Smart Cars india

Tata eMO is a $20,000 EV that will never be made

2012-01-18T04:42:00.000-08:00

Tata is working on another electric vehicle. Like the Indica Vista EV from Tata Motors from a few years ago, the all-electric eMO from Tata Technologies (another part of the much larger Tata Group) shows off Tata's global efforts to move vehicles off of gasoline.

With a 100-mile range and a top speed of 65 miles per hour, the electric MObility (eMO) concept looks good on paper, most importantly the idea that it could be sold for $20,000 before incentives, as Tata Technologies' Nigel Giddons told The New York Times. Even though the concept is not intended for production, Tata thought thorugh ways to save money throughout the manufacturing process. The way this low number was achieved was through a minimalistic attitude of the interior (á la the low-cost Nano) and by allowing the electric powertrain to dictate some unusual design choices. There's no traditional b-pillar, for example, since the rear doors are suicide-style to create a large opening for getting in and out and for putting cargo in the back seats. You have to used the side doors, since there is also no rear hatch, which reduces weight. In a statement, Warren Harris, Tata Technologies President and Global COO, said the, "eMO project symbolizes the coming of age of Indian automotive engineering."

We'll see more of the eMO at the Michelin Challenge Design during the 2012 Detroit Auto Show next week. This year, the MCD's theme is, "City 2046: Art, Life and Ingenuity – Transforming Personal Mobility." An EV with a 100-mile range for just $20,000 may sound good in 2012, but by 2046, we assume this won't be enough.

http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/tata-emo-is-a-20000-ev-that-will-never-be-made/

India’s Bajaj Enters New Market: Cars with Four-Wheels

2012-01-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI — India’s Bajaj Auto Ltd. unveiled its first four-wheeled vehicle, making a foray into the wider market from its comfort zone of two and three-wheeled vehicles.

India’s second-biggest two-wheeler maker, however, stopped short of entering the highly competitive personal passenger car segment dominated by the likes of home-grown Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. and Hyundai Motor Co.
Called the RE60, Bajaj’s new hatchback will create a new public passenger vehicle or “city taxi” segment, Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj told a press conference. The company expects passengers to upgrade from three-wheelers, currently the most popular mode of personal intra-city transport in India, to the new RE60.
“About 5 million three-wheelers made by Bajaj are [currently] on the roads. We are extremely hopeful RE60 would gradually replace these,” Mr. Bajaj said, adding the vehicle also had “excellent export opportunities”. Bajaj is the biggest seller of three-wheeled passenger carriers in India.
The 200 cubic-centimeter gasoline engine-powered vehicle is expected to be ready for commercial production in the next few months.
While the company didn’t set a price, RE60 will likely be a much cheaper alternative to even the cheapest passenger cars currently used as taxis.
Mr. Bajaj said the company has developed CNG variants of the vehicle and expects to get considerable orders from local governments which run public carrier services.
The vehicle was initially conceived by the Pune-based company, in partnership with Renault S.A. and Nissan Motor Co. as a small car to compete with Tata Motors’ Nano, the cheapest car in the world. The partners had planned a joint venture with Bajaj holding a 50% stake and the rest shared by Renault and Nissan. The idea was dropped later and it was decided Bajaj would, in a non-strategic partnership, develop the car, which could be branded and marketed by its partners.
Bajaj later said the Renault-Nissan Alliance was free to walk away from the project if it isn’t satisfied with it. Renault and Nissan have separately said they are developing their own small car for India.
“The platform serves as a base to develop more products and with modifications, we are ready to sell it to Renault and Nissan if they wish,” said Mr. Bajaj, adding Renault and Nissan “continue to show interest.”
The vehicle will be made at Bajaj’s three-wheeler plant at the western city of Aurangabad. With no significant investment involved, the project will be risk-free, Mr. Bajaj said. The company expects the four-wheeler project to have an operating margin of 20%.
http://blogs.wsj.com/drivers-seat/2012/01/03/indias-bajaj-enters-new-market-cars-with-four-wheels/

Mahindra to launch its first compact car next year

2011-12-31T05:40:00.001-08:00

More than a year after Mahindra & Mahindra bought stake in Reva Electric Car Company, the SUV-maker is gearing up to launch its first compact car — it promises nine times the mileage generated by the country’s most fuel-efficient petrol-powered car.
The Reva NXR, due for launch next year, will be only the second follow-up model after the Reva, the country’s only all-electric car, was introduced in 2001.
The NXR has done away with all the limitations of the first-generation Reva, which did not find takers in huge numbers due to its impractical attributes like smaller range (leading to repeated charging), limited top speed and seating capacity.
The range of the NXR, for instance, stands at 160 km on a full charge, double the range generated by the earlier-generation Reva. The new car can comfortably seat four adults and generate top speed of more than 100km/hr compared to 80km/hr earlier.
Chetan Maini, chief of technology and strategy, Mahindra Reva said on Wednesday that the time was “right” to launch such a product in the market with petrol prices breaking new highs. “Consumers who spend Rs 7,000-8,000 every month on petrol are more interested than ever in alternate fuel technology. The Reva NXR is a huge improvement over the existing model and it will surely get the market excited,” he noted.
The NXR, which was unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009 as a concept, has largely maintained its scheduled launch period of 2012. The Reva NXR designed by Dilip Chhabria will be showcased at the upcoming Delhi Auto Expo, at Mahindra’s pavilion.
With a mileage of about 9.6 km for every Rs 3 spent, the Reva NXR claims to be nine times more fuel-efficient than its nearest competitor powered by a petrol engine. At 25kms/litre, the Tata Indica eV2 or the Nano delivers one km for Rs 3 spent. Mahindra Reva’s non-AC variant currently costs Rs 3.2 lakh (ex-showroom), whereas the AC variant costs Rs 3.7 lakh. Maini refused to share details of the expected price of the NXR, but other company officials say effort is on to make a very cost-effective vehicle.
The plans of setting up one of world’s biggest manufacturing bases for electric cars of 30,000 units per annum near Bangalore is one schedule and should be complete in the next few weeks. The company hopes to be selling products through an expanded network of 100 outlets in the country compared to two outlets a few years ago.
With increased demand for electric cars, especially in countries like Norway, the Mahindra Reva is banking on this new model to churn out higher numbers. The concept of electric cars have suffered in India due to lack of infrastructural support, among other reasons.
“Norway, with great infrastructure support by the government, is the highest consumer of electric cars in the world. Increasingly we will have more countries joining the list, as oil prices will force people to look at alternatives,” added Maini. “Smart electric compact cars with automatic drivetrains will be best suited for congested city roads.”
Due to high costs involved in developing the battery technology and lack of government incentives for promotion, electric cars do not come cheap in India. The present generation Reva, sold in three variants, is retailed in 24 countries. The company claims that over 4,000 units of the car are already on roads globally.
It was in May last year that city-based M&M bought 55.2 per cent stake in RECC, for an undisclosed amount, as part of its larger strategy of focusing on sustained mobility. The 1945-founded M&M is also working on electric variants for its own models such as Maxximo, the light truck and Verito, the sedan.

http://business-standard.com/india/news/mahindra-to-launch-its-first-compact-car-next-year/459383/

Ford India's 'Discover Smart Drive' - Season 2 flags off

2011-12-07T04:12:00.000-08:00

The second edition of the Ford India Discover Smart Drive (DSD) Season 2 drive event was flagged off from four cities in India on December 5, and will be driven by three pairs of young participants and a mentor team

Creating a connect with customers through their innovative and out of the box engagement campaigns has seen Ford rise very quickly as a reliable and service oriented automobile brand in the eyes of the Indian masses. The success of the Figo hatch, in particular has paved the way for Ford’s bigger and better future in the country’s automotive space.

To capitalize on the Figo’s growing nationwide popularity, Ford India introduced its one of a kind ‘Discover Smart Drive’ campaign for the very first time last year. Four lucky couples, who were selected for the event based on an online competition, went on to cover a total distance of 2,500kms in 25 days; all of this behind the wheel of a Ford Figo.

With a growing interest in the event’s unique nature, Ford India is back again with the start of the second edition of its flagship event, and this time around the event has reached out to enthusiastic friends, adventurous couples and siblings. Of the 4 Teams participating in this unique drive initiative, three have been selected from an online contest, while the fourth is the mentor team organized by Ford to play guide to the participating teams.

The ‘Ford India Discover Smart Drive was kicked off simultaneously on December 5 from Jammu, Lucknow, Mumbai and Chennai . The route of the Discover Smart Drive Season 2 has been specially designed across every region (north/south/east/west), so participants can explore key cities before reaching the final destination.

Speaking at the flag off of the Mumbai Team, which is now en route to its final destination Kochi, Ford India executive director, Marketing, Sales and Service, Nigel Wark, said,"We've tried to make DSD 2 exciting and challenging at the same time. The passionate winners also get to see that the Figo is a popular car beyond India's borders and cherish the experience of a lifetime by visiting an exciting tourist destination. We want you to join in the fun!"

The winning team will be decided on the basis of a Top score acquired through the team’s performance on various tasks and maximum social media followership in minimum time possible. Ford India will sponsor the winning team along with their favorite fan to an all paid trip to explore Nepal and the majestic Himalayas.
http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/news/ford-indias-discover-smart-drive-season-2-flags-off/10794/1

OnCars India Buzz: December 7, 2011

2011-12-07T04:11:00.001-08:00

- Looks like the Ultra-Low Cost car project may not be dead, after all. Bajaj may just display an improved version of the car at the upcoming Auto Expo

- Grand Theft Auto will for the first time release on the iOS and Android platforms this month

- Ferrari and Red Bull have withdrawn from the FOTA, citing that 'it has run its course'

- Ferrari has put a limited-edition run of the 599 GTB on sale. It is called the 599 GTB 60F1, in honour of the 60 victories it has garnered in Formula 1

- Toyota has announced four new safety projects that will push the boundaries of current automotive safety. Remarkably, it intends to publish this research, making it available to anyone who wants it.

- Toyota has been racing hybrids for some time, but for the first time it will race a Prius in the Japanese SuperGT series. Is a Prius GT hybrid in the works at TRD?

- Someone has stolen Ken Block's helmet! the reward for its return? A ride with the 'Gymkhana' series star himself.

- Audi India has already met its annual sales target in the month of November.
http://www.oncars.in/Car-News-Detail/OnCars-India-Buzz-December-7-2011/1483

Range Rover Evoque For India Launch Next Month

2011-11-07T03:49:00.000-08:00

It made ripples across automobile market when TATA took it over. Now once more Land Rover has something in store for Indian car lovers. The company has decided to launch a Range Rover Evoque in Indian market. The luxury car from James Bond films will now be available in three different and equally classy models Pure, Prestige and Dynamic. The car will be launched in November. The news was released a few hours back at Land Rover’s official website.

Recently Range Rover Evoque was declared Scottish car of the year 2011 in Glasgow. It was because of the looks along with the power it provides. This is because of the machines which power the four wheeler. Customers can choose between a Gasoline engine and a diesel engine. Both the variants look promising and looking technicalities, we think geeks would vote for the 2.2 litre SD4 turbo diesel engine. It produces a maximum power of 190HP and a torque of 420Nm. The 2.0 litre Si4 petrol engine has something higher to offer if you think of power output. The engine is capable of generating a peak power of 240HP and a torque of 340Nm. So it is basically a mix and match of the features that both the power plants can promise. The company has already revealed the specifications that we can expect for upcoming car.
The auto giant is planning to sell cars directly imported from outside India, however soon we can have an assembled version of Range Rover Evoque in 2013. The diesel version is priced INR 50 Lac ($100,000) and the petrol variant will cost around INR 63 Lac ($126,000). Keeping abreast with the changing times, the Range Rover Evoque will house a hoard of smart technologies.
Some of the key Tech-specks are-
Hands free Bluetooth: Compatible with mobile phone. Not to mention the functions that you can operate with this features. This is not the first time that a Bluetooth is employed in an automobile. But the advance system also iPod, MP3 and USB memory stick.
The 380W Meridian Sound System: Developed by partnering with Meridian^TM, you can assume hi-tech service from this sound system. It supports 12 channels and 11 loudspeakers. The sound system also contains dual channel sub woofer for geeks.
Optional Rear Seat Entertainment System: This is special service for those who are buying something more than just a car. They resemble an 8 inch screen iPad. It is fitted on two locations; the back of the front head rests and as a display on touch screen for front seat passenger.
The Range Rover is focused on being a luxury brand and hence we do not feel that it will face much competition from other car manufacturers. The main emphasis of the company would be on customer satisfaction.
http://www.crazyengineers.com/range-rover-evoque-for-india-launch-next-month-1186/

Tatas fast-track finance scheme, get loan for Nano in just 2 days

2010-12-17T03:53:00.000-08:00

The country’s largest car maker Tata Motors seems to have decided to go all around to push-up the sales of its small wonder Tata Nano, as the company now has offered a special finance scheme by which a prospective Nano customer can get loan within 48 hours without any down payment.

At present, the company’s financial arm – Tata Motors Finance (TMF) – offers up to 90 percent finance for Tata Nano on low interest rates. TMF is present at all 540 Tata passenger vehicles dealerships, across the country.

The new special finance scheme has added yet another offer in the series of sales boosting measures taken by the company in last few weeks. Last month, the company had offered new additional safety features to all 70,000 Nano owners in the country, after a number of incidents of Tata Nano catching fire raised the safety related worries of Nano’s existing and prospective customers.

Last week, the company had extended the warranty on Nano to 4 years/ 60,000 km in India. Tata Motors said in a statement, “the Tata Nano will now come with a four year/60,000 km (whichever is earlier) manufacturer's warranty, at no extra cost.” The statement adds, “Besides being applicable on new deliveries, the warranty is also being extended to all existing owners of the car.”

In Nov 2010, Tata Nano sales dipped to its all time low to 509 units from the peak of 9,000 units in July 2010, accounting for a sharp fall of over 85 percent.

http://www.cartradeindia.com/car-bike-news/tatas-fast-track-finance-scheme+-get-loan-for-nano-in-just-2-days-113312.html

Tata Motors to up prices of passenger cars except Nano, Aria

2010-12-17T03:52:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Tata Motors plans to raise prices of all its passenger vehicles except the Nano and the newly-launched Aria by up to 1.5 per cent from next month onwards.

The increase is on account of surging input costs, the Tata group company said.

"We will increase prices of all our passenger vehicles by 1-1.5 per cent from January due to higher input costs," Tata Motors' Vice-President (Commercial, Passenger Cars Business Unit), R Ramakrishnan told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.

"We will increase prices for all passenger vehicles except the Nano and the newly-launched Aria," he said.

Major car-makers such as Hyundai Motor India, Volkswagen and General Motors have also said that they plan to up prices to offset the pressure from rising raw materials costs, including natural rubber.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/auto/automobiles/Tata-Motors-to-up-prices-of-passenger-cars-except-Nano-Aria/articleshow/7111771.cms

Nissan Micra Diesel – Specifications and Price

2010-11-11T23:42:00.000-08:00

Nissan recently announced that it will introduce a diesel variant of its small car model Nissan Micra before the end of this year. It has now released its detailed specification sheet for the Indian customers. The new Nissan Micra diesel will have a Diesel engine having a maximum power of 64 bhp @ 4000 rpm and a maximum torque of 155 Nm @ 2000 rpm is present in Nissan Micra Diesel that has 1461 CC, 4 valves. It will scale a length of 3780 mm, 1665 mm of width and 1530 mm of height. A 5-speed manual transmission will also be provided in this new car. The smart keyfob will start the engine with the push of a button and the engine immobilizer provided in the new Micra diesel will stop anyone, without the key, from starting the car.

Nissan currently has 20 dealerships across India and has started booking the diesel model that will be available before Christmas. The diesel variant of Nissan Micra has INR 50, 000 extra as compared to Nissan Micra petrol version. The Nissan Micra Diesel XV is available at price tag of Rs. 6.45 Lakh and XV Premium is available at price tag of Rs. 6.90 Lakh. Nissan Micra Diesel variants includes most of the standard features and electric parkand fold mirror, door mirror electric adjustment, auto AC, greige colour interior scheme, intelligent key with push button ignition, front passenger airbag, ABS, EBD, BA, front fog lamps and security alarm.

http://www.cartradeindia.com/car-bike-news/nissan-micra-diesel-%96-specifications-and-price-113153.html

Small and smart

2010-08-13T03:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever let out a sigh when a great-looking sedan zoomed past your little hatchback? Well, almost every small car owner has. But with the present situation of roads in Delhi, it’s actually them who are smiling away to and from the parking lots. “Jis jagah mein 10 Maruti-Santro

aati hai, badi gaddi sirf 5-6 aati hai (where 10 Marutis or Santros can be parked, only 5-6 sedans can be accommodated),” says Manoj Tiwari, a keeper at the NDMC parking at Janpath.

And with the entire city, specially the central Delhi, resembling a war-ravaged zone, it is tough work to navigate your shining cruiser. “Unless you have a designated parking slot for yourself, it’s such a hassle to park a big car,” says Naresh Agarwal, a shopkeeper in Connaught Place. The situation is not better on the road, as 60 lakh vehicles jostle to find space on Delhi’s roads. “I could have jolly well got a [Honda] Civic, but opted for a Jazz instead,” says Shristi Pradhan, a management trainer who commutes every day to Nehru Place from Janakpuri. “But it’s actually a headache to navigate a big car,” she adds. “Also, bigger vehicles are much more prone to scratches and accidents here,” says Manish Bhattacharya, 22, who drives a Santro to college.
Small on stress, big on frills
No wonder, then, that Maruti Suzuki — which gave India its first small car — still dominates nearly 47 per cent of India’s car market, according to Wiki Reports. Even Hyundai, the nearest competitor to Maruti with its Santro, and now i10, aims to have a 20.6 per cent share — all courtesy their small cars.

Add to the list Fiat, Honda and even Volkswagen, who are now focussing on the burgeoning small car market. “The best thing now is that manufacturers are packing all the stylish features of a sedan in a hatchback due to demand,” points Rajiv Mitra, General Manager, Corporate Communi-cations, Hyundai. “So there’s no dent in the pride, as well as satisfaction, if you have a small car.”
So, if you have been planning to go for a sedan, think again. Remember, the biggest cult ‘people’s car’ in history — the Beetle — is still a hatchback by birth.
Soon on the streets...
Renault-Nissan-Bajaj: The Renault-Bajaj small car, tipped to cost anything between R 1,30,000 to R 1,90,000, is expected to hit the market by next year. It is being considered a competitor to the Tata Nano. The Nissan Pixo, expected to be priced within R 3-4 lakh, is also expected soon.
Reva: The next generation Reva NXR electric is expected in the first quarter of next year.
Maruti: Maruti Cervo, expected to be priced around R 1.5 - 2.5 lakh, may hit the road by the end of the year.
Volkswagen: The Volkswagen Up is expected in the first half of 2011. It may be priced around R 3.5-5 lakh.
Hyundai: Hyundai may come out with a diesel version of the Santro Xing next year, which is to be priced around R 2.7 - 4 lakh. A diesel version of i10, followed by i30, is also expected.
Tata: The Nano may have its hybrid version by the first half of 2011. It will be priced around R 1.15 - R 1.8 lakh.
Honda: The Honda Tif is expected soon. Its price is yet to be announced.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/Small-and-smart/Article1-585202.aspx

GM India showcase range of offerings at Hyderabad Auto Show 2010

2010-05-21T02:34:00.001-07:00

The vehicles on display include GM India's latest offerings from the 300 series, Chevrolet Beat and Cruze and the extremely popular and much sought after, Chevrolet Captiva and Spark

General Motors India is showcasing its exciting range of offerings at the regional Auto Show in Hyderabad at Hitex Exhibition Centre from May 13 - 16, 2010. The vehicles on display include GM India's latest offerings from the 300 series, Chevrolet Beat and Cruze and the extremely popular and much sought after, Chevrolet Captiva and Spark.

Speaking about the range of vehicles at display,P Balendran, Vice-President, General Motors India said, “The Auto Show in Hyderabad provides us with an ideal platform to exhibit GM India’s technological advancement and product offerings. This forum gives us an opportunity to engage with the valued consumers in this region and gain market insights into consumer trends and response, enabling us to serve them better. This region has tremendous market potential and is a key region for us.”

While Chevrolet Beat and Cruze have become the industry benchmarks in their respective segments and a winner among consumers in India, Chevrolet Spark is one of the most sought after mini car in its segment in terms of styling, performance, fuel efficiency, value for money proposition and other product attributes. The recent roll-out of 100,000th Chevy Spark clearly validates the unmatched popularity that it enjoys amongst the consumers.

Chevy Beat

With its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The Beat comes with a new generation Smart-TEC II 1.2L engine delivering a class leading 80.5ps and an exceptionally high fuel efficiency of 18.6kmpl per ARAI tests. The Beat also offers some segment first luxury features like Automatic Climate Control and Tilt Steering. An integrated rear spoiler is also standard which adds style and also improves the aerodynamics of the car enabling better fuel efficiency.

Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze is all about value, refinement and power-packed diesel performance combined with an array of unique features. And with the Automatic transmission option the Cruze offers everything any discerning Indian car buyer could want in a Sedan at a price point that represents uncontestable value for money. The Cruze has been receiving excellent market response since its launch in the last quarter of 2009. The auto Journalists in India who had test driven the vehicle have rated it as the best in its segment for its unique product attributes. The Cruze has already won the following awards:

NDTV Car & Bike Viewers Choice Car of the Year

Autocar Bloomberg UTV Best Saloon Car of the Year

ET Zigwheels Midsize Sedan of the year

Car & Bike NDTV Executive Car of the Year

BS Motoring Best Value for Money Car of the Year

Chevy Spark

Chevrolet Spark has been ruling the JD Power Asia Pacific IQS study for 3 years in a row for its top-notch quality features and its best-in-class fuel economy. These awards reiterate the fact that customers across the country trust the Chevrolet Spark for its multiple features, safety, fuel efficiency and value proposition. This entry level Hatchback provides unbeatable value through its modern, dynamic styling, unmatched fuel economy and class leading comfort and convenience. The Spark is one of the world’s most popular mini-cars and has recorded over 3 million loyal customers globally, attesting to its rising popularity amongst car lovers across a wide spectrum of countries worldwide.

Chevrolet Captiva

Since its launch, the Captiva has established a clear niche for itself and has emerged as a top contender in the premium SUV space. GM India has also launched a limited edition of Captiva called the Xtreme with state of the art design features like the electric Sunroof, sporty red & black two tone interior trim, black bezel headlamps, smoked lens tail lamps, etc.
http://www.indiainfoline.com/Markets/News/GM-India-showcase-range-of-offerings-at-Hyderabad-Auto-Show-2010/4839339351

Bajaj car to be world's cheapest

2010-05-05T02:43:00.001-07:00

Bajaj's ultra-low cost car being manufactured jointly with Renault and Nissan promises to give hot chase to the Tata Nano. On Monday, Rajiv Bajaj (BAJAJAUTO.NS : 2101.05 0), MD, Bajaj Auto confirmed the $2,500 (Rs 1.1 lakh) price tag for the car, announced first by Renault chairman & CEO Carlos Ghosn at the company's shareholders' meet late last week. The Renault announcement comes a few days after it pulled out of its loss-making Logan venture with Mahindra & Mahindra.
The Bajaj car will be cheaper than the Nano, which comes at Rs 1.23 lakh-1.72 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi ). After the launch of Tata Nano, the race for the No.2 position in the ultra-low cost car segment is under way in India , which as emerged as the Mecca of this segment. However, other automakers' plans to enter this segment are still on the drawing board.
At Renault meeting, Ghosn said: "In India , Renault and Nissan are developing an ultra-low-cost vehicle with the Bajaj group, benefiting from its expertise in light vehicles and knowledge of the Indian market." He reiterated the affordability of the vehicle for the Indian market by citing the targeted low price tag.
"We are combining our strengths with Nissan, notably in India , Russia , Brazil and Mexico ," Ghosn said. "The alliance product strategy has been finalised in India and Russia , and Renault and Nissan will pool their production capacities and platforms there to fully deliver on these developments," he added.
The car was initially scheduled to hit the market this year, but has been postponed to 2012. Bajaj Auto displayed the prototype of the small car at the 2008 Auto Expo. However, the three partners were stuck at various levels of branding and engineering the car till last year. According to industry observers, the project also got delayed as partners were stuck on pricing issues as well. While Renault wanted a low-cost car, Bajaj was keen on a car that would sport high mileage and low maintenance.
It was during his India visit that Ghosn finally announced the finalisation of the project. "As per the agreement, the design, engineering, sourcing and manufacturing will be handled by Bajaj Auto, while marketing and selling will be (done) by Renault-Nissan Alliance," he said. But he had declined to comment on the pricing of the car.
Officials from the alliance have said the car will be smaller than Maruti Suzuki's Alto, which is the biggest selling model in India .
In March, Collin Dodge, executive vice-president, Nissan Motor had said: "It is over two years that Bajaj is trying to produce the car. The physics of it is very difficult. We have not yet found a solution as there are a lot of engineering solutions required." Nissan is also in talks with Hinduja group company Ashok Leyland (ASHOKLEY.NS : 62.2 +1.25) to develop a small car for the global market that could be priced around $4,500-5,000.
"We have a formal agreement with Ashok Leyland for making light commercial vehicles in India . In addition, we also use Ashok Leyland's engineering services for various purposes. At the moment, we are talking to them and many other partners in China , Indonesia ...for a price centric vehicle," Nissan Motor Co executive vice-president Collin Dodge had said at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
http://in.biz.yahoo.com/100503/50/baviql.html

New Entrants in Small Car Market in India

2010-04-10T17:56:00.001-07:00

Small car market in India will foresee new entrants in the coming years. This year General Motors has already launched Chevrolet Beat, Ford has introduced Figo and Volkswagen has launched Polo as their small cars. Hyundai’s new i20 diesel and Nissan Micra are new models still expected in the current year. Honda’s new small car and Toyota Etios are expected by early 2011.

Apart from the recent developments in the international auto scenario, more car models are expected in the developing markets especially India. Volkswagen-Suzuki tie up is already contemplating to develop a small car for the Indian market where as Maruti Suzuki has already ramped up its R&D center in India. MSIL is planning to launch a special “made-in-India” car by 2012.

Renault is planning to launch its successful car model Clio or Twingo in India in next two years. The car is built on Nissan’s B platform and is already extremely successful in Europe.

Daimler had earlier launched the Smart Car in the international market. Now Daimler and Renault-Nissan have formed an alliance internationally. Daimler is also planning to develop a cost competitive small car for the emerging markets. “This alliance could help in developing a cost-competitive product for emerging markets,” said a Daimler official working closely with the alliance.

Senior officials at Renault and Nissan said while the alliance may not have an immediate impact on India, it could leverage on R&D and source components from low-cost destinations.

All in all, the small car market never looked so active!
http://www.cartradeindia.com/car-bike-news/new-entrants-in-small-car-market-in-india-112366.html

Tata Nano likely to lose much-hyped price tag

2010-03-14T05:45:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI — India's Tata Nano was launched with great fanfare as a 100,000-rupee (2,200-dollar) vehicle -- a round number that neatly encapsulated its status as the world's cheapest car.
But analysts say parent group Tata and its chairman Ratan Tata will struggle to keep the jellybean-shaped vehicle on sale at this level due to the rising costs of raw materials, labour and new higher taxes.
Described as India's "People's Car," the Nano is pitched at the country's aspiring middle-classes, many of whom currently travel on two wheels but are looking to upgrade.
"The Nano is Ratan Tata?s dream project. But as costs rise, the Nano will not remain a 100,000-rupee car," said Vaishali Jajoo, from Mumbai-based Angel Broking.
Tata faces the same problems as other car manufacturers, such as Japan-owned Maruti Suzuki and its rival Hyundai Motors, which have hiked their prices this year.
Steel in most forms has seen an average price rise of 25 percent since April 2009, Jajoo said, while the prices of tyres and auto accessories are rising as demand for copper, aluminium, plastics and rubber picks up.
The increase in commodity prices can be attributed to rising global demand following the end of the financial crisis and deep recessions in developed countries, analysts say.
Tata Motors has guaranteed that the first 100,000 cars will be delivered "price protected" to owners, which means they get the vehicle at the promised price, regardless of rising costs.
At least 26,500 Nanos have been sold since its launch in July last year, with the basic model priced at 100,000 rupees from the factory floor, while the popular, high-end version, the Nano LX, sells for 172,360-185,375 rupees.
When a second round of bookings opens -- seen as likely in the last quarter of the year -- the cost of an LX could rise to nearly 200,000 rupees, while the basic model could be about 130,000, analysts say.
Tata Motors was coy on a possible price rise.
"What happens in the future is difficult to say," a company spokesman said.
But while announcing its previous quarter earnings, the company admitted it faced challenges from the rising cost of raw materials, withdrawal of government stimulus and a possible hike in interest rates.
The Nano has sparked a race to create other ultra-low-cost cars for the Indian and other emerging markets.
India and its 1.2-billion-strong population is a huge draw because of the low number of car owners. Car penetration is just eight per 1,000 people, compared with 550 per 1,000 in Germany and 495 in France.
French automaker Renault and its Japanese partner Nissan plan to launch a car to rival the Nano in 2012 in partnership with scooter and three-wheel specialist Bajaj Auto.
Ford, Toyota and Honda are also poised to launch small cars in India in the next two years.
Nevertheless, analysts said the Nano would still hold its place.
The basic Nano is on average about 1,300 dollars cheaper than its nearest rivals, the Maruti five-seater Omni at 200,000 rupees and the Maruti-800 at 210,000 rupees.
"The Nano has a first-mover advantage (in India). Rural demand will offset any impact of lower demand due to a price rise," said analyst Gaurang Shah, from Geojit BNP Paribas Financial Services.
The car's novelty value is also a big advantage, with the Nano still getting second looks on busy Indian roads eight months after its launch.
"It has that toy-like, cuddly, safe feeling," said Sunaina Kakkad, a Mumbai call-centre worker, who is looking to buy her first car.
The company is also looking to sell it in the United States, but it could be years before the car hits US showrooms, as the company re-designs to incorporate a larger engine and meet higher safety standards.
Last year, Tata unveiled a European version of the Nano sporting airbags and leather trim, with more stringent safety and emissions standards.
The Nano Europa will hit the market in 2010-11 at a price near 5,000 euros (6,390 dollars).
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iMtxrF9rvB6oelohyVFo1ctTyk2A

GM India Introduces Chevrolet Cruze Automatic

2010-02-24T01:45:00.000-08:00

General Motors India today launched the Chevrolet Cruze AT in Bangalore at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director Mr. Karl Slym. The manual version of Chevrolet Cruze launched in October has already redefined the D-segment with its coupe-like design proportions, comfortable interiors, class leading features and other exclusive product attributes.
The 6 Speed Automatic Transmission will be offered on the LTZ variant which also comes with a host of features like PEPS, Push Button Start, Cruise Control, Smart Screen and Electric Sunroof to name a few. The Automatic variant will also be available in a special 3 coat paint called White Diamond in addition to the exciting six colors already on offer.
The Chevrolet Cruze AT also has a triptronic mode which enables a sportier drive for the customer. Other highlights of this six-speed automatic transmission include Clutch-to-clutch shift operation for added precision and smoother shifts between gears. Also, it has a wide spread ratio with the first gear designed for a very high ratio to provide brisk acceleration from the top while the sixth gear has an overdrive ratio to keep the engine revolutions as low as possible for highway cruising and improved fuel economy. One of the key benefits of this model is that it uses premium fluids in the transmission that does not need replacement during normal use.
“Chevrolet has already become a driving force in India’s vehicle market,” said Karl Slym, President and Managing Director of GM India. “The Cruze has been receiving excellent market response since its launch in the last quarter of 2009. The auto Journalists in India who had test driven the vehicle have rated it as the best in its segment for its unique product attributes.
The Cruze has already won the following awards
1.NDTV Car & Bike Viewers Choice Car of the Year
2.Autocar Bloomberg UTV Best Saloon Car of the Year
3.ET Zigwheels Midsize Sedan of the year
4.Car & Bike NDTV Executive Car of the Year
5.BS Motoring Best Value for Money Car of the Year
It builds on the reputation of the brand for attractive design, great performance and outstanding fuel economy in the D-segment. The Chevrolet Cruze is also one of the key drivers of the global expansion of Chevrolet. It is backed by the highest scores in major crash safety ratings. The Chevrolet Cruze has also recently received the maximum five-star rating in European New Car Assessment Program (ENCAP) rating, after winning 5 star ratings in Australian and China NCAP. The latest feather in Chevrolet Cruze’s cap is its selection as a finalist in the reputed ‘World Car of the Year’ Award.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr.P.Balendran, Vice President, General Motors India said ‘the Cruze is all about value, refinement and power-packed diesel performance combined with an array of unique features. And with the Automatic transmission option the Cruze offers everything any discerning Indian car buyer could want in a Sedan at a price point that represents uncontestable value for money’.
GM’s investment in manufacturing the Cruze in India is a demonstration of our sustained commitment to making Chevrolet the most admired and preferred vehicle brand in this country. We believe this vehicle is the right product for India because of the unique product features and fine tuning that were carried out to meet the requirements of our consumer, climatic and driving conditions. As a result, we expect Cruze AT also to set new benchmarks in its segment. By introducing products like Cruze with class leading features, we look forward to continue building on the brand’s success nationwide, said Balendran.
Coinciding with the launch of Cruze AT , GM India also inaugurated its 3rd dealership M/s. Trident Automobiles Pvt. Ltd in Bangalore today. This demonstrates our commitment to widening our dealership network to take care of our rapidly-expanding customer base in the city and the state of Karnataka. The new dealership is equipped to provide unmatched services and ambience to its customers. A wide range of exclusive accessories will also be on display for customers’ benefit. Additionally, a team of GM trained technicians will be available at the ultra modern workshop with latest garrage tools and tackles, diagnostic equipment, ultra modern body repair shop and computerized facilities for attending to every need of the GM customers in the region.
The company now has 11 dealerships and 12 service centres in the state of Karnataka alone taking the overall tally to 206 sales points and 200 authorised service outlets across the country. It intends to take the network to 300 sales points and an equal number of authorized service outlets by the end of this year. In addition, the company has also set up 4 parts distribution centres at Talegaon, Halol, Chennai and Delhi to ensure timely and easy availability of parts.
The unveiling of the Cruze AT follows GM India’s successful launches of Chevrolet Beat and Captiva Extreme last month.
General Motors India has completed over 13 years of operation in India. GM India started its journey in 1996 and now offers products under the Chevrolet brand, which was introduced in India in 2003. Chevrolet had already emerged as one of the fastest growing automotive nameplates in India. GM India produces the Chevrolet Captiva, Chevrolet Optra, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Aveo, Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, Chevrolet Spark, Chevrolet Beat and Chevrolet Tavera for sale in India and operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Halol, Gujarat and in Talegaon, Maharashtra.
http://www.webnewswire.com/node/508321

Impossibly Cheap, Tiny Car Coming To American Market

2010-01-26T07:59:00.000-08:00

Back in the early '00s, I saw Smart cars zipping around my neighborhood in France and thought, "Europe is so weird! They'd never sell those in the US." But I was wrong. And the relative success of tiny cars like the Mini Cooper and, the Smart fortwo has led to the inevitable. The world's cheapest car, India's Tata Nano, is coming to America and Europe in about three years.
The Nano sells for about $2,500 USD in India, and will be more robust and safer before it shows up on the American and European markets. But it'll still be tiny, and cheaper than a base-model Hyndai Accent, currently the cheapest new car on the US market.

http://consumerist.com/2010/01/impossibly-cheap-tiny-car-coming-to-american-market.html

'Car IT will be adapted soon in India'

2009-12-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Microsoft’s ubiquitous Windows platform has an automotive version, MS Auto, an operating system for cars which includes info-and-entertainment

Norbert Braendli

systems. The software developer sees a role for itself in the auto industry’s green movement focusing on sustainability, controlling emissions and the move towards electric vehicles. Within the nearly $60-billion Microsoft Corporation universe, the automotive business is still small but the worldwide managing director of its automotive and industrial equipment business, Norbert Braendli, believes it will grow.

His confidence rises from the changing habits of a younger generation of car owners who will want to take their world with them wherever they go via the mobile phone and the change this will bring to the concept of mobility. So which trends in the automotive industry are of interest to the software major?

First off, car makers are investing in technology for sustainability and emissions control. You see ‘green’ cars at all the motor shows. The key for OEMs is time to market, with some like Toyota already there so there’s no time to lose for the others. In this area, MS can provide service to electric vehicles where energy management is critical. The range of an electric battery cannot compare with the standard battery. So, they need smart energy management. “We are also involved in services around the car, like making it easier to navigate and in location-based services,” he said.

An electric vehicle needs improved navigation systems, systems which are intelligent and dynamic. For instance, roads are now in 2-D but in an electric vehicle, if we provide 3-D road maps, these would show the gradient. This has a direct impact on consumption — a gradient means higher consumption. So the user might want to use a road that is flat even if it is a bit longer. We will be doing more in this space, he said.

Will this country be the first to deploy some of Microsoft’s solutions in the volume segment cars? Microsoft’s Car IT, which refers to mobile devices usable in a car, will be customary in next generation cars — cars that will be launched in the next 5-10 years. Dr Braendli expects that in India, with the penetration of the mobile phone, Car IT will be adapted more quickly than in the mature economies. As more Indian OEMs look at exports, they will have to include systems such as these in their products and Microsoft aims to provide basic services like security, user management and other basic services from the computer to work in and on-road environment. But infrastructure is a critical necessity.

So far, Microsoft has Ford Sync, which synchronises the mobile device with the car. It is built into the steering wheel, based on voice commands and has a standard interface with a USB, bluetooth, music, etc. For Fiat, it is Blue&Me, similar to the Ford Sync with some additional features built around it. The USB stick can read data and once the driver gets home, gets a free download on the home computer. Infrastructure, in the form of internet connectivity, safety and security could be problems. On the service side, the company expects to a difference between the volume segment and the premium. “We are in talks with car makers to provide MS Office services in premium cars for which we have done the proof of concept,” Dr Braendli remarked.

The OEMs however want high quality speech recognition and human machine interface, not standard Windows, to manage services inside the car. That ensures driver does not take his hands off the steering wheel.
So if MS Auto increases productivity, why not deployed it on commercial vehicles? Microsoft has begun talks with CV manufacturers, and it is more urgent for them. For a driver of a commercial vehicle, the truck is his home so he needs the PC, television, DVD, and so on, to be used during night halts. This is a huge opportunity there. Also, uptime is critical in fleet management so there are opportunities around remote diagnostics, monitoring the quality of the truck. If the price comes down, CV manufacturers will want such telematics-based service.

What can we expect in future from Microsoft in the automotive space? Much of the advancement would be around more entertainment, including digital radio. Also, an improved navigation system, making it more intelligent. Over the next three years, we will have two releases of MS Auto, extensions of the current versions. These will be standardised and richer and closer to OE requirements.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/opinion/interviews/Car-IT-will-be-adapted-soon-in-India/articleshow/5380139.cms

Honda plans Asian small car, with India as lead market

2009-11-13T20:35:00.001-08:00

New Delhi: Honda Motor Co has identified India, along with China, as two of its top priority markets. Moreover, the company believes India holds a great potential for vehicle growth -- the very reason why the company's president and CEO Takanobu Ito chose New Delhi as the destination for his first overseas visit after assuming charge.

http://www.dnaindia.com/money/report_honda-plans-asian-small-car-with-india-as-lead-market_1310412

India, China small car sales cheer auto companies at global level

2009-11-06T06:58:00.001-08:00

Consumers in emerging markets have saved the day for top global auto makers grappling with the after-effects of the steepest fall in global output since the Great Depression. On Monday, Japan’s Suzuki Motor said that its annual operating profit would be four times more than previously forecast because of strong sales in India, according to a Reuters report.

Auto majors such as Suzuki and Hyundai Motors, South Korea’s biggest automobile maker, have seen growth buoyed by sales of small car in emerging markets. According to international media reports, Hyundai recorded about 55% of sales from China and India while Toyota saw around 31% of sales coming from emerging markets.

Hyundai, the second-largest carmaker in India, exported Santro cars and Accent sub-compacts made in India to over 100 countries, said company officials. Analysts say that small cars have emerged as a source of competitive advantage for these companies, giving them an edge over other big carmakers such as Ford and General Motors (GM), which have taken a hit in numbers.

When contacted, RC Bhargava, chairman of Maruti-Suzuki, said: “We will produce over one million cars this year and will certainly boost the consolidated balance sheet of Suzuki. A good-performing subsidiary always helps the parent company.”

Indian advantage

Suzuki’s 50% share in the rapidly-growing Indian market provides it an unusual advantage, at least in the current circumstances, compared to its much bigger rivals like Toyota and Honda who are more exposed to the US and European markets. India makes almost a quarter of Suzuki’s global production, company officials say.

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, also posted a 32% growth in domestic sales at 85,415 units in October 2009. Hyundai Motor India’s total sales for October 2009 stood at 51,736 units, up 11%. Tata Motors and M&M — the two largest companies owned by Indian entrepreneurs — saw growth rates in excess of 20% in October. Crucially, Tata Motors has seen a smart recovery in sales of commercial vehicles, a bellwether for economic growth.

India is the world’s fifth or sixth largest maker of passenger vehicles, depending on definitions. Sales of cars and utility vehicles is expected to be around 1.8 million units for the year ended March 31, 2010.

Despite the brisk growth rate in India, they palled compared to the eye-popping 9.6 million units sold in the first nine months of 2009 in China. The sharp contraction of consumer demand in the US has propelled China into the position of the world’s largest automobile market.

Government incentives

Domestic growth rates have been boosted by Indian government’s efforts to combat the fallout of the financial meltdown in the second half of 2008. As a result, taxes on small cars — defined according to length and the size of the engine — as well as trucks were cut to 8%, the lowest level in many years.

This is true for countries worldwide. China has halved taxes on small cars, while developed markets have sought to boost sales by encouraging consumers to bring forward purchases of new cars. The most famous of these is the ‘cash for clunkers’ programme introduced in the US that encouraged car owners to purchase a more fuel-efficient one by trading in a less-efficient car.

Both Germany and France have had similar schemes, popularly known as “scrappage schemes”. Exports of small cars from India to European countries have benefited from these.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/5191121.cms

General Motor Launches Cruze in India

2009-10-23T02:55:00.000-07:00

General Motors launched its upper midsize sedan Chevrolet Cruze in the Indian market amidst much fanfare in Mumbai. The car is priced competitively at Rs. 10.99 lakh and Rs. 12.45 lakh for its LT and LTZ variants respectively. The new Chevrolet Cruze is available in six colours - Atlantis Blue, Light Gold, Olympic White, Velvet Red, Misty Lake and Caviar Black. It will be pitted against Skoda Laura, Honda City, Toyota Corolla Altis and Volkswagen Jetta. General Motors is offering a warranty of first three year or 1 lakh kilometers.

"The Cruze has been receiving rave reviews since its recent debut in some other markets. We expect it to perform well against the established D-segment players," said Karl Slym, General Motors India President and Managing Director. "GM's investments in manufacturing the Cruze in India are a demonstration of our sustained commitment to making Chevrolet the most admired and preferred vehicle brand in this country," Slym added.

The car is powered by a 2.0 Litre Commom Rail Turbodiesel engine with 150 bhp of maximum power and 327 nm of torque. It is the most powerful engine in its class for petrol or diesel models. ARAI has given it a mileage certificate of 18.1 kmpl for the diesel model which makes it the most economical car in its segment as well.

The new model is laden with a host of features which are standard in its category - Airbags, ABS, follow me home headlamps (headlamps which turn off automatically after some time), alloy wheels and a smart screen which shows a number of settings for the driver. The display screen shows date, time and outside temperature. Sunroof, Leather seats, 6 CD changer, Park Assists, steering mounted audio controls and cruise control are further add-on features available in the LTZ variant.

The new Chevrolet Cruze also features Passive Entry Passive Start System, which offers complete keyless operations such as keyless entry, ignition starter without keys, anti-theft alarm and central locking system. One of the striking features of the new Chevrolet Cruze is that the car can be started even with a push button while the keys are still in the pocket. The car detects the keys as soon as the driver comes near the car and it opens the locks automatically.

Apart from normal airbags, safety features also include additional features like Emergency exit where the boot also opens from an inside lever. This prevents the occupants to be trapped inside the car in case of a traumatic situation.

Apart from the launch of Chevrolet Cruze, the company officials also confirmed that GM’s new mini car “Beat” is slated for a launch later this year and will be priced at Rs. 4 lakh. General Motors is also planning to launch a new 800cc petrol engine Spark model in India next year.

http://www.cartradeindia.com/car-bike-news/general-motor-launches-cruze-in-india-111593.html

Proton Team To Visit India To Finalise Joint Venture With Hero

2009-10-10T06:36:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- A delegation from Proton Holdings Bhd is expected to arrive here later this month to finalise plans to form a joint venture with Hero Group.

The Economic Times in today's front-page "Hero chases small car dream with Proton" said that Proton and Hero Group were in the final stage of negotiations.

Hero Group's top executives, according to the newspaper, had visited Proton's Shah Alam and Tanjung Malim plants and its car design subsidiary, Lotus in the United Kingdom.

Sunil Kant Munjal, chairman of Hero Corporate Service Ltd, told the newspaper: "Proton came and met us earlier and there's nothing more to add."

The tie-up would enable Hero Group, a family owned company that started off producing bicycle components in early 1940s, to enter the robust Indian passenger car market, which sold 1.5 million vehicles last year.

Proton had been critically exploring the Indian motor vehicle sector for some years and had talks with leading Indian players like Mahindra and Mahindra, Ambassador, Hindustan Motors, Sonalika's International Car and Motors Ltd and Argentum Motors.

More interaction between both parties is in the pipeline when International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed visit India later this month.

The US$4 billion Hero Group is owned by Delhi-based Munjal family.

In the past, the Indian company had also explored joint venture possibilities with French carmaker Peugeot-Citroen and Germany's Volkswagen, to manufacture cars for the Indian market, said the paper.
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsbusiness.php?id=445960

One more small car from Maruti, now as a CKD

2009-10-06T01:00:00.000-07:00

The outflow of small cars from Maruti’s stable is ridiculously constant. It announced the new Zen Estilo last week, and within no time, focus has shifted on to another small car for India.
The new “eco” small car will be made in Thailand to benefit from the tax sops the government offers for vehicles following certain regulations (sub-1,300 cc, delivering fuel efficiency of 20 km per litre and under 120 grams of CO2 emissions per km). Our very own Tata is putting together a small car which will also fall under the eco category.
Moreover the Indo-Thai free trade agreement assists in sourcing componenets at a much cheaper rate now. The same has prompted Maruti to source CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits of the eco car from Thailand and assemble it locally.
Though the details are not clear, could it be an all new small car to take on select variants of the Nano? With the 800 retiring next year, one finds it hard it to believe it will be anything else.

Ford's global chief to unveil new small car in India

2009-09-22T04:03:00.001-07:00

Ford Motor Co is expected to announce its new small car for the Indian market on Wednesday, with Alan Roger Mulally, Ford's president and chief executive, making a lightening visit to the country for the unveiling.
Although Ford officials seem to be playing it low key with no detailed announcement yet, Wheels Unplugged says the new small car has been codenamed Ford B517 is expected to be launched in March next year.
To be built at its Chennai facility, the new car will come in petrol and diesel versions of 1.2 litre and 1.5 litre engine capacity respectively to satisfy the Indian government's definition of a small car.
The car would have 85 per cent local content, and the company is in talks with Tata Steel for better steel prices with the increased volumes, according to the report. The company was earlier sourcing steel blankets - cut steel sheets - from its sister plant in Thailand.
This is part of Ford Motor's plans to integrate car designs globally and develop compact and mid-sized cars to help improve profitability and productivity.
Mulally, it may be recalled is the man who got rid of Ford's loss-making marquee brands Jaguar and Land Rover, selling them to Tata Motors last year, just ahead of the global turndown.
This timely sale helped Ford weather the recession without government aid.
Mulally had earlier also sold another marquee - Aston Martin, made famous by fictional super-spy James Bond.
http://www.domain-b.com/companies/companies_f/Ford_India/20090922_ford.html

REVA to launch electric M1 hatchback and sporty NXG at Frankfurt

2009-09-09T02:23:00.000-07:00

An electric car company based in India, REVA has been producing and selling vehicles since 2001. The REVAi is a minuscule three-door hatchback that can seat 4 people and is smaller than a smart fortwo. It can reach a top speed of 80 km/h and offers a range of up to 80 kilometres.

REVAi

The REVAi can also be equipped with options like A/C, central locking, two-tone leather, climate seats, and a choice of 2000 colours.

At this year’s Frankfurt auto show, REVA will introduce two models and one peculiar new feature.

REVA M1

The M1 is a 4-passenger, 3-door hatch like the REVAi, but will offer a 160-km range when it will go on sale in the beginning of 2010. The NXG, on the other hand, is a two-door sporty car with a targa roof and minics the smart crossblade with its motorcycle windshield and open-air cockpit. According to REVA’s website, the NXG can reach 120 km/h and offers a range of 200 km.

Also presented at the show will be a feature called REVive. If you own a REVA and run out of charge, you can call or SMS REVA and they will instantly “charge you up”; it’s basically an invisible reserve charge that gets remotely activated and, according to REVA, addresses “range anxiety”.

REVA is currently being sold or being market tested in 24 countries.

REVA NXR

http://www.auto123.com/en/news/car-news/reva-to-launch-electric-m1-
hatchback-and-sporty-nxg-at-frankfurt?artid=111076

Maruti Suzuki launches New Estilo minus the Zen tag

2009-09-03T01:24:00.001-07:00

New Delhi: India's biggest carmaker by sales, Maruti Suzuki India, has launched a new refreshed version of the Estilo model - but without the Zen tag at an introductory price between Rs3.12 lakh and Rs3.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Unlike the current 1.1-litre Zen Estilo, the new Estilo comes with an extremely fuel efficient 998cc petrol engine from its new K-series, which also equips Maruti Suzuki's other small cars - the A-Star and the Ritz. According to ARAI test results Estilo delivers a whopping 18.2 kmp / liltres in fuel efficiency, which should endear it to a large number of motorists in the country.

Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Shinzo Nakanishi, managing director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India said, "The new Estilo, with a new technology engine and a new transmission, is sure to delight the customer. We are confident that the new Estilo with its bolder new design and interiors will add to the competitive edge of Maruti Suzuki in compact car segment."

Maruti Suzuki has decided to drop the Zen prefix from the new model mainly as, it feels the name does not suit the current taste of Indian youth, Estilo's target group and says the ''Zen brand's shelf life is over''.

The new Estilo would be manufactured at the Maruti's Gurgaon plant, where the A-Star and the Ritz are also made. The company currently produces the K Series engines in 1 litre for the A-Star and 1.2 litre for the Ritz from its manufacturing facility at Gurgaon. The K Series engines are Bharat Stage-III, Bharat Stage-IV and Euro-V emission norms compliant.

The new Estilo delivers 68 PS@ 6200rpm of power and a higher torque of 90Nm @ 3500rpm. The improved engine technology provides higher power, lower NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) and the lightweight engine helps to increase fuel efficiency with lower emissions. The new Estilo comes with ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 18.2 kmpl.
Features of Estilo's K10B engine include DOHC (double overhead cam shaft) with offset crank shaft, resulting in better volumetric efficiency, improved power and FE, high compression ratio, plastic intake manifolds for reducing weight and suction losses, smart distributor-less ignition (SDLi) system with dedicated plug top coils and advanced injector for superior atomisation. The engine oil in the new technology K10B engine is required to be changed only after 10,000 km which reduces its running cost.

http://www.domain-b.com/companies/companies_m/Maruti/20090825_new_estilo.html

Maruti Suzuki India launches Estilo with K-series engine and bold new design

2009-09-03T01:23:00.001-07:00

New Delhi, August 25, 2009: Maruti Suzuki India Limited, country's leading car maker, launched the Estilo with all-new overall looks and advanced technological features at a glittering ceremony here today.

The Estilo represents Maruti Suzuki matching pace with the changing taste and lifestyle of 'Vibrant India'. The bolder new Estilo, designed to meet the aspirations of the Indian customer, is a heady-mix of sculpted features, bold designs, new exciting colours.

Leading the advanced technological features on the new Estilo are a new engine and a transmission system. Equipped with the popular 998cc K-series engine, the Estilo delivers a superior fuel efficiency of 18.2 kmpl (ARAI test results). This BSIV compliant engine makes the Estilo the second car in Maruti Suzuki stable that meets the BSIV norms much ahead of the effective date, April 2010.

The new Estilo comes with new efficient transmission technology and advanced 'Detent pin' gear shift mechanism for smooth and precise gear shift feeling for the customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, "The new Estilo, with a new technology engine and a new transmission, is sure to delight the customer. We are confident that the new Estilo with its bolder new design and interiors will add to the competitive edge of Maruti Suzuki in compact car segment."

On the refreshed Estilo, that packages contemporary features and style with next generation technology, he added, "Product upgradation is an integral part of Maruti Suzuki's business strategy and future plans. This is a way to include feedback from the customers and offer better products that match their tastes."

The compact hatchback new Estilo is a part of the growing A2 compact segment where Maruti Suzuki is the established market leader with a market share of 58 per cent.

Superior technology Engine

The Maruti Suzuki new Estilo houses the K-series 'K10B' engine under the hood. The 998cc three-cylinder engine delivers a power of 68 PS@ 6200rpm and a higher torque of 90Nm @ 3500rpm. The improved engine technology enables more power, low NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) and the lighter weight of the engine helps to increase the fuel efficiency with lower emissions. The new Estilo comes with ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 18.2 kmpl.

Technical highlights of the K10B engine include DOHC (Double Overhead Cam shaft) with offset crank shaft, resulting in better volumetric efficiency, improved power and FE, high compression ratio, plastic intake manifolds for reducing weight and suction losses, Smart Distributor-less ignition (SDLi) system with dedicated plug top coils and advanced injector for superior atomization. The engine oil in the new technology K10B engine is required to be changed only after 10,000 km thus lowering the running cost.

Environment friendly

The new Estilo is the second model from the Maruti Suzuki stable which is BSIV compliant, thanks to the K series engine. The Estilo is also ELV compliant and 89% of the parts are environment friendly meeting ELV norms. Further, to take on the forthcoming norms of 10% Ethanol blending of petrol, the new Estilo is also E-10 compliant. Maruti Suzuki is bringing these environment-friendly features to its range of cars much ahead of the industry adopting these norms.

Superior Transmission

A new transmission technology and a number of innovations make the new Estilo a combination of power and pleasure.

The new Estilo comes with a new Cable-type transmission technology. The five-speed manual gear with synchromesh is now changed to Cable type as against Rod-type, mechanical transmission earlier. This new transmission reduces the gear shifting effort in the new Estilo, by reducing mechanical losses.

The new Estilo has been fitted with an advanced 'detent pin' gear shift and select mechanism. This mechanism eliminates the sliding friction (or line contact) between parts and provides rolling friction (or point contact). This technology, in turn, facilitates smoother transition of gears, and is a first among all Maruti Suzuki products.

These engineering changes, based on customer feedback, provide gear shift assistance for the driver (the gear smoothly goes into its position with minimal effort of the driver). The mechanism reduces the friction and hysteresis losses, thereby proving smooth and precise shifting of gears. It also removes the feeling of stickiness during gear shift process.

Safety, Security & Comfort

The new Estilo is high on safety, security and comfort.

Improved occupant safety in the form of increase in the frontal impact absorbing area, as the distance between steering wheel and front bumper is increased.

The VXi variant comes equipped with front and rear fog lamps, rear wiper and washer. Safety features like Airbag (driver side) and ABS are provided as option in the VXi variant.

In terms of vehicle security the VXi variant comes with i-CATS integrated keys, five-door central locking and anti-theft alarm.

Rear parcel shelf adds to the passenger convenience and comfort in the VXi variant. Based on customer feedback, the suspension of the new Estilo has been fine tuned to provide improved ride and handling.

Compact and Convenient

The new Estilo has got a minimum ground clearance of 165 mm and wheelbase of 2360 mm. The tight turning radius of 4.6 meters makes the Estilo a favored car in tight parking and driving conditions.

Vibrant design, styling and looks

In its refreshed avatar, the new Estilo flaunts expressive, bold frontline looks owing to new swept-back headlamps, dynamic front and rear bumpers, sculpted fog lamp surrounds and a new hood design with crease lines. The rich chrome detailing in the grille and the stylish wheel covers add to the premium feel and the overall appeal of the vehicle. The side door mouldings and ORVM's have been given a new design to add to the bold looks.

The interiors of the new Estilo have been done up in a posh-looking two-tone beige/chocolate brown complimentary combination, which adds to the refreshing feel inside the vehicle. The seat-covers, embossed with new organically designed geometric patterns heighten the posh looks of the car's interiors.

The dash-board is in a dual tone chocolate brown and beige combination with new attractive and bright silver accent prominently on the center console, instruments cluster, steering wheel, AC louvers and gear knob. The instrument panel has an all new design speedometer, digital fuel level indicator and multi-function display.

Vivacious new colours

The new Estilo is available in three exciting variants: LX, LXi and VXi in four brand new colours:

New	Ecru Beige	Emerald Blue	Dusky Brown	Quantum Orange
Existing	Silky Silver	Superior White	Bright Red	Midnight Black

Price: Introductory Prices of Maruti Suzuki RITZ in NEW DELHI are:

Introductory Prices
Model	City	Ex-Showroom (Rs)
Estilo Lx	New Delhi	3.12 lacs
Estilo LXi	New Delhi	3.40 lacs
Estilo VXi	New Delhi	3.66 lacs

The stock was trading at Rs.1426.60, down by Rs.5.25 or 0.37%. The stock hit an intraday high of Rs.1448 and low of Rs.1415.80.

The total traded quantity was 92100 compared to 2 week average of 176850.
http://www.equitybulls.com/admin/news2006/news_det.asp?id=59640

The World’s Cheapest Car - Tata Nano

2009-08-18T02:16:00.000-07:00

A lot is riding on the the world’s cheapest car. In the words of Ratan Tata, chairman of the company behind the upstart econobox, India’s “People’s Car” will be a “safe, affordable, all weather vehicle for a family which is today traveling on a two wheeler.” The entry level model is ticketed at just over $2,500 — or the equivalent of 100,000 rupees or one Lakh — a revolutionary price where the average lower middle class income is $200 a month. (For comparison’s sake, in the early 1970s, Honda introduced affordable, good quality Civics at about $2,200, which adjusted for inflation would now be nearly $10,500.) It could well be one of the most important cars ever designed

The car emerged at a much-anticipated launch on Thursday: a cute, short thing, with four doors, tiny wheels placed out at the far corners of the body and what looked like plenty of room inside. The Nano has just enough space for a briefcase or small bag under the hood. The engine — all two cylinders, 624cc and 33 horsepower of it — is in the back, just like the Volkswagen Beetle of old. The speedometer and other instruments cluster in a central pod in the middle of the dashboard rather than directly in front of the driver, the easier (and cheaper) to offer both left- and right-hand versions when Tata Motors starts exporting the car to Southeast Asia and Africa in a couple of years. The top third of the over-sized headlights act as the turn signals (indicators) and look like cheeky yellow eyebrows above the main lights. It has a top speed of about 60 miles per hour. “Car companies are in probably the most emotive business area that one can find apart from fashion,” company chairman Ratan Tata told TIME a day before the big launch. “There will be people who say it looks like a toy, but if you consider the value proposition I think the car is great.” (See the 50 worst cars of all time.)

Tata hopes the Nano will help millions of poor people around the world — the “Bottom of the Pyramid” in developing world marketing-speak —switch from two wheels to four. Environmentalists, city planners and even some competitors, on the other hand, warn that the new vehicle will clog up India’s crowded roads and add clouds of pollution to its already filthy air.

Ratan Tata emphasized that the new car complies with India’s emissions laws and even with Europe’s much stronger Euro 4 standards. Emissions, Tata says, are “lower than a scooter’s today”. The company claims the car will also deliver 50 miles per gallon, or better than 20 kilometers per liter, which would make it one of India’s most efficient vehicles, and vastly more efficient than the average in the U.S. Chief U.N. climate scientist Rajendra Pachauri, who shared last year’s Nobel Peace Prize with Al Gore, said recently that he was “having nightmares” about the low-cost car. “Dr. Pachauri need not have nightmares,” said Ratan Tata at today’s unveiling. “For us it’s a milestone and I hope we can make a contribution to the country.”

But with India’s road infrastructure struggling to keep up with explosive growth in car sales, won’t the new Tata just add to the country’s road hassles? That’s a problem the Indian government has to deal with, not manufacturers, Tata said. “We’d certainly be concerned if our vehicle created absolute chaos all across India,” he told one questioner who complained that his morning journey of a few miles across Delhi took over an hour. “But if you had chaos today and it did not include our vehicles, then I would suggest the problem has to do with something else besides the presence or absence of our vehicles.” India, he agreed, “does desperately need mass transit systems… both within cities and between cities.” But poor Indian families also have a right to what millions take for granted elsewhere in the world. “Should they be denied the right to independent transport?”

Eventually, Tata Motors hopes to sell a million Nanos a year. Even before it goes on sale, though, it has become an important symbol of an emerging trend in the developing world, a new brand of innovation that makes more out of less and engineers clever but cheap fixes to problems that Western companies might throw expensive technology at.

The head of the Nano team says Tata Motors has applied for 34 patents on various components and design features on the new car, though he was short on specifics. The car reportedly uses super strong glue rather than welds in some joints — a technique that a handful of other car makers have used before, though perhaps never as extensively. Tata Motors’ cost-cutting drive was relentless: the windshield has just one washer rather than two, the metal steering column was hollowed out to save on steel, cheaper bearings — strong enough to perform well up to (70 kph) but fast wearing beyond that — may be used rather than more expensive components. “It’s a very tight package,” Ratan Tata said. Given the steep rise in the cost of steel, rubber and other inputs in the past few years, it’s possible that the entry level Nano might not break even, though Tata made a point of saying the “one lakh” price tag in India will stay because “a promise is a promise”. The car, the company says, will make money across its various models.

The Indian magnate, who has hinted he will soon retire, sees the Nano as an evolution rather than a revolution. “What is revolutionary anyway?” he asked TIME before the launch. “If you asked me would it be possible to build a lower cost car than this — a car say for 50,000 rupees [$1,300] — I might be driven to say, ‘Yes, it might be possible.’” He pauses for a few seconds. “I don’t think anything’s impossible.” The half lakh car anyone?

http://www.divinediary.com/2009/08/the-worlds-cheapest-car-tata-nano/

Famous Rolls-Royce Vintage Cars From India On Sale

2009-08-18T02:10:00.000-07:00

Hans-Günther Zach is not a new name for Rolls-Royce loyalists. Well, for those of you who aren’t let us tell you that this man is famous for his own museum that is dedicated to the well-known marque in Main, Germany. And now he is planning to sell off his entire collection including the very famous Star of India. This is a one of its kind vintage 1934 Phanton II 40/50 HP Continental ‘All-Weather Convertible’ that was custom made for the Maharaja of Rajkot.

The car is tOuted as the most expensive in the world as it would fetch nothing less than €10 million. Zach is accpeting bids all through September for his other cars too that include 24 Rolls-Royces, 3 Bentleys and a 1926 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP I Open Tourer that was put togethe for the Maharaja of Nanpara; this one is better known as the Aluminum Sculpture wing to his highly polished aluminum body and chassis.

You would say that Zach was truly taken over by the Indian fetish for Rolls-Royce. Well, you won’t be wrong for there is a third car too that belonged to the Maharajah of Rewa. Called the Hunting Car, it is a Phantom II Cabriolet. Again, Zach is also selling a 1920 40/50 Silver Ghost Coupé de Ville made for Jean Hennessy.

http://elitechoice.org/2009/08/03/famous-rolls-royce-vintage-cars-from-india-on-sale/

Tata Nano says tata to wait list

2009-07-31T08:22:00.000-07:00

Finally consumers in India can get their hands on a Tata Nano microcar.

After production delays, due mainly to factory land and location controversies and a lot of hoopla the Nano is trickling into the eager hands of consumers via lottery, the first of over 200,000 orders. The car is marketed to replace bicycles, rickshaws, scooters and motorcycles. For the vast majority of consumers in India it is their first car.

The car which has an ugly duckling cute factor is spartan compared to other cars on the road such as Toyota Yaris and smart car. It does have three trim levels which like any other line of car gives more features as you move up. The powertrain in all trims is a small air cooled 2 banger with 4 speed stick shift which tops out around 65 mph and returns 50 mpg. Stopping is via four wheel drum brakes. Of course this car is $2,055 US dollars (base). For perspective this car is $1,944 cheaper than what a $3,999 Yugo GV sold for back in 1986 in the United States, even in 1986 money that was bargain basement.

The trim lines are Nano base, CX and LX. Moving through the trim lines adds things such as more color choices, delay wiper, rear headrests, A/C with heater (not on base), central door locks, locking passenger door (LX), wheel covers, reclining seats and nicer console with cigar lighter. Click here for a side by side comparison of trim levels.

Safety? Well lets just say ABS and air bags are not included/available at any price level. Interestingly enough, Nano is smart car like with larger rear/smaller front tires, P155 and P135 respectively for traction.

Many wonder will this little bugger make it to the United States? Probably if it does well in Europe first. There will have to be modifications of course. Airbags will have to be made standard and structural enhancements performed just to pass crash tests. A bigger engine with more power will be required so the car can venture onto Interstates. More standard features will be needed to add appeal like power steering. And a dealer network will have to be established. It would be interesting if they can keep the price around say, the $4,000 to $5,000 dollar range.

Questions persist. Will this car be bad for the environment even with emission controls and so many people slated to buy? Will Tata make money since car companies never see large profits on entry level cars? Will this be the first phase of Tata coming to America? Will this hurt them in terms of prestige since they own high end nameplates such as Jaguar and Land Rover?

http://www.examiner.com/x-6812-Newark-Alternative-Transportation-Examiner~y2009m7d17-Tata-Nano-says-tata-to-wait-list

Tata Motors net profit jumps 57.5 percent

2009-07-31T08:21:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI - Auto major Tata Motors Monday reported 57.5 percent surge in its net profit at Rs.513.7 crore (Rs.107 million) for the quarter ended June 30, as compared to Rs.326.11 crore in the like period last fiscal.

Total income, however, decreased 7 percent to Rs.6,723.9 crore from Rs.7,244 crore, the company said in a regulatory statement.

“Improvement in liquidity, increased reach across the country and introduction of new products and variants improved the company’s sales, except in the case of the heavy truck segment, it added.

The company reported a marginal decrease of 1.4 percent in domestic sales at 122,120 vehicles.

“The exports at 5,220 vehicles continued to be severely impacted (negative 43 percent) in the wake of continuing tumultous global environment resulting in total sales volume at 127,340 vehicles, a decline of 4.3 percent, the company added.

The auto giant, which owns luxury car brands Jaguar and Land Rover and recently launched the world’s most inexpensive car Nano, said its passenger vehicle sales declined 10 percent in the domestic market to 45,846 units.

http://blog.taragana.com/n/tata-motors-net-profit-jumps-575-percent-121730/

The Indian Car Promise

2009-07-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

India is no China when it comes to cars, but then again, it's almost time for the $2,000 Nano.

What's the potential car market in India? Many of us were tied to the past. We thought of India, and we saw sacred cows, elephants, jammed streets, slums, beggars and millions of people dressed like Gunga Din. Then we saw Slumdog Millionaire, and we saw skyscrapers and luxury homes and cars. So what's the story? Is India another China when it comes to cars?

In fact, the car market in India is still largely a promise. Car sales have grown, yes, but they are still a fraction of China's vigorous market. This year's sales may push past 1.6 million cars and light commercial trucks. That's double the 800,000 of 2002--but it still isn't that many. And Western companies are extremely small in India, unlike in China, which might be the world's No. 1 vehicle manufacturer this year.

To make this clear, look at four-month sales through April: 649,000 cars and light trucks in India compared with 3.7 million in China. And China's sales are still climbing, while India is flat. Mind you, flat isn't bad this year, unless compared with China.

Who sells there? A Suzuki ( SZKMF.PK - news - people ) partnership called Marudi Suzuki is the dominant player, with 43% of the market. Next is the Korean Hyundai Group with 14%. But our big players are minor actors in India. Honda ( HMC - news - people ) accounted for only 22,000 car sales in the first quarter, General Motors' ( GMGMQ.PK - news - people ) Chevrolet (also from Korea) 19,000, Toyota ( TM - news - people ) 13,000 and Ford Motor ( F - news - people ) 10,000.

Check the first four months' car production. These production figures come from J.D. Power, which does a thorough job of collecting numbers from India and China.
http://www.forbes.com/2009/06/30/flint-india-cars-business-autos-backseat-driver.html

Can India really afford cheap cars?

2009-06-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

The news that GM India is poised to launch a 'two-lakh' car took me back to an incident in Lucknow in March
last year.

I had almost tripped over a scooter lying on its side in the dust, its front wheel still spinning. Moments before it had been carrying a family of four, plus chicken. Now, they were all on the ground, except the chicken which had run away.

You can't travel long on India's crowded roads without stumbling on a crash of some sort. This Lucknow family just lost a chicken. About 90,000 people lose their lives on the roads every year — and only 5% of them are in cars.

Hence, of course, the appeal of the one-lakh Nano, and of GM's slightly pricier competitor, promising as they do to put relatively safe motoring within reach of tens of millions of ordinary families.

Less appealing, of course, is the projected surge in pollution. If these cars sell in anything like the numbers their manufacturers hope, they will catapult India into the premier league of carbon emitters — casting doubt on the country's new-found commitment to tackle global warming.

Once the climate cost is factored in, there's no such thing as a cheap car. India is acutely vulnerable to climate chaos, and some of the very same people who'll benefit from the Nano will also lose out as wild weather wreaks havoc on the country's agriculture.

Does safer, smoother travel for middle-income Indian families have to come at the price of the planet? Do we always have to choose between protecting the environment and lifting people out of poverty? Not a bit of it. There's growing evidence that smart innovation can make life sweeter as well as more sustainable. Forward-looking think tanks like Malini Mehra's Centre for Social Markets, or Forum for the Future in the UK, argue that the best hope to win public support in the fight against climate change is to focus on this 'opportunity agenda'.

So, how could this apply to the Nano? Petrol-powered, it's a great social revolution, yes — but an electric Nano could be all of that and an environmental one, too. It would be ideally suited to the sort of short, urban hops that will constitute the vast majority of its use, so its limited range wouldn't be a problem. It could be recharged by solar power while its owner is at work or even out in the fields. Standing idle, the Nano's battery could trickle power into the grid — helping to smooth out the network's notorious instability.

And the innovation doesn't have to stop there. You might not be able to afford an electric Nano — but why own something that you don't use every day? So what about a state-sponsored Tata Zero Carbon Car Club, of the sort springing up across European neighbourhoods, giving people the benefits of using a vehicle when they need it, without the hassle and cost of owning one when they don't? It could help cut congestion, too: all the evidence suggests that car club members drive less than private car owners — because they don't feel they have to justify their hefty investment in their vehicle by using it in preference to the bus or metro.

But surely all this simply wouldn't be affordable? Well, not necessarily — not if the government grasped the nettle of subsidy reductions on the one hand, and carbon trading on the other.

The government spends billions of dollars a year on fuel subsidies — effectively making pollution cheap. If some of that went instead to developing 21st century clean transport — both personal and mass transit — it could bring dividends. After all, as the age of cheap 'easy' oil stutters to a close, investing heavily in fossil-fuelled infrastructure now is about as visionary as sinking your fortune into sailing ships 100 years or so back.

The dawn of a worldwide carbon market really can't come too soon for India. With its per capita emissions a fraction of those of the West — and even China — the country could expect to earn billions from selling carbon credits. That could be another source of revenue for cleantech R&D — and another source of opportunity for Indian business, as it fights to compete in a low-carbon global economy.

It all calls for fresh, not to say courageous, thinking — always a rarity in politics. But the Nano might help here, albeit in unintended ways. If a swarm of the one lakh miracles slows the pace of the capital's traffic from sluggish to stationary, it might convince even the most sceptical minister that there has, surely, to be a better way.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/All-That-Matters/Can-India-really-afford-cheap-cars/articleshow/4653456.cms

'Indian customers are smart buyers’

2009-06-07T00:07:00.000-07:00

Honda Siel Cars India president and CEO Masahiro Takedagawa has been managing activities of the Honda group in India and Asia Oceania region for

the past three-and-a-half years. Mr Takedagawa outlines Honda’s plans for India and the launch of the premium small car, Jazz. Excerpts:
What technology do you plan to bring with the Jazz?

First of all, Jazz is a sister car of the City that was very well received in the Indian market. The platform of the cars is almost same. However, driveability of Jazz will be different. It will be very sporty. In terms of utility, it offers plenty of legroom and cargo space.

There has been much experimentation with the styling of the Jazz. Will there be many variants of the car?

There will be only one variant initially. It is a different car and will set new standards for the hatchback segment. It’s a shift from our policy for the City and the Civic. Of course, there will be many options for colours. This is to minimise the level of stocks which dealers or suppliers have to keep for several variants.

What is the progress on the diesel version of the City and the Jazz for the Asian market?

We have around 400 engineers, who are free from F-1 activities to develop small diesel engine, power train as well as next generation hybrid engines. As already announced, a small diesel engine project has been kicked off. We are working on different engine sizes and development could take 2-3 years.

What would be your strategy to ensure stable demand for the Jazz?

The market has changed due to the economic slowdown and the depreciation of the rupee. We are achieving above 70% of localisation. The components used in the Jazz are same as in the City. However, the Jazz will benefit from the lower excise duty allowed on small cars. Jazz will give the best fuel efficiency in that segment. We will target those customers who appreciate the drive. Indian customers are smart buyers and they appreciate the value given by Honda.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Interview/Masahiro-Takedagawa-President--CEO-Honda-Siel-Cars-India/articleshow/4586653.cms

Hyundai adds to its alternate fuel range

2009-05-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

Launches Accent LPG variant with unlimited 2 Year Warranty offer
21 May 2009 , New Delhi : Hyundai Motor India Ltd., the country’s largest passenger car exporter and the second largest car manufacturer, as part of its initiative to promote eco-friendly and non-polluting means of transport, today launched its LPG variant of the very popular Accent. The LPG, bi-fuel variant will be priced at Rs 533,900 which is Rs 34,900 more than the existing petrol model and it is fitted with an engine immobilizer as a standard fitment for added security.

The new LPG version of Accent, named as Accent eco (eco is synonymous with environmentally friendly and economy) comes with a factory fitted LPG kit approved and certified by the Department of Explosives (DOE) and Automotive research Authority of India (ARAI), the country’s premier automobile testing and certifying authority.

Powered by the 1.5 litre engine which is mated to a 5 speed, manual Transmission, the Accent eco offers its customers a unique combination of safe and reliable performance with an unmatched fuel economy. With separate Petrol (45 Litre) and LPG (27.2 litre) fuel tanks, the customers has an option to choose from both LPG and petrol driving mode. The LPG tank in the Accent eco has a special ‘Toroidal’ design that allows intelligent use of space and makes for a larger luggage room available to the customer.

Announcing the launch, HMIL, Managing Director, H S Lheem, said, “The Accent has always been a very strong product in its segment. Earlier we had introduced it with a CNG kit and our customers found it to be a really attractive proposition, as it has all one can look for in this class of cars. The LPG version will only add to the appeal of Accent, as it will not only be cheaper to run and maintain but also eco friendly. At our end, we have ensured that Accent LPG meets all the safety standards as our customers need to be assured of the safety and reliability of our products that we offer to them.”

The factory-fitted LPG kit in the Accent eco enjoys a full 2 year manufacturer warranty benefits thus ensuring enhanced peace of mind for the customers. Accent eco also boasts of the lowest greenhouse gas emission as it emits lower CO2, as compared to the petrol version of the car, hence making it extremely environmentally friendly.

Other highlights of the Accent eco includes reduced engine maintenance, longer life of spark plug and engine, less frequent change of engine oil, safe and reliable. In addition to that, the car offers ample luggage space, smart and ergonomic design and efficient performance. Hyundai in keeping to its high safety standards ensures that the car goes through LPG leakage detection test thrice before it is delivered to customers and has a special filler cap inside the LPG lining to prevent wear and tear of the parts. HMIL offers the Santro in CNG and LPG variants and now the Accent LPG adds to its range of offerings in the alternative fuel cars. The Accent CNG was launched in June, 2008.

About HMIL
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea and is the second largest car manufacturer and the largest passenger car exporter from India. HMIL presently markets 33 variants of passenger cars across segments. The Santro in the B segment, the Getz Prime, i10 and the Premium hatchback i20 in the B+ segment, the Accent and the Verna in the C segment, the Sonata in the E segment and the Tucson in the SUV segment.

Hyundai Motor India, continuing its tradition of being the fastest growing passenger car manufacturer, registering total sales of 489,328 vehicles in the calendar year (CY) 2008, an increase of 49.6 percent over CY 2007. In the domestic market it clocked a growth of 22.4 percent as compared to 2007 with 245,397 units, while overseas sales grew by 92.5 percent, with exports of 243,931 units.

HMIL`s fully integrated state-of-the-art manufacturing plant near Chennai boasts of the most advanced production, quality and testing capabilities in the country. In continuation of its commitment to provide the Indian customer with global technology, HMIL commissioned its second plant in February 2008 which produces an additional 300,000 units per annum, raising HMIL`s total production capacity to 600,000 units per annum.

HMIL has invested to expand capacity in line with its positioning as HMC`s global export hub for compact cars. Apart from the expansion of production capacity, HMIL currently has 253 strong dealer network across India, which will be further bolstered in 2009.
In 2008, HMIL also successfully completed 10 glorious years of operations in India and to commemorate its achievements, initiated a unique trans-continental drive from Delhi to Paris in two of its hugely popular i10 Kappa cars. The drive created automobile history by completing a distance of 10,000km in just 17 days after which the i10s were showcased at the Paris Motor Show in October. In fact it was at the Paris Motor Show that HMIL first unveiled the Hyundai i20 and the car received a phenomenal response from the auto enthusiasts across the world. Hyundai Motor India also accomplished the landmark of producing the fastest 20th lakh cars in India in 2008.

Like 2008, the year 2007 had also been a significant year for Hyundai Motor India. It achieved a significant milestone by rolling out the fastest 400,000th export car. Hyundai exported to over 100 countries globally; even as it plans to continue its thrust in existing export markets, it is gearing up to step up its foray into new markets. 2007 also saw the launch of the i10 and yet another path-breaking record in its young journey by rolling out the fastest 1,500,000th car.
Hyundai`s new model i10 made a clean sweep of all the `Car of the Year 2008` awards from the leading automotive magazines and TV channels like BS Motoring, CNBC-TV18 AutoCar, NDTV Profit Car & Bike India and Overdrive magazine. The i10 was also the choice of the discerning automotive media of the country as they conferred the prestigious `Indian Car of the Year` (ICOTY) award to the i10 as well.

The Santro and the Accent also received the `TNS Voice of the Customer - 2008` award for the Premium Compact Car (Santro) and the Entry Mid size Car (Accent). In March 2008 it achieved yet another milestone by rolling out the fastest 500,000th export car.

In 2007, the Hyundai Verna had also bagged some of the most prestigious awards starting with the Overdrive magazine`s `Car of the Year 2007`, the `Best Mid-size Car of the Year` award from NDTV Profit Car & Bike India, the `Best Value for Money Car` from CNBC Autocar and `Performance Car of the Year` from Business Standard Motoring.

Hyundai cars have been a favorite at all awards ceremonies and has won many awards. The Sonata Embera won the `Executive Car of The Year 2006` award from Business Standard Motoring magazine and NDTV Profit Car & Bike India had declared the Tucson as the `SUV of The Year 2006`.

Not only this, HMIL has also been awarded the benchmark ISO 14001 certification for its sustainable environment management practices.

Corporate website: www.hyundai.co.in

Want a Tata Nano? Get In Line Behind 200,000 Indian Buyers

2009-05-17T04:46:00.000-07:00

Tata Motors

The Tata Nano, India's equivalent of the Ford Model T a century later, finally went on sale on April 9th. And while it may not seem like much of a car to US buyers, more than 200,000 eager Indian buyers put down deposits for cars that won't be delivered for as long as two years.

And that should be a relief to Tata, whose $2 billion purchase of Jaguar Land Rover from Ford Motor Company last August couldn't have come at a worse time, just weeks before the global auto market began to implode. Deposits of roughly 90 percent for confirmed Nano orders have added $500 million to company coffers (though of course they'll have to spend most of that money to build the cars).

And in a first for any Indian car, roughly 4,000 were ordered and paid for online, via the Tata Nano website.

According to Tata, in just two weeks, it received 203,000 paid orders and sold another 600,000 booking forms for the car. The first year's production of 50,000 cars from a factory in Pantnagar will be delivered starting in July. They and another 50,000 Nanos from a factory--which had to be relocated from Singur to Gujarat after protests over land seizures--will be allocated among paid-up buyers by lottery.

Proving the allure of optional equipment, just one of five Nanos ordered are the bare-bones Nano Standard model, costing $2,000. Another 30 percent are the mid-level Nano CX, which adds air-conditioning and power brakes, but fully half the buyers paid for the top-of-the-line Nano LX, which tops out at $3,300. That model has electric windows and door locks, nicer trim, body-colored bumpers, and more.

The Nano has gotten good reviews, from a first ride report in December to more recent full road tests. They pretty much add up to: "Yep, it's a real car. Handles decently, not that fast, fits four adults. Gee, that's pretty amazing, isn't it?"

While Tata will have its hands full with home-market orders for a couple of years, it's moving ahead aggressively with plans to sell the Nano in Europe and perhaps even in the United States. For reference, the Nano is 10 feet long, longer than the two-seat 2009 Smart ForTwo but shorter than a 2009 Mini Cooper.

Tata Nano Europa at Geneva Auto Show

Smart Cars in Metro Detroit: Still Smart?

2009-04-24T00:43:00.000-07:00

Enroute to winning $448,000 on the Los Angeles set of NBC game show Deal or No Deal last October, Tommy Knowlton scored something bigger than the briefcases of buckos on offer: It looks like a dinosaur's roller skate, but runs on a 1-liter, 3-cylinder engine. It has environmental sex appeal. Oh, and it takes two of these cuties to fill one parking space.

"Before they revealed the car, they said to me, 'The challenge is, all you need to do is get in it. You have to get in and shut the door, if you can fit inside it's yours'…So I walked right down there and with ease just got in it and shut the door and they said it was mine, free and clear," recalls the pharmacy technician from Sterling Heights.

He knew the smart fortwo – at just over eight feet long and five feet wide, a weehicle by any measure – was his for the taking. He'd already comfortably slid his six-three, 400-pound frame into the two-seater on display at the Detroit auto show.

Over the last 5,000 miles on the road, he and his wheels have been regularly recognized and photographed – and admired. "All the girls think it's so cute!" he claims.

Knowlton also owns a Chrysler 300C, but commutes to work at Beaumont Hospital in his babe-magnet black Passion Coupe. Off duty, he cruises with his six-foot-plus, 300-pound buddies. (One passenger at a time, please).

A brake on gas

Bloomfield Hills-based Smart USA, a division of Penske Automotive Group, is the exclusive U.S. distributor for the brand owned by Daimler AG and manufactured in France. The ballyhoo? At EPA ratings of 33 mpg in the city and 41 on the highway, the smart fortwo gets the highest mileage of any gasoline-powered vehicle in the United States; comparable to a hybrid, but without the cost premium, Rick Cortwright, brand manager at smart center Bloomfield, says.

As such, the smart fortwo's share of the Compact Basic Car segment has nearly doubled in the U.S. – from 3.3% in March 2008 to 6.3% in March 2009, according to the Power Information Network. Parked an average of just 29 days on dealer lots, it's a top 10 hot model for March 2009.

Itty-bitty, inexpensive, and fuel-frugal are the operative words the world over. Similar in appearance but slightly larger than the smart (it holds four people), the Tata Nano, at about $2,500 the world's cheapest new car, is now available for sale exclusively in India.

Without the winning prize, the three models – the Pure Coupe, the Passion Coupe, and the Passion Cabriolet – are base priced at $12-17,000. A fully loaded Cabriolet runs just over $20,000, Cortright says. Not quite nano-level, but not otherworldly.

While cars are typically sold through an online reservation system, where $99 gets your order in with options to customize, smart center Bloomfield (Michigan's sole outlet) has stock now for clients flexible with colors and options. Delivery used to take about a year, but the economic slowdown now equates to a 5-month wait, Cortright says.

While Italy is the top market for the vehicle, in the United States "We're perfectly happy to fill 25-30,000 vehicles a year, which is what we can get in allocation from the assembly plant, and as far as Detroit is concerned it does just as well as most markets," Cortright observes. "We've sold beyond our planning volumes in Detroit. We were expecting short of 800 the first year and we sold over 800, so we're very pleased."

There is no typical buyer, he says. Baby boomers, urban dwellers, and commuters all find room in this buggy. "Something like 70% of all vehicles are driven with one occupant. It works extremely well as an add-on or second vehicle for a lot of homes."

Revving up recycling

The car, which is 95% recyclable, has a big following among green enthusiasts, Cortright adds. The entire manufacturing process is green-driven, from the construction of the plant to its exterior grounds, which eschew manicured lawns in favor of more natural vegetation, to the powder-coat painting process, which eliminates overspray.

Environmental considerations were top priority when Linda Diane Feldt, a holistic health practitioner from Ann Arbor, made her purchase decision. "I was looking for something very fuel-efficient and very safe, and then the environmental practices of how it's built and their consistency at every stage of the process was extremely impressive. And that includes the dealership, which is selling it from a LEED-certified building." She notes one drawback: the carbon footprint of shipping the car to the U.S. from France.

Her Passion Coupe is metallic blue with black exterior trim, red interior, and a WIZDOM vanity plate. She's driven her primary car about 1,600 miles thus far, at up to 38 mpg in the city. She also has a 14-year-old pickup truck, but the smart feels roomier to her. It handles well on snow and ice, and fits in parking spots half-filled with snow, she says.

Moreover, the social benefits of being the runt of the road are hardly miniscule. It helped her get a date – plus an unexpected burst of affection. A woman ran up and hugged the car when Feldt rolled into the drive-in section of Ann Arbor's Downtown Home and Garden store.

Curb appeal

Cortright says it's common to see the smart backed or pulled into a parallel parking spot; at just over eight feet, its length is similar to the width of many cars. And in 90 minutes, barely more time than it takes to change your hairstyle, the co-polymer body panels can be switched out for those of another color – a good disguise for hiding from the police.

According to Metromode's unscientific survey of the owners featured here, with 12 cubic feet of storage space, the cargo area holds everything from a gaggle of groceries to a 32-inch TV (with front seat folded flat) to a 65-pound dog. On the minus side, the car lacks a tilt wheel, armrest, cruise control, and spare tire (it comes with an air pump as a temporary fix). The plusses? All cited the interior roominess and the fun factor of ownership.

The brand has its own social networking website that serves as a hub for Michigan owners to trade tips and make play dates. At last year's Grand Prix on Belle Isle, 45 cars took a lap on the racetrack. And 80 vehicles rode in a caravan in the Woodward Dream Cruise.

Dream cruiser Mark Carlson (aka Mr. Incredible) has gotten up to 45 mpg in his Passion Coupe. It's been a heroic year for the engineer and wanna-be comedian from Bloomfield Hills. He's put 22,000 miles on his ride (including a trip to Florida); been photographed in caped costume; and completely made over his Incredible Mobile. He switched the body panels from white to red, black powder-coated the wheels, painted the brakes yellow, and added an Incredible logo and NCRDBLE license plate.

Carlson, who also owns a Jeep and two minivans, says that until 2007, his auto purchases had been strictly "pragmatic", but the smart car's entertainment value clinched the deal. While driving through Chrysler property recently, "I come to a stoplight and there are two geese by the side of the road. Their heads are following my car. Everybody looks at this car, even the geese." They didn't honk, but "they gandered."

Apparently, even the geese see that micro-compact fuel-sippers may really be overtaking our streets. Feldt hopes so, but also envisions a larger road map. "I'd like to see a combination of Zipcars, the co-ownership of larger vehicles, small cars for commuting, and access to vans and larger cars for families that need them... So a whole system that has greater mass transportation and co-using, sharing either commercially or privately, is the future. But certainly, small safe commuter cars are an essential component."
http://www.metromodemedia.com/features/smartcarsdetroit0113.aspx

Now on sale: The Tata Nano

2009-04-17T23:06:00.000-07:00

Tata Motors has begun taking orders for its Nano minicar.

The Indian automaker on Thursday opened up its booking system for the high-profile Nano, which it has pitched as the "people's car"--a first automobile for families that, until now, have had to crowd onto a scooter. There are only approximately nine vehicles per 1,000 people in India, according to the Reuters news agency.

The deluxe version of the Tata Nano (photo from January 2008).

(Credit: Tata Motors)

Bookings will close in just more than two weeks, on April 25. The company had made application forms for bookings available at the beginning of the month and said the response has been "very encouraging."

Priced starting at about $2,000 for the standard version, the Tata Nano is a very modest machine. It's about 10 feet long, weighing in at about 1,300 pounds, and Tata says it can "comfortably" seat four adults. The top speed for the car, which has a two-cylinder, 624-cc, rear-mounted engine, is about 65 miles per hour. The gas mileage is said to be about 56 miles per gallon.

Prospective buyers seemed most attracted by the low price (only about three times that of a low-end scooter), according to a Reuters report.

"I have experienced other foreign small cars," Denis Quadros, 42, who owns a Maruti Wagon R, told Reuters. "They are expensive to maintain and consume a lot of fuel. But look at Nano's mileage, and we know Tata cars are cheaper on maintenance."

Tata plans to begin delivering the cars in July.

But even then, there could be a long wait for those who've booked a Nano order. At the end of June, Tata plans to announce the allotment of the first 100,000 cars, as determined by a computerized random selection. News agencies reported that it will likely take Tata more than a year to fill the 100,000 orders.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10216340-1.html

Segway and GM Unveil Two Wheel Electric “Car” of the Future

2009-04-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

Is it a marketing exercise for a firm desperate to show it’s environmental and innovation credentials, or is it a clever and viable new city transport option that could be the way of the future? What are we talking about? Segway-GM’s PUMA (Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility Vehicle) – a two-wheeled, two-seat electric car designed to drive on its own and automatically avoid collisions.

Weighing in at just 600 pounds and powered by lithium ion batteries, the PUMA can travel 35 miles on a single four hour charge costing about $.35-.50 cents (depending on whose details you believe). Like the Segway scooter, the vehicle balances on two wheels with the help of gyros and is cutting edge in many of the “fly by wire” controls and smart electronics used. And like the Segway scooter, early adopters are likely to be niche applications – university, government and tourist campuses, traffic free towns as found in middle European states and possibly more environmentally focused city states like Singapore. But we would like to see how the two wheeler copes with the ice and snow of a Chicago winter (not to mention the horrendous potholes!) before hailing this as the transport system of the future. However in the right environment we could see cities semi-pedestrianizing parts of the city centers for walking, cycling and vehicles of this type. Segway has produced and delivered some 60,000 electric scooters since inception in 2002, so they know a thing or two about lithium ion battery supply and management technologies. With GM’s backing, and a new administration keen to develop green initiatives one can forgive a little hype in their promotional material. The vehicle is a fully functioning prototype at the moment and not set to go on sale before 2012 when the cost is predicted to be 25-35% of the price of a small automobile.

http://agmetalminer.com/2009/04/09/segway-and-gm-unveil-two-wheel-electric-car-of-the-future/

Tata Nano test drive: why world's cheapest car should silence the cynics

2009-04-04T00:13:00.001-07:00

You might not expect the world's cheapest car to be a looker, but the sight of a canary-yellow Nano pottering along India's streets turned plenty of heads this afternoon.

The admiring glances – from cheering schoolchildren, sleepy-looking bullock-cart drivers and gawping motorists – probably owed as much to the relentless hype that has surrounded the vehicle’s launch as to its snub-nosed aesthetics

But many people who have seen the car in the flesh do consider it “cute” – even saying that the styling compares favourably with many hot-hatches costing several times as much. If tiny, bumper car-esque motors are your thing, you’ll probably like it a lot.

It’s only when you climb into the cabin, however, that the Nano really comes into its own. The most pleasant surprise is the amount of space inside. The car is more than capable of accommodating four “healthy” six-footers, though at a cost – a serious lack of luggage space. The boot has a volume of 130 litres, enough for a couple of modest overnight bags. Also, it’s only accessible by folding down the rear seats and not from outside. The Nano, it turns out, isn’t a hatchback, and it isn’t built for touring.

With the engine weight being in the rear, the non-power steering is responsive enough (there’s supposed to be a bit of understeer, apparently, to suit inexperienced drivers). The four-speed gearbox does its job with a minimum of fuss. The turning circle – at eight metres – is a joy.

The ride quality isn’t bad either, even on India’s less-than-pristine roads, which is impressive when you consider that the Nano is travelling on a set of rather diminutive 12-inch wheels. At higher speeds there is a fair amount of vibration and the noise levels rise quickly. There’s also a bit of a roll on cornering (probably because the Nano is surprisingly tall) – but what did you expect for £1,400 plus taxes and extras?

The one serious drawback is the lack of pick-up from the 624cc two-cylinder engine. Tata says that the Nano wields enough clout (it puts out 35bhp) to keep pace with Indian traffic, and that was true on the congested streets of Pimpri, the town where the Nano testing centre is located. It has a top speed of 106kph and can reach 100kph in 29.7 seconds.

But I wouldn’t want to have to rely on it to keep me out of trouble on one of India’s highways (such as the one back from Pimpri to my home in Mumbai, which has been named “the death highway” after a string of serious accidents).

The first version of the Nano that The Times drove was the top-end LX model, which comes with front power windows, air-conditioner, central locking and sunvisors. The finishing of the trim on our pre-production model was OK – about right for the price, of about 180,000 rupees [£2,480] (the exact cost depends on where you live in India).

Later, we took the base model (the true Nano, if you like – the one that costs 100,000 rupees ex factory) for a quick spin. It really is a no-frills car. The lack of air conditioning was felt immediately as the temperature climbed into the 90s on the afternoon of our drive.

So was the absence of sunvisors, which came close to feeling like a cost cut too far, given India's climate.

So, would I buy one? Well, no – but I’m not the target market. The Nano is a good city car, but is not enough fun to drive (unless you really, really enjoy pulling very tight U-turns) to snap one up for the motoring experience. And though it is built solidly enough and marvellous for the price, I’ve some reservations about that tiny engine.

It is, however, most definitely a proper car – not the 600cc rollerskate that handles like a cardboard box that so many cynics had forecast and the fuel economy, at about 18 kilometres per litre, is excellent. The lower-specification models cost about three times as much as a good 100cc motorbike, which still makes it a steep trade-up for its target audience – aspiring middle-class families who are currently travelling on two wheels. But it’s hard to imagine them not wanting one.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/new_car_reviews/article6002338.ece

China Set to Corner Electric Car Market

2009-04-04T00:08:00.000-07:00

Getting out of the economic recession is one thing. Staying out is another. A key factor in sustained economic health may well be the ability to lead in new, clean technologies -- and the wherewithal to unshackle economies from the burdens of expensive and volatile fossil fuels in so doing. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that clean energy and efficiency will provide the economic engine to get us out of the recession and the stability to stay out.

With that in mind, here's another installment in my campaign against the "China Scapegoat Syndrome" when it comes to smart energy policy (you've heard the common refrain: "why should the US do anything about emissions if China and India keep burning coal and growing their populations? It's not fair!")

Well, I have little doubt that when China captures the market in clean energy technologies ahead of everybody else, the very same people might be saying the same thing: it's not fair!

So we might take heed when we see that China is positioned to become a leading producer of clean vehicles.
http://daily.sightline.org/daily_score/archive/2009/04/03/china-set-to-corner-electric-car-market

India’s car for the people

2009-03-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

A dinky little car will soon be squeezing its way on to the choked streets of India as Tata Motors finally launches its long-awaited Nano.

Based on advance buzz, car dealers see potential in the Tata Nano even as the industry has cooled in recent months amid the recession. Parth Sanyal / Reuters

Billed as the cheapest car in the world – the introductory price tag is only US$2,000 (Dh7,346) – it is to be officially launched at the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai on Monday afternoon and should arrive in dealerships across the subcontinent by April. Salesmen are anticipating a flurry of activity after fielding thousands of inquiries from potential customers.
Tiny and sporting a stubby nose, teardrop headlights and a high stance, the Nano looks like little else on the road and houses a 34-horsepower, 600cc rear-mounted engine which can, it is claimed, deliver excellent fuel economy of close to 80km per gallon.

Hailed as the new people’s car, it is India’s equivalent to the Volkswagen Beetle and the original Mini. It was dreamt up by Ratan Tata, chairman of Ratan Motors, a 71-year-old business titan from Mumbai who set out to create “a safe, affordable, all-weather form of transport” for the hundreds of thousands of Indian families who travel around on motorcycles – father at the helm, young child standing in front of him, wife and baby seated behind, her sari blowing in the wind.
Tata had expected to make 250,000 cars a year, but delays in opening a Nano plant mean the company will, according to reports, probably sell only between 30,000 and 60,000 in this year.

Already, the Nano has captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide who have joined online fan clubs, coined terms like Nanolution and urged its creator to take the car to Europe and the United States soon.

However, in the current economic climate there will inevitably be a few bumps in the road. And critics are already warning that there will be consequences in offering such a cheap car to a booming country of more than one billion people.Our concern is increasing the total car stock in our cities,” says Anumita Roychowdhury, associate director of the New Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment.

“If you begin to make ultracheap cars, then it means it is likely to expand car ownership in our cities.”

This must be music to the ears of a stalling global car industry. India is a largely untapped car market full of consumers with growing, but still limited, purchasing power. Currently, there are about seven cars for every 1,000 people in India, compared to 600 to 800 cars per 1,000 in developed countries. Tata is banking on the logic that if it offers a car that is marginally more expensive than a scooter, Indians will buy it.

Dilip Chenoy, director general of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, says the Nano can help create a new car consumer market segment that can meet the aspirations of a lot of people who want their own form of mobility but are unable to access it.

“The demand is only going to grow,” says Pankaj Chandra, director of the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore. He believes the Nano’s example will spur other companies to increase efficiency and become more creative.

“From a purely engineering and manufacturing point of view, this is a very innovative car.”

At 1.5 metres wide and 3.1 metres long, the Nano is the same width as the Smart Car, and about 60cm longer. It has four doors and, Tata Motors says, comfortably seats four. The Indian model has basic safety features including a crumple zone, intrusion-resistant doors and seat belts, but there are no airbags. Designers did away with other common car features to achieve the low price: the standard version does not have a radio, power brakes or air conditioning. It is also made with single sheet metal, and maximises interior space by, for example, putting wheels on the edge of the car.

The company touts it as environmentally friendly since its exhaust emissions meet Indian regulatory requirements and the car produces less pollution than motorcycles manufactured in India today. The European model, scheduled to be ready in 2011, will satisfy that continent’s more stringent emissions standards.

The next cheapest car in India is the Maruti 800, which revolutionised the car industry in the 1980s as the country’s first affordable car, and now costs about $5,000. Currently, Maruti Suzuki dominates the passenger vehicle market in India, but the vast majority of people still drive on two wheels, not four.

Mr Chenoy sees the Nano as a catalyst that will spur other manufacturers to develop cars at a similar low cost. “The space is there for someone to do it,” he says.

The Nano also changes the depth of India’s car-making capacity, he argues, as it proves the country can design, engineer and deliver an affordable and efficient car. “I would not like to equate it to the Smart Car or the hybrid car, but the Nano is a green car. It has a very high fuel efficiency.”

Still, critics are alarmed by the potential for a rapid rise in car numbers.

“If you’re just giving a vehicle-to-vehicle comparison, then a small car that Indians drive today is definitely more fuel efficient than the big cars you drive in the US,” says Ms Roychowdhury, who is also the spokeswoman for the Right To Clean Air campaign. But what environmentalists do not want to see in Indian cities are more cars clogging already congested roads and polluting the air.

Residents say the air is much fresher since the ubiquitous auto-rickshaws, taxis and other forms of public transport switched from diesel to compressed natural gas. Some now fear the Nano will replace some three-wheelers.

With five million cars on the road, no one in Delhi would deny the chaotic mess that plagues its streets from sunrise to sundown. The government is trying to address the congestion with a new road policy, and Mr Tata says that if in five years time his company were to produce 500,000 small cars a year, that would only amount to 2.5 per cent of all passenger vehicles in the country.

“This could hardly be considered the nightmare of congestion that is being raised today about our new small car,” he has said.

The Centre for Science and Environment has lobbied the Indian government to invest more in public transport, which, despite its inadequacies, is popular in the country.

“In India because we are still in that take-off stage we have the opportunity to grow differently,” says Ms Roychowdhury.

“Nano or no Nano, still the traffic is very bad,” says Sanjay Thukral, chief of operations at Sanya Motors, a Tata dealership in south Delhi.

But, he adds, “just because the infrastructure is not very good doesn’t mean that the car companies shouldn’t be developing more cars.”

Prospective buyers have already been calling in to his showroom in the upmarket Defence Colony neighbourhood. And it hasn’t only been people who are eager to buy their first car.

“There are people who have one or two cars and still they want a Nano,” says Mr Thukral. He is worried that supply will not be able to meet demand, and points out that the margins on such an affordable car will be very thin. India is not immune to the global recession and Mr Thukral has seen business slow down. He hopes the Nano will turn that around.

In south Delhi’s chic Hauz Kauz market, the narrow streets may already be clogged but the Nano’s imminent arrival is causing a stir.

“I know many people who would want one,” says Poonam Dubey, a 24-year-old business analyst. “It’s not good for Delhi, but if you talk about smaller cities and the middle class, whose per capita income is less, for them it’s good. Cars are a show of some sort of luxury. It’s a dream for them.”

Nineteen-year-old Uday Bhatnagar, leaning up against his Suzuki motorbike, is more dismissive. “I don’t want to drive a bite-size car,” he said.

“I think that it’s all about the target audience,” says Manu Arya, a gentlemen’s tailor. He might not be interested in a Nano for personal use, but it could prove a smart replacement for the scooters his employees use to travel between the three shops he owns.

“My view is that it’s still too early to tell. Let the product actually come into the market and see if it delivers.”
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090321/WEEKENDER/414497098/1306

Redefining Luxury -- as Smart, Enduring Value

2009-03-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

The traditional concept of luxury is being reworked under Land Rover's new owner, Tata Motors Limited, India's biggest manufacturer of trucks and passenger cars.

Tata is deemphasizing the notion of luxury as extravagance for the sake of status in favor of the idea that luxury reflects superior functionality and enduring value.

It is a change in emphasis mandated by the dismal economic conditions in the United States and Western Europe as well as by Tata's long-range plans to increase sales of Land Rover vehicles in emerging markets such as China, South America, Africa and India.

In the mature and troubled U.S. market, people nowadays aren't coming into showrooms in search of motorized baubles, cars and trucks that provide little more than illusions of prestige, said Finbar McFall, vice president of marketing for Land Rover North America.

Consumers still capable of affording something such as this week's test vehicle, the 2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE, want to be assured that they're getting more, McFall said.

Land Rover's current marketing aim, thus, "is to inspire confidence and remind consumers why a Land Rover isn't just a desirable choice but also an intelligent choice -- a safe, smart and sensible choice."

In his corporate statement, McFall noticeably avoided describing the gasoline-powered Land Rover models sold in this country as fuel-efficient choices. It is an understandable omission.

The 2009 Range Rover Sport HSE gets a deplorable 12 miles per gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway -- a combined 15 miles per gallon -- requiring premium unleaded gasoline.

Even at today's prices -- a national average of $2.18 a gallon, according to the Energy Information Administration -- the current U.S. version of the mid-size Range Rover Sport HSE consumes enough fuel to drive a middle- to upper-income owner to the poor house.

If Tata really wants to make a good impression with this model, it should ship over a more fuel-efficient diesel version. Current diesel prices in the United States are roughly equivalent to what is being charged for premium gas, according to the EIA. But diesel power in internal combustion engines is 30 to 35 percent more fuel-efficient than gasoline. Lots of middle- to upper-income buyers would be willing to live with that.

Such a rapprochement is made more likely by how easy, enjoyable and useful it is to live with most of what is the Range Rover Sport HSE.

This is a four-wheel-drive sport-utility vehicle that seems to defy gravity. It weighs a hefty 5,468 pounds, which is no small factor in its egregious fuel consumption. Yet, it is an especially nimble driver -- a utility vehicle, also known as a "truck," that lives up to the "sports" part of its name.

Off-road performance in the Range Rover HSE inspires a kind of fearlessness. (Just check your fuel gauge before you set out.)

I have been asked in my Real Wheels online chat on Fridays to choose a utility vehicle for beach driving. The Range Rover Sport HSE, or the Land Rover LR3 from which it is derived, easily would be among my first choices (assuming, of course, that the beach allows off-road driving).

Both the Range Rover Sport HSE and LR3 have onboard, automatic terrain-setting systems. Turn a dial. Choose a setting for pavement, rocky terrain, sand or gravel. The vehicle makes numerous appropriate adjustments (suspension setting, braking, handling, acceleration control) in response. You are set to go with confidence.

On-road travel is fast, wonderfully stable and comfortable. But again, remember that the more enthusiasm with which you push that accelerator pedal, the more you are contributing to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries through gasoline consumption in the United States.

The Range Rover Sport HSE comes with a 300-horsepower V-8 engine capable of producing 315 foot-pounds of torque. It can move and apparently can continue moving for many years. That partly is where both its practicality and value come in. R.L. Polk vehicle registration data show that 75 percent of all Land Rover vehicles sold in this country since Land Rover's 1989 introduction in the United States remain on the road.

That longevity might be a testament to the fact that most Americans who buy Land Rover vehicles use them to tour the parking lots and garages of strip-mall shopping complexes. Still, that's an impressive number.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/13/AR2009031302485.html

Economic crisis bodes well for electric cars

2009-02-27T17:26:00.000-08:00

ANALYSIS: The next five years is likely to see the rapid development and deployment of new vehicle technology in the context of favourable policies taking shape in the United States, Europe, China and Israel . While the global recession, credit crunch and low oil prices will act to slow investment across the economy, aggressive industry policy to support electrification will help cushion manufacturers of electric and other highly efficient vehicles from the recession's effects.

A major problem with electric and hydrogen powered vehicles is refuelling away from an established network. This has limited the range of electric vehicles and stunted consumer demand. Combining a plug-in electric motor capable of comfortably covering city commuting (up to 100 kilometres) with a back-up combustion engine (also capable of using biofuels) for longer journeys solves this problem. This is why the plug-in hybrid has to date been more successful than 100 per cent EVs.

Environmentalism. Cost-conscious environmentalism is likely to shape demand for new technology vehicles: In developed countries, this will centre on the desire to reduce CO2 emissions and curb reliance on oil imports from ‘unfriendly' countries.

In developing countries, the focus will be the cost savings from increased energy efficiency.

The transport sector has the highest growth rate in CO2 of all end-use activities, accounting for 23 per cent of the world's energy related emissions: Unless a major shift in vehicle technology occurs, emissions are projected to grow by 2 per cent a year, with the highest rates of growth in emerging economies. This means that they will be about 80 per cent higher than current levels by 2030.

Difficult to quantify, but even more pressing, is the desire of many Western governments to boost energy security and stabilize geopolitics by lowering dependence on oil imports.

Turning points. Technological turning points tend to be heralded by bubble economies followed by crisis, which drives the impetus for change. Such a structural shift may emerge after the current economic crisis: shifting consumer preferences and politics are pushing the car industry towards more environmentally benign technologies. Several key countries are positioning themselves to be leaders in the EV market.

United States. U.S. President Barack Obama has set out a national target of deploying one million plug-in hybrids capable of 150 miles per gallon (64 kilometres per litre) by 2015, with a $7,000 tax concession for those who purchase an ‘advanced' vehicle: Production of the Chevrolet Volt, set for release in 2010, formed a centrepiece of the government bailout for car manufacturers.

The $30,000 Volt is a plug-in hybrid and uses nano-particles in an iron-phosphate battery developed in collaboration with A123 Systems.

Californian firm Tesla motors (which builds the cars in the United Kingdom) has developed a high-performance, $109,000, 100 per cent electric sports car using lithium-ion batteries to give it a range of 350 km.

California has a target of putting 7,500 zero emissions vehicles on the road by 2014, though it abandoned a similar target under which 10 per cent of all vehicles were supposed to be emissions-free by 2003.

A Nissan-Renault alliance, using batteries made by NEC, is set to challenge U.S. manufacturers by selling its own emissions-free model from next year.

Japan. Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso has pledged that by 2020, 50 per cent of all cars sold will be non-petrol, and aims to convert Japan Post's fleet of 21,000 vehicles to EVs: Discount rates are to be offered on parking, insurance and loans, with ‘model districts' competing for funding to install recharging infrastructure.

Mitsubishi plans to start selling a 5-door electric hatchback (the MiEV) this year. Subaru intends to release a two-door R1e battery-electric microcar in 2010.

Toyota plans a plug-in hybrid for release next year.

Fuji Heavy Industries is also in the race to provide an EV.

Tokyo Electric Power has announced that it has developed a recharging device that gives a five-minute 40 km charge, and a 10-minute 60 km charge.

Israel. Israel intends to deploy 100,000 electric cars by 2011 supported by 500,000 recharging points. Under the banner of entrepreneur Shai Agassi's ‘Better Place', Nissan-Renault has been brought together in a public-private partnership with the Israeli government and private investors such as Morgan Stanley. With some of the highest petrol prices in the world and 90 per cent of motorists travelling less than 70 km a day between closely positioned urban centres, Israel is ideally placed to lead the world in EV deployment. Solar energy from the Negev Desert will meet the increased demand on the grid.

Portugal. Lisbon has signed a similar plan with the Shai Agassi consortium in order to deploy EVs by 2011. It envisages that EVs will eventually constitute 20 per cent of all public vehicles, and that there will be 320 recharging points by 2010, increasing to 1,300 by 2011. EVs will benefit from range of tax exemptions, including income tax benefit of up to €800.

Denmark. Denmark has also signed an agreement with the Shai Agassi consortium to deploy EVs by 2011, with 20,000 recharging stations powered by wind.

United Kingdom. London has provided £200-million to manufacturers for low-emission cars. Lotus is producing the EV for Tesla Motors and plans to bring out its own EV sports car. It is also in talks to bring European production for the GM Volt to its plant in Hethal, Norfolk. London's fleet of around 1,600 EVs (including small cars such as Norway's THINK and India's REVA) is supported by a range of tax and duty exemptions, though these have been trimmed to control excessive growth of EV traffic in the centre.

France. Paris has provided €400-million specifically in support of low emission vehicles. France is also the manufacturing home of the Renault-Nissan EV, which is set to go on sale around the world. The French government is working to introduce the plug-in hybrid in France by 2011 in partnership with electricity utility EDF.

China. China recently provided 10 billion renminbi ($1.47-billion U.S.) to fund ‘new technology vehicles', including EVs. It is aggressively promoting improved efficiency, reducing sales tax on small cars and providing subsidies to encourage owners to trade in large cars for smaller ones. China is also home to BYD, a car and battery manufacturer using ferrous-ion technology, which has recently placed a plug-in hybrid on sale in China for 150,000 renminbi. It has a range of 100 km and can recharge to 50 per cent in approximately 10 minutes.

CONCLUSION: A significant deployment of plug-in hybrid vehicles and a smaller take up of 100 per cent EVs (centred on large cities) is likely over the next six years. Energy utilities will emerge as important players – in partnership with battery providers and electronics companies – to compete with petrol retailers for the ‘refuelling' market share. EVs will also drive innovation in other areas such as improved combustion engine efficiency, IT and smart metering. Competition will be critical to spur innovation but may be mitigated by the attempts of large firms to consolidate market power.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090223.woxfordanalytica0223/BNStory/energy/home

India's Tata group unveils world's cheapest car

2009-02-10T03:40:00.000-08:00

The four-door five-seater car, due to hit the market later this year at just 100,000 rupees (2,500 US dollars), has a small 33bhp 624cc engine at the rear and is targeted at Indians hoping to trade up to four wheels from a motorcycle.

The Tata 'Nano' -- which looks almost exactly like a Smart -- has no air conditioning, no electric windows and no power steering for the basic model, although two deluxe models ...

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_kmafp/is_200801/ai_n21194730?tag=content;col1

Silencing India

2009-01-24T20:23:00.000-08:00

Can technology solve the nation's noise pollution?

I have been in India for the holidays. We arrived here after the quiet of Bali and, as usual, were assaulted by the crazy driving and incessant honking in Kolkata streets.

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, with a population of 15 million is India's second-largest city after Mumbai. Indeed, noise pollution is rampant throughout major Indian metros and even in India's smaller urban centers.

I grew up in Kolkata on a street called Elgin Road that used to be quiet and elegant. Today, it is being transformed into a shopping district, and the traffic and noise levels have escalated to the point of madness. Traveling by car takes five times what it used to take. You have to start out at breakfast if you commit to a lunch meeting!

One day during my trip, we visited a small school that my family supports in the outskirts of the city. It took us an hour to get there. The chauffeur honked constantly throughout the journey, to the point that I had to say, "If you don't stop honking, I am going to leap out of this car."

Ken Wilson, president of the Christensen Fund, was with us for a day and had an interesting observation about the phenomenon of honking. He asked, in his usual thoughtful, eclectic way, "Have you ever observed how geese fly in a perfect 'v'? They always fly close to one another. And they always honk. That's how they maintain the momentum for the entire flock."

Indeed, on the streets of India, to say that people drive close is an understatement. And yes, they communicate with each other by honking. They have no choice.

Now imagine thousands of cars in a very small radius, all honking at once? Imagine the cacophony it creates!

http://www.forbes.com/technology/2008/12/30/kolkata-noise-pollution-tech-enter-cx_sm_0102kolkata.html

Reva Plans to Launch L-Ion Battery-Powered Car in Europe

2009-01-11T23:51:00.000-08:00

The carmaker plans to launch its L-ion in Europe, with a lithium-ion battery upgrade that improves on its lead-acid predecessor, which sells for about $9,000. Could a lithium-ion upgrade come close to meeting that price point?

India-based electric car maker Reva announced Monday that it plans a 2009 European launch of a lithium-ion battery-powered version of its long-selling electric car, along with a fast-charging station that can charge it in an hour.

Since 2001, Reva has been making a lead-acid battery-powered car with a range of about 50 miles per charge. Reva has sold about 2,200 of those cars for about $9,000 apiece, according to the New York Times.

The new lithium-ion battery-powered car, called the L-ion, will have a range of about 75 miles and a top speed of about 50 miles per hour, Reva said in a Monday press release.

Reva also intends to market a fast-charge station that can charge the new car's lithium-ion batteries in about an hour, compared to about six hours without the charging station. Reva's lead-acid battery-powered car takes about eight hours to charge, the company said.

Reva plans to have the cars and charging stations available for pre-order in February and start delivering them in May. The cars will be available through distributors in Norway, the United Kingdom, France, Cyprus, Greece, Spain, Belgium and Ireland, and Reva will seek to expand its network throughout Europe in the coming year, the company said.

The company will also sell upgrade kits to convert lead-acid battery-powered Reva cars to lithium-ion batteries, the company said. Pricing for the L-ion and charging station – available for lease or purchase – won't be announced until later this month, the company said.

But if the L-ion's price is anywhere close to the $9,000 for its lead-acid battery-powered predecessor, it could find itself in strong competition amongst carmakers seeking to supply urban dwellers with low-cost electric-powered transportation for shorter drives.

Bangalore-based Reva – founded in 1994 as a joint venture between Maini Group of India and AEV LLC of California and funded in 2006 with $20 million from investors led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson and the Global Environment Fund – is one of a number of makers of so-called "commuter cars" that range from cheap to high-priced (see U.K. Mini Car Designer Looks to Asian Market).

Commuter cars – basically energy efficient town cars that may never even see a freeway – are a relatively new category, but automakers say they fit well with driving habits. Most U.S. drivers only go about 40 miles a day. Europeans can drive even less. Reva notes that 97 percent of cars go 50 miles or less a day.

Moreover, consumers have overwhelmingly said they want electric cars, and it's far easier to make an electric commuter car than a full-service electric car given the state of battery technology. The rise of the Smart Car and Mini Cooper also demonstrate that small is big for cars these days. Japan, Finland and other countries provide tax incentives to buy energy efficient cars.

Nonetheless, the price of batteries and other issues continues to trip many up.

India's Tata Motors said in early 2008 that it would bring its gasoline-powered, $2,500 Tata Nano to market by this year, and also planned future electric versions of what is meant to be the world's cheapest car. But setbacks – including the cancellation of construction of a plant to build the car in the face of local opposition – may affect the company's timeline.

AutoblogGreen

In the meantime, Norway's Think in November started (after several delays) selling its City electric car, with a range of 112 miles and top speeds of 62.5 miles per hour, for a base price of 200,000 Norwegian Kroner ($28,690). But with battery leasing costs, the price of owning the car over seven years comes to more than $40,000 (see Think's Electric Car Is Here, But Bring Your Wallet).

Think has since reported that it might have to shut down production if it can't get millions of dollars of loan guarantees from the Norwegian government. So far, it has only come out with a few cars.

Other startups eyeing the higher-end electric car market include Venture Vehicles, which is making the three-wheeled Venture One with a price target of $20,000 to $25,000, and Commuter Cars, which makes the Tango, a snazzy electric two-seater with a hefty $108,000 price tag at present.

Meanwhile, auto-making giants are also eyeing the market for inexpensive, all-electric vehicles. Mitsubishi plans to bring the electric-powered MIEV to market in 2010 for a price of about $24,000. Nissan plans to bring electric cars to market by 2010, starting with smaller cars aimed at city drivers (see Is Nissan Building a Car That Charges Itself?).

Then, of course, there are the high-end, sporty electric vehicles being made by startups like Fisker Automotive and Tesla Motors, though neither company's cars could be classified as inexpensive.

Makers of hybrid gasoline-electric cars are also planning to bring versions that can be plugged in to extend range and reduce fuel use. Toyota plans a plug-in version of its market-leading Prius hybrid by 2010, and General Motors wants its plug-in hybrid Chevy Volt to be on sale by the end of the decade as well.

Of course, all the plans of auto giants and startups alike will be tested by the ongoing economic downturn, which has led to plummeting auto sales worldwide and, in the United States, the federal bailout of GM and Chrysler (see Showing Off Green Cars Amid Economic Gloom).

Learn about the World Passenger Cars Market

2008-12-31T08:11:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK, Dec 09, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report related to the Cars industry is available in its catalogue.

World Passenger Cars Market

http://www.reportlinker.com/p092464/World-Passenger-Cars-Market.html

This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Passenger Cars in Thousands of Units.The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2001 through 2015. A ten-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets with annual market analytics. The report profiles 86 companies including many key and niche players worldwide such as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Chrysler LLC, Daimler AG, Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Fiat S.p.A., Ferrari S.p.A, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corp., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Hyundai Motor Company, Mitsubishi Motors Corp., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault Group, Toyota Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG, and Audi AG. Market data and analytics are derived from primary and secondary research. Company profiles are mostly extracted from URL research and reported select online sources.

PASSENGER CARS MCP-4103 A GLOBAL STRATEGIC BUSINESS REPORT

CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY & PRODUCT DEFINITIONS Study Reliability and Reporting Limitations I-1 Disclaimers I-2 Data Interpretation & Reporting Level I-2 Quantitative Techniques & Analytics I-3 Product Definitions and Scope of Study I-3

II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. Current and Future Analysis II-1 Big Emerging Markets II-2

2. Competitive Analysis II-3 Toyota - The Leading Passenger Car Producer II-3

Table 1: World Top 10 Passenger Car Manufacturers (2006 & 2005): Percentage Breakdown of Production Volumes by Leading Car Manufacturers for Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen Group, Ford, Honda, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Nissan, Hyundai, Renault, Suzuki, and Others (includes corresponding sGraph/Chart) II-3 High-Growth Regions II-4 Transitional Phase II-4 Industry Woes & Solution II-4 Key Success Factors II-5 Evolution of Competitive Advantage Factors II-5

Table 2: Cost of Producing a Passenger Car (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-5 Demand Drivers in Passenger Car Industry II-6

3. Global Majors - A Strategic Insight II-7 General Motors II-7 Competitive Advantage II-7 Passenger Car Brands by Region II-7 Global Sales: Snapshots of Key Achievements in 2006 II-7

Table 3: Global Sales of Cars (2006) - Wholesale Volume Ranked by Operating GM Segment (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-8 Brand Strategy II-8 Audi Group II-9 The Audi Charisma II-9 Leading Markets II-9

Table 4: Top Ten Markets for Audi Cars (2007): Sales Ranked by Leading Region for Germany, China, UK, US, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Austria (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-9 Audi Group - Production of Audi and Lamborghini Brands II-9

Table 5: Production of Audi Vehicles (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Audi Vehicle Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-10

Table 6: Production of Lamborghini Brand of Cars (2007 & 2006): Breakdown by Model - Gallardo and Murcielago (In Units) II-10 BMW Group II-11 BMW Group - Production and Sales II-11

Table 7: BMW Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Production and Sales for BMW, MINI and Rolls- Royce Models (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 Regional Break-Up of BMW Sales II-12

Table 8: Volume Sales of BMW Group (2007): Break Up of Cars Sold by Leading Markets - USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France and Japan (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 BMW Production Base II-13

Table 9: Production of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Models by Volume (2007) - Ranked by Production Plant for Regensburg, Dingolfing, Oxford, Munich, Leipzig, Spartanburg, MagnaSteyr and Other Facilities (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13

Table 10: Sales of BMW Brands (2007): Ranked by Model for 3 Series, 5 Series, 1 Series, X5, X3, 7 Series, Z4 and 6 Series (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13 Daimler AG II-14 Mercedes Car Group II-14 Sales II-14

Table 11: Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Units Sold for Mercedes-Benz and Smart (In '000 Units) II-14

Table 12: Passenger Car Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007): Breakdown of Volume Sales for C-/CLK-/SLK-Class, A-/B-Class, E-/CLS-Class, M-/R-/GL-/G-Class, S-/CL-/SL-Class/SLR/Maybach and smart (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Production Base II-15

Table 13: Leading Production Base for the Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region for Europe, Asia, NAFTA, South America, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Chrysler Group II-16

Table 14: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales for SUVs, Passenger Cars, Light Trucks, Minivans, and Sports Tourers (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-16

Table 15: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales by Region for US, Canada, Mexico, and Outside NAFTA (In Units) II-16 Production Base II-17

Table 16: Leading Production Base of Chrysler Group (2006): Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region - NAFTA, Latin America, Asia, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-17 Ford Motor II-17 Principal Brands II-17 Sales II-18

Table 17: Global Sales of Vehicles (2006 & 2005) - Automotive Business Unit Sales by Ford North America, Ford South America, Ford Europe, Premier Automotive Group, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa/Mazda (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-18 Honda II-18 Principal Brands II-19 Automobile Sales II-19

Table 18: Global Automobile Sales for Honda (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Sales by Region/Country for North America, Japan, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-19 Renault II-19 Global Sales II-20

Table 19: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Renault, Renault Samsung, and Dacia (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20

Table 20: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales by Passenger Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles (In '000 Units) II-20

Table 21: Worldwide Break Up of Renault Group Sales (2007 & 2006) - By Region for Europe, France, Euromed, Americas and Asia-Africa (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20

Table 22: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up of Volume Sales for Renault Group and Nissan Group (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21

Table 23: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007) - Percentage Breakdown of Volume Sales for Renault- Nissan by Region for Western Europe, Japan, Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Rest of the World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21 PSA Peugeot Citroen II-21 Passenger Car Production II-22

Table 24: Global Production and Sales of PSA Peugeot Citroen for 2005 & 2006 (In '000 Units) II-22

Table 25: Global Production of PSA Peugeot Citroen (2005 & 2006): Breakdown by Region for Western Europe, Other European countries, Latin America, Asia- Pacific, Africa & Middle East, and Others (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-22 Hyundai II-23 Sales in Key Markets - A Recent Past Perspective II-23 United States II-23 Europe II-23 India II-23 China II-23 Toyota II-24 Global Sales II-24

Table 26: Vehicle Sales of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up by Region for North America, Japan, Europe, Asia and Other (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-24 Global Production II-25

Table 27: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Production by Leading Region - Japan, North America, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25

Table 28: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume sales by Leading Brand - Toyota/Lexus, Daihatsu, and Hino (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25 Fiat II-25 Automobile Sales II-27

Table 29: Automobile sales for Fiat (2006 & 2005) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Western Europe (France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Western), Brazil, Poland, and Rest of World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Porsche II-27 Global Sales II-27

Table 30: Global Sales for Leading Car Brands for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Volume for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, Carrera GT and RS Spyder (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Global Production II-28

Table 31: Vehicles Production for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Model for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, RS Spyder and Carrera GT (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Suzuki II-28

Table 32: Production Bases of Suzuki automobiles (2004-2006): Production in Japan and Overseas (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Volkswagen II-29

Table 33: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Group (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29

Table 34: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Brand (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29

Table 35: Global Production of Volkswagen Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Volkswagen Passenger Car Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-29

4. Industry Overview II-30 Consumers - Cashing in on Incentives II-30 Effects of Economic Slowdown and Terrorist Attacks II-30 Factors Driving New Passenger Car Demand II-30 Macro-Economic Factors II-30 Size of the Economy II-30 National Economic/Regulatory Policies II-30 Fluctuating Exchange Rates II-31 Automobile Infrastructure II-31 Environmental Concerns II-31 Micro-Economic Factors II-31 Open Trade II-31 Regional Integration II-32 Consumer/Investment Financing II-32 Taxes II-32 Price II-32 Other Miscellaneous Factors II-32 What Ails the Global Passenger Car Industry? II-32 Overcapacity II-33 Low Profit Margins II-33 Fluctuating Oil Prices II-33 What's in a Name? II-33 Automotive Electronics - An Emerging Phenomenon II-33 The Future "Auto" Mobile II-34 Innovations in Automotive Electronics Over the Years II-34 Night Vision II-34 Electronic Power Steering System II-34 OnStar Mobile Concierge Service II-34 Intelligent Cruise Control II-34 Collision-Warning Systems II-34 Smart Airbags II-35 Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) II-35 Drive-by-Wire Systems II-35 Smart Sensors II-35 Telematics II-35 Programmable Logical Devices II-36 In the World of Automotive Electronics II-36 It Pays to Integrate Systems II-36 Shift in Responsibility II-36 Hi-tech Systems Form a Competitive Platform II-36 The Other Side of the Coin II-36 Sports Cars - Making a Come Back II-37 As Many Definitions as the Makers II-37 Demand Determinants II-37 Emotion - Steering New Sports Car Purchases II-37 High Prices - A Justification II-37 Can Exclusivity Hook Next Generation Americans? II-37 Sporty Cars - Redefining the 'Entry-level' Sports Car Segment II-38 Passenger Car Industry - A Background II-38 The Pioneers II-38 Effect of World War II II-38 Globalization Era II-39 Small Cars Make a Dent II-39 Era of Restructuring II-39

5. Industry Dynamics II-41 Consolidation - Towards a Smaller Market II-41 Growth Through Shrinkage II-41 Demand Determinants II-41 Overcapacity - Creating Chaos II-42 Why and How of Excess Capacity II-42 Protectionist Policies - Breeding Excess Capacity II-42 Is There a Way Out? II-42 On the Horns of a Dilemma II-43 Finding the Middle Ground II-43 Technological Frontier II-43 Auto-IT Nexus - Big Money Online II-43 E-Commerce II-44 Environmental Frontier II-44 Automobile Emissions - An Overview II-44 Petrol Vs. Diesel - Choosing between the Lesser of Two Evils II-44 Methods to Cut Down Auto Emissions II-44 Use of Catalytic Converters and Oxidation Catalysts II-44 Hiking the Air to Fuel Ratio II-45 Direct Injection Technology II-45 Alternative Fuels - A Healthy Alternative Towards Reducing Auto Emissions II-45 Biodiesel II-45 Electric Fuel II-45 Ethanol II-46 Hydrogen II-46 Methanol II-46 Natural Gas II-46 Propane II-47 P-Series II-47 Solar Fuel II-47 Emission Standards in the European Union II-47 Euro III Norms [With Effect from the Year 2000] II-47

Table 36: Emission Standard II-48 Euro IV Norms [With Effect from the Year 2005] II-48

Table 37: Emission Standard II-48 Emission Standards in the United States II-48 Tier-1 Standards II-49

Table 38: EPA Tier 1 Emission Standards for Passenger Car (In grams/mile) II-49 The National Low Emission Vehicle (NLEV) Program II-49 Californian Standards II-50

Table 39: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-50

Table 40: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 100,000 miles/10 Years (In grams/mile) II-50 Low Emission Vehicle II (LEV II) Standards II-51

Table 41: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-51

Table 42: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 120,000 miles/11 Years (In grams/mile) II-51

6. Market Issues/Trends II-52 Bluetooth - The Emerging Phenomenon II-52 Technology Stokes Human/Machine Interface II-52 Cars are Built to Last II-52 End of Block Exemption -EU's Quest for Creating a 'Single Auto Market' II-53

7. Product Overview II-54 Passenger Cars - A Definition II-54 Classification based on Body Style II-54 Sedans II-54 Coupes II-54 Hatchbacks II-54 Convertibles II-54 Station Wagons II-55 Classification based on Size/Price/Utility II-55 Classification by Engine Displacement and Fuel Systems II-55

Table 43: Passenger Car Categories - By Engine Displacement II-55 Classification Based on Type of Fuel II-55 Classification - By Region/Country II-56

8. Recent Industry Activity II-58 Ford Agrees to Sell Jaguar Land Rover to Tata Motors II-58 GM Invests in DMAX Diesel Engine Plant II-58 Nissan and Mitsubishi to Expand Mini-Cars OEM Supply II-58 Toyota Plans a Second Plant in India II-58 Audi Opens Largest Car Dealership in India II-58 Tata Motors Ventures into Used Cars Business II-59 Nissan Signs an Agreement with MUL II-59 Cerberus Acquires Chrysler II-59 Ford Motors Divests Stake in Aston Martin II-59 M&M, Renault and Nissan's Three Way Joint Venture II-59 Mitsubishi Markets Mono-box Minivan under 'Delica D:5' Brand II-60 Ford Cuts Down Workforce and Capacity II-60 Dongfeng Honda Expands Auto Plant Capacity II-60 Tata Motors Plans for Capacity Expansion II-60 Fiat and Tata Form Joint Venture for Passenger Cars II-60 FAW Group Teams Up with TMC II-61 Guangzhou Honda's Zengcheng Plant Commences Production II-61 Tata Motors Outlines $2.6 Billion Expansion Strategy II-61 Suzuki to Construct Assembly Unit in Japan II-61 Dongfeng Motor Constructs Technical Center in Guangzhou II-61 Fuji Heavy to Sell Subaru-Brand Passenger Vehicles in Mexico II-61 FAW Group Establishes 4th Passenger Car Plant in Chengdu II-62 Kia Begins Serial Car Manufacture in Slovak Facility II-62 ZF Develops 6 HP 28 Transmission for Passenger Cars II-62 Isuzu and Toyota Join Forces for Advanced Diesel Engine II-62 JRD Joint Venture Company Builds Automobile Factory in Vietnam II-62 Nissan and Suzuki Expand Business Alliance II-62 Mitsubishi Companies Collaborate to Develop 2-liter Engines II-63 Audi Hungaria Begins Manufacture of Audi TT Coupe II-63 Severstal Auto and Fiat Auto Enter into Industrial Agreement II-63 Valeo Acquires Ford's Sheldon Road Plant and Automotive Components Holdings II-63 Proton and MMC Sign MOU on Cooperation Agreement II-63 Mitsubishi and Nissan Sign Supply Agreement II-63 PSA Peugeot Starts Manufacture of Peugeot 307 Sedan II-64 Mahindra and Renault Sign an MOU for Greenfield Plant II-64 Volkswagen to Build New Plant in India II-64 Shanghai Auto to Manufacture Own-brand Cars II-64 Nanjing Automobile Takes Over MG Rover II-64 Nissan to Market RSM's SM3 Passenger Car II-64 M&M and Renault Join Forces for the 'C' Segment Passenger Car II-65 Iran and Venezuela Team up to Manufacture Passenger Cars II-65 SAIPA to Manufacture Various Pride Models II-65 Sanyang Discontinues Local Assembly of Hyundai Passenger Vehicles II-65 Skoda Enters into Taiwanese Market II-65 Nissan and Dongfeng to Boost Passenger Vehicle Output II-65 Honda to Boost Pakistani Unit's Production Capacity II-65 Toyota to Manufacture Prius Hybrid Cars II-66 Nissan to Manufacture Small Passenger Cars in Thailand II-66 Toyota Group Plans to Produce Compact Cars for Indian Market II-66 Mazda to Install Advanced Idling Stop Systems in Passenger Vehicles II-66 Corning to Provide DuraTrap(R) AT Filters for Volkswagen's Passenger Cars II-66 Honda to Hike Auto Manufacturing Capacity in Brazil II-66 Shanghai Automotive Teams up with Two Thai Companies II-67 Nissan to Raise Output of Passenger Cars II-67 Dongfeng Yueda and Kia Motors Start Second Chinese Plant Construction II-67 Suzuki Starts Manufacture of New 1.4L Engine II-67 DaimlerChrysler Enters into Joint Venture Agreement with Unior II-67 Volkswagen Enters into Agreement with Daewoo II-67 Shanghai VW Inks Agreement with Skoda II-68 TPCA Inaugurates Car Production Plant in Czech Republic II-68 Hyundai Builds Second Assembly Plant in Chennai II-68 Toyota to Construct First Automobile Plant in Russia II-68 Nissan India Commences Operations II-68 SAIC Decides to Manufacture its Own Cars in China II-68 Cadillac to Manufacture Stretched STS Sedan in China II-68 Volkswagen Decides to Develop Touareg Variants Including a Coupe II-68 Honda Automobile (China) Co., Ltd. Begins Jazz Car Exports to Europe II-69 Tata Motors Enters into Alliance with HPCL II-69 DC Inks JV Agreement with BAIC II-69 Honda Commences Production of Fit Small Passenger Cars II-69 PSA Peugeot Citroen Commences Production of Peugeot 206 SW in Brazil II-69 Daimler-Chrysler Assembles Passenger Cars in China II-69

9. Product Introductions/Innovations II-70 Tata Motors Unveils the 'Tata Nano' II-70 Toyota Brand to Debut in Korea II-70 Honda Launches New Civic 1.8 V Model in India II-70 GM Unveils Optra Diesel II-70 Mitsubishi Launches Galant Fortis II-70 Mitsubishi Introduces Pajero TR4 Flex II-71 Mitsubishi Unveils the Delica D: 5 Minivan II-71 Toyota Unveils New 'Mark X ZiO' II-71 Lexus Introduces Hybrid Sedans II-71 Mahindra Renault Unleashes Logan in India II-71 Maruti Suzuki Rolls Out SX4 II-72 GM Launches Spark II-72 Fiat Unveils Palio Stile II-72 BMW released the '3-series' sedan II-72 Ford India Rolls Out the New Fiesta- ZXI II-72 Hyundai Motor India Unveils the New Getz Prime II-72 M&M Renault Joint Venture Launches Logan Sedan II-73 Maruti Udyog Limited Releases Swift Diesel II-73 Rolls Royce Unveils the New Phantom Drophead Coupe II-73 DC Releases Mercedes Benz S-Class and CL-Class in India II-73 Toyota to bring Prius to India II-73 M&M-Renault-Nissan JV Rolled Out Sedan Teana II-73 Nissan Altima Hits the Road in the US II-73 Toyota to Enter the Indian Small Car Market II-73 Tata Motors Unveils its Concept Car Elegante II-74 General Motors India Unveils Chevrolet U-VA II-74 GM Launches Chevrolet Spark from its New Plant II-74 Honda Launches Third Generation CRV Models in India II-74 Hindustan Motors Releases the Mitsubishi Lancer CNG Version II-74 Hyundai Verna Hits the Indian Roads II-74 MUL Unveils the New Zen Estilo II-74 American Suzuki Displays Full Range of 'Dune' Concept SUVs and Cars II-75 Mitsubishi Motors Unveils eK Sport and eK Wagon Models II-75 BMW Launches The BMW Hydrogen 7 II-75 Low Emission Compact Car Launched in UK II-75 Honda Launches 2007 Subcompact Fit II-76 Honda Reveals Step Bus Concept Vehicle at 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show II-76 MUL Unveils Stylixh Zen Estilo II-76 Nissan Introduces Basic and New Variants of X-trail II-76 Tata Motors Launches Estate and Sedan Versions of Indigo Range II-76 DaimlerChrysler India Unveils New E-Class Car in Kolkata II-77 Tata Motors Consolidates Presence in African Region II-77 Honda to Unveil New Honda Accord at Motor Show II-77 Lucas TVS Introduces Fuel-Saving Systems for Cars II-77 Nissan Launches All-New Skyline II-77 Nissan Unleashes All-New Infiniti G35 Sedan at SETEC II-78 Nissan Introduces New Presage 250 Highway Star II-78 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG to Showcase New Prosche Models II-78 Peugeot Debuts Dongfeng Peugeot 206 II-78 Renault Rolls Out New Kangoo Models II-78 Renault Launches Renewed Twingo Range II-79 Tata Motors Introduces New Indica V2 Xeta Series II-79 TMC Introduces Auris Compact II-79 Lexus Unveils GS450h II-80 Kia Launches New C-Segment Family Car II-80 Kia to Introduce Three New Vehicles at Geneva Motor Show II-80 Mazda Reveals Special Edition 'Axela Sport' and 'Demio' Models II-80 Mazda Equips Roadster Range with Power Retractable Hard Top II-81 FAW Debuts Besturn C301 into Luxury Segment II-81 FAW-Volkswagen Introduces Redesigned Bora Sedan II-81 Mercedes Launches 2007 S-Class Sedans II-81 DaimlerChrysler Launches 'Bionic' Diesel-Powered Car II-81 Tata Motors Displays Extensive Range of Vehicles at Moscow Motor Show II-82 Tata Motors Debuts Three Models at the Seoul Motor Show 2005 II-82 Toyota Launches Toyota Yaris in Brunei II-82 Nissan Unveils Wingroad Wagon II-82 Renault Rolls Out Clio Campus Pack Sport and Modus Alyum II-82 Renault Introduces Logan for Colombian Customers II-83 Tata Motors Launches the Indigo SX Range II-83 Maserati to Launch New Alfa-Romeo-Based Model II-83 Ford Introduces New Cars II-83 BMW Introduces Premium Compact II-83 Mercedes Unveils New S-Class Flagship II-83 Quattro GmbH Unviels a New Line - 'Audi Exclusive Line' II-83 Citroen Unveils New Executive Saloon Citroen C6 II-84 Audi Rolls Out A8 4.2 TDI quattro II-84 Audi Rolls Out Reengineered A3 Three-Door Model II-84 Porsche AG Rolls Out Cayman S Sports Car II-84 Ford Launches Eco Friendly Cars in Sweden II-84 Ford Introduces Modern Focus and Mustang GT Models in Taiwan II-84 Hyundai Unveils New Models and Fuel Cell Technologies II-85 Renault Forays into Morocco Market with Logan II-85 GM Daewoo Releases Chevrolet Aveo Worldwide II-85 Nissan Unveils New Micra Models II-85 Infiniti of Nissan Launches More Luxury Vehicles in Taiwan Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-85 Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-86 Maruti Unveils Swift Passenger Car in India II-86 Ford Introduces New Variant of Mondeo II-86 Hindustan Motors Unveils Lancer LX in Mumbai II-86 AvtoVAZ Introduces Lada-Kalina, New Passenger Cars II-86 Tata Africa and Tata Motors Launch a Wide Variety of Passenger Cars II-86 BMW Launches the New M5 II-86 Nissan Introduces Multimedia Car at ITS World Congress Held in 2004 II-86 Citroen Rolls Out Hi-Tech C5 Model II-87 Renault Forays into Malaysian Market with Kangoo II-87 Toyota and PSA Peugeot Roll Out Three New Compact Cars in Europe II-87 Hyundai Introduces Hatch Back Getz to Indian Passenger Car Market II-87 Skoda Unveils Superb II-87

10. Focus on Select Players II-88 Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (Germany) II-88 Chrysler LLC (US) II-88 Daimler AG (Germany) II-88 Porsche Automobil Holding SE (Germany) II-88 Fiat S.p.A. (Italy) II-89 Ferrari S.p.A (Italy) II-89 Ford Motor Company (USA) II-90 General Motors Corp. (USA) II-90 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-90 Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea) II-91 Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (Japan) II-91 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-91 PSA Peugeot Citroen (France) II-91 Renault Group (France) II-92 Toyota Motor Corp. (Japan) II-92 Volkswagen AG (Germany) II-92 Audi AG (Germany) II-93

11. Global Market Perspective II-94 Sales II-94

Table 44: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-94

Table 45: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-95

Table 46: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-96

Table 47: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Sales for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-97 Production II-98

Table 48: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-98

Table 49: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-99

Table 50: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-100

Table 51: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Production for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-101

III. MARKET

1. The United States III-1 A.Market Analysis III-1 Current and Future Analysis III-1 Employee Pricing III-1 Will these Pricing Strategies Continue? III-1 Domestic Auto Industry's Blitzkrieg to Reclaim Credibility III-2 Diesel Powered Cars to Make Comeback III-2 Competitive Analysis III-2 Leading Passenger Car Models III-2

Table 52: Leading Passenger Car Models in the US (2006): Annual Estimates of Volume Sales for Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Malibu, Honda Civic, Nissan Altima, Chevy Impala, Chevy Cobalt, Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-2 Industry Overview III-3 Performance Tied to General and Market-Specific Factors III-3 Factors Fueling Competition III-3 Foreign Brands Make Substantial Inroad III-3 Price Factor - A Major Competitive Platform III-3 Big 3 - Not Beyond Competition III-3 Competition in the Overseas Market III-4 Exports Exhibit "Moderate" Potential III-4 Trends and Issues III-4 Growing Popularity of Trucks and SUVs III-4 Financing - A Successful Sales Tool III-4 E-Model: Gaining Fast Market Acceptance III-4 The Green Movement III-5 Mercury - A Potent Pollutant III-5 Regulations III-6 Belt Use and Child Restraint Laws III-6 Revamped FMVSS No 202 - Head Restraint Requirements for Passenger Cars III-6 Unveiling of Anton's Law for Rear Seat Occupants in Passenger Vehicles III-6 NHTSA of the US Makes LATCH System Mandatory for Child Safety Seats III-6 NHTSA Makes Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Mandatory for Passenger Cars III-6 Market Trends & Issues in the Recent Past III-7 Bag of Mixed Feelings III-7 Foreign Brands- on the Upswing III-7

Table 53: Incentives on Light Vehicles by Automakers in the US (June 2003): Ranked by Country-of-Origin (In US$) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-7 Imspact of Economic Slowdown and Terrorist Attacks III-8 Industry Consolidation III-8 Consumers in Conservative Mood III-8 Blue Shades out All other Colors III-8 Product Launches III-8 Strategic Corporate Developments III-10 Select US Players III-11 B.Market Analytics III-12

Table 54: US Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-12

Table 55: US Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-13

Table 56: US Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-13

Table 57: US Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-14

Table 58: US Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-14

Table 59: US Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-15

2. Canada III-16 A.Market Analysis III-16 Current & Future Analysis III-16 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-16 Top Ten Passenger Vehicle Models III-16

Table 60: Top Passenger Vehicle Models in Canada in the Recent Past (2004): Annual Volume Sales for Honda Civic Sedan/Coupe, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege, Pontiac (GM) Sunfire, Toyota Echo, Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Focus, Honda Accord, Chevrolet (GM) Impala, and Toyota Camry (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-16

Table 61: Passenger Car Sales of Leading Players in Canada in the Recent Past (2000-2004): Annual Volume Sales for Canada Toyota, Canada Honda, Canada Mazda, Canada Nissan, Canada Subaru, and Canada Suzuki (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-17 Classification of Passenger Cars III-17

Table 62: Passenger Cars Market in Canada (2003-2005): Percentage Breakdown of Volume Sales by Type of Passenger Car - Compact, Subcompact, Intermediate, Luxury, and Sport (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-17 Trends and Issues Over the Years III-18 The "Compact" Revolution III-18 Growing Popularity of Alternative Fuel Systems III-18 Light Trucks and Minivans Last Longer Than Passenger Cars III-18 Vehicle Affordability III-18 Misplaced Tax Breaks III-18 Industry Overview III-18 Change - The Only Constant Variable III-18 Preferred Alternative Fuel System Supplier III-19 B.Market Analytics III-19

Table 63: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-19

Table 64: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars -Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-19

Table 65: Canadian Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-20

Table 66: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-20

Table 67: Canadian Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-21

Table 68: Canadian Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-21

3. Japan III-22 A.Market Analysis III-22 Current and Future Analysis III-22 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-22

Table 69: Leading Manufacturers of Passenger Cars in Japan (2005 & 2004): Production for Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki-Maruti, Mazda, and Mitsubishi (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-22 Industry Overview III-22 Japan - A Major Automobile Market in the World III-22 Change in Vehicle Registration Criteria III-23 Customer Profile III-23 Industry Consolidation III-23 Exports Scenario in the Recent Past III-23

Table 70: Exports of Passenger Cars from Japan (2001-2003) In Units (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-24 Product Launches III-24 Strategic Corporate Developments III-27 Select Japanese Players III-29 B.Market Analytics III-30

Table 71: Japanese Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-30

Table 72: Japanese Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-31

Table 73: Japanese Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-31

Table 74: Japanese Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-32

Table 75: Japanese Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-32

Table 76: Japanese Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-33

4. Europe III-34 A.Market Analysis III-34 Current & Future Analysis III-34 Market Overview III-34 Classification of Passenger Cars in the EU III-34 Categorization by Segment III-34 Categorization by Bodies III-35 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-35 Leading Passenger Car Brands in Europe III-35

Table 77: Passenger Car Companies in Europe (2006 & 2005): Breakdown of New Registrations (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-35 Leading Passenger Car Models in Europe - 2004 III-36

Table 78: Leading Passenger Car Models in Europe (2004): Annual Volume Sales for Renault Megane, Ford Focus, VW Golf, Peugeot 206, Peugeot 307, Renault Clio, Opel Astra, Opel Corsa, Ford Fiesta, and Fiat Punto (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-36 New Registrations by Country Make in Western Europe III-36

Table 79: Leading Makes in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations by Make - European, American, Japanese, and Korean (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-36 Leading Passenger Car Brands in Western Europe III-37

Table 80: Leading Passenger Car Brands in Western Europe (2003-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Opel, Ford, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Toyota, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, SEAT, Nissan, Hyundai, and Skoda (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-37 Leading Diesel Passenger Car Models in Western Europe III-38

Table 81: Leading Diesel Passenger Car Models in Western Europe (2003): Annual Volume Sales for Peugeot 307, VW Golf, Peugeot 206, Renault Megane, VW Passat, Ford Focus, Renault Clio, Audi A4, BMW Series 3, and Mercedes E-Class (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-38

Table 82: Diesel Car Population in Select European Countries (2004) in Units per 1000 Inhabitants (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-38 American Players III-39

Table 83: Leading American Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Opel, Ford, Volvo, SAAB, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Chevrolet III-39

Table 84: Leading American Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Opel, Ford, Volvo, SAAB, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Chevrolet (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-39 Japanese Players III-40

Table 85: Leading Japanese Players in West European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi III-40

Table 86: Leading Japanese Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-40 Korean Players III-40

Table 87: Leading Korean Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2004): Ranked by Unit Sales for Hyundai, KIA, Daewoo, and Others III-41

Table 88: Leading Korean Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2004 Vs 2003): Annual Sales for Hyundai, KIA, and Daewoo (GM) In Units III-41 European Groups III-42

Table 89: Leading European Groups in West European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Volkswagen, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Fiat, Daimler Chrysler, BMW, and Rover III-42

Table 90: Leading European Groups in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001- 2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Volkswagen, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Fiat, Daimler Chrysler, BMW, and Rover (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-42 Top European Brands III-43

Table 91: Leading European Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes, Audi, BMW, SEAT, and Skoda III-43

Table 92: Leading European Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, SEAT, and Skoda (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-43 Trends III-44 End of Block Exemption - A New Paradigm III-44 Regulations Introduced- An Overview III-44 Common Platforms - A Popular Cost Reduction Strategy III-44 B.Market Analytics III-45

Table 93: European Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region / Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-45

Table 94: European Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-46

Table 95: European Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-46

Table 96: European 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Sales for France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-47

Table 97: European Recent Past, Current & Future

To order this report: World Passenger Cars Market

http://www.reportlinker.com/p092464/World-Passenger-Cars-Market.html

Learn about the World Passenger Cars Market

2008-12-21T02:05:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK, Dec 09, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report related to the Cars industry is available in its catalogue.
World Passenger Cars Market
http://www.reportlinker.com/p092464/World-Passenger-Cars-Market.html
This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Passenger Cars in Thousands of Units.The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2001 through 2015. A ten-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets with annual market analytics. The report profiles 86 companies including many key and niche players worldwide such as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Chrysler LLC, Daimler AG, Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Fiat S.p.A., Ferrari S.p.A, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corp., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Hyundai Motor Company, Mitsubishi Motors Corp., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault Group, Toyota Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG, and Audi AG. Market data and analytics are derived from primary and secondary research. Company profiles are mostly extracted from URL research and reported select online sources.
PASSENGER CARS MCP-4103 A GLOBAL STRATEGIC BUSINESS REPORT
CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY & PRODUCT DEFINITIONS Study Reliability and Reporting Limitations I-1 Disclaimers I-2 Data Interpretation & Reporting Level I-2 Quantitative Techniques & Analytics I-3 Product Definitions and Scope of Study I-3
II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. Current and Future Analysis II-1 Big Emerging Markets II-2
2. Competitive Analysis II-3 Toyota - The Leading Passenger Car Producer II-3
Table 1: World Top 10 Passenger Car Manufacturers (2006 & 2005): Percentage Breakdown of Production Volumes by Leading Car Manufacturers for Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen Group, Ford, Honda, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Nissan, Hyundai, Renault, Suzuki, and Others (includes corresponding sGraph/Chart) II-3 High-Growth Regions II-4 Transitional Phase II-4 Industry Woes & Solution II-4 Key Success Factors II-5 Evolution of Competitive Advantage Factors II-5
Table 2: Cost of Producing a Passenger Car (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-5 Demand Drivers in Passenger Car Industry II-6
3. Global Majors - A Strategic Insight II-7 General Motors II-7 Competitive Advantage II-7 Passenger Car Brands by Region II-7 Global Sales: Snapshots of Key Achievements in 2006 II-7
Table 3: Global Sales of Cars (2006) - Wholesale Volume Ranked by Operating GM Segment (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-8 Brand Strategy II-8 Audi Group II-9 The Audi Charisma II-9 Leading Markets II-9
Table 4: Top Ten Markets for Audi Cars (2007): Sales Ranked by Leading Region for Germany, China, UK, US, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Austria (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-9 Audi Group - Production of Audi and Lamborghini Brands II-9
Table 5: Production of Audi Vehicles (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Audi Vehicle Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-10
Table 6: Production of Lamborghini Brand of Cars (2007 & 2006): Breakdown by Model - Gallardo and Murcielago (In Units) II-10 BMW Group II-11 BMW Group - Production and Sales II-11
Table 7: BMW Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Production and Sales for BMW, MINI and Rolls- Royce Models (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 Regional Break-Up of BMW Sales II-12
Table 8: Volume Sales of BMW Group (2007): Break Up of Cars Sold by Leading Markets - USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France and Japan (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 BMW Production Base II-13
Table 9: Production of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Models by Volume (2007) - Ranked by Production Plant for Regensburg, Dingolfing, Oxford, Munich, Leipzig, Spartanburg, MagnaSteyr and Other Facilities (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13
Table 10: Sales of BMW Brands (2007): Ranked by Model for 3 Series, 5 Series, 1 Series, X5, X3, 7 Series, Z4 and 6 Series (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13 Daimler AG II-14 Mercedes Car Group II-14 Sales II-14
Table 11: Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Units Sold for Mercedes-Benz and Smart (In '000 Units) II-14
Table 12: Passenger Car Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007): Breakdown of Volume Sales for C-/CLK-/SLK-Class, A-/B-Class, E-/CLS-Class, M-/R-/GL-/G-Class, S-/CL-/SL-Class/SLR/Maybach and smart (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Production Base II-15
Table 13: Leading Production Base for the Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region for Europe, Asia, NAFTA, South America, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Chrysler Group II-16
Table 14: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales for SUVs, Passenger Cars, Light Trucks, Minivans, and Sports Tourers (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-16
Table 15: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales by Region for US, Canada, Mexico, and Outside NAFTA (In Units) II-16 Production Base II-17
Table 16: Leading Production Base of Chrysler Group (2006): Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region - NAFTA, Latin America, Asia, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-17 Ford Motor II-17 Principal Brands II-17 Sales II-18
Table 17: Global Sales of Vehicles (2006 & 2005) - Automotive Business Unit Sales by Ford North America, Ford South America, Ford Europe, Premier Automotive Group, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa/Mazda (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-18 Honda II-18 Principal Brands II-19 Automobile Sales II-19
Table 18: Global Automobile Sales for Honda (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Sales by Region/Country for North America, Japan, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-19 Renault II-19 Global Sales II-20
Table 19: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Renault, Renault Samsung, and Dacia (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20
Table 20: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales by Passenger Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles (In '000 Units) II-20
Table 21: Worldwide Break Up of Renault Group Sales (2007 & 2006) - By Region for Europe, France, Euromed, Americas and Asia-Africa (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20
Table 22: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up of Volume Sales for Renault Group and Nissan Group (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21
Table 23: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007) - Percentage Breakdown of Volume Sales for Renault- Nissan by Region for Western Europe, Japan, Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Rest of the World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21 PSA Peugeot Citroen II-21 Passenger Car Production II-22
Table 24: Global Production and Sales of PSA Peugeot Citroen for 2005 & 2006 (In '000 Units) II-22
Table 25: Global Production of PSA Peugeot Citroen (2005 & 2006): Breakdown by Region for Western Europe, Other European countries, Latin America, Asia- Pacific, Africa & Middle East, and Others (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-22 Hyundai II-23 Sales in Key Markets - A Recent Past Perspective II-23 United States II-23 Europe II-23 India II-23 China II-23 Toyota II-24 Global Sales II-24
Table 26: Vehicle Sales of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up by Region for North America, Japan, Europe, Asia and Other (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-24 Global Production II-25
Table 27: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Production by Leading Region - Japan, North America, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25
Table 28: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume sales by Leading Brand - Toyota/Lexus, Daihatsu, and Hino (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25 Fiat II-25 Automobile Sales II-27
Table 29: Automobile sales for Fiat (2006 & 2005) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Western Europe (France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Western), Brazil, Poland, and Rest of World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Porsche II-27 Global Sales II-27
Table 30: Global Sales for Leading Car Brands for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Volume for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, Carrera GT and RS Spyder (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Global Production II-28
Table 31: Vehicles Production for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Model for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, RS Spyder and Carrera GT (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Suzuki II-28
Table 32: Production Bases of Suzuki automobiles (2004-2006): Production in Japan and Overseas (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Volkswagen II-29
Table 33: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Group (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29
Table 34: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Brand (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29
Table 35: Global Production of Volkswagen Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Volkswagen Passenger Car Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-29
4. Industry Overview II-30 Consumers - Cashing in on Incentives II-30 Effects of Economic Slowdown and Terrorist Attacks II-30 Factors Driving New Passenger Car Demand II-30 Macro-Economic Factors II-30 Size of the Economy II-30 National Economic/Regulatory Policies II-30 Fluctuating Exchange Rates II-31 Automobile Infrastructure II-31 Environmental Concerns II-31 Micro-Economic Factors II-31 Open Trade II-31 Regional Integration II-32 Consumer/Investment Financing II-32 Taxes II-32 Price II-32 Other Miscellaneous Factors II-32 What Ails the Global Passenger Car Industry? II-32 Overcapacity II-33 Low Profit Margins II-33 Fluctuating Oil Prices II-33 What's in a Name? II-33 Automotive Electronics - An Emerging Phenomenon II-33 The Future "Auto" Mobile II-34 Innovations in Automotive Electronics Over the Years II-34 Night Vision II-34 Electronic Power Steering System II-34 OnStar Mobile Concierge Service II-34 Intelligent Cruise Control II-34 Collision-Warning Systems II-34 Smart Airbags II-35 Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) II-35 Drive-by-Wire Systems II-35 Smart Sensors II-35 Telematics II-35 Programmable Logical Devices II-36 In the World of Automotive Electronics II-36 It Pays to Integrate Systems II-36 Shift in Responsibility II-36 Hi-tech Systems Form a Competitive Platform II-36 The Other Side of the Coin II-36 Sports Cars - Making a Come Back II-37 As Many Definitions as the Makers II-37 Demand Determinants II-37 Emotion - Steering New Sports Car Purchases II-37 High Prices - A Justification II-37 Can Exclusivity Hook Next Generation Americans? II-37 Sporty Cars - Redefining the 'Entry-level' Sports Car Segment II-38 Passenger Car Industry - A Background II-38 The Pioneers II-38 Effect of World War II II-38 Globalization Era II-39 Small Cars Make a Dent II-39 Era of Restructuring II-39
5. Industry Dynamics II-41 Consolidation - Towards a Smaller Market II-41 Growth Through Shrinkage II-41 Demand Determinants II-41 Overcapacity - Creating Chaos II-42 Why and How of Excess Capacity II-42 Protectionist Policies - Breeding Excess Capacity II-42 Is There a Way Out? II-42 On the Horns of a Dilemma II-43 Finding the Middle Ground II-43 Technological Frontier II-43 Auto-IT Nexus - Big Money Online II-43 E-Commerce II-44 Environmental Frontier II-44 Automobile Emissions - An Overview II-44 Petrol Vs. Diesel - Choosing between the Lesser of Two Evils II-44 Methods to Cut Down Auto Emissions II-44 Use of Catalytic Converters and Oxidation Catalysts II-44 Hiking the Air to Fuel Ratio II-45 Direct Injection Technology II-45 Alternative Fuels - A Healthy Alternative Towards Reducing Auto Emissions II-45 Biodiesel II-45 Electric Fuel II-45 Ethanol II-46 Hydrogen II-46 Methanol II-46 Natural Gas II-46 Propane II-47 P-Series II-47 Solar Fuel II-47 Emission Standards in the European Union II-47 Euro III Norms [With Effect from the Year 2000] II-47
Table 36: Emission Standard II-48 Euro IV Norms [With Effect from the Year 2005] II-48
Table 37: Emission Standard II-48 Emission Standards in the United States II-48 Tier-1 Standards II-49
Table 38: EPA Tier 1 Emission Standards for Passenger Car (In grams/mile) II-49 The National Low Emission Vehicle (NLEV) Program II-49 Californian Standards II-50
Table 39: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-50
Table 40: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 100,000 miles/10 Years (In grams/mile) II-50 Low Emission Vehicle II (LEV II) Standards II-51
Table 41: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-51
Table 42: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 120,000 miles/11 Years (In grams/mile) II-51
6. Market Issues/Trends II-52 Bluetooth - The Emerging Phenomenon II-52 Technology Stokes Human/Machine Interface II-52 Cars are Built to Last II-52 End of Block Exemption -EU's Quest for Creating a 'Single Auto Market' II-53
7. Product Overview II-54 Passenger Cars - A Definition II-54 Classification based on Body Style II-54 Sedans II-54 Coupes II-54 Hatchbacks II-54 Convertibles II-54 Station Wagons II-55 Classification based on Size/Price/Utility II-55 Classification by Engine Displacement and Fuel Systems II-55
Table 43: Passenger Car Categories - By Engine Displacement II-55 Classification Based on Type of Fuel II-55 Classification - By Region/Country II-56
8. Recent Industry Activity II-58 Ford Agrees to Sell Jaguar Land Rover to Tata Motors II-58 GM Invests in DMAX Diesel Engine Plant II-58 Nissan and Mitsubishi to Expand Mini-Cars OEM Supply II-58 Toyota Plans a Second Plant in India II-58 Audi Opens Largest Car Dealership in India II-58 Tata Motors Ventures into Used Cars Business II-59 Nissan Signs an Agreement with MUL II-59 Cerberus Acquires Chrysler II-59 Ford Motors Divests Stake in Aston Martin II-59 M&M, Renault and Nissan's Three Way Joint Venture II-59 Mitsubishi Markets Mono-box Minivan under 'Delica D:5' Brand II-60 Ford Cuts Down Workforce and Capacity II-60 Dongfeng Honda Expands Auto Plant Capacity II-60 Tata Motors Plans for Capacity Expansion II-60 Fiat and Tata Form Joint Venture for Passenger Cars II-60 FAW Group Teams Up with TMC II-61 Guangzhou Honda's Zengcheng Plant Commences Production II-61 Tata Motors Outlines $2.6 Billion Expansion Strategy II-61 Suzuki to Construct Assembly Unit in Japan II-61 Dongfeng Motor Constructs Technical Center in Guangzhou II-61 Fuji Heavy to Sell Subaru-Brand Passenger Vehicles in Mexico II-61 FAW Group Establishes 4th Passenger Car Plant in Chengdu II-62 Kia Begins Serial Car Manufacture in Slovak Facility II-62 ZF Develops 6 HP 28 Transmission for Passenger Cars II-62 Isuzu and Toyota Join Forces for Advanced Diesel Engine II-62 JRD Joint Venture Company Builds Automobile Factory in Vietnam II-62 Nissan and Suzuki Expand Business Alliance II-62 Mitsubishi Companies Collaborate to Develop 2-liter Engines II-63 Audi Hungaria Begins Manufacture of Audi TT Coupe II-63 Severstal Auto and Fiat Auto Enter into Industrial Agreement II-63 Valeo Acquires Ford's Sheldon Road Plant and Automotive Components Holdings II-63 Proton and MMC Sign MOU on Cooperation Agreement II-63 Mitsubishi and Nissan Sign Supply Agreement II-63 PSA Peugeot Starts Manufacture of Peugeot 307 Sedan II-64 Mahindra and Renault Sign an MOU for Greenfield Plant II-64 Volkswagen to Build New Plant in India II-64 Shanghai Auto to Manufacture Own-brand Cars II-64 Nanjing Automobile Takes Over MG Rover II-64 Nissan to Market RSM's SM3 Passenger Car II-64 M&M and Renault Join Forces for the 'C' Segment Passenger Car II-65 Iran and Venezuela Team up to Manufacture Passenger Cars II-65 SAIPA to Manufacture Various Pride Models II-65 Sanyang Discontinues Local Assembly of Hyundai Passenger Vehicles II-65 Skoda Enters into Taiwanese Market II-65 Nissan and Dongfeng to Boost Passenger Vehicle Output II-65 Honda to Boost Pakistani Unit's Production Capacity II-65 Toyota to Manufacture Prius Hybrid Cars II-66 Nissan to Manufacture Small Passenger Cars in Thailand II-66 Toyota Group Plans to Produce Compact Cars for Indian Market II-66 Mazda to Install Advanced Idling Stop Systems in Passenger Vehicles II-66 Corning to Provide DuraTrap(R) AT Filters for Volkswagen's Passenger Cars II-66 Honda to Hike Auto Manufacturing Capacity in Brazil II-66 Shanghai Automotive Teams up with Two Thai Companies II-67 Nissan to Raise Output of Passenger Cars II-67 Dongfeng Yueda and Kia Motors Start Second Chinese Plant Construction II-67 Suzuki Starts Manufacture of New 1.4L Engine II-67 DaimlerChrysler Enters into Joint Venture Agreement with Unior II-67 Volkswagen Enters into Agreement with Daewoo II-67 Shanghai VW Inks Agreement with Skoda II-68 TPCA Inaugurates Car Production Plant in Czech Republic II-68 Hyundai Builds Second Assembly Plant in Chennai II-68 Toyota to Construct First Automobile Plant in Russia II-68 Nissan India Commences Operations II-68 SAIC Decides to Manufacture its Own Cars in China II-68 Cadillac to Manufacture Stretched STS Sedan in China II-68 Volkswagen Decides to Develop Touareg Variants Including a Coupe II-68 Honda Automobile (China) Co., Ltd. Begins Jazz Car Exports to Europe II-69 Tata Motors Enters into Alliance with HPCL II-69 DC Inks JV Agreement with BAIC II-69 Honda Commences Production of Fit Small Passenger Cars II-69 PSA Peugeot Citroen Commences Production of Peugeot 206 SW in Brazil II-69 Daimler-Chrysler Assembles Passenger Cars in China II-69
9. Product Introductions/Innovations II-70 Tata Motors Unveils the 'Tata Nano' II-70 Toyota Brand to Debut in Korea II-70 Honda Launches New Civic 1.8 V Model in India II-70 GM Unveils Optra Diesel II-70 Mitsubishi Launches Galant Fortis II-70 Mitsubishi Introduces Pajero TR4 Flex II-71 Mitsubishi Unveils the Delica D: 5 Minivan II-71 Toyota Unveils New 'Mark X ZiO' II-71 Lexus Introduces Hybrid Sedans II-71 Mahindra Renault Unleashes Logan in India II-71 Maruti Suzuki Rolls Out SX4 II-72 GM Launches Spark II-72 Fiat Unveils Palio Stile II-72 BMW released the '3-series' sedan II-72 Ford India Rolls Out the New Fiesta- ZXI II-72 Hyundai Motor India Unveils the New Getz Prime II-72 M&M Renault Joint Venture Launches Logan Sedan II-73 Maruti Udyog Limited Releases Swift Diesel II-73 Rolls Royce Unveils the New Phantom Drophead Coupe II-73 DC Releases Mercedes Benz S-Class and CL-Class in India II-73 Toyota to bring Prius to India II-73 M&M-Renault-Nissan JV Rolled Out Sedan Teana II-73 Nissan Altima Hits the Road in the US II-73 Toyota to Enter the Indian Small Car Market II-73 Tata Motors Unveils its Concept Car Elegante II-74 General Motors India Unveils Chevrolet U-VA II-74 GM Launches Chevrolet Spark from its New Plant II-74 Honda Launches Third Generation CRV Models in India II-74 Hindustan Motors Releases the Mitsubishi Lancer CNG Version II-74 Hyundai Verna Hits the Indian Roads II-74 MUL Unveils the New Zen Estilo II-74 American Suzuki Displays Full Range of 'Dune' Concept SUVs and Cars II-75 Mitsubishi Motors Unveils eK Sport and eK Wagon Models II-75 BMW Launches The BMW Hydrogen 7 II-75 Low Emission Compact Car Launched in UK II-75 Honda Launches 2007 Subcompact Fit II-76 Honda Reveals Step Bus Concept Vehicle at 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show II-76 MUL Unveils Stylixh Zen Estilo II-76 Nissan Introduces Basic and New Variants of X-trail II-76 Tata Motors Launches Estate and Sedan Versions of Indigo Range II-76 DaimlerChrysler India Unveils New E-Class Car in Kolkata II-77 Tata Motors Consolidates Presence in African Region II-77 Honda to Unveil New Honda Accord at Motor Show II-77 Lucas TVS Introduces Fuel-Saving Systems for Cars II-77 Nissan Launches All-New Skyline II-77 Nissan Unleashes All-New Infiniti G35 Sedan at SETEC II-78 Nissan Introduces New Presage 250 Highway Star II-78 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG to Showcase New Prosche Models II-78 Peugeot Debuts Dongfeng Peugeot 206 II-78 Renault Rolls Out New Kangoo Models II-78 Renault Launches Renewed Twingo Range II-79 Tata Motors Introduces New Indica V2 Xeta Series II-79 TMC Introduces Auris Compact II-79 Lexus Unveils GS450h II-80 Kia Launches New C-Segment Family Car II-80 Kia to Introduce Three New Vehicles at Geneva Motor Show II-80 Mazda Reveals Special Edition 'Axela Sport' and 'Demio' Models II-80 Mazda Equips Roadster Range with Power Retractable Hard Top II-81 FAW Debuts Besturn C301 into Luxury Segment II-81 FAW-Volkswagen Introduces Redesigned Bora Sedan II-81 Mercedes Launches 2007 S-Class Sedans II-81 DaimlerChrysler Launches 'Bionic' Diesel-Powered Car II-81 Tata Motors Displays Extensive Range of Vehicles at Moscow Motor Show II-82 Tata Motors Debuts Three Models at the Seoul Motor Show 2005 II-82 Toyota Launches Toyota Yaris in Brunei II-82 Nissan Unveils Wingroad Wagon II-82 Renault Rolls Out Clio Campus Pack Sport and Modus Alyum II-82 Renault Introduces Logan for Colombian Customers II-83 Tata Motors Launches the Indigo SX Range II-83 Maserati to Launch New Alfa-Romeo-Based Model II-83 Ford Introduces New Cars II-83 BMW Introduces Premium Compact II-83 Mercedes Unveils New S-Class Flagship II-83 Quattro GmbH Unviels a New Line - 'Audi Exclusive Line' II-83 Citroen Unveils New Executive Saloon Citroen C6 II-84 Audi Rolls Out A8 4.2 TDI quattro II-84 Audi Rolls Out Reengineered A3 Three-Door Model II-84 Porsche AG Rolls Out Cayman S Sports Car II-84 Ford Launches Eco Friendly Cars in Sweden II-84 Ford Introduces Modern Focus and Mustang GT Models in Taiwan II-84 Hyundai Unveils New Models and Fuel Cell Technologies II-85 Renault Forays into Morocco Market with Logan II-85 GM Daewoo Releases Chevrolet Aveo Worldwide II-85 Nissan Unveils New Micra Models II-85 Infiniti of Nissan Launches More Luxury Vehicles in Taiwan Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-85 Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-86 Maruti Unveils Swift Passenger Car in India II-86 Ford Introduces New Variant of Mondeo II-86 Hindustan Motors Unveils Lancer LX in Mumbai II-86 AvtoVAZ Introduces Lada-Kalina, New Passenger Cars II-86 Tata Africa and Tata Motors Launch a Wide Variety of Passenger Cars II-86 BMW Launches the New M5 II-86 Nissan Introduces Multimedia Car at ITS World Congress Held in 2004 II-86 Citroen Rolls Out Hi-Tech C5 Model II-87 Renault Forays into Malaysian Market with Kangoo II-87 Toyota and PSA Peugeot Roll Out Three New Compact Cars in Europe II-87 Hyundai Introduces Hatch Back Getz to Indian Passenger Car Market II-87 Skoda Unveils Superb II-87
10. Focus on Select Players II-88 Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (Germany) II-88 Chrysler LLC (US) II-88 Daimler AG (Germany) II-88 Porsche Automobil Holding SE (Germany) II-88 Fiat S.p.A. (Italy) II-89 Ferrari S.p.A (Italy) II-89 Ford Motor Company (USA) II-90 General Motors Corp. (USA) II-90 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-90 Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea) II-91 Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (Japan) II-91 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-91 PSA Peugeot Citroen (France) II-91 Renault Group (France) II-92 Toyota Motor Corp. (Japan) II-92 Volkswagen AG (Germany) II-92 Audi AG (Germany) II-93
11. Global Market Perspective II-94 Sales II-94
Table 44: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-94
Table 45: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-95
Table 46: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-96
Table 47: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Sales for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-97 Production II-98
Table 48: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-98
Table 49: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-99
Table 50: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-100
Table 51: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Production for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-101 .

Learn about the World Passenger Cars Market

2008-12-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

World Passenger Cars Market
http://www.reportlinker.com/p092464/World-Passenger-Cars-Market.html
This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Passenger Cars in Thousands of Units.The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2001 through 2015. A ten-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets with annual market analytics. The report profiles 86 companies including many key and niche players worldwide such as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Chrysler LLC, Daimler AG, Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Fiat S.p.A., Ferrari S.p.A, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corp., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Hyundai Motor Company, Mitsubishi Motors Corp., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault Group, Toyota Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG, and Audi AG. Market data and analytics are derived from primary and secondary research. Company profiles are mostly extracted from URL research and reported select online sources.
PASSENGER CARS MCP-4103 A GLOBAL STRATEGIC BUSINESS REPORT
CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY & PRODUCT DEFINITIONS Study Reliability and Reporting Limitations I-1 Disclaimers I-2 Data Interpretation & Reporting Level I-2 Quantitative Techniques & Analytics I-3 Product Definitions and Scope of Study I-3
II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. Current and Future Analysis II-1 Big Emerging Markets II-2
2. Competitive Analysis II-3 Toyota - The Leading Passenger Car Producer II-3
Table 1: World Top 10 Passenger Car Manufacturers (2006 & 2005): Percentage Breakdown of Production Volumes by Leading Car Manufacturers for Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen Group, Ford, Honda, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Nissan, Hyundai, Renault, Suzuki, and Others (includes corresponding sGraph/Chart) II-3 High-Growth Regions II-4 Transitional Phase II-4 Industry Woes & Solution II-4 Key Success Factors II-5 Evolution of Competitive Advantage Factors II-5
Table 2: Cost of Producing a Passenger Car (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-5 Demand Drivers in Passenger Car Industry II-6
3. Global Majors - A Strategic Insight II-7 General Motors II-7 Competitive Advantage II-7 Passenger Car Brands by Region II-7 Global Sales: Snapshots of Key Achievements in 2006 II-7
Table 3: Global Sales of Cars (2006) - Wholesale Volume Ranked by Operating GM Segment (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-8 Brand Strategy II-8 Audi Group II-9 The Audi Charisma II-9 Leading Markets II-9
Table 4: Top Ten Markets for Audi Cars (2007): Sales Ranked by Leading Region for Germany, China, UK, US, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Austria (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-9 Audi Group - Production of Audi and Lamborghini Brands II-9
Table 5: Production of Audi Vehicles (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Audi Vehicle Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-10
Table 6: Production of Lamborghini Brand of Cars (2007 & 2006): Breakdown by Model - Gallardo and Murcielago (In Units) II-10 BMW Group II-11 BMW Group - Production and Sales II-11
Table 7: BMW Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Production and Sales for BMW, MINI and Rolls- Royce Models (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 Regional Break-Up of BMW Sales II-12
Table 8: Volume Sales of BMW Group (2007): Break Up of Cars Sold by Leading Markets - USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France and Japan (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-12 BMW Production Base II-13
Table 9: Production of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Models by Volume (2007) - Ranked by Production Plant for Regensburg, Dingolfing, Oxford, Munich, Leipzig, Spartanburg, MagnaSteyr and Other Facilities (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13
Table 10: Sales of BMW Brands (2007): Ranked by Model for 3 Series, 5 Series, 1 Series, X5, X3, 7 Series, Z4 and 6 Series (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-13 Daimler AG II-14 Mercedes Car Group II-14 Sales II-14
Table 11: Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Units Sold for Mercedes-Benz and Smart (In '000 Units) II-14
Table 12: Passenger Car Sales of Mercedes Car Group (2007): Breakdown of Volume Sales for C-/CLK-/SLK-Class, A-/B-Class, E-/CLS-Class, M-/R-/GL-/G-Class, S-/CL-/SL-Class/SLR/Maybach and smart (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Production Base II-15
Table 13: Leading Production Base for the Mercedes Car Group (2007) - Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region for Europe, Asia, NAFTA, South America, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-15 Chrysler Group II-16
Table 14: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales for SUVs, Passenger Cars, Light Trucks, Minivans, and Sports Tourers (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-16
Table 15: Chrysler Group Sales (2006) - Break-Up of Unit Sales by Region for US, Canada, Mexico, and Outside NAFTA (In Units) II-16 Production Base II-17
Table 16: Leading Production Base of Chrysler Group (2006): Number of Production Plants Ranked by Region - NAFTA, Latin America, Asia, and Africa (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-17 Ford Motor II-17 Principal Brands II-17 Sales II-18
Table 17: Global Sales of Vehicles (2006 & 2005) - Automotive Business Unit Sales by Ford North America, Ford South America, Ford Europe, Premier Automotive Group, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa/Mazda (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-18 Honda II-18 Principal Brands II-19 Automobile Sales II-19
Table 18: Global Automobile Sales for Honda (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Sales by Region/Country for North America, Japan, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-19 Renault II-19 Global Sales II-20
Table 19: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Renault, Renault Samsung, and Dacia (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20
Table 20: Global Sales for Renault Group (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown by Volume Sales by Passenger Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles (In '000 Units) II-20
Table 21: Worldwide Break Up of Renault Group Sales (2007 & 2006) - By Region for Europe, France, Euromed, Americas and Asia-Africa (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-20
Table 22: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up of Volume Sales for Renault Group and Nissan Group (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21
Table 23: Vehicle Sales for Renault-Nissan (2007) - Percentage Breakdown of Volume Sales for Renault- Nissan by Region for Western Europe, Japan, Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Rest of the World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-21 PSA Peugeot Citroen II-21 Passenger Car Production II-22
Table 24: Global Production and Sales of PSA Peugeot Citroen for 2005 & 2006 (In '000 Units) II-22
Table 25: Global Production of PSA Peugeot Citroen (2005 & 2006): Breakdown by Region for Western Europe, Other European countries, Latin America, Asia- Pacific, Africa & Middle East, and Others (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-22 Hyundai II-23 Sales in Key Markets - A Recent Past Perspective II-23 United States II-23 Europe II-23 India II-23 China II-23 Toyota II-24 Global Sales II-24
Table 26: Vehicle Sales of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Break-Up by Region for North America, Japan, Europe, Asia and Other (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-24 Global Production II-25
Table 27: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume Production by Leading Region - Japan, North America, Asia, Europe, and Other Regions (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25
Table 28: Global Vehicle Production of Toyota (2007 & 2006) - Breakdown of Volume sales by Leading Brand - Toyota/Lexus, Daihatsu, and Hino (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-25 Fiat II-25 Automobile Sales II-27
Table 29: Automobile sales for Fiat (2006 & 2005) - Breakdown by Volume Sales for Western Europe (France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Western), Brazil, Poland, and Rest of World (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Porsche II-27 Global Sales II-27
Table 30: Global Sales for Leading Car Brands for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Volume for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, Carrera GT and RS Spyder (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-27 Global Production II-28
Table 31: Vehicles Production for Porsche (2005/06 and 2006/07) - Breakdown by Model for 911, Cayenne, Boxster, RS Spyder and Carrera GT (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Suzuki II-28
Table 32: Production Bases of Suzuki automobiles (2004-2006): Production in Japan and Overseas (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-28 Volkswagen II-29
Table 33: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Group (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29
Table 34: Global Vehicle Production and Sales of Volkswagen Brand (2007 & 2006) (In '000 Units) II-29
Table 35: Global Production of Volkswagen Passenger Cars (2007 & 2006): Top Ten Volkswagen Passenger Car Models Ranked by Production Volume (In 000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-29
4. Industry Overview II-30 Consumers - Cashing in on Incentives II-30 Effects of Economic Slowdown and Terrorist Attacks II-30 Factors Driving New Passenger Car Demand II-30 Macro-Economic Factors II-30 Size of the Economy II-30 National Economic/Regulatory Policies II-30 Fluctuating Exchange Rates II-31 Automobile Infrastructure II-31 Environmental Concerns II-31 Micro-Economic Factors II-31 Open Trade II-31 Regional Integration II-32 Consumer/Investment Financing II-32 Taxes II-32 Price II-32 Other Miscellaneous Factors II-32 What Ails the Global Passenger Car Industry? II-32 Overcapacity II-33 Low Profit Margins II-33 Fluctuating Oil Prices II-33 What's in a Name? II-33 Automotive Electronics - An Emerging Phenomenon II-33 The Future "Auto" Mobile II-34 Innovations in Automotive Electronics Over the Years II-34 Night Vision II-34 Electronic Power Steering System II-34 OnStar Mobile Concierge Service II-34 Intelligent Cruise Control II-34 Collision-Warning Systems II-34 Smart Airbags II-35 Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) II-35 Drive-by-Wire Systems II-35 Smart Sensors II-35 Telematics II-35 Programmable Logical Devices II-36 In the World of Automotive Electronics II-36 It Pays to Integrate Systems II-36 Shift in Responsibility II-36 Hi-tech Systems Form a Competitive Platform II-36 The Other Side of the Coin II-36 Sports Cars - Making a Come Back II-37 As Many Definitions as the Makers II-37 Demand Determinants II-37 Emotion - Steering New Sports Car Purchases II-37 High Prices - A Justification II-37 Can Exclusivity Hook Next Generation Americans? II-37 Sporty Cars - Redefining the 'Entry-level' Sports Car Segment II-38 Passenger Car Industry - A Background II-38 The Pioneers II-38 Effect of World War II II-38 Globalization Era II-39 Small Cars Make a Dent II-39 Era of Restructuring II-39
5. Industry Dynamics II-41 Consolidation - Towards a Smaller Market II-41 Growth Through Shrinkage II-41 Demand Determinants II-41 Overcapacity - Creating Chaos II-42 Why and How of Excess Capacity II-42 Protectionist Policies - Breeding Excess Capacity II-42 Is There a Way Out? II-42 On the Horns of a Dilemma II-43 Finding the Middle Ground II-43 Technological Frontier II-43 Auto-IT Nexus - Big Money Online II-43 E-Commerce II-44 Environmental Frontier II-44 Automobile Emissions - An Overview II-44 Petrol Vs. Diesel - Choosing between the Lesser of Two Evils II-44 Methods to Cut Down Auto Emissions II-44 Use of Catalytic Converters and Oxidation Catalysts II-44 Hiking the Air to Fuel Ratio II-45 Direct Injection Technology II-45 Alternative Fuels - A Healthy Alternative Towards Reducing Auto Emissions II-45 Biodiesel II-45 Electric Fuel II-45 Ethanol II-46 Hydrogen II-46 Methanol II-46 Natural Gas II-46 Propane II-47 P-Series II-47 Solar Fuel II-47 Emission Standards in the European Union II-47 Euro III Norms [With Effect from the Year 2000] II-47
Table 36: Emission Standard II-48 Euro IV Norms [With Effect from the Year 2005] II-48
Table 37: Emission Standard II-48 Emission Standards in the United States II-48 Tier-1 Standards II-49
Table 38: EPA Tier 1 Emission Standards for Passenger Car (In grams/mile) II-49 The National Low Emission Vehicle (NLEV) Program II-49 Californian Standards II-50
Table 39: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-50
Table 40: California Emission Standards for Light Duty Vehicles - 100,000 miles/10 Years (In grams/mile) II-50 Low Emission Vehicle II (LEV II) Standards II-51
Table 41: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 50,000 miles/5 Years (In grams/mile) II-51
Table 42: California LEV II Emission Standards for Passenger Cars and Light Duty Vehicles Below 8500 lbs. - 120,000 miles/11 Years (In grams/mile) II-51
6. Market Issues/Trends II-52 Bluetooth - The Emerging Phenomenon II-52 Technology Stokes Human/Machine Interface II-52 Cars are Built to Last II-52 End of Block Exemption -EU's Quest for Creating a 'Single Auto Market' II-53
7. Product Overview II-54 Passenger Cars - A Definition II-54 Classification based on Body Style II-54 Sedans II-54 Coupes II-54 Hatchbacks II-54 Convertibles II-54 Station Wagons II-55 Classification based on Size/Price/Utility II-55 Classification by Engine Displacement and Fuel Systems II-55
Table 43: Passenger Car Categories - By Engine Displacement II-55 Classification Based on Type of Fuel II-55 Classification - By Region/Country II-56
8. Recent Industry Activity II-58 Ford Agrees to Sell Jaguar Land Rover to Tata Motors II-58 GM Invests in DMAX Diesel Engine Plant II-58 Nissan and Mitsubishi to Expand Mini-Cars OEM Supply II-58 Toyota Plans a Second Plant in India II-58 Audi Opens Largest Car Dealership in India II-58 Tata Motors Ventures into Used Cars Business II-59 Nissan Signs an Agreement with MUL II-59 Cerberus Acquires Chrysler II-59 Ford Motors Divests Stake in Aston Martin II-59 M&M, Renault and Nissan's Three Way Joint Venture II-59 Mitsubishi Markets Mono-box Minivan under 'Delica D:5' Brand II-60 Ford Cuts Down Workforce and Capacity II-60 Dongfeng Honda Expands Auto Plant Capacity II-60 Tata Motors Plans for Capacity Expansion II-60 Fiat and Tata Form Joint Venture for Passenger Cars II-60 FAW Group Teams Up with TMC II-61 Guangzhou Honda's Zengcheng Plant Commences Production II-61 Tata Motors Outlines $2.6 Billion Expansion Strategy II-61 Suzuki to Construct Assembly Unit in Japan II-61 Dongfeng Motor Constructs Technical Center in Guangzhou II-61 Fuji Heavy to Sell Subaru-Brand Passenger Vehicles in Mexico II-61 FAW Group Establishes 4th Passenger Car Plant in Chengdu II-62 Kia Begins Serial Car Manufacture in Slovak Facility II-62 ZF Develops 6 HP 28 Transmission for Passenger Cars II-62 Isuzu and Toyota Join Forces for Advanced Diesel Engine II-62 JRD Joint Venture Company Builds Automobile Factory in Vietnam II-62 Nissan and Suzuki Expand Business Alliance II-62 Mitsubishi Companies Collaborate to Develop 2-liter Engines II-63 Audi Hungaria Begins Manufacture of Audi TT Coupe II-63 Severstal Auto and Fiat Auto Enter into Industrial Agreement II-63 Valeo Acquires Ford's Sheldon Road Plant and Automotive Components Holdings II-63 Proton and MMC Sign MOU on Cooperation Agreement II-63 Mitsubishi and Nissan Sign Supply Agreement II-63 PSA Peugeot Starts Manufacture of Peugeot 307 Sedan II-64 Mahindra and Renault Sign an MOU for Greenfield Plant II-64 Volkswagen to Build New Plant in India II-64 Shanghai Auto to Manufacture Own-brand Cars II-64 Nanjing Automobile Takes Over MG Rover II-64 Nissan to Market RSM's SM3 Passenger Car II-64 M&M and Renault Join Forces for the 'C' Segment Passenger Car II-65 Iran and Venezuela Team up to Manufacture Passenger Cars II-65 SAIPA to Manufacture Various Pride Models II-65 Sanyang Discontinues Local Assembly of Hyundai Passenger Vehicles II-65 Skoda Enters into Taiwanese Market II-65 Nissan and Dongfeng to Boost Passenger Vehicle Output II-65 Honda to Boost Pakistani Unit's Production Capacity II-65 Toyota to Manufacture Prius Hybrid Cars II-66 Nissan to Manufacture Small Passenger Cars in Thailand II-66 Toyota Group Plans to Produce Compact Cars for Indian Market II-66 Mazda to Install Advanced Idling Stop Systems in Passenger Vehicles II-66 Corning to Provide DuraTrap(R) AT Filters for Volkswagen's Passenger Cars II-66 Honda to Hike Auto Manufacturing Capacity in Brazil II-66 Shanghai Automotive Teams up with Two Thai Companies II-67 Nissan to Raise Output of Passenger Cars II-67 Dongfeng Yueda and Kia Motors Start Second Chinese Plant Construction II-67 Suzuki Starts Manufacture of New 1.4L Engine II-67 DaimlerChrysler Enters into Joint Venture Agreement with Unior II-67 Volkswagen Enters into Agreement with Daewoo II-67 Shanghai VW Inks Agreement with Skoda II-68 TPCA Inaugurates Car Production Plant in Czech Republic II-68 Hyundai Builds Second Assembly Plant in Chennai II-68 Toyota to Construct First Automobile Plant in Russia II-68 Nissan India Commences Operations II-68 SAIC Decides to Manufacture its Own Cars in China II-68 Cadillac to Manufacture Stretched STS Sedan in China II-68 Volkswagen Decides to Develop Touareg Variants Including a Coupe II-68 Honda Automobile (China) Co., Ltd. Begins Jazz Car Exports to Europe II-69 Tata Motors Enters into Alliance with HPCL II-69 DC Inks JV Agreement with BAIC II-69 Honda Commences Production of Fit Small Passenger Cars II-69 PSA Peugeot Citroen Commences Production of Peugeot 206 SW in Brazil II-69 Daimler-Chrysler Assembles Passenger Cars in China II-69
9. Product Introductions/Innovations II-70 Tata Motors Unveils the 'Tata Nano' II-70 Toyota Brand to Debut in Korea II-70 Honda Launches New Civic 1.8 V Model in India II-70 GM Unveils Optra Diesel II-70 Mitsubishi Launches Galant Fortis II-70 Mitsubishi Introduces Pajero TR4 Flex II-71 Mitsubishi Unveils the Delica D: 5 Minivan II-71 Toyota Unveils New 'Mark X ZiO' II-71 Lexus Introduces Hybrid Sedans II-71 Mahindra Renault Unleashes Logan in India II-71 Maruti Suzuki Rolls Out SX4 II-72 GM Launches Spark II-72 Fiat Unveils Palio Stile II-72 BMW released the '3-series' sedan II-72 Ford India Rolls Out the New Fiesta- ZXI II-72 Hyundai Motor India Unveils the New Getz Prime II-72 M&M Renault Joint Venture Launches Logan Sedan II-73 Maruti Udyog Limited Releases Swift Diesel II-73 Rolls Royce Unveils the New Phantom Drophead Coupe II-73 DC Releases Mercedes Benz S-Class and CL-Class in India II-73 Toyota to bring Prius to India II-73 M&M-Renault-Nissan JV Rolled Out Sedan Teana II-73 Nissan Altima Hits the Road in the US II-73 Toyota to Enter the Indian Small Car Market II-73 Tata Motors Unveils its Concept Car Elegante II-74 General Motors India Unveils Chevrolet U-VA II-74 GM Launches Chevrolet Spark from its New Plant II-74 Honda Launches Third Generation CRV Models in India II-74 Hindustan Motors Releases the Mitsubishi Lancer CNG Version II-74 Hyundai Verna Hits the Indian Roads II-74 MUL Unveils the New Zen Estilo II-74 American Suzuki Displays Full Range of 'Dune' Concept SUVs and Cars II-75 Mitsubishi Motors Unveils eK Sport and eK Wagon Models II-75 BMW Launches The BMW Hydrogen 7 II-75 Low Emission Compact Car Launched in UK II-75 Honda Launches 2007 Subcompact Fit II-76 Honda Reveals Step Bus Concept Vehicle at 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show II-76 MUL Unveils Stylixh Zen Estilo II-76 Nissan Introduces Basic and New Variants of X-trail II-76 Tata Motors Launches Estate and Sedan Versions of Indigo Range II-76 DaimlerChrysler India Unveils New E-Class Car in Kolkata II-77 Tata Motors Consolidates Presence in African Region II-77 Honda to Unveil New Honda Accord at Motor Show II-77 Lucas TVS Introduces Fuel-Saving Systems for Cars II-77 Nissan Launches All-New Skyline II-77 Nissan Unleashes All-New Infiniti G35 Sedan at SETEC II-78 Nissan Introduces New Presage 250 Highway Star II-78 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG to Showcase New Prosche Models II-78 Peugeot Debuts Dongfeng Peugeot 206 II-78 Renault Rolls Out New Kangoo Models II-78 Renault Launches Renewed Twingo Range II-79 Tata Motors Introduces New Indica V2 Xeta Series II-79 TMC Introduces Auris Compact II-79 Lexus Unveils GS450h II-80 Kia Launches New C-Segment Family Car II-80 Kia to Introduce Three New Vehicles at Geneva Motor Show II-80 Mazda Reveals Special Edition 'Axela Sport' and 'Demio' Models II-80 Mazda Equips Roadster Range with Power Retractable Hard Top II-81 FAW Debuts Besturn C301 into Luxury Segment II-81 FAW-Volkswagen Introduces Redesigned Bora Sedan II-81 Mercedes Launches 2007 S-Class Sedans II-81 DaimlerChrysler Launches 'Bionic' Diesel-Powered Car II-81 Tata Motors Displays Extensive Range of Vehicles at Moscow Motor Show II-82 Tata Motors Debuts Three Models at the Seoul Motor Show 2005 II-82 Toyota Launches Toyota Yaris in Brunei II-82 Nissan Unveils Wingroad Wagon II-82 Renault Rolls Out Clio Campus Pack Sport and Modus Alyum II-82 Renault Introduces Logan for Colombian Customers II-83 Tata Motors Launches the Indigo SX Range II-83 Maserati to Launch New Alfa-Romeo-Based Model II-83 Ford Introduces New Cars II-83 BMW Introduces Premium Compact II-83 Mercedes Unveils New S-Class Flagship II-83 Quattro GmbH Unviels a New Line - 'Audi Exclusive Line' II-83 Citroen Unveils New Executive Saloon Citroen C6 II-84 Audi Rolls Out A8 4.2 TDI quattro II-84 Audi Rolls Out Reengineered A3 Three-Door Model II-84 Porsche AG Rolls Out Cayman S Sports Car II-84 Ford Launches Eco Friendly Cars in Sweden II-84 Ford Introduces Modern Focus and Mustang GT Models in Taiwan II-84 Hyundai Unveils New Models and Fuel Cell Technologies II-85 Renault Forays into Morocco Market with Logan II-85 GM Daewoo Releases Chevrolet Aveo Worldwide II-85 Nissan Unveils New Micra Models II-85 Infiniti of Nissan Launches More Luxury Vehicles in Taiwan Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-85 Nissan Unveils Five Cars in China II-86 Maruti Unveils Swift Passenger Car in India II-86 Ford Introduces New Variant of Mondeo II-86 Hindustan Motors Unveils Lancer LX in Mumbai II-86 AvtoVAZ Introduces Lada-Kalina, New Passenger Cars II-86 Tata Africa and Tata Motors Launch a Wide Variety of Passenger Cars II-86 BMW Launches the New M5 II-86 Nissan Introduces Multimedia Car at ITS World Congress Held in 2004 II-86 Citroen Rolls Out Hi-Tech C5 Model II-87 Renault Forays into Malaysian Market with Kangoo II-87 Toyota and PSA Peugeot Roll Out Three New Compact Cars in Europe II-87 Hyundai Introduces Hatch Back Getz to Indian Passenger Car Market II-87 Skoda Unveils Superb II-87
10. Focus on Select Players II-88 Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (Germany) II-88 Chrysler LLC (US) II-88 Daimler AG (Germany) II-88 Porsche Automobil Holding SE (Germany) II-88 Fiat S.p.A. (Italy) II-89 Ferrari S.p.A (Italy) II-89 Ford Motor Company (USA) II-90 General Motors Corp. (USA) II-90 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-90 Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea) II-91 Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (Japan) II-91 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan) II-91 PSA Peugeot Citroen (France) II-91 Renault Group (France) II-92 Toyota Motor Corp. (Japan) II-92 Volkswagen AG (Germany) II-92 Audi AG (Germany) II-93
11. Global Market Perspective II-94 Sales II-94
Table 44: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-94
Table 45: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-95
Table 46: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-96
Table 47: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Sales for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-97 Production II-98
Table 48: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-98
Table 49: World Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-99
Table 50: World Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-100
Table 51: World 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Production for USA, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Latin America, and Rest of World Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) II-101
III. MARKET
1. The United States III-1 A.Market Analysis III-1 Current and Future Analysis III-1 Employee Pricing III-1 Will these Pricing Strategies Continue? III-1 Domestic Auto Industry's Blitzkrieg to Reclaim Credibility III-2 Diesel Powered Cars to Make Comeback III-2 Competitive Analysis III-2 Leading Passenger Car Models III-2
Table 52: Leading Passenger Car Models in the US (2006): Annual Estimates of Volume Sales for Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Malibu, Honda Civic, Nissan Altima, Chevy Impala, Chevy Cobalt, Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra (In '000 Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-2 Industry Overview III-3 Performance Tied to General and Market-Specific Factors III-3 Factors Fueling Competition III-3 Foreign Brands Make Substantial Inroad III-3 Price Factor - A Major Competitive Platform III-3 Big 3 - Not Beyond Competition III-3 Competition in the Overseas Market III-4 Exports Exhibit "Moderate" Potential III-4 Trends and Issues III-4 Growing Popularity of Trucks and SUVs III-4 Financing - A Successful Sales Tool III-4 E-Model: Gaining Fast Market Acceptance III-4 The Green Movement III-5 Mercury - A Potent Pollutant III-5 Regulations III-6 Belt Use and Child Restraint Laws III-6 Revamped FMVSS No 202 - Head Restraint Requirements for Passenger Cars III-6 Unveiling of Anton's Law for Rear Seat Occupants in Passenger Vehicles III-6 NHTSA of the US Makes LATCH System Mandatory for Child Safety Seats III-6 NHTSA Makes Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Mandatory for Passenger Cars III-6 Market Trends & Issues in the Recent Past III-7 Bag of Mixed Feelings III-7 Foreign Brands- on the Upswing III-7
Table 53: Incentives on Light Vehicles by Automakers in the US (June 2003): Ranked by Country-of-Origin (In US$) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-7 Imspact of Economic Slowdown and Terrorist Attacks III-8 Industry Consolidation III-8 Consumers in Conservative Mood III-8 Blue Shades out All other Colors III-8 Product Launches III-8 Strategic Corporate Developments III-10 Select US Players III-11 B.Market Analytics III-12
Table 54: US Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-12
Table 55: US Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-13
Table 56: US Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-13
Table 57: US Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-14
Table 58: US Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-14
Table 59: US Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-15
2. Canada III-16 A.Market Analysis III-16 Current & Future Analysis III-16 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-16 Top Ten Passenger Vehicle Models III-16
Table 60: Top Passenger Vehicle Models in Canada in the Recent Past (2004): Annual Volume Sales for Honda Civic Sedan/Coupe, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege, Pontiac (GM) Sunfire, Toyota Echo, Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Focus, Honda Accord, Chevrolet (GM) Impala, and Toyota Camry (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-16
Table 61: Passenger Car Sales of Leading Players in Canada in the Recent Past (2000-2004): Annual Volume Sales for Canada Toyota, Canada Honda, Canada Mazda, Canada Nissan, Canada Subaru, and Canada Suzuki (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-17 Classification of Passenger Cars III-17
Table 62: Passenger Cars Market in Canada (2003-2005): Percentage Breakdown of Volume Sales by Type of Passenger Car - Compact, Subcompact, Intermediate, Luxury, and Sport (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-17 Trends and Issues Over the Years III-18 The "Compact" Revolution III-18 Growing Popularity of Alternative Fuel Systems III-18 Light Trucks and Minivans Last Longer Than Passenger Cars III-18 Vehicle Affordability III-18 Misplaced Tax Breaks III-18 Industry Overview III-18 Change - The Only Constant Variable III-18 Preferred Alternative Fuel System Supplier III-19 B.Market Analytics III-19
Table 63: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-19
Table 64: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars -Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-19
Table 65: Canadian Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-20
Table 66: Canadian Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-20
Table 67: Canadian Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-21
Table 68: Canadian Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-21
3. Japan III-22 A.Market Analysis III-22 Current and Future Analysis III-22 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-22
Table 69: Leading Manufacturers of Passenger Cars in Japan (2005 & 2004): Production for Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki-Maruti, Mazda, and Mitsubishi (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-22 Industry Overview III-22 Japan - A Major Automobile Market in the World III-22 Change in Vehicle Registration Criteria III-23 Customer Profile III-23 Industry Consolidation III-23 Exports Scenario in the Recent Past III-23
Table 70: Exports of Passenger Cars from Japan (2001-2003) In Units (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-24 Product Launches III-24 Strategic Corporate Developments III-27 Select Japanese Players III-29 B.Market Analytics III-30
Table 71: Japanese Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-30
Table 72: Japanese Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-31
Table 73: Japanese Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-31
Table 74: Japanese Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-32
Table 75: Japanese Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-32
Table 76: Japanese Historic Review for Passenger Cars - Annual Production Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-33
4. Europe III-34 A.Market Analysis III-34 Current & Future Analysis III-34 Market Overview III-34 Classification of Passenger Cars in the EU III-34 Categorization by Segment III-34 Categorization by Bodies III-35 Competitive Analysis - A Recent Past Perspective III-35 Leading Passenger Car Brands in Europe III-35
Table 77: Passenger Car Companies in Europe (2006 & 2005): Breakdown of New Registrations (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-35 Leading Passenger Car Models in Europe - 2004 III-36
Table 78: Leading Passenger Car Models in Europe (2004): Annual Volume Sales for Renault Megane, Ford Focus, VW Golf, Peugeot 206, Peugeot 307, Renault Clio, Opel Astra, Opel Corsa, Ford Fiesta, and Fiat Punto (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-36 New Registrations by Country Make in Western Europe III-36
Table 79: Leading Makes in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations by Make - European, American, Japanese, and Korean (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-36 Leading Passenger Car Brands in Western Europe III-37
Table 80: Leading Passenger Car Brands in Western Europe (2003-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Opel, Ford, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Toyota, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, SEAT, Nissan, Hyundai, and Skoda (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-37 Leading Diesel Passenger Car Models in Western Europe III-38
Table 81: Leading Diesel Passenger Car Models in Western Europe (2003): Annual Volume Sales for Peugeot 307, VW Golf, Peugeot 206, Renault Megane, VW Passat, Ford Focus, Renault Clio, Audi A4, BMW Series 3, and Mercedes E-Class (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-38
Table 82: Diesel Car Population in Select European Countries (2004) in Units per 1000 Inhabitants (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-38 American Players III-39
Table 83: Leading American Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Opel, Ford, Volvo, SAAB, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Chevrolet III-39
Table 84: Leading American Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Opel, Ford, Volvo, SAAB, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Chevrolet (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-39 Japanese Players III-40
Table 85: Leading Japanese Players in West European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi III-40
Table 86: Leading Japanese Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-40 Korean Players III-40
Table 87: Leading Korean Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2004): Ranked by Unit Sales for Hyundai, KIA, Daewoo, and Others III-41
Table 88: Leading Korean Players in Western European Passenger Car Market (2004 Vs 2003): Annual Sales for Hyundai, KIA, and Daewoo (GM) In Units III-41 European Groups III-42
Table 89: Leading European Groups in West European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Volkswagen, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Fiat, Daimler Chrysler, BMW, and Rover III-42
Table 90: Leading European Groups in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001- 2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Volkswagen, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Fiat, Daimler Chrysler, BMW, and Rover (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-42 Top European Brands III-43
Table 91: Leading European Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Ranked by New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes, Audi, BMW, SEAT, and Skoda III-43
Table 92: Leading European Brands in Western European Passenger Car Market (2001-2005): Breakdown of New Registrations for Renault, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, SEAT, and Skoda (In Units) (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-43 Trends III-44 End of Block Exemption - A New Paradigm III-44 Regulations Introduced- An Overview III-44 Common Platforms - A Popular Cost Reduction Strategy III-44 B.Market Analytics III-45
Table 93: European Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region / Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2001 through 2010 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-45
Table 94: European Long-term Projections for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 2011 through 2015 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-46
Table 95: European Historic Review for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets Independently Analyzed with Annual Sales Figures in '000' Units for Years 1991 through 2000 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-46
Table 96: European 15-Year Perspective for Passenger Cars by Geographic Region/Country - Percentage Breakdown of Unit Sales for France, Germany, Italy, The UK, Spain, Russia, and Rest of Europe Markets for Years 1998, 2008 & 2012 (includes corresponding Graph/Chart) III-47
Table 97: European Recent Past, Current & Future
To order this report: World Passenger Cars Market
http://www.reportlinker.com/p092464/World-Passenger-Cars-Market.html

Sporty and smart: Maruti Suzuki launches A-star, hopes new model will drive sales

2008-12-02T21:25:00.000-08:00

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) has unveiled its new 5-door hatchback, the powerful, compact and light weight, state-of-art and sporty looking 'A-star' to fuel new excitement in the slumping small car market segment.

"November and December are usually tough months for car makers. Knowing that very well, we are launching the A-Star so that it can bring excitement to the market," said Mayank Pareek, executive office (marketing and sales), MSIL.

"A-star delivers a fantastic driving experience with futuristic looks and it is the most relevant car that addresses the needs of today's customers, be it India or any other part of the world," Pareek said on the sidelines of the launch in New Delhi on November 19.

MSIL, which controls about 56 percent market share in the small car segment, said A-star is an environment-friendly car that meets the Euro-V norms and boasts of excellent fuel efficiency, high performance, lower emission, best-in-class safety features, and "fantastic driving experience."

Ninety-five percent of the parts used in the A-star car, a MSIL official said, are indigenous and 85 percent of the parts in the car are recyclable and free from hazardous materials like Lead, Cadmium, Mercury and Chromium.

Equipped with the new-generation three-cylinder, lightweight aluminum 998cc K10B engine, A-star offers power of 67ps @ 6200 rpm and torque of 90Nm @ 3500 rpm.

MSIL claims that according to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the A-Star delivers a mileage of 19.59 km per liter.

A-star is available in India in three variants (Lxi, Vxi and Zxi) at a price of Rs.346,775 upwards (Delhi ex-showroom price) and MSIL plans to export it in 150 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, Australia and Africa.

MSIL has set an overall ambitious export target of 200,000 units by 2010-11. "Our initial plan is to sell 50,000 A-Star cars in the domestic market and 100,000 cars in the European market," said M.M. Singh, managing executive officer (production), MSIL.

A-star car, which is expected to take on Hyundai i10, is Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp.'s fifth World Strategic Model. Suzuki holds 56 percent stake in New Delhi-based MSIL.

http://in.ibtimes.com/articles/20081201/sporty-and-smart-maruti-suzuki-launches-astar-hopes-model-will-drive-sales.htm

Buy Repo Cars - Tips Before Buying

2008-11-12T04:33:00.000-08:00

When you go to buy repo cars from an auction or online directory, there are many great deals out there. It is very common to get repossessed cars for 90% off of their book value. However, there are a few tips you should know to get the best bang for your buck and to ensure that you have made a smart purchase.

Firstly, you have to understand that many of these cars will have small mechanical problems with them because they have thousands of miles on them. Since you are getting them for way below the book value, it is still worth paying some cash to get these problems fixed. When you buy repo cars, you will still save a ton of money even if the fix costs you a few hundred dollars.

It is very rare that test drives are permitted at these repo car auctions, so you should get to the auction lot as early as you can to take time and check out each vehicle that interests you. If you don't know much about cars it's a great idea to bring a friend that does, so he can point out things that you may not notice. Before you buy repo cars it's imperative that you are confident in it and this inspection before the auction begins will insure that your money is going to a good purchase.

There are online directories available displaying local auctions to buy repo cars in your area. I would suggest getting a list of some cars that you like from these directories and looking up the Blue Book value for each one. Now when you go to look at them on auction day you know how good or bad of a deal you are getting. These online directories also display the starting bid and the VIN of the vehicle.

If you really want a specific car, but you are hesitant because you can't test drive it, you can look up its history report at CarFax with the cars VIN. This will inform you of all the work done on the car in the past and I use it whenever I buy repo cars myself to ensure I'm making a smart purchase.

Always be prepared before going to buy repo cars. Check which cars will be on the auction lot by searching local auto auction databases. The author has reviewed the top repo auto auction websites (with database search) at http://www.risingproducts.com/carauctionreview.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_Hayfield

Cars For Sale Online

2008-10-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

Over the past few years used cars have become more and more popular all over the world, many people are realizing that a good used car can be bought at half or even a quarter price of a brand new car. Though a used car may have a few thousand miles, this does not mean that the car is not in good condition considering the fact that cars are made to last unless the car is mishandled by the owner.

There are various ways of shopping for cars, this may be through news paper advertisements, posters or visiting various car dealers including searching through the internet which is currently the easy way to search for good cars since the internet offers a massive selection of cars at the comfort of your seat for the buyer to choose from.

There are many sites that specialize in providing used cars and general important information about used cars to the public and these sites mainly focus on people who are looking for used cars to buy in order to save money. You can browse thousands of cars you like or cars around your area within a matter of minutes which will ensure that you do not miss out on any good deals that may be available.
Read More

Daimler CEO says car markets were weak in August

2008-09-19T02:40:00.000-07:00

HAMBACH, France (Reuters) - Several car markets were "very weak" in August, especially in Europe, Daimler's chief executive told reporters on Wednesday.

"We were affected as well," Dieter Zetsche said, although he added that the company's Mercedes-Benz and Smart brands performed relatively well compared with the competition.

He said the company had delivered more than 90,000 Smart minicars this year as of the end of August but did not give any more details.

Daimler also announced that serial production of Smart cars with electric power would start from 2012 at the latest. A limited production run of Smart cars with lithium-ion batteries would start late next year.

Zetsche said the Smart business would make a profit again this year and that its sole plant in Hambach still had room to raise output.

Sales of the Smart brand in China will start early next year, but it did not plan to tap the market in Brazil or India at this stage, he said.
http://in.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idINIndia-35301420080903

India's Tata group unveils world's cheapest car

2008-08-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI (AFP) — India's giant Tata Group Thursday unveiled what it has billed as the world's cheapest car -- a compact and no-frills family vehicle set to revolutionise the market of 1.1 billion people.

The four-door five-seater car, due to hit the market later this year at just 100,000 rupees (2,500 US dollars), has a small 33bhp 624cc engine at the rear and is targeted at Indians hoping to trade up to four wheels from a motorcycle.
The Tata 'Nano' -- which looks almost exactly like a Smart -- has no air conditioning, no electric windows and no power steering for the basic model, although two deluxe models ...

http://findarticles.com

Hyundai Rides Demand for Small Cars

2008-08-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

Its plans for luxury models may slow, but the Korean automaker will still benefit from high gas prices thanks to its gas-sippers

Oil may have retreated from record highs over the past week, but the painfully high price of gasoline has dampened Hyundai Motor's campaign to go upscale (BusinessWeek.com, 12/7/07) with sport-utility vehicles and bigger, more luxurious cars. But $4-a-gallon doesn't seem to be hurting its growth strategy. The reason: It has a solid lineup of small gas-sippers, and just as important, ready capacity.

The numbers show this isn't the time for Korea's top automaker to shed its image as a maker of small, inexpensive cars. As its bigger global rivals slumped, Hyundai on July 24 posted a quarterly revenue record of $9.03 billion in three months ending in June, up 13% from a year earlier. Its operating profit in the quarter rose 6%, to $657 million, but currency-related losses pushed net profits down 11%, to $542 million. (The company lost $149 million in currency-derivatives investments and $99 million in its Indian operation because a sharp fall in the Indian currency increased its debt costs.)

Now Hyundai is once again trumpeting its small cars (BusinessWeek.com, 7/18/08), and it's considering building them in the U.S. starting next year (it already builds the midsize Sonata sedan and Santa Fe SUV at a plant in Montgomery, Ala.). "Just as Honda established itself with a fuel-efficient engine when the world was rocked by the first oil shock, this new era of high oil prices will serve as a similar opportunity for us," says Yoon Mong Hyun, Hyundai's managing director in charge of business strategy planning.
Small-Car Opportunity

Early signs are encouraging. In June, as overall U.S. auto sales fell by 8%, Hyundai hit a monthly record, selling 50,000 vehicles, up 14% from a year earlier, according to selling-day-adjusted statistics from researcher Autodata. Sales of the compact Elantra jumped 51%, the subcompact Accent was up 70%, and the Sonata climbed by 12%.

Hyundai is adding to its offerings of diminutive vehicles to take advantage of that opportunity. The company this year will introduce a new Elantra wagon in the U.S., based on a compact called the i30 sold in Europe. That will be the first of about a half-dozen new small models the company plans to introduce in the U.S. over the next five years, quadrupling its current small-car lineup. It may also make small cars such as the Elantra at a new plant in West Point, Ga., that its affiliate Kia Motors expects to open next year.

Hyundai's small cars are a hit in fast-growing emerging markets, too. In China and India, Hyundai's sales rose a combined 27%, to 263,500 in the first six months of this year as it has added new, small models (BusinessWeek.com, 1/30/08): the European-styled, $7,850 i10 mini in India, and the $14,600 Yuedong compact in China. The company's target is to boost market share to more than 20% in India this year, from 17% last year, and to 6.1% in China, from 4.6%. Another looming market is Russia, where Hyundai nearly doubled its car sales, to 47,100, in the first half of this year.
A Good Small-Car Environment

The ambitious growth target is linked to Hyundai's aggressive plan to add new capacity. In the past year, it has opened two new plants—one in Beijing and the other in the southern Indian city of Chennai—each with annual capacity of 300,000 small cars. The company is also building a factory of similar size in the Czech Republic for completion next year, and in June it broke ground for one in Russia that it hopes to open in 2010. "The capacity appeared excessive before high oil prices sparked a sudden hike in small car demand," says Ahn Soo Woong, head of research at brokerage LIG Investment & Securities. "Now, Hyundai looks smart with the additional facilities."
http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jul2008/gb20080724_659211.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_global+business

How to Buy Cheap Cars from Government Auctions

2008-07-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

If you want to know how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, look no further than your own local city. Police and government auctions are held all the time featuring cheap cars that have been repossessed or taken as property of the state. Call you local officials to find out more about how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, such as when these auctions are being held and where they are located. You're bound to turn up some good information. You can also check listings in your local paper, which should carry information about such things.

If you're wondering about how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, then you must already know that buying cars from government auctions is a good way to turn a profit for yourself. You can re-sell these cheap cars to buyers who are looking for used cars for a variety of reasons. If you know anything about cars or work with someone who does, you can even do a little work on the cheap cars, upgrading them and thus upping their re-sell value. When you know how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, there are plenty of ways to make money.

How to buy cheap cars from government auctions isn't the hardest question to find an answer to. The question is how to find buyers from the cars you buy at government auctions? Put up colorful, eye-catching signs on busy roads, and be sure to list your cars in local newspapers and perhaps even on the Internet. There are buyers out there, and the answer to finding them is in advertising. Knowing how to buy cheap cars from government auctions is the first step toward turning cheap cars into great profit for yourself.

If you want to know how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, simply look around. Listen for announcements on the radio. Call your local government office. Check out listings in the newspaper. When you know how to buy cheap cars from government auctions, those cheap cars can become very valuable indeed.

Good luck Buying Cheap Cars from Government Auctions!!

Repossessed Foreclosures: How to Buy Them Dirt Cheap!

Seizedgovauctions.com -- Government Seized Cars and Real Estate!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Emma_Drosy

A car that could dial a phone, play DVDs

2008-07-19T03:05:00.000-07:00

When you watch a James Bond movie, you can't help gawking at the smart Aston Martin that executes breathtaking manouevres at Bond’s command. What if you could own such a car that could dial a phone, play DVDs for your family and be an extension of your digital home—all at one voice command? And now all this is for real.

The people who dreamt up such cars in the 1960s auto shows were a little off on the date. But finally some initial versions of these electronically-governed cars are on the highway. You can already buy cars with adaptive cruise control that automatically slow down if the radar or laser detects you tailgating. Your car can warn you when you stray across lane markings, and these kinds of sensors are already being used experimentally in cars that drive themselves.

Playing an important role is a clutch of Indian companies collaborating with global majors. Multinationals like Intel or Wind River and Freescale Semiconductor are working with players like Delphi in the Tier-I category. But it is the smaller players making the components that have made India a powerhouse in auto component design, which are working towards a single platform on which all electronic devices can work on.

Varroc Group, a supplier of automotive parts for automobiles in the domestic and overseas markets with manufacturing facilities across India and two plants in Europe, has seen the benefits. It works with Freescale on a low-cost digital dashboard for the Bajaj Pulsar, and is now looking at smart consoles for next-generation cars. “There are other projects happening with them as well,” says Ashok Chandak, Sr VP of the Aurangabad-based company, adding that Freescale’s expertise has helped make them attain the next level of sophistication.

“The era of intelligent driving systems is at our doorstep,” says Sanat Rao, marketing director, emerging markets, at Intel India. At the firm’s sprawling office in Bangalore, he explains how the Intel Atom 1.6GHz is integrated with other hardware and seamlessly interacts with the operating system. Intel is working with other companies to shorten the time it takes for intelligent voice recognition devices to get to the market and is creating a unified platform for the same. Designed on operating systems like Moblin that work in mobile devices, it is made for high-end cars. “The ecosystem consists of digital 3-D maps, speech recognition for every function, and so on for this embedded system,” informs Rao.

However, the low-cost production capacities of SMBs will ensure a basic level of such a platform even on low-end cars. “I am impressed at the quality of our smaller partners,” says Sanjeev Keskar, country sales manager, Freescale Semiconductors. Take the case of Pricol. Its subsidiary, Pricol Technologies, is a product design engineering company involved in embedded system development and providing CAD services.

“We have our own R&D facilities and we are working with Freescale for support in making the application,” says AS Ramaseshan, COO, Pricol Technologies. Wind River, that is making the operating system for such devices, has made a prototype of the digital console at its Bangalore office.

“This has Bluetooth, a USB drive and speech recognition,” says Venkatesh Kumaran, country manager, India. The touch screen displays every critical element of engine performance when you choose to see it, plays music and movies, and can download content though a USB cable. Not surprisingly, some of the key components and even the final console will have players like Varroc and Pricol playing key roles to make it affordable. “In future, such cars will “talk” to other smart cars on the road,” says Kumaran.

That would enable closely spaced cars to move in unison (and react more quickly to problems than humans could). A road system filled with these cars wouldn’t even need traffic lights as the cars could just talk among themselves. As Intel’s Rao puts it, we’d all experience being Bond, at least in our cars.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News

AIR CAR SET TO ENTER INDIA

2008-07-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: With environment on everyone's mind, fuel prices shooting and global warming hitting economies eco-friendly cars are ruling the day. They have become the hot item in the eyes of the public and more importantly the green item. One such car which uses compressed air as fuel is the "Air car." French company "Moteur Development International" (MDI) has researched and developed the MiniC.A.T .

Tata Motors, India's largest automobile company, has signed an agreement with MDI for application in India of MDI's engine technology, and believes the engine is viable - It's press statement describes it as "efficient, cost-effective, scalable, and capable of other applications such as power generation". The MiniCAT could cost around $ 8177 in India and would have a range of around 300 km between refuels.

The cost of a refill would be about $ 2. Although there is no official word on when the car will be manufactured in India, report says it will be sooner than later. Tata motors will also launch the world's cheapest car, Tata Nano for $2500 by October, in India. The MiniC.A.T which is a simple, light urban car, with a tubular chassis that is glued not welded and a body of fibreglass powered by compresed air. Microcontrollers are used in every device in the car, so one tiny radio transmitter sends instructions to the lights, indicators etc.

There are no keys - just an access card which can be read by the car from your pocket. Most importantly, it is incredibly cost-efficient. According to the designers, it costs less than one Euro per 100Km (about a tenth that of a petrol car). Its mileage is about double that of the most advanced electric car (200 to 300 km or 10 hours of driving), a factor which makes a perfect choice in cities where the 80% of motorists drive at less than 60Km. The car has a top speed of 68 mph. Refilling the car will, once the market develops, take place at adapted petrol stations to administer compressed air. In two or three minutes, and at a cost of approximately $2.3, the car will be ready to go another 200-300 kilometres.

As a viable alternative, the car carries a small compressor which can be connected to the mains (220V or 380V) and refill the tank in 3-4 hours. Due to the absence of combustion and, consequently, of residues, changing the oil (1 litre of vegetable oil) is necessary only every 50,000Km.] The temperature of the clean air expelled by the exhaust pipe is between 0-15 degrees below zero, which makes it suitable for use by the internal air conditioning system with no need for gases or loss of power.

Zero Pollution Motors(ZPM) expects to produce the world's first air-powered car for the United States by late 2009 or early 2010. As the US licensee for Luxembourg-based MDI, which developed the Air Car, ZPM has attained rights to build the first of several modular plants, which are likely to begin manufacturing in the Northeast and grow for regional production around the country. And while ZPM is also licensed to build MDI's two-seater OneCAT economy model (the one headed for India) and three-seat MiniCAT (like a SmartForTwo without the gas), the New Paltz, NY, startup is aiming bigger, company officials want to make the first air-powered car to hit US roads a $17,800, 75-hp equivalent, six-seat modified version of MDI's CityCAT that is said to travel as far as 1000 miles at up to 96 mph with each tiny fill-up. Another car gaining popularity because of its features is the Mercedes-Benz Smart.

To date, over 900,000 smart vehicles have been sold in 36 other countries throughout the world. In January 2008, the United States became the 37th country to sell the Smart Fortwo. The models available in the United States are the smart fortwo pure coupe (entry-level), the smart fortwo passion coupe (well-equipped) and the smart fortwo passion cabriolet (well-equipped convertible). The smart fortwo ranges from $11,590 to $16,590. The most fascinating feature is that one can book this car for just $99.

The top speed of the smart fortwo is 90 mph (Electronically limited). Protecting the environment, energy efficiency and preservation of natural resources are hallmarks of smart brand. For example; only water-soluble paints are used for the Smart's three basic colors - black, white and yellow. Painting of the tridion safety cell is done by the powder-coating process. This removes the need for solvents.

The body panels with molded-in color are fully recyclable. Environmental management is a high priority. Smart is dedicated to protecting the environment with future focused recycling and an environmental policy that makes a strong statement.

The smart fortwo is also classified as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) on account of its extremely low exhaust emissions. The catalytic converter is positioned close to the engine for a quick response. An electric pump blows fresh air into the exhaust port when the engine is cold to almost completely oxidize the carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC) and render them harmless.

http://indiapost.com/article/usnews/3151/

Car Manufacturers

2008-06-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

This trend apparently reflects the aspirations that parents have for themselves and for their children, and can include brand names of luxury cars, perfume, clothing, and even food. There were about 250 other car manufacturers when Ford built his Model T assembly plant in 1908, however, he built more cars in one day than most of his rivals could build in one month. With their own choice of weapons and battle-ready cars, players can enjoy hours of fresh game play in this story-based career mode.

Networks think of a Best Effort plan (above) as a freeway with congested traffic where traffic stops and starts according to the number of cars trying to drive on the road at the same time. Think about the marketing and advertising campaigns that get your attention, the clothes you wear, the house you live in, the cars you drive, the cell phone you carry or any number of other decisions you make and you'll find that design plays a key role in your decision. Design Matters. Car purchase loans: things you must know All the cars are considered as brand new unless stated hence full manufacturers warranties are offered.

On the other hand, diesel trucks and cars are mostly turbo charged, and they already run at a higher compression ratio. GPS receivers come in various formats, from devices integrated into cars, to phones to watches. These trailers have the capacity of carrying heavy loads while smaller trailers are available for vans, smaller cars and even motorcycles.

By downplaying the appearance of the cars-calling them "wrecks" he allowed the media to expect dented, scratched, beat-up cars. Towels must also be dried on a line if they are laid on the concrete or asphalt they can pick up tiny rocks that can scratch the surface of the cars. Most cars are designed with a CD changer, wherein multiple disks are held in the head unit.

There are also special insurance policies to cover company cars, professional indemnity insurance and other key man insurance policies. Examples are cars, finance, computer equipment, and professional services where a buyer will actively seek details for comparison prior to making a purchase. The invention of new technology in cars make them gaining.

Deep inside, we're not our cars or our cell phones or other tools, but our choices will always send signals to customers, and if we're smart, we may orchestrate those signals to produce the best possible results.

Soli Katir

http://www.i-need-money-fast.com

Smart Repair - India Style

2008-06-15T01:10:00.001-07:00

Car Rental In India

2008-05-31T00:18:00.000-07:00

Car rental is the most prevalent mode of travel in India. India is best explored by cars on hire and car rental in India is not a tedious task. Every travel company provides car and coach rentals in India. Luxury car rentals in India are the most safest and easiest method of enjoying your trip apart from being in the lap of luxury.. The business of Car rentals in India is on a boom and majority of car and coach rental India’s service providers’ provide much required basic guidance to the tourist and also take care to provide much desired privacy to their clients.

The cars on hire in India are apt for you if you are coming to India for the first time. One should Rent cars in India if want to explore the local community. While driving towards your destination you can enjoy the stunning sight seeing of India. Travel by cars in India and you will not miss a single place along with.

The main benefit of hiring cars in India is that you can visit many other places, which are difficult to be accessed through various other modes of transport. The car and coach rental in India eases up your task and journey.

The cars on hire in India are popular for their excursions, like on excursion to Rajasthan, one can enjoy the drive with car rental in Rajasthan. For the purpose of enjoying Rajathan to the fullest you can avail the service of car hire in Delhi and drive straight to Jaipur. On Delhi- Jaipur highway you can pamper their taste buds by feasting on the mouthwatering food at the roadside cafes. Many travel agents in Jaipur also provide car rental in Jaipur as well as to other places in Rajasthan.One can drive to Jodhpur from Jaipur which is a short 5 hours drive away and Indian cars on hire provide the perfect getaway vehicle what with so many luxury car makers in India like Toyota, Mercedes Benz, Fiat etc setting up their base here.

On reaching Jodhpur, one can either stay and enjoy the forts and palaces in India and also see the Luxury car collection of the Kings of yesteryears or drive to Osian- a small village on the border with amazing sand dunes. In fact, with luxury car rental in India the drive to desert doesn’t hurts and is in fact enjoyable.

While driving from Jodhpur to Udaipur or Jaisalmer the car & coach rental companies in India provide best drivers and guide services to ensure that the drive remains a memorable affair.

You can rent cars in India and visit the enchanting places like Khajuraho, which is the most popular tourist destination in India. Car hire in Khajuraho is a good option because one can easily explore the exotic Khajuraho temples. The temples of khajuraho are world famous.

Cars in India are provided for all the tourist as well as pilgrimage places. Metropolitan cities like Mumbai also provide cars on hire. Car rental in Mumbai is a very good option if you want to view the beautiful places within Mumbai as well on the out skirts of Mumbai, like the beautiful hill station of Khandala.

http://www.ezinearticles.com

India elects a new Idol

2008-05-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

This past spring, eight finalists gathered at a TV studio in Mumbai (also known as Bombay) for the weekly taping of Indian Idol The singers were art in their late teens and 20s; each dreamed of making it big in Hollywood, India's movie industry. The winner, chosen by popular vote, would get a Sony recording contract and a brand-new car.

Indian Idol, similar in format to American Idol, is among several TV talent shows that have become popular in India. Most of the contestants come from smart towns and villages. This year's winner of Indian Idol, Sandeep Acharya, became known as "the boy from Bikaner," a town in northwestern India. The popularity of these contests seems to reflect a belief among Indian youth that they can make it on merit, and that democracy will win out over favoritism or family connections.

http://findarticles.com

Race Cars Are Fun For Kids

2008-04-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

Many people dream of driving a race car. Even the kids dream about it. They love to see stylish and cute looking cars speeding over the race tracks. Children, especially boys, are fascinated with race cars and their drivers. Race car drivers are often idolised by the kids. So, how about gifting them a race car on their birthday? No, we are not talking about the real race cars here. These are the small race cars, like electronic toys. The small toy cars are miniature versions of big cars. There are bigger versions of race cars too. Children can actually sit in those cars and drive them too. There is a wide variety of race cars available in the market. These are good looking and safe for kids too.

The race cars are available in varieties of materials, shapes and sizes. The features of the car decide its cost. If you go in a toy shop, you will find a variety of race cars. These are generally the 'pull back and release' cars. The advanced version of the toy race cars is the remote controlled one. The sensor in these cars is operated with a remote. The race cars run according to the remote command. Some of the more advanced versions operate on voice command. Kids can store their voice pattern in the cars. Later on, the car runs on similar voice command.

The larger 'sit-in' versions of race cars are truly unique. You can see such cars at Kart racing. These race cars, also known as go- karts are provided with 2 or 4 stroke engines. The engine generates power of about 4 to 7 hp. The engines can be anything between 100 cc, 125 cc and 250 cc. The larger capacity engines are generally not put in the cars for kids below 15 years. You can choose the engine capacity as per the kid's age. The engines transmit power to the rear wheels. Such cars are available in a variety of models. Some of the cars possess the chassis like a motocross race car. The body is made up of iron rods or fibre. Whatever may be the type, kid's safety is the first priority in these cars.

There are institutes which offer professional race car learning courses for the kids. Kids can enrol their names into the institute and learn how to drive a car. Kids are given safety helmets before sitting in the car. Seat belts are also provided. They are taught how to shift gears and accelerate the cars. Kids soon get to know about how to control the steering wheel. These cars normally produce low power. The gear box is provided without clutch. Brakes are hydraulic. The race cars are petrol driven. Some of the cars may require electric energy.

If you don't want to give as a present a car that has an engine, then you can always gift a paddled race car. The pedals are fit inside the car body. A kid sits inside and drives the car by peddling it like a bicycle. This is rather the safest race car.

http://www.ezinearticles.com

Where to Buy Cheap Used Cars

2008-04-02T23:40:00.000-07:00

While it is cool to have a brand new car, it’s not bad to buy a used car. If you are on a tight budget, you can still get a good conditioned used car for the least amount of money. Here are some tips on where to buy cheap used cars.

You can buy cheap used cars from private seller. Usually these private sellers advertise on newspapers. Check your local newspaper to know the used cars for sale in your area. Although you may not find a very large list of used cars for sale, you can still look at this option to check and buy cheap used cars.

Another option to buy cheap used cars is through used car dealers. You may find good deals through used car dealers; they usually make thorough assessment and check up of used vehicles they are selling. But you still need to check the reputation of the dealers before you transact with them.

Browse the net. Another way to find and buy cheap used cars is through the internet. There are a lot of websites featuring used cars for sale. If you are patient enough to browse the net you can find what you are looking for and buy cheap used cars online.

Another opportunity to buy cheap used cars is through car auctions. Usually, car auctions are organized by police, the government or auction lots. Used cars sold here may come from the surplus of government vehicles, repossession or impounding. Before going to a used car auction, you have to be sure about the type of auction you are going into. Make sure to attend the preliminary inspection to prepare before the actual auction and get a good deal.

http://www.ezinearticles.com/

Facts With Used Cars

2008-03-08T05:17:00.000-08:00

Keep in mind that interest rates for new cars are lower than those applicable to used cars, and that the period of repayment for the new ones is also longer. Consumers successfully make purchase decisions about cars, computers and financial products, so why can't they make an educated decision about their health care, asks industry expert Regina Herzlinger, Harvard Business School professor. Any one of these cars on this list is available at a dealership near you and sold for a reasonable price.

From there it happily ticks off the typical Bond staples; fast cars, beautiful women, luscious locations and cracking action. Just like car buying, pick out your car (or choice of cars) before you negotiate a price. How can we sell car washes, recruit new customers and at the same time provide a proper image for our customers and the corporations where we clean cars.

This is a windfall for people that made big purchases such as luxury cars or live in a state where income tax is not collected such as Florida. This driver fatigue system could easily be a multi-Billion Dollar Industry considering the number of cars and Trucks on the road.

Oprah Winfrey actually gives employees new cars and trips around the world. With the many fatalities on the road, teenage drinking, speeding, carjacking, cars breaking down, people getting lost, and people being abducted and murdered, parents need to know there is a way to protect their loved ones. Zis for Zoom: the noise cars make on the highway. Drivers must attach an electronic monitor to their cars that downloads information that is generated and stored there in diagnostic chips included in most newer model vehicles.

Second-Hand Cars

2008-03-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

In the primitive age, the only means of transportation and the only way of commuting from one place to another was with the aid of the domestic animals like camels, horses etc. After the discovery of the wheel came carts. But in the present times, it is impossible to conceive of the world without cars. The car is the premier automobile which traverses the streets and highways and with the progress of time, there have been innovated various forms of cars like the sports cars, the formula one cars used in racing, the smart cars possessed with artificial intelligence and it is impossible to forget the various cars devised for the superheroes from Batman's celebrated fictional Batmobile to James Bond's Aston Martin. These cars had emerged as an extension of the superhero's personality rather than being simple mechanical devices used for transportation. Cars are available in major showrooms of the different brands but it is also possible for individuals to buy second hand cars or used cars at lower prices.

While it is true that these used cars are sold by private dealers, rental car companies and various other outlets, used cars are simply those vehicles which have had one or more owners earlier. Not only companies, but even individuals can engage in selling their vehicles personally by advertising in newspapers or online.

In case of engaging in buying used cars, it is necessary for the individual to follow certain guidelines propounded by the Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule to make sure that one is not duped as it is a common occurrence in these cases. The guidelines are recorded in the Buyer's Guide which sets down certain conditions. All the terms and conditions agreed upon by the buyer of the used car and its previous owner must be officially certified in pen and paper. The mechanical and electrical devices within the car must be checked and tested by an efficient unbiased mechanic to make sure that it is functioning properly. The buyer of the used car must also acquire all information about the vehicle from the previous owner especially regarding the basic problems faced by him with the car. It is also significant to note that whether the vehicle is sold with a warranty and if so, the fraction amount the seller would pay for repair work during warranty period should be specified. In the United States , the used vehicle trading comprises a separate industry recording yearly sales of $370 billion and it has sold twice the amount of new cars in 2005.

Asian Cars: Auto Manufacturers to Watch

2008-01-19T02:11:00.000-08:00

The Asian automobile manufacturing market is much broader than many American consumers understand it to be. Beyond Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and other household names there are quite a few automakers that are growing in size and respectability in their own markets. Two of these companies have already committed to selling their models in the U.S., but there are three others worth knowing about and watching.

Starting in 2007, two Chinese automobile manufacturers will be exporting cars to the U.S. and Canada. Geely Automobile Company and the Chery Automobile Company are part of the first wave of new Asian automakers preparing to serve the U.S. market. I won’t go into more detail about these two manufacturers, so please read a related article I wrote titled, “Chinese Cars: Redefining the Market,” to learn more about them.

Proton -- Proton Holdings, the parent corporation of Proton Motors, is the largest manufacturer of vehicles in Malaysia. Volkswagen and Proton signed a strategic partnership agreement in October 2004 whereby Volkswagen cars would be built on Proton assembly lines beginning in 2006. Apart from the VW venture, Proton has a line of models of its own consisting primarily of subcompact and compact sized vehicles. Proton cars are currently exported to Australia and the company is eyeing the U.S. market perhaps as early as 2010. In addition to its VW relationship, Japanese automaker Mitsubishi owns nearly a 16% share in Proton.

Hindustan -- Since 1950, Hindustan Motors has been building cars for the Indian market. Their current line up of automobiles, looking as if they were built in the 1950s, do not match up to current world styling standards. However, the emerging Indian economy has been providing remarkable growth across all business sectors and the Indian automobile industry is ripe for renewal. The Ambassador Grand, one such model, has recently been updated to meet current European emissions standards. Look for a Hindustan model to be exported to Europe first before taking on the highly competitive U.S. market.

Tata -- Unlike Hindustan Motors, India’s Tata Motors is currently producing cars that look as if they were designed recently. As the only Indian car company featuring cars built and designed by Indians, the company’s Indica V2 and Indigo compacts have received a favorable reception at the Geneva Auto Show. Plans to export directly to the U.S. have been considered but Tata cars may get to the U.S. under another label before then, such as Ford or Dodge.

Best Used Car Warranties

2008-01-16T22:07:00.000-08:00

The need for cars has increased tremendously over the past few decades. Every person dreams of owning a car, but many people cannot afford to own a new car. They settle for used cars. Many used cars have problems, and the buyer may end up spending more on repairs. Sometimes the figures are equivalent to the price of a new car.

A lot of car agencies now conduct their own tests to identify the condition of a used car and the need to repair it. These companies offer extended warranties on these used cars as a way to assure the buyer of the quality of the used vehicle. If any problem arises out regular use of the vehicle, the car agency or dealer repairs it for the customer free of charge within the warranty period.

The condition of a used car depends a lot on the usage and maintenance by a previous owner. Certain car owners take very good care of their cars. These cars do not require repair. On the other hand, some cars are not maintained and this leads to periodic repairing and maintenance. Buyers need to invest in the best-used cars available, as they give more value for money and require less maintenance.

Car dealers, companies and agencies examine these used cars and certify them according to their condition. Different dealers have different certifications, which may vary. These certifications can be used as guidelines for buying used cars. Normally, the warranty given on used cars depends on the condition of the car. They range from six months to one year. Used car buyers can get additional warranties on the car that they have purchased based on the condition of the car and certification.

Nitro Powered Cars

2007-12-23T06:16:00.000-08:00

Another type of RC car is the nitro powered model cars. We all know that nitro powered cars are fast and it’s what most hobbyists’ reason why nitro cars are often chosen over electric RC cars. But of course, this isn’t an ideal car model for beginners. Compared to electric powered models too, nitro cars give the real feeling of how racing should be. Over the years, development has been improved for better and efficient running.

There are numerous disadvantages in using nitro cars and maintenance among them. Dirt is easily accumulated after a short run and the chassis of the car requires cleaning in a regular basis. Also, another requirement for maintaining nitro powered cars is how it should be properly tuned. Nitro cars need to perform in top condition and maximum speed without consuming much of the fuel. Through proper tuning, overheating of these types of cars is prevented.

Compared to electric powered cars, a battery-powered car can achieve a run of about 10 minutes tops and then the batteries need to be recharged again; whereas nitro cars can be driven for longer duration.

A nitro powered car has four distinct parts and it includes special nitro fuel, the high horsepower engine, the pipe for tune exhaust and the air filter can be replaced. These parts are important for cleaning and regular check up because if these materials are neglected; a possible mechanical wear could happen.

One safety precaution falls under collision. Nitro cars are more prone to collision with other nitro cars due to the speed and power during acceleration. It’s important to be aware first of safety measures regarding nitro cars before putting them to the real test. Generally, nitro cars require more attention since it asks for a lot of maintenance; but you can guarantee its performance as well if handled with great care.

Quality Cars

2007-12-16T02:11:00.000-08:00

Of course if they do prep the car prior to wash it slows the speed, cuts down the volume of cars that can be washed in the day and changes the consistency of each car washed due to the human element. Now, if you are looking at new cars, is buying or leasing a better option for you.

By 1914, he was building more cars in one day than most competitors could build in one year. By downplaying the appearance of the cars-calling them "wrecks" he allowed the media to expect dented, scratched, beat-up cars. By cleverly designing their buildings, they can stack 10-12 cars between the order point and pickup, so the customer waits 3 minutes but moves every 18 seconds so time flies by. I had names for my cars and machines and an uncommon ability to repair them. Cars have changed a lot over the years and my uncle wants someone who can not only turn a wrench, but be able to read a computer. If you have purchased energy efficient cars or heating/cooling devices make sure you claim this credit on your income tax.

Well really there are many things they can do, from giving out coupons to senior citizens, for 80% off to free detailing for the local church who has cars donated to them to sell. You may have a great idea for flying cars, but if consumers are not ready for your product you may not be able to turn your idea into a successful business. After gathering this information, he started taking me in the direction of the jeeps and sports cars.

For example, if you were selling big, gas-guzzling cars, you would stress the comfort, luxury interiors, prestige, reliability and smooth riding capacity of the car. That's why many automobile makers design cars that are categorized as "woman cars".

Get A Street Smart When You Run A Business In India

2007-12-08T22:59:00.000-08:00

Business environment in India is a bit different from the business environment in many developed countries; India has a boutique business environment. More specifically, procedures to get various administrative tasks done aren’t exactly straightforward. They are arbitrary and a lot of human communication can get involved; bribing is one of examples. Understanding the environment itself takes time, and actually maneuvering in the environment is quite difficult. It’s unlikely that those from foreign countries can smoothly get administrative tasks done. Furthermore, while I’d risk saying that most Indian people are honest and hardworking, it is easy for foreigners to get tricked by some bad apples; they might not be scammed and have a lot of money stolen, but they can easily overpay for various services. For this reason, it is advisable that you hire a reliable street smart to assist you to run a business in India.

Having a dependable accountant and a banker is essential in India even if you run a small business, and you need a street smart to find a dependable accountant and a banker for you. When you run a business in any country, it is ideal that you have a dependable accountant and a banker; however, this is not only ideal but also it is very critical in India, while having a dependable accountant and a banker is not absolutely necessary to run a (small) business in a developed country. To describe briefly, accounting and banking are more complex in India than accounting and banking in many developed countries; one of reasons is corruption. Corruption is everywhere, so this makes accounting and banking very confusing and tricky, and thus, you definitely need to get help from a dependable accountant and a banker.

Corruption is everywhere, that is, bribing is everywhere, and you need a street smart to pass bribes for you. Every single administrative task requires you to pass a bribe to the public official who takes care of it. Also passing small gifts is not an uncommon practice; this often enables you to get administrative tasks done much faster and without a lot of hassle. The problem, however, is not bribing or passing gifts as far as you are concerned; the fact that you do not know exactly when or how to pass bribes or pass gifts is the problem. This is when you need a street smart.

There are emergencies and they are bound to happen, and this is arguably the most important reason why you need a street smart to assist you. For example, you might become very sick, and you need to see a good doctor to get well. A certain financial transaction might not be going through for variety of reasons, but you might have to get it done somehow. You might need to create a couple of documents from thin air to get a certain administrative task done. There are many emergencies, and creativity is often required to get through emergencies, and you need a street smart who can help you with his/her creativity.

Car Rental In India

2007-12-02T23:43:00.000-08:00

While driving from Jodhpur to Udaipur or Jaisalmer the car & coach rental companies in India provide best drivers and guide services to ensure that the drive remains a memorable affair.

Cars in India

2007-11-23T01:02:00.001-08:00

India is presently ranked 17th amongst auto car manufacturing countries in the world. Keeping in pace with the ever growing demand for cars, the production of cars has also been on a high off late. Thanks to a huge export potential and favorable Government policy, multinational companies have been eyeing at India to set up their manufacturing facilities. According to auto experts and analysts, India is poised to become third largest auto car manufacturing hub in the world by 2020.

Amongst the newly launched cars in small & mini car segment, General Motors’ Chevrolet Spark & Aveo U-Va have received tremendous response from the market. With the launch of these Chevy brands, General Motors India has thrown a tough competition to the predominant Indian auto giants like Tata and Maruti. The stupendous growth the GM car sales bears testimony to the growing popularity of Chevy brands in India. Hyundai and Fiat are the other major players that are present in this segment.

In the sedan and luxury sedan segment, General Motors’ Chevrolet Optra and recently launched Optra Magnum have been receiving rave reviews from auto enthusiasts and auto experts. With the launch of Chevrolet Aveo and Optra Magnum which have a class defined performance, GM India eyes at grabbing 10% of the share in Indian car market by 2010.

In the multi utility vehicle segment General Motors’ Tavera is directly competing with Toyota Innova and Mahindra Scorpio. Tavera has been doing consistently well and has been delivering best in class mileage to its customers.