Aprilia SR 150 booking started

Indian arm of Italian two wheeler manufacturer Piaggio is going to launch country's first crossover sport scooterbike - Aprilia SR 150 on August 22. The bookings for the same has already strated on e-commerce website Paytm with an amount of Rs 2,000.

Priced at Rs 65,000 (ex showroom), Paytm is offering 100 percent cashback guarantee on the booking amount. Customers have to use promocode APRILIA2K to get Rs 2,000 cashback.

Aprilia SR 150 comes equipped with air-cooled, 154.4 CC, 4 Stroke engine which churns out maximum power of 11.6 PS @ 7.000 rpm, and 11.5 Nm maximum torque @ 5.500 rpm. It is available in two body colours - Matt Black, and White.

Aimed at young riders, its large 14" Black 5 spoke alloy wheels with five spokes and tubeless wider sport street tyres enhances the sensation of sport bikes with the convenience of automatic scooters. Distinct, Sporty handlebar with integrated turn indicator lights, double-barrel headlight unit on the front beak, Twin pod analogue unit for speedometer, fuel gauge and odometer are some of its other distinct features.

The steel frame structure is designed for higher rigidity, and its design is based on the RSV1000 R Factory. The 220 mm twin piston ventilated front disc brake and 140 mm rear drum brake with black calipers ensures the safety of the riders.

All this is supplemented with the convenience features like retractable front bag hook, stylish foldable integrated pillion footsteps, ample storage under the seat and provision for USB connector to charge your mobile on the go.

Source ET.

Have a look at first ride video by BikeDekho.com

Mahindra working on worlds most affordable electric SUV

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) is said to have begun working on what is being pegged as the most affordable electric SUV in the world through its Mahindra Electric unit, formerly known as Mahindra Reva.

The compact SUV with electric powertrain has been codenamed S107, said people with knowledge of the matter. After the Verito electric version, this is the company's next major project in the space. The idea is to combine the strength of Mahindra's SUV expertise with that of Reva in electric cars. The company, which sells the E2O entry level electric vehicle, recently showcased the Halo sportscar concept.

Source ET.

Datsun Redigo starts at Rs. 238,000/-

Datsun Redigo prices begin at Rs. 2,38,900/- and top model to cost Rs. 3,34,400/-.  Let's compare the different models with price.

RediGo S : Rs. 334,399/-
RediGo T(O) : Rs, 319,399/-
RediGo T : Rs. 3,09,149/-
RediGo A : Rs. 2,82,649/-
RediGo D : Rs.238,900/-

Toyota Innova Crysta

Toyota Innova Crysta builds over the success of Innova and provides some premium features, styling for a premium price which ranges in 14.3 to 19.7 lacs.

Some of the features are, Automatic Climate Control, rear A/C blower, Tilt & Telescopic steering adjustment, Keyless Start, Cruise Control, Reverse Camera and Parking Sensors, and even cup-holders for the third row.

Safety features are seven airbags, along with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), Brake Assist and ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

Datsun redi-Go prices revealed

Datsun has revealed prices for Redi-Go, which is available for booking shortly.   Deliveries will begin from June 2016.

Redi-Go is priced between 2.5 lac to 3.5 lacs.  Booking can be done by paying Rs. 5000/- refundable.
It carries the same engine with Renault Kwid with 5 speed gear box, but a bold and distinctive styling.

Tata Zica renamed as Tata Tiago

Tata has renamed its new car Zica as Tiago.   The original name was sounded like deadly virus Zika making strides internationally and giving a bad vibe with the new car.

Tata run a event with public participation to choose the new name for the car. It was chosen from the poll between Tiago, Adore and Civet.

Ford India stops production of Figo, Classic and Fiesta

Ford India is in the process of revamping its product portfolio in India. The company is planning to introduce a number of new models and pull out some old ones. It has stopped the production of the Figo hatchback and the Classic and Fiesta sedans.

The first model from the fresh range, the Figo Aspire, has just been launched, a new Figo and Endeavour as well as the Mustang are next in line to enter the Indian market over the next few months.

The new Figo is likely to hit the market by the end of this month or the beginning of October, followed the new Endeavour premium SUV.

The commuter motorbike I dream about

I like it for commanding upright riding position and the built-in storage compartment in the faux fuel tank that can easily swallow a full-face helmet. The wide handlebars allow you to throw the bike wherever it’s needed, while its slim profile is great for splitting lanes (if you’re in California, anyway). As an added bonus, the NC returns excellent fuel mileage, and optional luggage provides ample room for groceries, though we’d opt for just the top case for commuting duties.

Perhaps the Honda’s biggest strong suit, however, is its optional second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). With it, you have the option to shift at the press of a button, or not shift at all and let the bike handle it for you. If slogging through the city congestion sounds like a chore from all the shifting and clutching involved, this option should be particularly appealing. Those looking for more of a feet-forward riding experience could also consider Honda’s new CTX700.

Everyone who rides an NC is taken by surprise at the low redline -- just 6,500 rpm -- but once you adapt to a power curve that's more diesel car than high-revving bike by short shifting and using the higher gears at low speed, the 46 pound-feet of torque is more than enough to achieve some serious hustle. Combined with the soft-but-capable suspension, it makes it possible to really wring some serious speed out of the bike on a canyon road.

[via www.motorcycle.com]

Is it end of Tata Nano story?

So is it curtains for Tata Nano? the cheapest car, celebrated as manufacturing marvel.  Nano is still the cutest looking car, providing better interior space than Suzuki's largest selling Alto.

The news that Tata will introduce another small car next year code named Pelican, bigger than Nano but based on same platform.  Pelican will come with two different engine options 1000cc petrol and 800cc Diesel. It will compete with Alto and Hyundai Eon both selling good in Indian markets.

Pelican will share the production infrastructure at Sanand, Gujarat where a capacity of 20000 is used to manufacture only 1300 Nanos per month due to low demand.  In recent years Tata is loosing market share in India and Nano suffered the overall image along with effects of Tata Motors brand equity in auto sector.

Bajaj Pulsar Evolution

This is artistic rendering of Bajaj Pulsar (from motoroids.com) latest version due to be launched in September 2011, they might call it Pulsar UG V, if it is carried forward from the legacy.

As per the motoroids article it is a totally reworked chassis and new engine with fatter rubber. The new machine sports monoshock also.

Toyota Scion iQ a tiny EV

Toyota launched, The Scion iQ, a micro subcompact EV car on 29th June 2011 at the automaker's annual dealer meeting in Vegas. The quiet, though far from specific launch announcement frees this 100 km-per-charge roadster from its pre-production limbo. We saw it last March at the Geneva Motor Show, the Scion iQ had been put on indefinite hold while factory production in the carmaker's disaster-stricken homeland.

The Scion iQ with 200 cm wheelbase has a unique suspension, consisting of McPherson strut upfront and torsion beam at rear. It's overall length is 305 cm and width is 168 cm.

Although small in size is equipped with security features like ABS (anti-lock breaking system), Vehicle Stability Control, EBD (Electronic Break Force Distribution), BA (Break Assist) and TRAC (Traction Control).

Scion iQ is equipped with 1.3 litre 4 cylinder engine which produces over 90 horse power, it features the latest dual VVTi. Engine is mated with CVT (Continuous variable transmission) which ensures smooth acceleration and great fuel efficiency.

The car comes with six speaker audio system.

Piaggio NT3 concept

At Eicma 2010 Piaggio Group of Italy introduces the NT3 Concept. An extraordinarily innovative vehicle, designed to meet mobility needs in areas with the highest development rates, specifically in India, Vietnam and South East Asia. Can we see competitor for Tata Nano here, if the concept converts to reality soon?

NT3 is a compact, safe, flexible, manoeuvrable and attractive vehicle as well as being highly competitive thanks to its contained costs.

The Piaggio NT3 Concept can have three different engines.

The 200cc engine is characterised by significantly reduced costs of operation, consumption and polluting emissions.

The 300cc engine, based on the consolidated technology of the Piaggio Mp3 three-wheeled scooter, provides brilliant performance in the internal combustion 300cc version.

The 300 hybrid engine version integrates – as with the new Piaggio Mp3 300 Hybrid – the traditional low environmental impact internal-combustion powertrain with the zero emissions electric powertrain with performance equal to the 300cc internal combustion (80 km/hour max speed) and a speed of 30 km/hour in the ZEV "electric only" mode.

Concept NT3: key characteristics

- Compact size: thanks to a length of only 2.4 metres, NT3 moves about easily in traffic and is easy to park.

- Load capacity: In the people carrier version, optimisation of the spaces guarantees full accommodations for three people thanks to the innovative three seat configuration with centre driving position.

- Safety: NT3 is conceived around a space frame structure with crash box in order to guarantee maximum protection of the occupants.

- Economy: more than 30 km with one litre of fuel.

- Respect for the environment: the reduced weight allows consumption and emissions to be contained. NT3 can be available with high efficiency and low emissions power drives, including hybrid Piaggio HyS technology.

- Modular: NT3 is a vehicle conceived to allow various transport solutions, such to configure a complete and diversified range of products.

Incentive for electric vehicles

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Govt. Of India has announced a great incentive program to promote the development and sales of Electric Vehicles In India. As per the incentive scheme declared, Govt. has decided to provide a 20% rebate on the ex-factory price of the electric vehicles. This will mean that there will be a drop of Rs. 4000 in the price of low-speed electric two-wheelers. This rebate will be about Rs. 5000 for high speed two-wheelers. For a seven seater three wheeler passenger vehicle, it will be Rs. 60,000 of rebate and about Rs. 1 Lakh for an electric car. In total, Govt. will provide financial incentives of about Rs. 95 Crores. Owing this these rebates, the Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) expects a growth of about 100% in electric-vehicle sales in the near future.

Happy with this decision, SMEV director Sohinder Gill quotes

“This could have an immediate impact on sales of electric two-wheelers. In terms of monthly sales, we expect an immediate doubling of sales. We have convened a meeting of our members this week to see how quickly we can pass on the benefits to consumers. Although these incentives are for manufacturers to carry out R&D activities and to increase capacities, we will surely pass on partial benefits to the buyers.”

Hyundai Nano competitor - Green Baby (GB)

According to Mr. Kil Chun, Hyundai Motors Senior VP for its Asia and Pacific Division, Hyundai already has a similar micro car as Tata Nano under development and that is destined to hit the Asian markets in 2011.

The new Hyundai GB micro car will likely be powered by a 0.8 or 1.0L gasoline engine, but there will also be a small diesel engine developed specially for the European market. Unlike Tata Nano, the all-new new Hyundai GB will feature all of the up-to-date safety equippment and will also satisfy latest European emission standards!

2010 Bajaj Pulsar in showrooms

The 2010 version or UG 4.5 of Bajaj Pulsar is in showrooms. The clip on handle bars are common across entire Pulsar range right from 135LS to 220 FI now.

The 150 Dts-i engine will now produce 15.06 ps which is slightly more than the current mill producing 14.09 ps. The increase in power will result in better performance justifying Pulsar as a ‘performance’ brand by Bajaj. The bike will use a bigger 29 mm (UCD 29) carburettor and redesigned in intake system which will add to the performance.

The bike will be dearer by Rs. 500 than the earlier avatars of the same.

Maruti Eeco a redesigned Versa replacing Omni

Maruti Suzuki has launched the much talked about Omni replacement Eeco at Auto Expo 2010. Maruti has come up with three variants of the car – 5 seater standard, 5 seater AC standard and 7 seater standard. The starting price of the Maruti Eeco model is Rs. 2.59 lakh. The 5-seater AC model is rated at Rs. 2.85 lakh whereas the 7-standard’s rate is Rs. 2.79 lakh.

Maruti Eeco will be powered by 1200 cc petrol engine passing Bharat IV emission norms. The engine which produce 73bhp of raw power at 6000rpm and a high torque of 101Nm@3000rpm. Maruti Suzuki incoporated its latest engine management system in this engine. The high-pressure-injection system combined with optimized injectors produces better atomization resulting in low emissions and fuel consumption.

The van is basically redesigned Versa with overall height lowered by 100mm.

Nissan Small Car to compete Tata Nano

Other than Bajaj-Renault small car, Nissan is also planning to introduce their low cost car on V platform. Nissan's low cost car will be launched simultaneously in India, China and Thialand.
All these cars will be direct competition to Tata Nano. Tata's obviously has the huge lead over them as the these cars will coming late to market atleast one year from launch of Nano.

The Nissan V will feature a 3-cylinder diesel or gasoline engine, just an 11-gallon (41-liter) fuel tank and highly-engineered plastic in place of less cost- and fuel-efficient steel and aluminium.

The hatchback model will be released in March 2010, with a sedan and CUV model in 2011. The car will be sold in Europe and the US in 2011, eventually reaching nearly 150 countries.

Tata Motors launches Indigo Manza

Tata Motors has launched the three box sedan based on Indiva Vista platform. The production of Indigo will be stopped but Marina, XL and Indigo CS will be there.

The new Manza will challenge Maruti Suzuki Dezire feature to feature and price to price. Obviously Tata has priced it very competative with lots of goodies like Blue5, ABC, Twin Air Bags.

Price and specification of different variants are as following:

Diesel Quadrajet Aqua: 6.46 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Diesel Quadrajet Aura: 6.79 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Diesel Quadrajet Aura (ABS): 7.13 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Diesel Quadrajet Aura⁺: 7.64 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Petrol Safire Aqua: 5.47 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Petrol Safire Aura: 5.86 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Petrol Safire Aura (ABS): 6.13 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai
Petrol Safire Aura⁺: 6.68 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)

Features:

Aqua:
HVAC - with electronic controls, Power Steering - adjustable for tilt, Power Windows (Fr), Folding Rear Seat, 2-DIN MP3 Music System (no USB) with 4 speakers + 2 tweeters, Fabric Seats, Tachometer, Light intensity adjustment for Instrument console, Tinted Glass, Steel Rims, Central Locking, Rear Centre Armrest.

Aura:
Features of Aqua + Power Windows (Rear), Steering Mounted Audio Controls, Bluetooth Connectivity, USB slot, IR input, Audio Remote Control, Driver Information System with Instantaneous Fuel Consumption Indicator & Distance to Empty Readout, Body Coluored Door Handles, Rear Defogger, Fog Lamps (Fr), Passenger Side Rear Veiw Mirror.

Aura (ABS):
Features of Aura + 2-way adjustable Lumbar Support (Fr), Height adjustable Driver's Seat, Illuminating ring around keyhole, Fog Lamps (Rear), Keyless Entry, Seatbelt warning, and ofcourse ABS.

Aura⁺:
Features of Aura (ABS) + Chrome inserts on Rub-rails and Door Handles, Electronically controlled Rear Veiw Mirrors. No Alloys even for the top-end variant.

Specifications:
Engines:
Quadrajet⁹⁰ (Diesel, Common Rail), 1248cc, 4-cylinder, 90PS@4000rpm, 200Nm@1750-3000rpm.
Safire⁹⁰ (Petrol, MPFi), 1368cc, 90PS@6000rpm, 4-cylinder, 116Nm@4750rpm.

Tyres: 185/60 R15 Tubeless Radials
Dimensions: 4413x1703x1550 (mm)
Wheelbase: 2520mm
Ground Clearance: 165mm
Boot-space: 460 litres
Kerb weight: 1115 (Petrol), 1200 (Diesel)
Fuel tank: 44 litres
Turning circle diameter: 10.2 m

Honda Jazz launched

Honda launched it's premium hatch named Jazz today. The spacious hatch comes with only one engine option of 1.2 ltr petrol, with fuel efficiency of 16 KMPL according to ARAI tests. It will be priced around 7 lakhs here.

The car has been launched in three variants - the Basic Jazz carries a price tag of Rs 6.98 lakh. The Jazz Mode variant is the family utility version with body side mouldings, corner protectors to prevent parking scratches, mud flaps and funky lit-up garnishes on the side step and will retain for Rs 7.28 lakh. The top-end Jazz Active is the sporty variant of the hatch with sport pedals, body coloured front grille, fog lamps and a smart spoiler at the top of the tailgate. This variant has been priced at Rs 7.33 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

Tata Nano Launched

Tata Nano has been launched yesterday at Parsi Gymkhana, Marine Drives, Mumbai.

Bookings will commence from April 9 to 23, 2009 at State Bank, Chroma shops and select Tata Dealers. The forms will be charged Rs. 300 and need to be submitted duly filled by one week.

The booking amount is Rs. 2999 and booking is accepted for first 100,000 cars which will be delivered from July for the year. Deliveries will be made on lottery system and those who can't get their cars by an year will be paid 8.5 % of interest on booking amount.

The car will be launched in three variants priced in the range Rs. 1.23-1.7 lakhs, nano base, nano CX mid level and nano LX top end. The top end is equipped with AC and all other creature comfirts in a modern car.