Tag: automotive

BYD Becomes World’s First Automaker to Provide Full Damage Coverage for Both Intelligent Parking and Urban NOA

Joydip SurLeave a comment

BYD has announced Full Damage Coverage for the Urban Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) function of its God’s Eye – BYD Driver Assistance System in China. The company made the landmark announcement at its Intelligence Strategy Launch Event, where it also unveiled China’s first 4nm automotive Driving System on a Chip (SoC), the XUANJI A3.

With this new offer, following its commitment to Intelligent Parking, BYD has now become the world’s first automaker to offer such dual coverage for its advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). Furthering its “Intelligent Driving for All” strategy, BYD also announced that its entire vehicle lineup can now be optionally equipped with the God’s Eye LiDAR Version.

BYD’s vision for the era of Intelligent Driving is defined by three ambitious goals of achieving Zero Traffic Accidents, enabling the ADAS to serve as a Super Driver, and empowering AI to become a Super Personal Assistant. To realize this vision, the company will continue to invest over RMB 100 billion (£10,987,650,000) in Intelligent Driving Assistance R&D, focusing on safety technologies for every family.

BYD’s Full Damage Coverage Sets a New Industry Standard for Trust
The one-year Full Damage Coverage guarantee applies to new buyers and existing owners who upgrade to God’s Eye 5.0 in the Chinese market. The policy states that if a legally-liable accident occurs while a user is operating the Urban NOA function in compliance with regulations, BYD will directly cover all resulting economic losses.

The confidence to make this industry‑leading commitment rests on three foundational pillars. The first is its massive scale, with a fleet of over 3.15 million Intelligent Driving Assistance vehicles on the road—the largest among Chinese automakers—providing an unparalleled foundation of real‑world data for continuous iteration. The second is the abundant data generated by the God’s Eye, with over 124 million miles logged daily, ensuring rapid algorithmic learning and improvement. The third pillar is a dedicated R&D team of 5,000 engineers, the largest in China’s automotive industry, powering the company’s sustained technological innovation.

AI Empowerment—BYD Integrated Vehicle Intelligence Delivers Next-Gen Performance
The God’s Eye receives four major upgrades. These include a new XUANJI Architecture 2.0, an industry‑first satellite sensor architecture, an upgraded physical AI large model, and a self‑evolving data flywheel built on massive real‑world scenarios.

In the cockpit, BYD introduced the DiLink AI Intelligent Cockpit, featuring the super intelligent agent. This hyper‑realistic digital assistant offers proactive task execution and deep reasoning capabilities, delivering an all‑scene, continuously evolving in-car experience.

BYD Self-developed 4nm Driving SoC, Gearing Up for High‑Level Autonomous Driving
BYD unveiled the XUANJI A3, China’s first self‑developed 4nm automotive‑grade Driving SoC. It natively supports L3 and L4 autonomous driving, and a three-chip configuration can deliver over 2,100 TOPS of computing power per vehicle. With the most advanced 4nm process and the lowest power consumption per TOPS—20% lower than comparable products—the XUANJI A3 is already in mass production. When combined with BYD’s proprietary algorithms, it doubles computing utilization, significantly raising the ceiling for both safety and performance.

From Blade Battery to Intelligent Driving, BYD’s Focus on Safety and Trust Remains Constant
In the industry’s electrification phase, the Blade Battery was BYD’s answer to user concerns about safety. Now, in the era of Intelligent Driving, BYD applies the same core principle. The company’s strategy is to push the limits of ADAS capabilities with the God’s Eye, bolster user confidence through its Full Damage Coverage offer, and shape the future of mobility with self-developed technologies like the XUANJI A3 chip.

Through this strategy, BYD reaffirms its dedication to leveraging technological innovation for a better, safer drive for all.

BMW Group India Launches BMW Summer Service Campaign 2026

Joydip SurLeave a comment

BMW Group India has announced the launch of BMW Summer Service Campaign 2026 across its nationwide dealer network, reinforcing its commitment to proactive customer care and premium ownership experience. The campaign is designed to ensure seamless mobility during the demanding summer months through preventive maintenance, expert diagnostics and exclusive service benefits.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “Indian summers can be tough, both for drivers and their cars. At BMW Group India, we believe a truly premium ownership experience goes beyond the vehicles we build. It is about the confidence and peace of mind we provide throughout the ownership journey. With the BMW Summer Service Campaign 2026, we are helping customers prepare better through timely preventive maintenance and advanced vehicle diagnostics for hassle free driving through summers. Our aim is to make proactive care simple, transparent, and reliable so that customers can enjoy every drive without worry. We remain committed to delivering seamless and precise service that ensures the performance, reliability and effortless driving pleasure that define the BMW experience.

The campaign aims to ensure customers are well prepared for the summer season with a list of prescribed checks. The campaign combines preventive vehicle inspection with value-added benefits and expert guidance to support effective vehicle management and on-time maintenance. Customers can book prior appointments for servicing at their preferred workshop and may also update their personal details to receive relevant service communications and offers from their authorised BMW dealer.

Following are the complimentary services covered under BMW Summer Service Campaign 2026:

  • AC Filter Check
  • Air Filter Check
  • Tyre Condition Check
  • Complimentary Battery Check*
  • Up to 10% off on AC Fumigation
  • Up to 25% off on labour on any AC related repair
  • Up to 10% off on any VAS (Value Added Services)

*Complimentary Battery Check will be applicable only on non-EV vehicles.

Customers can also explore a wide range of BMW accessories to enhance the appearance and everyday functionality of their vehicles.

BMW India conducts periodic service campaigns across the country to help ensure that every BMW remains ready for the road. Cars older than five years can also benefit from special advantages under the ‘BMW Joy Rewards’ programme. Details of the offers and recommended vehicle checks will be available at participating authorised workshops during the campaign period.

Audi A2 e-tron Clocks Up Test Miles

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Audi will unveil the new A2 e-tron in autumn 2026, complementing its portfolio with an all-electric entry-level model family in the compact class. The A2 e-tron, manufactured in Ingolstadt, will rejuvenate the Audi model range and broaden access to premium electric mobility.

At the Audi Annual Media Conference, CEO Gernot Döllner announced the A2 e-tron – the brand’s next big step on the road to a consistently electric future. The prototype is undergoing various tests before it premieres in autumn: the camouflaged A2 e-tron is clocking up vital test miles on snow and ice, in the wind tunnel at Audi Technical Development in Ingolstadt, and on public roads.

Cold weather trial in Scandinavia
Icy temperatures, snow-covered roads, and slippery test tracks on a frozen lake: during winter testing in Lapland, the A2 e-tron is showing what it is made of under extreme conditions. The validation process at a secret test site in northern Sweden focuses not only on driving dynamics but also on thermal management and battery performance. The interplay of the electric drive, brake control system, and suspension is adjusted by the minute – for the unmistakable experience of driving an Audi.

Aerodynamic optimisation in the wind tunnel in Ingolstadt
The distinctive roofline lends the A2 e-tron a strong character and is also the reason for its outstanding aerodynamics, which are constantly being tested and optimised in the wind tunnel at Audi Technical Development. With wind speeds of up to 300 kmph, ultra-precise aeroacoustic measurement, and a 235 kmph rolling road, the wind tunnel provides ideal conditions for optimising the airflow characteristics, noise development, and thermal stability of the A2 e-tron.

Road testing in Bavaria’s winding valleys
Inclines, variable road surfaces, and tight bends: the development team is using the diverse conditions of the Altmühl Valley region in Bavaria to test the finely balanced suspension and assistance systems in real road traffic. Here, the A2 e-tron demonstrates its everyday usability.

Production in Ingolstadt
The fully electric A2 e-tron is built at the Audi headquarters in Ingolstadt, underlining the company’s commitment to transforming its plants in Germany and Europe. After more than 20 new models in 2024 and 2025, Audi now has the youngest portfolio among the competition – from the fully electric compact segment to the premium full-size segment. The company will stay on this path in 2026.

Bridgestone India Launches ‘Feel the Bridgestone Difference’ Campaign to Show How the Right Tyres Make Every Drive Better

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Bridgestone India has launched its new brand campaign, ‘Feel the Bridgestone Difference’, built around a simple but powerful thought—every car is designed for a certain level of performance, but it can only deliver its true potential when fitted with the right tyres. The campaign highlights one of the most overlooked component in the car that is tyre – when in reality tyre is the critical contact point between the car and the road.

Whether it is control, safety, confidence, or a smoother driving experience, tyres play a much bigger role than most people realise. A car may be engineered to perform at its best, but without the right tyre fitment, that experience remains incomplete. Bridgestone tyres are designed to help drivers unlock that full potential and truly feel the difference in every journey.

For the last 30 years, Bridgestone India has been delivering that difference to Indian consumers. With a strong focus on technology, manufacturing excellence, innovation, and quality, the company has built products that stand apart—and customers can feel that difference every time they drive.

A key highlight of the campaign is the difference that Bridgestone tyres are making by constantly staying ahead of the curve without any compromise. It offers better grip, stronger braking, smoother handling, lower road noise, improved fuel efficiency, and longer tyre life, creating a more balanced, comfortable, and reliable driving experience.

The campaign also takes inspiration from nature, featuring animals like the mountain goat, the cheetah and a rhino—symbols of grip, speed, unyielding strength and control in their natural terrains. Just as they move effortlessly in challenging environments, Bridgestone tyres are built to perform confidently across India’s diverse road and driving conditions.

Speaking about the campaign, Rajiv Sharma, Executive Director – Sales and Marketing, Bridgestone India, said: “Bridgestone has been a trusted name for Indian consumers, and that trust has come from consistently delivering safe, high-quality products and a superior driving experience. Our customers have experienced the Bridgestone difference over the years—whether in better control, smoother rides, or long-lasting performance. ‘Feel the Bridgestone Difference’ is a campaign people will instantly relate to because it reflects something they have already felt. With this campaign, we want to take that experience to a larger audience and help more people understand how the right tyre fitment can completely transform the way a car performs.”

The campaign highlights the performance Bridgestone tyres offer and it is a reminder that while every car has built-in potential, the right tyres are what truly bring it to life.

The campaign will be promoted across multiple platforms across the country, further strengthening Bridgestone India’s promise of performance, safety, and reliability for every driver.

100 Years of the ‘Ring. One Seven. Caterham Unveils the Nürburgring Limited-Edition

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Caterham has launched its latest limited-edition model, the Seven Nürburgring Edition, to celebrate 100 years of the most legendary and demanding circuit in the world.

Only 100 examples of the Nürburgring Edition will be made available to customers globally, based on either a Seven 420R or a Seven 340R, market dependent, with prices starting in the UK from £48,995 (inc VAT).

The bespoke race suspension has been developed exclusively for this model by Bilstein, using its advanced vertical dynamics test rig at the Bilstein Test Facility. Engineered specifically around the demands of the Nürburgring, the suspension setup was refined to deliver exceptional capability on both road and track. The result is a suspension package tailored specifically for this unique limited edition.

Teamed with a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre Ford Duratec Engine, it delivers 210bhp at 7,600rpm for a power-to-weight ratio of 375bhp/tonne. Paired with a five-speed gearbox, the Nürburgring Edition accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds and tops out at a top speed of 136mph.

Alongside the custom-developed Bilstein damping and performance, there are several visual additions inside and out to match. As a fully licensed Nürburgring product, the edition features the distinctive branding and logo from the circuit, as well as the iconic red and grey colours available as paint finishes. These include a choice of three Nürburgring paint colours – Verkehrsrot (Traffic Red), Achatgrau (Agate Grey) and Basaltgrau (Basalt Grey), whilst custom paint colours are also available.

Other exterior upgrades include a Nürburgring “red” track day roll bar, a Nürburgring mesh grill with Seven logo in dual colour and a 620-style nosecone with carbon aero whiskers. The chassis colour is a distinctive Gunmetal Grey and the car features carbon front wings, Black Pack (black windscreen, headlamp bowls and exhaust heat shield), composite aero screen and LED rear lights clusters.

On the interior, the leather seats are complete with Nürburgring embroidery and red stitching, which is also found on the transmission tunnel. This is alongside carbon interior panels, a four-point road harnesses and sequential shift lights.

As the final touch, each car has an individually numbered plaque for each of the 100 units produced.

For a century, the fondly named ‘Green Hell’s’ 12.9-mile track in the Eifel Mountains in west Germany has been the ultimate proving ground for both car and driver.

Along with its changing elevation and camber across its 73 corners, the Nürburgring is a site where Caterham’s road and race cars have flourished for decades. Most notably, an 11th place finish at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2002, which saw an outstanding drive by Chris Cooper, Chris Harris, Clive Richards and Peter Haynes.

Trevor Steel, Senior Vice President of Operations, Caterham Cars, said: “For a century, this track has championed values that are at the heart of what the Seven is all about – balance, precision and an unmatched driving experience.

“We set out to capture the spirit of the ‘Ring, with every element of the car being honed to reflect the track’s unique demands and character. Designed both for use on the track and the road, the Seven Nürburgring Edition is a unique vehicle that perfectly pays tribute to this famous, globally renowned circuit”.

The Caterham Seven Nürburgring Edition will be unveiled at the upcoming 2026 ADAC 24 hours of Nürburgring.

Motorsport fans attending the event can see the model at the Caterham Nürburgring dealership and on the Bilstein stand in the paddock across the weekend.

Vision BMW Alpina Revealed

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Revealed at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the Vision BMW Alpina is a design study that heralds a new chapter for a brand defined by extreme capability, sophistication, and the mastery of both performance and comfort.

“Alpina has always represented a very specific idea of performance and re finement—where speed and comfort are complementary ambitions. Our role as the new custodians of this brand is to preserve this distinctiveness and shape it for a contemporary context,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design. “Vision BMW ALPINA shows how these qualities can be expressed with discipline and modernity, suggesting what our direction is for this brand as we move it into the future.”

DESIGN AND FORM: THE SHAPE OF SPEED
The Vision BMW Alpina is a respectful interpretation of the brand’s heritage, shaped by the most contemporary creative instincts. At 5,200 mm in length, its presence is substantial: wide, low, and confident. The coupé roofline is long and raked, its form immediately signals both speed and the ability to accommodate four adults in genuine comfort. A V8 powertrain drives the experience, tuned to produce the characteristic notes of the Alpina exhaust: rich and deep at low speed, sonorous at high revs.

“In Vision BMW ALPINA, we distil every element of the brand to its essence and apply it in a deeply modern and sophisticated way,” says Maximilian Missoni, head of BMW Design Midsize & Luxury Cars and BMW ALPINA. “Every detail reflects substance: in engineering, in materials, and in the story it tells. The statements it makes are subtle and revealed only on a closer read. This interplay between purity and richness defines our approach to BMW ALPINA design.”

The front end is defined by powerful volumes and a forward-leaning stance that promises speed without overstatement. The shark nose reinterprets BMW’s kidney grille as a three-dimensional sculpture that leads the car’s form and frames the brand emblem with quiet confidence.

From this shark nose, the exterior is organized around a single visual axis: the speed feature line. Rising from the lower front corners at a six-degree inclination, it runs along the side of the body and wraps around the rear—assertive enough to suggest motion, controlled enough to remain refined.

HALLMARKS AND PRINCIPLES: “SECOND READ” SOPHISTICATION
Subtle secondary details reward attention without demanding it. This “Second Read” principle runs throughout the Vision BMW Alpina.

Deco-lines have been part of Alpina’s language since 1974. For the Vision BMW ALPINA, the modernized deco-lines are distilled and painted on the side of the body beneath the clear coat—a quiet gesture that reflects how the brand’s defining details can be adapted to what comes next.

Inward-facing return surfaces are treated with particular care, finished in a dark metallic tone that rewards a closer read. This approach is inspired by the BMW 507, which uses chrome only on the inside of its kidney grilles.

The shark nose captures the same “Second Read” sophistication: the inner surfaces feature a finely scaled signature Deco-line graphic, while a concealed, softly backlit perimeter reveals it only when active.

A warm white tone characterizes the daytime running lights and traces the kidney surrounds, inspired by the first light over the Bavarian Alps. Clear-cut illuminated crystals add a precise highlight within the slender lamps.

The elliptical four-pipe exhaust remains, as does the “ALPINA” lettering—re interpreted as a machined, polished metal element on the lower front apron. The 22-inch front and 23-inch rear wheels feature the 20-spokes design that has been a constant at Alpina since 1971.

INTERIOR AND DETAILS: ARCHITECTURAL CLARITY
The cabin is generous in every sense: space, material quality, and the care with which technology has been integrated. Architectural volumes define the layout, with each element designed as a standalone form, not absorbed into a homogeneous interior.

The six-degree speed feature line continues through the interior, dividing the darker upper segment and the lighter lower segment. Full-grain leather— sourced from producers across the Alpine region—pairs with stitching inspired by the Deco-lines.

Craft details are restrained but well considered: a bridge stitch inspired by historic steering wheel hand-stitching appears sparingly in heritage blue and green colors, while a watchmaking-inspired beveling technique was used for the metal components, combining satin and polished finishes. Clear-cut crystal is reserved for the controls that shape how the automobile drives, under lining the value BMW Alpina places on the driving experience itself.

Behind the rear console, a glass water bottle sits beside BMW Alpina crystal glasses that rise on a self-deploying mechanism. Each glass is engraved with 20 deco-lines and features a six-degree rim profile, held by concealed mag nets and softly lit against the open-grain center console.

A COMFORTABLE DRIVER IS A FASTER DRIVER
Burkard Bovensiepen understood something much of the automotive world has forgotten: a comfortable driver is a faster driver. That belief remains central to the Vision BMW Alpina. Alpina offers Comfort+, a setting beyond the standard BMW comfort calibration that delivers a more supple, refined char acter, and it is retained here.

BMW Panoramic iDrive, including the new passenger screen, spans the dash board with a digital user interface language crafted specifically for BMW AL PINA. Heritage blue and green are introduced with discipline, intensifying as the driver moves from Comfort+ to Speed mode within the BMW Panoramic Vision head-up display. The background imagery is equally considered. The Alpine landscape depicted is an exact rendering of the mountain range visible when looking south from Buchloe.

ROOTED IN THE BRAND’S ORIGINS
The Alpina story began in 1965 in Buchloe, Germany, a small Bavarian town in the shadow of the Alps. Burkard Bovensiepen—destined for a career in typewriter manufacturing—chose instead high-performance tuning, founding Alpina and then refining BMW road and racing cars. From the outset, his philosophy was clear: speed and comfort were complementary, not competing ambitions.

In endurance racing, while rivals stripped weight, Burkard added extra pad ding to the driver’s seat: he understood that a more comfortable driver is a faster driver. That insight carried over to the road cars that followed, celebrated for composure and sophistication at high speed over long distances.

ALPINA B7 COUPÉ: A POINT OF MATURITY
The Alpina B7 coupé of the late 1970s marked a turning point: Alpina’s philosophy was applied to a luxury car, and every model that followed was recognized as luxurious. Based on the BMW E24 6 Series, its long bonnet, wide stance, and shark nose looked fast even at rest, while the cabin could comfortably carry four people across a continent. The Vision BMW Alpina is the next chapter of that story.

BMW ALPINA—AN EXCLUSIVE BRAND WITHIN THE BMW GROUP
BMW Alpina became an exclusive brand within the BMW Group in 2026, bringing proven stewardship and a clear responsibility: to understand what Alpina means to those who cherish it and to honor that in what follows.

“BMW ALPINA fills a gap in our portfolio between BMW and Rolls-Royce as we see even more potential in the high-end segment. With Alpina we have a strong legacy and a global community, which we want to build on, while pre serving the essence of what the brand stands for—speed, comfort and sophistication,“ says Oliver Viellechner, head of BMW ALPINA.

Next year, customers will be able to experience the first model of the BMW Alpina brand—inspired by the BMW 7 Series, but unmistakably BMW Alpina.

The All-New BMW M440i xDrive Convertible Launched In India

Joydip SurLeave a comment

The all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,09,00,000. This eye-catching convertible will be available in the country as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) model from today onwards.

The all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible stands for the perfect combination of driving pleasure and elegant sporty design. These have been hallmark brand values of BMW since its earliest days, and this convertible embodies them even more intently than ever. This evolution is best felt with the top down, where the rush of the open air meets the sharpened performance of an M-tuned athlete. By combining a classic soft-top silhouette with modern agility, the all-new BMW M440i xDrive ensures the freedom of outdoor driving is always felt alongside world-class precision.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible exemplifies BMW’s passion for combining exhilarating performance with timeless elegance. With its unmistakable design, powerful M tuned performance and refined open top driving experience, it delivers a new expression of sporting freedom. At BMW Group India, we are proud to introduce a convertible that not only excites behind the wheel, but also represents a distinctive, aspirational lifestyle for our customers.”

Sporting potency and elegance are the key themes reflected with authenticity in the design of the all-new BMW M440i. The visually powerful front end shaped by sharp adaptive LED headlights and a vertically arranged BMW kidney grille in High Gloss Black give the car an aggressive look. The headlights are complimented by the M Lights Shadowline line which adds a sporty black tint making for an imposing front fascia. The imposing rear too showcases true sportiness with the M rear diffuser in high gloss black. The new CSL Style taillights inspired from M4 CSL, with their intricate woven laser pattern provide an even greater appeal. The attractive new 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design in a bi-colour finish and mixed tyre profile are lightweight, durable and attention-grabbing.

The all-new BMW M440i will be available in eight striking colours – Portimao Blue, Brooklyn Grey, Cape York Green, Fire Red, Arctic Race Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Alpine white. For those seeking a truly bespoke finish, further individualisation is possible upon request to ensure the vehicle is a unique reflection of your taste. Inside, the cabin can be tailored with Sensatec upholstery available in Black, Tacora Red, or Cognac.

A highlight feature is its panel bow soft-top roof, which combines the solidity of a retractable hardtop with the classical aesthetic of a fabric hood. The roof’s electric drive mechanism can be activated while travelling at up to 50 km/h; the opening/closing process takes 18 seconds.

Step inside the all-new BMW M440i and you are greeted with a sleek and sophisticated interior. The large BMW Curved Display brings a fresh and particularly modern interpretation of the driver focus for which the brand is renowned. The Luxury Instrument Panel with Sensatec makes for an even more sophisticated appearance in the cockpit. The sensatec perforated Sports Seats come with electric adjustments, memory and lumbar support. The M leather steering wheel in three-spoke design with a flat-bottomed rim and a discreet centre marking stands out with its modern and sporty design. Now fitted as standard, the paddles enable particularly swift manual interventions in the gear selection process and underscores the car’s sharper sporty profile. The new Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M interior trim with ambient lighting offers an elegant feel. Also available are M Seat belts with a woven stripe pattern in BMW M GmbH colours. Harman Kardon surround sound system with 12 speakers provides an intense musical feast for the ears.

The all-new BMW M440i is powered by the iconic B58 inline 3-litre 6-cylinder engine which produces an output of 374 hp and 500 Nm maximum torque. This makes it the most powerful car in its segment. It is accompanied by a characteristic sound thanks to the M Sport exhaust unit. The 48V mild hybrid setup significantly improves performance as well as efficiency. The car completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/hr in 4.9 seconds, that makes it the fastest car in the segment. The top speed is 250 km/h.

The eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it is available with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function as standard.

BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. The standard M Sport rear differential enhances traction and cornering by electronically controlling the distribution of power to each individual wheel. It helps to avoid understeer and oversteer in situations involving multiple changes of direction and load. With kinematics and elastokinematics tuned for dynamic driving, the Adaptive M suspension offer significantly increased sportiness without compromising driving comfort. The Variable Sport Steering is precise and responsive even when only a slight steering input is applied. M Sport brakes provide excellent braking performance and intuitive feel, whether negotiating city streets or driving around a circuit on a track day. The brake callipers are painted red and display the M logo.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. Host of ConnectedDrive features include Digital Key Plus, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information and Remote Services through MyBMW app. BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding 14.9” BMW Curved Display with Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and BMW Head-up Display.

The latest BMW iDrive with Operating System 8.5, offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Wireless smartphone integration and regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

My BMW App keeps an eye on vehicle status and includes ‘Learning Navigation’ which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on driving habits. BMW Digital Key Plus turns a smartphone into a vehicle key enabling remote locking / unlocking and driving the car.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant with 360 surround view makes parking in tight spots easier. 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 Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control. An Adaptive M suspension tuned with Bespoke chassis technology for a sporty driving experience offers excellent body rigidity for a sportiness and comfortable ride. Intelligent lightweight design, 50: 50 weight distribution and optimized aerodynamic properties provide an ideal basis for endowing the all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible with remarkably agile and dynamic handling abilities.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, Tyre Pressure Indicator, ISOFIX child seat mounting and tyre repair kit.

The New MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Pack Launched In India

Joydip SurLeave a comment

The new MINI Convertible John Cooper Works Pack was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 61,50,000. The car will be available in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked at all MINI India dealerships. Deliveries for the same will commence immediately.

The latest generation of MINI Convertible perfectly embodies the brand’s openness. Whether in the city, on winding hills or on the long stretches, the MINI Convertible offers pure freedom and go-kart thrills.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The new MINI Convertible has always been the ultimate expression of open-top freedom, and with the introduction of the John Cooper Works Pack, we are taking its unmistakable character a step further. This edition is for those who want their MINI to reflect a bold, assertive personality without losing the signature ‘go-kart’ feel they love. By blending premium design with the joy of open-air motoring, the MINI Convertible JCW Pack is a car that looks as fast as it feels, delivering a sporty JCW aesthetic that perfectly complements your cruises.”

The exterior design of the new MINI Convertible JCW Pack focuses on classic MINI characteristics. The front end shows the typical face of the brand with its iconic round headlights and the newly designed front grille. The exterior colour options legend grey or midnight black are complemented by mirror caps & sport stripes in black for the legend grey exterior colour. The John Cooper Works trim stands out with unique design features of the grille, bumpers, side skirts, and door entry sills. The piano black exterior trim and wheel arches add to the sporty look of the car.

Standard LED headlights have three light signatures to emphasise the car’s character. A specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation with MINI logo projections on the sides enhances the emotional connection even before you get in. On the side, the clean sporty lines create a striking contrast along with the short overhangs and long proportions. To match the unmistakable driving fun, this MINI is available with aerodynamically optimized 17-inch JCW sprint spoke black alloys. The rear view is characterised by the flush design of the vertically aligned oval shaped LED rear lights. The rear section features a black handle strip with striking model badge, whose horizontal alignment emphasises the MINI Convertible JCW Pack’s wide stance.

The high-quality black soft top protects the occupants in all weathers. The electrically folding soft top can be fully opened in 18 seconds, even at speeds of up to 30 kmph. At the same time, the window bars and side windows are lowered to provide a completely unobstructed view of the surroundings. The soft top closes in 15 seconds at the touch of a button. It can also be partially opened to act as a sunroof, to a length of 40 centimetres, regardless of speed. When the top is open, the MINI Convertible JCW Pack has a luggage compartment volume of 160 litres. When closed, it expands to 215 litres.

With its clean shapes and minimalist controls, the interior of the new MINI Convertible JCW Pack evokes the design of the classic Mini. The sportiness is elevated with JCW sports seats, vescin/cord combination JCW black upholstery and JCW Dashboard Trim. The new JCW Steering Wheel with paddle shifters adds to the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. The focal point in the cockpit is the round high-resolution OLED display. Known as the MINI Interaction Unit, it combines the functions of an instrument cluster and a central display.

Like all new-generation MINI models, the MINI Convertible JCW Pack uses MINI Operating System 9. Its intuitive interface is inspired by smartphone apps and feels instantly familiar to users. The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) can be activated by saying “Hey MINI” to control a wide range of functions such as navigation, telephony, entertainment and others. The innovative MINI digital key plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. Harman Kardon surround sound system is an aural treat. Other features include remote services, remote software upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, teleservices, in-car weather and intelligent emergency call.

With the MINI experience modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.

A distinctive toggle bar island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged.

Sports seats with electric adjustment are covered in vescin – a high-quality, perforated, artificial leather-free upholstery made from recycled materials. The driver also enjoys the Active Seat for added comfort.

The new MINI Convertible JCW Pack features the innovative and efficient petrol engine powered by the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. It mobilises a peak output of 150 kW/204 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1450-4500 rpm. The car sprints from 0 – 100 kmph in just 6.9 seconds and the top speed is 240 kmph. The 7-speed double clutch steptronic sport transmission with boost mode offers efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps.

Advanced assistance systems such as cruise control and parking assistant increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With new addition of comfort access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters.

The standard minimalism technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The alloy wheels depending on the variant radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled aluminium.

The standard safety equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, rollover protection system, brake assist, 3-point seat belts, dynamic stability control, crash sensor, anti-lock braking system, cornering brake control, rear view camera, and tubeless tyres with tyre pressure indicator.

Nissan Unveils All-New, All-Electric Juke

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Nissan has unveiled the all-new, all-electric Juke at its Vision event at the company’s global headquarters in Japan, marking a major step forward in its electrification strategy in Europe. As the region’s electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, Nissan is building on its 15 years of EV leadership to meet an array of customer needs while navigating a complex and competitive market environment.

Agile, compact, and unmistakably Nissan, this first-ever EV Juke carries personality and emotion into the EV era, reimagining one of Europe’s most distinctive compact crossovers. It forms part of Nissan’s broader strategy to offer an electrified powertrain for every type of customer today.

Since its original launch in 2010, Juke has captured the imagination of 1.5M customers across Europe, reshaping the compact crossover segment with its daring and unconventional design. The new Juke retains that character while introducing a fully electric powertrain, supporting Nissan’s journey towards to zero-emission mobility.

The all-electric Juke joins a growing European EV line-up including the new Micra, third-generation Leaf, Ariya crossover and Townstar LCV, as well as a new A-segment EV to come. The Juke EV will join the third-generation Leaf in offering Vehicle-to-Grid technology, supporting the integration of EVs into the wider energy ecosystem.

Alongside its expanding EV line-up, Nissan continues to offer its e‑POWER hybrid technology, delivering an EV-like driving experience without the need to plug in. Hybrid models such as Qashqai e‑POWER and Juke HEV will remain an important part of the line-up, ensuring customers have access to technologies that suit their needs today.

“Europe is central to Nissan’s electrification strategy, and we remain firmly committed to a fully electric future,” said Massimiliano Messina, Chairman, Nissan AMIEO. “With a rapidly expanding EV line-up, we are bringing greater choice and innovation to every segment, powered by our strong design, engineering and manufacturing footprint in the region. Together, this next generation of vehicles will accelerate our transition to zero-emission mobility.”

The all-new, all-electric Juke will be built at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant in the UK, reinforcing the site’s central role in the company’s global EV strategy. Already home to Leaf and with the first trial phase of Juke production starting in the coming weeks, Sunderland Plant remains the cornerstone of Nissan’s electrified manufacturing footprint in Europe.

The commitment is supported by Nissan’s broader regional capabilities, including its design, engineering and development network across the UK, Spain and Germany. Together, these operations underline Nissan’s long-term investment in Europe as both a production and innovation hub – designing, engineering and manufacturing vehicles in Europe, for European customers.

“JUKE has always stood for bold design and a willingness to challenge convention. With this third generation, we are bringing that spirit into the electric age,” said Clíodhna Lyons, Region Vice President, Product, Brand & Marketing Strategy, Nissan AMIEO. “As our first fully electric JUKE, it will help us reach new customers while expanding choice across our electrified range.”

New Skoda Kushaq Launched In India

Joydip SurLeave a comment

Škoda Auto India has launched the new Kushaq with ex-showroom prices starting at INR 10.69 lakhs. The new Kushaq redefines value, safety, dynamics and furthering its strategy of democratising European technology. The Kushaq is the brand’s first car under the India 2.0 strategy and has driven the company’s growth surge in India. With segment-first technologies like an all-new eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission, Rear Seat Massage function, and numerous all-new features and standard equipment, the new Kushaq follows Škoda Auto India’s strategy of making European engineering more accessible on Indian roads.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, said, “The updated Kushaq reinforces the importance of India as the springboard for Škoda Auto’s strategy to grow our international markets. The Kushaq has rapidly established itself with customers in India and as an export to ASEAN and the Middle East. Now we are setting the next benchmark for the model’s overall value proposition. This update incorporates Modern Solid design elements as well as a broad range of advances from the infotainment and driver assistance features, offering even greater comfort and safety. Together with the Kodiaq and the Kylaq, Škoda Auto offers an SUV fleet on the Indian market that caters to significant segments and price points. Taking the Kushaq to the next level creates the opportunity for additional demand and further growth in our most important market outside Europe.”

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said, “At Škoda, our mission is to democratise European technology and make it more accessible to customers across India. Today, boundary lines between cities and regions are blurring, and aspirations are merging. We are meeting these aspirations by launching products that cater to these evolving customer preferences. With the premiere of the new Kushaq today, we further build our legacy of having a class-leading range of ‘real automatics’ across our portfolio, offering an SUV that comes with the most important safety, comfort, design and convenience features as standard, led by our proven European engineering. We are constantly listening to our customers, and the new Kushaq is another step in keeping our portfolio modern and relevant for our growing Škoda family.”

Easy to Love. Made in India, for India

Debuting in 2021, the Kushaq, a name derived from the Sanskrit word for Emperor, was Škoda Auto’s first-ever product in the Indian market under the India 2.0 strategy. It was the first car on the MQB-A0-IN platform that was developed by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an eye on accessible ownership and maintenance costs. The new Kushaq continues the legacy with multiple new segment-first features, while also carrying forward all the practical features from its predecessor, such as electric front seats with ventilation, cruise control, rear-view camera with sensors, wireless charging, among others. Counting itself among the early Škoda SUVs in the Indian market, the Kushaq today complements the Kodiaq and the Kylaq. With this, Škoda Auto India has a fleet of SUVs that caters to every aspiration and price point.

Easy to flaunt with Modern Solid design cues. Led by the Monte Carlo Badge

The Kushaq now comes with an all-new front grille, housing chrome ribs and an Illuminated Light Band. The front also gets all-new LED headlights, front parking sensors, and LED fog lamps. The rear features new connected taillights with sequential turn indicators. A standout visual cue at the rear is the Illuminated ‘Škoda’ lettering bridging the connected taillights. The sides of the Kushaq have solid, clean lines with cladding around the wheel arches and sills. Alloy wheels are standard across all variants, lending the car a sporty profile and a dynamic on-road stance. The Kushaq’s SUV character is retained in this update, and the Modern Solid cues ensure its style endures through time, making it a butch, yet appealing machine on the road or off it. The SUV will now be available in three all-new colours – Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red, along with existing options of Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, and Deep Black. In a first, the Monte Carlo badge will be offered right from the start of sales, in keeping with the growing demand for this variant, upping the style quotient.

Easy to drive with a range of real automatics

Retaining its incredible driving characteristics and 188 mm of max ground clearance, the new Kushaq maintains its high-speed manners with the ability to take the beaten track. It is equipped with a segment-first all-new eight-speed torque converter automatic. This transmission is mated to the efficient, powerful and proven 1.0 TSI engine putting out 85kW and 178Nm of torque. This engine can also be had with a six-speed manual. Those keener on performance can opt for the 1.5 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm of torque. This four-cylinder turbo with Active Cylinder Technology is mated exclusively to the quick-shifting seven-speed DSG transmission. In the new Kushaq, the 1.5 TSI also gets disc brakes on all wheels. With this, Škoda Auto India continues its strategy of providing real automatics with the introduction of the path-breaking eight-speed torque converter and the proven 7-speed DSG.

Easy on the Experience

Throwing light on the interiors of the new Kushaq is an all-new Panoramic Sunroof stretching across the vehicle, and dual-colour ambient lighting. The new Kushaq carries forward six-way electric seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger, along with a Škoda sound system featuring six speakers and a subwoofer for an immersive in-cabin experience. It offers a generous boot space of 491 litres, expandable to 1,405 litres, enhancing everyday practicality. Climatronic Auto AC is now standard, as are an electric sunroof, auto-dimming IRVMs, rain-sensing wipers, a rear wiper, rear defoggers, and over 25 safety features. The experience continues for the driver with a 10.25-inch (26.03 cm) Digital Cockpit in the higher variants. Mid variants of the new Kushaq get an 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit, enabling enhanced driving information.

AI Assistant powered by Google Cloud

The new Kushaq also comes with a 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment screen, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, modernised by a next-generation infotainment system, delivering a transformative in-car digital experience powered by state-of-the-art technology for Indian consumers. Built on advanced digital architecture, the new system enhances performance, connectivity, and intuitive customer interaction, delivering a seamless and engaging in-cabin experience tailored to modern Indian driving needs.

At its core is an advanced Voice Assistant, powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. This AI agent brings Gemini into the vehicle to create a next-generation, context-aware voice assistance for our customers, bringing drivers and passengers direct access to real-time information such as news and trends, while also enabling hands-free operation to manage music, calls, climate control and more. Developed with a deep understanding of local needs, the infotainment system recognises Indian English accents, ensuring inclusive and intuitive voice interactions. With this, the brand combines global technology with local relevance and sets new benchmarks for smarter driving in India.

Easy to Trust

The new Kushaq continues with safety as a priority, ensuring every customer is assured of its five-star Global NCAP standards. It has over 25 active and passive safety features as standard across variants, including six airbags, and over 40 safety features in higher variants. Škoda Auto India has also ensured all-weather visibility and safety by providing key features like rear wiper, rear defoggers, automatic rain-sensing wipers, and auto-dimming IRVM as standard across variants in the new Kushaq. With this, Škoda Auto India has engineered active safety, passive safety and preventive safety by ensuring the driver enjoys optimum vision and minimal visual stress across all conditions and weather.

Easy to Own: Škoda Super Care package

The new Kushaq continues with Škoda Auto India’s ethos of providing a seamless ownership experience. It now comes with the Škoda Super Care package: best-in-class standard 4-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty, along with 4 years of Roadside Assistance, offering long-term peace of mind. In addition, customers benefit from four free labour services for up to two years or 30,000 kilometres. The warranty can be extended by another two years, taking total coverage up to six years. This is further complemented by a six-year corrosion warranty and a three-year paint warranty.