Jaguar Land Rover to invest £100 million in China factory

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover is planning an investment of £100 million to build a factory in China, according to the Xiaoxiang Morning Herald newspaper.

JLR CEO Ralf Speth said the company will make 50,000 cars a year in China, with production starting as soon as the carmaker finds a suitable Chinese partner. So far, Chery Automobile has confirmed it has already submitted details regarding a cooperation with JLR to government authorities, with the two manufacturers likely to begin working together soon.

Jaguar Land Rover sold 37,000 vehicles in China in the first 11 months of this year, with most of the sales (32,000 units) being Land Rover cars. According to JLR China senior sales manager Tom Bury, JLR’s sales performance this year exceeded expectations. Growth rates in the Chinese luxury segment are still far above the industry average.

In May this year, JLR owner Tata Motors said it will begin Chinese production of Jaguars and Land Rovers within two years. JLR has since started talks with several automakers in the past, Jiangling, Geely, Changfeng and Great Wall. Finally, JLR agreed a deal with Chery Automobile, China’s best-selling car brand.



JLR wants to introduce 40 new models over the next five years, most of them for China. The UK-based manufacturer will continue to expand its dealer network in China, aiming to have a total of 100 dealerships by the end of the year.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Range Rover Evoque by Kahn Design revealed

Range Rover Evoque by Kahn Design

The British tuners at Kahn Design have revealed a new design kit for the Range Rover Evoque, which brings more aggressiveness to the British crossover.

Kahn Design is a British aftermarket specialist who prefers to take on large projects, mostly SUVs, and this latest creation proves that a trained eye does all the work. Even if this isn’t the first time when the tuner is working on a Range Rover Evoque, the aggressiveness brought to the exterior design made us want to present it. As you can see from the images posted in the gallery below, the Range Rover Evoque made by Kahn Design has a lot in common with the LRX concept.

The main modifications brought to the English crossover are mostly based on the body colors, the rims and the unique personalized elements. The Evoque is standing out from the crowd thanks to the lowered suspension (35 mm), to the orange roof, which is reminding us of the DS3 Racing made by Citroen, by the huge rims, which can be ordered in sizes between 20 and 22 inches, by the yellow brake calipers, black windows and silver paint, all of the bringing a new design. The tuner is telling us that the interior can also be modified, starting with the dashboard shades and ending with the possibility of bringing just about any trim color, including the one on your pants.

More Images:


Source: INAUTONEWS

Tata Manza Electric Hybrid concept to be showcased at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo!

Tata Manza Sedan

It seems like Indian car makers are jumping on to the electric car bandwagon in a big way. The latest buzz in Motown is about Tata Motors being all set to pull the wraps off an electric hybrid version of the Tata Manza sedan. Joining the likes of the Mahindra Verito Electric will be the Manza Hybrid, which seeks to wow showgoers at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo. Tata Motors has been bullish about electric cars for some time now.

We had the Indica Electric Concept and the Vista Electric Concept being displayed at various auto shows across the globe, both cars running on lithium ion batteries. The Manza Electric too could follow in these cars’ footsteps to be another offering from Tata Motors which might have an electric future. Other details about this car remain unknown at the moment and we’ll have to wait for the Expo to find out more about this exciting new concept from Tata.

Also, the Manza might see a styling makeover to go with its latest avatar as a hybrid car. Expect this styling makeover to filter down to the next generation Manza sedan as and when it sees a facelift. So, in essence, the Manza Hybrid could be a glimpse of things to come from Tata Motors. All in all, it is quite heartening to see Indian car makers making progress on the electric car front and we hope that these concepts will actually see mass production in the years to come.



In 2012, the Tata Manza will see a compact sedan variant as the latest edition to its line up. The Tata Manza Compact Sedan will be positioned between the Vista Hatchback and the full size Manza Sedan. This car will take on the likes of the Maruti Dzire Compact Sedan and the Mahindra Verito Compact Sedan, two other cars which are set to see a 2012 debut.

Source: ICB

Nano 2012 May Cost More In Year 2012

Tata Nano 2012

Next year onwards, you may have to cough up more to own a Nano. Tata Motors is seriously considering increasing prices of its ultra low-cost car.

The price hike is expected to be in the range of Rs. 5,000 on its newly-launched Nano 2012 model. However, the timeframe of the hike is currently not known. “Tata Motors will have to increase prices as the product was launched at a similar price to that of the previous Nano,” said sources. When contacted, a company spokesperson said, “We do not give guidance on pricing.”

The company in November had introduced additional features for the Nano at the same price point. The upgraded Nano features new interiors, a powerful gasoline engine and better fuel efficiency. “The cost is going up on the material side due to rupee fluctuations. Also, the new Nano is generating good response from customers, hence it would be easy for the company to pass on the hike,” said an analyst with a domestic brokerage, requesting anonymity.

On the other hand, experts feel that the recent replacement of starter motors in all older models of the Nano could affect the sales of Nano 2012 on a short-term basis. According to a news report, Tata Motors is substituting the old starter motor with a new and ‘better’ one, currently used in Nano 2012. The company will replace this component free of cost for around 1,40,000 Nanos sold so far.

According to a Tata Motors spokesperson, the exercise cannot be termed as a recall. “We are just replacing the component. The exercise was started in October and has already covered 50,000 vehicles so far,” he said.

“Indian customers do not forgive easily. The market is anyway weak. The incident might have a short term impact on the new Nano sales,” said V G Ramakrishnan, director with Frost and Sullivan.



Analysts say the replacement exercise undertaken by Tata Motors is by far the biggest in the India. Recently, Toyota recalled 41,000 Etios and Liva cars to replace a faulty inlet pipe to the fuel tank. Similarly, Honda Siel in September recalled 72,115 units of City sedan to fix faulty power window switches.

Sales of the Tata Nano were 6,401 numbers in November 2011, compared to 509 units sold in November last year. Tata Motors sold 39,646 units Nano between April and November 2011, compared to 40,976 units sold during the same period last year.

Source: DNA India

Tata Safari Storme SUV: More images surface and along with it new details!

Come 2012, Tata will launch an upgraded Safari in the Indian market. Just days ago, we learnt that the Merlin name was more of a codename for the refreshed Safari project and that Tata Motors could settle on the Safari storm moniker for the new Safari, making us wonder whether the existing Safari would continue to sell as a cut price variant. In the past, we’ve seen this happen in many cases like the Ford Fiesta staying on as the Classic when the all new Fiesta arrived and the Tata Indica continuing to do duty with the Vista being positioned as a more upmarket variant.

Tata Safari Storm's Rear

From the images our friends at GoaOnWheels are carrying of the Safari Storm, it is evident that the SUV that is being seen in the images will be what the final production version will look like. While the Safari Storm will get a new dashboard and interiors, the rear end will dump the spare wheel from the tailgate. Instead, it seems like the spare wheel will find a place inside the car, under the boot. Tata has gone this way in the past with the Aria and the Safari Storm will follow in this direction. The rear hatch lid gets a chrome strip running across its breadth while a fiber insert, a-la-Indica Vista is another new visual element.

Tata Safari Storm Side Profile

Other details like twin exhaust, new tail lamps and a more curvier profile are things that we’ve already been witness to courtesy the numerous spyshots of the Safari Storm that have been surfacing on the interweb at regular intervals. All in all, the Safari Storm still manages to retain the now iconic Safari silhouette although the front end also sees a big change with new headlamps, a chrome strip on the bonnet and a new grille apart from new bumpers and a bonnet. The engine will remain the same 2.2 Liter DICOR turbo diesel unit. The 2012 Tata Safari Storm will be showcased at the upcoming 2012 Indian Auto Expo.

Source: ICB

Tata Motors showcasing its pixel concept at Delhi Auto Expo

Two interesting news pertaining to Tata Motors is doing the rounds of the auto market these days. One of this is extremely good news for its consumers whereas the other one is bound to disappoint a lot of them.



Let us discuss the good news first. Tata Motors, the leading car manufacturer from India, is going to display its latest Tata Pixel concept at the upcoming 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The Tata Pixel is going to be a compact small car in similar lines to the Tata Nano, but can be electrically operated as well. The images that have surfaced clearly displays that this compact car is a four-seater but will have one upward opening wing-shaped door on each side. The car is going to get its power from a three-cylinder 1.2L diesel engine that is going to be mated to an automatic CVT gearbox.

Tata Pixel Concept coming at 2012 Delhi Auto Expo

The car is expected to be extremely fuel efficient and if the claims of the auto major can be believed then it is going to offer a mileage of 35km/liter. The car has also been designed to offer extremely low emission, which would be somewhere around 89gm/km, even on the diesel variant. It has, however, not been confirmed by the manufacturer as to whether this pixel concept is being offered for launch in the Indian market or not. Predicting on the same is not appropriate at this point of time, considering the fact that the car is not going into production anytime in the immediate future. Also, the designing of the car as well as the high-tech gadgets it has been provided with indicates that the car is going to find a more worthy positioning in the international market compared to India.

Coming back to the disappointing news, it seems that the high anticipation levels of consumers to see the Tata Nano Diesel at the Delhi Auto Expo, is not going to be met. The diesel version of the Nano was eagerly awaited particularly with its promised mileage in the range of 32-35km/liter. Experts feel that the launch of the Diesel Nano has been shifted to a later date as Tata wants its consumers to swoon over its latest Tata pixel concept at the Expo. However, pushing the Diesel variant Nano launch to a later date seems sensible as this will give the 2012 petrol variant of the Tata Nano the opportunity to keep enjoying the success it is receiving alone without having to share it with its diesel counterpart.

Tata Pixel Concept coming at 2012 Delhi Auto Expo

Source: Indian Drives

JLR sales to boost Tata Motors​’ overall performance

With JLR revenue comprising two-thirds of Tata Motors’ revenue and three-fourths of its net profit, optimism about its consolidated performance for the current year is understandable

With three months to the close of FY12, it looks certain that Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) sales will elevate the overall performance of Tata Motors Ltd for the year. In spite of a deepening slowdown across the globe, JLR sales from April to November rose 19% over the year-ago period. Land Rover sales alone grew by 28%, as new vehicles such as Evoque and Defender attracted robust demand.




Throughout FY12, JLR has surprised investors with good numbers every month, making the full-year sales estimates more plausible. According to Umesh Karne of Brics Securities Ltd: “To achieve the current year forecast of 275,393 vehicles, the required run rate for the remaining months is 22,321 units per month. This seems possible given the successful launch of Evoque and rising sales in emerging markets.” Going by geographies, China’s share in JLR sales for the September quarter shot up to 16% from about 9.7% a year ago. What’s more, Land Rover sales are beating industry averages too. IDBI Capital Market Services Ltd points out, “Tata Motors management has not seen any signs of slowdown in its fast-growing markets like China, Russia, Brazil, Middle East, etc., led by growing aspirations of owning a European car, strong brand pull and relatively immune premium segment. Even US has been holding up well...” Analysts forecast 8-10% sales growth for JLR in FY13 over 2012.

With JLR revenue comprising two-thirds of Tata Motors’ revenue and three-fourths of its net profit, optimism about its consolidated performance for the current year is understandable. All the more so when Tata Motors’ domestic passenger segment is expected to register a contraction in sales volume during fiscal 2012.

Fortunately, commercial vehicle sales in the stand-alone business continue to defy expectations of subdued sales due to macroeconomic headwinds.

In spite of surging sales numbers, Tata Motors stock has underperformed both the BSE Sensex and the BSE Auto Index, though the gap has narrowed since the September quarter results were announced. A key reason for underperformance is the 250 basis points (bps) year-on-year drop in stand-alone operating margins during the September quarter, which squeezed consolidated margins by about 123 bps to around 13%. Full year 2012 consolidated profitability is expected to contract, too. One basis point is one-hundredth of a percentage point.



Strong JLR sales, however, would cushion the Tata Motors stock from downward risks. But upward momentum is likely only when the slowdown in the domestic automotive market abates.

Source: Live Mint

Tata Motors to replace starters in all Tata Nano

Tata Nano

Move to boost car’s performance, allay fears

Tata Motors is upgrading the starter motor of Nano to boost the car’s performance and also sales. The company’s dealers are in the process of calling back about 145,000 Nanos sold till date since its launch in July 2009. The old starter motor will be replaced with the new, upgraded version found in the Tata Nano 2012 edition, launched last month. The replacement will be done free of cost for Nano customers.

Though no formal safety hazard had been associated with old starter motor, the move appears to allay concerns about robustness of the Nano and its safety. The company is trying to restore customer confidence after several instances of the product having caught fire last year.

“In old Tata Nanos, we are upgrading the starter motor to enhance performance, because we have now devised a better starter motor. This better starter motor is already installed in the Tata Nano 2012, introduced in November 2012,” Tata Motors confirmed in an email response.

A starter motor or starter is an electric motor which helps rotate internal combustion engine to initiate the engine’s operation. While the 2012 Nano start up motor costs about Rs 3,000 a piece, adding labour charges, taxes and engine oil change takes the tally up to about Rs 7,600. By simple calculation, the cost bore by the company on 145,000 Nanos amounts to Rs 110 crore.

In November 2010, Tata had called back 70,000 Nanos to add free safety features in exhaust and electrical systems of the car to prevent any further cases of vehicle creating untoward fumes or catching fire. Even then, the company had refused to term the action as a recall. The company had then confirmed safety aspect of the Nano, blaming the causes of fire in the Nanos for reasons “specific” to those cars, which included use of additional foreign electrical equipment being installed in the car.



The car’s controversial history, coupled with the steady rise in interest rates and petrol prices has had its impact on Nano’s sales this financial year.

Tata Motors sold 39,646 Nanos between April and November 2011, registering a fall of three per cent compared with 40,976 units sold in year-ago period.

“The move to recall Nanos for upgrading the starter motor is a good move to create confidence with people who had bought the car earlier. The car manufacturer is trying things associated with the product to stabilise so that issues don’t occur regularly,” said Abdul Majeed, auto practice leader, PwC.

The Tata Nano 2012 costs between Rs 1,40,880 and Rs 1,96,956 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

Source: My Digital FC

Less is more for new Jaguar XF diesel

A new diesel engine and a facelift give Jaguar’s XF fresh appeal, says Andy Russell.

Downsizing is very much the name of the game with more and more motorists going for quality rather than quantity.

And that’s just what Jaguar has done with its facelifted XF saloon which also sees the introduction of a new entry-level engine which makes it the most efficient model from the prestige British brand.

The 2.2-litre turbo diesel, also used in the new Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Freelander, is the only four-cylinder engine in the Jaguar line-up and brings big gains in economy and emissions to the XF line-up. Equally important, especially since the popular entry X-Type model was dropped, it helps put the XF into more people’s price range with the smaller diesel £3,000 less than equivalent 3.0-litre V6 models while a new lead-in 2.2D SE model is £6,000 cheaper at just under £31,000 – and that makes the XF even more attractive.



The good news is that with no telltale badging it’s not obvious what lies beneath the bonnet – the only clue I could spot was a single exhaust pipe rather one each side on the V6 diesels and V8 petrol.

And the new engine makes a lot of sense.

Four cylinders rather than six means the new engine is not quite as smooth as the V6 but it’s still well refined and particularly quiet on the move, even under hard acceleration, thanks to extra sound-proofing on the new models.

But with 190PS on tap it has enough get-up-and-go for most drivers, without having to work it excessively hard, for safe and simple overtaking.

The new XF sees the launch of a new automatic transmission with eight gears instead of six for diesel models. Super slick, you barely notice the shifts whether going up and down the box and it kicks down readily or you can have some fun with the paddle shifts behind the steering wheel. But with seventh and eight gears being tall ‘overdrives’, between 60 and 70mph the gearbox can keep popping between ratios with the slightest pressure on the accelerator.

I had also expected particularly strong economy with the smaller engine, complete with automatic stop-start system, and eight-speed gearbox but was rather disappointed to consistently get 39-40mpg in everyday driving and never saw more than 44mpg even with a decent motorway run – well short of the combined figure of 52mpg but as a friend pointed out it was still a big step up over his 3.0-litre V6 S turbo diesel. That said, it’s disappointing compared to my experience of German rivals with similar-sized engines.

What won’t disappoint though is the way the XF drives. Even with the smaller, less powerful engine it is both hugely entertaining and luxurious, able to waft along motorways and fast A-roads with barely a swish from the big tyres as it soaks up bumps and lumps and remains composed over undulating dips and crests. At low speeds the firm ride is more noticeable, but while more sensitive to poor surfaces it never becomes unpleasant or uncomfortable. When it comes to handling, the XF is a delight to drive, flowing through a series of twists and turn with first-rate body control, sure-footed grip and precise, communicative steering.

It’s hard to believe that the XF, the car that took Jaguar design in a totally different direction, bringing it into the 21st century, has been around long enough to need a mid-life makeover and a few nips and tucks to continue looking fresh and exciting alongside newer German rivals.

That said, unless you know what you are looking for it’s hard to spot the difference. For the record, the revised XF is brought into line with the new XJ with an all-new front featuring slim headlights with distinctive LED lighting strips, a larger more upright grille, lower bonnet line with a wider power bulge and tweaked lower bumper. Subtle new vents are mounted in the front wings while the redesigned tail lamps feature LED lighting and extend further into the boot lid.



There has also been a mild makeover inside with fresh trim, more supportive seats, restyled steering wheels and revised switches for the ventilation system and new control screens. Beautifully trimmed and finished, it’s as classy as ever – switch it on and the air vents swivel open in the swathe of sporty metallic trim and the rotary gear selector knob rises out of the centre console. It never fails to impress, unlike the touch-screen controls for audio, climate and satellite-navigation which I had just about got to grips with by the time the car went back but my biggest gripe was the rather nasty-looking clock built into the driver information system. With electric adjustment for both the seat and steering wheel you can get the driving position spot-on no matter how big or small you are

Jaguar may call its XF a compact saloon but there’s no shortage of space for four adults with good legroom in the back although really tall passengers might find headroom on the tight side with the sloping roof. It is also unfortunate that a middle passenger in the back has to put up with a high transmission tunnel.

The 500-litre boot has good access and goes back a long way but it slopes up slightly and narrows at the back. Folding rear seat backs are optional but not fitted to my test car.

As well as the traditional Luxury, Premium Luxury and range-topping Portfolio trim levels, the 2.2D is also offered in new entry SE trim which sacrifices none of Jaguar’s tasteful class and creature comforts.

The XF has always been a superb saloon, the new model is the best of British and a case of less is more with the new smaller diesel engine the pick of the bunch if you are going to buy with your head as well as your heart.

Playboy 2012 Cars of the Year Announced

PLAYBOY Magazine

Playboy magazine announced the Jaguar XKR-S has been named its 2012 Car of the Year. Playboy’sCar of the Year choices are particularly worthy of mention because its panel is led by Ken Gross, a seasoned automotive journalist and hot-rod enthusiast who was former executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles.

The Jaguar XKR-S, which has a starting price of $132,000 for the coupe and $138,000 for the convertible, is the most-powerful production car Jaguar has built. Propelled by a 550-horsepower 5.0-liter supercharged V-8, the XKR-S runs from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and to a 186-mph top speed.

Playboy magazine announced the Jaguar XKR-S has been named its 2012 Car of the Year. 

Staying in the indecent pricing area, we also have the Lamborghini Aventador and the Bentley Continental GTC. Next, we enter the world of family go-fast fun, with the Audi A7 and the Mercedes CLS63 AMG. If you’re more of the egoist type, but still want to go fast, Playboy gives you the BMW 1M Coupe and the Ford Mustang Boss 302.

Those in the market for a crossover are directed toward the fresh Range Rover Evoque, while eco fans should go for the Lexus CT 200h, according to the magazine. For those with more limited budgets, Playboy recommends the Hyundai Veloster and the Fiat 500.

Source: Auto Evolution

Tata Safari Merlin Spied Yet Again; And name could be Safari STORME!

Tata Safari STORM

The Tata Merlin has been spotted yet again, in what appears to be a shoot for a commercial in Pune. This is a big giveaway that the launch of the Merlin could happen very soon and that it could be called the Safari Storm. Also, the Safari Storm will be showcased at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo by Tata Motors. The Tata Safari Storm is an upgraded Safari,and it remains to be seen whether it will be  positioned above the Safari, as Tata’s answer to Mahindra’s big selling XUV500 Crossover.

The Storm will retain the 2.2 Liter DICOR engine producing 140 Bhp of peak power and 320 Nm of peak torque. Transmission duties will be handled by a reworked 5 speed manual transmission and the four wheel drive option along with the low ratio will be made available on the top end variant of the Storm. What has changed on the Safari Storm visually lies in the cosmetics and the interiors of the SUV.

A new dashboard design with plenty of faux wood for effect is what the Storm will get along with a step up in the quality of the interiors. Revised headlamps and a front end design to make the Storm look more contemporary are the main changes up front while the rear also sees cosmetic changes to distinguish the Storm from the Safari. So, it seems like the Merlin name, which was used mainly for product development will be dumped in favor of the Tata Safari Storm, or perhaps even Tata Storm.

Prospective Safari Storm buyers would hope that Tata Motors has managed to sort out all the niggles that the current Safari has as that perhaps is the only way that the Safari Storm could mount a strong challenge to the Mahindra XUV500 Crossover, whose bookings are set to reopen in January 2012.



Source: ICB

Tata Motors to add almost 2 lakh fresh capacity for Ace family by Jan

Strong demand for the Ace light commercial vehicle (LCV) and its variants has encouraged Tata Motors to add almost two lakh additional annual capacity for the models by January-February.

The Pantnagar plant in Himachal Pradesh, dedicated to the Ace family, will see output rising to 4.5 lakh units a year. This is after production was increased just six months ago to 3.5 lakh units from 2.5 lakh. Another plant at Dharwad, Karnataka, will start production around the same time with an initial output of 90,000 units annually.

Strong growth

“The Ace and Magic segment is growing 30-40 per cent. We're implementing some changes in Pantnagar and as per an agreement with the Government, we can get certain benefits till a capacity of five lakh units,” said Mr Ravi Pisharody, President of Commercial Vehicles Business Unit at Tata Motors.

He added, “The Dharwad plant will come on stream in January-February. The initial capacity will be for Ace Zip and Magic Iris.”

The Ace LCV family comprises the 0.7 tonne Ace, Ace Zip (0.6 tonne), Super Ace (one tonne) and passenger versions based on the same platforms – Magic, Venture and Magic Iris. The company's Pantnagar plant gets certain lower excise tax benefits, apart from other sops, according to a previous Central Government incentive.

Higher demand

Tata Motors has been selling 15,000 units of the Ace monthly, apart from 2,500 Zip and 1,000 Super Ace. Though combined sales are about 18,500 units, another company official said that the demand is for at least 25,000 units a month.

“If the retail FDI proposal gets through, there is going to be a huge need for such LCVs in rural areas, apart from rising demand for last mile connectivity in cities. We want to be ready for that,” said the official.

Tata Motors expects to guard its market against recent competition in the around one ton LCV segment from Mahindra & Mahindra, Force Motors, Piaggio and Ashok Leyland.

Source: The Hindu Business Line

Wolverhampton Jaguar Land Rover plant approved

Three councils have been involved in a bid to attract JLR to the site

Plans to build a £350m Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) facility near Wolverhampton have been given the go-ahead by South Staffordshire Council.

JLR has said it was creating up to 750 jobs at a site on the Staffordshire-Wolverhampton border.

The luxury carmaker, owned by Indian firm Tata, is investing to build low-emission engines.

The council said it was thought work to prepare the site at the i54 business park near the M54 may start in January.



JLR has said it expected the facility to create up to 750 engineering and manufacturing posts, along with hundreds more jobs in the supply chain and the wider UK economy.

Factory saved

Councillors in South Staffordshire backed the proposals on Tuesday evening after plans were submitted in October.

South Staffordshire Council said the bid to attract JLR to the i54 site was jointly made by itself, Staffordshire County Council and Wolverhampton City Council.

It added Staffordshire County and Wolverhampton City councils would now embark on a project to construct a new slip road off the M54 at junction 2, which would serve the i54 site.

Both councils were investing about £20m into the scheme.

Last year JLR said it was reversing a decision to close one of its two West Midlands factories.

The group, based in Gaydon, Warwickshire, produces Land Rovers in two plants in Solihull in the West Midlands and in Halewood in Merseyside, while Jaguar models are produced at the Castle Bromwich plant in Birmingham.

Councillor Brian Cox, chairman of South Staffordshire Council's regulatory committee, said: "It is a very important project and one which will benefit the entire region for years to come."



Source: BBC UK

Range Rover Evoque Award Tally Passes Half Century; List of all awards included

53rd award received: Prizes from across the globe boost Range Rover Evoque’s honours collection
Coveted 4×4 title: 4×4 Magazine hands 4×4 of the Year title to Evoque

The Range Rover Evoque has added more awards to its portfolio, taking the total to 53 since its recent launch in September this year.

Recent honours bestowed on the Evoque came from Britain’s 4×4 Magazine, which proclaimed the Evoque its 4×4 of the Year, and this was swiftly followed by the Car of the Year title from the Czech Republic, and Best SUV from the Brazilian automotive news agency Auto Press, taking to 15 the number of different countries to recognise the smallest, lightest and most efficient Range Rover ever produced.

Evoque’s half-century tally includes notable titles such as Car of the Year in the UK AutoExpress New Car Honours, Scottish Car of the Year, US Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year, BBC Top Gear’s Car of the Year, Car and Driver Spain Car of the Year, the Design Trophy from l’Automobile in France and a host of honours from Chinese organisations and publications.

For Land Rover global brand director John Edwards, keeping up with the awards is proving a welcome headache: “The speed with which the honours are being collected by the Evoque is breathtaking, as is their global nature. It is a fantastic achievement for all connected with the Evoque project and a great endorsement for the product.

“In addition to these formal titles, the Evoque is daily emerging on top in motoring magazine group tests around the globe, and is winning thousands of admiring new owners. We have now received in excess of 40,000 orders for Evoque, and what is particularly heartening is that many of those have come from customers new to the brand.”

The most recent British honour comes from 4×4 Magazine, whose editor Nigel Fryatt said that there was universal agreement among the judges “that the new Evoque points the way to what future 4x4s will be like, and in some respects that alone makes it a worthy winner.” 4×4 Magazine also awarded Evoque top honours in its Premium Plus class.

1. China Best Car in Class Award, Motor Trend, China.
2. Best Production Design, Autodesign and styling magazine, Czech Republic
3. Best Car 2011 SUV category, Motorpress Portugal and Autohoje magazine, Portugal
4. Most Exciting Car for 2011, What Car? Car of the Year Awards, UK
5. Anticipated SUV of the Year, Top 4×4, China
6. The Most Anticipated Import Car of the Year, Sohu Auto, China
7. SHAS most popular imported car, Dragon TV, China
8. Best Car for Urban Young, Elites International Finance News, China
9. Most fashionable car at AUTO SHANGHAI, Beijing Times, China
10. Car Design of the Year award – best production car unveiled in 2010, Car Design News
11. Stunning Design Award, Orient Car, China
12. Auto Express New Car Honours Best Compact 4×4, UK
13. Auto Express New Car Honours Car of the Year 2011, UK
14. Best SUV, Women on Wheels Women’s Car of the Year Awards 2011, South Africa
15. The Most Anticipated Luxury Car, Chengdu Business Daily, China
16. Car of the Year Design and Performance, Car China
17. Golden Steering Wheel Award for Best SUV, AutoBild, Austria
18. Fashion Style Award, Sina Auto, China
19. Best Compact SUV, Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, UK
20. Scottish Car of the Year, Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, UK
21. Autonis Design Award – Best New Design, Auto Motor und Sport, Germany
22. Best SUV, Autorevue, Austria
23. SUV of the Year Award 2011, Motor Trend, US
24. Urban Truck of the Year, Decisive Magazine, US
25. Star of the Show, 41st Annual South Florida International Auto Show (Miami), US
26. 2012 Automobile Magazine All-Star Award handover at LA motor show, US
27. Continental Irish Executive/Luxury Car of the Year 2012, Irish Car of the Year Awards
28. Best Luxury Compact Utility Vehicle, ALG Residual Value Awards, US
29. Best Luxury Utility Award, Auto123.com, Canada
30. Indian Import SUV of the Year, CNBC TV and Overdrive Awards, India
31. Car of the Year, Stuff magazine, UK
32. Best SUV 2012, Car & Driver magazine, Brazil
33. SUV of the Year Award 2011, BBC Top Gear Magazine, UK
34. Car of the Year, BBC Top Gear Magazine, UK
35. Import SUV over 30,000 Euro, Autozeitung, Germany
36. Best SUV 2012, Car & Driver magazine, Spain
37. Car of the Year, Stuff magazine, India
38. Auto Style Award, Auto Style Award, US
39. Best Luxury SUV of the Year, National Business Daily, China
40. Best Import Car of the Year, Guangzhou Daily, China
41. Best Import SUV of the Year, Top Gear China
42. Best Import SUV of the Year, Sohu.com, China
43. Best Luxury SUV of the Year, China Business News, China
44. Most Fashionable Import SUV of the Year, Southern Metropolis News, China
45. Most Attractive SUV of 2011, Xinhua News, China
46. Design Trophy, l’Automobile Magazine, France
47. 4×4 Car of 2012, Auto Club Bulgaria
48. Crossover Car of the Year, Bloomberg, US
49. 2012 4×4 of the Year, 4×4 Magazine, UK
50. Car of the Year 2012, Czech Republic
51. Best SUV 2012, Auto Press, Brazil
52. Car of the Year, Independent Online, New Zealand
53. Readers’ Choice 2011 – Launch of the year, Carro Online, Brazil

Source: 3D Car Shows

Tata Motors launches Tata Divo Luxury Coach and Tata Starbus Ultra

Tata Motors today launched the Tata Divo, a luxurious long distance inter-city travel bus and the Tata Starbus Ultra, a modern and practical offering for commuting within the city.

Commenting on the launches, Mr. Ravi Pisharody, President - Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, said, "Tata Motors has always been at the forefront in revolutionizing passenger transportation in the commercial vehicle segment. With the introduction of the Tata Divo and the Tata Starbus Ultra the company will more comprehensively address the burgeoning need of public transportation. These two buses are sure to migrate the world of passenger transportation to a completely new level of class and technology coupled with comfort and convenience.

Tata Divo Luxury Coach - arrive energized

The brand new luxury AC Coach is meant for inter-city passenger transportation and tourist operations. The Tata Divo body design comes from Hispano Carrocera of Spain, a fully owned subsidiary of Tata Motors, providing a truly international standard ride to the long distance traveler.

The sleek body and the luxurious interiors are a treat to the eye. Tata Divo offers customised interior features such as different seating layouts in semi-sleeper and seater configurations, wide seats with upto 135 degree recline with head flaps and armrests, generous saloon space with high roof, hat-racks with personalised controls for AC and reading lights, large luggage space, making it the ultimate luxurious coach. In addition, an entertainment system with DVD player and 2 LCD screens, on board refrigerator, mobile charging points, destination board, public address system, enhance the travel experience.

The BS III compliant, Tata Divo's drive-train is engineered by 285 HP powerful Cummins engine, a break-through in terms of technology and reliability. Mated with a 6-speed overdrive gearbox for higher fuel efficiency, larger 430 mm diameter clutch for enhanced life, exceptional braking performance with a hydrodynamic retarder, and a superior independent front axle for better maneuverability. All this translates into superior performance.

Driver comfort has been taken to the next level as the bus has a pneumatically suspended seat for more comfort, electronic accelerator pedal and precision gear shifting for minimizing driver fatigue, and a new aesthetic dashboard and instrument cluster with on-board diagnostics.

Tata Divo not only stands for world class design, assured reliability and superior performance, but also spells high on safety. The hydrodynamic retarder ensures better safety and the exceptional aerodynamic drag coefficient increases vehicle stability.

Customers can personalise the Tata Divo by choosing a preferred colour scheme and styling options. The range will be available across all dealerships from January 2012 onwards.

The Tata Divo (BS III version) price range starts from Rs.66 lakhs, ex-showroom New Delhi.



Tata Starbus Ultra - Go beyond your world

Tata Starbus Ultra opens up a whole new world of comfort and luxury for office-goers, hotel guests, tourists and school children. Meant primarily for intra-city transport, the luxury variant can also be used for inter-city travel.

The Tata Starbus Ultra is available in Luxury, Standard, School and Deluxe variants. These are available in different seating configurations (22 - 46 seater), on different wheelbases, thereby providing the customer with a whole range to select from.

The Tata Starbus Ultra has an outstanding aerodynamic body design and aggregates which conform to the Bus Body Code. The Tata Starbus Ultra is the first bus in its category with the front door ahead of the front axle, resulting in more seats for the same length of bus and subsequently better returns for the operator. The advanced parabolic suspension, wider aisle width and super comfortable seating ensure that commuters have smooth and peaceful ride.

The Tata Starbus Ultra is designed using the reliable Tata 497 engine along with a viscous fan (used for the first time in this class of buses), resulting in higher fuel efficiency and lowest NVH levels in its category. The 6-speed gearbox with overdrive and cable shift mechanism ensures higher mileage, more speed selection options and a higher maximum speed, while also providing 30% more life. The high strength chassis and stronger rear axle enhance the life of the vehicle, while the wider tubeless radial tyres give a longer running life. The service interval has also been doubled for more on road availability and to significantly reduce maintenance costs for the operators.

The wider track axle and lowest in class turning circle diameter help in vehicle stability and maneuverability for the driver. Tiltable and telescopic steering with a high capacity power steering pump, dashboard mounted gear lever with car-like gear shifting leaves reduces driver fatigue.

The luxury variant comes with engine-driven individual AC vents, for each passenger. The modular hat-rack is integrated with AC vents and reading lamps. Push-back seats with upto 135 degree recline with arm-rests and footrests make the travel heavenly. The Deluxe variant has hi-back reclining seats for extra comfort. Rear and side luggage booths give ample space for storage. LCD screen fitment and CD / DVD player provision on request completes the delightful experience. The School variant is equipped with 25 safety features along with all the comfort features for children.

Thus, the Tata Starbus Ultra stands for comfort, space, style and performance with superior economics. The range is available across all Tata Motors Authorised dealerships.

The Tata Starbus Ultra (BS III version) price range starts from Rs.15 lakhs, ex-showroom New Delhi.

Source: Tata Motors

New Land Rover showroom opened by The Co-Op Motor Group in Leeds

The Co-Op Motor Group has opened a £1m new showroom for Land Rover and Range Rover in Leeds.

The group claims the Farnell Leeds dealership on Whitehouse Street, its third for the 4x4 brand, has the largest Land Rover indoor showroom in the UK.

The development has created eight new jobs and has indoor space for more than 25 new cars, plus a separate indoor showroom for approved used vehicles.

It includes a customer lounge with TV, wi-fi, refreshment facilities and a children's play area with Sony PS3.



The showroom is amongst the first to deliver the Range Rover Ultimate, the most luxurious off-roader yet from the car manufacturer, boasting extras such as i-Pads integrated into special holders behind the front seats and a drinks cabinet, all set into a bespoke wood and leather interior.

Jatinder Aujla, group operations manager, said: "Farnell was one of the world’s first ever Land Rover dealers and now we have this magnificent facility to add to our sites in Guiseley and Bradford.

"2011 has been very successful for Farnell and next year we aim to deliver more than 1,200 vehicles from this site, making it one of the most successful Range Rover/Land Rover dealerships in the UK.

"We are already one of the top three UK Land Rover dealerships for aftersales care, but our intention is to continue improving until Farnell Leeds is recognised as providing the best all-round customer service in the UK."

The dealership was officially opened by Land Rover's global brand director John Edwards at the end of November.

Source: AM Online

Jaguar Land Rover to Skip Detroit Auto Show for New Delhi Auto Expo

Tata Motors announced that its Jaguar and Land Rover luxury brands will not attend the next month’s Detroit auto show as the venue clashes with India’s Auto Expo show.

It will be the first time the two British brands will skip the largest auto show in the U.S., which will take place between January 9 and 22. Tata Motors, which bought Jaguar and Land Rover in 2008 from Ford, said its brands will miss Detroit because it conflicts with the New Delhi exhibition (January 7-11).

A Jaguar Land Rover spokesman stressed that India is a fast-growing market. He added that the two brands have showcased their latest concepts, the Jaguar C-X16 and Land Rover DC100, at the recent Frankfurt and Los Angeles shows. Asked what will happen if the Range Rover Evoque SUV wins the 2012 North American truck of the year award, for which it is nominated, the spokesman said JLR’s U.S. executives will be present at the Detroit show just in case the car wins the trophy.

The United States is the second biggest market for Jaguar and Land Rover after the United Kingdom. China is the third market for the two brands, but JLR officials expect it to become the most important market in the following years.

Source: INAUTONEWS

Test Drive: 2012 Range Rover Evoque Pure

2012 Range Rover Evoque Pure

2012 Range Rover Evoque Pure's Cabin

The cabin is elegant and well crafted, using the classic Range Rover wide centre console that rises over the contrasting horizontal elements of the dash. The controls are large, logical and glove friendly, and the eight-inch touch screen is clear and intuitive – obviously an evolution of the aging system seen in all the other LR and Jaguar products. Time for the rest to play catch up, as this one is much better.

The Jaguar/Land Rover signature rotary shift knob that rises from the console on start up is as functional as it is unique. Also on the console are buttons for the Terrain Response. The four settings – General/ Grass Gravel Snow/ Mud and Ruts/ Sand – optimize the AWD, throttle response, stability control and traction control for the selected conditions. Hill start assist and descent control are also included.

The front seats with their suede-like inserts are excellent – grippy and supportive yet comfortable for the long haul.

On the road the Evoque has a taut, athletic feel. Throttle response is quick (although jumpy at times) and this pressurized 2.0-litre four banger feels a lot stronger to me than its quoted output. Put your foot in it and the Evoque really charges. The six-speed auto works well although response to the paddles is not particularly prompt. The brakes feel strong and the hydraulic steering is alert and direct.

Unlike the LR2, the Evoque shows a real appetite for the corners, but you pay the price in ride quality. It’s not harsh, just firm, which might become an issue if Yolanda Yoga spends the majority of her time on crappy urban (Toronto) streets, ferrying the kids, scurrying to pilates and double-parking in front of Hazelton Lanes.

On the highway, the Evoque tracks beautifully and the cabin noise is well suppressed; all the better for grooving on that sound system.

Transport Canada cites 11.4 L/100 km city and 7.1 L/100 km highway, with 9.5 L/100 km combined. In comparison, the BMW X3 (base $46,000) with its creamy 300-hp turbo six and eight-speed auto returns 11.1 / 7.7 / 9.6 L/100 km – pretty much a wash.

Perhaps the Evoque’s closest competitor is the new BMW X1, another compact premium AWD crossover motivated by a 2.0-litre turbo four. On paper they are remarkably similar, with nearly identical power outputs and luggage capacity, although the X1 is lighter, quicker, more frugal at 10.2 L/100 km city and 6.5 L/100 km highway, and at it bows at $38,500.



The biggest difference lies in the fact that the X1 is a tall car, whereas the Evoque is a bona fide boonie-basher that will tow your jet ski and wade in water up to 500 cm in depth. And there’s certainly no contest in the looks department.

This dramatic newcomer is the first all-new vehicle from Range Rover since Tata purchased Jaguar/LR in 2008. Having just been named Motor Trend Sport Utility Vehicle of the Year, it’s appears the Evoque is off to a good start.

Pricing: 2012 Range Rover Evoque Pure

Base price: $46,995

Options: $2,700 (City Package (powered tailgate, chrome entry and tailgate strips, 19-inch sparkle finish alloys, Sirius satellite radio, park assist, rear view camera with hitch assist))

A/C tax: $100

Freight: $1,270

Price as tested: $51,065

Source: Autos CA

Tata Nano may enter Indonesia via contract manufacturing route

Move will help Tata Motors share risks, expedite project; earlier plan was to set up a greenfield unit.

Tata Motors Ltd, India’s largest automobile company by revenue, may enter the Indonesian market by striking a contract manufacturing deal with a local company, according to four people familiar with the company’s plans who did not want to be identified.

This is similar to the model adopted by the company in Thailand, where it formed an alliance with Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Co. Ltd, an independent assembler of automobiles.

Tata Motors earlier had plans to set up a greenfield unit in Indonesia to make the Nano small car and Ace mini truck.

A spokesperson for Tata Motors said the company is in the process of crystalizing its plans for Indonesia and that “the products to be included or the manufacturing route to be adopted is being discussed”.

Two of the people familiar with the matter said theapproach was a low-risk one that would entail a lower investment and also help the company quickly launch its products.

After the tepid response in the home market to the car (Nano), the company doesn’t intend to invest too much,” said one.

The contract manufacturing route, another said, would not only help the firm share risk in terms of investment but also expedite the project. A third person familiar with the matter said Tata Motors is currently in talks with a few companies in Indonesia.

The move makes sense, said an expert.

“Given the current global environment, when manufacturers have redundant capacities, it makes sense for Indian auto makers like Tata Motors and Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd, which are looking at getting a foothold in the region, to opt for this route as opposed to a greenfield unit,“ said Vikas Sehgal, managing director and global head of the automotive practice at financial advisory firm Rothschild.

LMC Automotive Ltd, an automotive sales and forecasting firm, estimates the Indonesian market for light vehicles (those below 6 tonnes) to expand 16% to 792,000 units by the end of the current calendar year, over the previous year. This is expected to further go up to 1.148 million units in 2014, by which time the country will overtake Thailand to become the biggest light-vehicles market in South-East Asia.



LMC projects Thailand’s sales volumes to reach 1.145 million units that year. It expects the sales gap between the two markets to continue to widen owing to higher growth potential in Indonesia. By 2018, 1.59 million light vehicles will be sold in Indonesia against Thailand’s 1.36 million.

The fourth person familiar with the matter said production at the chosen contract manufacturer will likely commence in the second quarter of fiscal 2012-13 and that in the first year, the plan is to produce 100,000 units of Ace and Nano.

Tata’s move in Indonesia comes at a time when the country’s government is in the process of finalizing a policy to incentivize companies to build small, fuel-efficient cars.

This is along the lines of Thailand’s Eco car project that has attracted companies such as Toyota Motor Corp., Honda Motor Co. Ltd and Suzuki Motor Corp.

For Tata Motors, which opted out of the Eco car project, there’s an opportunity in Indonesia to participate in the project with its Nano model, said Puneet Gupta, an analyst at IHS Automotive, a forecasting firm.

Source: Live Mint

What Car? Car of the Year Awards Nominees include Jaguar, Land Rover vehicles

Brace yourself. What Car? has revealed the vehicles in contention for its Car of the Year Awards.

Brace yourself. What Car? has revealed the vehicles in contention for its Car of the Year Awards. This is guaranteed to make motorists take note - but be careful. Raising this subject with friends tends to result in dangerous debate, crazy controversy, and mildly offensive language. This year there are thirteen categories to fight over, including 'city car', 'estate', and 'MPV'. The What Car? judges also face the tantalising task of choosing an overall winner before their ceremony in January. Before then they must drive hundreds of miles, evaluate 'witchcraft' inspired systems - then settle their debates with pistols at dawn.

What Car? Editor-in-Chief, Chas Hallett, commented: “The decision-making process this year is going to be harder than ever, because the automotive industry keeps building better, more economical and more desirable cars that offer consumers great value for money. The objective of the annual What Car? Awards is to let our readers know the best car in every class. The final decision is far from settled and many more miles of driving and hours of controversial discussions will take place between now and January 11.”

The What Car? Car of the Year contenders are:

• City Car: Fiat 500, Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, Seat Mii, Skoda Citigo, Volkswagen Up. 
• Coupé: Audi A5, Audi TT, BMW 3 Series Coupé, BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XK, Mini Coupé, Volkswagen Scirocco. 
• Supermini: Audi A1, Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i20, Kia Rio, Renault Clio, Volkswagen Polo.
• Open Top: Audi A3 Cabriolet, Audi TT Roadster, Bentley Continental GTC, BMW 6 Series Convertible, BMW Z4, Mazda MX-5, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet. 
• Small Family Car: BMW 1 Series, Chevrolet Volt, Ford Focus, Hyundai i30, Nissan Leaf, Skoda Octavia, Vauxhall Ampera, Vauxhall Astra GTC, Volkswagen Golf. 
• Performance Car: Audi R8 Spyder, BMW M5, Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Aventador, Lotus Evora, McLaren MP4-12C, Porsche 911, Porsche Cayman R. 
• Family Car: Ford Mondeo, Mazda 6, Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Peugeot 508, Skoda Superb, Volkswagen Passat. 
• SUV: Audi Q3, BMW X3, Hyundai Santa Fe, Land Rover Discovery, Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008, Range Rover Evoque. 
• Estate: Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, Ford Focus Estate, Ford Mondeo Estate, Hyundai i40 Tourer, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, Skoda Octavia Estate, Volkswagen Passat Estate. 
• Executive Car: Audi A6, Audi A7 Sportback, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, Citroën DS5, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Porsche Panamera. 
• MPV: Citroën C3 Picasso, Ford Galaxy, Ford S-Max, Peugeot 5008, Renault Grand Scénic, Seat Alhambra, Volkswagen Sharan. 
• Luxury Car: Audi A8, Bentley Mulsanne, Jaguar XJ, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Range Rover, Rolls-Royce Phantom. 
• Hot Hatch: Mini Cooper S, Renault Clio Renaultsport Cup, Renault Mégane Renault sport Cup, Renault Twingo Renaultsport Cup, Suzuki Swift Sport, Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Source: What Car?

Tata Motors Novemeber 2011 global sales up 35 pct YoY

Global sales of all passenger vehicles were at 58,304 nos. in November 2011, higher by 47%.

The Tata Motors Group global wholesales, including Jaguar Land Rover, were 108,028 nos., in November 2011, higher by 35% over November 2010. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 750,457 higher by 10% compared to the corresponding period in 2010-11.

Global sales of all commercial vehicles – Tata, Tata Daewoo and the Tata Hispano Carrocera range -- were 49,724 nos. in November 2011, a growth of 24%. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 371,410 nos., a growth of 18%.

Global sales of all passenger vehicles were at 58,304 nos. in November 2011, higher by 47%. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are 379,047 nos., higher by 4%. Global sales of Tata passenger vehicles and the distribution offtake in India of Fiat cars were at 29,121 nos., for the month, higher by 74% over November 2010. Cumulative sales for the fiscal are at 193,616 nos., lower by 8%.

Global sales of Jaguar Land Rover in November 2011 were at 29,183 vehicles, higher by 27% over November 2010. Jaguar sales for the month were 5,315 nos., lower by 5%, while Land Rover sales were 23,868 nos., higher by 38%. Cumulative sales of Jaguar Land Rover for the fiscal are 185,431 nos., higher by 19%. Cumulative sales of Jaguar are 35,195 nos., lower by 9%, while cumulative sales of Land Rover are 150,236 nos., higher by 28%.

Source: India Infoline

Startech Enhances Jaguar XJ

Startech enhanced Jaguar XJ

Startech offers a sport and accessories program for the Jaguar XJ model series. The product lineup includes an aerodynamic-enhancement kit, custom-tailored 21 inch forged wheels and custom refinement options for the interior.

The nose of the four-door car receives some added profile with the front attachment that is mounted to the production bumper. LED daytime running lights integrated into the side air inlets are added as well. At the sides the English luxury sedan received new front fenders with integrated air outlets. Design elements for the side sills attach in front of the rear wheel arches and complement the fender elements.

The rear has a new fascia with an integrated diffuser and two integrated ‘design’ panels. They are combined with two stainless-steel rear mufflers. A subtle rear spoiler lip on the trunk lid complements the kit.

The Startech XJ rides on Monostar J Diamond Edition wheels. The three-piece forged wheels are mounted in sizes 9.0Jx21 and 10.5Jx21. They feature mirror-polished surfaces and titanium-look sections. Wider high-performance tires in sizes 255/35 ZR 21 in front and 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle are fitted to the rims.

The show car features a black exterior and a contrasting cream-colored all-leather interior made from soft and breathable Mastik leather. Two heated power business seats offer maximum comfort in the rear. A new center console with integrated storage compartments is trimmed with the same leather used in the entire interior and features lights on either side that illuminate the floor in front of the rear seats.

The electronics specialists have developed a multimedia system centered on an Apple iPad. Electrically deployed tables feature custom-tailored recesses for the tablet computer and the Bluetooth keyboard from Apple. A 20 MBit/s GSM modem with an antenna that has been integrated into the vehicle hidden from sight provides a high-speed internet connection via EDGE, HSDPA or HSPA+ protocols. Several passengers can communicate online at any time using a WLAN network available in and around the car.


Source: GTSpirit & AutoEvolution

Tata Motors to launch "Tata Novus" and "Tata Starbus CNG" in Thailand

Tata Motors (Thailand) Co Ltd is driving its business growth in Thailand's large commercial vehicle segment with the introduction of the "TATA Novus" tractor trailer and "TATA Starbus CNG" bus.

The "TATA Novus" tractor trailer and "TATA Starbus CNG" bus will have their official product launchings in Thailand at the Bus & Truck 2011 event held at the Bitec center, Bangna during December 15-17, 2011.

"Tata may be a new brand for the Thai people but we are the world's 4th largest manufacturer of trucks and pickups, while we also rank as the world's 3rd largest bus manufacturer," said Abhichet Sitakalin, vice president for Sales, Marketing and Customer Care for Tata Motors (Thailand).

"The TATA Novus will definitely fit in as a good option with excellent quality and value for money for business owners and logistics operators in Thailand. The 'TATA Novus' is expected to set new standard in the logistics market in Thailand as the vehicle is designed to European standard".

The 1st generation TATA Novus was launched in 2004 through the joint development between Tata Motors and South Korea-based Tata Daewoo Commercial Vehicles, shortly after Tata Motors acquired Daewoo's commercial vehicle unit. The "TATA Novus" enjoyed positive market gains in South Korea, and in 15 other export destinations. The Novus design delivers class-leading performance, comfort amenities, ergonomic design and functionality for the driver and enhancing safety and control of the vehicle.



"Tata Motors is committed to develop Thailand's large commercial vehicle market and provide excellent customer service" said Abhichet.

He added that Tata Motors, which entered the Thai market in 2008, is setting up dealership and service network in Bangkok, Saraburi and Rayong based on availability of CNG infrastructure. Plans are in place to provide efficient after-sales service coverage across the country.

Source: The Nation Multimedia

Chery and Jaguar Land Rover to jointly unveil new platform in 2016

Chery and Jaguar Land Rover's proposed joint venture is set to see results as soon as 2016, when the joint venture is scheduled to unveil its new automobile platform, Economic Observer News reported today.

Although the proposed cooperation between Chery and Alfa Romeo three years ago did not come to fruition, the Chinese manufacturer is not deterred in its quest to find a European partner. News of the upcoming automobile platform implies that the Chery-Jaguar Land Rover joint venture is going smoothly.

There have been several reports that the JV would create a brand new business model, with all intellectual rights to the model belonging to the Chery name. FAW, SAIC, Dongfeng and GAC have all attempted similar business models in the past, with varying degrees of success. This is something which both parties have refused to comment on.

"Chery specifically needs experience with making luxury vehicles," an analyst (who wished to remain unnamed) who spent several years following the manufacturer's progress said. He added that without anything new to show, the venture will have a hard time gaining the National Development and Reform Commission's approval.

Source: Gasgoo - Global Auto Sources

Scoop: Tata Aria Left Hand Driver sans AT

Tata Motors’ flagship product, the Tata Aria Crossover is headed for markets abroad and here’s definitive proof as our roving eye in the sky, EarthFusion swooped down on an on-test Tata Aria LHD. The left hand drive version of the Aria however did not feature an automatic gearbox. So the same five speed manual gearbox might be what the export version of the Aria could feature although we do know for a fact that Tata is working on an automatic transmission for the Aria.

The Aria LHD’s interiors as well as the exteriors did not show any visible changes from the current Aria. Also, we expect the same 140 Bhp-320 Nm 2.2 Liter DICOR turbodiesel engine equipped with a dual mass flywheel to do duty in the Aria. The Tata Aria has been a sales dud in the domestic market and could do well if Tata repositions the Crossover with a price drop. Perhaps, the move to sell the Aria in developed markets will bring in the desired volumes for Tata Motors.

Talking about the export markets, both the Tata Safari SUV and the Tata Xenon pick up are decent sellers for Tata in export markets around the world and the Aria could follow in these vehicles’ tyre marks. The Tata Aria is now available with a discount of close to INR 2 Lakhs, which makes it a superb proposition for folks wanting a roomy and capable crossover which is extremely comfortable too.

This discounted price of the Aria, currently being called a December offer might extend into the next few months as the Aria is simply not selling at the original price it was positioned at. Al said, the Aria does have a lot of positives going for it like the  interiors, which is the best ever on a Tata car. The Aria feels better put together than other Tata cars and also comes with a range of features that are offered only in cars twice its price.

Source: ICB

Tata Ace DICOR Diesel Scooped; Same Engine to be used in Tata Nano Diesel!

Tata Ace DICOR Diesel

Nearly a year ago, we learnt that the Tata Nano Diesel could deliver a phenomenal 40 Kmpl. Naysayers had no option but to believe the unbelievable when a Bosch official involved in development of the fuel injection system for the Nano Diesel came along and made the following statement,

We have worked with Tata Motors for Nano’s petrol version and we are working with it for the diesel version too. The car has a two-cylinder, 700cc engine which develops healthy power without compromising on fuel economy. Although official test figures have not been revealed, we expect it to run 40 km on one litre of diesel.

Today, we have with us yet another scoop, this time of the Tata Ace DICOR diesel, but a scoop that could have more than a bearing on the upcoming Nano Diesel. ICB, has swooped another biggie hereby snapping up on-test Tata Ace DICOR diesel mini pick up trucks even as the drivers of these test vehicle stopped for a chai(tea) break.

While the DICOR (tata speak for common rail direct injection) turbo diesel engine for the Tata Ace was always in the pipeline, we have reliably learnt that a very similar engine will be what will power the upcoming Tata Nano diesel, the variant that could quite literally put the bang back in the Nano’s sales, doing what the V2 did to the Indica many summers ago. And this is why this scoop has more to it than just a new engine job on India’s largest selling mini pick up truck.

Tata Ace DICOR Diesel Mini Pick up Truck

From details ICB has managed to gather on the DICOR engine, the twin cylinder engine has been chopped off the 475 engine range, which in other words is the 1,405cc Indica engine. This has been done to keep development costs to the bare minimum while also ensuring that the spare parts remain common to that of the Indica’s engine for easy serviceability. The common rail direct injection system has been developed by Bosch. So, this engine on the Nano Diesel is something India will be keenly looking forward to.

Coming back to the Tata Ace DICOR, the mini pick up truck will use a 700cc twin cylinder engine whose power and torque output will be much lesser than the Nano diesel. The same goes for NVH levels too, which are expected to be higher than on the Nano due to the Ace being an out and out commercial vehicle. However, fuel economy could get a huge boost and with that, the Tata Ace DICOR might knock the wind off a certain Mahindra Maxximo mini pick up’s sales, which already is in the doldrums.

Source: ICB