SkodaAuto India, a fully owned subsidiary of SkodaAuto a.s., Czech Republic and one of the most promising automobile companies in India, today announced a sales growth of 24% for the month of August 2010 over July 2010. SkodaAuto India’s total sales for August 2010 stood at an impressive 1511 units. Skoda has registered impressive growth in this year riding on the success of Skoda Superb and New Skoda Laura.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Thomas Kuehl, Director & Board Member, Sales and Marketing, SkodaAuto India said “I am extremely delighted with SkodaAuto’s continuing growth as we gear up for the exciting period ahead. To further propel Skoda’s success in the Indian market, we will soon introduce Skoda’s first SUV “YETI”. This eagerly awaited car from Skoda’s stable has been extremely successful globally and our initial feelers from the Indian consumers have been very positive.”
Mr. Ashutosh Dixit, Senior General Manager, Sales and Marketing, SkodaAuto India commented “SkodaAuto’s growth in India has been a result of our commitment to the customers. We are extremely proud to state that SkodaAuto India has been rated No. 3 in Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) by J D Power Survey 2010. In line with our commitment towards the customers, we recently introduced the Skoda Shield. Skoda Shield is an unique package of benefits which provides zero worries ownership experience for all customers”
SkodaAuto India recently introduced Skoda Shield which provides up to “4 years of carefree driving”. The all inclusive package consists of Basic Motor Insurance, 24X7 roadside assistance and Extended Warranty to enhance overall ownership experience. Customers can opt for the SkodaShield at a nominal fee only at the time of purchase of new car.
SkodaAuto India sales up by 24% in August 2010
Posted by Admin | 3:54 AM | Sales Report, Skoda | 0 comments »Mahindra Two Wheelers registers 279% growth in August 2010
Posted by Admin | 3:42 AM | Mahindra Two Wheelers | 0 comments »Mahindra Two Wheelers, a part of the US $7.1 billion Mahindra Group, has further consolidated its presence in the two wheeler segment, with record sales of 15,165 units in August 2010.
Mahindra Two Wheelers today announced that its sales for the month of August 2010 stood at 15165 units, as against 4005 units in August 2009, an increase of 279%.
Total cumulative sales from April to August 2010 stood at 54261 units, as compared to 12948 units for the same period last year, an increase of 319%.
“We are very happy with the response to our Power Scooters. Consumers have laid their trust in brand Mahindra which has helped us grow more than 75% in the last four months. We have been achieving several milestones. Just a couple of months ago, we crossed a landmark figure of 1,00,000. Our efforts to come closer to consumers are also bearing fruit as we now have more than 370 dealer ships across the length and breadth of the country.” said Mr. Anoop Mathur, Sector President and Member of Group Executive Board Mahindra & Mahindra.
Mahindra 2 Wheelers’ Power Scooters cater to a range of consumer segments. The Mahindra Rodeo with its very innovative, contemporary features is popular amongst the Indian youth, while the Mahindra Duro is positioned as a family scooter. The Flyte is the Indian woman’s two-wheeler of choice.
Hyundai domestic sales up 17.2% in August 2010
Posted by Admin | 3:35 AM | Hyundai, Sales Report | 0 comments »Hyundai Motor India Ltd, the country’s second largest car manufacturer and the largest passenger car exporter continued to be on a growth trajectory with the domestic sales growing by 17.2% over the same month last year.
HMIL’s total sales for August, 2010 stood at 50,636 units as against 49,521 units in August, 2009 registering a 2.3 % cumulative growth over the same period last year. The domestic sales accounted for 28,601 units as against 24,401 units in August, 2009 while the exports declined by 12.3 % from 25,120 units in August, 2009 to 22,035 units in August, 2010.
Sales Figure of August 2010
HMIL sales | August , 2010 | August , 2009 | (%) |
Domestic | 28,601 | 24,401 | 17.2 |
Exports | 22,035 | 25,120 | -12.3 |
Cumulative | 50,636 | 49,521 | 2.3 |
Nissan India registers 1249 nos total sales in August 2010
Posted by Admin | 3:31 AM | Nissan, Sales Report | 0 comments »Nissan Motor India Private Ltd (NMIPL) today announced that it has registered total sales of 1249 nos for the month of August 2010 as against 22 nos in August 2009.
Out of the 1249 nos, the sales of the new Nissan Micra were 1182 units in Aug 2010 as against 928 nos sold in July 2010. Out of the remaining, Nissan Teana, the luxury sedan (CBU) clocked 21 nos in Aug 2010 as against 10 nos in Aug 2009 and Nissan X-trail; the lifestyle SUV (CBU) registered sales of 44 units as against 12 nos in Aug 2009. Nissan also sold 2 nos of its iconic sports car, Nissan 370Z in Aug 2010. So far, the company has already sold 4 units of 370Z since its launch in January this year.
In August 2010, owing to the overwhelming demand for the top-end variant (XV) - almost over 65%, the company was encouraged to re-align its initial production schedule to cater to this growing need. This has led to increase in the delivery period, which the company hopes to control and manage in the coming months. The company has also started second shift of production in August 2010 at its manufacturing facility at Oragadam, near Chennai to cater to the demand between domestic and exports. The company is expected to commence its exports during this month.
The top variant of Nissan Micra boasts of category first features such as keyless entry (i-key), push-button engine start-stop system and electric foldable mirror. Another unique feature is the intelligent multi-display meter, which supplies drivers with real time fuel economy information, cruising range and outside temperature. In addition, the driver power windows are fitted with ‘one touch up/down’ feature along with a pinch guard. Nissan Micra also comes equipped with category first driver airbags across all its variants.
The sales order book for Nissan Micra has been progressively increasing and the company has received around 3600 bookings. With the increasing footprint of its dealership network, the company hopes to have a far-reaching impact across the country, thus providing more and more customers the joy of an ownership experience of Nissan products and services.
The Nissan Micra comes with a standard manufacturers’ warranty of 2 years/50,000kms (whichever is earlier). In order to understand customer needs and resolve their queries, Nissan has established ‘Nissan Care’ – A Customer Contact Centre. Customers can reach Nissan by dialing Toll-free No 1800-209-4080 or alternatively by writing an email to customercare.hai@email.nissan.in
As part of its after-sales commitment, in an effort to handhold the customers and provide them with round-the-clock assistance, Nissan has introduced a host of customer care and service schemes including Extended Warranty and Roadside Assistance for its products starting with the Micra.
Renault Nissan Plant receives ISO Certification for Quality and Environment Management
Posted by Admin | 3:26 AM | Mahindra Renault, Nissan, OEM Certificate | 0 comments »
Renault Nissan Automotive India Pvt. Ltd. (RNAIPL) today announced that it has received ISO certifications for Quality - ISO 9001 and Environment Management system - ISO 14001. The plant has also received Homologation – whole vehicle type approval for European market in a short span of time from the Start of Production on 23rd May, 2010. RNAIPL receives these 3 certificates, at a significant time when it is ramping up production and gearing up to commence Export operations of its Global compact hatch - Nissan Micra.
Commenting on the receipt of ISO Certification, Mr. Akira Sakurai, M.D. and CEO RNAIPL, said, “Quality is always our primary focus and we wanted to achieve best quality from the very beginning of our operations. The certification has come in at a right time as we march ahead with our India operations and this is also a testimony to our quality excellence system and socio-environmental methodology that we have adopted at our Plant. We have already set a benchmark for construction of the plant and the receipt of ISO certification will add one more feather in our cap. “
Earlier, the ISO audit was done in two stages by Indian and German Certification Body Auditors (TUV and SUD) in the month of May and July. The plant, which follows the Alliance Production Way (Integration of Renault and Nissan Production Way) is aiming to achieve ‘Global Top Performer’ quality standards in 3 years. This is again an area where the Plant is looking to benchmark, as the current standard for ‘Global Top Performer’ is 4 years from the start of Production.
Hyundai Motor India announces price hike up to 1.2%
Posted by Admin | 3:24 AM | Hyundai, Prices | 0 comments »Hyundai Motor India, the country’s largest exporter and the second largest car manufacturer would be increasing the prices of its products by up to 1.2% across all models, from the 1st of September 2010. This increase is attributed to the increase in input costs.
Announcing the hike in prices, Mr. Arvind Saxena, Director, (Mktg. & Sales) Hyundai Motor India Ltd said, “There has been an increase in the input costs for car manufacturers. We have tried to absorb as much of the cost as we can, to cause as less inconvenience as possible to our valued customers.”
Mahindra & Mahindra signs MoU with Shriram Automall for commercial vehicle exchange programme
Posted by Admin | 3:22 AM | Finance, Mahindra | 0 comments »Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a part of the US $7.1 billion Mahindra Group, announced a strategic alliance with Shriram Automall (I) Ltd – Newlook Division, a pioneer and leader in the pre-owned commercial vehicles industry, today. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by both the parties, to facilitate an exchange programme which will enable M&M customers to exchange their old commercial vehicles with new commercial vehicles, from the company’s stable.
Under the aegis of this agreement, Shriram Automall – Newlook Division will work closely with M&M to evaluate and procure the old vehicles of M&M customers, under exchange. Shriram Automall – Newlook Division will service all the exchange inquiries within twenty-four hours, through its local representatives. Further, the old vehicles procured by Shriram Automall - Newlook Division would be refurbished and sold as per Shriram Automall - Newlook Division’s discretion, through its own network. Initially, this exchange program will be operative in the four southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala and will be subsequently extended to all the key markets.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Arun Malhotra – Sr. Vice President – Sales & Customer Care, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, ”With the launch of several products in the Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) range, we were keen to increase the commitment to our customers in this segment. Hence, through this partnership, we intend to drive synergies between both the businesses. Our endeavour is to leverage our strong distribution network of over 200 dealerships and Shriram Automall - Newlook Division’s expertise in this space, to enhance our value proposition to our customers. Going forward we are confident that this will expand the overall market and chart a new path for the industry. “
According to Mr.Gunasekaran, President, Shriram Automall (Newlook Division) "M&M and Shriram Automall – Newlook Division share a common desire—to provide customers with quality and cost effective solutions in the pre-owned commercial vehicles segment, which is currently operating through unorganized networks. Being the only organized player in the pre-owned commercial vehicle segment, we foresee a steady growth in this market. Through our collaboration with M&M we intend to capitalize on this growing segment”
Maruti launches K-Series K10 engine with Alto priced Rs 3.03 lakh
Posted by Admin | 10:45 PM | Hatchback, Maruti, New Launches | 0 comments »Honda launches Jazz X priced at Rs 7.53 lakh
Posted by Admin | 10:29 PM | Hatchback, Honda, New Launches | 0 comments »Toyota Launches the Corolla Altis Diesel in India priced between 10.95 and 13.75 lakhs
Posted by Admin | 3:21 AM | Diesel Model, New Launches, Sedan, Toyota | 0 comments »Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) today announced the launch of the Corolla Altis Diesel in India. The latest offering from TKM has been developed keeping in mind the distinctive requirements of the Indian customer with the basic concept of 'optimum balance of performance and economy'. India is the first Asian country to get the BSIV Corolla Altis Diesel.
The Corolla Altis is available with a newly developed 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder D-4D Common Rail Diesel Engine that generates a peak power of 88.4 PS and a peak torque of 205 Nm. Toyota's D-4D technology also used in the Innova, Fortuner, Prado and Land Cruiser 200 has earned a reputation the world-over for its high quality, durability and reliability.
The D-4D engine in the Corolla Altis is complemented by a 6-Speed Manual Transmission - a 'first-in-segment' offering ? to provide flat torque that would mean lesser gear shifting, leading to better fuel efficiency. The car has registered a best-in-class mileage of 21.43 km/l as certified by a test agency.
The Corolla Altis Diesel gets a differentiating sporty mesh grille, better aerodynamic characteristics, and the lowest NVH and best ground clearance in its segment. The car is available in seven colours - Silver Mica Metallic, Champagne Mica Metallic, Dark Red Mica Metallic, White Pearl Mica, Light Blue Mica Metallic, Super White and Black Mica.
The Corolla Altis Diesel comes in three manual transmission grades D-4D J, D-4D G and D-4D GL with competitive price tags between 10, 95, 000 and 13, 75, 000, ex-showroom Delhi. Bookings open today.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Nakagawa (MD, TKM) said, "The Corolla DNA that has been handed down for 40 years is now in its 10th Generation with over 35 million happy customers worldwide. The car made its debut in India in 2003, and now has more than 60,000 satisfied owners in the country. As part of our long-term commitment to bring the best of Toyota's technology to India, we are very proud to introduce the Corolla Altis Diesel. The Corolla Altis Diesel has Toyota's proven D-4D technology, and I am happy to say will have the best fuel efficiency in its segment. "
Mr. Sandeep Singh (Deputy Managing Director-Marketing, TKM) said, "Apart from the spacious interiors and luxury features of the Corolla Altis, the diesel variant has the best fuel efficiency, lowest NVH and the best ground clearance in its segment. Our target customers are individuals who are business professionals, in the 35 to 45 age group looking for a perfect balance of performance and economy. The launch of the Corolla Altis Diesel has enhanced Toyota's line-up in India, and we are looking at consolidating our leadership position in the C-segment with a sales target of 10,500 units for the Corolla Altis in 2010."
Mahindra FirstChoice Wheels authorized dealership inaugurated in Lajpat Nagar
Posted by Admin | 3:08 AM | Mahindra, Second Hand Car, Used Car | 0 comments »Mahindra First Choice Wheels Ltd., India’s largest multi-brand pre-owned car company, today inaugurated its authorized dealership in Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi. JKM Auto, located at B-Block, Lajpat Nagar IV is spread across 1,800 sq. ft with an additional parking area of approximately 2,500 sq – ft. The showroom was inaugurated by Mr. Rajeev Dubey, President (HR, After-Market & Corporate Services) and Member of the Group Executive Board, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
“I am delighted to inaugurate our newest dealership in Delhi, where Mahindra FirstChoice has already established itself as a leading pre-owned car company. The pre-owned car market in Delhi is growing at a rapid rate and the car market has immense scope of growth. JKM Auto Pvt Ltd is well poised to tap the potential of this market with its extensive infrastructure and the array of services it offers customers,” said Mr. Dubey.
“We are delighted to partner with Mahindra FirstChoice. JKM Auto will function as a one-stop shop for all those wishing to either buy or sell a car. The showroom will display all varieties of car brands. Customers can avail of an array of services under one roof, including purchase and sale of pre-owned cars, insurance, car finance, etc.” said Mr. Pankaj Nagpal, JKM Auto Pvt Ltd.
The Mahindra FirstChoice value proposition
Mahindra FirstChoice is the country’s preferred pre-owned car mart and is India’s only organized multi-brand player, with 125 outlets in 80 towns across India. The company plans to expand this number to 300 outlets in the next three years. This implies that customers will soon be able to choose from a range of certified pre-owned cars throughout India, including the metros and tier-2 towns and cities.
Tremendous attention to detail is required to ensure that each pre-owned car meets a high level of quality. Before purchasing the car, a trained engineer thoroughly inspects the vehicle and also sees to it that all papers are in order. After purchase, every car is refurbished and undergoes an extensive 118 point quality check by a trained engineer, as part of the company’s robust certification process. The objective behind the care and diligence exercised is to present the customer with a car in mint condition.
In short, buying a pre-owned car from Mahindra FirstChoice offers several advantages, including quality assurance, safety and a hassle-free driving experience.
Mahindra FirstChoice also offers 24x7 Road Side Assistance and warranty on certified pre-owned cars. The warranty, subject to specific terms and conditions, covers the important parts of the car. The 24x7 Road Side Assistance, subject to specific terms and conditions, assures the certified used car buyer that should the car break-down, he will be provided assistance. This warranty and road side assistance gives tremendous peace of mind to buyers.
Mahindra FirstChoice also has retail finance relationships with major banks and NBFCs in the country. As an industry first, Mahindra FirstChoice has recently partnered with Syndicate Bank to offer consumers finance rates comparable to those for new cars.
Mahindra FirstChoice also has a website – www.mahindrafirstchoice.com – which offers consumers the luxury of buying and selling pre-owned cars from the comfort of their own homes.
Fiat launches Grande Punto 90HP MULTIJET priced at Rs 6.79 lakhs
Posted by Admin | 5:09 AM | Fiat, Hatchback | 0 comments »Nissan launches Micra in India priced at Rs 3.98 lac
Posted by Admin | 10:51 PM | Hatchback, Nissan | 0 comments »Nissan Motor India Private Ltd (NMIPL) today announced its product offensive in India with the commercial launch of its first ‘Made-in-India’ compact hatchback – the new Nissan ‘Micra’. The Nationwide sales for the all-new Nissan Micra, which is been built on Nissan’s versatile ‘V’ platform would commence from July 15, 2010. Mr. Kiminobu Tokuyama, M.D. & CEO, NMIPL, Mr. G M Singh, Vice Chairman & MD, Hover Automotive India and Mr. Abhijeet Pandit, V.P –Sales, Marketing & After Sales, Hover Automotive India (HAI) along with dealers, trade partners and other key officials attended the event.
Nissan Micra is a smart, global hatchback simplifying urban mobility. The Micra has a rich legacy of 28 years and has established its credential by winning many awards. The all new Nissan Micra has been fine-tuned to meet the different tastes and needs of customers in both developed markets and emerging markets like India. Designed and tested in Japan and manufactured locally in India, Nissan Micra is a global car that will also be sold in advanced markets such as Europe, Middle East, and Africa among other countries
This 4th Generation Nissan Micra model is born out of the need to simplify the city chaos and enrich the urban driving experience. It is a reliable, stylish, safe and eco-friendly car for people who enjoy everyday driving.
In India, Nissan Micra will be available in three standard variants of XE (Entry), XL (Mid) and XV (Top). Available in two interior colour schemes: black and griege (only XV), the Nissan Micra will be introduced in a range of six colours; Sunlight Orange, Brick Red, Pacific Blue, Storm White, Blade Silver and Onyx Black. The Nissan Micra is priced competitively in its segment providing a complete package of features, performance, drivability and comfort. The ex-showroom Delhi prices for Nissan Micra are INR 3,98,000 for XE (entry), INR 4,69,500 for XL (mid) and INR 528,800 for XV (top) variants respectively.
Ranbir Kapoor - Brand Ambassador for Nissan India and Micra coming next month
Posted by Admin | 10:47 PM | Brand Ambassador, Hatchback, Nissan | 0 comments » Nissan Motor India Private Ltd going to launch its hatchback model Micra and announced the talented, young and rising Bollywood Actor, Ranbir Kapoor as its official Brand ambassador to represent the Nissan brand in India. The contract, which is for a period of three years, entails Ranbir to endorse the products and services of Nissan in India through promotion, advertising and marketing.
“We are delighted to have Ranbir Kapoor as our brand ambassador. Nissan is a car company with a “Passion for Cars”. Our brand heritage stands for producing cars that maximize life and provide the joy of everyday driving. Ranbir Kapoor is an extremely passionate, versatile and talented film star and he has shown his pedigree in a very short period. We believe Ranbir with his uber cool charm and mass appeal brings in a perfect connect with our brand.” said Mr. Kiminobu Tokuyama, MD & CEO, NMIPL.
“With the launch of the new Nissan Micra next month, Nissan will begin an exciting journey in India aiming to provide Indian customers with a full range of products and services. We are confident that Ranbir would act as a perfect catalyst to communicate our brand attributes and also enthrall the Indian customers bringing them alive through his persona and charm”, adds Mr. Tokuyama.
Says Abhijeet Pandit, Vice President - Operations, Hover Automotive India, “We are thrilled at the prospect of having Ranbir Kapoor as the brand ambassador of Nissan in India. Nissan, though a late entrant stands for spirit of innovation, design leadership and bold thinking. Our product range symbolizes the talent, creativity and dedication of people who work at Nissan. In a very short period, Ranbir has appealed across a cross-section of the audience and received both critical and commercial acclaim. He is bold, cool, easy-going, yet intelligent and hardworking amongst his peers. We believe there is a strong connect of Ranbir with our brand and we hope you would share our enthusiasm for our brand Ambassador.”
Speaking on the occasion, Ranbir Kapoor said, "It is an honour and privilege to be associated with Nissan, which is a leading global automotive brand. I have been a great admirer of Nissan cars during my days spent in Europe. Some of their cars like the GTR, 370Z, which has been introduced in India are all iconic products. I am happy to know that Nissan is very serious and commitment in their plans for India and they have an exciting range of products lined up beginning with the new Nissan Micra. The Micra is a class-defining product and I am particularly excited, as it has been designed for city driving. It boasts of many features that are first in its class. I am confident that this product will redefine mobility for many in India. I look forward to an exciting journey with them."
Nissan also announced the start of a multi-media campaign (print, digital, radio and TV) featuring Ranbir Kapoor starting June 10, 2010. The all New Nissan Micra is born out of the need of simplying city chaos. With a mix of convenience and high performance features, the Micra stands for simpler city driving and thereby better living. Ranbir as the smart and uber-cool urban dude will be seen in these commercials dispensing some advice on the art of city living with the Micra.
“The new Nissan Micra has created an unprecedented amount of euphoria and attention. We have been flooded with enquiries from the very beginning and we have received a very encouraging response on the confirmed bookings since we commenced the activity on May 25, 2010. We are confident and excited that with the onset of our multi-media campaign featuring Ranbir, there would be a far-reaching impact and greater awareness of our brand in the run-up to our launch,” adds Mr. Pandit.
Honda launches new variant and features with Civic
Posted by Admin | 3:35 AM | Honda, Sedan | 0 comments »Honda Siel Cars India Ltd launched new variant with Civic which has enhanced features further adding value to the model’s appeal. The new Civic SMT is now equipped with a steering mounted cruise control system that helps to cruise at the desired speed to ensure comfort and convenience for the customer with one-touch operation and ORVM turn indicators that makes it more stylish and enhances the looks of the car. Honda Civic VMT & VAT comes with back up sensors that enables the driver a smooth and hassle free reversing.
The Honda Civic comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti – Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake – Force Distribution System) & Brake Assist, Dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body (ACE) and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles.
The 1.8 L i-VTEC engine in the new Honda Civic is the most advanced engine technology available in the segment. It combines Honda’s i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology with VTC (Variable Time Control), delivering both powerful performance and superior fuel economy. The ARAI fuel efficiency results of 15.5 km/l for Civic MT reiterates its unmatched fuel economy.
The Honda Civic comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24-hr roadside assistance as standard value for all new Civic buyers.
Price of the Honda Civic (Ex showroom -Delhi)
Honda Civic 1.8 SMT: Rs.12.2 Lac
Honda Civic 1.8 VMT: Rs.13.07 Lac
Honda Civic 1.8 VAT: Rs.13.81 Lac
Toyota launched Innova Special Edition Variant priced at Rs 8.87 lakh
Posted by Admin | 10:58 PM | MPV, MUV, Toyota | 0 comments »The Special Edition variant has body colour bumper, euro III & euro IV, body colour grill & hood mould, power windows & power door lock, rear door body colour garnish, air conditioner & power steering, body graphics. The new variant will be also available in one colour - Premium Super White.
"The Innova has been highly appreciated by our customers, and has been the market leader in the MPV segment ever since its launch in 2005. We are focused on constantly upgrading our products based on customer feedback, and are now delighted to introduce the all new edition of the Innova which offers unique styling in combination with affordable features. Only 700 units of the Innova Special Edition will be available for sale, for a limited period." said, Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor on the launch of the 'Special Edition'.