McLaren Launches The Gorgeous 750S Twins In India

McLaren 750S debuts in India starting at INR 5.91CR
The McLaren 750S Spider starts at INR 6.58CR

McLaren Mumbai, India, launches their lightest and one of the most powerful series-production McLaren to date, McLaren 750S, in both the Coupe and Spider avatars. Weighing in at a mere 1389kgs, the 750S twins sport an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 587PS-per-tonne. Inspired by the 765LT and 720S, the 750S offers technical advances in weight saving with the carbon fibre and light but strong alloy structure used on the sassy curves, minimalist on the inside and mercilessly gorgeous on the outside. Packed with the latest technology inside out, the diver’s cockpit features an 8-inch infotainment system with CarPlay and Alcantara interiors. Ground clearance is typical supercar but with one vehicle lift button, the McLaren 750S twins can lift in 4 secs when roads get tough.

Sporting a 30kg lighter body than the 720S, the 750S gets a 20% larger adaptive active rear wing like the 765LT, yet is 1.6kg lighter than the 720S wing, thanks to material science. Engineered at McLaren Composite Technology Center in Yorkshire, UK, the new active rear wing adds aerodynamic enhancements with three prominent operational positions to improve downforce, reduce drag and improve performance on high-speed braking. Aiding the performance from the V8 powertrain is McLaren Control Launcher (MCL) technology, debuting on the 750S alongwith McLaren’s electro-hydraulic steering system, one of the most precise directional controls among performance cars.

At the heart of the matter is a 4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 750PS power, aptly adding to the car’s identity and a max torque output of 800Nm. Paired with a snappy 7-speed transmission, the 750S also debuts a revised kick-down control strategy for gearing. Further improving the dynamics of this car is McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control (PCC III) linked-hydraulic suspension system. With a 6mm wider front track and new suspension geometry, the 750S ensures stable performance on roads and tracks alike. With that beautiful engine, quick transmission, new chassis and suspension geometry and loads of technology jargon, the McLaren 750S Coupe can sprint from 0-100Km/h in 2.8S and 0-200km/h in 7.2S. The Spider can achieve 0-200km/h in 7.3S. The McLaren 750S Coupe and Spider are welcome additions to the gorgeous McLaren portfolio in India.

Shanghai Auto Show: The blaze of electric vehicles

The Shanghai Auto Show is underway in all its glory. Despite the pandemic, major automobile manufacturers worldwide showcased their latest and upcoming vehicles that feature some of the most cutting-edge technologies. Here are some of the best electric cars that stole the spotlight:

Audi A6 e-Tron:


German giant Audi is no stranger to electric vehicles and already has a sizeable array of EVs under its belt. It showcased the A6 e-Tron concept, built off of Audi’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE). It features a Sportback design and is equipped with 22-inch wheels. It is expected to be equipped with two electric motors that will deliver 350kW of power and 800Nm of torque.

Polestar 1 Special Edition:


Geely owned EV performance brand of Volvo Polestar displayed the Polestar 1 hybrid electric and the all-electric Polestar 2. There was also a 2021 Special Edition in matte gold that stole the spotlight. Its body is made of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer, and its engine is supplemented with two electric motors. The machine gives out 619hp of maximum power and 1000Nm of peak torque.

Volvo XC40 Recharge:


Planning on selling only battery-electric vehicles by 2030, Volvo took the next step towards that direction with the XC40 Recharge. Although the company did not reveal many details, it also confirmed that its following EV would be the C40.

Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQS:


Further solidifying its EQ lineup, German automaker Mercedes-Benz showcased the EQB and EQS EVs. The EQB is a compact eSUV that bears a striking resemblance to the GLB. It is expected to be equipped with rims up to 20 inches in size. The company is yet to reveal its powertrain details. The EQS, on the other hand, is a fully electric luxury sedan. It will be available in two models, including the EQS 450+ that gets a 329hp engine and the EQS 580 4MATIC with a 516hp engine.

Volkswagen ID.6:


VW’s next in line in the ID series is the ID.6 that will be available in two versions. The ID.6 CROZZ will be manufactured in North China, while the ID.6 X will be made in the south. It is expected to be a seven-seater and will be offered in four configurations.

 

Jaguar Land Rover India Debuts In EV Segment With The I-PACE

Jaguar Land Rover India has made its debut in the all-electric vehicle segment with the I-Pace. A 90 kWh battery powers the Jaguar I-Pace, which delivers 294 kW power and 696 Nm torque. This allows it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8s.
Rohit Suri, President and Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India Ltd. (JLRIL), said: Jaguar I-Pace is the first all-electric SUV that we’ve launched in India, and it marks the beginning of our electrification journey. With our electrified products, we look forward to playing a significant role in India’s electrification drive into the future. Jaguar I-Pace will appeal to people who purchase the latest technology and design to express their personalities and stay ahead of the curve.”

The I-Pace features the latest and more driver-focused technology and is the first Jaguar in India to offer Pivi Pro Infotainment System. The 31.24 cm (12.3-in) HD instrument cluster features completely revised graphics to give an even more precise indication of the battery’s state of charge.
It also gets a wireless device charging pad beneath the ‘floating’ centre console. Wireless charging also includes signal boosting, ensuring the phone’s signal remains vital for longer. Jaguar is also offering Smartphone Pack with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth technology, which can pair two phones simultaneously, ensuring you’ll always be connected.

The driver looks behind the car through a frameless glass mirror that houses a wide-angle, rear-facing camera linked to a high-resolution screen. The driver can switch seamlessly between the view from the standard mirror and the camera feed with a small toggle switch on the mirror. The electric SUV uses Software Over The Air (SOTA) functionality, enabling users to update systems, including infotainment, battery management and charging remotely. Utilising the vehicle’s built-in data connection, they can download the latest software automatically.Jaguar has equipped the I-Pace enhanced climate control system that independently delivers energy-efficient heating or cooling of up to four zones. When charging, customers can use the I-Pace’s pre-conditioning system (which optimises battery temperature) to purge the allergens and ultrafine particles in the cabin before beginning a journey.

Twenty-two retail outlets across 19 cities are now EV ready, with over 35 EV chargers installed and more underway. These chargers are a combination of 7.4 kW AC chargers and 25 kW DC (fast) chargers. Furthermore, to charge the I-Pace, customers may either use a Home Charging Cable provided as standard with the vehicle. Owners can also use a 7.4 kW AC wall-mounted charger, also supplied as standard.

Tata Power Ltd will overlook this charger’s installation at the customer’s house, and Jaguar Retailers will coordinate. Customers may also access Tata Power’s fast-expanding EZ Charge network of around 200 I-Pace compatible charging points. These can be used on use and pay basis. It will go on sale in India with an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.05 crore.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V launched – The ‘Most Powerful’ in its class

TVS Motor Company, a reputed manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers worldwide, introduced the 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycle today. The motorcycle continues to stay true to its racing pedigree by offering increased power and torque in line with its customers’ evolving needs, thereby ensuring the best performance and power of 17.63 PS – making it the ‘Most Powerful’ motorcycle in its class.
Speaking on occasion, Mr Meghashyam Dighole, Head – (Marketing) Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company, said, “Backed by 38 years of racing pedigree, the new 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers best-in-class performance with enhanced power to weight ratio and increased torque, offering our customers better-riding experiences along with advanced technologies. TVS Apache has always been committed to scaling higher benchmarks for customer satisfaction. We are confident that these enhancements will further strengthen the success story of our TVS Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycle.”

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycle gets an advanced engine 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine, that now churns out 17.63 PS at 9250 RPM and 14.73 Nm torque at 7250 RPM. The engine is mated to a 5-speed super-slick gearbox that offers an authentic and powerful riding experience. The motorcycle comes with an all-new dual tone seat with a carbon fibre pattern and LED headlamp with claw-styled position lamps adding to its overall premium appeal. Additionally, the motorcycle has become lighter with a two kg weight reduction, with the disc variant weighing 147kg and the drum variant weighing 145 kg.
The new TVS Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycle will be available in three colours: Racing Red, Knight Black and Metallic Blue. It will be available in two variants at the current price; Disc priced at ₹ 110,320 (ex-showroom Delhi) and the Drum priced at ₹ 107,270 (ex-showroom Delhi).

MINI launches in locally-produced Countryman in India

The new MINI Countryman was launched in India today. Locally-produced at BMW  Group Plant Chennai, the new MINI Countryman will be available in two petrol variants – MINI  Countryman Cooper S and MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired. Bookings and test drives are open at all MINI authorized dealers and the MINI Online Shop.
Mr Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India, said, “The new MINI Countryman inspires you to take the path to new experiences and new horizons of the mind. This versatile sports activity vehicle (SAV) is just like home to an urban jungle as it is to the great outdoors. Its adrenaline-pumping engine, elegant interior design features and latest technology blend harmoniously together. The new MINI Countryman guarantees exciting new experiences, whether on a planned holiday or a spontaneous getaway. We are pleased to launch the new MINI Countryman for the  first time with an all-in ‘Absolute Value’ offer for our customers that ensures a comprehensive  ownership experience.”
The ex-showroom prices of the two petrol engine variants are as follows:
MINI Countryman Cooper S: INR 39,50,000 MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired: INR 43,40,000
The new MINI Countryman adds a refreshed look with its inspiring design, new features and technology, making it a perfect companion for long journeys or city drives and comes for the first time with an all-in ‘Absolute Value’ offer. For a fixed EMI, customers can own the versatile new  MINI Countryman for a period of 3 or 4 years with a secure and comprehensive ownership package that includes Service Inclusive Plus, Repair Inclusive, MINI Secure, Assured Buy-back Value with MINI 360°, Loyalty / Trade-in offer as well as an attractive 20% discount on MINI  Accessories & Lifestyle. The all-in “Absolute Value” offer will be available on both variants of the new MINI Countryman until the end of June 2021. Further details on the offer are available at all MINI  authorized dealerships.
The new MINI Countryman introduces two new colour options – White Silver and Sage Green,  newly designed front and rear bumper, radiator grille, LED headlights and LED Rear Lights, now with Union Jack Design. The new 5.5-inch/13.97 cm Multifunction Full Digital Display, new  Leather Chester Upholstery in Malt Brown and Satellite Grey with matching colour line, MINI  Yours Interior Style Shaded Silver Illuminated interior surface trim, John Cooper Works  Aerodynamic Kit and 7- Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sports Transmission are exclusive to the new MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired.
The new MINI Countryman will be available in six striking colours, including Sage Green (new),  White Silver (new), Midnight Black, Chilli Red, Island Blue and British Racing Green.
The exterior of the new MINI Countryman expresses the vehicle’s versatility, agility and premium character. Its powerful proportions lend a particularly distinctive presence that combines iconic  MINI design language with enhanced functionality. Precise contours on the surface underline the car’s athletic shape and vertical orientation. Contrasting roofs, new LED headlights, LED rear lights in Union Jack Design, a new radiator grille, a new front and rear bumper and a 17-inch/43.18 cm  Imprint Spoke Wheel in the Cooper S variant add a fresh new look to the already captivating design. The roof-rails in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silver-coloured side sill tops,  thereby lending greater visual emphasis to the car’s height. The slightly asymmetrically rounded contour of the LED headlamp, together with the radiator grille, produces a distinctive front view. The John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit and 18 inches/ 45.72 cm John Cooper Works Thrill  Spoke Wheel in the Cooper S JCW Inspired variant with Runflat tyres add to the overall style quotient of the vehicle.
The exquisite interior style blends modern aesthetics and refined craftsmanship with practical functionality. The typical MINI cockpit impresses with its clear horizontal structure, stretched lines and generously sized surfaces. MINI Countryman Cooper S comes with Interior Surface  Piano Back with Leatherette Carbon Black Upholstery. Simultaneously, MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW  Inspired offers a new trim MINI Your Interior Style Shaded Silver with options of either Leather  Chester Malt Brown or Leather Chester Satellite Grey Upholstery. The colour lines are seen along the door panel, armrest surfaces and knee pads under the dashboard are now matched with the individual upholstery colours.
The MINI Excitement Pack features LED interior and ambient lighting, which illuminates the cockpit with a choice of selectable colours and a projection of the MINI logo from the exterior mirror on the driver’s side when opening and closing the car door.
John Cooper Works continues in the illuminated cockpit with the JCW Sports Leather  Steering Wheel. The car is equipped with premium features such as the Harman Kardon Hi-Fi  Speaker System, Panorama Glass Sunroof, and the MINI Wired Package, including the MINI Navigation System with Touch Controller Bluetooth mobile connectivity.
MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired introduces a new Multifunction Full Digital  Display that offers a clear view of speed, gear, fuel level, mileage, temperature and navigation instructions. The Head-Up Display further helps keep eyes on the road without missing essential details such as driving speed and navigation instructions. The iconic circular central instrument panel is surrounded by an LED ring offering a brilliant colour display of 8.8-inch/22.35  cm touchscreen (6.5-inch/16.51cm in the Cooper S variant). The controller complements the intuitive use of the middle console for easy multimedia, phone and car functions.  Wireless charging is also offered as standard in this variant.
The electric seat adjustment (with memory function for the driver) now offers enhanced head and shoulder space for both the driver and front passenger. The three full-fledged seats at the rear make for ample and comfortable seating for rear passengers. Using the cargo function, boot capacity can be increased from 450 litres to 1,390 litres by folding down the rear backrest with its 40:20:40 split. The new MINI Countryman can be parked in a scenic space, and you can enjoy the view with a unique Picnic Bench that folds out of the luggage compartment to provide seating space for two while protecting the clothing with a fender dirt protection flap. Automatic  Tailgate combined with the Comfort Access System allows the boot to be opened and closed just by waving the foot under the rear fender.

When it comes to power, the new MINI Countryman makes no compromises. It is powered by the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology, offering outstanding performance and efficiency. The 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo Technology puts the new MINI  Countryman high on fuel performance and light. It mobilises a peak output of 192 hp/141 kW at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 1,350 – 4,600 rpm. It sprints to  100 km/hr in 7.5 seconds, and the top speed is 225 km/hr.
The new 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Transmission in Cooper S and the 7-Speed Double  Clutch Steptronic Sports Transmission in Cooper S JCW Inspired offers even more efficient,  comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps. MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired features paddle shifters for an even sportier driving experience.
According to the driver’s preference, MINI Driving Modes enable an individualised vehicle set-up focusing on ride comfort, enhanced sportiness, and efficiency. In addition to the standard MID mode, there is a choice of SPORT and GREEN mode. Driver Assistance Systems include Cruise Control,  Park Assistant, Rear View Camera and Head-Up Display.
The new MINI Countryman is stacked with cutting-edge safety technology. Standard safety equipment comprises front passenger airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic  Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control Run-flat tyres as standard.
The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air flaps and electromechanical power steering.

BMW India launches the 3 Series Gran Limousine in India. 

BMW India has launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine in the country. Produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai exclusively for the Indian market, the car will be available in both petrol and diesel variants at all BMW India dealerships from today onwards. The long-wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ is a new addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It takes on the position of the longest, most spacious and comfortable car in its segment and sets a new benchmark in the class. It offers sportiness, comfort and innovation exclusively for the Indian market.

Mr Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The 3 Series is the soul of the BMW  brand and has won over millions of customers around the world. The ultimate sports sedan has now set the ultimate standard in luxury in a new form – the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine.  With its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance, the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine has a unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as the family. The Gran Limousine has been tailored with an innovative proposition that will  attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and  higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

The new Beamer blends the joy of driving and the outstanding comfort of an extremely spacious sedan. The grandeur rises many notches higher, thanks to a modern design with a larger, elongated body and bigger rear doors. Due to the extended wheelbase,  there is more room to unwind, more legroom for rear passengers and a pleasant seating experience even on long journeys. The powerful engine ensures a thrilling performance and acceleration. The long list of indulgence features, such as Panorama Glass Sunroof, Comfort  Seats in front, bespoke ‘Vernasca’ leather upholstery, luxurious rear seat, Parking Assist with  Reverse Assist, Ambient Lighting, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Wireless Charging adds to its appeal.

The Gran Limousine is available in two attractive design schemes – Luxury  Line and the exclusive M Sport ‘First Edition’ which is limited to the launch phase only. Luxury Line indulges movement in style and endows elegance. M Sport ‘First Edition’ bestows a  masculine character with distinguished M elements evoking the racing spirit. The additional features of M Sport ‘First Edition’ are BMW Heads-Up Display, BMW Gesture Control, Comfort  Access and Surround-view cameras with 360 view including top, panorama and 3D view.

The exterior body design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine blends the new,  extremely precise design language and sporting aura of the BMW 3 Series with distinctive proportions. The unique character in long-wheelbase guise stems from an extra 110  millimetres of wheelbase and the associated increase in seating comfort and legroom in the rear compartment. Encompassing an exterior length of 4,819 millimetres and a 2,961- millimetre wheelbase, the exterior dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine outstrip those of any other car in its class.

Creating a striking front look is a large BMW kidney grille with a single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment.
The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. The sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L-shaped  LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate grand cabin spaciousness. The rear doors are 110 millimetres longer than those of the BMW 3 Series sedan, allowing for an extra 43 millimetres of legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long-distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened/closed at the press of a button.

The M Sport ‘First Edition’ has Comfort Access which goes a step further and allows completely hands-free operation of the boot lid. The Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel in Luxury Line and M leather steering wheel in M Sport ‘First Edition’ with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster/control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. Three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 6.2 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 7.6 seconds.

The eight-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking functions. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver can choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions – ECO PRO,  Comfort, Sport and Sport+.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in the automotive industry. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes  3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25
inch Control Display. The occupants can operate several functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of many functions (available in  M Sport ‘First Edition’). The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay and  Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connections with the car to access several functions. The car has a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

The BMW Heads-Up Display in M Sport ‘First Edition’ projects driving-related information onto the windscreen and directly into the driver’s field of view. It employs full-colour graphics and provides a wealth of information to the driver without having to divert their eyes from the road. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier.
Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ features surround-view cameras with 360 view including top view, panorama view and 3D view.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in one diesel variant (BMW 320Ld Luxury  Line) and two petrol variants (BMW 330Li Luxury Line and BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’)  which are locally produced. The ex-showroom prices are –
BMW 330Li Luxury Line : INR 51,50,000
BMW 320Ld Luxury Line: INR 52,50,000
BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’: INR 53,90,000
The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in four exciting metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Melbourne Red, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. The choice of upholstery combinations includes Leather  Vernasca Cognac | Black and Oyster | Black.

Mercedes-Benz launches the 2021 GLC in India

Mercedes-Benz today launched the 2021 GLC in India with updates to connected car technology and better comfort and driving assistance. The ‘Mercedes me connect’ technology gets a host of additional feature enrichment. These feature enhancements in the 2021 GLC will help maintain its lead in the mid-size luxury SUV  segment and offer customers a compelling choice in the form of a fully loaded, connected luxury  SUV.

The 2021 GLC is available in both GLC 200 and GLC 220d variants and combines outstanding on and off-road driving characteristics with spaciousness, practicality and comfort. It is an illustration of excellent artisanship of high-quality materials, in combination with a classy and authentic design that attracts immediate attention. Targeted towards tech-savvy urban dwellers and adrenaline seekers, the GLC is one of the most suitable products for them. With 2021 GLC, Mercedes-Benz is introducing two new shades in the GLC colour palette. They are ‘Brilliant Blue’ and ‘High Tech Silver’.

Martin Schwenk, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “The GLC has remained a key pillar of our SUV offence and has been the single highest-selling SUV in our portfolio last year. With 2021 GLC, we now offer a technology superior, feature enriched fully loaded mid-size SUV, which has raised the benchmark for tech, comfort and convenience in the segment significantly. The new intuitive Mmc technology, MBUX Telematics with Hey  Mercedes and new features create a comfortable and best-in car experience. As a customer-centric brand, it remains our endeavour to constantly offer new products and technology that benefit the customers and create a delightful ownership experience. We are confident, with the  technology and feature enrichment, the GLC will continue its customer preference and extend  its lead in the premium mid-size SUV segment.”

Key feature and technology enrichments of the 2021 GLC:

All-digital Instrument Display:

The digital instrument display with a choice of styles like “Classic”, “Progressive” and “Sporty”  provides information, which is important to the driver. The 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) display delivers a pin-sharp image, which is very easy to read in all light conditions. In all styles, the instrument display is divided into different areas. In each case, the driver can adjust these individually to suit their requirements using the various settings options. In this way, they always have a  precise view of what is important to them while they are driving.

Front massage seats:

Introducing in its product portfolio, front massage seats make the journey all the more pleasant. Individually adjustable air chambers adjust just like a tailor-made suit. When you adjust the backrest bolsters so that they are particularly firm, it improves lateral support for sporty driving manoeuvres. The air chambers in the lumbar area can also alternately inflate and deflate, giving a massage with a pulsating effect. The massage functions are adjustable via the media display.

Parking Package with 360° camera:

Parking Assist with 360° camera makes it easier for the driver to manoeuvre effortlessly and park with precision. Thanks to the 360° camera the driver can have a view from every angle around the vehicle. The virtual bird’s-eye view is a smart way to show where the car stands. The combination of the reversing camera and three additional cameras provides the driver with all-round visibility: so you can see the surroundings in front of, alongside and behind your vehicle, on the media display.

Remote Engine Start

With the “Mercedes me” app on the phone, the customers can remotely start the engine, for air-conditioning before the start of their journey. Customers will also be able to track the location of the vehicle, remotely lock or unlock, remotely flash the headlamps, and use the horn to find it in the parking lot. Customers can also open or close windows and sunroof remotely from the app, set speed alerts for other users and enjoy a plethora of other connected services.

Featuring 2021 Mercedes me connect with Alexa, Google Home integration and Parking  location on navigation system

Any conversation with Alexa promises to be more fun as the systems connect with customers  Mercedes Benz via the cloud and provide a real-time update. This feature can be used from an Alexa Echo device set up at the home, office or also from phone’s Alexa App. Some examples that you can  command, “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to lock the car” or “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to start the engine.” Or  “Alexa, Ask Mercedes when is my service due?”

Google Home users can also use Google Home voice assistance with Mercedes me connect. Similarly, once the Mercedes me connect is linked to Google Home, you can start issuing  commands like “Hey Google, ask Mercedes where is my car” or “Ok Google, ask Mercedes to remind  me to buy flowers”

Another introduction is the new Parking solution POIs (Points of interest) across different parts of the cities. One can easily spot a parking lot with the help of the vehicle’s navigation system or even with the maps section on the Mercedes me App.

Ducati opens bookings for the Panigale V2 ahead of launch

Italian luxury motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has opened bookings for its first BS6 motorcycle, the Panigale V2, in India. An Italian-sporty blend with the perfect proportion of a classy-vibe, the brand-new Ducati Panigale V2 is another member added to the Ducati Panigale family. With extraordinary features, Ducati India is accepting bookings now since its announcement on 20th July, 2020 with an initial amount of INR 100,000. 

The visual design of the fairings is inspired by the Panigale V4 which makes it look like a ‘red-fiery-monster’ (if bought in the red color scheme), controllable with a better and comfortable seat. The other color scheme is the new White Red.  

The Panigale V2 features a single-sided aluminium swingarm: the hallmark of every high-end Ducati superbike along with a compacted twin-cylinder Superquadro engine (smaller in comparison to the Desmosedici Stradale). Along with this, the exhaust has been set under the engine and the frame is the same monocoque with everything bolted to the 90-degree V-twin.  

“The Panigale V2 has been the most awaited bike since EICMA and we eagerly waited to bring this ultimate superbike as our first BS6 motorcycle for the Indian motorcycle enthusiast. The new Panigale V2 is a beefy yet compact bike with clear-cut lines that convey power without compromising on the classic Ducati superbike flair. Considering the overwhelming inquiries for the launch of the Panigale V2, we are confident the bike will do well in the market by offering an unmatched Ducati riding experience to enthusiasts who’re looking to step into the world of riding on the racetrack and also to more experienced riders”, said Bipul Chandra, the Managing Director of Ducati India.

The Panigale V2 is similar to Panigale V4 in ways that it’s tangible, easy to ride. But Panigale V2 does not make you conscious about handling a lot of parts while riding it. The Panigale V2 is now the entry mode for the Panigale family, replacing Panigale 959. The members have often been described as ‘ferrari on to wheels’, making it an adventurous as well enjoyable ride. Racers have found the bike to be easy, predictable and friendly while learning the track layout.  

The V2 is a better and upgraded version of Panigale 959, with a better and responsive design enabling one to get locked on the bike while riding it. Racers seem to put a lot of energy while riding Panigale 959 whereas the Panigale V2 is easy-riding and also has electronics that work in ways that you’ll be amazed to hear about. The addition of six-axis IMU and the manifold of electronic rider aides gets filtered with different racing modes the bike has on the 4.5-inch TFT display.  

 This ultimate middleweight sports bike can be booked at their nearest dealerships which can be searched on their website. As soon as the bike is launched, they will be delivered and it will be available on display across all Ducati dealerships in Delhi – NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Considering the Covid-19 situation, the test rides will also begin shortly after the launch under the ‘Ducati Cares’ program by taking care of all the guidelines and safety measures.  

40 Years, Two Wheels, One Legacy: The BMW GS

The technological marvels~ BMW GS models are the reason everyone’s been buzzing about BMW Motorrad. The enterprise celebrates 40 years with these models since its first launch of R 80 G/S in the autumn of 1980. It was a legendary concept that brought a revolution in the industry of motorbikes and gave explorers a better chance to discover the world without setting a foot on the ground. Derived from the combined terms – Gelände/Straße (German for Off road/On road), the BMW GS motorcycle made even the most secluded parts of the world explorable on two wheels! 

According to the BMW Motorrad Corporate Communications, the BMW Motorrad is known to have sold 1.2 million BMW GS models. A huge number, isn’t it? These flawless and dynamic wonders on two wheels have proved themselves in every aspect including racing. Did you know that the French racing driver, ‘Hubert Auriol’ won the 1981 Paris-Dakar rally aboard the BMW R 80 G/S? The bike is not just assembled mechanical components; it’s an emotion. Its riding dynamics, off-road mastery, comfort and robustness are the major reasons why it has become a sensation in today’s world.  

The legacy of the BMW R 80 G/S was carried forward when the enterprise launched its successors in the following years. In 1993, the first-ever single-cylinder BMW F 650 ‘Fundoro’ was launched with different dynamics and boxer engines. BMW Motorrad also went to great lengths while launching the BMW R 1100 GS with a Four-valve technology and a tele lever. The product was equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for the first time. 

Riding these bikes tends to bring a unique sense of joy to the riders, with a promised sense of luxury and comfort. Another fascinating milestone was set when the F 650 GS and F 800 GS models were launched with the high-torque 2-cylinder in-line engine and torsionally stiff tubular frame. In 2010, BMW Motorrad paid tribute to GS models by painting the special models in Motorsport corporate colors. The whole industry took a huge leap with the release of light-weighted BMW G 650 GS, and stood out as an exceptional gem among its competitors.  

With ‘old being gold’ as always, the retro-themed R NineT models in 2013 had their moments. The models reflected the 1980 style along with modern technology in the most classic way. Also, in the year 2017, the F 750 GS and the F 850 GS were completely redesigned with the aim of providing more power to the engine. The BMW ShiftCam technology was used for the very first time in the autumn of 2018 with the aim of providing more power, reducing fuel consumption and emission values, making it a perfect ride to discover all the remote parts of the world on just two wheels.  

BMW claims that any novice or veteran can enjoy the rides specifying that the models released by their enterprise are the perfect blend of luxury, comfort and sustainable technology. So, what are you waiting for? With a further promise of providing high degrees of refinement, sportiness and luxury, the BMW Motorrad is set to celebrate its 40-year anniversary. The bikes are easily recognizable with the signature blue-white roundel icon on the gas tank! 

 

 

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