Bentley will be showing more than the future of coachbuilding when the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar is revealed on March 3.

The Bentley Mulliner Bacalar will be only the second two-seat Bentley since 1930. The two-seat layout and wraparound cockpit creates a luggage space behind the exquisitely stitched front seats, occupied by a bespoke pair of travel cases trimmed to match the interior materials, all of which are sustainably sourced.

Meticulously hand-built by Bentley Mulliner, the oldest coachbuilding operation in the world, the Bacalar is Grand Touring at its most exhilarating, and will be revealed on March 3, 2020. Joining it on the Bentley show stand at Geneva will be the new Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Convertible announced last week, along with the foundation of both the Bacalar’s design DNA and its ethically-sourced materials – Bentley’s centenary concept car, the EXP 100 GT.

Honda is set to debut the all-new Jazz and Jazz Crosstar at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, along with a range of electrified products and energy management innovations. Unified under new e:TECHNOLOGY branding, the line-up represents Honda’s ambition to provide a full range of electrified mobility and energy products to suit modern lifestyles.

Alongside the all-new Jazz, visitors to the show will also experience the full electric Honda e. These two models are the first of six to be launched that will see all Honda’s mainstream models in Europe electrified by 2022.

The all-new Jazz hatchback makes its European debut in Geneva, featuring advanced e:HEV two-motor hybrid powertrain technology as standard for the first time. Honda engineers have completely reimagined the iconic model from the ground up. In the process they conceived a compelling new proposition in the compact segment: a city car that combines efficiency with usability.

The new seamless and contemporary design evolution introduces a beautiful simplicity to the timeless shape of the Jazz. Its smooth contours form the instantly-recognisable monoform silhouette, adding a new emotional appeal to the class-leading levels of interior comfort and practicality for which the Jazz nameplate is renowned.

The all-new Jazz incorporates intuitive infotainment technology with seamless in-car connectivity to ensure occupants can stay connected. The Jazz also incorporates Honda Personal Assistant, an integrated Artificial Intelligence agent first seen in the Honda e.

To broaden the appeal of the model, the rugged Jazz Crosstar variant presents a more SUV-style proposition, orientated toward those with active lifestyles. Available with the same hybrid powertrain and interior features as the standard model, the new Jazz Crosstar features increased ride height, water-resistant upholstery and integrated roof rails.

The model’s visual presence is also bolstered by a bolder front grille design, substantial black trim and stylish side sills. The Crosstar-specific alloy wheels, which widen towards the rim, create an increased sense of stability and enhance the variant’s robust styling.

The Jazz and Honda e models will be joined in the e:TECHNOLOGY line-up by two CR-V Hybrid models, completing Honda’s 2020 line-up of electrified products.

Honda’s Geneva Motor Show stand will also showcase the brand’s line-up of e:HEV hybrid engines that feature on both the CR-V Hybrid and the new Jazz. The e:HEV system newly developed for the Jazz comprises two compact, energy-dense electric motors connected to a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and an innovative fixed-gear transmission via an intelligent power control unit. These advanced technologies work harmoniously together to provide a highly efficient, smooth and direct response.

Classic and vintage car restoration specialist Thornley Kelham is undertaking its most challenging project yet; a complete nut-and-bolt concours-standard restoration of a rare Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS, with an even more extraordinary history. This particular Alfa Romeo comes complete with records showing the car was delivered to its first owner, ‘II Duce’ Benito Mussolini, on January 13, 1930, for Lire 60,000.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS was one of the most popular and successful sports-racing cars of its day, as demonstrated by the fact that no fewer than 13 competed in the 1929 Mille Miglia, of which 8 finished, seven among the first ten including overall winner and third place. Cars were built up as rolling chassis, which were then bodied by coachbuilders including Carrozzerie touring and Zagato, and Stabilimenti Farina.

Extensive research by Thornley Kelham tracked down period black and white images of the exact car in Archivio Luce (the main archive for Cinecitta) in Italy, taken on April 29, 1931, showing Mussolini driving the car, as well as footage of Mussolini driving the car whilst leading ‘II Radio Auto-Raduno’ on a section of the rally from Roma to Ostia. It is these early images and film footage that help fie the clearest indication of the Alfa Romeo’s original appearance.

By enlarging one of the period photos, Thornley Kelham was finally able to establish that the Alfa Romeo was originally bodied by Stabilimenti Farina, thanks to the period carrozzeria badge at the base of the body near the rear wheel. At some point later in its life the body was modified into a stripped won, racing-focused body that it wears today. On March 21, 1937, the car was sold to a Renato Tigillo and then recorded as having been shipped to Asmara in August of that year. Since no change of ownership is to be found, it’s likely Tigillo took the car with him as he moved to Eritrea.

It is clear that the body changes took place while the 6C 1750 SS was in Eritrea, where it was adapted for racing. Images sourced of the car in Asmara reveal much of the bodywork had been removed to create a stripped-out racing car, bearing only a passing resemblance to the beautiful Farina creation it was born with. At the time, Eritrea was an Italian colony and many young Italians would take their cars to Asmara to live and race on hill climbs and street circuit races like the Coppa di Natale or the Coppa Governatore.

When this car was eventually inspected in the USA by Thornley Kelham, the bodywork had been fitted with an unoriginal grille and retained very little in the way of original panels. The chassis, rear axle and gearbox are, however, original to the car. With in-house paint, engine and body shops, Thornley Kelham is widely regarded for the quality of its award-winning restorations of historically significant, often unique vehicles across a variety of marques. The team have now been tasked by the car’s new owner with recreating the car’s original 1930 appearance which will involve several thousand hours of fabrication, engineering and assembly by its highly skilled workshop technicians.

Simon Thornley, co-founder of Thornley Kelham, said: “We’ve undertaken many challenging restorations here at Thornley Kelham but this Alfa Romeo presents us with perhaps our greatest test to date. Over the course of its extraordinary life it has been graced with a beautiful hand-crafted body from Stabilimenti Farina, owned and piloted by one of the world’s most (in)famous dictators, and stripped out for motorsport and raced on the streets of North Africa. Our challenge now is to restore it to the condition it first left Stabilimenti Farina’s carrozzeria, based on further painstaking research and thousands of hours of expert craftsmanship. Automotive history like this has to be preserved, and we are delighted to be involved in the latest page in its amazing story.”

Jaguar Land Rover has unveiled the bold new concept vehicle, Project Vector, as part of the company’s Destination Zero journey, offering its vision of an autonomous, electric, connected future for urban mobility.

Jaguar Land Rover’s Destination Zero mission is an ambition to make societies safer and healthier, and the environment cleaner. Delivered through relentless innovation, the company’s focus is on achieving a future of zero emissions, zero accidents and zero congestion – through its products, services and across its facilities.

As the next stage of that journey, the Project Vector concept showcases an advanced, flexible, multi-use electric vehicle that is ‘autonomy-ready’.

At the reveal, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Officer, Prof Sir Ralf Speth, commented: “Jaguar Land Rover understands the trends shaping modern societies. Project Vector shows Jaguar Land Rover as a leader in innovation to make our societies safer and healthier, and the environment cleaner. Through this project, we are collaborating with the brightest minds in academia, supply chain and digital services, to create connected, integrated mobility systems – the fundamental building blocks for Destination Zero. Project Vector is precisely the brave and innovative leap forward needed to deliver on our mission.”

The compact, flexible vehicle concept measures just four metres in length and is designed for the city, packaging all its battery and drivetrain components into a flat floor, to allow a variety of uses. The revolutionary interior cabin space allows seating configurations for private, or shared use and even the opportunity for commercial applications, such as last mile deliveries.

Project Vector concept has been created with the mission to raise the quality of future urban living. It has been developed at the National Automotive Innovation Centre to gain the advantages of working with agility and close collaboration with academic and external partners.

It will also address the wider landscape of mobility, from how customers connect with mobility services, to the infrastructure required to enable fully integrated, autonomous vehicles in our cities.

Dr. Tim Leverton, Project Director said: “The megatrends of urbanisation and digitalisation make connected urban mobility systems necessary and inevitable. Shared and private vehicles will share spaces with and be connected to public transit networks, so you can travel on demand and autonomously. That is a complex task, best achieved by working together with partners across the spectrum of vehicles, infrastructure and the digital world.

“With the technology and engineering power of Jaguar Land Rover, we can provide a unique opportunity for innovators to develop highly-functional urban mobility services, seamlessly integrated into everyday life.

“Future urban travel will be a composite of owned and shared vehicles, access to ride hailing and on-demand services as well as public transport. Our vision shows the vehicle as a flexible part of the urban mobility network that can be adapted for different purposes.”

The intention is to collaborate with Coventry City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority to plan a mobility service from late 2021, as a living laboratory for future mobility on the streets of Coventry.

Professor Dr Gero Kempf, Chief Engineer said: “It’s also a unique opportunity – a concept platform designed and engineered around urban centric use cases by a major car maker as a blank canvas, for developing tailored services and apps in the ecosystem of a smart city.”

Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman, Hero MotoCorp

At the recently held Hero World 2020, the Company reiterated its commitment to remain at the forefront of mass mobility, by showcasing to the media three new products, a world-class product accessory, and a display of the entire global product portfolio of Hero MotoCorp – the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters.

This was followed by the showcasing of several product concepts and business initiatives that showcase the seeds of its vision for the future of mass mobility, and provided a glimpse into the universe of Hero MotoCorp including the R&D labs, test-tracks, and technology.

Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman, Hero MotoCorp said: “Sustainability and responsible growth remain at the core of Hero MotoCorp’s technology, innovation and global expansion plans. With Hero World 2020,we have curated a novel and unique approach to showcase our future technologies, products and services.

“Over the next 5-7 years, we are aiming to create the next generation of mobility solutions that are relevant to customers across the world. To this end, we have earmarked an investment of Rs. 10,000 Crore along with our ecosystem, which will be utilized towards research and development of alternative mobility solutions, modern, state-of-the-art, sustainable manufacturing facilities, network expansion, and brand building across the globe.

“We are an ever-evolving, youth-centric, innovation led brand, that has remained the market-leader for nearly two-decades now, and yet we are not resting on our laurels. As we enter a new decade, we are aiming at ushering in the next wave of mass mobility that is accessible, convenient and environment-friendly, which is aligned with our rejuvenated Vision of ‘Be The Future of Mobility’.

The showstopper among the new products unveiled was the new Hero Xtreme 160R, which further strengthens the Company’s fast-growing presence in the premium motorcycle segment. TheXtreme 160R– that marks Hero MotoCorp’s entry into the popular 160cc motorcycle category – is an attractive product for youth, with its Xtreme performance, head turning aesthetics and agile handling.

Giving a complete makeover to the Passion brand, the company also launched the new modern and vibrant Hero Passion Pro. Packed with a 110cc BS-VI engine, the Passion Pro is attractively priced at Rs.64,990 (Self-drum Alloy) and Rs. 67,190 (Self-disc Alloy), ex-showroom Delhi.

The third product to be launched was the Hero Glamour 125cc, marking the generational upgrade of the motorcycle. The new Hero Glamour now comes equipped with a more efficient and sturdier BS-VI engine and will be available at Rs.68,900 (Self-drum Alloy) and Rs. 72,400 (Self-disc Alloy), ex-showroom Delhi.

Providing even more excitement for enthusiast and building on the cult of XPulse 200, Hero MotoCorp also launched the Hero XPulse 200 Rally Kit. Available as a complete kit for aspiring racers at Rs 38,000, the Rally Kit will be retailed at selected dealership from March onward. The Rally Kit adds to the XPulse 200’s supreme off-road capability and makes it the ideal motorcycle for amateurs and enthusiast to take-up off-roading.

Malo Le Masson, Head – Global Product Planning, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Constant innovation and cutting-edge technologies remain the hallmark of Hero MotoCorp. The new products and technologies showcased today display our pursuit to offer the most exciting, innovative and efficient products and technologies to our customers in markets across the world. The journey doesn’t stop, here we plan to strengthen our portfolio further and expect more exciting surprises in the future.”

Rohit Suri, President & Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India Ltd (JLRIL), at the launch of the Land Rover Discovery Sport

Jaguar Land Rover India, has announced the launch of the New Model Year 2020 Discovery Sport SUV. Available in the S and R-Dynamic SE derivatives, the New Discovery Sport is offered with BS-VI compliant 183 kW (249 PS) Ingenium Turbocharged Petrol powertrain and 132 kW (180 PS) Ingenium Turbocharged Diesel powertrain options.

Rohit Suri, President & Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India Ltd (JLRIL), said:
The New Discovery Sport is a bold evolution of the original design, incorporating the latest in technological advancements. Fuelling the spirit of adventure, the vehicle consists of improved features that not only enhance the capability of the vehicle but also elevate the complete driving experience. It further strengthens the distinctive design and versatility that has made the Discovery Sport one of the leading models in the Land Rover portfolio.”

The new Discovery Sport features transformed interior, bold new exteriors and new enabling technologies that increases its overall appeal. Elevating the bold exterior design, the New Discovery Sport, now includes the all-new premium LED headlights with Daytime Running Lights, rear LED lights and Animated Directional Indicators.

New Discovery Sport comes with its 5+2 seating and an advanced 26.08 cm (10.2-inch) Touch Pro screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Technology highlights include Clear Sight Interior Rear View Mirror as well as the Terrain Response 2 technology to automatically detect and adjust as per the surface being driven on, a 31.24 cm (12.3) Interactive Driver Display, wireless charging, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and more

Powered by BS-VI compliant Ingenium powertrains, the New Discovery Sport is available with a choice of 2.0-litre Turbocharged Petrol with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 249 PS and 365 Nm of torque or a 2.0-litre Turbocharged Diesel producing 180 PS and 430 Nm of torque

Delivery of the diesel powered New Land Rover Discovery Sport has now begun, and is priced at Rs 57.06 Lakh for the S derivative and Rs 60.89 Lakh for the R-Dynamic SE trim. Start of deliveries of petrol powered Discovery Sport will be subsequent to start of diesel and will be announced separately.

Volvo Car India has successfully introduced BS VI Certified cars across its range from February 2020. All cars assembled at the plant or imported are now BS VI Certified. This comes from Volvo Car India’s commitment towards providing more and more sustainable products to its esteemed customers. There will be no price increase till 31st March, 2020

“The transition from BS IV to BS VI has been challenging, especially keeping in mind the industry’s performance in 2019. I am extremely proud of my team and our partners who have been relentless in making sure a smooth shift to BS VI well before the deadline. As a gesture to our customers owning an environment friendly BS VI Volvo Car this financial year, we do not have any price increase for our BS VI certified cars till 31st March 2020” said Charles Frump – Managing Director, Volvo Car India.

Hyundai Motor Company will unveil its new concept EV, ‘Prophecy’, expressing the company’s latest design language, at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show, on March 3, 2020. The concept will remain on display until March 15.

In line with Hyundai’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design philosophy, the new concept embodies a beautiful silhouette accentuated by graceful curves flowing over broad rear flanks that provide excellent aerodynamics. The boat-tail line created by the rear quarter panels are complemented by the integrated spoiler and pixel lamp taillights.

“Prophecy does not follow trends. It accentuates timeless beauty that will stand the test of time,” said SangYup Lee, Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “Its iconic design stands to expand Hyundai’s design spectrum toward even broader horizons.”

The name ‘Prophecy’ reflects the concept’s purpose, defining the direction of future Hyundai designs, while establishing itself as a design icon for Hyundai’s EV lineup.

 

Hero MotoCorp, has introduced ‘Hero Connect’, a cloud-based solution bringing smart riding experience for customers. Hero Connect, the app for connected mobility will be offered across segments with initial readiness in four models, including XPulse 200, Pleasure+, Passion XPRO and HF Deluxe.

Offering security and safety through features like Live Tracking,Topple Alerts, Tow Away Alert, Geo Fence Alert, Speed Alert, etc; Hero Connect ensures safety when on the move or while parked. Driving insights based on the riders’ behavioural patterns is another core feature of this technology, thus helping in accessing logs and trip analysis for an enhanced and safe riding experience.

Launched at an introductory price of Rs 4,999/ (inclusive of taxes), Hero Connect is available at select dealerships in Noida, Delhi and Pune, with a one-year subscription. The technology will be made available across more models and expanded to other cities in a phased manner.

Malo Le Masson, Head of Global Product Planning, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Following the XPulse 200, the first motorcycle to offer connectivity through mobile phone to riders, Hero Connect offers the next level of connectivity. With this new cloud-enabled servicewe aim toenhance the riding experience of our customers,at the same time making their overall experience safer and smarter.

Hero Connect uses the Telematics Hardware with a built-in SIM that is securely fitted in the Vehicle. It uses the cellular network to provide a gateway for communication between the application and device. While the cloud will store the data, the App will receive the information from the cloud and display it on the mobile. Wherever you are and wherever your two-wheeler is, you are always connected.

Key Features:

Added Security
Hero Connect empowers the rider with added security benefits for the vehicle. Designed to relay real-time information, the app will track the current location of the vehicle, along with its speed and accurate drive path. It will also detect unauthorized movement and send tow away alert as well as Geo-Fence alerts if the vehicle crosses the pre-configured circular area set by the user.

Propagating Rider Safety
Hero Connect is enabled with an alert mechanism, which sends a notification and SMS to the user and emergency contacts in case of vehicle topple or accident,ensuring quick action during rider distress.

Driving Insights
Hero Connect also features access to a detailed log of the trip and reports the analysis based on riding and behavioral patterns of the rider. The app scores the rider and gives feedback, using parameters such as hard acceleration, hard brakes, speeding and idling. Users will be able to review all the past trips, up to past six months, with details such as starting point and end location, total distance, total time taken, routes driven and speed alerts, if the two-wheeler crosses the user-defined speed limit.

In order to highlight and emphasize the need for safer roads, Bridgestone India commemorated the National Road Safety Week. Bridgestone believes in a holistic 360 degree road safety which includes driver health, driving skills and pedestrian knowledge. With this in mind and keeping in view its CSR philosophy of ‘Our Way to Serve’ Bridgestone India conducted more than 12 camps, benefiting 500 drivers and creating awareness among students in more than 200 schools.

“As a mobility solutions provider, we have a responsibility towards better road safety. Road Safety is a combination of man and machine and it is with this that we primarily focus on upgrading driving skills, ensuring good health of drivers and catching them young by imparting road safety awareness to more than one lakh students.” said Parag Satpute, Managing Director, Bridgestone India

As part of its various initiatives, 200 rural schools were approached as a platform to create awareness to around 1,50,000 students and nurtured over 600 road safety champions in collaboration with the Traffic police and education departments. To cater to the healthcare needs of drivers of 10 fleets across India, Health Camps were organized wherein more than 500 drivers benefitted. First Aid Pouches were also distributed amongst the fleet drivers.

Under Bridgestone’s flagship initiative, Project Sarthi, which focuses on skilling the Heavy Motor Vehicle Drivers in conjunction with the Institute of Driver Training & Research (IDTR), 70 trainee drivers underwent extensive training on enhancing driving skills and safety. They were awarded certificates after completing the 45 days training period. In addition, these drivers took a pledge towards safe driving practices.

All the Bridgestone India employees participated with full fervour and commitment during the Road Safety Week and undertook a pledge to reinforce road safety practices.