new redi-GO is available in six variants. These include four 0.8L Manual Transmission variants – D, A, T, and T(O), and two 1.0L variants – Manual Transmission and Smart Drive Auto (AMT) T(O).

The new redi-GO retails in six colour option with two new colours – Sandstone Brown and Vivid Blue. Datsun is also providing a two years/unlimited km standard warranty that can be extended for up to five years as a cost option offered at INR 1850. Buyers will also receive a free roadside assistance subscription for two years. The warranty and road side assistance services can be availed in over 1500 cities.

Initiating the next phase of EV revolution in India, Tata Power signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with MG Motor. As part of the association, Tata Power will deploy 50KW DC Superfast chargers at select MG dealership locations and offer end-to-end EV charging solutions to MG dealerships spread across India.

Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power Company Limited, said, “We are delighted to associate with MG Motor India as an end-to-end EV charging partner as also work on second life of battery usage in future. As India’s leading integrated player in the EV charging space, we aim to provide customers a seamless charging experience. We are confident that this partnership with MG Motor will further boost our country’s ability to adopt the range of electric vehicles that MG Motor has to offer.”

Through this association, MG Motor aims to lay a specific focus on the key target cities they will be foraying into as a part of their future EV expansion plans. These superfast 50KW DC chargers will be accessible by both MG ZS EV customers as well as other EV owners whose automobiles are compatible with the CCS/CHAdeMO charging standards.

Speaking on this association, Rajeev Chaba, President & MD, MG Motor India, said, “Further strengthening our commitment to India, we aim to provide our customers with a robust charging ecosystem to promote the adoption of cleaner and greener mobility solutions. With a partner like Tata Power, a renowned major in the field of power & renewable energy, we are confident that we will create a distinct synergy together.:

MG Motor India already has a total of 10 SuperFast 50 kW charging stations across its dealerships in five cities – New Delhi- NCR, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru and Hyderabad – and is expanding them to more cities. Tata Power, on the other hand, has established an elaborate EV Charging ecosystem with 180+ Charging points in 19 different cities under EZ Charge brand along with digital platform to facilitate easy and smooth customer experience. The MG-Tata Power partnership will involve core values and operating model in line with their existing customer-centric approach including exploring the possibility of 2^nd life management of EV batteries.

Every new Volvo car now comes with a limited top speed of 180kmph, as Volvo Cars delivers on its promise made last year to introduce such a limitation and goes beyond regulation and legislation to help close the remaining gap to zero serious injuries and fatalities in traffic.

Apart from the speed cap, every Volvo car will now also come with a Care Key, which allows Volvo drivers to set additional limitations on the car’s top speed, for example before lending their car to other family members or to younger and inexperienced drivers.

Together, the 180kmph speed limitation and Care Key send a strong signal about the dangers of speeding, underlining Volvo Cars position as a worldwide leader in safety. Both features illustrate how car makers can take active responsibility for striving to achieve zero traffic fatalities by supporting better driver behaviour.

“We believe that a car maker has a responsibility to help improve traffic safety,” said Malin Ekholm, Head of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “Our speed limiting technology, and the dialogue that it initiated, fits that thinking. The speed cap and Care Key help people reflect and realise that speeding is dangerous, while also providing extra peace of mind and supporting better driver behaviour.”

The top speed limit has proven to be controversial since it was announced, with some observers questioning the rights of car makers to impose such limitations through available technology.

Yet Volvo Cars believes it has an obligation to continue its tradition of being a pioneer in the discussion around the rights and obligations of car makers to take action that can ultimately save lives, even if this means losing potential customers.

The problem with speeding is that above certain speeds, in-car safety technology and smart infrastructure design are no longer enough to avoid severe injuries and fatalities in the event of an accident.

This is why speed limits are in place in most western countries, yet speeding remains ubiquitous and one of the most common reasons for fatalities in traffic. Millions of people still get speeding tickets every year.

Research shows that on average, people have poor understanding of the dangers around speeding. As a result, many people often drive too fast and have poor speed adaption in relation to the traffic situation.

Apart from speeding, intoxication and distraction are two other primary areas of concern for traffic safety and that constitute the remaining gap towards Volvo Cars’ vision of a future with zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries. It is taking action to address all three elements of human behaviour in its safety work, with more features to be introduced in future cars.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled a four-year plan to achieve sustainable growth, financial stability and profitability by the end of fiscal-year 2023. The scalable plan, involving cost-rationalization and business optimization, will shift the company’s strategy from its past focus on inflated expansion.

As part of the four-year plan, Nissan will take decisive action to transform its business by streamlining unprofitable operations and surplus facilities, alongside structural reforms. The company will also reduce fixed costs by rationalizing its production capacity, global product range and expenses. Through disciplined management, the company will prioritize and invest in business areas expected to deliver a solid recovery and sustainable growth.

By implementing the plan, Nissan aims to achieve a 5 per cent operating profit margin and a sustainable global market share of 6 per cent by the end of fiscal year 2023, including proportionate contributions from its 50 per cent equity joint venture in China.

Makoto Uchida, Nissan chief executive officer, said: “Our transformation plan aims to ensure steady growth instead of excessive sales expansion. We will now concentrate on our core competencies and enhancing the quality of our business, while maintaining financial discipline and focusing on net revenue per unit to achieve profitability. This
coincides with the restoration of a culture defined by “Nissan-ness” for a new era.”

The four-year plan is focused on two strategic areas, building on Nissan’s reputation for innovation, craftsmanship, customer-focus and quality, alongside an ongoing cultural transformation:

1) Rationalization: robust actions to restructure, reduce costs and improve efficiency

Actions:

• Right-sizing Nissan’s production capacity by 20% to 5.4 million units a year under the assumption of a standard shift operation
• Achieving plant utilization rate above 80%, making operations more profitable
• Rationalizing the global product line-up by 20% (from 69 to fewer than 55 models)
• Reducing fixed costs by approximately 300 billion yen
• Intend to close Barcelona plant in Western Europe
• Consolidating North American production around core models
• Closure of manufacturing facility in Indonesia and concentrating on Thailand plant as single production base in ASEAN
• Alliance partners to share resources, including production, models, and technologies

2) Prioritizing core markets and core products

Actions:
• Focusing Nissan’s core operations in the markets of Japan, China and North America
• Leveraging the Alliance assets to maintain Nissan’s business at appropriate operational level in South America, ASEAN and Europe
• Exiting South Korea, the Datsun business in Russia and streamlining operations in some markets in ASEAN
• Focusing on global core model segments including enhanced C and D segment vehicles, electric vehicles, sport cars
• Introduce 12 models in the next 18 months

• Expanding presence in EVs and electric-motor-driven cars, including e-POWER, with more than 1 million electrified sales units expected a year by end of FY23,
• In Japan, launching two more electric vehicles and four more e-POWER vehicles, increasing electrification ratio to 60% of sales
• Introducing ProPILOT advanced driver assistance system in more than 20 models in 20 markets, targeting more than 1.5 million units to be equipped with this system per year by the end of FY23.

Uchida concluded: “Nissan must deliver value for customers around the world. To do this, we must make breakthroughs in the products, technologies and markets where we are competitive. This is Nissan’s DNA. In this new era, Nissan remains people-focused, to deliver technologies for all people and to continue addressing challenges as only
Nissan can.”