The first production Jaguar D-Type, one of history’s most prominent race cars, is set to star at the 2019 Concours of Elegance. Chassis XKD 509 is widely known as one of the most original D-Types in the world, with significant road and racing history, and will join the 15th E-Type FHC ever built in a line-up of the world’s rarest and most significant cars.

The 3.4-litre straight-six powered 1950s racer is possibly the most original D-Type in existence. It has kept its matching-numbers engine, gearbox and chassis, including the front subframe and monocoque centre-section. Its 1970s black body respray is still very much in its original condition, but was applied to the car to replace one of the most iconic in-period American racing liveries. While under the ownership of Lu Brero Sr, Chassis XKD 509 sported a wonderful matte dark blue on white colour-scheme with five unique vertical stripes down the length of the car. It was privately raced at tracks all over the globe, achieving podium spots and victories at a number of world-class motoring events.

The first production Jaguar D-Type will take pride-of-place in the palace gardens alongside the 15th E-Type FHC ever built. One of six E-Types displayed at the 1961 Scottish Motor Show, this particular example of the iconic British sportscar has played an incredibly significant role in the history of one of the country’s most renowned automotive manufacturers.

Having moved into private ownership in 1976, it was dismantled some twenty years ago with the intention of having it fully-restored, but E-Type #15 was left in pieces until it was purchased in 2013. After a 3,000-hour restoration by Classic Motor Cars, retaining the majority of its original parts, it’s now perfectly finished in its original colour of Pearl Grey – the only 1961 E-Type to be painted in this shade.

Both of these cars, the genesis of Jaguar’s sports car legend, will be joined by a collection of around 50 other historic Jaguar models at Concours of Elegance for the fifth annual Jaguar Trophy. Members of the Jaguar Drivers, E-Type and XK Clubs are set to bring along their pride and joy to the palace to be assessed by our esteemed panel of judges, before the winner is crowned on the live stage.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said: “This year’s Concours of Elegance is a real occasion for fans not just of Jaguar but of historic British cars in general. Alongside this gathering of some of the most significant Jaguar cars ever built, we’ve got a display of one of each of the 19 Aston Martin Zagato models built, a collection of the most important Bentleys ever – including the first car to win at Le Mans back-to-back – and a whole host of other icons from the likes of Rolls-Royce, Lotus and McLaren.”

Dr. Hans-Christian Baertels, President (act.), BMW Group India with the new BMW 7 Series

The 2019 BMW 7 Series was launched in India. The facelifted BMW 7 Series is locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai. It is available in diesel and petrol variants and can be ordered at BMW dealerships effective immediately.

For the first time in India, the new BMW 7 Series is also available in a plug-in-hybrid option – the BMW 745Le xDrive – combining benefits of an electric motor and a petrol engine into an extraordinary driving experience.

Dr. Hans-Christian Baertels, President (act.), BMW Group India said, “The BMW 7 Series is our ‘flagship’ – a car that takes the story of luxury forward into the future. The 2019 BMW 7 Series is a completely new car, be it in terms of design, the level of luxury or its advanced technological offerings. A grand imposing presence, opulent interior, unparalleled comfort and superlative performance – the new BMW 7 Series is a place where technology becomes emotion. As the epitome, it represents the best BMW has to offer. Symbolizing BMW’s pioneering lead in future mobility, the ‘7’ is also being introduced as a plug-in-hybrid variant in India for the first time, along with a range of powerful petrol and diesel engines. We are confident that the new BMW 7 Series will comfortably surpasses all expectations.”

The BMW 7 Series portrays the unique strengths of ‘X’, ‘M’ and ‘i’. ‘xDrive’ takes the quintessential luxury of the BMW 7 Series to a new terrain with an all-wheel drive. With ‘M Performance’, the car reaches new dimensions of power and speed. Leading the way to a sustainable future is the environment-friendly plug-in-hybrid technology of ‘iPerformance’.

The new BMW 7 Series is available in BMW 730Ld (diesel) and BMW 740Li (petrol) variants which are locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai. The BMW M760Li xDrive (petrol) and the BMW 745Le xDrive (plug-in-hybrid) are available as completely built-up units (CBU). They can be further personalized with optional equipment and bespoke customizations from BMW Individual.

The ex-showroom prices are as follows:

BMW 730Ld Design Pure Excellence – Rs 1,22,40,000

BMW 730Ld Design Pure Excellence Signature – Rs 1,31,50,000

BMW 730Ld M Sport – Rs 1,34,60,000

BMW 740Li Design Pure Excellence – Rs 1,34,60,000

BMW 745Le xDrive (CBU) – Rs 1,65,00,000

BMW M760Li xDrive (CBU) – Rs 2,42,50,000

The Design Pure Excellence package sets brilliant accents. Chrome high-gloss elements in exterior and other interior finishes underline the contemporary, luxurious and aesthetic character with unique craftsmanship. In M Sport, a distinctive sporty exterior and powerful engine produce an adrenalin-rich combination to set the hearts of motorsport fans pounding.

The new design of the BMW 7 Series is clearer, more modern and more emotional. Visually, the 7 makes a clear statement with an imposing presence, created by the distinctive front and rear design. The front is uniquely impressive thanks to the enlarged double kidney grille. The super-slender headlight design adds a new strand to the character of BMW’s luxury-class models. Adaptive LED headlights with BMW laser light technology enhance the commanding look. Due to reduction of lines, the body looks more powerful, refined and luscious without losing its sportiness. Elegance of the side view is emphasized by the coupe-like roof line and a chrome trim at the bottom. The rear is extremely wide and is dominated by powerful horizontal lines. A thin light strip positioned below the chrome band stretches across the entire width seamlessly connecting the tail lights. This gives the vehicle a highly distinctive and modern appearance.

Interior of the new BMW 7 Series is a living space that arouses emotions. An extremely luxurious and relaxing atmosphere awaits to indulge all senses. Generous levels of space, bespoke leather upholstery and trims, improved sound insulation, ambient lighting, ambient air package, panoramic glass roof sky lounge with LED light graphics are few among the long list of features that create the perfect ambiance. The Executive Lounge appointments maximize comfort with four-zone automatic climate control, electrically adjustable comfort seats, massage function and active seat ventilation.

Rear-seat Entertainment Professional allows users to access the entertainment and navigation functions from the rear seats. It now comprises two 10.2 inch full-HDtouch displays with a Blu-ray player. BMW Touch Command, the innovative system, offers a fully integrated control option for entertainment and comfort functions for the rear. The 7 inch tablet with touch function, which is integrated into the centre armrest and connected to the vehicle systems, can also be used outside the vehicle.

In the BMW 745Le xDrive plug-in hybrid variant, the electric drive is powered by a new lithium-ion battery with latest battery cell technology and increased capacity, producing 108 hp (110 PS) and a maximum torque of 265 Nm. The BMW TwinPower Turbo three-litre six-cylinder petrol engine produces an output of 286 hp (290 PS) and a maximum torque of 450 Nm at 1,380 – 5,000 rpm. The petrol engine combined with the electrical boost of the hybrid system guarantees typical BMW driving pleasure. Together, the two units deliver a total of 384 hp (390 PS) and maximum torque of 600 Nm, delivering excellent fuel-efficiency of up to 39.5 kmpl. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 kmph in 5.3 seconds with a top speed of up to 250 kmph. Running on battery power alone, the car achieves a top speed of 140 kmph with an electric drive range of 53 kms. Using a standard charging cable, the car be charged overnight (8 – 12 hours) from any conventional 220 V mains socket. Using the BMW wallbox charger, it can be charged in 4 – 5 hours. Thanks to smart BMW plug-in-hybrid drivetrain, the battery is charged while on the move using energy generated from various components.

The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 730Ld produces an output of 265 hp  (269 PS) and a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 2,000 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 kmph in just 6.2 seconds. The three-litre six-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 740Li produces an output of 340 hp (345 PS) and a maximum torque of 450 Nm at 1,500 – 5,200 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 km / hr in just 5.6 seconds.

The massive six-litre twelve-cylinder M Performance petrol engine of the BMW M760Li xDrive produces an output of 609 hp (618 PS) and a maximum torque of 850 Nm at 1,550 – 5,000 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 kmph in just 3.8 seconds.

BMW xDrive, an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, monitors the driving situation constantly and is quick to respond.Dynamic Damper Control improves ride quality and suspension by stabilizing all irregularities of the surface. The Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension enables raising and lowering of vehicle at the touch of button and automatically adjusts the height of the car to suit any given driving situation.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier – BMW Gesture Control, BMW Display Key, Wireless Charging, Wireless Apple CarPlay and optional BMW Head-Up Display. The modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional running on latest BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3 inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25 inch Control Display. The Harman Kardon Surround Sound system and the optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System provide an intense musical feast for the ears.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking and steering. The new Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of parking or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. With the BMW Remote Control Parking, a driver can park his car into a tight parking space without being inside the car.

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

BMW safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), 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.

Dr. Hans-Christian Baertels, President (act.), BMW Group India with the BMW X7

The first-ever BMW X7 was launched in India. Locally-produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the BMW X7 can be booked at BMW dealerships effective immediately.

Dr. Hans-Christian Baertels, President (act.), BMW Group India said, “The first-ever BMW X7 is a statement of the luxury class – the flagship of the ‘X’ range. It combines the modernity and exclusivity of a luxury sedan with the agile driving and spaciousness of a sports activity vehicle. Ensuring its prominence on the road, the size of the X7 needs to be seen to be believed. It’s big, it’s bold and has an incredible on-road presence. The first-ever BMW X7 opens up a brand new dimension in luxurious driving pleasure and is designed to elevate every moment of the journey. The first-class comfort this car delivers is absolutely unparalleled. With the BMW X7, the possibilities are truly limitless.”

The BMW X7 is available in a distinctive design scheme – Design Pure Excellence ‘DPE’. The Design Pure Excellence package sets brilliant accents. Chrome high-gloss elements in the exterior and other interior finishes underline the contemporary, luxurious and aesthetic character with unique craftsmanship.

The BMW X7 is available in BMW X7 xDrive30d Design Pure Excellence Signature variant (diesel) which is locally produced. The BMW X7 xDrive40i (petrol) is available as a completely built-up unit (CBU).

The ex-showroom prices are as follows:

BMW X7 xDrive30d Design Pure Excellence Signature – Rs 98,90,000

BMW X7 xDrive40i (CBU)  – Rs 98,90,000

The BMW X7 is available in following metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Terra Brown, Arctic Grey Brilliant Effect and Carbon Black.  Additionally, BMW X7 xDrive40i has the following paintwork- Alpine White (non-metallic), and metallic Vermont Bronze, Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect.  The BMW X7 features fine upholstery leather ‘Vernasca’ in design-perforated as standard with the following combinations – Canberra Beige | Mokka, Cognac | Black and Black | Black.

The front is among the most distinctive aspects of the BMW X7. The large kidney grille forms the heart of the impressive front design. BMW laser light technology with blue X-shaped elements makes a distinctive visual proclamation. Ensuring prominence on the road is the imposing silhouette. Large windows and elongated roofline characterize the athletic and modern side view. Long doors at the rear emphasize the spaciousness of the SAV. The rear shows determination and superiority. A contemporary look is created by the horizontal lines, slim LED lights and a two-section split tailgate of the rear. A generous sprinkling of chrome elements adds to the elegance.

The interior features a cockpit marked by typical BMW driver orientation and an elevated seat position with all-round visibility, a characteristic of X models. There is abundant legroom, headroom and space for up to seven seats. Rear-seat experience is enhanced with optional six-seat configuration including two captain-style comfort seats for the second row. Automatic air conditioning with five-zone control extends the comfort for each passenger.

Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Sky Lounge Panoramic glass sunroof. The large panoramic roof extending till the third row, allows light flow throughout the BMW X7.  The absolute highlight in the interior is ‘Crafted Clarity’ which is a host of operational features crafted in exquisite glass that embellish the insert of the gear selector, the iDrive control wheel, the audio control button and the start/stop button.

The Comfort Access System remotely detects the key within a 1.5 metre radius and unlocks the doors and the two-section tailgate. The Luggage-Compartment Package includes slide rails for easy loading. Soft close function for doors adds to the increased levels of comfort. The BMW X7 offers an extremely versatile and flexible luggage compartment. Folding down the second and third row seats can increase storage capacity from 326 litre up to 2,120 litres, making it suitable for all kinds of journeys.

The three-litre six-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW X7 xDrive40i produces an output of 340 hp (345 PS) and maximum torque of 450 Nm at 1,500 – 5,200 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.1 seconds. The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW X7 xDrive30d produces an output of 265 hp (269 PS) and a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 1,500 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 7 seconds.

BMW xDrive, an all-wheel-drive system, monitors the driving situation constantly and is quick to respond. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks’ (ADB-X), extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control’ (DTC), Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain. The BMW X7 is equipped with Park Distance Control (PDC) including sensors at both the front and rear. The Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension enables raising and lowering of vehicle at the touch of button and automatically adjusts the height of the car to suit any given driving situation.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry – BMW Gesture Control, BMW Display Key, Wireless Charging and Wireless Apple CarPlay. The modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional running on latest BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3 inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 12.3 inch Control Display.

Rear-seat Entertainment Professional allows users to access the entertainment, navigation from the rear seats.  It now comprises two 10.2 inch full-HD displays screen with touch functionality integrated with a Blu-ray player. Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers provides an intense musical feast for the ears.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking as well as steering. The 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.

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

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.

Although manufacturers place a strong emphasis on their service networks to follow processes and communication standards, the experience falls short for two-wheeler owners who visit authorised service outlets for specific repairs, according to the J.D. Power 2019 India Two-Wheeler Customer Service Index (2WCSI) Study, released today.

The study finds that 12 per cent of owners who went to an authorised service workshop did so for a specific repair, compared with 91 per cent who required a routine service only. Among the owners who pinpoint a specific problem for repair, satisfaction with the service experience was lower by 32 index points compared to customers who visit for routine service only (725 vs. 757, respectively, on a 1,000-point scale). Chief contributors to the drop-in satisfaction include: gaps with the problem diagnosis; inadequate communication; actual repairs not meeting expectations; and time management concerns.

“Service revenue plays a crucial part in dealer profitability and customers requiring specific repairs generate 37 per cent more revenue than those visiting for routine service,” said Rajat Agarwal, Two-Wheeler Industry Expert at J.D. Power. “Hence, it is essential that workshops make all efforts to position themselves as the preferred choice regardless of the type of service undertaken. As vehicle ownership increases, the proportion requiring repairs will further grow. Dealers who improve their process discipline and customer communication will benefit in terms of increased loyalty and recommendations.”

Following are some key findings of the 2019 study:

• Execution issues with scheduling service: Satisfaction is higher among customers who schedule an appointment compared with those who drop by (790 vs. 735, respectively). However, a scheduled appointment does not necessarily translate into faster vehicle handover time, as 30 per cent of appointment customers indicate taking 10 minutes or less while 37 per cent of customers who drop by say the same.

• More customers wait at dealership during service: The percentage of customers who wait at the dealership during the service experience has grown to 35 per cent in 2019, up from 18 per cent in 2016. This is largely because of faster turnaround times, with 64 per cent of customers who waited at the dealership receiving their vehicle within three hours.

• Customers prefer options that provide convenience and time-saving: Satisfaction is higher among customers who are offered pickup and drop-off service than among those who were not (779 vs. 742, respectively). At the same time, satisfaction is higher among customers who were offered express service than among those were not (777 vs. 742, respectively).

Study Rankings

TVS ranks highest in customer satisfaction for the fourth consecutive year, with a score of 803, performing particularly well in all five factors. Honda and Yamaha rank second in tie with a score of 751.

The J.D. Power 2019 India 2WCSI Study is based on evaluations from 6,153 two-wheeler owners in 45 cities across India. These owners purchased a new two-wheeler between November 2016 and March 2018 and had a service experience within three months of evaluation. The study was fielded from November 2018 to March 2019.

The study, now in its fourth year, measures customer satisfaction with the after-sales service experience at OEM-authorised service centers during the first 12-24 months of ownership. The study examines overall satisfaction in five factors (listed in order of importance): service quality (22 per cent); vehicle delivery (21 per cent); service facility (20 per cent); service adviser (20 per cent); and service initiation (18 per cent).

Mercedes-Benz India has announced an upward revision of the price of its select model range effective first week of August, 2019. The price correction would be up to the range of 3 per cent, varying across the model range. The current increase in custom duty on automotive parts and additional cess and excise duty on fuel has been exerting significant pressure on overall operations. The combination of all these factors led Mercedes-Benz India to correct the prices of its select model range.

Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “As the leading luxury automobile maker in India, we have been relentlessly working on offering the best of products and industry benchmark customer service and ownership experience. However, a hike in custom duty on automotive parts, compounded by an increase in excise duty and cess on fuel have had a significant impact on our bottom line. We were left with fewer options, but to make some necessary price adjustments to our product range at the moment to offset the impact of the rising input costs.”

He further added, “Despite this moderate price revision, the innovative and tailor-made financial offerings from Mercedes-Benz like the recently launched STAR Agility+, STAR Finance, STAR Lease, Corporate STAR Lease etc. are specially designed for our discerning customers to drive home their dream Mercedes. These unique solutions provide benchmark value proposition, enabling a hassle free purchase. Similarly, our service programmes like STAR Ease, STAR Care, STAR Care Plus and On Road Assistance programmes further elevate the customers’ overall ownership experience.”

Volvo Cars has reported a record revenue for the first six months of 2019 of SEK130.1 billion (approximately INR 957.536 billion), up from SEK122.9 billion year-on-year and buoyed by the best first half-year sales performance in the company’s history.

For the first six months, sales amounted to a record 340,286 cars, a year-on-year increase of 7.3 per cent. During the period, Volvo Cars grew consistently faster than the overall market.

The company has gained market share across the US, China and Europe, with the UK and Germany recording growth of 30 per cent and 32 per cent respectively. The overall passenger car market in the US declined by 2.0 per cent in first half, while China and Europe fell by 9.3 percent and 3.1 percent respectively during the same period.

Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief executive, emphasised that the company has prioritised growth and market share during the period, capitalising on the building momentum for the Volvo brand generated by an all-new line-up of award-winning models. “At a time when most markets in the world see stagnating car sales, we have had strong growth in the first half,” Mr Samuelsson said.

Volvo Cars has initiated additional cost measures within the company on top of already planned measures, which combined, aim to lower fixed costs by SEK2 billion. These actions will come into effect in the second half of the year and running into the first half of 2020.

For the remainder of the year, Volvo Cars expects continued growth in sales and revenue, boosted by continued strong demand for the fully renewed product portfolio as well as increased production capacity.

Market conditions are expected to put continued pressure on margins, but the combination of volume growth and cost measures is expected to result in a strengthened profit in the second half of the year compared with the same period last year.

AutoFurnish is a tech-driven brand of car accessories which applies technology in all aspects of the business including – digital marketing, manufacturing processes, innovations, adaption of new models and variants of automobile to produce best-in-class products for its customers. The brand offers an extensive range of Automobile accessories at affordable price and convenience for car owners across India. Power Drive had an opportunity to speak with Mr. Puneet Arora, CEO of AutoFurnish to gain a better understanding of the aftermarket accessories segment.

Tell us why customers prefer to install accessories from the aftermarket to transform their old cars into a brand new one?

Modern car buyers are ambitious and willing to experiment as much as they can. As car dealers offer regular range of accessories at a high price, customers have started to buy accessories from the aftermarket. Those who don’t believe in minimalistic philosophy and love to try out futuristic car accessories to revamp comfort, style and utility quotient are now relying on the car accessories aftermarket. The growing trend of installing technology driven accessories inspired from imported cars can be seen in the budget car owners. The mid segment car or pre-owned car users find better deals and accessories at jaw-dropping rates, thus they are not hesitant to visit aftermarket shops or online stores to get all what they want.

Will the aftermarket accessory purchase for premium segment cars prove to be more safe and affordable?

If you are buying a pre-owned luxury car then you have to spend a few bucks in its service, maintenance or to buy a couple of accessories. As luxury cars and their accessories cost a bomb, it is always better, safer and more affordable to visit the aftermarket to get the best quality accessories at highly competitive rates. In the last couple of years, the sales of luxury pre-owned cars has increased drastically which leads to the rising sales of car accessories from the aftermarket. Most of the pre-owned luxury cars have short life, thus it is advisable and wise to install accessories from the aftermarket to save a lot of money.

In an era where cars come packed with accessories in order to attract buyers, how relevant is the aftermarket segment?

Modern cars are now coming with pre-loaded accessories that are designed to enhance the comfort-level and style quotient. In the last couple of years, car manufacturers have invested a lot of time and money in making their brand new cars a technology driven vehicles. A lot of additions have been made including car floor mats, high quality sun films, premium seat covers, mud flaps, enhanced audio system, air freshener, remote locking security system and many more. The main point of such additions is to attract customers. However, the availability of pre-loaded accessories entirely depend on the variant you are going to pick. In fact, you have to pick high end variant in order to enjoy the comfort of pre-loaded accessories. And if you are going to pick a high end variant then it will shoot up the cost drastically.

It is also important to know that car dealerships charge a bomb for extra accessories. Thus, it is always advised to purchase all extra accessories of comfort and style from the aftermarket to save a lot of money. The aftermarket is now offering a versatile range of accessories with multiple variants. If you are worried about the quality then you can pick a high quality variant from the aftermarket. It will cost much lower than the dealership.

However, the positive point of new cars coming with pre-loaded accessories is that customers are now aware of recent updates, accessories and features unlike before. In fact, car reviews given by auto experts give them a lot of details on features and modern accessories that are now readily available in the aftermarket.

Why do you think the auto OEMs are also foraying into aftermarket car accessories segments?

Due to the rising popularity of aftermarket car accessories, auto OEMs have also started foraying into the segment to capture the market share. Every year, automobile especially car manufacturers bring new features, accessories and gadget to amplify the comfort, style and glamour quotient in cars. And aftermarket immediately brings alternatives at jaw-dropping rates. Knowing the recent trend of customers visiting aftermarket for car accessories, many auto OEM brands have started offering multiple futuristic car accessories to the customers. OEM brands are basically the manufacturer of the final assembled products. The prominent auto OEMs like Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, Ford, Nissan, Hyundai and many more have started offering their own original products to the customers. And a large chunk of customers get attracted to them just because they get the brand value and assurance right from the manufacturer. However, not everyone can afford to have OEM accessories for pre-owned or old cars. Thus, they visit the aftermarket to get accessories as per their requirements without paying a bomb. Thus, auto OEMs is not a big threat or competition to the aftermarket as there is a big difference between the price and variety offered by both of them.

Kia Motors today revealed that the pre-bookings of the Seltos has generated an overwhelming response with 6,046 bookings on the first day itself. With record bookings on the first day itself, the company is already making waves in the auto industry with the yet to be launched Kia Seltos. These substantial pre-book numbers reflect customer confidence that the brand has been able to garner even prior to the launch.

The Kia site received around two lakh hits on 16th, from Kia online booking site alone is unprecedented, with 1,628 booking coming in just one day.

Kia Motors India commenced the pre-bookings of Seltos from July 16, 2019 across its dealerships in 160 cities in the country and has achieved this landmark figure within a single day.

Manohar Bhat, Vice President, and Head – Sales & Marketing, Kia Motors India said, “Getting such an overwhelming response from customers across the 160 cities where we are present, makes us elated. It is a remarkable feat and is a testament to Kia’s unparalleled & extraordinary brand recognition and acceptability in India that our brand campaign has help us achieve. Our mid-SUV, the Seltos is BSVI compliant from day 1 and is available in both petrol and diesel, with both Manual and Automatic options in all powertrains, it makes it an attractive proposition.” He further added “We are committed to the Indian market and to delivering the best and class leading products. With our most modern automotive plant having 3 lakh capacity, we are fully prepared to make on time deliveries and uphold the trust our customers have shown in us.”

Since its global debut in India, Kia Seltos has been able to capture everyone’s attention because of its design, quality and many India, segment and world first features. Customers have shown a lot of interest in the Seltos, making it one of the most anticipated car launches of 2019.

The Kia Seltos will be available in two trims – Tech Line and GT Line – and will get features such as 8.0 heads-up-display, 10.25 HD touchscreen, a hi-tech sound mood lamp, a rear shade curtain, 360 degree surround view monitor, blind spot monitoring, world’s first connect air-purifier, highly advanced proprietary UVO connect system for seamless and wireless communication with the car, 8-Speaker Bose Hi-Fi sound system and more.

The Seltos will be manufactured in Kia’s 536-acre Anantapur plant with an annual capacity of 3,00,000 units. The mid-SUV will be launched in India on August 22 and the bookings are currently being accepted for a token amount of Rs 25,000.

Carl Fogarty with the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916

In 2019 a quarter of a century will have elapsed since the Ducati 916 arrived on the global stage, forever changing the Superbike world. Born from Massimo Tamburini’s sketches, this bike has revolutionized the world of motorcycle design and has made fans fall in love all over the planet. Incredibly innovative in its style, elegance, lightweight and compactness, by many it’s believed to be the sexiest and most iconic bike ever built.

The Ducati 916 wasn’t just a beautiful bike and an enormous sales success. It also won World Superbike championships: the 916 SBK was a force to be reckoned with even as it made its debut in 1994, and the following years saw it win 120 races, 8 constructors’ titles and 6 riders’ titles, four of them with Carl Fogarty. The Englishman has won 55 races with Ducati, of which 43 riding a Ducati 916 SBK and 996 SBK. “King Carl” and the 916 remain the most successful “couple” in Ducati SBK history.

Ducati has decided to celebrate this anniversary by building a special 916-dedicated version of the Panigale V4. Hence the genesis of the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916: a unique limited-edition bike of only 500 pieces, designed to let all true Ducatisti re-live the spirit of the 916.

The “25° Anniversario 916” is built on the mechanics of the Panigale V4 S. This has been upgraded with racing content from the Panigale V4 R such as the Front Frame, designed to Ducati Corse specifications. The look of the bike combines a special livery with forged magnesium wheels, a titanium type-approved Akrapovic exhaust and a long list of Ducati Performance components.

For its world-first preview, Ducati chose round nine of the Superbike World Championship at Laguna Seca (California, USA). Here, Francesco Milicia (VP Global Sales & After Sales Director Ducati Motor Holding), Jason Chinnock (CEO Ducati North America) and Carl Fogarty unveiled the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916.

The presentation of the bike was also an occasion of remembrance, honouring Californian Carlin Dunne, the Spider Grips Ducati team rider who recently died at Pikes Peak. Jason Chinnock announced Ducati’s decision to remove the number 5 from selling, the same number that Dunne used to race with. The bike will be auctioned, with proceeds going to a fund-raising effort aimed at providing Carlin’s mother with support.

Sergi Canovas, Managing Director of Ducati India said, “The Ducati 916 is one of the most iconic motorcycles to have come out of the Borgo Panigale factory and it redefined design and performance at its time. At Ducati, we’re very proud of our heritage and what better way to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 916 than to produce an ultra-exclusive version of the Panigale V4, recognizing our present and the past. The Panigale V4 25° Anniversary 916 is coming to India and I’m sure bike enthusiasts and collectors alike will appreciate its uniqueness.”

“I’m thrilled to be here at this event,” stated Carl Fogarty after riding the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916 onto the stage at Pebble Beach. “The Ducati 916 gave me some fantastic, unforgettable moments. It played a starring role in my career and in the history of the World Superbike Championship. On the wider motorcycling scene, it set a whole new standard of style and performance. I’m proud to have played a pivotal role in that success story, and equally proud to be here today and celebrate this important anniversary by officially unveiling this breath-taking bike.”

Starting from Saturday morning, the Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916 will go on display at Ducati Island (the space Ducati traditionally sets aside for its fans during American races).

The Panigale V4 25° Anniversario 916 will arrive in dealerships starting from October 2019 at a price of INR 54,90,000 ex-showroom (price is country specific).

Parag Satpute, Managing Director, Bridgestone India

Bridgestone India has inaugurated a major expansion in excess of Rs. 350 crore in its  Indore plant at Kheda, Madhya Pradesh. With this expansion, the capacity of the Indore plant will go up to over 20,000 tyres a day by 2020.This expansion will enable Bridgestone India to meet the increased demand for its products.

Spread over 76 acres, this plant will produce the entire Bridgestone India’s range of radial tyres serving passenger car segment. Strategically located close to the centre of India, this plant has the logistic advantage of serving some crucial OEMs and aftermarket businesses for the passenger vehicle segment in the automotive sector. This state-of the-art facility is driven by advanced Japanese technology, ready to produce world class quality tyres for Indian roads.

Vivek Porwal, Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh, Industrial Development Corporation Ltd inaugurated the plant, in the presence of Michio Harada, Consul General of Japan in Mumbai, and Akihiro Eto, COO, Bridgestone Corporation.

Commenting on the occasion Parag Satpute, Managing Director, Bridgestone India said, “This expansion is our response to the trust and confidence of our OEM partners in our product offerings. Through this expansion, we also demonstrate our commitment to create value for a larger base of Indian consumers with our world class quality. India’s growth prospects in the mid to long term future are positive. And, Bridgestone India is ready to take the lead in being a trusted partner to our customers, dealers, consumers, and all other stakeholders at large.”