Mercedes-Benz India today announced an upward revision in price of its entire model range effective April 1. The imminent price correction would be in the range of 3 percent, across the entire model range. The constant increase in input costs in addition to an increase in logistics costs have been exerting significant pressure on the overall costs of the company. The rising input costs also led to a significant increase in the company’s operational costs, prompting Mercedes-Benz to revise the ex-showroom price of the entire model range in its endeavour to operate a sustainable and fundamentally strong business.
Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “At Mercedes-Benz we continue to offer the most technologically advanced products for an unmatched product experience. However, to run a sustainable business a price correction is necessary to offset the continuous rise in input and operational costs. The new price range of our vehicles will ensure the brand’s premium price positioning, enabling seamless continuation of best-in-segment ownership experiences for our discerning customers.”
Senior Nissan executive Frank Torres has been appointed Region Divisional Vice President for Business Transformation in the AMIEO region (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania) and the new President of Nissan India.
Torres, an experienced leader across multiple divisions and markets for Nissan, will be responsible for leading the brand across its operations in the country as Nissan continues to build on the success of the locally produced Magnite.
Effective April 1, he will become President of India Operations while keeping his current responsibilities overseeing Nissan’s European Regional Business Unit East (Russia) and Nissan’s Spanish Industrial Operations, reporting to Guillaume Cartier, Nissan AMIEO Chairperson.
Torres joined Nissan in Spain in 2007 as a Production Engineering Analyst, before becoming Managing Director for Nissan Motor Iberica (NMISA) in 2011. From 2016 he led Nissan Europe’s Overseas Programme Director’s Office, before becoming head of Nissan’s European RBU East in 2019, once again taking responsibilities for Spanish Industrial Operations from 2020, before becoming Region Divisional Vice President for Business Transformation and Alliance in 2021.
He replaces Sinan Özkök, who has overseen the successful launch of the Nissan Magnite in India and its export to overseas markets and has been appointed Vice President for Marketing and Sales Transformation and Managing Director for Independent Markets in the Nissan AMIEO region. In this newly created role, Özkök will report to Leon Dorssers, Senior Vice President for Marketing and Sales AMIEO and will be based in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France.
Torres said: “This is an exciting time for Nissan in the AMIEO region and for the Indian market. The launch of Magnite from our Chennai plant has given our customers in India and beyond a taste of what Nissan can offer and under our Ambition 2030 vision we are looking forward to bringing further innovation and excitement to the market.”
Atsushi Najima, currently Managing Director Nissan Philippines, is appointed Nissan India Chief Financial Officer. Atsushi will be reporting directly to Mohamed Aly, Director Control AMIO, with a dotted line to Frank Torres, Region Divisional Vice President, AMIEO Business Transformation and Alliance AMIEO, President India Operations. Atsushi will be replacing Mark Davidson who moved back to MC Americas as CFO COMPAS manufacturing plant in Mexico. Atsushi will be splitting his time between New Delhi and Chennai.
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), has announced the launch of its N Line range of merchandise, perfectly resonating fun and sporty experiences associated with the newly launched i20 N Line in India.
Commenting on the N Line Merchandise introduction, Mr. Tarun Garg, Director (Sales, Marketing & Service), Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai is known to hone the youthful and fun seeking spirit of millennials, making a conscious effort to bring out fervour in all our offerings. At a time when millennials are driving consumerism, we have yet again tried to redefine fun and exciting driving experiences for customers who love to embrace playful sportiness. We have launched the NLine range of merchandise that perfectly reflects the philosophy of our N Line cars in India.”
The N Line range of merchandise has been conceptualised and developed on the theme of “Gear for the Player” that resonates a rush of adrenaline and excitement and a feel of sportiness and fun experiences. With the i20 N Line becoming a perfect partner to play every day, the N Line range of merchandise amplifies sporty experiences to live a truly exceptional and fast paced lifestyle.
A collection of thoughtfully picked items complementing the exquisite taste of customers, Hyundai NLine Merchandise range has something for everyone. The elfin collection will be available exclusively at all Hyundai Signature Dealerships.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has announced the launch of its new Glanza. Toyota’s most affordable offering in India, the Glanza comes with additional affordable variants, advanced features, dynamic look, sporty design and low cost of maintenance, making it a strong value proposition in the segment.
The highly anticipated hatchback was launched at a virtual event today, in the presence of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) Executive Vice President of Sales & Customer Service – Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, and Mr. Atul Sood, Associate Vice President, Sales and Strategic Marketing at TKM.
On the exterior, the new Glanza boasts of a stylish Toyota signature front grill, carbon fiber elements accentuating the sporty front bumper and 16-inch sleek alloy wheels, LED projector headlamps, and LED fog lamps. The Glanza will be available in five exterior colour options- Sporting Red (New), Gaming Grey (New), Enticing Silver (New), Insta Blue, Cafe White.
The interiors of the Glanza are beautifully crafted. The car has a classy dual tone interiors with ergonomically designed wide legroom & headroom, tilt & telescopic steering, steering-mounted audio control with push start, foot well & courtesy lamps, 9-inch new smart playcast, auto EC IRVM, cruise control, rear AC vents, UV protect glass, USB rear, and auto AC – all combining to provide a comfortable and convenient ride.
Under the hood, the new Glanza features the ‘K-Series Engine’ which comes with a choice of Manual Transmission (MT) as well as an Automatic Manual Transmission (AMT). The 1197cc powertrain of the new Glanza deliver 66 KW (89 PS) of maximum power. The product will be introduced with two new affordable grades to the existing line-up – E (New), S (New), G, V.
Ensuring convenience to the contemporary customers, technologies such as the head-up display, 360-degree camera and 9-inch smart play cast, will not only allow control via a smartphone (Apple & Android) but will also ensure that the user is always in control and connected on the go.
Safety is paramount to Toyota, hence the new Glanza comes with a set of advanced safety features that include 6 airbags, ABS with EB, VSC, ISOfix, a TECT body and Hill Hold Control.
Commenting on the launch of the Toyota’s Cool New Glanza, Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, Executive Vice President – Sales & Customer Service, TKM, said, “Over these last few years the Glanza has won many hearts in India. And yet again with the Cool New Glanza,we are delighted to be recognized as a trusted brand by our customers who have started booking this new car ingood numbers.Exclusively designed by Toyota’s designers, the Cool New Glanza features Toyota’s signature styling and sportiness. We believe it is the perfect choice for those customers who are seeking a stylish, technology laden, safe and comfortable car.
The advanced connected technology used in the new Glanza is Toyota’s home-grown technology-Toyota i-Connect, which can be enabled through a smartphone or a smartwatch and is fully loaded with 45 plus features. What makes the cool new Glanza even more awesome, is the ‘Heart Touching Guest Experience’ across all our dealerships. The new Glanza takes Toyota’s commitment to quality and service to a whole new set of customers for a delightful ownership experience, thus delivering “mass happiness to all.”
Talking from the Marketing Strategy point of view for the Cool New Glanza launch, Mr. Atul Sood, AVP, Sales and Strategic Marketing, TKM, said, “At TKM, we have always focused on delivering the best products and services to our customers. In doing so, it has been our endeavour to draw more customers to the Toyota Experience, thus catering to the needs of the millennials who seek both value and style. The launch of the Cool New Glanza is an important step in that direction. It will be our goal to continue enabling more people to buy and experience a Toyota along with our renowned after-sales service which is a key differentiating factor.
We are happy to offer a unique industry experience that comes with the acclaimed global standards of Toyota service quality, provided by highly trained staff who will attend to your car with utmost care in a prompt and timely manner. Besides the range of exciting features, the new hatchback from Toyota’s stable also offers affordable cost of maintenance thus ensuring complete peace of mind,” he added.
Furthermore, the new Glanza is bundled with the renowned Toyota experience through a warranty of 3 years/100,000 kilometres and an option of extended warranty of upto 5 years/220, 000 kilometres, to further enhance customer satisfaction. Convenience of periodic service in just 60 minutes via Express Maintenance, booking service appointment through just a few clicks and peace of mind through 24x 7 roadside assistance.
It all began 75 years ago with the Maserati A6 1500, a model with a revolutionary spirit, the forerunner of a class of car that had never been seen before. It would go on to influence the automotive landscape all over the world, and successive generations of Maserati road cars.
In March 1947, the Geneva Motor Show witnessed the launch of the first Gran Turismo in history: the Tipo A6 (taking its name from the project), better known as the A6 1500 Gran Turismo.
Accorded an enthusiastic welcome by professionals and the public, the Tipo A6 represented the first step in a story in which Maserati has revamped the technology and design. The brand has held true to its hallmarks of elegance and high performance, ubiquitous in every model in the range and continuing in the next generation of the GranTurismo, the Trident brand’s first 100% electric car, due to be launched onto the market in 2023.
The history of the A6 1500 dates back to even earlier than 1947.
It actually goes all the way back to 1941 and the design of a sedan with a fixed head engine and twin camshaft, which had to be a close descendant of the 6CM’s, if of course revisited with Gran Turismo in mind. The upshot was an outstanding engine with a maximum output of 65 hp, with its single Weber 36DCR carburettor giving the car a top speed of 150 km/h.
The project was named A6, A for ‘Alfieri’, 6 for the number of cylinders.
It also featured independent wheel front suspension, with oscillating trapeziums and coil springs, rigid beam with leaf springs in the rear, hydraulically controlled brakes and disc wheels (spoked on request), with a 3.5” channel, 16” in diameter, and 5.50-16 tyres.
Intended for the Geneva Motor Show, the first model was produced in February 1947 by the Pininfarina bodyshop, bearing its characteristic mechanically operated retractable inside headlights. However, the clearest innovation from the past was its tubular chassis with circular cross-section components, to adopt some of the most fashionable trends at the time.
Not only was it the retractable headlights and chassis that would attract the attention of the public in Geneva, but also the plexiglass sunroof and a bonnet that could be raised from both sides or removed.
Resounding compliments and awards quickly led to the decision to give the green light to production, albeit with certain changes from the prototype. These included the restoration of more conventional lights, framed in chrome plating. The Extra Lusso version also featured a new, more modern grille and larger side windows.
Production of the A6 1500 Gran Turismo continued until 1950, with a cosmetic update taking place in 1948. Pininfarina would also make further changes to the bodywork: the embossed trim was removed from the front fenders, and two rear seats were added to the cabin.
Despite the relatively limited number of units produced, 58 over its 4 years, the A6 1500 was a milestone in Maserati history. At that point, the brand began to establish itself as a producer of tailor-made, high-quality road cars, with sport in its DNA. The glorious Pininfarina-designed bodywork would then go on to inspire successive generations of Maserati cars: a high-class, timeless design that continues to resound to this day in the current range, and will take the brand forward into the future. While the A6 1500 represented the beginning of the Maserati epic of road cars, like passing the baton, the new GranTurismo will mark the brand’s entry into the world of Full-Electric with Folgore, and will light the fuse of a new, innovative energy.
The new BMW X4 has been launched in India today. BMW has refreshed the Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) with striking design elements, added equipment and attractive features.
Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the new BMW X4 will be available in diesel and petrol variants at all BMW dealerships across India from today onwards.
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X4 popularised the distinctive Sports Activity Coupe concept in India. It instantly became the vehicle of choice for customers who have a unique style that stands out from rest of the crowd. At the same time, they desire the luxury and performance similar to a sports activity vehicle. And this is the USP of BMW X4! The way it fuses Sheer Driving Pleasure with head-turning looks and sporty adventure is inimitable. Now the new BMW X4 is ready to continue this status in its segment with a refreshed exterior and an attractive profile with multiple technology features. Its forever bold persona will make a statement that’s impossible to forget.”
The new BMW X4 is available in an exclusive ‘Black Shadow’ edition in limited numbers only. Designed with a focus on dynamics, it’s tailored to suit the needs of motorsport enthusiasts.
The car has been launched in a diesel and petrol variant at the following ex-showroom prices –
BMW X4 xDrive30i – INR 70,50,000
BMW X4 xDrive30d – INR 72,50,000
The new BMW X4 is available in Black Sapphire and M Brooklyn Grey metallic paintworks. They are paired with Leather Vernasca upholstery with ‘Black’ decor stitching. M interior trim Aluminum Rhombicledark with highlight trim finisher in Pearl Chrome is standard.
The distinctive sports activity coupe design of the new BMW X4 is a guaranteed head turner. The significantly redesigned exterior reinforces the off-road look and sportiness. The new front is immediately noticeable with its striking BMW kidney grille, thin headlights and redesigned front apron.
The distinctive BMW mesh kidney grille has all-black mesh-inserts and frame finished in ‘M High Gloss Shadow line’. Adaptive LED Headlamps are now 10mm slimmer and flatter, creating a more focused face. They are designed in M Shadow line with black accents and have Matrix function as standard. Moving below, the newly designed front apron conveys power through the M Aerodynamic package which features components in body color in front / rear apron and side sill covers. Vertical air intakes and bumper inserts in dark shadow metallic add further boldness.
The side profile is tremendously athletic and sporty. A visual black frame is created around the coupe-style windows with M High Gloss Shadow line. It extends from window recess cover, along the guide rail, mid pillars, to the base of the side-view mirrors and finally the roof rail. 20” light M alloy wheels double spoke and M Sport Brakes with red callipers display track readiness.
The rear is tidier with increased painted surface and bumper in M Aerodynamic package. The bumper is done up in dark shadow metallic color with new anvil-shaped inlays in high gloss black and vertically arranged reflectors. The enormous width of the car is emphasized through two-part wrap-around LED rear taillights, a large automatic tailgate and wide free-form tailpipe in black color.
The interior boasts an exceptional level of comfort and functionality in a new sporty ambience. Together with an elevated seat position and generous proportions, it ensures first-class comfort. The interior has clearly structured surfaces and an ergonomically impeccable cockpit design that ensures the driver’s focus remains one hundred per cent on the intense driving experience. Driver and front passenger enjoy the superior flair of a premium SAC with Sports Seats which impress with numerous electrical adjustment options and memory function. Rear passengers can tilt the seats backwards by up to 9˚ for added comfort. The modern design of the centre console, instrument panel in Sensatec, usage of M headliner anthracite and galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. M leather steering wheel with ‘Walknappa’ black with black stitching and M logo spells exclusivity.
A relaxed and harmonious lounge atmosphere is created thanks to a large electrically operated Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six selectable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Features such as electroplated controls and 3-zone automatic climate control with extended options add to the overall luxurious feel. The boot has a capacity of 525 litres and can be expanded further to 1,430 litres by folding down the 40/20/40 split rear seat backrest.
The innovative petrol and diesel engines from the BMW EfficientDynamics family offer considerably more spirited power delivery as well as spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. Thanks to their unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, they meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency. The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW X4 xDrive30d produces an output of 265 hp and a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 2,000 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 5.8 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of BMW X4 xDrive30i produces an output of 252 hp and maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,450 –4,800 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.6 seconds.
The 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gear shifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is available with steering wheel paddle shifters.
BMW xDrive, an intelligent all-wheel-drive system monitors the driving situation constantly and is quick to respond. The compact, low-weight and efficient all-wheel-drive system distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear axle exactly to suit the driving situation and the surface. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks (ADB-X)’, extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)’, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain. Adaptive Suspension makes it possible to adjust the damper characteristics to suit any given driving situation, increasing comfort and driving dynamics.
BMW EfficientDynamics doubles ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ with features such as Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, driver is able to choose between different driving modes (ECOPRO, COMFORT, SPORT/ SPORT+) to suit diverse driving conditions.
The new BMW X4 features cutting-edge safety technologies. It provides optimal support in any situation with six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.
A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. The modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 12.3-inch Control Display and BMW Head-up Display. The occupants can operate a number of car functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 16 speakers conjures an engrossing treat for the ears.
The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways.
India’s leading luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz, has launched the ultimate global symbol of automotive excellence and motoring luxury, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in India. The pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship by Mercedes-Benz, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines the perfection and high-tech solutions of the New S-Class with the exclusivity and tradition of the Maybach.
Reiterating the brand’s global focus on offering the most desirable products for the Indian customers, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class was launched in India by Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India and Santosh Iyer, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India. With this, the ‘Made in India’ Mercedes-Maybach S 580 also becomes the most technologically advanced and exclusive vehicle ever, to roll-out of Mercedes-Benz India’s world-class production facility in Pune.
Martin Schwenk commented, “The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class surpasses the pinnacle of excellence with its fine blend of luxury, technology and bespoke character. It is the new definition of luxury for the ever evolving S-Class customers, who are young achievers in their respective fields and expect the best of luxury products and services. In addition to the traditional attributes of luxury, comfort and exclusivity, these customers prefer the S-Class Maybach over other products for its highly intuitive and cutting-edge technology. The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is a unique combination of luxury and technology, and we are confident it will exceed customer’s expectations. The launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class underlines our focus on introducing the most desirable products for our Indian customers and exceed the luxury offering introduced by the new S-Class.”
“The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the most advanced and exquisite product we have made in India till date, and it underlines our focus on the growing demand for high-end segment in our portfolio. This limousine demands the ultimate perfection in automotive workmanship along with the most technologically advanced integration introduced with the new S-Class. Therefore, it is a moment of pride for us to roll out the S580 4MATIC version from our manufacturing facility today. It reiterates the implementation of advanced technology and flexible processes in our manufacturing process.” added Mr. Schwenk.
Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille. This is highly recognisable by its vertical, three-dimensional trim strips. The word mark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille. The equally distinctive bumper further emphasises the vehicle’s width with the shape of its air inlets. The side view is characterised by flush-fitted door handles and 19-inch wheels specially designed for this model. The LED ambient lighting in the exterior mirrors, projects the brand logo next to the opened front doors.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has a wheelbase that is 18 cm longer than that of the long variant of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, integrated entirely to curate benefits for the rear compartment. The rear has been extensively upgraded to provide the ultimate luxurious experience. New comfort features include the massage function of the calf-rests on the Executive seats and neck/shoulder heating in the rear. Additionally, the globally celebrated Adaptive Rear Lighting (interior lights) is making its India premiere, with the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. This feature provides the occupant the freedom to completely control the ambient lighting such as, adjusting the brightness, the size, and position of the light spot along with the light colour-warm/cold. There is also a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light available.
The new luxury saloon further enhances the excellent NVH (noise, vibrations, harshness) performance of the car. The extended NVH measures mainly benefit the rear section. Additional absorbent foam is installed in the area of the rear wheel arches. Like the rear door windows, the additional, fixed quarter lights in the C-pillars feature thicker laminated glass, as they are close to the heads of rear passengers. Noise-optimized tyres with foam absorbers are available.
With active road noise cancellation, the interior of the already very quiet Mercedes-Maybach S-Class becomes even more hushed. In a similar way to headphones with noise suppression, the system reduces unwanted low-frequency noises using counter-phased sound waves. To reduce engine noises in the interior, the S 580 4MATIC features engine order cancellation (EOC). This means that the rpm of the engine is used as an input variable to generate counterwaves in the partial load range. The sound is emitted via the speakers of the Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system.
The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors. With this feature, the doors open and close with no effort at all. Its integration into the infotainment and control system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) and Active Blind Spot Assist, ensures ease of use and additional safety. The rear doors can also be operated from the driver’s seat – an important function when chauffeur-driven. In combination with the MBUX Interior Assistant in the rear, the comfort doors can be closed by a gesture of the hand and stopped by extending an arm.
On request, the exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S680 4MATIC can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish with dividing line. This is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria. Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille with fine & vertical chrome pinstripes. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class also differs from its sister models when viewed from the side as it features a fixed quarter light in the C-pillar. Exclusivity is emphasised by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar and the gas & brake pedals.
NTG7 MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) provides brilliant displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, making it even easier to control vehicle and comfort functions. The visual highlight in the interior is the large central display in portrait format. It is ergonomically well positioned, as the screen is within easy sight and reach between the driver and front passenger. The portrait format also allows longer lists to be displayed. The central display features OLED technology as standard. OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode. Compared to LCD screens, the advantages of this technology are a better black level, even stronger contrasts and a lower energy consumption.
Additionally, the MBUX Interior voice assistant “Hey Mercedes” can be controlled from the rear seats. Elegant elements such as rose gold dials in the instrument cluster accentuate the premier appeal.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is equipped with MBUX Interior Assist. MBUX Interior Assist recognizes numerous occupant intentions. It recognizes eye direction, hand gestures, and the body language of the occupants, to assist with automatic vehicle functions as the situation requires. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is also able to recognise movements and gestures by the rear occupants with the help of 3D laser cameras in the roof liner. Its intelligent functionality detects, for example, the height of passengers in the rear and makes adjustments to the rear head restraints. In addition, the seat belt extender for the outer rear seats automatically offers up the belt when MBUX Interior Assist recognizes the occupant’s intention to reach for the belt by hand movements.
The interior assistance reacts to certain movements, for example, if the rear passenger reaches into a defined area of the interior in darkness, a multi-spotlight is automatically switched on. The exit warning function has also been extended and is able to register that a rear passenger intends to leave the vehicle.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is available with a choice of two engine variants: the S 580 4MATIC is powered by an eight-cylinder petrol engine with an integrated second-generation starter-alternator (ISG) and 48-volt onboard electrical system. The S580 4MATIC engine generates an output of 370Kw (503 hp), with a displacement of 3982 cc and maximum torque of 700 Nm. It completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.8 seconds, while the top speed is 250 kmph (electronically limited).
The Mercedes-Maybach S680 4MATIC features the familiar V12, for the first time combined with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. It generates an output of 370 Kw (503 hp), with a displacement of 5980 cc and maximum torque of 900 Nm. It completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is 250 kmph (electronically limited). Both the engines are equipped with GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) and are future-ready to comply with the stringent emission norms.
Evasive Steering Assist can assist the driver when seeking to avoid another road user detected by the system in a critical situation. In the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the system not only recognises stationary and crossing pedestrians, but now also takes account of pedestrians and vehicles travelling longitudinally, as well as cyclists. The speed range has been increased to 108 kmph (instead of 72 kmph), and assistance is also given on long-distance routes.
Active Brake Assist uses the onboard sensors to register whether there is a risk of collision with vehicles travelling ahead, crossing or oncoming. The system can give the driver a visual and acoustic warning if a collision appears imminent. If the driver’s braking response is too weak, the system can also assist by increasing the brake pressure as the situation demands, and also initiate autonomous emergency braking if the driver fails to respond. New functions include the turn-off function (e.g. crossing pedestrians when turning off), extension of the cross-traffic function to long‑distance routes (up to 120 kmph instead of 72 kmph) and warning/braking for oncoming traffic.
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes enhanced with extended MBUX Functions such as native speech recognition, personalization in lighting, temperature etc. The URBAN GUARD Plus vehicle protection offers all-round monitoring of the vehicle’s environment. Equipped with break-in & theft alarm system, emergency key deactivation, vehicle theft assistance service, the car remains secure. It also detects on-road collision and notifies the passenger via the app.
The Car-to-X Technology captures potholes, speed bumps, slippery road, heavy rain, fog conditions, vehicle accidents and also allows general warning manual triggers for road safety hazards – notifying all other connected Mercedes-Benz cars of hazards in the vicinity. Notified via Mercedes-Benz cloud on the navigation system – the notifications are done both – visually as well as with audio alerts in case a vehicle is approaching in higher speeds. All this, in real time within seconds with cloud based Mercedes me connect technology.
Rear Seat Entertainment System provides on-the-go content via two high-resolution, fully integrated 11.6 inch displays to play OTT content. The Burmester ® 4D with 30 high-end speakers and a combined output of 1750 Watt along with 8 exciters in the seat completely envelope the cabin with music.
Digital Light technology had its India debut with the new generation S-Class. DIGITAL LIGHT comes equipped with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle
A personal profile can be created directly in the S-Class and synchronised with the existing profile data of the Mercedes me account. By scanning a QR code with the Mercedes me App, the vehicle is automatically paired to the Mercedes me account.
Personal preferences such as a favourite radio station and preselected settings can be transferred to any seat via the personal Mercedes me profile. Up to seven different profiles with around 600 parameters are possible in the vehicle. The ambient lighting can be individually set by remote configuration, e.g. from home. As the profiles are now stored in the Cloud as part of Mercedes me, they can also be used in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the new MBUX generation.
Alongside the classic entry of a PIN, a new authentication method ensures a high level of security. Fingerprint, and voice recognition are combined. This allows access to individual settings or verification of digital payment processes from the vehicle.
The ENERGIZING COACH even suggests an appropriate vitalisation or wellness programme based on vehicle and trip data. It also factors the information about sleep quality and stress level into its intelligent algorithm if the driver has a suitable wearable.
Rear passengers in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are now the first to benefit from this convenience in the rear of the saloon. The seat belt extender is an indirect invitation to fasten the belt as it makes the process much easier. It is no longer necessary to move from an adopted, comfortable seating position to fasten the belt. The seat belt extender is integrated into the adjustable backrest of the Executive seat, and therefore always in the right position for the passenger.
During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag included as standard can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seat belt wearing occupants on the outer rear seats. The frontal airbag for the rear seat deploys particularly gently, thanks to its innovative construction using a tubular structure.
With the rear-axle steering (optional equipment), the Mercedes-Maybach S680 4M is easy to maneuver, even in dense Indian city traffic. The steering angle at the rear axle is up to ten degrees. It reduces the turning circle of the S-Class by up to two metres. Exceptional ride comfort and agility is provided by the standard AIRMATIC air suspension.
Mr Rajeev Chaba – President and Managing Director MG Motor India unveiling All-New ZS EV
MG Motor India today announced the launch of its all-new ZS EV. The all-new ZS EV comes with the largest in-segment 50.3 kWh battery with advanced technology, offering a 461 kilometres certified range in a single charge.
The all-new ZS EV will be available in two variants (Excite and Exclusive), priced at INR 21,99,800 and INR 25,88,000, respectively. While the bookings for exclusive variant starts now, bookings for excite variant will start from July 2022.
The all-new ZS EV has been restyled with striking exterior design elements, comfortable and premium interior, first-in-segment features like Dual Pane Panoramic Skyroof, Digital Bluetooth Key, Rear Drive Assist, 360° Camera, i-SMART with 75+ Connected Car features, Hill Descent Control and much more. It also packs a globally certified (ASIL-D, IP69K and UL2580) battery that has passed eight special safety tests, including fire, collision, dust, smoke, etc.
Speaking on the launch, Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India said, “The demand for ZS EV has been encouraging since its launch, and the all-new ZS EV will further strengthen the brand connect with our EV customers. ZS EV has been a global success in key markets, including the UK, Europe and Australia. Committed to the future of electric mobility in India, we ensure a superior ownership experience by building a robust & sustainable EV ecosystem. With the all-new ZS EV, we are confident to change the mindset and accelerate EV adoption in India.”
The all-new ZS EV adopts MG’s signature global design cues and features a new electric design grill and 17-inch tomahawk hub design alloy wheels, offering superior aerodynamics while giving it a modern look. The Full LED Hawkeye headlamp and new LED tail lamps gives a fresh look and eye-catching design, making a powerful impression.
Customer comfort is at the core of the all-new ZS EV. Its advanced features and styling offer a luxurious, comfortable and convenient in-cabin experience to the customers with luxury and refined elegance. The premium leather-layered dashboard, the centre armrest and a dual-pane panoramic sky roof can immediately grab eyeballs in the renewed and modernised interior. The all-new ZS EV also enhances the comfort of rear-seat passengers who can now enjoy extraordinary comfort on every trip with the newly added rear centre headrest, rear centre armrest with cup holders and rear AC vents.
While the current ZS EV already has a relatively long list of innovative features, the all-new ZS EV builds upon it. It comes with a full digital cluster with a 17.78 cm (7-inch ) embedded LCD screen, a 10.1-inch HD touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, 5 USB Ports including 2 Type C charging ports, climate control through auto AC, and PM 2.5 Filter. It also includes an advanced i-SMART connectivity system with 75+ features to make the ride smart. The all-new ZS EV even features a Digital Bluetooth key that allows customers to drive without a physical key in select cases.
The all-new ZS EV ensures the utmost safety with 6 airbags, a 360-degree camera and hill descent control along with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and electronic stability control (ESC) for a smoother and controlled drive. The all-new ZS EV offers Rear Drive Assist features that enhance driver and passenger safety. These include Blind Spot Detection (BSD), which helps identify vehicles coming from a blind zone that are not detected by the outside rear view mirror. It also features Lane Change Assist (LCA), which warns the driver about possible collision hazards the moment the indicator is turned on. Finally, it offers a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) that detects cars that might be approaching from the rear left or right but are outside the range of the reverse camera and rear parking sensors.
The all-new ZS EV will now come with the largest in-segment 50.3kWH advanced technology battery that meets the best global safety standards (IP69K & ASIL-D). It is equipped with a new powerful motor that delivers the best-in-class power of 176PS and accelerates from 0 to 100 in just 8.5 seconds. Further, the battery has undergone eight special safety checks and received UL2580 global certification.
MG Motor is taking conscious steps towards strengthening the EV infrastructure in India. The brand has recently launched ‘MG Charge’, where 1,000 AC fast chargers will be installed at residential localities across India. In the past, MG has also partnered with companies like Fortum, Delta, eChargeBays, Exicom, Electreefi and Tata Power to introduce DC and AC fast chargers across the country.
The car is available in four exterior colour variants: Ferris White, Currant Red, Ashen Silver and Sable Black.
The all-new ZS EV is covered under MG eShield for private customers, wherein the automaker provides a free-of-charge 5-year warranty for unlimited kilometres, 8yrs / 1.5 lac KM warranty on the Battery Pack system, round-the-clock Roadside Assistance (RSA) for 5 years, and 5 Labour-free Services.
Kia India has announced the launch of its fourth and latest ‘Made-for-India’ offering, the three-row recreational vehicle, Carens with prices starting at INR 8.99 Lakhs (ex-showroom, pan-India).
The Kia Carens is available in five trim levels: Premium, Prestige, Prestige Plus, Luxury, and Luxury Plus. The vehicle comes in 7-seater configurations from Premium to Luxury trims, with the Luxury Plus trim offering both 6- and 7-seater configurations.
The Kia Carens is offered with three engine options: Smartstream 1.5 Petrol, Smartstream 1.4 T-GDi Petrol, and 1.5 CRDi VGT Diesel, mated with three transmissions – 6MT, 7DCT, or 6AT.
During an exclusive media drive event held in the national capital, we got an opportunity to spend some quality time with the Kia Carens. Read on to find out about everything you want to know about the Carens.
Design and Engineering
For the first time, the Carens’ styling introduces the “Opposites United” design language to India. The two main pillars on which Carens’ exterior development was based were futuristic and bold design. It is the result of a collaboration between the Kia Design Centre in Namyang, South Korea, and the Indian design team.
Key highlights of the exterior features Kia signature tiger face with digital front grille, star map LED DRLs with crown jewel LED headlamps, star map LED tail lamps, sky light sunroof, R16 – 40.62 cm (16-inch) dual tone crystal cut alloy wheels and chrome rear bumper garnish with diamond knurling pattern.
Kia Carens is available in eight colour options with three all-new colours – Imperial Blue (New Colour), Moss Brown (New Colour), Sparkling Silver (New Colour), Intense Red, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Grey, Glacier White Pearl and Clear White.
Interior and Comfort
The Carens interior is sophisticated and plush, wrapped around a high-tech dashboard specifically created to appeal to the always-connected consumer. The car’s interior has many storage spaces throughout the cabin, and the first-row seats are ventilated, adding to the car’s convenience factor. The Carens packaging is one of the most important factors to consider and offers adequate room for adults in the third row, thanks to the longest wheelbase in its class.
Key highlights of interior are 2nd row one-touch easy electric tumble seat, Bose premium sound system with eight speakers, smart pure air purifier with virus and bacteria protection, Kia Connect next gen connected car technology, ventilated front seats, 31.7 cm (12.5-inch) full segment LCD cluster with advanced 10.6 cm (4.2-inch) colour TFT multi-information display, cabin surround 64 colour ambient mood lighting and smartphone wireless charger with cooling function.
Powertrain and Transmission
Kia Carens offers a surprisingly wide range of powertrain choices in its class with three engine options – Smartstream 1.5 Petrol, Smartstream 1.4 T-GDi Petrol and 1.5 CRDi VGT Diesel. These are mated to three transmission options – 6-speed manual, an intuitive 7-speed DCT and 6-speed automatic. Additionally, automatic variants of the Carens offer multi-drive modes for added convenience and driver-confidence.
Ride and Handling
The Carens is supported at the front by McPherson struts and the rear by a coupled torsion beam axle setup. With disc brakes all around and across the board, the ride quality has been tuned to absorb everything in its path, providing a compliant ride quality and high comfort. Despite its external dimensions, the handling and maneuvering is nibble and the throttle response is both prompt and precise. Body roll is well contained and ground traction is impressive for its size.
Safety
The Kia Carens is a true family car, offering several active safety features. The model comes with Robust 10 Hi-Secure Safety Standard Package, a first in India. Included as standard across all trims of the Carens are 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill-Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist System (BAS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Rear Parking Sensors, Highline TPMS and All-Wheel Disc Brakes.
While the ESC protects the car from the loss of traction, HAC and DBC let drivers confidently drive on uphill and downhill roads. Additionally, the VSM ensures occupant safety by offering stability to the car when the driver must perform sudden braking and turns.
Continuing this focus on safety, the Company has also offered Front-Parking Sensors, Highline TPMS, and Rain-Sensing Wipers with the car, giving utmost confidence to the driver at all times and allowing them to fully focus on road conditions ahead.
Kia Connect
With Carens, the connected car platform gets a complete revamp with the next-generation Kia Connect app, which replaces the previous UVO system. Kia Connect now hosts updated and exciting features with added safety and convenience. One of the major updates with Kia Connect is the enhancement of OTA (Over the Air) Map and System Updates, which is now capable of updating software without visiting the Kia workshop. The Carens will come equipped with 66 connected car features and what is more exciting is that the AVNT of the vehicle now supports ten native languages.
Verdict
Kia Carens is a brilliantly packaged product suitable for slightly bigger Indian families who wish to travel together. The Carens is offered in as many as 19 variants with prices ranging from INR 8.99 to 16.99 lakhs – very aggressive pricing strategy by Kia, plus the wide range of variants will allow Kia to cater to an even more diverse set of customers.
In addition to the exciting pricing, the Carens also offers maintenance cost as low as 37 paisa per kilometre. The company continues to personalise the vehicle servicing process for its customers and offer a competitive maintenance cost for all its models in the country. The design is appealing, the interior is practical and spacious, the ride and handling is very comfortable and nimble – all of which makes this a great value proposition.
The Carens also offers a robust safety package which includes 6 airbags, DBC, VSM, HAC, ESC and All-Wheel Disc Brakes, to name a few, comes standard on all five trim levels, making the Kia Carens one of the safest family movers. With the Carens, Kia has produced a winner which is capable to rival the best in the segment.
Volvo Cars is integrating and testing a new wireless charging technology in a live city environment together with selected partners, evaluating its potential for future electric cars.
Over a three-year period, a small fleet of fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge cars will be used as taxis by Cabonline, the largest taxi operator in the Nordic region, and charged wirelessly at stations in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The wireless charging test is one of many projects outlined within the strategic initiative Gothenburg Green City Zone, under which designated areas within the city are used as live test beds for the development of sustainable technologies.
“Gothenburg Green City Zone lets us try exciting new technologies in a real environment and evaluate them over time for a potential future broader introduction,” said Mats Moberg, Head of Research and Development at Volvo Cars. “Testing new charging technologies together with selected partners is a good way to evaluate alternative charging options for our future cars.”
The charging stations used in the test are delivered by Momentum Dynamics, a leading provider of wireless electric charging systems. The charging starts automatically when a compatible vehicle parks over a charging pad embedded in the street, allowing drivers to conveniently charge without getting out of their car.
The charging station sends energy through the charging pad, which is picked up by a receiver unit in the car. To easily align the car with the charging pad, Volvo Cars will use its 360-degree camera system. For the fully electric XC40 Recharge cars, the wireless charging power will be more than 40kW, making the charging speeds around four times faster than a wired 11kW AC charger and almost as fast as a wired 50kW DC fast charger.
In total, the Volvo cars will be used for more than 12 hours a day and drive 100,000km per year, which also makes this the first durability test of fully electric Volvo cars in a commercial usage scenario.
Other partners involved in the wireless charging project include the company’s own Swedish retailers Volvo Bil and Volvo Car Sörred, Swedish energy company Vattenfall and its charging network InCharge, the city energy company Göteborg Energi, and Business Region Gothenburg, a municipal economic development agency owned by the City of Gothenburg.
Last year, Volvo Cars took part in launching the Gothenburg Green City Zone initiative, which aims to achieve emission-free transport by 2030. Using a real city as a testing ground will enable the company to accelerate development of technologies and services in the areas of electrification, shared mobility, autonomous driving, connectivity and safety.
Power Drive 