Ford India all set to ramp up its Chennai unit

Ford India MD and president Michael Boneham told that the fully-owned subsidiary of the US auto major Ford Motors, Ford India Motors will be one of the major production hubs for the parent company’s operations in the Asia-African region.

Ford India is all set to invest $500 million to ramp up its Chennai plant’s production capacity to 2-lakh vehicles by 2010.

The US-based Ford Motors, which has not taken any financial rescue from the US government like its peers GM and Chrysler, is developing China, Thailand and South Africa, as the other major manufacturing hub

Ford Figo showcased in India

Ford Motor showcased its compact car, Ford Figo, in India on Wednesday. However, this small car will be launched in India by early 2010. The compact car, Ford Figo, will be available in petrol and diesel versions.

This four-door hatchback will be manufactured in Ford Chennai plant. Apart from this, the company reveled about its exteriors but specific details about engine capacity, price and other data is under cover. Ford Figo is believed to compete with the Hyundai i20 and the Maruti Swift. The recent global trend is to switch over to small cars that are fuel efficient but Ford India's products present here in mid-sized cars and SUV class. The company is aiming to grab the most in small car segment in India and China.

Ford showcases small cars this week

US company, Ford is now eying on India to offset tough business conditions in other global markets. The company that survived the downturn without a government help, Ford Motor is planning to integrate car designs globally and develop compact and mid-sized cars as part of a strategy to improve profitability and productivity.

Ford has focussed on economies of scale and implementing ‘One Ford’ strategy across markets. Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Ford Motor, is also making a lightning visit to India to showcase its small car in the middle of this week. He joined Ford in 2006 after divesting brands like Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin.This moment will be exciting and worth watching. Ford India has not had a new product launch, but continues to upgrade its existing product line since 2005.

Ford India will launch its small car, code named B517 in March 2010, which is expected to compete with the Hyundai i20 and the Maruti Swift, that were also showcased to its dealers in Chennai recently. The small car will be a four-door hatchback, powered by an indigenous diesel and petrol engine manufactured at its Chennai plant. Ford India has invested around $500 million (Rs 2,400 crore) to double the current capacity by one lakh cars and 2.5 lakh engines, company officials said.

India to make Ford Figo

Ford Motor has plans to make India its manufacturing hub for its small car Ford Figo. Ford Figo will be launched in the first quarter of 2010 and come in both petrol and diesel variants. No prices have been officially announced by Ford India but the car is expected to cost at Rs.4 lakh and upwards for the base variant and will compete against an array of cars like Maruti Swift and Maruti Ritz, Fiat Grande Punto, Chevrolet U-VA and Hyundai i20 that are already present in the market.

After unveiling the Ford Figo in Delhi, Ford’s president and CEO, Alan Mulally said: “The global market is shifting towards smaller cars and India has a predominant advantage with a 70% market for compact cars." The company also has plans to export a significant number of the Ford Figo to Asia Pacific and African countries in 2010.

Special edition of Ford Fiesta launched

The best selling product of Ford, US auto manufacturer, Ford Fiesta now will be available with a couple of new features in India. The mid-sized sedan Ford Fiesta is having the price tag of Rs 6.44 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Nevertheless, the new Ford Fiesta 1.6 ZXI comes with petrol engine only. According to a company statement, the car saw impressive sales during the festival period in India.

Ford to increase market share by new car launches

Michael Boneham, president and MD of Ford India here on Thursday indicated that the US car maker, Ford has decided to launch a new car every 12 to 18 months in India to enhance its market share. However, he did not indicate what sort of market share the company aims to achieven the long run. Talking to newsmen at the inauguration of Ford’s new dealership, Victoria Ford, Mr. Boneham said: "We now have a marketshare of nearly 2% and we want to grow it significantly in coming years. Launching of new cars from the Ford stable, will play a crucial role in growing our market share in India."

For 2009, Ford India aims to achieve sales of 30,000 cars compared to 29,000 cars sold in calendar 2008. "In September ‘09, we have been able to sell 3,500 cars which is a 50% increase year-on-year basis," said Nigel Wark, executive director (marketing, sales and services). By investing $500 million, company will expand production at its Chennai plant from 1 lakh to 2 lakh vehicles, apart from producing 2.5 lakh engines, both in petrol and diesel.

Ford launches another variant of Ford Ikon

US based car manufacturer Ford has introduced a new variant of its popular entry level sedan Ford Ikon in India. The new variant has been launched on the basis of the responses the company has witnessed from the users of Ikon iKool. The new Ford Ikon model has been priced in the range of Rs 5.17-5.77 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi). The New Ford Ikon Plus model will be available in both Diesel and petrol versions. The price difference between the previous Ford Ikon and the new Ford Ikon Plus is about Rs 33,800. The new model has been launched with stylish exteriors as well as modified interiors.

Ford plans to launch series of small cars in Asia

Ford Motor,the second largest car maker in Detroit, is all set to push its sales in Asia,particularly in China through introduction of a family of new small cars which will the focus of the company's product profile.In its pursuit towards small cars.Ford displayed a new version of Focus,its top most selling car in Detroit this week According to Alan Mully,Ford's chief executive,the company's strategy would be to move quickly to invest in one of the fastest growing economy China.The company is now converging on manufacturing a series of small and mid sized cars built on the platform,"One Ford" strategy something that is followed by the company on a global basis. The fundamental structure of the revamped Ford Fiesta will be common around the world except for the changes that will be required at the top of the car to meet with the local standards,rules and regulations.Around 10 models will be manufactured using the new platform,resulting in the production of 2m units annually by the year 2012.

Ford to launch next version of Explorer SUV

US based automobile manufacturer Ford Motors has announced that it will invest $400 million in its production facilities to manufacturer next version of, its Explorer SUV by the end of year 2010. According to company this move is expected to create 1,200 jobs at its Chicago assembly plant. The USD 400 million includes the investment of USD 180 million in manufacturing facilities at the Chicago sites and investment of about USD 220 million for launch and engineering costs.

Hyundai i20 diesel stylish new model

Hyundai i20 diesel model will be launched in India in just few days. Interiors of the i20 are almost same as the previous Hyundai i20 petrol model but this time the whole gear system is same as the Hyundai Verna model. What makes the Hyundai i20 diesel different from the other models is its smooth driving experience and its silent engine.

Besides this the Hyundai i20 diesel model has a good mileage as the company is claiming. Good pick up ,attractive dashboard and comfortable seating are its other good features.

Hyundai i20 1.4 Asta AT (O) with Sunroof Price Rs 772,609*

Hyundai i20 1.4 Asta AT (O) with Sunroof Price Rs 772,609*

Hyundai i20 Price Rs 480,508* - Rs 772,609*

In the hatchback category of cars Hyundai i20 is a new generation car with large headlamps and fog lamps. This new Hyundai i20 is even more spacious, stylish having amazing eye catching features. Equipped with standard safety features it has ABS, seat belts with pre-tensioner, dual air-bags for the driver and front passanger, auto-unlocking doors Hyundai i20 is one of the best car. Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) and suspension systems in the car are such that they provide maximum ease while driving the vehicle. This latest version of Hyundai i20 is best featured with many important special equipments that co-ordinates best with the activity of the diver.

Hyundai i20 Price Rs 480,508* - Rs 772,609*

Mazda - Furai

Chevrolet - Silverado ZR2 Concept

Plymouth - Satellite 1971

Peugout - Sr1 Concept

Kia KCV 4 Pick Up

Suzuki - Hayabusa

Tata Indica

Tata Indica V2 Xeta GL 265,968 15.3

Tata Indica V2 Xeta GLE 293,397 15.3

Tata Indica V2 Xeta Description :

Indica Xeta, Its eXtra Efficiency Torque Advantage petrol engine delivers 12.4 kgm torque, for a smoother and more responsive drive. With instant pick up and fewer gear changes in stop-start city traffic. The technologically superior MPFI engine comeswith a 32-bit microprocessor, and sports 12 sensors, including a knock control sensor to reduce damage from adulterated fuel, Even more enjoyable long drives, with a frugal fuel consumption at 14 kmpl. Its spacious cabin - the biggest in its class, seats three people comfortably in the rear, with ample elbow room and generous leg room. The luxurious beige interiors come as a standard feature. Tata Indica V2 Xeta is the latest model from Tata Motors. Equipped with 475 SI Multi Point Fuel Injection System with 32-bit microprocessor

Hyundai Santro Xing XK

Hyundai Santro Xing XK (Non-AC)263,999 17.8
Providing good power efficiency, reliability and long life to the vehicle and delivering the same to its customers is a pre-requisite for Hyundai Motors. Active intelligence technology delivers good mileage and power. Suspension with stabilizers help in providing better control on the road

Maruti Eeco

Maruti Eeco
Add to Compare

Maruti Eeco 5 Seater Standard 258,999 15.1

Maruti Eeco 7 Seater Standard 275,000 15.1

Maruti Eeco 5 Seater AC 288,999 15.1

Maruti Alto

Maruti Alto
Add to CompareMaruti Alto Std 224,214 18.9

Maruti Alto LX 255,018 18.9

Maruti Alto LX 272,202 18.9

Maruti Omni

Maruti Omni
Add to Compare

Maruti Omni LPG CARGO BSIII W/ IMMOBILISER 189,969 19.7

Maruti Omni MPI CARGO BSIII W/ IMMOBILISER 194,673 19.7

Maruti Omni MPI STD BSIII 5-STR W/ IMMOBILISER 212,779 19.7

Maruti Omni MPI STD BSIII 8-STR W/ IMMOBILISER 214,409 19.7

Maruti Omni LPG STD BSIII 5-STR W/ IMMOBILISER 223,659 19.7

Maruti 800

Maruti 800
Add to Compare

Price Rs. Mileage

Maruti 800 Std BSIII 185,094 22.1

Maruti 800 Std. LPG 199,408 16.4

Maruti 800 AC BSIII 204,651 19.9

Maruti 800 Uniq 209,614 14.0

Maruti 800 AC LPG 218,965 16.6

Tata Nano

Tata Nano Std BSII 115,361 26.0

Tata Nano Std BSIII 123,361 26.0

Tata Nano Cx BSII1 40,361 26.0

Tata Nano Cx BSIII 148,361 26.0

Tata Nano Lx BSIII 172,361 26.0

The world’s cheapest and the most anticipated car Tata Nano has been launched in Indian market. Tata Motors launched Tata Nano on 23rd March while its booking started from the second week of April 2009.

Hyundai H1 launched at Auto Expo

Hyundai unveiled Hyundai H1 at Auto Expo today at Pragati Maidan.The car will be available as a nine seater in India whereas the 12 seater model is available in the International Market. Hyundai H1 will be available to its users in both petrol and diesel engines. The petrol variant is powered by 2.4L, 2359 cc engine and delivers power of 128.4 KW at 5500 rpm, 227.7 Nm torque at 2800 rpm. The diesel variant is powered by 2.5 L ,2359 cc engine, powered by 125 KW at 3800 rpm, torque of 392 nm at 2000 rpm.

Hyundai H1 Wagon model that lies somewhere between a van and a mini bus is available with both 5 speed manual and auto transmission option. The front suspension of the car is a McPherson Struts with wishbone while the rear suspension is a Rigid Hexal Spring.

Hyundai i Mode and Genesis Coupe launched

Hyundai launched Hyundai i Mode at Delhi Auto Expo. Hyundai i Mode is a six seater based on the concept of a mono cab. It features high end entertainment facilities in the comfort of your car such as Digital Home theater, wireless internet for users to browse while they cruise ! The car is powered by Euro 6, 2.2 L, turbo Diesel engine an boasts of hi tech seats that dont just glide forward and back but can revolve too.

Hyundai launches 4 models

Shah-Rukh Khan participates in Hyundai's Green move by unveiling the Hyundai i10 Electric Version today at the Delhi Auto expo. Hyundai Motors, the Korean car-maker also launched Hyundai H1, Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Hyundai imode on the Second day of 10th Auto Expo. With Hyundai Motors flagship model Hyundai i10 topping the sales charts in present scenario, Hyundai i10 electric would carry on the legacy.

With increasing Demand of cleaner, cheaper Automotive fuel across nations, Hyundai Motors launch of Hyundai i10 electric compensates the need well. However, Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) Director (Marketing and Sales) Arvind Saxena commented that the exact time-frame of vehicle's availability in India could not be commented on presently.

Maruti Suzuki Alto launched

Maruti launched new limited edition of Maruti Alto. This new car, Alto Xcite, is priced at Rs 13,500 more than the regular version. This car houses a number of great features such as manual central locking, power windows and remote boot opener. The company said in a statement that the high-end model of the car is priced at Rs 2.75 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Approximately 20,000 car units are being sold every month. It may be recalled that Maruti Alto is the largest selling car in India. On the other hand, Ford Fiesta and Hyundai i10 are the other popular cars in India.

Nissan to bring Murano in India by 2010

Nissan one of the largest car manufacturer originated in Japan is all set to bring its latest sensation in Auto market around the word, the Nissan Murano in India. The Nissan Murano model is basically a newly designed and only one of its kind crossover which is claimed to be a new mile stone for Nissan in Auto engineering field. Though there was news about its launch in this year only but now it is expected that the Nissan Murano model will be rolled out in the first half of the next yeas. According to the news reports the Nissan Murano model will be imported in India as a completely built unit (CBU) from Japan.

Hydrogen powered Suzuki SX4 at the Tokyo Auto Show

Suzuki that is all set to unveil hydrogen powered new Suzuki SX4 at the Tokyo Auto show later this month. Apart from hydrogen powered Maruti SX4 Suzuki will also launch plug-in hybrid version of its model Maruti Swift.

The Maruti Swift model will be able to cover at least 19 kms under all-electric power. The Maruti SX4 fuel cell concept of Maruti SX4 - FCV will use 80kW hydrogen fuel cells provided by General Motors but will also employ a hydrogen tank and capacitor from Suzuki engineering.

Bajaj-Renault-Nissan alliance to launch ultra low cost car by 2012

Car Manufacturers Bajaj, Nissan and Renault will introduce a joint venture ultra-low cost car in India by year 2012. According to Renault, France based company, the car will be smaller than the existing Maruti Alto. In this joint venture Bajaj Auto will be handling manufacturing, sourcing, engineering and designing work while on the other hand Renault-Nissan alliance will be taking care of marketing and selling of the car in domestic as well as international market.

Nissan to launch 370Z sports in India

Japan based car manufacturer Nissan Motor has decided to launch its all new Sports sedan, 370Z in India on 20th January this year. By launching 370Z in India the company will enter in the league of sports sedan selling companies in India which includes Audi(which rolled out its R8) and BMW (will be launching Z4 roadster soon). The Nissan 370Z model is known as the Fairlady Z in Japan. The 370Z has a powerful 7-speed automatic 6-speed manual transmission engine despite the light weight accessories like aluminum door panels, hood and hatch the 370Z weighs around 3000lbs. The 370Z is sixth-generation of the Nissan Z-car series with a 3,696 cc V6 engine that outputs 336 PS@7000rpm and 365 Nm@5200. The model was first shown at an event in Los Angeles before its official launch at the Greater LA Auto Show 200

Auto Expo - Honda unveils New Small Car

Honda Siel cars India today unveiled the Honda New Small car concept in a press conference at 10th Auto Expo 2010. The Honda New Small Concept is a concept model of the upcoming Honda Small car in India to which Honda Motors is especially developing for emerging markets like India. In addition to the New Small Car Concept Honda is also exhibiting the CR-Z Concept 2009, a concept model for a new hybrid model, which was unveiled for the first time at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2009.

Ford Ikon scores highest in the entry mid-size segment

Ford's entry-level sedan the Ford Ikon scored highest in the entry mid-size segment according to the JD Power Asia Pacific 2009 India Initial Quality Study SM (IQS). Ford Ikon is the clear winner in its segment scoring 90 PP100 in this J.D. Power study while the industry scores averaging at 123 PP 100 in the entry mid-size segment for Overall New -Vehicle Quality in India.

Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India, commenting on this commendable achievement told that the results speak for itself. It’s about a quantum leap in quality that companies vehicles demonstrate and their laser-focus and commitment to produce world-class quality vehicles for this market that exceed customer expectations.

Honda Pavilion in Auto Expo

Honda Motors Pavilion in Hall No. 06 and stall no. 6.1 dazzled with some amazing launches and breathtaking displays. Apart from the stupendous Cars at the display, a factor that caught everyone's eye was Azimo (Advanced step in innovative mobility), a humanoid robot.

The Robot delighted the audiences with its brilliance and entertaining performances like dancing on a bollywood number “All is Well”, playing with the football, making cute gestures towards the audience etc. Shining cars were displayed on rotating dais, with ravishing models posing with the same. Top-Honda officials were seen greeting those present there. A well-managed reception at the entrance of the pavilion helped all those gathered with information on various products of Honda Motors distributing brochures, pamphlets etc. The pavilion was chocked with enthusiastic crowd and energetic media.