Mahindra 2 Wheelers inaugurates future ready R&D facility in Pune

Unveils new engine range & India’s first scooter with Micro Hybrid technology

Synopsis: Ø  Created at an investment of Rs. 100 crore Ø  Third largest two wheeler R&D facility in India with recognition from Department of Science and Industrial Research (DSIR) Ø  Home to over 175 engineers and designers; to go up to 300 Ø  Multi-faceted R&D facility with state-of-the-art Engine Development Center (EDC), vehicle design & development facility, testing facilities, prototype center, design studio, Fatigue Test Lab etc. Ø  Showcase’s M&M’s commitment to technology driven innovation

PUNE, INDIA, July 4th 2012 – Mahindra 2 Wheelers, a part of the USD 15.4 billion Mahindra Group, today formally inaugurated its new Research and Development centre in Pune. The future ready centre which is the third largest of its kind in India was inaugurated by Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra Group.

The centre has been recognised by the Department of Science and Industrial Research (DSIR) and will enable Mahindra Two Wheelers to undertake in-house design and development of engine technology for its motorcycles as well. It thus, bears further testimony to the company’s commitment to utilize technology driven innovation to emerge as a serious player in the highly competitive two-wheeler market in India.

The company also unveiled two brand new engines developed at the facility. The first is an indigenously developed and tested 110cc engine, while the second is a 300cc cutting-edge liquid cooled engine.

“The new dedicated facility will enable us to harness the technology of the future to create tomorrow’s products. It will allow us to design in India, for the discerning Indian consumer. The Micro Hybrid technology developed for the new Duro DZ is a clear validation of the value it offers the business. In future, I am sure we will see this R&D facility emerge as a symbol of Indian ingenuity,” said Anand Mahindra.

Home to over 175 engineers and designers, the new Mahindra Two Wheelers R&D facility was created at an investment of about Rs. 100 crore and has two wheeler experts who are leading various technology and product development projects. In fact, the new Duro DZ and the recently launched Rodeo RZ with the all new ‘Z’ series engine were developed at this facility. This engine series incorporates the pioneering Dual Curve Digital Ignition (DCDI) technology and patented fuel level indication system.

“The Mahindra Two Wheelers R&D Centre will provide us with the dual benefits of indigenous design at lower costs and shortened product development lifecycles. These two tangible benefits, when coupled with a considerably shortened go-to-market strategy with newer and more technologically superior products, augurs well for the future of the business.

I am also happy to announce that Mahindra Two Wheelers is set to launch three new motorcycles in this financial year. We are committed to our customers and will go to any length to ensure that they get truly world-class products, at competitive price points to drive on Indian roads,” said Anoop Mathur, President – Two Wheeler Sector.

But taking pride of place at the inauguration was the all new start–stop Duro DZ, India’s first scooter with Micro Hybrid technology which is ideal for urban areas. This technology helps conserve fuel when the scooter is idle, such as at a traffic signal, resulting in increased savings.

Commenting on the direct and indirect benefits of the new R&D center, PS Ashok, Head – Research and Development, Mahindra Two Wheelers said, “This multi-faceted R&D facility boasts of truly advanced facilities in the two wheeler industry in India including a Design Studio, Prototyping Center, Engine Development Center (EDC), CAE/CFD facility, Fatigue Test and Reliability Lab, and an Electrical and Electronics Lab, amongst others. The centre will develop prototypes and components from design through to production, which will then be transferred to the company’s brand new production lines at Mahindra Two Wheelers’ Pithampur plant.”

A crucible for innovation – from conception to production

Mahindra Two Wheelers’ new state-of-the-art R&D Centre located in Pune will encourage a collaborative approach, permitting direct knowledge transfer between various teams. It promises to be a cradle of innovation for Mahindra 2 Wheelers allowing it to indigenously develop state-of-the-art products right from conception through to mass production.

Design Studio

A state-of-the-art design studio has been created exclusively for rendering visualization, clay mockup and digitization of new products for the future. This centre is fully equipped with the most modern software and hardware which will facilitate vehicle design and integration.

Engine Development & Testing Centre

The Engine Development and Testing centre will address various issues involved in the development of engines. This integrated center will help Mahindra Two Wheelers indigenously design, modify, develop, calibrate and evaluate existing as well as new engines based on parameters like performance, reliability, durability, legislative and customer requirements.

CAE /CFD Facilities (Computer Aided Engineering / Computational Fluid Dynamics)

The CAE / CFD facilities will provide Mahindra 2 Wheelers with the enhanced capability to capture realistic road conditions at the design stage through various advanced simulation tools and techniques, a critical component of Mahindra Two Wheelers’ ‘First Time Right Design’ policy. 

Hyundai Launches the Online Service Website

Another first from Hyundai - they have today launched an Online Service website dedicated to its valued customers at http://customercare.hyundai.co.in.
The official press release for the same follows

Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL), the country’s second largest car manufacturer and the largest passenger car exporter in an attempt to enhance its customer relationship announces the Online Service website dedicated to its valued customers. A multifaceted online service will be live today and will be available to all the Hyundai car owners. The micro site will be available on Hyundai’s corporate website.
On the launch of the service website Mr. Arvind Saxena Director, Sales and Marketing, HMIL said, “We feel proud to introduce first of its kind service which will bring value added services to its customers. Hyundai always illustrates the idea of providing more to its customers with new innovations, experiences and values beyond their expectations. This initiative will streamline and enhance the after sales services for our customers”.
This website site will offer personalized services like service scheduler-reminder, on-line service booking, history - periodic service details,Service & insurance calculators, nearest service station locator etc. and other valued information in the form of ready reckoner which will encapsulate warranty guidelines, owner’s manuals, maintenance tips and guides. Customers will also be notified for the promotional services along with the Value added services including expertise recommendations, schemes benefits and the prices. To enrich customer’s ownership experience Hyundai Service website will educate its customers on safety driving tips and suggest on better driving habits. URL: http://customercare.hyundai.co.in
Additional information on some of the prominent features of Hyundai Service Website
Personalized Service - An all-inclusive feature tool comprising:

• Ø Online service booking - Customers can book his car for service using website across India 
• Ø Service Calculator - Customer can calculate cost of service based on periodic schedule along with a fixed service menu. The prices shown are city specific and parts MRPs are considered for cost calculations. 
• Ø Service Scheduler - A customer can enable or disable the service reminder based on the Hyundai service schedule and can enable reminder of specific desired date. 
• Ø Service History – Customers can view service history detail like date of service, mileage, dealership name, type of service & bill amount. 
• Ø Price Information - Customers can see the labor charges applied in his city as well as the price of various value added service offered by Hyundai 
• Ø Owner’s Manual - Specific manual of the car can be downloaded. 
• Ø Insurance calculator - Owners can calculate not only the cost of insurance for his vehicle but also can calculate the car insurance values along with the NCB (No Claim Bonus), electrical accessories and bi-fuel options. Customer can also send their request to buy insurance. 
• Warranty – A tool which gives information about vehicle, parts & emission warranty along with the benefits, price & details of extended warranty. Customer can also send their request to buy extended warranty. 
• Driving & safety tips – It will enable a customer to view driving conditions (Monsoon and winters) along with the safety tips. 
• Guides & manuals – It will educate a customer on various features and the methods on fuel saving tips. A guide will help customers to understand the importance of various parts, consumable required and replacement at regular intervals. 
• Camps & events – Automatic notification will be provided on various ongoing camps & schedules to avail the benefits. 
• Thru connect feature – Dealers and the addresses can be mapped with the help of this navigation tool. 
• Under Maintenance Tips – ‘Do It Yourself’ tip will allow the customers to replace tyres, fuse, bulb on their own.

Hero Ignitor launched from price of Rs 55,900 in India

 

Hero MotoCorp has finally launched the much awaited 125cc offering, the sexy looking Ignitor in India. Prices start at Rs 55,900 for this bike. Here is the official press release of the same

HERO MOTOCORP AUGMENTS PRESENCE IN DELUXE SEGMENT WITH LAUNCH OF “IGNITOR” NEW 125CC BIKE NOW AVAILABLE IN MARKET, ATTRACTIVELY PRICED AT RS. 55,900/- 

New Delhi, July 3, 2012: Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has further strengthened its presence in the deluxe segment with the launch of its new motorcycle – Hero “Ignitor”. Close on the heels of the first “Hero” branded scooter Maestro, which was launched just over a month ago, comes the “Ignitor”. It is attractively priced at Rs. 55,900/- for the drum-self-cast variant and Rs 57,900/- for the disc-self-cast variant (both prices ex-showroom Delhi). Ignitor comes with the power of new generation 125 cc ATFT engine which offers a peak power output of 11PS at 8000rpm.

The sporty looking bike is loaded with impressive features that include digital-analog combo meter console, stylish split seat, classy front cowl, striking trapezoidal headlight, dazzling tail light, adjustable rear shock-absorbers, body-coloured rear grip and dual tone rear view mirrors.
Mr. Anil Dua, Sr. Vice President (Marketing & Sales), Hero MotoCorp said, “Every new launch of Hero MotoCorp flows from a clear strategy to further consolidate its leadership position across segments. With "Ignitor", we aim to bolster our presence in the growing deluxe segment. It combines sturdiness and superior technology with contemporary style and yet comes with an attractive price tag. We are confident that with such an irresistible package, Ignitor would definitely appeal across the young adult segments.” Besides being available in two variants, Ignitor comes in four exciting colour options - Pearl White, Sports Red, Vibrant Blue and Panther Black Metallic. With this, Hero MotoCorp has already launched three new models in quick succession – the Impulse, Maestro and now Ignitor. The company had showcased all these models at the Auto Expo in Delhi in January this year along with yet-to-be launched 110cc motorcycle “Passion X Pro”.
HMCL already has a very strong presence in the 125cc space where it straddles the segment with two clear positioning planks with two powerful brands - Glamour and the Super Splendor. Glamour appeals to youngsters as the most attractive bike with its ‘Simply Magnetic’ positioning, while Super Splendor has its own loyal customer base as the strong and reliable functional bike with exceptional performance.
HMCL on Monday reported its best-ever quarterly sales, riding on two consecutive months of record sales. With sales of 5,34,091 units in the month of June, HMCL’s cumulative sales for the first quarter (April-June) of this financial year (2012-13) clocked 16,42,292 units - its highest-ever sales in any single quarter. The company had sold 5,56,644 two-wheelers in May, its highest-ever monthly sales, surpassing its previous highest of 5,51,557 units, recorded only the previous month (April’12). The company had sold 15,29,577 units in the corresponding quarter of the last financial year (2011-12). The month of June also marks the 11th successive month of five lakh-plus unit sales for HMCL, which highlights the company’s robust performance since embarking on its solo journey just over a year ago. HMCL recently announced its largest-ever investment of over Rs 2500 crore in setting up new plants, expanding capacity at the existing plants and in building an integrated R&D centre. The company announced its plans to set up two new plants – at Neemrana in Rajasthan and in Gujarat. The company will also be soon setting up an integrated state-of-the-art Technology/R&D centre spread over 250 acres at Kukas, Jaipur in Rajasthan, which is going to be the largest two-wheeler R&D centre in the country.

Land Rover 'Journey of Discovery' Raises One Million Pounds for IFRC's Water and Sanitation Project in Uganda

Pictured left to right: Mark Cameron, Land Rover Global Brand Experience Director presents a cheque for £1million (GBP) to Mark Astarita, Director of Fundraising for the British Red Cross, next to the One Millionth Land Rover Discovery vehicle at Goodwood Festival of Speed

The Land Rover ‘Journey of Discovery’ has raised £1million for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). 

Mark Cameron, Land Rover Global Brand Experience Director, presented the cheque to Mark Astarita (Director of Fundraising, British Red Cross) at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where Land Rover is celebrating the ‘Journey of Discovery’ this weekend.

This landmark effort is Land Rover's most ambitious fundraising project to date and supports a much-needed water and sanitation project in Uganda. The IFRC is Land Rover's global humanitarian partner and the project is in addition to the three-year global initiative "Reaching Vulnerable People Around the World".  This initiative, launched in 2010, provides additional support for IFRC programmes in over 15 countries worldwide.

The 50-day ‘Journey of Discovery’ from Birmingham to Beijing, was one of the most epic and ambitious modern-day overland journeys and celebrated the production of the One Millionth Land Rover Discovery - the world's most capable and versatile SUV.

Pictured left to right: Mark Astarita, Director of Fundraising for the British Red Cross accepts the £1million (GBP) cheque, raised by Land Rover, at Goodwood Festival of Speed. The funds will go towards a much-needed water and sanitation project in Uganda, benefitting over 45,000 people

Handing over the cheque, John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director said: "Land Rover is delighted to have reached the target £1,000,000 in aid of the IFRC – an organization we have had a relationship with since 1954." "It’s an absolutely fantastic achievement and I’d like to express my gratitude to the extended ‘Land Rover family’ that got involved including dealers, suppliers and employees around the world.”

“It is truly incredible that a basic human right such as clean water – something we take for granted everyday – is still the most common and preventable underlying cause of disease and death today. The funds raised will be supporting a water and sanitation project in Uganda, which we hope will help over 45,000 beneficiaries and make a substantial difference to the community."

Goli Ameri, Under Secretary General, Humanitarian Values and Diplomacy, of the IFRC said: “We are grateful for Land Rover’s support which will enable us to reach many more vulnerable people in Uganda who are in need of clean water and sanitation. Uganda is one of the countries worst affected by a lack of safe water and although water supply is crucial, sanitation and hygiene are equally important. With Land Rover’s generous assistance, we will now be able to reach thousands of people in Uganda with these life-saving resources."

As the expedition wound its way over 10,000 miles of varied terrain, via 13 countries and travelled through a mix of urban and off-road destinations, it revealed some fascinating stories.

The One Millionth Land Rover Discovery on the Land Rover stand, at Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new show stand is inspired by the Discovery production line – right down to the black-and-yellow hazard markings, recreating the scene inside one of Jaguar Land Rover's production

From avalanches in the Aosta Valley (Geneva) to a police escort in Heroes Square (Budapest), to the ghost town of Pripyat in Chernobyl (Ukraine) and submarine shelters in the Black Sea (Balaklava). Throw in an exclusive tour of the Kremlin (Moscow), gliding in the Uzbekistan desert, meeting camels in Dunhuang’s Golbi desert, and after a stop at the Great Wall, on the home straight to Beijing Auto Show in China. Without a scratch, but caked in the dirt of adventure, this one-in-a-million journey was over.

The One Millionth Land Rover Discovery vehicle is on display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (29 June – 1 July), where Land Rover are celebrating the ‘Journey of Discovery’ with a stand that replicates a JLR manufacturing facility and an experience area that is themed around the expedition.

CarZ signs up with Corporate Services Plan for extended warranty

CarZ signs up with Corporate Services Plan


A first of its kind Warranty Program in India is being offered by CarZ, a multi-brand car service network. They have tied up with Corporate Services Plan India to provide Extended Warranty for cars across all their 14 service outlets in India. Here is the official press release of the same. 


CarZ, a multi-brand car service network, today announced their tie-up with Corporate Services Plan India to provide Extended Warranty for cars across all their 14 service outlets in India. This is a first of its kind Warranty Program in India that will provide extended warranty for passenger cars beyond the manufacture’s warranty period.
The Extended Warranty plan offers Peace-of-Mind cover protecting the owner from the cost of repair or replacement of components along with the associated labour cost for the vehicle. Based on the plan opted, the plan will cover Automatic Gearbox, Braking system, Diesel Injection System, Electrical system, Engine, Front Wheel Drive System, Fuel System, Manual Gearbox, Propeller shaft, Rear Axle, Suspension & Steering System. The plan comes at an affordable price of Rs. 5 per day.
The services to be provided to customers shall be under three different warranty programs which include - Platinum: Comprehensive warranty coverage; Gold: Semi comprehensive warranty coverage applicable and Silver: Good basic drive line coverage.


Mr. Venu Donepudi, Founder and Managing Director of CarZ said, “ We are pleased to tie-up with Corporate Services Plan, which is India’s leading provider of Extended Warranty, to offer our customers a hassle free motoring experience. We will be offering this at a competitive price with an option to choose from a basic cover to a comprehensive cover. This partnership will further enhance our commitment to provide our customers with various value-added offerings and services, that will go a long-way in making their motoring experience pleasurable.”


Mr. Vijay Gummadi, Founder & CEO of CarZ said, “ We foresee our customers benefit in numerous ways. The benefits include, enhanced value of vehicle through regular servicing and warranty protection, enhanced vehicle resale value, wide service network of quality repairers, use of high quality replacement parts and uniform service standards. ”

Honda (HMSI) family now comprises of 10 million customers

 Honda family now rejoices with 10 million Happy Customers

•  Realizes ‘The Power of Dreams’ of 10 Million Happy Customers in just 11 years of operations
•  HMSI achieves last 10th million in record 5 months
• ‘India’s Fastest Growing 2Wheeler Company’ continues connecting with customers at faster pace

Honda has come a long way in India in the two-wheeler domain. They are now the number three manufacturer of two-wheelers in the country and with the Dream Yuga motorcycle launched, seem all set to be a strong number two player. Over the years, the company has sold over 10 million vehicles in India. This is the official press release of the same milestone. 

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI), the only Honda in Indian 2Wheeler industry created new history today by adding 10 million happy customers cumulatively. 
From achieving its 1st million mark in five years to achieving the last 10th million in just 5 months, Honda has aggressively grown to meet increasing customer demand inn India - the World’s second largest two-wheeler market and a priority market for Honda for the next decade and more.


Speaking on this achievement, Mr. Keita Muramatsu – President & CEO, HMSI said- “ We at Honda are proud that together as a Team, we have today successfully given Joy of mobility to over 10 Million Happy Customers. This milestone re-affirms the deep trust of customers for Brand Honda. Going ahead, Honda will intensify its efforts to rapidly expand production, network and continue to achieve many more million smiles introducing advanced Indian centric products across all motorcycle & scooter segments to realize our Dreams for India.”


Expressing sincere thanks to Honda customers, Mr. Y. S Guleria – Vice President, Sales & Marketing, HMSI said –“ Achieving the 10 million customer mark in this significant year as Only Honda in India has both humbled and inspired us. We thank our valued customers and reaffirm that as the Fastest Growing2Wheeler Company of India, Honda shall continue to provide high quality India specific products and benchmark services backed with increased production capability to achieve its Dream of Mobility for
All.”


HMSI came into existence on 14 Dec, 1999 and its first production facility at Manesar started operations in 2001. Since inception, the ‘Wings’ have aggressively expanded to serve customers faster. From operating its two production facilities at Manesar (Haryana) and Tapukara (Rajasthan) to rapidly moving towards construction of its upcoming third facility at Narsapuram, Karnataka; Honda is today uniquely poised to reach 4 million annual production capacity by 2013.


Matching its pace with The Power of Dreams of a billion Indians, HMSI has rapidly increased its network. In current FY’2012-13, Honda aims to add 500 new touch-points and take its growing network to 2000 touch-points in a bid to spread its reach and provide service closer to customer.


For over a decade, Honda’s consistency of providing high quality products and services has instilled a deep trust and confidence amongst Indian customers in the ‘Wings’.From its first model ‘Activa’ which gave a new life to scooter segment and is India’s largest selling automatic scooter to its latest product ‘Dream Yuga’ which marks the Company’s entry in mass motorcycle segment; all 15 quality Honda products are highly popular among Indian customers.


Throughout this journey, Honda has been the Industry First to promote Fun, Safety and Environment in India. As a responsible manufacturer, HMSI has till date trained over 1.7 lac customers, children and women on road safety. On the environment front, Honda works on reducing & reusing waste, resource conservation, improved efficiency and other initiatives at its factory, dealer and supplier premises.

Volvo CNG City Bus trials commence in Mumbai

Volvo has taken the bus segment by storm in India and easily controls most of the segment with its offerings like the B7R and B9R. Similarly, in the city transport domain, Volvo City Bus has set a perfect example in various cities and recently, the CNG City Bus started trails in Mumbai. Here is the official press release of the same event


Press Release

Volvo CNG City Bus trials commence in Mumbai


Volvo Buses today started trials of the Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus in Mumbai. Mr. Ashok Patil, Chairman of Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply & Transport Undertaking (BEST) flagged off the bus from Oshiwara depot. Manish Sahi, Managing Director, Volvo Buses in India was present on the occasion. Senior officials of BEST were also present at the ceremony. This initiative has been made possible with support from BEST.


Following the successful trials in New Delhi and Navi Mumbai, the Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus will now run in Mumbai. The CNG city bus, like all products from the Volvo stable, adheres to the highest quality, safety and technology standards. The high-performance CNG engine has been designed to meet the rigours of city driving conditions.


Akash Passey, Senior Vice President – Business Region International, Volvo Bus Corporation and Chairman of the Board, Volvo Buses in India said, “Volvo Buses’ understanding of the customer and passenger needs has reflected in the kind of products it has developed for Indian cities. The Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus has been adapted for specific needs and is an effective solution to address sustainable public transport and clean technology concerns. We are happy that BEST has decided to run trials with this bus. We are confident that passengers in Mumbai will experience the quality, comfort and motivation to travel that this bus offers.”


Volvo today has the richest experience in high-performing coaches and city buses with its city buses today operating in 13 cities of India. Backed by world-renowned Volvo Technology, The design of the Volvo CNG City bus is an outcome of this very experience and close collaboration between product designers in Sweden and India.


The Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus typifies the strengths of Volvo in terms of reliability, better performance, optimal operating costs, passenger & driver comfort and safety. It has the best power-to-weight ratio in its class and a perfectly matched driveline enhances the driving performance. The low-entry at the front and in the middle, means it is easy to get on and off, even for passengers with impaired mobility.


The CNG variant also houses the new transmission from Volvo - Ecolife, which aims to offer the driver and passengers a superior drive experience. It offers significant fuel reduction opportunities due to a fine-tuned optimised gear system which operates at the most efficient speed ranges in terms of fuel consumption. The bus is equipped with intelligent systems to recognise when a vehicle is moving into idle or into gear thereby reducing fuel consumption again.


The Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus will now have an even stronger retarder system which ensures that the ride is even more jerk-free than ever. There is also far little noise in turn and much lesser heat passed onto the brakes.


Safety is a core value at Volvo Buses and the Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus is yet another instance of a product designed to offer enhanced safety to drivers and passengers. The CNG city bus has unique features such as self-diagnostics and sensors for crash, heat & fire detection that increase safety levels in the bus.


·         Container valve, self-diagnostics
The containers are equipped with a self-test device, monitored by fuel tank monitor to ensure the function of the container’s solenoid valves. Each time the bus’ main switch is turned on, the self-test is put in stand-by state. When the engine is started and runs at idle, the solenoid valves are opened one at a time and the system runs a cycle that tests the function of all solenoid valves. If the throttle is opened, the test is stopped but starts again as soon as the engine is at idle. Once the test -cycle is completed, all solenoid valves are opened, even at idle.


·         Crash Sensor
The crash sensor equipped at the electrical box above the driver area is connected to the fuel tank monitor. In case, there is sudden drop in the system pressure or if there is a huge impact on the vehicle due to accident the crash sensor would get activated shutting of all the cylinders via the solenoid. There will be no fuel supply from the container till the crash sensor is reset after vehicle repair is completed.


·         Heat Sensor
The heat sensors are located in the engine cabin side. In the event of higher than normal heat is detected, driver immediately gets a warning. This is a crucial system and can avoid any imminent fire hazard.


·         Fire Sensor
The fire sensors located inside the engine cabin is equipped with an automatic fire extinguisher of power type. As soon as the fire is detected, powder would be sprayed all across the engine thus extinguishing the flames. This system can also be activated manual by a switch located at the driver area.




Today, Volvo city buses are being operated in 13 cities across India – Bangalore, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Mysore, Mangalore, Faridabad, Chennai, Vellupuram, Thiruvanathapuram, Kochi, and Hyderabad.


The Volvo 8400 low-floor CNG city bus is built at the state-of-the-art manufacturing plant of Volvo Buses in Hoskote near Bangalore. The factory and overall profile of being a complete transport solutions provider, gives Volvo Buses a unique ability to be in the best position to understand the needs of the Indian market and configure products accordingly.