Sudarshan Venu Led TVS Motor Company to Invest INR 1,000 Crore in Electric Vehicles, to Launch Over Half a Dozen EV Vehicles Across Segments by Mid-2023

 

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

India's third-largest two-wheeler maker, TVS Motor Company, has plans to invest Rs 1,000 crore to manufacture electric vehicles. Sudarshan Venu, the company’s joint Managing Director, said that the proposed EVs will fall under an independent vertical.

MrVenu, a TVS Group prodigy, paves the way for the next generation of leaders. As the company’s New Strategy leader, this new line of Electric Vehicles is his vision. Ralf Speth—recently appointed as chairman of TVS Motor and former CEO of Jaguar Land Rover—and Kuok Meng Xiong—a leading global eCommerce investor for ByteDance, Palantir and Airbnb—are mentors to the young scion.

It is no secret that an increasing number of startups are focusing on the EV segment, but this does not worry Sudarshan Venu. In his interview with Economic Times, he says, “We’ve quietly worked on EVs for the last one decade. It is a huge focus area for us as we advance. We are embracing this future; we are investing in it and are excited.” “We want to scale up the TVS electric experience pan India, and it is a space where we would like to play a leading role,” he continues.

Despite new-age EV entrants, mainstream two-wheeler makers are also being measured with them. Chetak from Bajaj Auto seems to be on its reincarnation journey, while TVS Motor seems to be as aggressive as ever. Additionally, Hero MotoCorp is steadily investing in Ather Energy and its in-house EV projects.

TVS Motor is working diligently on its 5-25kW two- and three-wheelers portfolio, launching all of them within 24 months. It aims to have electric vehicles across segments like delivery, commuter premium, high-performance sports, and electric three-wheelers.

The company’s new EV vertical has 500-600 engineers are already working on multiple concepts for the new market needs. Designed and developed in India with global R&D, this range of EVs aims to launch in foreign markets.

With a dedicated, scalable facility for electric vehicles, TVS Motor is also developing integrated vehicle architecture with battery and other critical parts manufactured in-house. MrVenu predicts that with falling battery cost, sustained policy support and product launch investments, customer acceptance will accelerate by 2025. “The bull case of the industry is what we will plan for, and we will invest behind it, and be ready for it,” he beamed during his interview with ET.

The infrastructure for charging is critical for faster EV adoption and TVS Motor is planning strategic partnerships to create an ecosystem of fast-charging vehicles.

TVS Motor’s first EV, the iQube, will go from Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Delhi and Pune to over 1,000 dealerships in major Indian towns and cities by FY22 end. Around then, it will also launch its Creon-concept end, foreseen to be the most advanced electric two-wheeler in India.

The company joint MD claims that TVS Motor has a “clear path” for iQube’s positive gross margin. It is all set to transform into a digital-age company with a connected, cool and electric brand, and his commitment of INR 1,000 crore is an investment in that direction.

"We are improving the profitability of our core business and cutting any Capex on non-core areas to keep the focus on electrification and digital future," Sudarshan Venu said to ET. When asked about sales and finance numbers, he said, “We should see very rapid growth from here on. While the total cost of ownership parity is still some time away, in the three to five years, you will see significant growth in the industry; that is why we are investing.”

Believing that EV development has to be "ground-up", he acknowledged that India can play a huge role in the sector, much like conventional two-wheelers. Applauding both states and the central government for the SoPs extended, he said any future policy support should drive “development of technology”, especially through battery technology, cell chemistry, etc.

TVS Motor is involved in the startup ecosystem with a special focus on telematics and connectivity platforms. Having greatly contributed to the company’s core business so far, they are sure their new focus will enhance the EV buying experience. TVS agility will be critical in the future of a connected and digital world.

One in a Billion: The BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition Launched

Gurugram, Haryana, India

•  Exclusivity of highest order: Limited units available on BMW Online Shop.

•  Master craftsmanship: BMW Individual paintwork, exclusive wooden trims, BMW Individual badging and personalized embroidery.

•  Exclusive M Sport package with Design Pure Excellence luxury interiors.

•  New driver assistance systems and smooth automated driving functions.

BMW India has launched the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition today. BMW’s flagship model is presented in a new avatar with exclusive personalization, iconic M performance, and handcrafted precision. Locally-produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, limited units of the Individual Edition can now be booked at shop.bmw.in.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Individual is now being locally produced in India at Plant Chennai for the first time. It represents bespoke personalization and gives a new dimension to the BMW 7 Series, an epitome of exclusivity and performance. This winning combination takes the story of contemporary luxury forward into the future by allowing customers to express their personality. The new BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition is an exclusive limited edition that achieves a peerless symbiosis of performance and individualization.”

Limited units of the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition are available at INR 1,42,90,000.

Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices inclusive of GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but exclude Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax cess levies, and insurance. Price/options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, log on to www.bmw.in.

The BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition is available in two exciting BMW Individual metallic colours – Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey with exclusive leather ‘Nappa’ with extended contents/stitching - Mocha and Black combination upholstery.

The Design Pure Excellence interior package sets brilliant accents that underline the contemporary, luxurious and aesthetic character with unique craftsmanship. M Sport exterior and powerful engine produce an adrenalin-rich combination to set the hearts of motorsport fans pounding.

Customers of the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition will gain membership to the exclusive BMW Excellence Club. A member’s only collective, BMW Excellence Club caters to the discerning taste of BMW customers by curating unmatched luxury experiences from around the world. The program features four main pillars: Bespoke Travel, The High Life, Grandstand and BMW Privileges.

BMW India Financial Services offer customized and flexible financial solutions as per individual requirements. BMW 360˚ offers exclusive financial packages with great value and absolute peace of mind. Customers will enjoy a hassle-free ownership experience with low monthly payments and flexible end-of-term options. Service Inclusive and Service Inclusive Plus further reduce cost of ownership. Customers can choose from a variety of service plans according to duration and mileage. The packages cover Condition Based Service (CBS) and maintenance work with plans starting at INR 51,700 for 3 years/40,000 kms.

The BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition.
The design of the BMW 7 Series is clearer, more modern and more emotional. Visually, the 7 makes a clear statement with an imposing presence, created by the distinctive front and rear design. The most striking feature is the BMW Individual special paint metallic finish in Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey. Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Laserlight technology enhance the commanding look. Dynamic character is emphasized by aerodynamically optimized bodywork elements of the M Sport package as standard. BMW Laserlight makes a striking impression and distributes light perfectly. An exclusive optional feature is the BMW Individual 20 light alloy wheels V-spoke style 628, painted in bicolour and 20 M light alloy wheels Star-spoke style 817 M.

Interior of the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition offers unique and bespoke personalisation. Customizable embroidery on specially crafted BMW Individual Alcantara headrest and backrest cushions offer customers the chance to express their personality integrating harmoniously with the sophisticated polish of BMW Individual interior trim badging on the dashboard and centre console. The ‘BMW Individual’ emblem on the interior trims is a perfect fit with the design, signalling its special roots. The BMW Individual Alcantara headliner in Ivory White and Canberra Beige highlights the special quality that can be seen and felt. Interior trim offers a refined premium option with exclusive Nappa leather upholstery with extended contents and stitching. The new fine-wood trim with wooden inlays adds a touch to luxury to the roof handles clasp, rear seats belt clasp and rear-centre armrest cup holder and provides premium experience of the highest order. Generous levels of space, ambient lighting, ambient air package, Panoramic glass roof Sky Lounge with LED light graphics are few among the long list of features that create the perfect ambience. The Executive Lounge appointments maximize comfort with four-zone automatic climate control, electrically adjustable comfort seats, massage function and active seat ventilation. In addition to the above, the BMW Individual design composition includes the comfort access system, front and rear active seat ventilation, the front and rear seat heating, climate comfort laminated glass and windscreen, soft close function and welcome light carpet features as standard.

Thanks to the unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol engine meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder produces an output of 340 hp and a maximum torque of 450 Nm at 1,500 – 5,200 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 km/hr. in just 5.6 seconds.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution, Driving Experience Control switch. Dynamic Damper Control improves ride quality and suspension by stabilizing all irregularities of the surface. The Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension enables raising and lowering of vehicle at the touch of button and automatically adjusts the height of the car to suit any given driving situation.

Rear-seat Entertainment Professional allows users to access the entertainment and navigation functions from the rear seats. It now comprises two 10.2 inch full-HD touch displays with a Blu-ray player. BMW Touch Command, the innovative system, offers a fully integrated control option for entertainment and comfort functions for the rear. The 7-inch tablet with touch function, which is integrated into the centre armrest and connected to the vehicle systems, can also be used outside the vehicle. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation. BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of several functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto ensures seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System conjures an engrossing treat for the ears. High-end 16 speaker system with woofers generates an impressive audio experience in all seats that is unique worldwide in the automotive sector.

New driver assistance systems and extended functions smooth the way to automated driving. The Lane Departure Warning component of the newly introduced BMW Driving Assistant now also has the lane return function. Range of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems includes Driving Assistant with Lane Change Warning, Rear Collision Warning, and Crossing Traffic Warning. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking, and steering. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of parking or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. With the Remote-Control Parking function, a driver can manoeuvre the vehicle into a narrow parking space from outside using the BMW Display Key.

BMW safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

Sonalika Records Highest Domestic Growth in Industry at 41.6%; Surpasses Industry Growth (est. 26.7%) in FY'21

 

After consistently achieving records of excellence month after month in FY’21, Sonalika Tractors has added yet another feather of superlative achievement to the hat of its glorious journey. Sonalika has recorded its highest ever annual sales of 1,39,526 tractors in FY’21 and among the leading market share gainers in the industry. The company has registered a phenomenal domestic growth rate of 41.6% over FY’20 volumes, which is highest in industry and beaten industry growth (est.26.7%) by a significant margin. Alongside, Sonalika has recorded its highest ever annual rotavator sales of 50,000 units in FY’21, recording double the volumes registered in FY’20. Overall, Sonalika Tractors has sold 13,093 tractors in March’21, registering a whopping 135% growth over March’20. 

Commenting on the superior performance in export markets, Dr. Deepak Mittal, Managing Director, Sonalika Group, said, “I am very pleased to see the extraordinary outcome this year. Our strong foundation has served as a unique platform for the company to continue recording extraordinary results even in the most challenging year and we have become the first Indian tractor company to cross 22,000 tractors exports in a single year. This success is credited to the committed team along with our distributors, dealers, financiers and loyal customers who stayed connected and performed in the markets under the adverse conditions without much travel or physical connect. We are proud of our market leadership in 6 countries and close second in another 5." 

Upbeat about the company’s performance, Mr. Raman Mittal, Executive Director, Sonalika Group, said, “Achieving a significant landmark of phenomenal domestic growth of 41.6% in FY’21, which is highest in industry and surpassing industry growth (est. 26.7%) by a significant margin amidst the most challenging year is a testimony that we have laid a strong foundation to remain closely knitted with our farmers and the society at large, which has only strengthened with time."

"Our plans were not deterred by the external unforeseen situations as we have always remained consistent with our approach to grow and serve our customers. Our innate ability to re-engineer our approach across all business functions powered us to come out as a clear winner month after month, throughout the year.” 

He added, “Our pace of transformation during the year has been faster than ever before across various verticals."

Manufacturing - We were among the first one to start production within all the prescribed safety protocols and attained full capacity operations within 2 months.

Sales - We have widened our channel network at a pace faster than ever before (145+ new channel partners added), thereby strengthening our national presence.

R&D and Product Innovation - Introduced the highest number of products during the year (6 new models), including the much talked out Tiger Electric model, and our regional technology introductions Mahabali and Chhatrapati, while constantly upgrading products with latest technology features like 4 wheel drive technology, multi speed transmission and precision 5G hydraulics.

Customer Care - Rolled out the 3X2 service to reach consumers closer to their farms and extended warranty of all tractors during the COVID-19 period.

Marketing - Pivoted our farmer-centric marketing programs on digital as well as other media platforms with high responsiveness.

Finance - We re-strategized our financial discipline to control unnecessary cost escalations arising due to unforeseen situations.

HR - We ensured 100% wages to the labour and also rolled out employee welfare initiatives as a support to households whose families were impacted by the pandemic.

CSR - A host of new initiatives were rolled out viz. dedicated 2 isolation centers (Delhi and hoshiarpur), Corona mobile testing van, PPE kits, sanitisation drives across states, developed ventilator system and many more.

Every single parameter of our business functions worked cohesively towards setting up new benchmarks of performance. We remain committed to bring technologically advanced products for our farmers & lead them to farm prosperity. ” 

 

About Sonalika Tractors

Sonalika Tractors, one of India’s leading tractor manufacturers and the No. 1 Exports brand from India, has established its robust presence in the domestic as well as in over 130 countries with 11 lakh+ customers. Sonalika manufactures the widest heavy duty tractor range in 20-120 HP and 70+ implements at its Hoshiarpur facility in Punjab that caters to the varied needs of customers across the globe. Being a farmer-centric brand, the Govt. of India has chosen Sonalika as the only tractor brand to contribute to the Niti-Aayog for its inspirational project of doubling the farmer’s income in the country.

No. 1 Heavy Duty Customised Crop Solutions

Sonalika tractor portfolio is customised as per the needs is equipped with efficient engines which give higher power output and remain affordable with low maintenance for better total cost of ownership and experience. Sonalika is the leading brand in more than 50 HP tractor segment and is strengthening its presence in more than 40HP segment to achieve the leadership position.

As the farm mechanisation expert, SonalikaAgro Solutions offers a wide range of implements to address various stages of crop cycle ranging from land preparation to post harvesting operations including residue management. Sonalika has also forayed into Custom Hiring Centres, a platform that offers small and marginal farmers an access to advanced agri machinery on rent, thereby aims to increase farm output in a cost effective way. The company has introduced ‘Agro Solutions’ app for easy access of requisite machinery to farmers, thereby promoting farm mechanization in the country.  

No. 1 Exports Brand from India

Sonalika is the No. 1 Exports brand from India and is proudly associated with 1.25 lakh customers in markets outside India, a true sign of acceptability of an Indian company across 130 countries. Having a 100% presence across all European countries, our tractors are successfully operated by more than 20,000 satisfied customers in diversified European conditions. Sonalika has also set up a spare parts centre in Germany that caters to the regional requirements with an aim to provide better service and customer satisfaction. 

About the World No. 1 plant

The Hoshiarpur plant of Sonalika is the World’s No. 1 vertically integrated tractor manufacturing plant that is designed to manufacture customised farm machinery as per the farmer’s crop-specific applications. The facility is fully equipped to manufacture almost every element in-house which goes in the making of a tractor and is powered by robotic as well as automation. 

AN Bureau

TVS Motor Company Launches the 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V – The 'Most Powerful' Motorcycle in its Class

 

Key features include class-leading 17.63 PS power, increased torque and reduction in motorcycle’s weight at current prices

TVS Motor Company, a reputed manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers in the world, 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 the 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 a precise and powerful riding experience. The motorcycle comes with an all-new dual tone seat with 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 147 kg and the drum variant weighing 145 kg.

The new TVS Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycle will be available in three colors: Racing Red, Knight Black, and Metallic Blue. It will be available in two variants at the current price; Disc priced at Rs. 110,320 (ex-showroom Delhi) and the Drum priced at Rs. 107,270 (ex-showroom Delhi). 

Watch the official TVC here - youtu.be/yyX3ND_iv1s.

About TVS Motor Company

TVS Motor Company is a reputed two and three-wheeler manufacturer and is the flagship company of the USD 8.5 billion TVS Group. We believe in Championing Progress through Mobility. Rooted in our 100-year legacy of Trust, Value, and Passion for Customers and Exactness, we take pride in making internationally aspirational products of the highest quality through innovative and sustainable processes. We endeavor to deliver the most superior customer experience at all our touch points across 60 countries. We are the only two-wheeler company to have received the prestigious Deming Prize. Our products lead in their respective categories in the J.D. Power IQS and APEAL surveys for five years. We have been ranked No. 1 Company in the J.D. Power Customer Service Satisfaction Survey for consecutive four years.

For more information, please visit www.tvsmotor.com. 

AN Bureau

Lexus Launches Bold New Aviation-inspired LC 500h Limited Edition

 LC 500h Limited Edition inspired by air-racing aerodynamic technology

- Specially developed rear wing fashioned with carbon fiber for enhanced driving pleasure & superior handling

- Exclusive Black ornamentation used on garnish, grille, rear wing and wheels to create a sharp, taut impression that evokes the image of a powerful bird

- Unique black AlcantaraTM trimmed sport seats with Saddle Tan accents and seat belts

Lexus India has launched a limited-edition model of its sports coupe- the LC 500h. Inspired by the graceful flight of birds and airplanes, this special edition focuses on a refined aerodynamic performance that aims to elevate sense of driving.

The new LC Limited Edition is inspired by a partnership between air race pilot Yoshihide Muroya and Lexus engineers. The Lexus team worked on different ways to create efficiencies for Muroya's aircraft, from refining the grip design of the control column to maximizing aerodynamics efficiencies using testing data learned on Lexus automobiles. The partnership ultimately assisted Muroya on his path to winning the 2017 Red Bull Air Race World Championships.

With a team consisting some of the same engineers who built the Lexus LFA supercar on board, Lexus took a unique approach by turning a preconceived concept on its head - literally. They found that taking an airplane wing and flipping it upside down improved maneuverability and efficiency at the wingtips. This led to the creation of an exquisite carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) rear wing that realizes greater steering responsiveness and stability without disrupting the LC's inherent vehicle stability. The LC 500h Limited Edition meets the demanding production quality expected of Lexus vehicles and offers a captivating design in harmony with exhilarating performance.

•  The LC 500h Limited Edition is available in three striking colours that accentuate the design of the vehicle - White Nova Glass Flake, Sonic Silver, and Black.

•  The interiors are adorned with Black AlcantaraTM trimmed seats that feature elegant Saddle Tan accents and seat belts.

•  The steering wheel, shift lever and door trims are also accented in Black AlcantaraTM trim.

•  An exclusive carbon-fiber scuff plate integrates the LC silhouette and lettering that reads "LC Limited Edition" & "LEXUS".

•  A sporty & aggressively styled 21-inch forged wheel, exclusive to the LC Limited Edition, aids in lower drag co-efficient with the same level of rigidity.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. P. B. Venugopal, President of Lexus India, said, "We are very excited to announce the addition of the exclusive limited edition of the LC 500h. With its bold, aviation-inspired design language, we are confident that it will be well received by our discerning guests who value and appreciate the quality of finer things in life."

The LC 500h Limited Edition will be available at a starting price of INR  2,15,60,000.

The LC 500 Convertible was named the Best Luxury Car of 2021 in the Women's World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) awards.

The model is among nine category winners recognized for their excellence in their segment, taking into account qualities including design, safety and comfort as key factors. As a category winner, it now goes forward for consideration for the Best Car of the Year title, to be announced by WWCOTY on 8 March, International Women's Day.

 

ABOUT LEXUS

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world's first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 1.5 million hybrid vehicles. A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries worldwide. Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.

Website: www.lexusindia.co.in

Facebook: @LexusIndia

Instagram: @lexus_india

AN Bureau

Embark on an Odyssey of a Lifetime: BMW Motorrad Safari 2021 Edition Commences in India

•  50+ hand-picked safari routes for a refined experience exclusively designed for BMW Motorrad owners.

•  Finest routes, tailored experiences and a chance to create unique and inspiring moments along the way.

#BMWMotorradSafari #MakeLifeARide #BMWMotorradIndia

BMW Motorrad India has kick-started its unique riding experience – BMW Motorrad Safari 2021 in India. Bringing out the essence of true exclusivity, the Motorrad Safari is designed only for BMW motorcycle owners in India and will offer the ultimate riding escapades on two wheels. 50+ curated riding experiences will be organized across the country offering participants a complete sense of exploration and adventure, with each ride exploring different destinations across the country.
 
The series started with the BMW Motorrad Desert Safari from 29-31 January 2021 exploring the trails of the great Indian Thar desert from Jaipur to Bikaner.  Participants got the most out of this safari with enhancing their riding skills and the confidence that comes with such proven rider safari formats. The safari also included a training session from BMW Motorrad International Instructors Academy (IIA) certified trainer on fundamental techniques of off-road riding and to improve overall riding skills.
 
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “At BMW Motorrad, we are passionate about helping BMW Motorrad owners to Make Life a Ride. Owning a BMW Motorrad bike opens a world of experiences for our customers to explore one’s passion for traveling, discovering new terrains and enjoying a sense of freedom. Our aim is to continuously grow the BMW Motorrad community and riding culture here in India and the BMW Motorrad Safari will create outstanding moments, stories and journeys for everyone who is a part of it.”
 
BMW Motorrad Safari is a tour-based concept for adventure enthusiasts. It not only promises loads of fun but is also helps participants learn new riding skills. It celebrates the freedom of riding and exploring new places along with like-minded individuals.  A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the ultimate terrains, the hairpin bends, and even the long winding highways. The Safari’s will operate for 2 to 5 days as a point-to-point tour.  Riders will be expected to go at their own pace. Plus, they will also receive invaluable insights along the route. A fully equipped crew with service and medical support will ensure a hassle-free riding experience.
 
Highlights of the BMW Motorrad Safari 2021 –

 

•  Ride with an exclusive group of BMW Motorrad riders led by an expert trainer and tour manager

•  Each ride is open to every BMW Motorrad owner from anywhere in the country

•  Pillions are welcome on BMW Motorrad Safari’s

 
Inclusions of the BMW Motorrad Safari 2021 -

 

•  Finest route covering fantastic roads

•  Daily rider briefings

•  Rider Welcome Pack (Including official BMW Motorrad merchandise)

•  BMW Motorrad support crew (luggage, technical, medical, tire support)

•  BMW Motorrad roadside assistance sweep vehicle

•  BMW off-road training (in select rides)

•  4-5-star accommodation with all meals (Breakfast, lunch & dinner)

•  Free pre-safari motorcycle inspection

 
Registration for the BMW Motorrad Safari can be made by contacting your nearest BMW Motorrad dealership.
 
The following regulations apply-

 

•  The rides are open exclusively for BMW Motorcycle owners.

•  Participants are required to hold a valid driver’s license (at the time of the event).

•  The bike has to be in good technical condition. The organizers are entitled to exclude vehicles that are not fit for the ride.

•  All riders must be equipped with suitable rider gear. 

Internet: www.bmw-motorrad.in
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BMWMotorradIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BMWMotorrad_IN
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCz9St6Kvq2uk-BbaWV15mA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwmotorrad_IN

AN Bureau

Skoda Auto India expands online sales platform, offers new features

Skoda Auto India on Tuesday announced expansion of its online retail sales platform, which will now include a live consultation suite and contactless virtual product demonstration option with an integrated network of its over 80 dealerships across the country.

The Czech carmaker had rolled out the digital sales platform last year.

The overwhelming response to the facility has prompted the company to broaden its scope, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, thereby securing the health and safety of its employees and customers, Skoda Auto India said in a release.

It offers the flexibility to choose a Skoda Auto vehicle in a hassle free and convenient manner at the comfort of one's home as the venture supports a robust live consultation suite and a contactless virtual product demonstration option, available for sign up on the website, and accessible via video conferencing over smartphones, tablets and personal computers, the company said.

In doing so, Skoda Auto India has integrated its over 80 plus dealership touchpoints pan-India, it said.

'The contactless programme testifies our commitment to use technology as a tool to stay connected with our customers and deliver an uncompromised sales and service experience, more so in these unprecedented circumstances,' Skoda Auto India Brand Director Zac Hollis said.

'The latest initiative provides customers with an opportunity to explore and experience our exciting new range of products from the comfort of their home,' he added.

With its latest MySkoda mobile app, the company provides a single window interface between an existing or a prospective customer and the brand.

The app allows customers to locate the nearest dealership facility, book a service appointment at a convenient time frame, access service history, cost calculator, accessories shop and itemized billing record, as well as connect to Skoda customer care, the release said.

AN Bureau