A View Inside Triumph's Factories

By now you all know of one of my favorite British car web sites - Austin Rover Online. There's a wealth of information about the BL period covering the cars we know and love. It's worth looking in on every once in a while as there's lots of new additions and blog postings.

Here is a neat page showing various Triumphs in production in modern, hi-tech (for the time) assembly plants. The cars were probably already rusting as the photos were taken.

My Mother Probably Would!

Here's another UK print ad for an MG product, this time for the beloved Midget. I had a high school classmate that drove a Midget identical to the one in this ad (except for the right hand drive aspect). It's been years since I've ridden in a Midget, but I distinctly remember how sobering it was to view the underside of the trailer of an 18-wheel rig from that car.

MG used the "Your mother wouldn't like it" slogan for the MGB as well although the young lady in the MGB ad seemed to be suffering from a lack upper undergarment. I'm sure my mother wouldn't like that.

Happy Christmas to All!

Let me extend my sincerest Christmas wishes to all SABCC'ers and British car enthusiasts who look in on these humble scribblings. May this be the best holiday season ever for you and yours!



Image courtesy of mgcars.org.uk

Return of the Moke?

MINI has unveiled it's new concept car - the MINI Beachcomber. Based on the slated for production MINI Countryman crossover vehicle, the Beachcomber is supposedly a modern interpretation of the Mini Moke. While there are a few design cues from the original Moke, I'll leave it up to you to decide how well the designers did with the project.

Raiders of the Lost Spark

Most of you know that in addition to the Mini that I write about so often, I have a 1976 MGB. I've been the custodian of the car since 1997 and in that time I've done quite a bit to the old girl. When I got it, it was in a less than glamorous state. Today, it's a cleaned up driver - certainly no show stopper - but it usually puts a smile in my face.

I've been fighting a nagging ignition problem for several years, with the latest fix being the installation of a Pertronix ignition system. That move seemed to be the cure to the malady. The old MG started easily and had more go to its' get up. Then, one Sunday morning as I was going out for a drive, the car started running on three cylinders. I made a few half-hearted attempts to find the problem (I suspected an issue with the Pertronix system), but I mothballed her until I could find time to focus on the problem.

I was off work this week (a 'use or lose it' policy at the job) and with the gentle prodding of Richard Cunningham and Mike Darby, I seriously began to look into the problem. Richard dropped by the house and we started looking at the usual suspects.

The Pertronix system is dead simple. They told me via email that the only way one cylinder would misfire would be if one of the magnets that trigger the Hall Effect sensor was missing. All present and accounted for.

We swapped ignition leads with no apparent good result. The number three spark plug was wet, but that was to be expected in a dead cylinder.

The distributor cap appeared to be in good order - no burning of the contacts or obvious cracks could be found.

We decided to break for lunch and afterwards we dropped in on the Wizard of Silverhill, Mike Darby with the cap and leads. Mike took the diagnosis a bit deeper and pulled the ignition leads off the cap. Two of them were out of contact with the cap - the copper lead ends were close enough to conduct the current, but it was weak. The arcing burned the cap and melted the lead ends into the rubber boot. Problem found?

Mike rummaged around his stock of used-but-serviceable parts and found a good dizzy cap with tested leads. He made me a bargain-basement deal and Richard and I departed to try out the new-old parts.

Back at the McDonald garage, we installed the cap, sorted out the leads and started the old girl up. Three cylinders. Richard had an appointment to keep and, on departure, suggested that I swap leads around to see if I could isolate the problem. I did - no joy. Feeling bummed out, I went in the house, bypassed the liquor cabinet and headed to the computer to see if I could find similar stories but with happier endings.

Mike called to see how things were progressing. On hearing the tale of woe, he asked if I had taken the next step and swapped spark plugs around to see if the misfire followed the plug. Erm, no, I hadn't.

Taking his advice, I moved number three plug (the apparent dead cylinder) to number four and vice versa. Started her up and bingo - number four is now misfiring. It is a bad spark plug. I called Mike to relay the good news and then left to run errands with my long-suffering wife. We dropped by a local auto parts store and left with four new sparkies.

I waited until later in the evening and went to gap and install the plugs. Two of the four were missing gaskets. Damn.

The next morning, B&E, I went back to the same parts store with all four plugs and showed them the problem. The young lady at the counter opened two more spark plug boxes and removed the gaskets for me. Anyone wanna bet where the two now - gasketless spark plugs went?

Back under the bonnet of the MGB, the spark plugs were snugged home and I started her up. The little four banger was again banging on all four and I took her out for a drive through the neighborhood streets. I found that my old friend was just as happy to be on the road as I was.

The lesson here is to diagnose fully. Start at the beginning and work your way methodically through the system proving every component along the way.

Thanks, Richard and Mike for your advice and expertise! Now to adjust the Mini's brakes again.

Force India to get assistance in aerodynamics from CRL

Force India has signed a three year agreement with Computational Research Laboratories (CRL) owned by Tata Sons for developing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solutions. The CFD solutions get utilized in the designing of F1 cars. According to the terms of the agreement Force India will be entitled to a High Performance Computing ecosystem including hardware and application support to customized configurations.


Developing CFD designs for F1 cars is a very complicated process which requires the usage of very high computing powers in order to come up with absolutely correct results. Apart from engine power the aerodynamics play an important role in enhancing the overall performance of the car making it go faster.


Going through the various CFD solutions allows engineers to understand the various airflow patterns by viewing the ways in which air flows around the car virtually. This helps the engineers to set up an aerodynamically efficient car. The designs will now be developed and processed on Eka which is currently our country's fastest supercomputer which is also ranked as the fourth fastest computer in the world in 2007.

Speaking to the media after the fomal agreement was signed, Dr.Vijay Mallya, Force India owner and liquor baron said that the team needed the speed and accuracy of a supercomputer to develop its car as the performance of racing cars get measured in one-hundredth of a second. He further said that we are happy to have found a partner right here in India and this partnership with CRL will help us access the best of technology at a much lesser cost.He admitted that Force India always had tremendous straightline speed but the problem area were the turns and curves. Mallya is hoping his team to overcome that problem with CRL's high speed computing strength.

This deal with CRL will reduce the time taken by Force India team in aerodynamically enhancing its cars as the simulations will now be developed by a supercomputer. Basically engineers get a two week gap before the next race to sort out the car's problems. If the CFD designs are developed by a supercomputer in a short time then the guys get more time to play around with the other issues of the car like tyre worries, engine or gearbox issues etc.

When questioned by the media about the possibility of an Indian driver in the Force India team, Mallya first asked the reporters why the particular question is always their primary focus. He then calmly said that the possibility of an Indian driving for Force India can come true only by virtue of a systematized program. He admit that a mission to find people is on.


Voicing his opinion about that the continual flak that he and his team faces for not having an Indian driver on board, Mallya commented that had he done something rash like allowing an Indian to drive with an incapable then also he would have come under major criticism.

Force India to get assistance in aerodynamics from CRL

Force India has signed a three year agreement with Computational Research Laboratories (CRL) owned by Tata Sons for developing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solutions. The CFD solutions get utilized in the designing of F1 cars. According to the terms of the agreement Force India will be entitled to a High Performance Computing ecosystem including hardware and application support to customized configurations.


Developing CFD designs for F1 cars is a very complicated process which requires the usage of very high computing powers in order to come up with absolutely correct results. Apart from engine power the aerodynamics play an important role in enhancing the overall performance of the car making it go faster.


Going through the various CFD solutions allows engineers to understand the various airflow patterns by viewing the ways in which air flows around the car virtually. This helps the engineers to set up an aerodynamically efficient car. The designs will now be developed and processed on Eka which is currently our country's fastest supercomputer which is also ranked as the fourth fastest computer in the world in 2007.

Speaking to the media after the fomal agreement was signed, Dr.Vijay Mallya, Force India owner and liquor baron said that the team needed the speed and accuracy of a supercomputer to develop its car as the performance of racing cars get measured in one-hundredth of a second. He further said that we are happy to have found a partner right here in India and this partnership with CRL will help us access the best of technology at a much lesser cost.He admitted that Force India always had tremendous straightline speed but the problem area were the turns and curves. Mallya is hoping his team to overcome that problem with CRL's high speed computing strength.

This deal with CRL will reduce the time taken by Force India team in aerodynamically enhancing its cars as the simulations will now be developed by a supercomputer. Basically engineers get a two week gap before the next race to sort out the car's problems. If the CFD designs are developed by a supercomputer in a short time then the guys get more time to play around with the other issues of the car like tyre worries, engine or gearbox issues etc.

When questioned by the media about the possibility of an Indian driver in the Force India team, Mallya first asked the reporters why the particular question is always their primary focus. He then calmly said that the possibility of an Indian driving for Force India can come true only by virtue of a systematized program. He admit that a mission to find people is on.


Voicing his opinion about that the continual flak that he and his team faces for not having an Indian driver on board, Mallya commented that had he done something rash like allowing an Indian to drive with an incapable then also he would have come under major criticism.

GM India to showcase 6 vehicles

General Motors India will display six productiona and concept vehicles at the upcoming Auto Expo to be held at Pragati Maidan between 5th and 11th of January, 2010. The six cars which will be showcased includes the Hybrid Option Volt, the Sports Car Chevrolet Camaro, WTCC Cruze, Captiva Extreme, Spark Electric and Aveo CNG. GM's latest entry, the Chevrolet Beat and some of the existing models like the Chevrolet Cruze, Tavera, Optra, Aveo U-UA and the Spark will also join in, with the new models at the ramp.

Commenting on the display of vehicles, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, General Motors India said, "The Auto Expo in Delhi is the most ideal platform in India to highlight our new product range that will showcase GM’s technological advancement and innovation. The theme of our stall entitled "Inspiration to advance" will have Chevrolet brand of vehicles displayed under three categories like Performance series, Mini series and the Green series. The recently launched Chevrolet Cruze, Optra Magnum, alongside a special preview of the Captiva Extreme will set the tone, with their inspirational technology, which has been modified to suit the Indian roads. The World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) Cruze will also be something to look forward to. The research and the technical knowhow exhibited through the demonstration of Cruze and beat engines at the stall alongside the vehicles will connote the brands promise to deliver world class service inspired by technology.

 Making the green statement will be the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Spark- LPG, all new Aveo CNG and Spark Electric prototype which is scheduled to make its commercial launch later this year. The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle with extended-range capability. It is designed to drive up to 40 miles on electricity without using gasoline or producing tail-pipe emissions. Also on display would be the fun, efficient and the 21st century sports car- The Chevrolet Camaro, which has recently been launched globally.

GM India to showcase 6 vehicles

General Motors India will display six productiona and concept vehicles at the upcoming Auto Expo to be held at Pragati Maidan between 5th and 11th of January, 2010. The six cars which will be showcased includes the Hybrid Option Volt, the Sports Car Chevrolet Camaro, WTCC Cruze, Captiva Extreme, Spark Electric and Aveo CNG. GM's latest entry, the Chevrolet Beat and some of the existing models like the Chevrolet Cruze, Tavera, Optra, Aveo U-UA and the Spark will also join in, with the new models at the ramp.

Commenting on the display of vehicles, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, General Motors India said, "The Auto Expo in Delhi is the most ideal platform in India to highlight our new product range that will showcase GM’s technological advancement and innovation. The theme of our stall entitled "Inspiration to advance" will have Chevrolet brand of vehicles displayed under three categories like Performance series, Mini series and the Green series. The recently launched Chevrolet Cruze, Optra Magnum, alongside a special preview of the Captiva Extreme will set the tone, with their inspirational technology, which has been modified to suit the Indian roads. The World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) Cruze will also be something to look forward to. The research and the technical knowhow exhibited through the demonstration of Cruze and beat engines at the stall alongside the vehicles will connote the brands promise to deliver world class service inspired by technology.

 Making the green statement will be the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Spark- LPG, all new Aveo CNG and Spark Electric prototype which is scheduled to make its commercial launch later this year. The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle with extended-range capability. It is designed to drive up to 40 miles on electricity without using gasoline or producing tail-pipe emissions. Also on display would be the fun, efficient and the 21st century sports car- The Chevrolet Camaro, which has recently been launched globally.

Nissan confirms 370Z launch In Jan 2010!

Yes! The news is official. Nissan Motor India has formally announced that it will be launching the 370Z in the country next month. The company will be launching the car in India through the conventional CBU route.

Speaking to the media, Suresh Rangarajan, spokesperson for Nissan, said that the 370Z will be introduced in India from January and shall be third in the series of fully imported cars launched here after the X-Trail and Teana. He also said that the company has plans to introduce a fourth model in India through the CBU route but is yet to finalise the model. He did not reveal any details about the pricing of its sports coupe.

According to Kiminobu Tokuyama, CEO and Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, Nissan has a global market share of 5.67% and targets to achieve 5.5% market share in India within 3-5 years post the launch of its upcomming plant in Chennai. He further said that the plant is expected to up and running by May 2010.

When quizzed further about how Nissan intends to utilize its Chennai plant, Tokuyama said that the facility shall initially be manufacturing premium hatchback cars in the B+ segment and shall be the hub for global sourcing. He also confirmed that Nissan has taken a decision to end production of its small car Micra at its manufacturinf facility in UK and shift its production at the upcomming Chennai plant.

Nissan is also increasing its dealership network in the country. It recently unvieled a new dealership outlet in Gujrat increasing its total count in India to nine.

Nissan confirms 370Z launch In Jan 2010!

Yes! The news is official. Nissan Motor India has formally announced that it will be launching the 370Z in the country next month. The company will be launching the car in India through the conventional CBU route.

Speaking to the media, Suresh Rangarajan, spokesperson for Nissan, said that the 370Z will be introduced in India from January and shall be third in the series of fully imported cars launched here after the X-Trail and Teana. He also said that the company has plans to introduce a fourth model in India through the CBU route but is yet to finalise the model. He did not reveal any details about the pricing of its sports coupe.

According to Kiminobu Tokuyama, CEO and Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, Nissan has a global market share of 5.67% and targets to achieve 5.5% market share in India within 3-5 years post the launch of its upcomming plant in Chennai. He further said that the plant is expected to up and running by May 2010.

When quizzed further about how Nissan intends to utilize its Chennai plant, Tokuyama said that the facility shall initially be manufacturing premium hatchback cars in the B+ segment and shall be the hub for global sourcing. He also confirmed that Nissan has taken a decision to end production of its small car Micra at its manufacturinf facility in UK and shift its production at the upcomming Chennai plant.

Nissan is also increasing its dealership network in the country. It recently unvieled a new dealership outlet in Gujrat increasing its total count in India to nine.

Nano Europa Details Revealed

What you see here in the photos is the comprehensively spruced-up version of the world’s cheapest car the Tata Nano. The Indian spec Nano is far too basic for developed markets like Europe. Hence Tata will give it a bunch of upgrades before its expected debut in 2011. Judging by the fact that maximum demand for Nano in India has been for the top end variant, Tata will most probably launch it in the home market as well.

The Europa is expected to retail for a base price of £4000 (Rs. 3.2 lakh) and upwards in the UK. It will be powered by a 60 bhp, 1-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine coupled to a 5 speed manual gearbox. It will feature an all-steel body, an all-independent rear suspension, ABS, traction control, electric power steering and twin airbags, to make it compliant with Europe’s stringent safety norms. The Europa might also get a rear door hatch to take care of the practicality issues. Back home, it will go head on against age-old rivals like the Alto, the Santro and the Spark. Stay tuned for more details…

Nano Europa Details Revealed

What you see here in the photos is the comprehensively spruced-up version of the world’s cheapest car the Tata Nano. The Indian spec Nano is far too basic for developed markets like Europe. Hence Tata will give it a bunch of upgrades before its expected debut in 2011. Judging by the fact that maximum demand for Nano in India has been for the top end variant, Tata will most probably launch it in the home market as well.

The Europa is expected to retail for a base price of £4000 (Rs. 3.2 lakh) and upwards in the UK. It will be powered by a 60 bhp, 1-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine coupled to a 5 speed manual gearbox. It will feature an all-steel body, an all-independent rear suspension, ABS, traction control, electric power steering and twin airbags, to make it compliant with Europe’s stringent safety norms. The Europa might also get a rear door hatch to take care of the practicality issues. Back home, it will go head on against age-old rivals like the Alto, the Santro and the Spark. Stay tuned for more details…

Get Smart

SABCC'ers of a certain age will remember the James Bond-spoofing TV series Get Smart. If it's been a while since you've seen an episode, check this YouTube video of the of the opening theme. What is ol' Maxwell Smart driving?



Then, Max must want a lower profile as he's traded in his British ride on this:



Finally, Max goes the GM route:

SABCC Christmas Party - We Eat & Eat Some More

Our annual Christmas party was today (Sunday) at the recently renovated Riverview Plaza hotel in downtown Mobile. Nearly 40 club members were present and there were several others who wanted to attend but for various reasons could not.

The ever-faithful Sandy Walter was at the room entrance making her list, checking it twice and collecting money for the meal. A supply of name tags was on the registration table for those of us who left our official SABCC name badges at home. I selected 'Tondeleo Jones' as my name for the day.

Club President Noel Eagleson warmly greeted everyone and requested that Jack Ross ask for a blessing on the food. The amens were said at almost the same time the line formed at the buffet. As expected, the food was top rate. Breakfast items as well as more hearty meat and potatoes were on the board to feed the hungry bunch.

After everyone made their way through the line a few more times Noel called us to order and presented a check to the club's selected charity for 2009. The Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama, represented by their Executive Director Mary Zoghby, received nearly $1,400.00 from the activities of British Car Festival last October. Ms. Zoghby graciously accepted the funds and spoke briefly about the mission of Boys and Girls Clubs in the area.

After the presentation of the charity check, Noel proceeded to hand out awards for the year:

Sam Walter - Suffering Spouse
Robb Ogletree - 'Safety Fast' Award
Jeremiah Cronk - Grillmaster Award
Sandy Walter - Perfect Attendance
Michael King - Rookie of the Year
Mike Darby - Member of the Year

The obligatory group photos were taken near one of the many Christmas (note: I did not say holiday) trees in the public spaces of the Riverview Plaza.

The club owes a debt of thanks to Sandy Walter who organized the day.

Volkswagen-Suzuki to develop Alto replacement

Its only been a day since Volkswagen bought a stake in Suzuki but both companies have already started planning about how to make their partnership favourable for each other. Volkswagen-Suzuki is planning to launch a replacement for the Alto apart from developing small cars in the $4000-5000 range for the Indian and European markets.

Speaking to the media, R.C. Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki, said that the company will need a car in the Rs. 2.5 lakh price range. He admitted that earlier it had the 800 and now the Alto but at some point a replacement will be needed for the Alto. He also said that the above price range comprises the entry-level segment for Indian car buyers and they can't ignore that segment.



Volkswagen is likely to launch its hatchback Polo in the country at the upcomming Auto Expo in January. Both the companies are also chalking out plans to develop electric and small cars for India and Europe which will be launched under both brands. They are specifically looking at developing a new car in the $4500 price range. Currently, the cheapest offering from the Volkswagen stables for Europe is the Up which retails for under $9000.
 
The spokesperson for Volkswagen, Fabian Mannecke, told the media that Volkswagen will be greatly interested in a car below the price segment of the Up and it is something that they will need to check in their future together with Suzuki.

Suzuki is interested in sourcing diesel engine technology from Volkswagen. Suzuki lacks behind other manufacturers in terms of diesel engines and currently sources the engines powering its cars from Fiat. The companies are also looking at developing common platforms for their future cars.

Volkswagen-Suzuki to develop Alto replacement

Its only been a day since Volkswagen bought a stake in Suzuki but both companies have already started planning about how to make their partnership favourable for each other. Volkswagen-Suzuki is planning to launch a replacement for the Alto apart from developing small cars in the $4000-5000 range for the Indian and European markets.

Speaking to the media, R.C. Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki, said that the company will need a car in the Rs. 2.5 lakh price range. He admitted that earlier it had the 800 and now the Alto but at some point a replacement will be needed for the Alto. He also said that the above price range comprises the entry-level segment for Indian car buyers and they can't ignore that segment.



Volkswagen is likely to launch its hatchback Polo in the country at the upcomming Auto Expo in January. Both the companies are also chalking out plans to develop electric and small cars for India and Europe which will be launched under both brands. They are specifically looking at developing a new car in the $4500 price range. Currently, the cheapest offering from the Volkswagen stables for Europe is the Up which retails for under $9000.
 
The spokesperson for Volkswagen, Fabian Mannecke, told the media that Volkswagen will be greatly interested in a car below the price segment of the Up and it is something that they will need to check in their future together with Suzuki.

Suzuki is interested in sourcing diesel engine technology from Volkswagen. Suzuki lacks behind other manufacturers in terms of diesel engines and currently sources the engines powering its cars from Fiat. The companies are also looking at developing common platforms for their future cars.

VW now owns $2.5 billion Suzuki stake

The world’s third largest auto giant known to us by the name of Volkswagen is all set to grow a bit bigger after the company reached a common understanding to establish a close long term strategic partnership. A framework has been signed today by representatives of both the companies today. The firm had already publicized its intentions to be the world’s No.1 auto giant with its team of 10 brands which include Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche and many more. The firm’s step will however be a give and take relationship between the German and Japanese firms. With this move, Suzuki will avail technological advances and Volkswagen will get better access and exposure into the small-car segment. According to a source with direct VW connections, the firm’s stake can easily rise to more than one-third in the future. The sources also added that the 20% stake would be worth about 250 billion yen ($2.80 billion) at current prices.



About six months ago, VW had revealed its interest in Suzuki due to its experience and dominance in the small-car segment. The move would also help VW to achieve its goal to be No.1 with the small-car segment being a key segment of competition in the present and future markets. On the other hand, Suzuki had announced that it would be very much happy to strike any sensible partnership. Before this announcement, Suzuki had lost its ties to General Motors Co. The Japanese firm initially took the GM support in the field of hybrid and next-generation technology. The firm, with the recent tie-up hopes to borrow Suzuki’s know-how for the development of s minicar platform for the Up! concept car.


Suzuki has well established its dominance in the Indian Market through “Maruti Suzuki”. On the other hand, it also dominates the unique 660cc minivehicles segment which is prevalent in its motherland, Japan. The firm is reported to have a market capitalization of $13.7 billion as compared to Volkswagen’s $45.7 billion. But however, Suzuki has been holding 20 percent of itself in treasury stock which it had bought back from GM during the years 2006 to 2008.


Volkswagen’s tie-up with Suzuki has not produced any kind of wave of surprise across the automotive industry. But however, the industry was left baffled after Suzuki Chief Executive Osamu Suzuki denied any talks of a tie-up just a month ago.

VW now owns $2.5 billion Suzuki stake

The world’s third largest auto giant known to us by the name of Volkswagen is all set to grow a bit bigger after the company reached a common understanding to establish a close long term strategic partnership. A framework has been signed today by representatives of both the companies today. The firm had already publicized its intentions to be the world’s No.1 auto giant with its team of 10 brands which include Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche and many more. The firm’s step will however be a give and take relationship between the German and Japanese firms. With this move, Suzuki will avail technological advances and Volkswagen will get better access and exposure into the small-car segment. According to a source with direct VW connections, the firm’s stake can easily rise to more than one-third in the future. The sources also added that the 20% stake would be worth about 250 billion yen ($2.80 billion) at current prices.



About six months ago, VW had revealed its interest in Suzuki due to its experience and dominance in the small-car segment. The move would also help VW to achieve its goal to be No.1 with the small-car segment being a key segment of competition in the present and future markets. On the other hand, Suzuki had announced that it would be very much happy to strike any sensible partnership. Before this announcement, Suzuki had lost its ties to General Motors Co. The Japanese firm initially took the GM support in the field of hybrid and next-generation technology. The firm, with the recent tie-up hopes to borrow Suzuki’s know-how for the development of s minicar platform for the Up! concept car.


Suzuki has well established its dominance in the Indian Market through “Maruti Suzuki”. On the other hand, it also dominates the unique 660cc minivehicles segment which is prevalent in its motherland, Japan. The firm is reported to have a market capitalization of $13.7 billion as compared to Volkswagen’s $45.7 billion. But however, Suzuki has been holding 20 percent of itself in treasury stock which it had bought back from GM during the years 2006 to 2008.


Volkswagen’s tie-up with Suzuki has not produced any kind of wave of surprise across the automotive industry. But however, the industry was left baffled after Suzuki Chief Executive Osamu Suzuki denied any talks of a tie-up just a month ago.

GM wants India to drive volumes

General Motors is planning to grab a larger pie of the Indian car market by expanding its product portfolio and entering new sgments. The American auto major has recently launched it's new saloon Cruze at a competetive price which is also the only diesel powered car in its segment. It is just weeks away from unveiling its small car for India- 'Chevrolet Beat'. The company has also stated earlier that it looking into the possibility of entering the light commercial vehicle segment by launching a few products from its Chinese partner Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation's (SAIC) stables.



According to Karl Slym, President, GM India, the company is expecting to end 2009 with sales of around 70,000 units. Revealing the company's future strategy, he said that they expect to cross sales of one lakh units in 2010 while their target is to cross 2 lakh units in 2012.



General Motors has its eyes set on India to help itself successfully recover from the economic slowdown. The company is expecting India and China whose markets are still growing to drive up volumes. Owing to its tie-up with SAIC, GM is in a comfortable position in China and wants to concentrate on India. Well, as long as GM launches good cars people will buy them increasing sales. Otherwise the manufacturer will remain in its current state. Best of Luck GM!

GM wants India to drive volumes

General Motors is planning to grab a larger pie of the Indian car market by expanding its product portfolio and entering new sgments. The American auto major has recently launched it's new saloon Cruze at a competetive price which is also the only diesel powered car in its segment. It is just weeks away from unveiling its small car for India- 'Chevrolet Beat'. The company has also stated earlier that it looking into the possibility of entering the light commercial vehicle segment by launching a few products from its Chinese partner Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation's (SAIC) stables.



According to Karl Slym, President, GM India, the company is expecting to end 2009 with sales of around 70,000 units. Revealing the company's future strategy, he said that they expect to cross sales of one lakh units in 2010 while their target is to cross 2 lakh units in 2012.



General Motors has its eyes set on India to help itself successfully recover from the economic slowdown. The company is expecting India and China whose markets are still growing to drive up volumes. Owing to its tie-up with SAIC, GM is in a comfortable position in China and wants to concentrate on India. Well, as long as GM launches good cars people will buy them increasing sales. Otherwise the manufacturer will remain in its current state. Best of Luck GM!

It Pays to Drive Your British Car

The Panhandle Mini group planned a drive last Sunday that started in Pensacola and made its way through some of Baldwin County's back roads. They stopped at the Cracker Barrel restaurant in Spanish Fort for a late breakfast - that's where I met them in the classic Mini.

There were about 20 cars present and the hungry MINI drivers took up a LOT of tables in the eatery. Over breakfast, it was determined that Google Maps had provided some bad information. One turn had the caravan going down a dirt road instead of the new highway 181 extension. They asked me to lead them to the junction of Bromley Road where they could pick up the route they were looking for.

The little Mini lead the pack with speed I've never experienced in that car before. The cool morning air agreed with the 998CC engine and I was cruising at a steady 70 MPH while enjoying the gentle curves on highway 181. At the junction, I pointed the way that the group should take and I peeled off toward highway 225 and home.

When I arrived back at the McDonald homestead, I got my gear out of the back seat of the car. I noticed a coin in the floorboard and on close examination, it turned out to be a New Zealand 5 cent piece. Apparently it was lodged in the drivers seat and the enthusiastic driving shook it loose.

Photo courtesy J B Palladino

Rolls Royce for everyday use

Last week Rolls Royce launched the much talked about ‘Ghost’ super-luxury car, through its Mumbai dealership – Navnit Motors. The ‘Rolls Royce for everyday use’ is what the carmaker defines the Ghost as (sure!), is priced at Rs. 2.5-crore – quite economical, should you compare it to its elder sibling, the Phantom, which itself attracts a price tag of Rs. 5-crore. The launch comes in after almost a week of the Ghost’s launch in Delhi. And guess what, as the launch function was underway in Mumbai, the Delhi showroom had already accepted as many as 60 bookings for the Ghost – that’s the exact number of this model that Rolls Royce had allocated for India! Is our country progressing or what!?

A testimony to this fact comes straight from Collin Kelly’s (Asia Pacific Regional Director, Rolls Royce) mouth, as he was quotes “India will become one of the most important markets for the Ghost, as it is for Phantom in the Asia Pacific region. Rolls-Royce’s rich history in India, the brand’s return to the country in 2005 and strong economic growth has ensured that our business here has developed steadily.” The car, like most other Rolls Royce models will be made to order and for India the deliveries will commence by Q2 2010. With the allocated number of Ghosts for India already exhausted, Rolls Royce may soon need to jack up the production to meet the increasing demand in our progressing country!

Rolls Royce for everyday use

Last week Rolls Royce launched the much talked about ‘Ghost’ super-luxury car, through its Mumbai dealership – Navnit Motors. The ‘Rolls Royce for everyday use’ is what the carmaker defines the Ghost as (sure!), is priced at Rs. 2.5-crore – quite economical, should you compare it to its elder sibling, the Phantom, which itself attracts a price tag of Rs. 5-crore. The launch comes in after almost a week of the Ghost’s launch in Delhi. And guess what, as the launch function was underway in Mumbai, the Delhi showroom had already accepted as many as 60 bookings for the Ghost – that’s the exact number of this model that Rolls Royce had allocated for India! Is our country progressing or what!?

A testimony to this fact comes straight from Collin Kelly’s (Asia Pacific Regional Director, Rolls Royce) mouth, as he was quotes “India will become one of the most important markets for the Ghost, as it is for Phantom in the Asia Pacific region. Rolls-Royce’s rich history in India, the brand’s return to the country in 2005 and strong economic growth has ensured that our business here has developed steadily.” The car, like most other Rolls Royce models will be made to order and for India the deliveries will commence by Q2 2010. With the allocated number of Ghosts for India already exhausted, Rolls Royce may soon need to jack up the production to meet the increasing demand in our progressing country!

VW Launches Beetle and Touareg in India

Volkswagen recently announced the launch of its trademark car Beetle alongside its SUV Touareg. The cars are a little more expensive than their close competitors as they are brought in as CBU's to the country. However they are very elegant and special to drive, and most importantly they are made by VW which in itself adds much value to the machine.

The beetle costs just over 20 lakhs (ex-showroom delhi) and the Touareg around 52 lakhs.

VW Launches Beetle and Touareg in India

Volkswagen recently announced the launch of its trademark car Beetle alongside its SUV Touareg. The cars are a little more expensive than their close competitors as they are brought in as CBU's to the country. However they are very elegant and special to drive, and most importantly they are made by VW which in itself adds much value to the machine.

The beetle costs just over 20 lakhs (ex-showroom delhi) and the Touareg around 52 lakhs.

Well I Used to, Anyway

An MGB advert from the UK - about 1975.

Look who's coming to Auto Expo 2010...

Toyota Motor Corporation announced the unveiling of the concept model of its compact car, for the Indian markets to take place next month at the annual Auto Expo show to be held in the capital, along with its hybrid variant, the Toyota Prius.

Toyota's Indian counterpart, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd, will start the compact car's production in December, next year at its second plant which is being built in Bangalore. TKM Deputy Managing Director Sandeep Singh said, "Both hatchback and sedan version of concept vehicle of the compact car will be showcased at Auto Expo in New Delhi from January 5th to 11th." "Production will start by December 2010. First year production plan is 70,000" he added.

In eleven year's of Toyota's existence in India, this compact car's project is believed to be the most ambitious and the company is betting big on this initiative to become a volume player. TKM will also be showcasing its hybrid variant, the Toyota Prius at the same event in the capial. "Prius, we are going to display and you can say we are talking about launch of the Prius", Singh said.

When asked about the price tag which will accompany the Prius, Mr. Singh declined to give any details. However, he said that the company is striving hard to convince the Government in granting some concession on duty for Toyota's Prius.

Look who's coming to Auto Expo 2010...

Toyota Motor Corporation announced the unveiling of the concept model of its compact car, for the Indian markets to take place next month at the annual Auto Expo show to be held in the capital, along with its hybrid variant, the Toyota Prius.

Toyota's Indian counterpart, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd, will start the compact car's production in December, next year at its second plant which is being built in Bangalore. TKM Deputy Managing Director Sandeep Singh said, "Both hatchback and sedan version of concept vehicle of the compact car will be showcased at Auto Expo in New Delhi from January 5th to 11th." "Production will start by December 2010. First year production plan is 70,000" he added.

In eleven year's of Toyota's existence in India, this compact car's project is believed to be the most ambitious and the company is betting big on this initiative to become a volume player. TKM will also be showcasing its hybrid variant, the Toyota Prius at the same event in the capial. "Prius, we are going to display and you can say we are talking about launch of the Prius", Singh said.

When asked about the price tag which will accompany the Prius, Mr. Singh declined to give any details. However, he said that the company is striving hard to convince the Government in granting some concession on duty for Toyota's Prius.

Toyota might launch the Prius along with its compact car

Toyota Kirloskar Motors is just a month's time away from showcasing its compact car for India. With the launch of its compact car Toyota wants to increase its market share by entering the small car segment which registers the higest sales in the country. The manufacturer is also planning to launch its hybrid car Prius in the country.

According to Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motors, itis a concept vehicle comming from Japan. He said that both hatchback and sedan version of the concept compact car will be showcased at the upcomming Auto Expo in January. He further said that production of the compact car is slated to begin by the end of 2010 and the manufacturer is plaanning to build around 70,000 units.

Toyota Kirloskar Motors will also be showcasing its Prius at the Auto Expo. When questioned about the possibility of its Prius being launched here, the company's Deputy MD commented that one can say we are talking about the launch of our Prius. Mr.Singh also revealed that the company is hoping the government to approve some consession for the hybrid vehicle otherwise the price of the car would be very expensive and it dosen't make sense in paying a high duty and selling it. He declined to comment on a likely price tag for the Prius.

 
The manufacturer is also vying to increase its dealer network to around 150 dealerships from its current 93 dealerships. A wider dealer network will help the company to attract more potential buyers once its compact car is launched.

Toyota might launch the Prius along with its compact car

Toyota Kirloskar Motors is just a month's time away from showcasing its compact car for India. With the launch of its compact car Toyota wants to increase its market share by entering the small car segment which registers the higest sales in the country. The manufacturer is also planning to launch its hybrid car Prius in the country.

According to Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motors, itis a concept vehicle comming from Japan. He said that both hatchback and sedan version of the concept compact car will be showcased at the upcomming Auto Expo in January. He further said that production of the compact car is slated to begin by the end of 2010 and the manufacturer is plaanning to build around 70,000 units.

Toyota Kirloskar Motors will also be showcasing its Prius at the Auto Expo. When questioned about the possibility of its Prius being launched here, the company's Deputy MD commented that one can say we are talking about the launch of our Prius. Mr.Singh also revealed that the company is hoping the government to approve some consession for the hybrid vehicle otherwise the price of the car would be very expensive and it dosen't make sense in paying a high duty and selling it. He declined to comment on a likely price tag for the Prius.

 
The manufacturer is also vying to increase its dealer network to around 150 dealerships from its current 93 dealerships. A wider dealer network will help the company to attract more potential buyers once its compact car is launched.