AUTOBITES

BMW has revealed the pricing details of its upcoming 2013 version of Gran Coupe 640i

Raju — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 15:45:26 +0000

The German auto giant BMW has revealed the pricing details of its upcoming 2013 version of Gran Coupe 640i. The new BMW Gran Coupe 640i will be rolled-out in three variants in the US market including Twin – Power Turbo 6 cylinder, Twin Power Turbo V8 and xDrive. The company is planning to roll-out these three variants of new coupe in phased manner during the current year.

The new 6 series 640i Gran Coupe will be carrying a starting price tag of $76,895. Powered by a N55HP direct injected Valvetronic inline engine, the coupe is capable of delivering a peak power of 315 bhp power at 5800 – 6000 rpm along with a massive torque of 330 lb/ft at 1300 – 4500 rpm. The powerful engine of the car will come incorporated with a twin scroll turbo technology, further enhancing the performance of the car.

The power packed 2013 BMW Gran Coupe 640i model only takes 5.4 seconds to break the speed barrier of 62 mph with a top speed of 155 mph.

The company will launch this car at the Geneva International Auto Show in March 2012, followed by its unveiling at the New York International Auto Show in April 2012.

Daimler excels in anniversary year 2011: Group EBIT from ongoing business up by 24% to record level of €9 billion

Raju — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:38:20 +0000

Date:
February 10, 2012

Net profit reaches best-ever level of €6.0 billion
(2010: €4.7 billion)
Group revenue also sets record of €106.5 billion
(2010: €97.8 billion)
Mercedes-Benz Cars achieves new peaks for unit sales, revenue and EBIT
Daimler Trucks significantly improves its unit sales, revenue and earnings
Higher dividend proposed of €2.20 per share
(prior year: €1.85)
Outlook 2012: target of Group EBIT from ongoing business in the magnitude of the prior year

Stuttgart – Daimler AG (stock-exchange symbol DAI) today presented its preliminary and unaudited earnings figures for the Group and the divisions in the year 2011.

Daimler increased its Group EBIT from the ongoing business by 24% to €8,977 million in 2011 (2010: €7,212 million). Including special factors, Group EBIT rose by 20% to €8,755 million (2010: €7,274 million). Both EBIT figures are new records.

Net profit also reached a record figure of €6,029 million
(2010: €4,674 million) and earnings per share amounted to €5.32 (2010: €4.28).

Overall, Daimler was able to set several records simultaneously in the anniversary year, “125! years inventor of the automobile.”
“The Group achieved its best-ever results in 2011 for unit sales, revenue, EBIT and net profit. All of our divisions contributed to this success,” stated Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. Above all, Mercedes-Benz Cars also set new records for sales, revenue and EBIT. In its long corporate history, the car division has never performed better than in 2011.

“In total, we made the anniversary year also into a year of success for Daimler. This performance shows that with its strong portfolio of cars, trucks, vans, buses and financial services, the Group is strategically very well positioned. We are now putting all of our efforts into continuing this success and achieving our targeted rates of return on a sustained basis as of the year 2013,” emphasized Zetsche.

Financial year 2011

The excellent earnings for the year 2011 primarily reflect the very good situation of unit sales in the divisions. In 2011, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Vans significantly increased their unit sales compared with the prior year in the major regions. Daimler Financial Services profited in particular from the lower cost of risk.

Special factors connected with the natural disaster in Japan resulted in total charges for the Group of €80 million. Insurance compensation has been taken into consideration in calculating this figure. Charges were also recognized from the impairment of Daimler’s equity interests in Renault (€110 million) and Kamaz
(€32 million).

The special items affecting earnings in the years 2011 and 2010 are listed in the table on page 13 and in the individual divisions.

Daimler sold a total of 2.1 million vehicles in 2011, surpassing the prior-year figure by 11%. All of the automotive divisions contributed to the increase. Group revenue increased by 9% to €106.5 billion; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was an increase of 10%.

The net liquidity of the industrial business amounted to
€12.0 billion at December 31, 2011 (2010: €11.9 billion).

The generally positive business development led to an increase in the number of persons employed worldwide to 271,370 as of December 31. This was 11,270 more than at the end of 2010. In Germany, the number of employees increased to 167,684
(2010: 164,026).

Due to Daimler’s success in 2011, the Board of Management and the General Works Council have agreed that the workforce’s performance will again be rewarded with a high performance participation bonus: In Germany, each eligible employee of Daimler AG will receive an amount of €4,100 (2011: €3,150) at the end of April 2012.

The shareholders will also participate appropriately once again in the Group’s financial success. In setting the dividend, Daimler aims to distribute approximately 40% of the net profit attributable to Daimler shareholders. In view of the good business development, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will therefore propose to the shareholders for their approval at the Annual Meeting to be held on April 4, 2012 that a dividend of €2.20 per share be paid out (2010: €1.85). This represents a total dividend of €2,346 million (2010: €1,971 million).

“In this way, we want our shareholders to participate appropriately once again in our financial success, and we anticipate a continuation of this dividend development in the coming years,” stated Bodo Uebber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Finance & Controlling and Financial Services.

Investments for the future

On the basis of the “Road to Emission-free Mobility” initiative, one focus will be on new, extremely fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly drive technologies in all the Group’s automotive divisions. The objectives are to optimize conventional drive technologies, to enhance their efficiency through hybridization, and to develop electric vehicles with fuel-cell drive and battery power. Another focus is on new safety technologies with the goal of avoiding accidents as far as possible and of alleviating the consequences of any accidents that might still occur.

In this context, Daimler therefore increased its research and development expenditure to €5.6 billion in 2011 (2010: €4.8 billion). R&D spending amounted to €3.7 billion at Mercedes-Benz Cars (2010: €3.1 billion) and €1.3 billion at Daimler Trucks
(2010: €1.3 billion).

Investment in property, plant and equipment amounted to
€4.2 billion (2010: €3.7 billion), of which €2.7 billion was invested in Germany (2010: €2.1 billion). The focus was on substantial capital expenditure on local production facilities, new products and new technologies. One of the main areas at Mercedes-Benz Cars was the expansion of production capacities for the successor to the A-/B-Class at the Rastatt plant in Germany and at the new plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. Daimler Trucks made substantial investments in 2011 in the launch of the new Actros heavy truck.

The divisions in detail

Mercedes-Benz Cars, comprising the brands Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart, set a new record in 2011 with sales of 1,381,400 vehicles (2010: 1,276,800). The division’s revenue rose by 7% to a record of €57.4 billion (2010: €53.4 billion).

The division posted EBIT of €5,192 million, a significant improvement compared with the prior-year result (2010: €4,656 million). Its return on sales was 9.0% (2010: 8.7%).

The increase in earnings resulted primarily from the worldwide growth in unit sales, especially in the mid-sized and SUV segments. Above all in China and the United States, the division was able to boost its unit sales due to its attractive product range. Improved pricing for new vehicles and lower warranty expenses also made positive contributions to earnings. There were negative effects on earnings from increases in prices of materials and higher expenses related to the launch of new models, increased research and development costs and negative exchange-rate effects.

Daimler Trucks increased its worldwide unit sales by 20% to 425,800 vehicles and revenue also rose by 20% to €28.8 billion (2010: €24.0 billion).

The division’s EBIT of €1,876 million was also significantly higher than in the prior year (2010: €1,332 million). Return on sales amounted to 6.5% (2010: 5.5%). The positive earnings development is mainly based on strong growth in unit sales with contributions from all the major regions (the NAFTA region, Europe, Asia and
Latin America). The successfully implemented optimization and repositioning of the business operations of the subsidiaries Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Daimler Trucks North America had sustained positive effects also in 2011, contributing to significant efficiency improvements and thus also to higher earnings. Negative effects on earnings resulted from higher material costs and the advance expenditure for the new Actros.
In connection with the natural disaster in Japan, charges of €70 million were recognized. Without these charges and the impairment of the investment in Kamaz, Daimler Trucks would have achieved a return on sales of 6.9%.

Mercedes-Benz Vans increased its unit sales by 18% to 264,200 vans of the Sprinter, Vario, Vito and Viano model series. Revenue of €9.2 billion was also significantly higher than in the prior year
(2010: €7.8 billion).

The division posted a significant improvement in earnings. EBIT increased to €835 million (2010: €451 million) and return on sales improved from 5.8% in 2010 to 9.1% last year. The positive development of earnings resulted from significantly higher unit sales, above all in Germany, the NAFTA region and Eastern Europe. One of the main factors was the excellent market response to the new-generation Vito and Viano models. Higher material costs were more than offset by sustained efficiency improvements and better pricing.

Daimler Buses once again increased its sales of buses and bus chassis, despite difficult conditions for complete buses, to a total of 39,700 units (2010: 39,100). Revenue of €4.4 billion was slightly lower than in the prior year (2010: €4.6 billion).

With EBIT of €162 million, the division did not match the high level of earnings it achieved in the prior year (2010: €215 million). Its return on sales was 3.7% (2010: 4.7%). This earnings development is due to lower unit sales of complete buses in Western Europe and North America, especially in the city-bus segment, in which demand decreased. Higher prices due to the influence of inflation in Latin America also had a negative impact on EBIT. The division’s earnings were positively affected by higher shipments of bus chassis in Latin America (including Mexico) and by exchange-rate effects.

Daimler Financial Services developed very positively in all regions. Worldwide contract volume grew by 13% to the record level of
€71.7 billion (2010: €63.7 billion). Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, contract volume grew by 12%. New business increased by 15% to €33.5 billion due to the higher volumes of unit sales by the automotive divisions.

The division significantly surpassed its earnings of the prior year with EBIT of €1,312 million in 2011 (2010: €831 million). Its return on equity was 25.5% (2010: 16.1%). The improvement in earnings was mainly caused by lower provisions for risks, improved refinancing conditions and an increased contract volume. On the other hand, earnings were negatively affected by expenditure related to the realignment of business activities in Germany. Another factor was that additional allowances for bad debts had to be recognized in connection with the natural disaster in Japan.

The reconciliation of the divisions’ EBIT to Group EBIT comprises Daimler’s proportionate share of the results of its equity-method investment in EADS, other gains and/or losses at the corporate level, and the effects on earnings of eliminating intra-group transactions between the divisions.

Daimler’s proportionate share of the net profit of EADS amounted to income of €143 million (2010: expense of €261 million). In addition, an expense at corporate level of €588 million has been taken into consideration (2010: income of €21 million). In 2011, this was primarily related to litigation and the impairment of Daimler’s equity holding in Renault (€110 million). Due to the sharp drop in the stock-exchange price of Renault shares at the end of the third quarter, the shareholding had to be impaired to its fair value.

Outlook

According to current estimates, worldwide markets for motor vehicles should continue to grow this year, with the exception of the Western European markets, which are increasingly affected by the debt crisis. Global registrations of new cars are likely to increase by approximately 4%, whereby the growth will primarily be driven by the Asian emerging markets, the US market and the Japanese market, which will benefit from catch-up effects.

Worldwide demand for medium and heavy trucks in 2012 is expected to be at least at the level of last year. Despite a perceptible growth slowdown, the North American market should prove to be the world’s most important driver of demand, expanding by 15 to 20%. Demand for trucks in Europe will be impacted by the ongoing sovereign-debt crisis and the resulting economic weakness. So at best, demand in that market can only be expected to be about as strong as last year. The Japanese market for heavy and medium-duty trucks should expand once again by 5 to 10% compared with the prior year, thanks to the country’s economic growth, which is benefiting from the reconstruction efforts. Overall demand for trucks in the emerging markets should grow only moderately this year.

Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes that it will be able to further increase its unit sales this year and will grow faster than the total market. Its competitive model range will facilitate growth in traditional markets also under less favorable conditions. The division will also profit from the continuation of very strong demand for its models in the C-Class segment. In the luxury segment, the new generation of the SL will boost unit sales as of late March. With sport-utility vehicles, further growth is anticipated primarily due to the full availability of the new M-Class and as of September 2012 from the new GL. Furthermore, both the new GLK (a compact SUV) and the new-generation G-Class will be launched in June. The new models in the high-volume compact-car segment will also boost growth in unit sales. The new B-Class was already launched in November 2011 and the new A-Class will follow in September 2012.

On the engine side, the new and particularly efficient four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines and the ECO start-stop technology will be introduced in additional models. This will boost unit sales above all with commercial customers. With the help of the new engines and the particularly economical BlueEFFICIENCY models, Daimler was able to reduce the average CO2 emissions of the cars sold in the European Union to 150 grams per kilometer in 2011 (2010:
158 g/km).

Within the framework of the “Mercedes-Benz 2020” growth strategy, the product range will be significantly expanded across all segments in the coming years. In the compact-car segment alone, there will be five models with the three-pointed star in the future, which will increasingly appeal to younger customers as well. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Cars will expand the top end of its model range –
for example with three additional versions of the next S-Class and another SUV version, as well as with models such as the CLS Shooting Break, which will be launched in September 2012 as a completely new vehicle concept. Positive impetus is expected for smart this year from two highlights: The new smart fortwo electric drive will gradually be launched in more than 30 markets around the world, and the smart ebike will also be introduced.

In regional terms, Mercedes-Benz Cars sees further growth opportunities in 2012 above all in North America, as well as in China, India and Russia. Prospects in Western Europe are rather limited, however. But the division assumes that it will be able to further strengthen its position also in this extremely competitive market, due in particular to the expansion of the model portfolio. Fairly stable unit sales are anticipated for the smart brand.

Daimler Trucks also assumes that its unit sales will increase this year. Following the significant growth in 2011, the division intends to continue to grow faster than the total market in Europe. For the Brazilian market, demand is expected to fall at first following the record year 2011, due to the introduction of stricter emission standards.

The recovery of the truck market in the NAFTA region will probably continue. Because of the high average age of vehicle fleets there, the need to invest in replacements is still very high. On the basis of well-filled order books, the division assumes that it will be able to profit from that development to an above-average extent. Rising unit sales are anticipated also in Japan. Reconstruction after the natural disaster is leading to a stronger demand for trucks in that market.

With its activities in Russia, India and China, the division has created the right conditions for further growth in those markets. The final approval of the authorities for the joint venture in China was granted last year, the joint venture in Russia with Kamaz presented the first truck with components from Daimler, and the first plant in India will be opened in April 2012.

In general, the division assumes that it will be able to further improve its worldwide market position in the coming years. Daimler Trucks will be supported by a large number of new models and the flexibility of its global production network.

At Mercedes-Benz Vans, the positive trend of unit sales should continue, aided on the product side by the new city van Citan, which will enable the division to utilize additional growth potential in a new market segment as of this year. Van production in Argentina was changed over to the current generation of the Sprinter at the beginning of the year 2012. As a result, the range of products in Latin American markets is being significantly upgraded. Unit sales in China should be substantially increased by means of local production. As part of this development, in addition to the Vito and Viano models, the joint venture Fujian Daimler Automotive has also been producing the Sprinter since the end of 2011.

Daimler Buses assumes that it will be able to maintain its globally leading position in its core markets for buses above 8 tons with innovative and high-quality new products. However, a slight decrease in unit sales is anticipated in 2012 because of the introduction of Euro V emission regulations in Brazil. Slight growth in unit sales is expected in Western Europe, the stable core market, due to the launch of the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro, a product of outstanding quality.

Daimler Financial Services anticipates further growth for both contract volume and new business in its core business of vehicle financing and leasing. This should be supported in particular by growth in the BRIC markets and by the provision of financial services for the new cars in the compact-car segment. In the area of insurance, the division aims to achieve further growth in the number of policies brokered and in its market share. Strong growth is also expected in the new Mobility Services business unit, into which the car2go mobility concept was integrated in the year 2011.

On the basis of assumptions on the development of major sales markets and the planning of the divisions, the Daimler Group expects that its unit sales will increase again significantly this year, and that its revenue will also continue to grow. Daimler aims to post EBIT from the ongoing business in the magnitude of the prior year. This is based on the assumption of currency exchange rates at close to the present levels.

The following EBIT targets have been set for the divisions:

Mercedes-Benz Cars: at the prior-year level
Daimler Trucks: at least at the prior-year level
Mercedes-Benz Vans: at least at the prior-year level
Daimler Buses: at least at the prior-year level
Daimler Financial Services: slightly below the prior-year level

Daimler aims for an annual average return on sales for the automotive business of 9% across market and product cycles. This is based on target returns on sales for the individual divisions, which are to be achieved on a sustained basis as of 2013, of 10% for Mercedes-Benz Cars, 8% for Daimler Trucks, 9% for Mercedes-Benz Vans and 6% for Daimler Buses. The target for Daimler Financial Services is a return on equity of 17%.

In the period of 2012 through 2013, Daimler will invest a total of €21.5 billion in research and development activities (€10.9 billion) and property, plant and equipment (€10.6 billion). That is
€3.2 billion more than in the years 2010 and 2011.

In order to achieve its ambitious growth targets, Daimler will require additional employees in all its divisions. In connection with expanding the production capacities, new jobs will be created above all in North America, Asia and Hungary. By developing production capacities abroad, the jobs in Germany are being secured for the long term.

Table: Earnings in both years were affected by special factors, which are listed in the following table:

In millions of euros

2011

2010

Daimler Trucks

Impairment of investment in Kamaz

Natural disaster in Japan

Adjustment of health-care and pension benefit plans

Repositioning of Daimler Trucks North America

Repositioning of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation

-32

-70

160

-37

-3

Daimler Financial Services

Natural disaster in Japan

Repositioning of business activities in Germany

Sale of non-automotive assets

-10

-82

-9

Reconciliation

Impairment of investment in Renault

Gain on the sale of shares in Tata Motors

Income connected with the settlement of a legal dispute

Anniversary bonus and allocation to Foundation

-110

265

218

-213

The figures in this document are preliminary and have not yet been approved by the Supervisory Board nor audited by the external auditors.

Further information from Daimler is available at: www.media.daimler.com and www.daimler.com

The figures in this document are preliminary and have neither been approved yet by the Supervisory Board nor audited by the external auditor.

This document contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current views about future events. The words “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “should” and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to many risks and uncertainties, including an adverse development of global economic conditions, in particular a decline of demand in our most important markets; a worsening of the public debt crisis in the eurozone; a deterioration of our funding possibilities on the credit and financial markets; events of force majeure including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, political unrest, industrial accidents and their effects on our sales, purchasing, production or financial services activities; changes in currency exchange rates; a shift in consumer preference towards smaller, lower margin vehicles; or a possible lack of acceptance of our products or services which limits our ability to achieve prices as well as to adequately utilize our production capacities; price increases in fuel or raw materials; disruption of production due to shortages of materials, labor strikes, or supplier insolvencies; a decline in resale prices of used vehicles; the effective implementation of cost-reduction and efficiency-optimization measures; the business outlook of companies in which we hold a significant equity interest, most notably EADS; the successful implementation of strategic cooperations and joint ventures; changes in laws, regulations and government policies, particularly those relating to vehicle emissions, fuel economy and safety; the resolution of pending governmental investigations and the conclusion of pending or threatened future legal proceedings; and other risks and uncertainties, some of which we describe under the heading “Risk Report” in Daimler’s most recent Annual Report. If any of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or if the assumptions underlying any of our forward-looking statements prove incorrect, then our actual results may be materially different from those we express or imply by such statements. We do not intend or assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made.

About Daimler
Daimler AG is one of the world’s most successful automotive companies. With its divisions Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Daimler Buses and Daimler Financial Services, the Daimler Group is one of the biggest producers of premium cars and the world’s biggest manufacturer of commercial vehicles with a global reach. Daimler Financial Services provides financing, leasing, fleet management, insurance and innovative mobility services.
The company’s founders, Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz, made history with the invention of the automobile in the year 1886. As a pioneer of automotive engineering, Daimler continues to shape the future of mobility today: The Group’s focus is on innovative and green technologies as well as on safe and superior automobiles that appeal to and fascinate its customers. For many years now, Daimler has been investing continually in the development of alternative drive systems with the goal of making emission-free driving possible in the long term. So in addition to vehicles with hybrid drive, Daimler now has the broadest range of locally emission-free electric vehicles powered by batteries and fuel cells. This is just one example of how Daimler willingly accepts the challenge of meeting its responsibility towards society and the environment.
Daimler sells its vehicles and services in nearly all the countries of the world and has production facilities on five continents. Its current brand portfolio includes, in addition to the world’s most valuable automotive brand, Mercedes-Benz, the brands smart, Maybach, Freightliner, Western Star, BharatBenz, Fuso, Setra, Orion and Thomas Built Buses. The company is listed on the stock exchanges of Frankfurt and Stuttgart (stock exchange symbol DAI). In 2011, the Group sold
2.1 million vehicles and employed a workforce of more than 271,000 people; revenue totaled
€106.5 billion and EBIT amounted to €8.8 billion.

Contact: Telephone:

Florian Martens +49 (0) 711-17-35014

Contact: Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd.:

Shekhar Daschowdhury: Tel. 021-35673000 e-mail: shekhar.daschowdhury @daimler.com

Ghazal Javed: Tel. 021-35673566 e-mail: ghazal.javed@daimler.com

Yamaha announces Riding Clinic-III

Raju — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:20:01 +0000

After an overwhelming response of R15 One Make Race Championship & Riding Clinic last year, INDIA YAMAHA
MOTOR PVT. LTD. announces the next season of its international event “RIDING CLINIC-III”. The Clinic is being
organized in association with Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd., Japan and Madras Motor Sports Club.

In an effort to provide better knowledge & experience to young enthusiastic bikers, we are specially inviting Ex-GP rider,
Mr. Osamu Miyazaki to conduct this Clinic in India and share his knowledge. You will be trained on Basic bike check up,
Daytona Racing Kit parts, Correct Riding posture, the Right racing line, Braking, Cornering, etc in detail.

FLASHBACK- 2010
In 2010, two riders from Yamaha Riding Clinic-2010 were shortlisted on the basis of their performance by Yamaha
trainers. They got a chance to represent India and participate in the “8th Yamaha ASEAN Cup Race” held in Malaysia
from 10th – 12th December 2010.

FLASHBACK- 2011
In 2011, separate clinics were organized for novice & expert riders. The major highlight of the event was video feedback
given to all riders. The riders showed tremendous improvement in their timings and appreciated our efforts.

PLAN- 2012
This year we plan to conduct separate clinics for expert & novice class, focusing on an advanced course for both
categories. Our aim is to provide competitive training to individuals as an initiative to improve the overall standard
of Indian motorsports. The focus of training would be towards improving physical & mental fitness, vehicle setup,
performance comparison, high speed cornering, etc.

The Riding Clinic is open for all riders restricting the entries to first 30 registrations in each batch (first come first served
basis).

OPPORTUNITIES FOR DESERVING RIDERS
During the course of attending “YAMAHA RIDING CLINIC-III” and “R15 ONE MAKE RACE CHAMPIONSHIP-
2012”, best performing riders selected as per the selection criteria will get a chance to represent INDIA and participate in
the “YAMAHA ASEAN CUP RACE” to be held in late, 2012.

Talented riders can further get a chance to compete in “ASIA ROAD RACE CHAMPIONSHIP 600cc class” based on
their performance in “YAMAHA ASEAN CUP RACE-2012”.
Rider selected based on his results in the “ASIA ROAD RACE CHAMPIONSHIP 600cc class” can make his life time
dream come true as he could get a chance to participate in the Grand Prix.

DONI TATA, a rider from Indonesia made to GRAND PRIX through this race.
He started his career as a rider in “INDONESIA YAMAHA CUP RACE”. Due to his excellent performance, he got a
chance to participate in the YAMAHA ASEAN CUP RACE, where he proved himself and which led him to ASIA ROAD
RACE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE 600cc class and later to the Grand Prix 125cc, 250cc and currently 600 CC category.

We also expect some Indian riders to follow his footsteps and bring laurel to our country & INDIA YAMAHA MOTOR.

DETAILS OF THE CLINIC
Trainer: Will be announced after final confirmation of availability from Yamaha Motor Co., Japan.
Dates:
Batch I: 8th – 9th May 2012
Batch II: 10th – 11th May 2012
Venue: Madras Motor Sports Track, Irrungattukottai, Chennai
Max entries per batch: 30
Fee structure:
Normal fee: Novice- Rs. 4000/-, Expert- Rs. 5,000/-
For Yamaha R15 customers*: Novice- Rs. 3000/-, Expert- Rs. 4,000/-
Payable by DD favoring Madras Motor Sports Club, and sent to the Club at 123/1, T T K Road, Alwarpet, Chennai 600
018. Email: mmsc_chennai@yahoo.co.in
Contact Person: Mr. Pramod Kumar (09841065145)

*Yamaha customers need to submit a copy of their bike registration certificate as a proof of ownership.

It will be a two (2) day event for each batch.

Day 1

08.30: Riders Registration
09.00 – 09.30: Opening Ceremony
09.30 – 10.00: Riding Seminar
10.00 – 10.30: Machine Setup
10.30 – 17.00: Practical Training, Advice & Free Practice.

Day 2

08:30: Riders Briefing
09.00 – 09.30: Machine Setup
09:30 – 16:00: Practical Training, Advice & Free Practice.
16.00 – 16.30: Q&A
16:30 – 17.00: Race
17.00 – 17.30: Closing Ceremony

We invite all interested riders to get them registered with us and/or Madras Motor Sports Club, latest by 1st April 2012.

WE WISH GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE RIDERS!
YAMAHA FAMILY

Mercedes-Benz India launches GL ‘Grand Edition’–Ultimate in luxury off-roading

Raju — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:47:26 +0000

SUV segment has witnessed steady growth in India – increasingly becoming the preferred vehicle of choice
The GL ‘Grand Edition’: visually more impressive and elegance personified
Unique 10 spoke 20 inch light alloy wheels, high quality two-tone leather seats, metallic paint finishes(new colour citrine brown)
Attractive Price Range: GL Grand Edition Executive : 60,99,000 and GL Grand Edition Luxury : 65,50,000

Pune: Mercedes-Benz India today launched the GL-Class ‘Grand Edition’, further re-iterating its position of offering the widest product portfolio for the Indian luxury car market. The GL Class is one of the biggest luxury SUVs in its segment and the launch of the ‘Grand Edition’ further strengthens the company’s presence in the increasingly popular SUV segment in India.

Speaking on the launch of the vehicle Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India said, “India has burgeoning potential in terms of demand for SUVs. The superior connectivity and improved road conditions are fuelling this growth. Mercedes-Benz is an aspirational brand and GL-Class has received very encouraging response from the customers since its launch in India. The GL ‘Grand Edition’ has been aggressively priced for the Indian market and like its success in other markets; the introduction of the vehicle will further strengthen our dominance in the luxury Large SUV segment. The GL ‘Grand Edition’ with its proven off-roading prowess and luxurious interiors is ideal to suit the taste of the growing number of off-roading aficionados in India”.

The distinctive, new GL- Class Grand Edition’s level of spaciousness and comfort is at par with that of a luxury saloon. Features reserved exclusively for the ‘Grand Edition’ includes unique light-alloy wheels with 50.8 cm (20-inch) tyres, in Himalayan grey metallic with a high-sheen finish, append to the vehicle’s exclusivity. The rich quality, new design two-tone leather seats in the color combinations black / porcelain and black / maroon leather upholstery with individual fluting pattern and contrasting topstitching, is exclusive to the Grand Edition.

The exclusive front end design of the ‘Grand Edition’ is unique, the dark-tinted headlamps, a radiator grille with black, high-sheen louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps define this special edition. There are other visual highlights too, such as metallic paint finishes, heat-insulating and infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round, aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs, and divided exhaust tailpipe trim. The ‘Grand Edition’ accommodates up to seven people with exceptional level of spaciousness. The comfort headrests for the driver and front passenger, ambient lighting, roof liner in black designo fabric, velour floor mats with contrasting stitching and ‘Grand Edition’ lettering, ‘Grand Edition’ badge on the centre console, adds to the allure of the vehicle.

The GL-Class Grand Edition packs convenient features like EASY –PACK tailgate and extremely practical electronically folding third row seat that ensures convenience for its occupants. Although the GL’s size is intimidating, parking it is one of the easiest tasks, as it comes equipped with PARKTRONIC and COMAND APS system with a reversing camera that help manoeuvre the car easily in tight parking spaces. The THERMOTRONIC luxury automatic climate control helps maintain different temperatures for the driver, front and rear passengers giving each their own comfort zone.

The commanding GL-Class ‘Grand Edition’ offers remarkable handling and assures for an excellent ride comfort coupled with the most important safety features which is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz. With innovative 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension, Direct-Steer system and the Adaptive Damping System ADS, which also comes as standard adds to the already feature packed car. While the GL cuts an imposing figure on the asphalt, it also has legitimate off-road credentials. The modified AIRMATIC air suspension enables great ground clearance. For the challenging terrains the dynamic handling control systems such as Off-Road ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and Hill-Start Assist also make life easier for the GL-Class driver.

The GL ‘Grand Edition’ will be available in two variants Executive and Luxury. While the Executive will be priced at INR 60, 99,000 (ex-showroom), the Luxury variant will be priced at INR 65, 50,000(ex-showroom)

- ### -

Contact: Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd.:

Shekhar Daschowdhury: Tel. 021-35673000 e-mail: shekhar.daschowdhury @daimler.com

Ghazal Javed: Tel. 021-35673566 e-mail: ghazal.javed@daimler.com

Engine Specifications:

Arrangement/no. of cylinders: V6

Displacement (cc) (cm3): 2,987

Output (kW/hp): 165 / 224

Max. torque (Nm): 510

Approx. top speed (km/h): 210

Power transmission and wheels

Tyres/wheels: 255/50 R 20

Drive system: 4MATIC

Transmission: 7G-TRONIC

Capacities and weights:

Kerb weight (kg): 2,505

Perm. GVW (kg) : 3,250

Boot capacity (VDA) (l): 620-2,300

Permissible towing capacity, unbraked/braked (kg): 750/3,500

Turning circle diameter (m): 12.1

Parx Super Car Show

Raju — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:13:52 +0000

The fourth edition of the Parx Super Car Show is set to rev-off on January 22 2012. The event scheduled to kick-start at 8.30 a.m. and be sure to witness some exotic super car beauties. The Parx super car show will flag-off at 10 am from Riding School, Mahalakshmi Race Course for a 50km route across arterial roads of the city before they re-assemble at the Race Course for the prize distribution. The Parx Super Car show is organized by the Super Car Club (SCC). Mr. Gautam Singhania, CMD of Raymond Limited is the Patron | Founder and Autocar India is the Co-Founder of the Club.

The Super Car Club is the best place for Supercar owners and is said to be a perfect melting pot for elite car owners and enthusiasts with common interests to come together and share their experiences in some of the most sought after venues.

Mr Gautam Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director, Raymond Limited and Founding Chairman of SCC commented on this development. He said, “The annual super cars display and parade in Mumbai has now become a sought-after event every January. This fourth edition of the Parx Super Car Show will have about 80 of India’s best and most powerful supercars on display. This is a whopping jump of nearly 50% in terms of number of participating cars over the last year, indicating the growing interest among super car owners in the Club’s flagship show.

Following SCC’s successful shows in Delhi and Chennai, the Club has been receiving innumerable requests from proud owners of super cars across India to organize similar shows in their respective cities. We, thus, propose to take the Parx Super Car Show to other cities in India including Hyderabad and Bangalore, to establish a connect amongst super car enthusiasts across the country.”

New Swift DZire Spy pictures

Raju — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:02:47 +0000

We have already covered and provided you with clear shots of the New Swift DZire 3.99 in white colour and now what you see is the grey colour scheme doing rounds on the Buddh international circuit. The New Swift DZire 3.99 is offered with safety features including front dual SRS airbags, ELR seatbelts, ABS, Brake Assist, EBD and an Engine Drag Control system.

The Maruti Suzuki new Swift DZire 3.99 is based on the new Swift and the space has been optimized for passenger comfort. It will be offered in both automatic and manual transmission.
newswiftdzire front New Swift DZire 3.99 caught and see whats inside
New Swift DZire 3.99

It also features interiors including dual tone dash, integrated stereo on higher models, climate control air conditioning and measuring 3995mm in length which is 100-litres less compared to the outgoing model.

The new Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire is offered with large tail lamp which is offered with trapezoidal appearance and looks decent.

The New Swift DZire will be offered in both petrol and diesel engine that is offered with K12M VVT petrol engine which delivers 87PS of power at 6000rpm and 114Nm of torque at 4000rpm and the diesel engine will retain the same 1.3-litre DDiS engine that generates 75PS of power at 4000rpm and 190Nm of torque at 2000rpm. The new Swift DZire will also be offered with a four-speed automatic transmission with the petrol engine during the launch and will also add an automatic transmission in diesel in the near future.

New Swift DZire Spy pictures

Source: Zigwheels.com

Mahindra Scorpio better known as the Mighty Muscular Scorpio is all set to explode on your screen today

Raju — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:34:18 +0000

Do you own a Mahindra Scorpio or are you just a big fanatic of a scorpio? We have news that Mahindra Scorpio better known as the Mighty Muscular Scorpio is all set to explode on your screen today. We have had a sneak preview of the same and if you love Mahindra Scorpio and animation then this is a must watch. Mahindra Scorpio is India’s largest selling SUV and for no doubts has a huge fan following and crave in India. Over the years Mahindra has tweaked the SUV to become more rugged and tough in appearance. The Mighty Muscular Scorpio commonly known as is said to take on the

Mahindra Scorpio the Big Daddy of Cars

toughest terrains of India with ease. We sure love the Mahindra Scorpio’s attitude and now the Might Muscular Scorpio is all set to go digital in the form of “Big Daddy of Cars.”

Mahindra has released a teaser of the animation. A lot of fuzz nibble is being witness between various cars and then the Big Daddy of Cars Mahindra Scorpio arrives for a desert showdown. For now this all that’s baking – Stay tuned as the entire video or movie will be released today.

Chevrolet’s new MPV- Enjoy MPV

Raju — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:25:15 +0000

Chevrolet’s new MPV which is basically the Chinese Wuling CN-100 will be named as Enjoy in India. Chevrolet showed its MPV Enjoy at the recently concluded Auto Expo.
The Enjoy MPV will launch with 95 bhp 1.4 liter petrol initially and a 1.3 liter SDE diesel engine will come by early next year. Chevrolet is hoping to grap a substantial market share in Indian MPV segment currently dominated by Toyota Innova. With its versatile seating arrangement and value for money, the Enjoy MPV will surely give run for the money for Toyota Innova, and Mahindra Xylo. Chevrolet is planning to price the Enjoy MPV starting from Rs. 6 lakh.

Chevrolet had removed wraps from the MPV at the Auto Expo 2012 and at that time it just called it MPV but now sources reveal that Chevrolet has named its MPV as ‘Enjoy’. Chevrolet Enjoy MPV has been a bestseller for Chinese MPV brand Wuling and General Motors would expect it to repeat the history in India as well.

Chevrolet Enjoy MPV feature 1.4 liter petrol engine churning 94 Bhp. Chevrolet Enjoy MPV would also be available with 1.3 liter Multijet diesel motor that holds the GM markings. It has been so because the engine was developed jointly by Fiat and General Motors.

It is also expected that two more upcoming cars under the flagship of General Motors namely Chevrolet Sail hatchback and sedan will feature the same engine.

Chevrolet Enjoy is eight-seater MPV, which is based on the Chinese Wuling CN-100 and it is expected to wear a price tag of Rs 6 Lakhs. The new MPV under the flagship of Chevy is expected to give stiff competition to Mahindra Xylo and the Toyota Innova with its performance, features and pricing.

Not much has been talked about the features and specification of the MPV but it is expected that Chevrolet Enjoy would hit the Indian roads in mid of 2012. With elegant looks, features and competitive pricing, Chevrolet Enjoy is sure to grab the attention of potential customers.

Expected Price of Chevrolet Enjoy in India – Rs 6 Lakhs

Expected Release Date of Chevrolet Enjoy in India – Mid-2012

Hyundai Eon, D-Lite+, Era+ and Magna+, is said to comprise of LPG fuel options, where the drive is powered by both petrol and LPG options

Raju — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:58:36 +0000

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), the leading passenger car exporter of India, has launched three new versions of its latest entrant in the segment of compact hatchbacks, Eon. These new variants with additional innovative attributes will hit the Indian market with a price hike of around Rs. 7000.

The new variants of Hyundai Eon, D-Lite+, Era+ and Magna+, is said to comprise of LPG fuel options, where the drive is powered by both petrol and LPG options through a switch provided on the dashboard. With these new variants, Eon with LPG option is estimated to be costlier by Rs. 27000 as compared to their respective petrol options.

While speaking on this launch, Mr. H.W Park, Managing Director and Chief Executive, HMIL, said, “The idea behind the new variants is to offer extra value to our customers. The LPG variant forms part of Hyundai’s blue drive (eco-friendly) range which comes with factory-fitted separate petrol (32 liters) and LPG (34 liters) tanks that guarantees enhanced safety to customers with a two-year warranty,”

The base variant of Hyundai Eon, D-Lite+, is furnished with power steering as a standard feature in addition to enhanced features such as gear shift indicator, body colored bumpers and air conditioning and is said to be priced at Rs. 2.98 Lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).

The next available variant, Era+ comes with all the features of the D-Lite+ and further includes front power windows and center locking stepping up the safety quotient of the car. This variant is estimated to be priced at Rs 3.12 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).

Magna+, the top end variant of Eon, in addition to features of Era+, includes enhanced attributes such as two-din audio system with USB and Aux and will be tagged with a price of 3.42 lakhs (ex- showroom Delhi).

These new variants of Hyundai Eon will further strengthen its current market position by giving a tough competition to the other big players in this segment, such as Maruti’s Alto and A-Star, Tata Indica, Honda Brio and Chevrolet Spark.

Honda CBR250R won motorcycle of the year Award 2012 – second time in a row

Raju — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:20:19 +0000

Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) is the most prestigious awards of the Indian automotive industry for motorcycle. This award is in line with the international standards and modeled on similar lines as in America, Europe and Japan. The Indian Motorcycle of the Year, IMOTY 2012, was awarded to Honda CBR250R with the maximum points

To qualify for IMOTY awards the bike should hit the showroom in India before 30th November in the corresponding year and should have been homologated for Indian type of approval. Apart from these bikes with facelifts, minor changes in specification and power do not qualify for these awards. Thereafter the nominated motorcycles are judged on various parameters such as price, fuel efficiency, performance, safety, design, comfort, functionality, rider’s satisfaction, ergonomics, environmental responsibility, technical innovation and value for money.

The motorcycle will be allotted points for each parameter by jury panel. The jury panel comprises senior automobile experts who get together to vote for the most impressive motorcycle of the year. Using their analytic skills and competence, the jury panel tests each motorcycle. The motorcycle which gets maximum points will be declared as IMOTY bike of the year. The voting system is very fair and transparent which makes the IMOTY amongst the most credible and coveted awards.

The esteemed jury for IMOTY comprised of B.Bob Rupani and Gautam Sen of Auto India, Vikrant Singh and Rahul Ghosh of Auto Bild, Aspi Bhathena of Car India, Sirish Chandran, Shubhabrata Marmar and Bertrand D’souza of Overdrive, Girish Karkera, Debabrata Sarkar and Sriram Narayanan of Top Gear, Srinivas Krishnan and Pablo Chaterji of BS Motoring. This specialist jury consisting of senior Indian automotive journalists is the best from the industry and together they have over 300 years of experience.

The finalists for the IMOTY category were Bajaj Boxer BM150, Honda CBR250R, Hero Impulse, Harley-Davidson Iron, Hyosung GT650N and Kawasaki Ninja 650R. It was a close competition between the top three bikes – Honda CBR250R, Hero Impulse and Hyosung GT650N.

Congratulating the winners, Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. said, “I am delighted to be a part of this event today that celebrates the achievements of the Indian automobile industry. India is positioned to become one of the world’s most attractive automotive markets for both manufacturers and consumers. The resulting benefits to society—in economic growth, increased jobs, and other benefits—are considerable. The ‘Indian Car of the Year’ and ‘Indian Motorcycle of the Year’ awards, ICOTY & IMOTY as they are popularly called, recognise and honour the focused & rigorous efforts made by auto manufacturers with the highest level of performance in the areas of design excellence, innovation and R&D. Started way back in 2007, the awards continue to reflect the commitment, zeal, enthusiasm and stand as a benchmark of excellence which every auto manufacturer aims to earn.”

Shubhabrata Marmar, Deputy Editor, Overdrive and Chairperson Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2012 said, “The Honda CBR250R was the top pick in voting for each and every one of the judges because of its wonderful blend of performance, price and most crucially, for being an easy to ride motorcycle that will appeal to the novice and help him or her grow as a motorcyclist, as well as an exciting bike that will thrill an experienced motorcycle enthusiast.”

This is the second time in a row Honda motorcycle won this award. Last year this IMOTY was awarded to CB Twister. In the past, the Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) awards were given to Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi (2008), Yamaha R15 (2009) and Kawasaki Ninja 250R (2010). It seems that Honda will give stiff fight for the next award as well.

- Mahavir Kothari
(Source: J K Tyre press release) Via Bikeadvice.in

Mahindra has launched the world’s first fleet of a Hydrogen fuelled three wheelers at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

Raju — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:18:23 +0000

Mahindra has launched the world’s first fleet of a Hydrogen fuelled three wheelers at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012. This hydrogen powered three wheeler is tagged as HyAlfa. Hydrogen is a carbon free fuel thus making the HyAlfa three wheeler very eco-friendly and non-pollutant.

This project has taken close to three years to its final stage. The project investment was one million USD and half of the investment was co-funded by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) International Centre for Hydrogen Energy Technologies (UNIDO-ICHET) based in Istanbul, Turkey.

A three wheeler or better known as auto-rickshaws in our country is a popular affordable mode of transport all over Asia. The three wheeler industry has seen a transformation in the recent past from two stroke engines to cng fuelled four stroke engine. Now the hydrogen fuelled engines are expected to replace the cng fuelled four stroke engine in the near future. The HyAlfa three wheelers will use hydrogen – a carbon free fuel and thus remove all pollutants. The new technology is also said to be low on fuel consumption when compared to gasoline with 1 kg of hydrogen giving around 80 km of mileage.

Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra said, “As part of its mobility initiatives, Mahindra has aimed at providing alternative fuel technology solutions and the HyAlfa is another step towards it. We have prepared 15 vehicles for integration of the optimised engine, storage system, fuelling system and safety features for this hydrogen fuel enabled vehicle”.
Dr Goenka further added “We are already working on integrating a comprehensive eco-system of sustainable mobility solutions, encompassing alternative technologies such as electric, hybrid and fuel cells into our research, development and commercialisation plans. This is our endeavour towards shaping the future of mobility while ensuring a clean and green environment”.

DELHY-3W project co-ordinator was The Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IITD). Air Products USA is the project partner and sponsor by providing the hydrogen refuelling station and management and technical services. Mahindra was hugely involved in developing the vehicle to its final stages. The project has received all necessary permits and approvals from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).

Photo Gallery:

Honda VT1300CX called very aptly as the ‘Fury’ worldwide.

Raju — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:01:56 +0000

Among all the insane machinery kept at Honda’s stall, one machine which was different in all senses was the all blue and ‘not much seen before’ long legged and immensely chromed Honda’s true chopper – the monster VT1300CX called very aptly as the ‘Fury’ worldwide.

Yes, among other machines, this forms one of the 7 launches by the company in India at the Auto Expo. Ohh and wasn’t it breathtakingly good? Dare I say it the least! From supersports to cruisers to choppers we are seeing it all and in speed. Standing beside the handsome FireBlade this bike carved its own story.

Despite getting criticized for being a slow starter Honda got all the accolades at this year’s Auto Expo and I would probably rate them as the most aggressive company at the moment.

Straight from their global lineup here comes the ‘fun’ offering (as Honda puts it), the VT1300CX which is definitely an entry in a segment we are not very accustomed to seeing. The lean looking mean monster has a low slung seat, higher mounted steering and a huge wheelbase along with tons of chrome to complete that distinct chopper credentials.

A few prominent bits about the VT1300CX

1312cc liquid cooled 52 degree V-Twin engine
Single-pin crankshaft
Programmed Fuel Injection
Capable of producing 42.5 Kw (~57bhp) of max power @ 4250 rpm
Capable of producing 107Nm of max torque at a very early 2250 rpm
5 speed transmission
Front 336mm single disc with twin piston caliper
Rear 296mm disc with single piston caliper
21 inch front tyre (diameter)
Proper chopper styling
Longest wheelbase in a Honda motorcycle (1805mm)
9 spoke alloy wheels (probably the best I have seen so far)
Fat 200mm rear tyre coupled with slim 90mm front tyre
LED tail light
Clean, reliable and maintenance free shaft drive
Combined ABS
Would be available for sale from February 2012
Color options: Glint Blue Wave Metallic (the one on display at the Expo which looked fantastic) & Graphite Black.

Rest, I would let the pics to do the talking. Drool on!

Gallery:

Source:BikeAdvice

AUTO CAR AWARDS 2012 Powered by Tata AIG

Raju — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 13:27:28 +0000

Tata AIG powered the recently concluded AutoCar Awards held on Jan 13 at the Taj Land’s End, Bandra. The Auto Car Awards 2012 had the who’s who of the Auto circuit in attendance. The Autocar Awards powered by Tata AIG General Insurance, honour the best in class vehicles launched by the industry in the last year. Over the past three years Autocar Awards have grown in popularity and prominence and is widely accepted as an award of stature in the automotive space.

The event gave out awards across 24 different categories ranging from Viewers Choice Bike/Car of the year to Best Value for money car etc. This year Tata AIG instituted an additional award in recognition of the ‘Best Car Dealer of the Year’ which was won by Sai Service Station. This award was presented by Mr. Kaushal K. Mishra – Executive Vice President and Mr. Kurush J. Daruwalla – Executive Vice President, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Ltd.

Mr. Gaurav D. Garg – CEO & Managing Director, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited presented the ‘Best Car Manufacturer’ award to Toyota Motors. Volkswagen ‘Blue Motion Technology’ was conferred the Green Award for 2012 and was presented by Mr. M Ravichandran – Senior Vice President Commercial Lines and Mr. Madhukar Sinha – National Head Personal Lines, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Ltd. These awards were in line with the best of service insurance products that the company has to offer for Auto customers. Tata AIG offers comprehensive insurance cover for Personal Car, Commercial Vehicle and Two wheeler categories. This not only covers third party liability but also covers any loss or damage to ones’ vehicle. Motor Insurance is a key focus for Tata AIG and one of its most vibrant business lines.

The event was attended by several dignitaries like Mr. Narain Karthikeyan, the first Indian to compete in the coveted Formula 1 and Mr. Hormzad Sorabjee, Editor, Auto Car India who has been writing about cars for the last 25 years. Packed with non-stop entertainment, the event was also attended by telly stalwart Mr. Tarun Katiyal and actor Neil Nitin Mukesh. With increased competition in the auto sector the Auto Car awards can only get more exciting in 2012 and Tata AIG will continue to support initiatives such as the AutoCar awards that recognize the best in the industry.

Tata AIG General Insurance Company

Tata AIG General Insurance Company provides insurance solutions to individuals and corporates. It offers a complete range of general insurance products including insurance for automobile, home, personal accident, travel, energy, marine, property and casualty as well as several specialized financial lines. Tata AIG believes in offering innovative and relevant insurance solutions in the retail and commercial space. Each product offering is backed by expertise and an unparalleled claims service.

Tata AIG’s products are available through various channels of distribution like agents, brokers, banks (through bancassurance tie ups) and direct channels like Tele Marketing, Digital Marketing, e-commerce, website etc. Tata AIG has its operations in 59 cities.

Awards and Recognition of Tata AIG General Insurance in 2011

Celent Model Insurer Awards 2011, NewYork
Indian Insurance Awards 2011: Company of the Year Award 2011 for Health Insurance
Indian Insurance Awards 2011: Best Product Innovation Award 2011 for PCG
MIF-ILO (Microfinance Innovation Facility – International Labour Organization) grant for implementation of project “Usage of Mobile devices for enrolment and claim settlement in cattle insurance”
E-Commerce award at the Asia Insurance Technology Awards in 2011
Celent Model Insurer Asia Award 2012 in the area of Service
Celent Model Insurer Asia Award 2012 in the area of Marketing

Hero MotoCorp has revealed its new Leap Hybrid concept Scooter at the Auto Expo

Raju — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:42:46 +0000

Hero MotoCorp has revealed its new Leap Hybrid concept Scooter at the Auto Expo. The Leap is the first hybrid concept scooter in India which will run on both petrol and electric power. It gives a new way for Hero’s future products which could use the hybrid technology.

Hero says,”This concept is a culmination of the added impetus the firm is laying on research and development and that is certainly a welcome sign for a company which for long has depended and is still largely depending on Japanese auto giant Honda for technology”.

The Leap Hybrid concept scooter in hybrid mode is expected to deliver up to 100 Kmpl per liter of petrol as it combines electric and petrol power which makes it one of the most fuel efficient scooters in India. So, the Leap hybrid concept will be apt for Hero’s portfolio.

The Leap Hybrid Concept Scooter is exclusively designed for the average scooter buyer since it is more affodable form of transport.

SACRED HEART ( CHURCH PARK ) ALUMUNI CAR RALLY

Raju — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:23:21 +0000

SACRED HEART ( CHURCH PARK ) ALUMUNI CAR
RALLY

ORGANISED BY:

MADRAS MOTOR SPORTS CLUB

123/1, T T K ROAD, ALWARPET,
CHENNAI 600 018
PHONE 044 2499 0998
FAX 044 2499 3984
EMAIL : mmsc_chennai@yahoo.co.in
www.madrasmotorsports.in

APPROVED BY

(National Sports Federation recognized by the Government of India)

ANNOUNCEMENT

This rally will run in Time/Speed/Distance (TSD) format on a Non-Cumulative basis, and will be run in
compliance with the International Sporting Code of the FIA, National Competition Rules (NCR) of The
Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) and these Supplementary Regulations(SRs).

Modifications, amendments and/or changes to these Supplementary Regulations will be announced
only by numbered and dated Competitors Information Bulletins (CIB), issued by the Organiser and
approved by the FMSCI / Stewards.

ACQUAINTANCE WITH & SUBMISSION TO RULES
- Every person, or group of persons, organizing a competition or taking part therein:
- Shall be deemed to be acquainted with the National Competition Rules of the FMSCI
- All competitors must sign the indemnity and declaration, which are enclosed with the Entry
form.
- These are the conditions precedent attached to the submission of entries and taking part in an
event and all competitors participating in the meet shall be bound by them and also the rules
and regulations hereinafter set out or amendments made thereto.
- Shall undertake to submit themselves without reserve to the above and to the decisions and the
consequences resulting there from.

ARTICLE 1: PROGRAMME

1.1

Schedule
Description
Entries open with publication of
these Supplementary Regulation

Closing of entries

Publication of Starting Order

Document Verification and Pre-
event scrutiny

First Stewards’ Meeting

Compulsory Drivers’ Briefing
Meeting

Start & Finish of the Rally

Posting of Provisional Results

Final Results & Prize Distribution

1.2

Official Notice Board:
Official Notice Board will be located at Rally H.Q.
01/2012

Venue
MADRAS MOTOR SPORTS
CLUB

CHURCH PARK, CHENNAI 86

Time and Date

4 30 PM ON 21/01/2012

6 P M ON 21/01/2012

4 30 P M ON 21/01/2012

6 P M ON 21/01/2012

4 30 P M ON 21/01/2012

9 00 A M ON 22/01/2012

12 30 P M ON 22/01/2012

3 P M ON 22/01/2012

3 30 P M ON 22/01/2012

CHURCH PARK, CHENNAI 86 FROM
4 30 P M TO COMPLETION OF THE
RALLY ON 22/01/2012.

M M S C UPTO 4 P M ON 21/

1.3
Start of the Rally
CHURCH PARK, CHENNAI 86

ARTICLE 2: ORGANISATION

2.1.1

Organisers

018

2.1.2

Organising Committee

22/01/2012

MADRAS MOTOR SPORTS CLUB,
123/1, T T K ROAD, CHENNAI 600

MR. ASHISH GUPTA …………….CHAIRMAN
MS. MARY RODRIGUES
MS. TAHSIN CHACKO
MS. PURNA SHANKAR
MS. NIRUPAMA REDDY

MR. AMIT ARORA
MR. PRAMOD KUMAR

2.1.3

Officials of the meet:
Chief Steward

Steward

Club Steward

Chief Scrutineer

Assistant Scrutineer (If applicable)

Clerk of the course

Secretary of the meet

Competitors’ Relation Officer

Results Co-Ordinator

Chief Marshall

Chief Medical Officer

Chief Safety Officer

2.2

Rights And Obligations Of The Organisers

2.2.1 The organizer may issue any Competitor Information Bulletins (CIBs) and / or written
instructions to competitors at any time with the approval of FMSCI / Stewards. Written
instructions when issued shall be signed by each competitor / entrant as proof of receipt
and shall have the same legal force as these supplementary regulations. All CIBs will be
communicated via dated and sequentially numbered bulletins. These bulletins shall have the
force and will constitute an integral part of these regulations and will be posted at the official
notice board. Details of the official notice board should be mentioned in the SR. As far as
possible, the CIBs shall be brought to the notice of the individual competitors. However it is
the responsibility of the competitor and / or entrant to acquaint themselves with the CIBs and /
or written instructions posted at the official notice board.

2.2.2

The provisions of the present regulations may only be amended according to Art.66 of the
FIA Sporting Code. The organizing committee and the stewards of the meeting reserve the
right to amend the prescriptions of the present regulations according to the circumstances and
cases which arise. Competitors will be informed of any amendments as soon as possible. Any
amendments / additional provisions will be announced by dated and sequentially numbered
bulletins which are an integral part of these regulations. These bulletins will be posted at the
official notice boards and will also be directly communicated to the competitors.

2.2.3

The Stewards of the Meeting are empowered to take a decision on any case not covered by the
present regulations.

2.2.4

The interpretations of these regulations and decisions regarding any unforeseen circumstances
shall rests with the Steward/s of the meeting.

2.2.5

The Organisers will ensure that all relevant permissions are obtained from the competent

authorities prior to the event, copies of which must be made available to the Stewards

MR.ANOOP NANGIA

MR. VASUKI KRISHNAN

MR. ROOP KUMAR

MR. AMIT ARORA

MR. PRAMOD KUMAR

MR. CHANDRASEKERAN

MR. VINAY BHIMANI

TBA

DR. UDAYAKUMAR BALAKRISHNA

MR. S MOORTHY

MR. AJAY KRISHNAMANI

ARTICLE 3: GENERAL CONDITIONS

3.1
3.1.1

Generalities
Status of the event

3.1.2

FMSCI Permit No

3.2
3.2.1

Route
The Rally will be run mainly on good tarred ROADS, WITHIN THE City and outskirts.

3.2.2

a) The maximum average speed will not exceed 45 kmph for any section in the speed
chart
b) Wherever there is a Government Prescribed speed limit, the average speed limit
given by the organizers for that section shall be a minimum of 10% less than the
Government prescribed limit.
c) The organizers should ensure that the average speed prescribed for any section can
be easily achieved under normal driving conditions.
d) In the Mountain and Ghat Section the maximum average speed has to be below 40
kmph.
e) When the average speed given is above 45 kmph there shall be no time control in
that section.

3.2.3

The Road Book will contain the information regarding the route to be followed and various
distances. The location of marshal points WILL NOT be disclosed in the road book. Only one
copy of the Road Book will be made available at the Start Time
Competitors must report at every control in the order and direction in which the controls have
been scheduled by the Organisers. Any infringement may entail exclusion.

3.2.4

3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2

Entrant’s Eligibility & Obligations
Any person holding a valid driving and FMSCI Competition licence may enter in this event.
A Letter of Authority for the use of the vehicle must be produced from the owner of the vehicle
in case the owner is not a member of the crew.
It is compulsory for competitors vehicle to have rally cover insurance for the period of the event.
Entrants/Drivers’ attention is particularly drawn to the fact the normal motor policies issued in
India do not provide cover for motor sports. Special insurance cover is mandatory.
Under the laws of the country, it is mandatory that any accident out of which a claim may arise
be reported to the nearest police station.

3.3.3

: CLOSED INVITATION

: 14/2012

3.3.4

3.4
3.4.1

Vehicle Eligibility
All the cars must be individual-ly licensed for the road. USE OF NAVIGATIONAL AIDS AS
TRIP METERS, Halda GPS etc. are not permitted. Likewise, use of Cellular phones Wireless
Communication Sets, Pagers, GPS etc. shall be strictly prohibited under pain of exclusion to be
pronounced by Steward of the Meet.
This Event is open to ALL TYPES of four wheelers. Also all four wheelers will run as one class
irrespective of their engine capacity. Soft top vehicles are not allowed.
Any type of fuel is permitted provided it complies with Government / RTO Laws.

3.4.2

3.4.3

3.5
3.5.1

Entries
Entry forms duly filled, confirming to these regulations along with the appropriate Fees must be
submitted to the organizers not later than 21/01/2012; 4 30 P M
By the very fact of signing the entry form, the entrant as well as driver submit and bind
themselves to resort only to the NCR of the FMSCI.

3.5.2

3.6
3.6.1

Entry Fees
Entry fees will be as follows:
Rs. 1000 for a crew of TWO PERSONS. Additional Crew is Optional to the maximum of
Two.Additional crew members.

3.7
3.7.1
3.7.2

Starting Order
The Starting Order will be determined by a draw of lots for cars.
Cars will start at ONE minute/s interval.

ARTICLE 4: ENTRANTS OBLIGATIONS
4.1
Document Submission
- Competitors are required to bring: -

-
-
-
-
-
-

Vehicle Registration Book.
Tax Book.
Insurance Cover Note.
SPECIAL RALLY INSURANCE COVER.
Driving Licence.
Authority letter from owner of the car if First Driver / Second Driver are not the owner of the car
used in rally.
Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUC)
The Competitors are required to carry all the above documents throughout the Rally.

-
-

4.2

Safety
SEAT BELTS FOR DRIVER, CO DRIVER AND ALL PASSENGERS ARE MANDATORY as
per RTO regulations. All participants must be seated in seats, which face forward only. (The
Bench type side ways seats of Maruti Gypsy, Mahindra Jeep may be retained but must NOT
be occupied). The Clerk of the Course or his nominated officials may at their sole discretion
exclude a competitor who is deemed unfit for reasons of health or consumption of/under the
influence of alcohol or drugs

ARTICLE 5: SCRUTINY & BRIEFING MEETING

5.1

The Pre Event scrutiny of the vehicles will be carried out on —— 4 30 P M ON 21/01/2012 AT
CHURCH PARK, CHENNAI 86
Non-attendees may not be allowed to start.

ARTICLE 6: TIME CARD

6.1

A Time card will be issued to each competing crew at the start of Rally. Responsibility for the
card rests solely with the crew until it is handed back to an official or marshals of the rally.
Given In the time card, will be following details: -
A) Competition Number.
B) Name of the Driver.
C) Make of the vehicle.
D) Starting time.
E) Registration number of the vehicle.
The specimen sample of time card will be shown to the competitor, he should make the
necessary arrangement to carry and protect his time card book through out the event.
At every control, the crew must ensure that the Marshal signs the time card and furthermore
(except at passage controls) that time which their time card is handed to and official entered
there in. The absence of signature from Control or the failure to hand in the Time Card at any
control (time or passage) will entail penalties as per Article No. 11.
Competitors are themselves responsible for presenta-tion and/or collection of the time card at
the various con-trols and for the accuracy of the entries in the time card. The time card must
remain on board of a vehicle, for the duration of the event and must be presented personally by
the competitor at all the control points.
Officials are permitted to modify an entry that they might have made earlier, but in such case
they must strike out the original entry, and replace it by a completely new one which must be re-
authenticated by a further signature. Any entry which appears to have been tampered with,
may be deemed not to have been made and may result in exclusion for the competitor.
A competitor losing his time card WILL be excluded.
Time card is a property of the organisers and upon re-tirement for any reasons whatsoever,
MUST be returned to the organisers without delay.
At every control, the crew must ensure that the time is also entered in the Marshal’s register.
This must be signed by the competitor.
The onus of ensuring that the correct time is entered rest solely on the competitor.
In case of difference in time noted on the time card and the marshal’s register, the time noted
in the Marshal’s register shall be considered final and binding on all competitors. .

6.2

6.3

6.4
6.5

6.6

6.7
6.8

ARTICLE 7: INDEMNITY

All Entrants must sign the Indemnity Declaration along with the Entry Form.

ARTICLE 8: INSURANCE

Only during the running of the event, all FMSCI Competition License holders having valid civil driving

license are insured for
i) Personal Accident Insurance : Rs.2,00,000/=
ii) Hospitalization benefits : Rs.40,000/=

However, it is strongly advised that all Drivers / Co-Drivers and crew take necessary and adequate
additional insurance covers on their own including hospitalization benefits.

All vehicles must have minimum third party insurance and Special Rally cover (with hospitalization
benefit), valid for the period of the Rally.

ARTICLE 9: ADVERTISING

It is Compulsory to carry Organisers advertisements on the competing vehicles. Competitors
are allowed to carry any kind of advertisement on the vehicle provided that:
A: It is authorised by the National Laws and FMSCI regulations
B: It is not likely to cause any offence
C: It is not political or religious in nature

ARTICLE 10: CONTROLS & CONTROL PROCEDURE
There will be 2 types of controls: TIME TIME CONTROL and PASSAGE CONTROL

10.1

Time Control:
A Banner with a red background displaying a clock will indicate a time control. Each
competitor will stop at these Time Control (T.C.) and present the Time card to the Marshal for
entering the time of arrival – which will be noted on the Marshal’s Register and signed by both.
The time recorded will be the time of crossing the line by vehicle. The time will be recorded to
the seconds. i.e.11 Hrs 37 Min. 03 Sec,

10.2

Passage Control:
A Banner with a red background displaying a stamp sign will indicate a passage control.
Each competitor will stop at these controls and present the time card to the marshal who will
stamp / sign the same as a proof of the passage of the vehicle at that point. TIME WILL NOT
BE NOTED.

ARTICLE 11: PENALTIES

11.1

At Time Control (If Seconds Counted )
1 second late:
1 second early:

11.2

At Time Control (If Minutes Counted )
1minute late:
1 minute penalty
1 minute early:
2 minute penalty
Stopping / zig zag in front of TC:
10 minute penalty
Not stopping at TC:
15 minute penalty
Missing Time Card:
Exclusion
Missing T C:
30 Minute or Exclusion
1st Traffic offence:
Rs 1,000 penalty
2nd Traffic offence:
Exclusion

11.3

At Passage Controls
Missing a control:
Entering a control in WRONG DIRECTION:

1 second penalty
2 second penalty

30 minute or EXCLUSION
EXCLUSION

ARTICLE 12: PROTEST AND APPEALS
12.1
The time limit for protest against Provisional Results is within 30 minutes after the results are
declared on the Official Notice board at the finish venue.
12.2
Any protest must be made in writing and submitted to the COC along with the protest fee.
12.3
Protest fee is Rs 5,000/-. If the protest is unfounded this amount will not be given back.
12.4
Any ruling by the Stewards shall be final and subject only to the right of appeal as provided for
by the NCR of the FMSCI
12.5
The Appeal procedure will be as per the FMSCI’s NCR. The appeal is Rs.80,000/- with

Rs.40,000/- to be paid alongwith intention to appeal and the balance amount with grounds of
appeal within 48 hours.

ARTICLE 13: RANKING & PRIZES
13.1
Ranking
13.1.1 Competitors will be ranked in ascending order of penalty points incurred by them i.e. person
with the least penalty points would be ranked first.
13.1.2 In case of a tie between the competitors who have tied in total Penalties, the same will be
resolved as follows:
- The competitor with MAX NUMBER OF ZERO penalties will be declared as the winner.
- In spite of this if the TIE is not resolved the competitor with MAX ONE penalty will be declared
as the winner.
- In spite of this if the TIE is not resolved the competitor with MAX TWO penalty will be declared
as the winner. .
- AND SO ON In spite of this, if the tie is not resolved, the tie will be resolved by a draw of lots
and the winner will be awarded the Trophy, however the cash prize, if any, will be equally
distributed amongst the tied Competitors.

13.2

Prizes & Prizes Distribution
1st Overall GIFTS
2nd Overall GIFTS
3rd Overall GIFTS

Special gifts to the best performance of an ALL Sacred Heart Team as detailed in Art.14.3.

13.3

The organisers reserve their right to add any number of prizes for this event, till the time of
closing of entries. Any such additions shall be informed by way of a bulletin.

14.

Additional Notes
1. TIME CHECKED IN AT A TIME CONTROL WILL BE TAKEN AS THE TIME CHECKED
OUT.
2. THE EVENT IS OPEN BY INVITATION TO TEAMS, AT LEAST ONE MEMBER OF WHICH
MUST BE A STUDENT, EX STUDENT, STAFF OR EX STAFF MEMBER OF THE SACRED
HEART CHURCH PARK SCHOOL.
3.THE TEAM WHO PERFORMS BEST AND HAS ALL ITS MEMBERS WHO ARE
STUDENTS, EXSTUDENTS, STAFF OR EXSTAFF OF SACRED HEART CHURCH PARK
WILL BE AWARDED GIFTS IN ADDITION TO THOSE MENTIONED IN ART. 13.2. PLEASE
NOTE THAT THIS IS IN ADDITION TO GIFTS FOR OVERALL PLACINGS.

Fiat and Suzuki Motor Corporation have reached an agreement for the supply of Fiat Diesel Engines to Maruti Suzuki (India)

Raju — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:19:11 +0000

Fiat and Suzuki Motor Corporation are continuing to expand their existing fruitful long term business relationship.

The parties have reached a further agreement for the supply of Fiat’s 1.3L MultiJet 75hp BS-IV Small Diesel Engine produced under license by Fiat India Automobiles Limited (FIAL), the joint venture between Fiat and Tata Motors, to Suzuki’s affiliate company Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL).

FIAL will supply up to 100.000 1.3L MultiJet 75hp SDE engines per year to MSIL starting from January 2012 for a period of three years.

The engine will be installed on Suzuki branded vehicles produced in India by MSIL for the local market.

The production of the 1.3L MultiJet 75hp engine for MSIL will start in the fourth week of January at FIAL’s Ranjangaon plant near Pune in Maharashtra State.

These volumes will be in addition to the 1.3L MultiJet SDE engines already licensed by Fiat and manufactured by Suzuki Powertrain India Limited.

The 1.3L Multijet 75hp BS-IV SDE is a 4 cylinder, 16V engine that incorporates Fiat’s acclaimed Mutijet injection technology that has changed the way India perceives diesels.

The 1.3L Multijet has set the benchmark for efficiency and performance in its category, combining performance with low environmental impact.

DC designs launched the much awaited Indian sports supercar Avanti

Raju — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:17:07 +0000

DC designs launched the much awaited Indian supercar. This is a big effort from Dilip Chabria and his team to produce an Indian supercar. DC supercar has been tagged as Avanti and was officially unveiled at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo by the Bollywood Superstar Amitabh Bachchan.

It is to be noted that this is not a prototype supercar from DC, this is a production car. DC intents to go the italian way to name a few Bertone, Ghia, Pininfarina and Stol are design firms who engineer sports cars in limited production to the public. The DC Avanti will be up for production starting 2013. DC has designed many prototype cars; however none hit the production line. The Avanti is all set to change that.

Dilip Chabbria commented on this development. He said, , “We are extremely ecstatic to present the DC Avanti today and it is a manifestation of not just the burgeoning interest in high end sports cars but also as a calling card for our own capabilities which have now progressed from mere styling in the early days to full prototyping and bespoke one-off manufacturing. Every country which has written its name in the pantheon of automobile manufacturing has invariably distinguished itself with sports cars by its own nationals and I thought that India rightly needs to be in this exclusive club.” He also added, “The Indian market for high end automobiles is on a steep uphill curve as witnessed year-on-year and our focus is at the top end of this rarified niche. The design is completely our very own as is the engineering and also the production process. Type approval and on-road tests would follow soon and we intend to simultaneously set up an all new facility at Talegaon near Pune to build this vehicle,”

Specifications of the car:

Engine

Type	2.0L Four Cylinder
Maximum power	240 BHP @ 5500 RPM
Maximum Torque	270lb/ft of torque @3500 RPM
Transmission	MMT6 6speed
Turbocharged engine with direct injection and VVT DOHC Four valves per cylinder

Chassis

Tubular space frame

Jig built

TIG welded

Suspension

Unequal length double wishbones

Coil cover shock absorbers

Steering and Brakes

Rack and pinion
330 mm ventilated discs (Front and Rear) AP racing calipers Wheels
Front	Rim size	8.5J-19
	Tyres	255/35 19” x 8.5 J
	Track	1680 mm
Rear	Rim size	11J-19
	Tyres	295/30 19” x 11 J
	Track	1660 mm

Dimensions

Wheelbase	2700 mm
Length	4623 mm
Width	1967 mm
Height	1213 mm
Front Over hang	993 mm
Rear Over hang	930 mm
Ground clearance	155 mm
Dry kerb weight	1562 kgs

Auto Expo 2012 Bobby Roy Photography

Raju — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 12:56:48 +0000

Auto Expo is one of the largest automotive Expos in the whole of Asia. Hosted for a week, and at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, manufacturers from all over the world gather here to showcase their latest products for the world. This time the Expo opens for the media on the 5th of January, 2012 and shall go on till the 11th January, 2012. I shall be sharing pictures from the Auto Expo, 2012 here, in this album. I hope you all look, share, like and love the album. Enjoy.

FIAT India Automobiles has announced the launch of FIAT Caffe

Raju — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:48:43 +0000

New Delhi, January 6, 2012; FIAT India Automobiles has announced the launch of FIAT Caffe- an initiative
to showcase the distinctive Italian automotive lifestyle experience for FIAT owners and enthusiasts. The
Caffe opening at Tolstoy Marg in New Delhi is the first FIAT Caffe in the country. The second Caffe will be
launched in Pune which makes India the only country in the world to proudly house two FIAT Caffes.

At the Caffe, customers can go through the latest FIAT India cars on display, take a test drive, browse
through FIAT worldwide or FIAT India details, guided by specially trained personnel. The collection of
international FIAT merchandise, giant video screens running FIAT ads, stylish and unique furniture &
fittings will give a glimpse of FIAT’s vast history and rich heritage while adding a luxury feel to the Caffe
There will be special events, product display and previews held at the Caffe from time to time. An in house
library will feature books on FIAT’s glorious history, the various sub brands and its sister companies. The
guests can enjoy the classic Italian atmosphere while enhancing ones knowledge about their favourite
brands, sipping to some authentic Italian coffee, which will be one of the many highlights of the Caffe.

Speaking on this occasion Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, President & CEO FIAT India Automobiles Ltd said, “The
launch of FIAT Caffe is an integral part of our strategy to showcase our commitment to the Indian
customer and market. With this Caffe we aim to promote our Italian heritage and the ‘real’ FIAT brand, by
engaging a passionate connect amongst the audience and prospects with FIAT automobiles. The Caffe will
provide us with an opportunity to hold an array of events, both car and lifestyle related, demonstrating
the values and culture we share at FIAT, amidst the Italian ambiance while sipping on authentic Italian
coffee.”

FIAT will display its merchandise and accessories at these brand stores. It is a marketing initiative with the
idea of buzz creation around the brand and aims at making a bold & crisp statement about its presence
in India. It also aims at audience and prospect engagement as well as sales facilitation. Globally, FIAT has
several Caffes to showcase brands like Ferrari, Lancia, Alfa Romeo and Maserati.

About FIAT India Automobiles Ltd:

FIAT India Automobiles Limited (FIAL) is a 50-50 Industrial Joint Venture between FIAT Group

Automobiles S. p. A., (FIAT) and Tata Motors Limited (Tata) originally incorporated on January 02, 1997.
The company employs about 2323 blue & white collar employees and is located at Ranjangaon in the Pune
District of Maharashtra. The definitive agreement of the Joint Venture was signed in October 11, 2007.
The board of directors for this company comprises of five nominees each from FIAT and Tata.

The state-of-the-art facility at Ranjangaon, which is owned by FIAL, a joint venture company, is capable
of producing 200,000 cars and 300,000 engines, besides 300,000 parts & accessories. Currently
manufacturing the Palio Stile, Linea and the Grande Punto. The facility also manufactures FIAT’s successful
1.3 litre Multijet diesel engines and 1.2 & 1.4 litre Fire gasoline engine. Apart from FIAT cars, the facility
also produces next generation Tata passenger cars. The investment in this Ranjangaon facility already
exceeds € 650 Million. The plant provides direct and indirect employment to more than 4,000 people.

For more information, visit: www.FIAT-india.com

About FIAT Group:

Established in 1899, FIAT is one of the world’s major industrial groups. With operations in over 190
countries, the Group has 203 plants, 118 research centers, 633 companies and more than 198,000
employees. One of the founders of the global automotive industry, right from inception FIAT pursued
a two-pronged development strategy: penetration into foreign markets and focus on innovation. This
focus on innovation is evidenced by the technical quality of its products and the adoption of cutting-edge
industrial and organizational systems.

The Group’s business is carried out through several operating Sectors: FIAT Group Automobiles (FIAT,
Lancia, Alfa Romeo and Abarth brands), Maserati and Ferrari (luxury sports cars), CNH (agricultural and
construction equipment), Iveco (trucks and commercial vehicles), FIAT Powertrain Technologies (engines
and transmissions), Magneti Marelli (automotive components), Teksid (engine blocks, cylinder heads and
other components), Comau (automated production systems) and Itedi (publishing & communications).

For more information, visit:
www.FIATautopress.com; www.FIAT.com;
www.alfaromeo.com; www.abarth.com ; www.FIATprofessional.com

For more information, please contact:
Marius D’Lima
Head – Corporate Communications
FIAT India Automobiles Ltd
Tel: + 91 98201 29889
Email: marius.dlima@fiapl.com

Akshat Jain
Associate Image Manager
Perfect Relations Ltd
Tel: – + 91 9920210948
Email: – akshatj@perfectrelations.com

2012 Delhi Auto Expo with Skoda Fabia RS2000 concept

Raju — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:42:58 +0000

Skoda India, the subsidiary of leading Czech car manufacturer, Skoda Auto, is introducing its rally heritage at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo with Skoda Fabia RS2000 concept. It is a new concept car based on the latest sportscar of the company, Skoda Fabia RS. The rendering of the car shows that the roof is chopped off, giving the car the look of a roadster.

Despite being a convertible, the Fabia RS2000 has four doors and can accommodate 4 passengers comfortably. Unlike other sportscars, the wind screen and the side windows are blended together to provide a unique half-metal and half-glass look to the car. The side windows, black boot lid spoiler and a new cover for the boot space have also been modified. Skoda’s designers have added a wider body frame and 18 inch wide alloy wheels in the car. The RS2000 concept is equipped with a 2 litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 4-wheel drive mechanism. The sloping windscreen of the vehicle provides a great view to the drivers and passengers.

Apart from these, Skoda India is also expected to showcase two other versions of Fabia at the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo, the Fabia Scout and Fabia Monte Carlo.

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