Tata Safari becomes the Official Partner for this year’s Vivo IPL

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March 23, 2021

BCCI and Tata Motors have announced that the new Tata Safari will be the Official Partner for Vivo IPL 2021. As the tournament will return to India this year, Tata is looking forward to supporting this year’s IPL and also showcase its recently launched Tata Safari.

Also read, New 2021 Skoda Octavia confirmed to launch in India in April 2021

Commenting on this, Mr Vivek Srivatsa, Head of Marketing, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit Tata Motors said, “This year’s IPL is a special one for us as the tournament has made its way back to its Indian venues after a difficult year. The excitement of the 2021 tournament will be a notch higher as cricket lovers in India look forward to welcoming the illustrious league back to their home stadiums. We are thrilled to be contributing to this excitement with the renewal of our fruitful association with BCCI, for the fourth consecutive year. The new Safari has received a great response especially concerning its premium design, best-in-class features, and outstanding comfort by customers and it is making its IPL debut in this new avatar. We are working on innovative plans to garner the viewers’ attention, as they tune in from across the country to support their teams. We are positive to drive tremendous value from this association and hope to share the joy of celebrating our favourite sport and cricket league with the fans yet again”.

The tournament will begin on April 9th in Chennai and it would be played across 6 major cities that include Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata. In the end, the finals would be played in Ahmedabad.

Tata would be showcasing the new Safari across Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad too. Lastly, similar to past seasons of IPL, there is also going to be a Super Striker Awards for the player with the highest strike rate of the match. The winner of the award will be treated with the Super Striker Trophy along with a prize of Rs. 1 lakh.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post, Tata Safari becomes the Official Partner for this year’s Vivo IPL by dropping a comment down below.

New 2021 Skoda Octavia confirmed to launch in India in April 2021

By

Madhav Banka

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March 23, 2021

The new Skoda Octavia would soon be launching in India by the beginning of April. This was confirmed by Zac Hollis, Brand Director of Skoda Auto India, on Twitter, “For all those Octavia fans out there, we plan to launch the all-new Octavia at the end of next month, with deliveries starting from the end of May.”

Also read, Made-in-India Jeep Wrangler launched. Starts at Rs. 53.9 lakh

Some main points have been mentioned below, for the reader to have a better overview-

The Newer 2021 Octavia would be no longer and wider than the current model.
Under the hood, it will come up with a 190hp 2.0-litre TSI engine
The price of this car can be up to Rs 18-24 lakh range

As features are concerned, it would get a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, three-zone climate control, connected car tech, a digital assistant that is named Laura, and wireless charging.

Now for the powertrain options, it would be powered by a 190hp, 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that would be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Unlike its 2020 Octavia, which was also offered with a 143hp, 2.0-litre TDI motor, this new sedan will miss out on a diesel engine. As per the company’s decision is to focus more on the petrol segment with the transition to the newer BS6 norms.

The newer 2021 Octavia was scheduled to launch by the end-2020. Due to the pandemic, it got delayed to early 2021 and then finally it would be launching in the second quarter. We can expect this new 2021 Octavia to be priced around the Rs 18-24 lakh range. It’s straightly competing with the Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla as well but it is being discontinued in the Indian market.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post New 2021 Skoda Octavia confirmed to launch in India in April 2021 by dropping a comment down below.

Ford aims Zero Water consumption while manufacturing

By

Madhav Banka

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March 22, 2021

Out of all water available on the planet, only about 1% is easily accessible for consumption. Approximately 97% is salt water, while the majority of remaining freshwater is frozen in ice caps and glaciers, which overall is difficult to access.

Also read, Ford EcoSport SE advertisement features a take on twin sibling relationships

Almost two decades ago, Ford had aimed to reduce its per-vehicle water usage by almost 72%. By 2013, the brand had already saved more than 10 billion gallons of water, and perhaps more digestible terms, that’s the same as 15,000 competition-sized swimming pools; or over 3 hours 40 minutes of thunderous Niagara Falls flow.

While an admirable target, Ford sought to do more, setting itself an aspirational long-term goal of using zero fresh water in its manufacturing. That target is still in Ford’s sights, and the company has already made considerable steps towards ensuring that the only fresh water use at its facilities is for human consumption.

At Ford’s Chennai Vehicle Assembly and Engine Plant (CVAEP), fresh water consumption is down to an incredible 1.17 m³ per vehicle – from 7.3 m³ per vehicle only a decade ago. Having identified an alternate source of grey water to treat for use in non-production activities, the smart water efficiency processes see it recycle almost 100 per cent of industrial waste water for use in manufacturing.

Ford’s Sanand Vehicle Assembly & Engine Plant in Gujarat has zero water discharge, with a 110,000 m³ rain water harvesting pond used for pallet washing, irrigation, and with plans in place to replace the cooling tower’s water with rainwater, too

So do let’s know what do you think of these efforts by Ford. You can a leave a comment below or tweet to us.

Audi S5 Sportback launched at Rs. 79.06 lakh in India

By

Madhav Banka

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March 22, 2021

Audi has launched the 2021 Audi S5 Sportback in India, the price for this new car starts at Rs 79.06 lakh (Ex-showroom Price). It actually is the S5 Sportback that gets styling changes to the exterior along with changes to the cabin and more inner changes as well.

Also read, Ford EcoSport SE advertisement features a take on twin sibling relationships

Some main highlights have been mentioned below, for readers to have a better overview-

The new S5 Sportback gets the same 354hp, 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrol engine
It now comes with a new 10.1-inch touchscreen
The list of rivals include the BMW M340i and the Mercedes-AMG C43

Now for the new 2021 Audi S5 itself, firstly for the design, it gets a new front bumper, a single-frame grille, and also a new Matrix LED headlamps with LED DRLs as well. There are also new 19-inch alloy wheels as well. Moving on to the color options there are a total of 8 of them, which also includes the new Turbo Blue, Daytona Gray, and Tango Red too.

Now for the interiors, the overall dashboard design and layout still remains unchanged and looks very similar to the previous car. But one of the visible differences include the new 10.1-inch touchscreen that is replacing the old rotary-controlled MMI display and also the removal of the rotary controller entirely from the center console. It also gets an updated version of the Audi 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. For the features, it includes Alcantara leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, powered front sport seats, ambient lighting, and 3-zone climate control. It also gets an optional heads-up display, a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a parking assist system as well.

The new S5 is available with a 3.0-liter turbo-petrol V6 engine that can develop 354hp and 500Nm of torque. The new Petrol engine here is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. According to Audi, the car can go from 0-100kph in just the time of 4.8 seconds.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post Audi S5 Sportback launched at a price of Rs. 79.06 lakh in India by dropping a comment down below.

Ford EcoSport SE advertisement features a take on twin sibling relationships

By

Madhav Banka

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March 21, 2021

Ford India has launched the latest variant to its new SUV in the EcoSport’s line-up with a different advertisement that features a short part of the lives of identical twins.

Also read, Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift launched in India. Starts at INR 63.6 lakh

Commenting on this Rahul Gautam, vice president of Marketing, at Ford India said, “At Ford, we are committed to meet the diverse needs of our customers and offer a product line up that delivers what they want and values, just like the EcoSport S and SE” further adding, “Our latest television campaign using twin siblings’ reference also reflects this commitment and shows how EcoSport S & SE celebrate two different customer personalities while offering the best of safety, comfort and fun of driving”

Now for the ad campaign itself, it is around the need for individuality through a story from the lives of a pair of identical twins. These twins have differentiation in the choices they make, they want their individuality to shine through and are tired of being treated alike. The film ends on Ford EcoSport S and Ford EcoSport SE being a few of the rare things that meet this need for differentiation.

The campaign here means, Same Same, But Different which respects the no-compromise attitude of Ford customers, yet accept a need for distinction in their choices. The campaign went live on Ford’s social handles as well as on digital channels starting March 12. It is a 30-second ad, with 20-second edit that would be aired on televisions during the India-England T20 series.

The Ad can be viewed from the link mentioned below-

The Ford EcoSport SE is a compact SUV in the line-up and it expands the customer choices with greater flexibility to pick from two distinct body styles. The latest variant will continue to deliver two reliable and performance leading diesel and petrol engine options; breakthrough technology with SYNC3 infotainment system and advanced safety with six airbags.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post, Ford’s EcoSport SE Ad features a strange take on Twin Sibling Relationships by dropping a comment down below.

Made-in-India Jeep Wrangler launched. Starts at Rs. 53.9 lakh

By

Madhav Banka

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March 18, 2021

Image Credits: Auto Car India

Jeep has launched the Jeep Wrangler in India and it also says that it has been locally assembled. It is priced from Rs 53.9 and goes up to 57.9 lakh (introductory price and ex-showroom, India). It is being offered in the same Unlimited and Rubicon trims as before, along with a new 80th Anniversary Edition.

Also read, Hardeep Singh Brar becomes the National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India

Some main points have been mentioned below, for readers to have a better overview-

The local assembly Wrangler has seen a price drop by almost Rs. 10 to 11 lakhs.
It is powered by a 268hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
It is offered in Unlimited and Rubicon trims, with an additional special-edition variant.

Now for the powertrain options and features, it is offered with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol motor that gets 268hp and 400Nm of torque. There is an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is available as standard. Both the variants are differentiated by the alloy wheels, as the Unlimited packs in a set of 18-inches, whereas the Rubicon variant gets wheels that are a size smaller.

The features of this new Wrangler include LED headlamps and DRLs, LED fog lamps, leather upholstery, 7.0-inch color MID screen in the instrument cluster, an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and keyless entry/start as well. As it is a Wrangler, it also gets removable doors and a hardtop roof.

On the safety front Jeep has given some special attention, as it gets front and side airbags, electronic stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, electronic roll mitigation, automatic headlamps, tire pressure monitor, and rear parking sensors and camera. The special edition however features a unique design for the alloy wheels and ’80th Anniversary’ badging on the front fenders, as well as the central console and front seats in the cabin.

This new Made-in-India Jeep Wrangler would be available in five colors which include, Bright White, Sting-Gray, Granite Crystal, Black, and the Firecracker Red.

Image Credits: CarAndBike.com

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post Made-in-India Jeep Wrangler launched at Rs. 53.9 lakh by dropping a comment down below.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift launched in India. Starts at INR 63.6 lakh

By

Madhav Banka

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March 16, 2021

Mercedes-Benz E-Class long-wheelbase facelift which is one of the most awaited cars has been launched. It starts at a price of Rs 63.6 lakh and is available in five variants with three engine that users can choose from.

Also read, Hardeep Singh Brar becomes the National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India

Some main highlights have been mentioned below, for readers to have a better overview-

The new sedan is available in three variant; Expression, Exclusive, and AMG Line
There is a New AMG Line variant that gets more sporty exterior styling and unique interior
Whereas, the top-spec E 350d is equipped with two 12.3-inch screens, air suspension, reclining rear seats, and even more.

Now for the car itself, on the outside, the E-Class long-wheelbase facelift gets new headlamps and front bumper, along with a wider three-slat chrome grille and chrome trim for the fog lamp inserts. There are changes to the rear that include a new bumper design and slim, horizontal tail-lamps. The new changes look very similar to the one on the new S-Class.

The car is available in Polar White, Obsidian Black, High-Tech Silver, and Mojave Silver as well. Additionally, there is also a Selenite Grey and Designo Hyacinth Red are also available, but they would only be available for a limited time.

The interiors of the car get two 12.3-inch screens, one of them is in the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system. There is also a new steering wheel with capacitive touch controls, and also there is a new touchscreen in the rear-center with two USB ports at the back.

The powertrain options for this new 2021 E-Class long-wheelbase facelift include a 197hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol in the E 200; a 194hp, 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel in the E 200d; and a 3.0-litre, straight-six diesel in the top-spec E 350d that has been tuned up to deliver 286hp. All of the engines are paired to a 9-speed torque converter automatic gearbox as a standard.

Now for the features, the car is equipped with Mercedes’ latest MBUX software that includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The maker has also included support for Alexa and Google Home, voice commands. There is a 590W Burmester sound system, reclining rear seats, three-zone automatic climate control, two wireless phone chargers, a panoramic sunroof, full leather upholstery, air suspension, soft-close doors, LED headlamps, and also tail-lamps.

Speaking of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift rivals, there is the BMW 5 Series, the Audi A6, the Jaguar XF and there is also the Volvo S90.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift launched in India priced at Rs 63.6 lakh by dropping a comment down below.

Hardeep Singh Brar becomes the National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India

By

Madhav Banka

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March 15, 2021

Kia Motors India, a subsidiary of Kia Corporation, has today announced the appointment of Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar as National Head of Sales and Marketing. So this is a post on Hardeep Singh Brar becomes the National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India. Also read, Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift to launch in India on 16th March

Commenting on the new executive appointment, Mr. Kookhyun Shim, Managing Director, and Chief Executive Officer, Kia Motors India said, “We are delighted to welcome Hardeep Singh Brar to the Kia Motors India family as we accelerate our growth strategy to expand to newer regions in India. Kia has been able to disrupt the Indian automobile industry and emerge as a market leader in a record time and with Brar onboard, we are confident of consolidating our position further through a more consumer-focused approach.”

Also, on his appointment as National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia, Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar said, “I have followed Kia’s India journey and witnessed the way Kia has disrupted the market with three segment-leading products. It is an exciting phase that Kia Motors India is in right now and I look forward to continuing Kia’s phenomenal run and shaping the future for the brand.”

He would be responsible for strengthening Kia’s leadership position in the Indian market and for enabling the next wave of growth. He brings over two decades of experience in the automotive industry to Kia, having most recently served at Great Wall Motors as Director Marketing & Sales.

Mr. Brar has also held senior leadership positions across sales, network, and marketing functions at Maruti Suzuki, Volkswagen, General Motors & Nissan. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Punjab, and is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School. He is also known for his expertise in sales, marketing, customer service, and network development for the brands he has served in his career.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post Hardeep Singh Brar becomes the National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India by dropping a comment down below.

Kia reveals its new design philosophy with images of the EV6

By

Madhav Banka

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March 15, 2021

Kia Corporation has today revealed the first images of the exterior and interior design of EV6, it also reveals its first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), ahead of the car’s world launch in March of this year. So this is a post on Kia reveals its new design philosophy with full images of the new EV6. Also read, Audi E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback to launch in the first half of this year in India

Commenting on this Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center said, “EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centered, progressive design and electrified power We strongly believe EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV market,” further adding, “With EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive, impactful design by using a combination of sophisticated, high-tech features on pure and rich volumes while providing a unique space as a futuristic EV.”

Now for the EV6 itself, it was designed under the brand’s new design philosophy ‘Opposites United’, which takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity. At the center of the design, philosophy is a new visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes.

For the exterior now, at the front, there are characteristic daytime running lights that display a sleek, modern appearance. The side profile displays a crossover-inspired design aesthetic, which looks very modern, sleek, and aerodynamic.

Above this, it gets a prominent roof spoiler that channels air downwards towards a raised lower spoiler which sits atop the car’s unique rear light cluster. So the EV6 is the result of a collaborative effort between all three studios in Kia’s global design network in Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (California, US).

For the interiors now, there is a seamless high-tech curved high-definition audiovisual and navigation (AVN) screen. Below the AVN screen, there are passengers who control Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning settings by using haptic buttons. The seats however are slim, lightweight, and give a modern look visually. They are made using robust fabrics using recycled plastics, which create a greater opening in the cabin.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions on this post Kia reveals its new design philosophy with full images of the new EV6, by dropping a comment down below.

Okinawa sees a 30% boost in sale of electric scooters because of Petrol price hike

By

Madhav Banka

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March 15, 2021

Okinawa Autotech has witnessed a 30% increase in sales over the last quarter. The company has got a boost due to the growing fuel prices in India. Besides that, Okinawa is also receiving a good amount of inquiries. So this is a post on Okinawa sees a 30% boost in sale of electric scooters because of Petrol price hike.

Also read, Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift to launch in India on 16th March

Commenting on this, Mr. Jeetender Sharma, MD & Founder, Okinawa Autotech said, “The EV sector in India is rapidly growing since the last three years as both the central and state governments have been taking many initiatives to promote the adoption of Electric vehicles. The recent hike in fuel prices has further pushed consumers to look for alternate options such as electric vehicles. We as a company have witnessed the hike and aim to provide the electric vehicles that are at par with the ICE engine.”

With the prices of petrol going closer to Rs 100 per litre, the demand for electric two-wheelers has been boosted. People are becoming more aware of Electric-two-wheelers and are also taking the responsibility to reduce the carbon footprint, and as a result, the sale of Okinawa products have increased in India and the company is growing at a pace of 35% to 40% this year in the sale of Electric-vehicles. Okinawa has also emerged as one of the leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers who sold the second-highest no. of high-speed electric scooters in 2020.

Currently, the company has six electric scooters in its lineup in the price range of Rs 50,000 to Rs 1.14 lakh. These are a number of vehicles which include Li-ion Slow Speed & Li-ion High-Speed Scooters. In the low-speed range, they also offer 3 products namely Okinawa R30, Okinawa Lite, and Okinawa Dual. Whereas, the 3 high-speed products are Okinawa Ridge+, Okinawa Praise Pro, and Okinawa iPraise+. This year, the brand could also be launching 2 more new high-speed Electric two-wheelers.

Well with that said, do let us know your opinions if you liked this post Okinawa sees a 30% boost in sale of electric scooters because of Petrol price hike by dropping a comment down below.