With limited units available, the Audi Q7 comes available in four exterior colour…reports Asian Lite News
German luxury car manufacturer Audi on Tuesday launched a new car — Q7, under its Bold Edition, in India at Rs 97,84,000 (ex-showroom).
With limited units available, the Audi Q7 comes available in four exterior colours — Glacier White, Mythos Black, Navarra Blue & Samurai Grey.
“With the launch of this Bold Edition, we are offering our customers an even more exclusive variant packed with distinctive styling elements that amplify its road presence,” Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said in a statement.
“The Audi Q7 Special Edition is designed for those who want to make a powerful statement and discover the perfect synthesis of comfort, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology,” he added.
The Bold Edition boasts a gloss black grille, black Audi rings in the front and rear, black window surrounds, black ORVMs and black roof rails.
The new car comes powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, which produces 340 hp (horsepower) and 500 Nm (Newton metre) torque.
The top speed of the vehicle is 250 km/hr and accelerates from 0-100 km/hr in a quick 5.6 seconds. It offers seven drive modes — Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency, Off-Road, All-Road and Individual.
The sporty design of the Epic New Swift features a unique ‘wrap-around character line,’ bold stance, and signature silhouette…reports Asian Lite News
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), has launched the highly anticipated Epic New Swift, setting new benchmarks in the hatchback segment.
The car is available in a wide range of colors, including two new additions – Luster Blue and Novel Orange.
Speaking at the launch event, Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, expressed his pride in presenting the Epic New Swift.
He highlighted the Swift’s legacy since its inception in 2005 and its pioneering role in the premium hatchback segment.
Takeuchi said, “Since its launch in 2005, the Swift brand has been a symbol of excellence in the Indian automotive landscape. It pioneered the dynamism in the premium hatchback segment and captured the hearts of millions of customers. Our vision for the Epic New Swift is to build on its strong legacy by redefining the Joy of Mobility for Swift lovers and driving enthusiasts alike.”
He added, “The all-new Z-Series engine is a futuristic powertrain that brings about a new dimension of performance and sustainability, making it the most efficient hatchback in its segment. We are committed to meet and exceed our customers’ aspirations, and will continue to steer the transformation of the Indian automobile industry by introducing advanced technologies for delivering superior performance.”
Takeuchi emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering superior performance and sustainability through the all-new Z-Series engine, which makes the Epic New Swift the most fuel-efficient hatchback in its segment.
Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, MSIL, commented on the significance of the launch, stating, “With over 29 lakh customers in India, the Swift brand name holds a special place in the hearts of customers. Each generation of this premium hatchback has been ahead of its time, anticipating and addressing evolving customer aspirations. With the introduction of the Epic New Swift, we are building on the rich legacy and raising the benchmark.”
He added, “The revolutionary Z-Series engine offers the best of both the worlds by combining performance with higher fuel-efficiency and lower emissions. Armed with a host of safety features such as 6 airbags, 3-point seatbelts for all seats, ESP, ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Assist, the Epic New Swift underscores our commitment to constantly offer enhanced occupant safety. These, in addition to a feature-rich cabin, make the Epic New Swift the most compelling driver-oriented product in its segment.”
The sporty design of the Epic New Swift features a unique ‘wrap-around character line,’ bold stance, and signature silhouette. Smoky LED projector headlamps, boomerang LED DRLs, glossy black front grille, and precision-cut two-tone alloy wheels add to its allure.
The cabin of the 4th Generation Swift boasts a fresh layout with a ‘centre floating design’ for the dashboard, piano black treatment, and satin matt silver inserts.
The driver-oriented dashboard, flat-bottomed steering wheel, 22.86cm (9inch) Smartplay Pro+ infotainment system, rear AC vents, cruise control, and keyless entry ensure comfort and convenience for all passengers.
The Epic New Swift comes equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Program+ (ESP®), Hill Hold Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, and 3-point seat belts for all seats with reminders. Additionally, it features a reverse camera with wider view for added convenience.
Powered by the brand-new Z-Series engine, the Swift delivers exceptional performance with low emissions and enhanced fuel efficiency. The 1197cc engine offers 60 kW of peak power and 111.7 Nm of peak torque. With an exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 25.75 km/l*, the Epic New Swift marks a 14 per cent improvement over its predecessor.
The Epic New Swift promises cutting-edge technological features, including the 22.86cm (9inch) SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™#, wireless phone charger, Suzuki Connect with voice commands, and ARKAMYS surround sense. (ANI)
The car exudes remarkable dynamism and premium allure, highlighting its independent, performance-driven character. Undoubtedly, it stands as an emblem of elite athleticism…reports Asian Lite News
Luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new ‘M4 Competition M xDrive’ in India at an ex-showroom price of Rs 1,53,00,000.
The car will be available in the country as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) model and can be booked at the BMW dealership network and through the company’s online shop.
“The new BMW M4 Competition M xDrive truly embodies the best of BMW M – unstoppable power, incredible handling, and sporty styling,” Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India, said in a statement.
“The car radiates superior dynamism and premium appeal, underlining its independent, performance-oriented personality. It is indeed an elite sporting icon,” he added.
The new car comes available in metallic paintworks — Skyscraper grey, Portimao Blue, Black Sapphire, Sao Paulo Yellow, Toronto Red, Brooklyn Grey, Isle of Man Green, Aventurine Red and Alpine White in non-metallic.
Optional BMW Individual metallic paint finishes available are — Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey.
The new car comes powered by the BMW M TwinPower Turbo S58 six-cylinder in-line petrol engine.
This 3.0-litre powerplant offers dynamic power delivery and a rich, signature M sound.
It is also combined with intelligent four-wheel drive M xDrive, the company said.
The engine produces a maximum output of 530 hp (horsepower) and peak torque of 650 Nm (Newton metres) with an acceleration of 0-100 kmph in just 3.5 seconds.
For safety, the new BMW M4 Competition comes with head and side airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as head airbags for the rear seats as standard.
BMW Group India on Monday said it closed the first quarter of the calendar year 2024 delivering 3,680 cars and 1,810 motorcycles.
According to BMW Group India, it has sold 3,510 units of BMW and 170 units of MINI and 1,810 motorcycles (BMW Motorrad).
Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group India has posted strong performance in the first quarter of the year. Breaking earlier records, Q1 car sales achieved new heights with successful growth of 51 per cent.”
Meanwhile, the Group and Tata Technologies on Tuesday announced they are establishing an automotive software and IT development hub with locations in Pune, Bengaluru and Chennai.
The new joint venture (JV) will deliver automotive software, including software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions for BMW Group’s premium vehicles and digital transformation solutions for its business IT.
The JV will commence operations with 100 employees and intends to grow to a four-digit number in the following years, the companies said in a statement.
“In international comparison, India boasts a large number of talents with outstanding software skills, who can contribute to our software competence,” said Christoph Grote, SVP of Software and E/E Architecture at BMW Group.
Developing vehicle software for the BMW Group means working with top-class processes and tools, which, in turn, gives “Indian software engineers the chance to shape state-of-the-art, premium automotive experiences in future fields such as highly automated driving and artificial intelligence,” he noted.
The main development and operations activities will be established at Bengaluru and Pune. In Chennai, the focus shall be on business IT solutions.
The JV will leverage Tata Technologies’ digital engineering expertise and talent pool in the country to contribute to the BMW Group’s strategic expansion of software coding capabilities across global IT hubs and 24/7 operations.
“Our collaboration with the BMW Group demonstrates our commitment to providing top-tier solutions in automotive software and digital engineering to customers across the world,” said Warren Harris, CEO and MD of Tata Technologies.
Electric Lineup Widens
Luxury car maker BMW launched another all-electric car, BMW i5 M60 xDrive, in India at an ex-showroom price of Rs 1,19,50,000.
The new car comes available in Alpine White as non-metallic paintwork and in the following metallic paintworks, which include M Brooklyn Grey, M Carbon Black, Cape York Green, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Sophisto Grey, Oxide Grey, and Mineral White.
It is now available at all BMW dealerships across the country as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) model.
“It brings together the legacy of eight generations of the sportiest executive sedan — the ‘5’, adrenaline-laden performance of ‘M’ and the sustainability of ‘i’,” Vikram Pawah, president of BMW Group India, said in a statement.
The car comes with a standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from the third year of operation to a maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation, according to the company,
The high-voltage battery in the BMW i5 M60 xDrive is covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometres.
BMW safety technologies include six airbags, attentiveness assistance, dynamic stability control (DSC), including cornering brake control (CBC), an electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, and others.
The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 230 km/hr.
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive comes with a complimentary BMW Wallbox charger with installation. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 11 kW (kilowatt), the company said.
The 22 kW AC Charging Professional is also available as an option.
The company has produced a staggering 80 lakh helmets in the previous calendar year alone, and the ambitious goal for the current calendar year 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024 is to reach 10 million helmet productions….reports Asian Lite News
Steelbird Hi-Tech, a leader in helmet manufacturing, proudly announces its status as the world’s largest helmet producer, achieving an outstanding sales milestone of 77,99,273 helmets globally. The company’s commitment to innovation, safety, and quality has propelled it to the forefront of the industry.
In addition to the remarkable helmet sales, Steelbird Helmet has successfully sold 3,44,865 Side Boxes, contributing to a total of 81,44,138 units sold worldwide. The group’s revenue has witnessed an impressive surge, reaching 687 crores in the calendar year 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023.
The accomplishment is attributed to the dedication and hard work of the entire Steelbird team, along with their comprehensive in-house production capabilities. The company has produced a staggering 80 lakh helmets in the previous calendar year alone, and the ambitious goal for the current calendar year 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024 is to reach 10 million helmet productions.
Rajeev Kapur, the Managing Director of Steelbird Hi-Tech, emphasized the company’s commitment to road safety. He shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding road fatalities in India, citing reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) stating that 300 thousand people die on Indian roads annually. However, Kapur expressed concern that the actual numbers could be much higher due to underreported accidents in regions without adequate traffic police.
“Many states and districts in our country lack proper traffic police, and numerous accidents go unreported. If we check the data with insurance companies, the numbers are much more staggering. Therefore, it is our duty to address this issue urgently, leaving no stone unturned,” stated Rajeev Kapur.
We have been a pioneer in helmet manufacturing, producing everything in-house, including EPS, buckles, stickers, rivets, and more, except for packaging. This comprehensive approach ensures the highest standards of quality and safety in each product.
As the world’s largest helmet producer, Steelbird Helmet remains committed to its mission of promoting road safety and saving lives. The company looks forward to continued success and growth while contributing to the crucial cause of reducing road accidents globally.
With global domination of more than 50 years and the inspiration to protect bike lovers and adventure enthusiasts all over the world, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Ltd. (SBHT) was founded on 13th March 1964. SBHT, a flagship company of Steelbird Group of Industries, ventured into the unknown territory of auto accessory business to manufacture helmets.
From humble beginnings come great achievements. Leaving behind the savagery of partition, Subhash Kapur, a man of exceptional business acumen spearheaded his efforts to turn a small time family business into a multimillion dollar empire with exports spreading across 50 nations like Brazil, Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan, Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, Vietnam, Bahrain, Dubai, Nepal, Colombia, Uruguay and other European countries. SBHT has already embarked on real estate business, entertainment and is also actively involved in organizing motorsports events on a regular basis.
Excellent quality imparts national and international recognition especially when it comes to manufacturing Motor Cycle Helmets with Sweat Resistant Interiors, Pannier Boxes, Helmet Locking Devices (HLD) and Auto Accessories, all manufactured with avant-garde technology. SBHT specializes as an OEM to top-notch clients as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Royal Enfield. Customers can now buy SBHT products directly via mobile optimized online store.
SBHT has emerged as the oldest and leading manufacturers of Helmets, Pannier Boxes and Auto Accessories in India. It has marked formidable presence across all business verticals, national and international alike. It has PAN India distribution channel together with presence in 2-tier and 3-tier cities too and sells wide variety of products to government agencies like CSD and CPC as well.
In technical collaboration with global giants like Composites, Bieffe and AD Engineering, Italy, SBHT has cutting edge manufacturing facility in all 6 of its plants and the largest one is in Baddi (Himachal Pradesh), near Chandigarh with over one hundred and fifty thousand Sq. ft. of covered area. SBHT has installed capacity of 22000 Helmets per day and 1600 Side Boxes (Pannier Box) per day. To achieve this capacity, SBHT has deployed a fleet of latest Equipments, Injection Moulding Machines, Automatic Robotic Visor Lines, and Balloon Moulding Machines. SBHT has a complete range of 51 Helmet models and 17 Pannier Boxes models, each having 3 to 9 colour variants.
Since its inception in 1996, Hyundai Motor India has consistently demonstrated a commitment to India, becoming the first OEM to export ‘Made in India’ vehicles worldwide and holding the position of the largest passenger vehicle exporter from India…reports Asian Lite News
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. showcased its technologically-advanced products at the first ever Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024. Based on the theme ‘Mobility for All’, the Hyundai Motor India Pavilion in Hall No. 6, Pragati Maidan, presented the company’s vision for India and highlighted its commitment to India.
Commenting on Hyundai Motor India’s participation at Bharat Global Mobility Expo 2024, Puneet Anand, AVP and Vertical Head, Corporate Affairs, Hyundai Motor India, said, “We would like to congratulate the Government of India and Ministry of Commerce & Industries for envisioning this unique Bharat Global Mobility Expo 2024.
“It gave us an opportunity to showcase our products & technologies to the audience. As Hyundai Motor India, we take pride in our journey of localization, epitomising the ‘Made in India, for the World’ spirit. Our commitment goes beyond cars; it’s a commitment to India’s engineering prowess and growth.
“Achieving 100 per cent localisation in vital components reflects our dedication to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Our state-of-the-art facilities across the nation, coupled with ongoing investments, underscore our vision for excellence. Hyundai’s journey in India is more than just automobiles; it’s a narrative of progress, community development, and a relentless pursuit of innovation, reflecting our enduring commitment to India’s future.”
Localisation Zone
Localisation has been pivotal in Hyundai Motor India’s journey since its inception. As the foremost exporter of ‘Made in India’ cars globally, Hyundai’s specialised localisation zone exemplifies the extensive utilization of parts from Indian manufacturers, showcasing the nation’s engineering prowess.
In its ongoing commitment to enhancing localisation, Hyundai has achieved 100 per cent localisation in key components such as tires, panoramic sunroof, alloy wheel, and more.
The company is also working towards enhancing localisation ratio for manufacturing vehicles in India, including key car components, ECM-based Inside Rear View Monitor (IRVM), higher grade AGM technology battery, and a wide range of other components.
Reinforcing its commitment towards localisation, a dedicated team has been established to intensify its efforts, particularly for high-volume models, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The zone not only highlights Hyundai’s advanced manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, but also showcases the R&D facility in Hyderabad, corporate office in Gurugram, and the recently acquired Maharashtra facility, firmly establishing Hyundai’s presence on the Indian map.
The comprehensive zone is complemented by a film illustrating Hyundai’s manufacturing excellence, emphasising the company’s dedication to delivering the highest quality vehicles globally.
Since its inception in 1996, Hyundai Motor India has consistently demonstrated a commitment to India, becoming the first OEM to export ‘Made in India’ vehicles worldwide and holding the position of the largest passenger vehicle exporter from India.
Hyundai has been a pioneer in the Indian automobile industry, introducing global technologies and features, and standardizing 6 airbags and 3-point seatbelts across its entire range.
Aligned with Hyundai’s global CSR guideline of ‘CONTINUE,’ the Hyundai Motor India Foundation, initiated in 2006, has undertaken various social initiatives, including Art for Hope, telemedicine clinics, sports labs, Dhyan-Do, Drive for Progress, BeTheBetterGuy, and more, focusing on community development, healthcare, education, vocational training, and promoting safe mobility practices.
In 2023, Hyundai Motor India signed an MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu, committing INR 20,000 Crore over next 10 years for capacity expansion, new products, establishing a battery pack assembly facility, and improving charging infrastructure.
In 2024, an additional commitment of Rs 6,180 crore was declared by the company, including Rs 180 crore towards ‘Hydrogen Valley Innovation Hub’ in collaboration with IIT Madras.
Additionally, the company has signed an MoU with the State of Maharashtra for a long-term investment of Rs 6,000 crore for infrastructure upgradation and capacity expansion for its 1 million capacity goal. These endeavours underscore Hyundai Motor India’s enduring commitment to India, paving the way for its sustained success in the country.
The auction, which is slated to take place during the inaugural Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, will present a diverse selection…reports Asian Lite News
Emirates Auction, which organises and runs public and electronic auctions serving the entire Middle East, is revving up to launch its first-ever online auction for classic vintage automobiles. The event, open from February 1 to 5 and organised in cooperation with the Sharjah Old Cars Club, will auction off over 40 rare and valuable big-brand automobiles.
The auction, which is slated to take place during the inaugural Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, will present a diverse selection including one-of-a-kind vintage automobiles, four-wheel vehicles, and classic cars, in addition to historically significant models. Vintage car enthusiasts can participate in the auction through the Emirates Auction website and smart applications, or visit the festival to get a glimpse of the automobiles on the floor and learn about their specifications.
Saeed Mohammed Bin Ashour, Executive Director of the Sharjah Old Cars Club, said the collaboration with Emirates Auction to launch its first-ever electronic auction for vintage automobiles mirrors the club’s efforts to expand its sphere of strategic partnerships with sector experts and stakeholders. The club aims to unite efforts in a way that helps present the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE as a global destination for classic cars. The online auction, he said, will bring in added value for the Festival, augmenting its successes by giving everyone the opportunity to acquire classic and old vehicles through the world’s most advanced and transparent bidding systems, which adhere to the highest standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability.
Omar Matar Almannaei, Executive Director of Emirates Auction, said the UAE’s classic cars sector is becoming increasingly popular among vintage vehicle enthusiasts of different nationalities. “By organising this online auction for the first time, we aim to keep in step with this growth and provide a special new experience for classic and vintage car-lovers, allowing them to purchase these vehicles easily and smoothly.”
Noting his pleasure in cooperating with the Sharjah Old Cars Club, Almannaei said: “The auction is expected to witness an exceptional turnout and stiff competition among classic car collectors, especially given the vast selection of rare and bespoke vehicles. Buyers will have access to the best prices and can perform on-site vehicle inspections by visiting the Festival and taking a look at the car’s full technical report, which includes specifications, history, and significance.”
“The Sharjah facility, introduced in 2018, meets GDSI standards and is UAE’s largest Hyundai branch.”….reports Asian Lite News
Juma Al Majid Est., the exclusive distributor of Hyundai in the UAE, was recognized among Hyundai Motor Company’s top 100 global dealers, with the Sharjah branch being named 2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year’ by Hyundai Middle East. This esteemed honor, conferred on 22 August, underscores Juma Al Majid Est.’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences and setting industry benchmarks.
The state-of-the-art facility, located in Sharjah and ceremoniously introduced in 2018 to meet the latest GDSI (Global dealership space identity) standards, is recognized as the largest Hyundai branch in the UAE. Encompassing an estimated 13,000 square meters of constructed space and featuring 100 vehicle bays, it is a remarkable testament to modern facilities.
Commenting on the ceremony, Mr. Bryan Park, Head of Hyundai Middle East & Africa HQ, said: “We are immensely proud of Hyundai UAE’s Sharjah branch for being named ‘2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year.’ As we look forward, we remain dedicated to maintaining our market leadership and consistently raising the bar in customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Our journey is driven by a profound desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and together, with Hyundai UAE and Juma Al Majid Est., we will continue to add value to our customers’ lives and shape the future of automotive excellence.”
Mr. Suliman Al Zaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, said: “At Hyundai UAE, our commitment to our customers is the cornerstone of our success, and this ‘2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year’ award further motivates us to continue our journey of exceeding customer expectations and setting new industry standards. Our dedication is reflected in the launch of multiple corporate identity facilities, each thoughtfully designed to elevate the customer experience; every interaction with our brand is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to excellence. As part of the Juma Al Majid Est. Group, we remain steadfastly focused on our overarching mission to deliver world-class experiences at every customer journey touchpoint.”
This is the inaugural launch of the ‘Dealer of The Year’ (DOTY) program by Hyundai Motor Company, marking a historic milestone for Hyundai dealerships worldwide. Among a distinguished roster of dealerships, Hyundai UAE’s Sharjah branch proudly secured a place in the select group of 100 recipients of this prestigious award. This achievement highlights the branch’s state-of-the-art facility, encompassing a showroom and service parts center, perfectly aligned with Hyundai’s global corporate identity.
Juma Al Majid Est. extends its sincere appreciation to its valued customers, partners, and stakeholders whose continued support has been instrumental in achieving this remarkable milestone.
These cutting-edge technologies work in harmony to guarantee not only the well-being of all passengers but also to provide a sense of security and confidence during every journey…reports Asian Lite News
In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, the Jaguar F-PACE has solidified its position as a trailblazer, combining sophistication, agility, and cutting-edge technology. Drawing inspiration from Jaguar’s storied racing history, the F-PACE stands as a testament to the brand’s unyielding dedication to engineering brilliance and innovative design.
Muscat, Oman – Mr. Mohsin Hani Al Bahrani, CEO of MHD ACERE, expressed his admiration for the enduring allure of the Jaguar F-PACE, declaring, “The Jaguar F-PACE is more than just an automobile; it’s a captivating experience. Its fusion of design, performance, and technology deeply resonates with our discerning clientele, reflecting their aspirations and lifestyles. At MHD ACERE, we take great pride in our association with a brand that consistently sets the gold standard in automotive luxury.”
The F-PACE’s exterior is a study in elegance, featuring sleek lines, dynamic proportions, and the iconic Jaguar grille, ensuring a commanding presence on the road. A range of robust engine options guarantees an exhilarating driving experience, complemented by dynamic handling and responsive steering for precise control.
Inside the cabin, the F-PACE offers a harmonious fusion of opulence and comfort, boasting premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge features. The F-PACE SVR, powered by a 5.0-liter V8 Supercharged Petrol engine, generates an impressive 700Nm of torque, promising a thrilling ride. In contrast, the F-PACE R-DYNAMIC boasts a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Turbocharged Petrol engine, striking the perfect balance between power and efficiency. Both models feature the Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4″ touchscreen, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment. The Clear Sight interior rearview mirror and the 3D Surround Camera enhance the driving experience, providing drivers with a clear view of their surroundings.
Safety remains paramount in the F-PACE, equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and driver-assistance systems, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Whether on a daily commute or an adventurous road trip, the F-PACE exemplifies Jaguar’s commitment to luxury, performance, and safety.
With over 15,000 units sold in the past year, the Jaguar F-PACE has not only made a mark but continues to redefine the standards for luxury SUVs, captivating automotive enthusiasts and luxury aficionados worldwide.
The Exter SUV, already unveiled digitally by Hyundai, will be a direct rival to the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Suzuki Ignis….reports Asian Lite News
Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) on Monday launched Hyundai Exter in what is billed as India’s most affordable SUV with introductory prices start from Rs 6 lakh and go up to Rs 10 lakh for the top-spec trim (all prices ex-showroom, India).
The Exter SUV, already unveiled digitally by Hyundai, will be a direct rival to the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Suzuki Ignis.
For its price, it will also see competition from lower variants of the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger in the small SUV segment.
Despite its small proportions, the Exter comes packed with several features, some of them being segment-first.
The bookings for the SUV have already started.
Designed to redefine benchmark in its segment. Hyundai Exter has been developed to reflect the tenets of unique exteriors, spacious interiors, advanced safety & technology and exceptional performance.
At the launch, HMIL’s MD & CEO Unsoo Kim said: “Hyundai Motor India has always created new benchmarks in the industry with its revolutionary products & technologies. Yet again, with Exter, we are proud to introduce an SUV that embodies Hyundai’s commitment to innovative design, intelligent technology and exceptional performance.”
As per the company, Exter features a progressive and unique SUV design showcasing Hyundai’s design identity of ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ that is sure to turn heads on the road with its striking and innovative exterior design, characterised by a modern front, dynamic side and sporty rear design.
Eexter reflects the company’s vision to develop an SUV that boasts advanced technology, Hyundai’s SUV DNA and robust driving capability, it said.
The SUV also boasts of segment best wheelbase that encapsulates the lavishness of spacious interiors for a capacious mobility experience, while establishing a new segment benchmark with over 40 advanced safety features & 26 standard safety features across all trims.
It sets a new standard with 6 Airbags that will be offered across all trims as regular fitment, the company said.
Available with 3 powertrain options – 1.2 l Kappa petrol engine (E20 Fuel Ready) with choice of 5-speed MT & Smart Auto AMT and 1.2 l Bi-fuel Kappa petrol and CNG with 5-speed MT, it is available in 6 monotone and 3 dual tone exterior colour options including 2 new & exclusive colours – Ranger Khaki, and Cosmic Blue which is also available with dual tone colour options. The interiors are available in three colours – Light Sage, Cosmic Blue, and Silver.
Behind Verstappen, Alonso finished second for Aston Martin after a good overtaking move on Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who took third…reports Asian Lite News
Max Verstappen moved level with Ayrton Senna’s tally of 41 Grand Prix wins after victory in Sunday’s Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, here.
Starting from pole position after a brilliant performance in Saturday’s wet qualifying session, Verstappen held off the threat of Fernando Alonso at the start, and never looked threatened as he managed the gap to those behind him throughout the race to take Red Bull’s 100th Grand Prix win.
“Very happy right now. It was not a very straightforward race, as the tyres were not getting into their window. It was very cold compared to Friday, but we made it work and to win the 100th GP for the team is pretty incredible,” said Verstappen afterwards.
Behind Verstappen, Alonso finished second for Aston Martin after a good overtaking move on Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who took third.
The Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz recovered from a poor qualifying session to finish fourth and fifth, ahead of the second Red Bull of Sergio Perez, who also notched the bonus point for fastest lap, though the Mexican may be concerned at yet another weekend where he was off the pace of his illustrious teammate, Xinhua reported.
Alex Albon continued his good form from Saturday’s qualifying to finish in an excellent seventh place, scoring Williams’ best result in almost two years after withstanding heavy pressure from the cars behind him.
Esteban Ocon took eighth for Alpine, with Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll taking ninth place on the line from Valtteri Bottas, who rounded out the points for Alfa Romeo.
The two retirees were Logan Sargeant, who pulled off on Lap 6 with an engine issue, and George Russell, who retired with brake issues after having clouted the wall earlier in the race.
Verstappen’s win puts him on 195 points and gives him a 69-point advantage over second-placed Perez, with no driver in F1 history ever having overhauled such a lead. Alonso stays third with 117 points.
In the Constructors’ Championship, Red Bull’s lead now stands at 321 points, with the drinks-backed outfit having won all eight races so far this season. Mercedes are second on 167 points, with Aston Martin third on 154.
The ninth round of the 2023 F1 World Championship is the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring on July 2.
