Category: Auto-Features

Explore The Future Of Cities With Hyundai!

Nature has always inspired technology, and there is no denying that all our advancements are shameless mimics of Natural aspects. Nevertheless, “imitation is the best form of flattery,” and copying Nature is all too beneficial for humanity. To achieve a balance between technological advancements and our innate connection to nature, many automobile manufacturers worldwide are researching ways to blend natural processes with technology. Among them is Hyundai Motor Group, which recently announced a research collaboration Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). It explores new relationships between advanced technologies, public environments and personal experiences. 

These interactions are defined as “adaptive ecologies”: the technological interfaces that exist between beings (such as living organisms and machines) and their surroundings (the vast spatial and material structures of nature). The joint study examines how artists and designers can use technology to build connections and shared experiences, covering topics ranging from community design and biomimicry, cellular life and biosensing to natural resource systems and infrastructures. Through RISD’s Research & Strategic Partnerships program, the partnership with Hyundai elevates the expertise of faculty and the experimental creativity of students to conceive of future realities.

“This collaboration aligns with Hyundai Motor Group’s vision of becoming a future-shaping innovator via open innovation. Last year, we collaborated with RISD to apply the school’s biomimicry solutions to the question of future mobility, and this year, we expanded our scope to the future city and pursued Group-wide collaboration with the participation of both Hyundai Motor and Kia’s global design centers. Our plan is to explore solutions developed from the outcomes of this partnership and apply them to tangible opportunities such as innovative vehicle design and smart city development,” said Dr Youngcho Chi, President and Chief Innovation Officer of Hyundai Motor Group.

This joint research project builds upon the new collaborative research platform created by RISD solely for Hyundai in 2020. In this second year of partnership, five faculty members at the world-renowned design school leveraged their expertise to explore study areas supported by 32 students. Students were selected through a highly competitive process involving 16 departments at RISD. The ten departments ultimately represented in the cohort include Architecture, Global Arts and Cultures, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture, Jewelry + Metalsmithing, Liberal Arts, Painting and Textiles. This year, a Hyundai task force created to support the students’ research included Hyundai Motor and Kia’s global design centres.

“Studying sustainability and taking responsibility for future generations is now a universal task. To keep a fundamentally new approach from the ground up through the Collaborative Research with RISD, the process of studying nature adapting and surviving changes allows us to draw a new optimal blueprint for our future,” said Mr Sangyup Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai & Genesis Global Design Center.

“Cooperating and working with the brilliant staff and students at RISD is not only a mutual inspiration. We hope it can be the beginning of a new way of looking at design in general and integrating the lessons learned from nature in our industrial processes,” said Mr Karim A. Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center.

Offering different perspectives and technological tools, four distinct areas of “adaptive ecologies” were examined: surfaces, societies, futures and textile research.

Adaptive Ecologies: Bio-Interactive Surfaces

Faculty lead: Katia Zolotovsky, Digital + Media 

This group examined the applications of programmable living cell technology and biosensing. Designs include interactive surfaces to facilitate communication between humans and their surroundings for a healthier and sustainable future. Researchers experimented with various material systems to host biochemical interactions, such as microfluidics, biomaterials and fabrics—interactive surfaces range from responsive textiles to urban displays.  

Adaptive Ecologies: Technologies, Natures, Societies 

Faculty leads Soojung Ham, Industrial Design and Ryan McCaffery, Architecture.

In studying the reciprocal relationships between natural ecosystems and the infrastructures of our built environments, this group worked with models and scenario-based planning, examining how designs can transform these technologically mediated environments into new experiences and forms of social value.

Adaptive Ecologies: Envisioning Futures

Faculty lead: Rafael Attias, Illustration

This group explored how to visualise complex information by developing multidimensional concepts, exploring new modes for narrative through simulation, crossover experimentation, collaborative processes and connective environments. Student researchers used the visual expression, interactive media, sound, animation and spatial concepts.

Adaptive Ecologies: Fabric Connections

Faculty lead: Joy Ko, Textiles

This study is a personal, critical exploration of the interactions between information technology and aspects of everyday life: our bodies, the textiles in which we envelop ourselves, communities in physical and networked mediated space. This group looked at analysing and understanding human behaviour through tracking, sensing and mapping tools to guide the generation of “fabric” in its broadest sense ranging from textiles that empower personal data to community design in virtual reality.

At RISD’s Edna W. Lawrence Nature Lab, staff worked with Hyundai and RISD faculty and students on design topics, including biomimicry, biomaterials, and biosystems applications. Additional support in research activities came from Co-Works, RISD’s interdisciplinary research lab focused on emerging technologies.

This summer, 18 researchers who have previously participated in the Hyundai Research Collaborative will spend eight weeks of intensive, continued activity on expanding Future of Cities research from spring 2021 through collaboration with the design team at Hyundai Motor and Kia. An exhibition is tentatively planned for fall 2021 to share the results of these collaborations.

Land Rover Defender 90 In India: All You Should Know!

Today, Jaguar Land Rover India announced that following a successful Defender 110, Defender 90 is now available in India. The Defender 90 is available in three powertrain options. These include a 2.0 l petrol delivering 296 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque, a 3.0 l petrol producing 394 bhp and torque of 550 Nm and a 3.0 l diesel delivering 296 kW and 650 Nm.

Rohit Suri, President and Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India, said, “Demand for Defender 110 continues to be strong and introduction of Defender 90 will further enhance the appeal of Defender and the Land Rover brand. We are extremely excited to introduce the epitome of iconic Land Rover design, the Defender 90. It is the toughest and most capable Land Rover ever made and provides new age connectivity with unstoppable off-road performance.”

The Defender 90 offers six-seat practicality thanks to the innovative front central jump seat. It embraces 21st-century technologies and features Land Rover’s Pivi infotainment system with an intuitive interface and backup battery for always-on responses. Advanced software-over-the-air updates also ensure customers benefit from the latest software at all times, wherever they are in the world.

Configurable Terrain Response allows drivers to fine-tune the vehicle’s set-up to suit the precise off-road conditions like never before. The Terrain Response 2 system also includes a new Wade programme to provide the ultimate reassurance when driving through water by optimizing all vehicle systems accordingly.

The Defender 90 is available in several models, including Defender, X-Dynamic and Defender X. Furthermore, Defender and X-Dynamic will come with S, SE and HSE Specification Packs.

Customers will be able to personalize their vehicle in more ways than any previous Land Rover with four Accessory Packs. These include the Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban Packs, giving each Defender a distinct character with a specially selected range of enhancements. Prices of the Defender 90 start from Rs 76.57 lakh, ex-showroom in India.

BMW GS 1250 twins: What’s new and what has changed?

BMW Motorrad recently launched the updated 1250 GS twins in India. Along with aesthetic updates, the off-roaders also get a host of electronic and mechanical updates. Here are some of the most interesting ones:

  1. The new BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure get light white solid paint and ice grey solid colour in their respective basic colour versions.
  2. The optional Style Triple Black enhances the two motorcycles with the Blackstorm metallic/black / agate grey colour combination. 
  3. The limited ‘40 Years GS’ edition scheme is dedicated to the ‘40 Years GS’ anniversary. It honours the iconic BMW R 100 GS and comes in black and yellow. 
  4. New lighting functions, cruising light, and function-integrated turn indicator bulbs are available as optional equipment.

  5. Both models feature the powerful 1254cc, twin-cylinder in-line Boxer engine, producing 136 bhp with a maximum torque of 143 Nm.
  6. The variable camshaft control BMW ShiftCam is a new technology that increases power across the entire engine speed range.
  7. It also offers reduced emission and fuel consumption levels, optimised running smoothness and refinement.
  8. The standard Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) ensures the best possible traction.

  9. The set-off assistant Hill Start Control Pro (HSC Pro) is a standard feature in both models and noticeably improves the starting function in all conditions.
  10. Comfort features now include heated grips, two power sockets as standard for charging smartphones and other compatible devices. 
  11. A 12-volts onboard socket is installed under the rider’s seat. A USB-A socket with a 5-volt power supply is also available for quick charging. 
  12. Both motorcycles are equipped with a 6.5-inch full-colour TFT display. Integrating operation via the BMW Motorrad multi-controller gives the rider quick access to vehicle and connectivity functions.

  13. Riders can use phone and media functions without having to install an app.
  14. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected app offers everyday-suitable and practice-oriented arrow navigation directly via the TFT display.
  15. The new BMW R 1250 GS and the new BMW R 1250 GS Adventure will be available as Completely Built-up Units (CBU) and can be booked at BMW Motorrad dealerships with a base price of Rs 20.45 lakhs (ex-showroom)

Benelli Motorcycles: From Shoguns To Shotguns

Benelli motorcycles might not be as famous or as appealing as Ducatis or MV Agustas of the world, but they nevertheless have a concrete and rich history. What began as a small garage opened by a grieving widow has bloomed into one of the most prolific motorcycle manufacturers worldwide. If you have wondered how Benelli motorcycles came to being, here is how it all started:

  • Beginning

Teresa Benelli was a widow and mother of six sons who hoped to provide her sons with a secure job and a stable income source. To that extent, she used all of the family’s capital to start the Benelli Garage in 1911, which repaired cars and motorcycles. It soon morphed into producing the spare parts that motorcyclists needed.

By 1920, Benelli had built its first in-house engine that was a single-cylinder two-stroke 75cc model. It fitted well in a bicycle frame which went on to become the basis of its motorcycles. The company soon upgraded to 98cc engines that powered Benelli’s first motorcycles. In December 1921, the first real Benelli motorcycle appeared: the “Velomotore” presented in two models, Touring and Sport (125cc). It was followed in 1923 by a bigger 147cc motor.

  • A legacy of racing

The youngest scion of the Benelli family proved to be the most radical when Antonio Benelli began his racing career. Known popularly as Tonino, Benelli was a natural racer and proved it repeatedly by winning Italian championships in 1927, 1928, 1930 and 1931.

This turned the spotlight on the Italian brand, and it became a full-fledged motorcycle manufacturing company. Owing to Tonino’s success, Benelli’s production increased, and its sales success led to the enlargement of the factory. In 1932, the Benelli brothers bought the pavilions of the sawmill Molaroni in ‘viale Principe Amedeo’, which is now ‘viale Mameli’.

  • A worldwide hurdle

Benelli’s journey to success was cut short by the inception of World War 2. The global conflict saw Benelli’s factory wholly destroyed. However, it could not destroy the passion the Benelli brothers had for motorcycles. Even during the war, the company upheld its spirit. Ted Mellors won the Tourist Trophy in 1939, riding a Benelli motorcycle. After the end of the war, they rebuilt their business, and in 1947, the company hired the motorcycle racer, Dario Ambrosini. The sports success of the new Benelli culminated in 1950 in Ambrosini’ victory of the World Championship in the 250 class.

  • Dawn of a new age

At the end of the ’40s, Giuseppe Benelli, due to irreconcilable disagreements with his brothers, left the company. It was the beginning of Motobi, with the classic two and 4-stroke egg-shaped engine of small and medium displacement. A new sales and sports success: more than 1000 racing victories in the ’50s and ’60s.

Benelli’s manufacturing continued in 1951 with the presentation of the ‘Leoncino’ whose great commercial success was at its peak when Benelli won the first ‘Motogiro d’Italia’ in 1953 with the racer Tartarini.

In 1961 the company of Pesaro celebrated its first 50 years, and the following year, to tackle the crisis of the motorcycle industry, the two brands Benelli and Motobi, were merged into one. This was the heroic time of Provini e Pasolini, of the 4-cylinder 250cc and the second world title in 1969 with the Australian racer Kelvin Carruthers.

  • Journey to the future

As the Japanese became increasingly fierce and technically advanced, the decline of the company soon became inevitable. In 1989, Benelli was saved from obliteration by industrial tycoon Mr Giancarlo Selci, owner of the Biesse group. It seemed that a new time had begun, but after the first moments of euphoria, the prospects became uncertain again.

In 1995, the Merloni Group of Fabriano purchased the majority stake of the historical brand. Andrea Merloni, the son of Vittorio, was the new company leader, and the fresh start arrived with the aggressive scooter 491. New ambitious projects, scooters and even sports bikes: the Tornado 900cc three-cylinder will also compete in the Superbike championship and the TnT 1130cc. But Benelli had soon to face a new crisis again.

In December 2005, Benelli became part of the group Q.J. It is a Chinese conglomerate spanning multiple models, segments and even manufacturers. Since then, Benelli has been somewhat underwhelming but a steady contributor to the market nonetheless.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC: Exclusive Luxury Arrives In India

Mercedes-Benz, the country’s largest luxury carmaker recently broke into the ultra-luxurious SUV segment with the introduction of the first-ever SUV in its Maybach range of vehicles. The pinnacle in refinement and comfort, Mercedes-Maybach represents ‘Ultimate Luxury’ in its most contemporary, purest form. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC sets a new benchmark in India’s luxury SUV segment and is unmatched with its exquisite offerings.   

Apart from being the first Maybach SUV, the GLS Maybach 600 will only be the second Maybach model rolled out in the Indian market, following the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.

Launching this ultra-luxury SUV in India, Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, commented, “We are excited to introduce the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC to India. The Maybach brand represents the pinnacle of luxury and this SUV will elevate customer experience to an unmatched level. It blends classic old-world charm and supreme comfort with the most cutting-edge technology to redefine the luxury experience on wheels. Luxury motoring with an SUV in India is reimagined with the introduction of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC. We are now glad to hand over these SUVs to discerning customers who have expressed exceptionally high interest in this fine model that rewrites expectations in the luxury SUV segment.” 

 “We have witnessed a strong demand for our products as we see the hope and aspiration of our customers remain unbroken. With this positivity, we look at restarting and ramping up our business in phases, in sync with the unlocking of different markets. Our 2021 product strategy remains on track and we expect further uptick in demand, especially for top-end products. The market outlook also remains positive at this point and we continue to stay optimistic. Our customers can expect more product introductions across segments in the coming months.” Mr Schwenk added.

Lamborghini Countach: The Charming Viscount

Lamborghini’s journey over the last half-century has been nothing less than legendary. Lamborghini has produced some genuinely gorgeous masterpieces, from being taunted by a pride-filled Modenan for the lack of knowledge of luxury cars to being one of the best luxury carmakers in the world. Although its first model was the 350 GT, the Countach propelled Lamborghini into its current star status. The distinctively contemporary lines of the Lamborghini Countach, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, shaped the design of all subsequent Lamborghinis even up to today’s models, including the Aventador, Huracán, Sián, as well as the Urus.

 

 

Lamborghini Design DNA

It made its first public appearance on March 11, 1971, at the Geneva Motor Show. Draped in yellow, The Countach project was unveiled in Carrozzeria Bertone’s space. The Lamborghini stand also featured the Miura SV, while the Countach had the internal code number LP112. LP stands for the rear longitudinal position (“Longitudinale Posteriore” in Italian) of the 12-cylinder engine, which stemmed from Ferruccio Lamborghini’s desire to maintain the image of a company at the forefront of style and technology following the Miura.

“There are works of art that always remain relevant, and the form of the Countach is one of them.” These are the words that Mitja Borkert, Head of Design at Lamborghini, uses to describe the style of this automotive icon. “Its design,” adds Borkert, “is comprised of perfect proportions, characterized by a very pure and essential approach. Its distinctive feature is the single longitudinal line that visually connects the front and rear parts. From a stylistic point of view, it’s a perfect inspiration because, even when the rest is modified, the line is an element of visual continuity between past and present. It’s the epitome of the DNA in all Lamborghini design, the tradition of the stylistic language from the origins to the present day.”

Mitja Borkert – Head of Design Lamborghini

Low and wide, the front view of the Countach is characterised by diagonal lines on the hood, which are also repeated on the engine compartment, making it immediately recognisable even from a distance. The shape of the passenger compartment, low and squared, combined with the typical slope of the windscreen, influenced the design of the various models that have followed the Countach. It is precisely these shapes that have remained unchanged over the years, along with the particular and characteristic cut of the side windows, which make a Lamborghini easily identifiable at first glance. 

The Countach LP400

The Countach introduced a futuristic style ahead of its time during the 1970s, an era of explosive creativity and one of the most significant moments for design. These were years of critical social achievements reflected in significant changes that would inspire designers and creatives worldwide. The space race; the advent of high tech with the development of modern computers; the trends in fashion linked to geometric patterns, extravagant choices, and the explosion of bright colours; the advent of individualism and the Jet Age; are all elements that influenced the stylistic choices of the Countach’s designer, Marcello Gandini. The Countach is also due to the vision of Ferruccio Lamborghini, who believed right from the start in the revolutionary project that today is still influencing the style of future Lamborghini models.

 

Riding tips that save lives! In conversation with Rajeev Kapoor

Riding a two-wheeler is a considerably different experience than driving a car. Along with complete exposure to the natural elements, a biker is also subjected to a lot more risks and dangers than the occupants of a vehicle. While a two-wheeler might seem pretty mainstream, following these tips can indeed extend your lifespan and decrease the chances of accidents considerably!

Although this has been repeatedly emphasised for ages, helmets are surprisingly still overlooked when riding. Helmets help protect the rider in an accident, but they also improve the riding experience. The visor present on a good helmet eliminates any air, dust or other small particles from entering the eyes, thus letting the rider see clearer and farther than while riding without a helmet.

Not just in India, but helmet safety is a global concern. Luckily for us, we have an indigenous brand keen on improving helmet awareness and coping with the lack of helmets in developing countries, Steelbird. Steelbird is credited with being one of Asia’s largest helmet manufacturers and an Indian brand supplying worldwide. Due to its expansive worldwide distribution network, manufacturing capacity, high quality, and affordable range of helmets, the Indian manufacturer and the FIA have collaborated for its global road safety programme. With the support of the FIA Member Clubs’ worldwide network, the programme aims to provide high-quality helmets meeting United Nations Regulation 22.05 in those territories that have faced problems with low-quality helmets in their local market.

In an exclusive interview with Exhibit Magazine, Steelbird’s Managing Director, Rajeev Kapoor, shared some insights about the company’s plan. Among the top priority was providing sturdy, attractive and durable half-face helmets to countries like Uganda, post which its distribution will spread throughout Africa. The company also plans to improve helmet standards in India by increasing its already considerable array of helmet options. Apart from being the managing director of Steelbird, Mr Kapoor is also the  President of the Two-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association in India. He confirmed that the helmet standards would get stricter by the year, and the quality offered to the consumers will drastically improve, leading to more incentives for wearing helmets.

Apart from helmets, there are also some other tips that you can follow to improve your riding skills or stay safe in general. Not every person is a born racer; even professional racers have their share of crashes and broken bones. Hence, it is most important to understand your limits! More than having the financial capacity to ride a particular motorcycle, ask yourself if you have the mental ability to do so. Being overwhelmed and intimidated by your bike can lead to disastrous consequences, as displayed multiple times by crashing videos available on YouTube. These videos also serve as a makeshift premonition, so thou hast been warned!

Batman might look cool on his jet-black motorcycle, clad in jet-black armour. But he is Batman, and he can do whatever he feels like. However, for us, regular folks, that is one of the most disastrous ideas one can come up with. As a biker, night riding is incredibly challenging as the visibility is drastically reduced, and the risk is consequently higher. Even during the day, outside rearview mirrors (ORVMs) of cars have certain blind spots that drivers can look at. Riding in one of these blind spots can be hazardous, as the driver is unaware of your presence and can manoeuvre to your disadvantage. Hence, always stay visible!

Often motorcyclists develop a personal bond with their machines, sometimes even giving them names. While it might seem silly, it is, in fact, a valuable practice. Taking care of your motorcycle and keeping it in prime running condition is of utmost importance. This prevents any major mechanical problems and drastically reduces the risk of faulty mechanics leading to a significant accident.

These tips might not make you the best rider in the world, but they will keep you alive!

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.

 

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.

Urus marks its 100th footprint in India!

Urus, the Lamborghini Super SUV, has reached a prestigious milestone in delivering the 100th Urus in India. Since the first Urus delivery in India in September 2018, Urus has contributed significantly to India’s super sports car brand’s growth.

Commenting on the incredible achievement, Sharad Agarwal, Head of Lamborghini India, said, “The Urus has created a unique position for itself in the super-luxury car segment in India, not just by creating a completely new category but, more importantly, growing the entire segment. Urus has proven to be a game-changer for Lamborghini and currently contributes over 50 per cent of India’s brand’s volumes. While it offers an SUV versatility, it offers a super sports car’s driving dynamics and emotions. It has also, remarkably, helped penetrate tier 1 and 2 cities, gaining significant popularity among our group of clients.”
Embodying the Lamborghini DNA, the Urus opens new doors for customers to experience unprecedented SUV performance with a distinctive dynamic design and versatility for everyday usability. It is multi-dimensional and has a dual personality. Urus provides easy driving in the city, maximum comfort during long journeys, thrilling super sports car dynamics on the road and track, and versatile off-road abilities in various environments.
The Urus is equipped with a new front-mounted, 4.0 litre V8 twin-turbo engine capable of delivering 650 hp (478 kW) at 6,000 rpm, a maximum of 6,800 rpm, and 850 Nm of maximum torque already at 2,250 pm. With 162.7 hp/l, the Urus is one of the highest specific power outputs in its class and the best weight-to-power ratio at 3.38 kg/hp.
The Urus accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12.8 seconds and with a top speed of 305 km/h, it is the fastest SUV available. Braking is no less impressive: the Urus decelerates from 100 km/h to 0 in 33.7 m.
Urus has up to six driving modes. The Tamburo driving mode selector on the centre console controls all dynamic vehicle systems and allows the selection of driving dynamics according to surface conditions or drivers’ preference, via STRADA, SPORT and CORSA as well the additional NEVE (snow) mode. As an option, two further off-road settings are offered: TERRA (off-road) and SABBIA (sand).

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