tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36904185327586155192024-03-13T11:28:35.264+05:30Walk The TorqueWelcome to THE blog for motor-heads in India and beyond! Automotive discussions, what car/bike to buy, technical write ups, industry patterns, news, reviews and whatever else, we can pour on top.
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Join us on Facebook to get daily updates.Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-46861786400128144222014-01-02T12:38:00.006+05:302014-01-03T14:53:07.193+05:30Suzuki Inazuma To Cost Well Over Rs. 3 lakh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Honda brought the mini VFR and christened it as the CBR 250R. The speedster is far from cheap at Rs 2.2 lakh on-road, but it has seen a large following. Rumours are now afloat that fellow Japanese two-wheeler giant Suzuki is planning to launch the baby B King i.e. the Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma at around Rs 3.20 lakh give or take a few thousand Rupees. The Inazuma has already been seen at multiple dealerships and it is believed that pre-bookings are underway. Suzuki will officially launch the quarter litre streetster towards the end of January. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Nz3KFLGbyVXfSIHq4BMD8HVG3oJdVAkrPzMtRwTOOb1jct6myv7LU0qIxUGxwg2EvXW3zInK-t1nug0A5fOAIp5-g0YMC_RfcfD56qX2UfrHKLkLWmM8CSFFxrTIIS2s1UbkWl3oX6c/s1600/images+(29).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Nz3KFLGbyVXfSIHq4BMD8HVG3oJdVAkrPzMtRwTOOb1jct6myv7LU0qIxUGxwg2EvXW3zInK-t1nug0A5fOAIp5-g0YMC_RfcfD56qX2UfrHKLkLWmM8CSFFxrTIIS2s1UbkWl3oX6c/s1600/images+(29).jpg" /></a></div>
The Inazuma GW 250 is powered by a 250cc fuel injected parallel twin than pumps out a peak power of 26 bhp and 24.4 Nm of torque, all this being mated to a 6-speed gearbox. If Suzuki does go ahead and price the Inazuma at Rs 3.20 lakh (nearly Rs 3.5 lakh on-road) it will be interesting to see if they can rake in the numbers. The Inazuma is a parallel twin as opposed to the single that powers the CBR 250R & it invites more duties as it is coming in through the CKD route making it more expensive. But it is evident that the performance figures, at least on paper aren’t exactly worlds apart (The Honda CBR 250R stands at 22.9 NM of torque & 25 BHP). Being a twin cylinder will translate to better torque delivery at lower speeds, but it is rather difficult to imagine that factor driving enough customers to Suzuki dealerships. For reference, Kawasaki’s Ninja 300 is also a parallel twin & manages 27nm of torque and 38.5 BHP! Not to mention the fact that the GW 250 has not received any medals for its looks. When early rumours floated on social media, the most common reaction was that the Inazuma looked too dated for it to work in India.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F9-RjQNXSZ0PVY8RwCUtAVPdF-CxsCIct5iOm-GCJyl9erD9TORfkU5oeQOe_75dq0MjpgBbchMAYXBQk6bpTWBdKUHK6YxNN5OKdC_Lhfar7vmigzIoV6uBZhk6bDEwpoqJuJlKg8Q/s1600/Honda_CBR250R_Kawasaki_Ninja_300_Suzuki_250_Inazuma_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F9-RjQNXSZ0PVY8RwCUtAVPdF-CxsCIct5iOm-GCJyl9erD9TORfkU5oeQOe_75dq0MjpgBbchMAYXBQk6bpTWBdKUHK6YxNN5OKdC_Lhfar7vmigzIoV6uBZhk6bDEwpoqJuJlKg8Q/s320/Honda_CBR250R_Kawasaki_Ninja_300_Suzuki_250_Inazuma_.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b><br /><br />-Image via bikescatalog.com</b><br />
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The Ninja 300 is an entry level sport bikers dream and chances are that if a person had to spend the additional 50k, he’d probably save up for a bit longer and buy the Kawasaki (Apart from the performance figures, Indians do generally prefer fully faired motorcycles). What’s more is that the KTM Duke 390 has Indian roads slippery with bikers drooling over its performance to price ratio. Even Honda revealed the CBR 300R China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition and this time it literally is a baby blade with enthusiasts lauding its reveal. Performance stats are at 27 NM of torque and a peak power of around 30 BHP. There hasn't been any confirmation on when the successor CBR will arrive here, but since it still will be a single cylinder it is likely to fall below the Rs 3 lakh price bracket. The GW 250 will have to either market itself better or Suzuki will have to come out with a better package if the Inazuma has any hope of being successful.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-19370057852604110732013-12-31T12:51:00.002+05:302013-12-31T12:54:08.257+05:30Triumph Begins Bookings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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In the week leading up to Triumph Motorcycles India’s launch several shots of their first dealership opening in Bangalore emerged. Even though neither one of the showrooms have cut the red ribbon, Triumph has officially opened for bookings. The British bike legend was launched on November 28th this year amid much anticipation. Triumph had announced that they would commence bookings by the 2nd week of December and have gone through albeit after a short delay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgO_UJm2o9BENSlitoTuPYBnxiBeY_XlnTm_eevWXz-72CDNeNbSzkMmdb08eSRcRM_JlUCVSOhNYv7P6x4ABGlPEXYIJb64aBVSqaCHXhBvG-QcxiMn73dCCIHYeG_3ZVJrdfVxZ4brc/s1600/1456578_255925401221390_1054653385_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgO_UJm2o9BENSlitoTuPYBnxiBeY_XlnTm_eevWXz-72CDNeNbSzkMmdb08eSRcRM_JlUCVSOhNYv7P6x4ABGlPEXYIJb64aBVSqaCHXhBvG-QcxiMn73dCCIHYeG_3ZVJrdfVxZ4brc/s1600/1456578_255925401221390_1054653385_n.jpg" /></a>Throwback to that launch Thursday in November & you would remember Triumph’s plan to have nine dealerships in India within the first quarter of 2014. Currently the first two dealerships are down south while the bookings in Delhi & Mumbai are expected to be operational by the end of January. However, for the customers who are fortunate enough to have booked their motorcycles already deliveries will be around the same time as when bookings commence for other cities. Triumphs plant at Manesar, Haryana will be producing the models that are expected to invite higher demand. The Triumph Bonneville, Bonneville T100, Daytona 675R, Thruxton, Street Triple & Speed Triple will all be coming in through the CKD route and will be assembled here. The Tiger Explorer, Rocket III, Tiger 800XC and Thunderbird storm will all be complete imports and therefore invite higher duties. Triumph’s price tags begin at Rs 5.7 lakh for the classic Bonneville & go all the way up to Rs 20 lakh for the flagship Rocket III.<br />
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Here is the complete price list: (Prices may vary depending on your location)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-3_1l91NoAxHOnkTzQjBuSquSlpAGo2SYGw83VOUuGm5FJV_5rcNEL2mZ8p9fGvGwmDg7uCKgvIIlH0RfK105Tn_zYdfU5WpRoDxphG7Q6NPV0duQC0WHGLNhUvjMjNQF_aBq1PLJlM/s1600/2010_Triumph_Speed_Triple_Ohlins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-3_1l91NoAxHOnkTzQjBuSquSlpAGo2SYGw83VOUuGm5FJV_5rcNEL2mZ8p9fGvGwmDg7uCKgvIIlH0RfK105Tn_zYdfU5WpRoDxphG7Q6NPV0duQC0WHGLNhUvjMjNQF_aBq1PLJlM/s320/2010_Triumph_Speed_Triple_Ohlins.jpg" width="320" /></a>1. Bonneville-...................................5.70 lakh<br />
2. Bonneville t100-...........................6.60 lakh<br />
3. Thruxton-....................................6.70 lakh<br />
4. Street triple-................................7.50 lakh<br />
5. Speed triple-................................10.4 lakh<br />
6. Thunderbird storm-.......................13 lakh<br />
7. Rocket III -...................................20 lakh<br />
8. Tiger 800XC-................................12 lakh<br />
9. Tiger explorer-.............................17.9 lakh<br />
10. Daytona 675r-.............................11.4 lakh<br />
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While Triumph is beginning its exploration of the Indian market, the all American legend Harley-Davidson had readied the Street 500 and Street 750. Harley-Davidson’s “By-India-For-India” Street siblings are slated for a launch any day now and may well pose a serious threat to Triumph. Most people had their excitement let down by Triumph’s heavy pricing & with the Street 500 & 750 expected to arrive below the 5 lakh price bracket the British legend may struggle to compete with the yanks.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-14969427520644993002013-12-30T18:44:00.002+05:302013-12-30T22:18:34.982+05:30Honda Two-Wheelers Starts sales in Bangladesh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Honda may have split up with one of the world’s highest selling two wheeler makers, Hero. But that seems to have only bolstered their plans to expand their reach into countries around our sub-continent. Bangladesh Honda Pvt ltd (BHPL), started locally producing the Honda CD 80 (A 4-speed 79cc utility motorcycle) in October 2012. Since then they have started expanding their sales network in Bangladesh. Although at the moment BHPL has only opened two dealerships, they plan to root themselves in Bangladesh and get established as a major player.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NIomuJJEoYyBUBpA7pwTojmbcxlvnHBgSkSGFVUhdLNgukbBjX52IDTfMjpYyxOfUKmlkNMyI1Qdgpb4ngFIX-fxUHQ_Om54A-1_xmf3KjyM7bODnn_IdQbowAF0M35BM92rTxmWwsA/s1600/062306_cd80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NIomuJJEoYyBUBpA7pwTojmbcxlvnHBgSkSGFVUhdLNgukbBjX52IDTfMjpYyxOfUKmlkNMyI1Qdgpb4ngFIX-fxUHQ_Om54A-1_xmf3KjyM7bODnn_IdQbowAF0M35BM92rTxmWwsA/s320/062306_cd80.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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One dealership has been opened in Tangail while the other will operate in Jamalpur. Honda will be focusing entirely on commuter motorcycles and it is unlikely that Bangladesh will see performance models like the CBR 250r just yet. The current model range count stands at six including the locally produced CD80 and the Dream Neo that will be imported from Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd (HMSI). The joint venture with Bangladesh Steel and Engineering Corporation (BSEC) was processed towards the end of 2012 with the intention of providing affordable, low-maintenance & high efficiency motorcycles to the masses. The “start small, grow big” approach that Honda is taking means that the service back-up will grow simultaneously.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mNSR3EwXC4J2eg3txszQEm63WChT7bMdOYqzOBtwLgXkbJYGOoA7BlgerK5cg1_M_jIPmAvNk4w-SNgRrUiCarFw2R0xusRc8KnHPaotydad5_eao3VTAsRKrUoh203JqZjVXEbQcIk/s1600/Honda-s-cheapes5351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2mNSR3EwXC4J2eg3txszQEm63WChT7bMdOYqzOBtwLgXkbJYGOoA7BlgerK5cg1_M_jIPmAvNk4w-SNgRrUiCarFw2R0xusRc8KnHPaotydad5_eao3VTAsRKrUoh203JqZjVXEbQcIk/s320/Honda-s-cheapes5351.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bangladesh is a small nation with a population of just 150 million and the industry-wide two-wheeler sales figures stand at a mere 200,000 units in 2012. The Japanese automotive giant is hoping to reinforce its prowess in the region by not only catering to the existing demand, but by creating more of it. The Bangladeshi market requirement is a mirror image of what the Indian market was less than a decade ago.<br />
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Honda’s existing experience in Pakistan and India means that they are going in prepared & this could prove to yet another fruitful endeavour. Hero Motorcorp on the other hand is already selling its motorcycles via the CKD route. The Indian two wheeler giant also revealed its plans to set up a production line in Bangladesh as well as Columbia. Both motorcycle manufacturers are in the phase of laying down their groundwork in Bangladesh, what remains to be seen is how well the buyers respond to this <br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-37998920787460526332013-12-27T14:23:00.000+05:302013-12-28T12:34:35.752+05:30Maruti Suzuki may start production in Sri Lanka<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
India’s king of reliability is considering an expansion in its operations by adding facilities in our neighbour down south. Maruti Suzuki has started talks and research to ascertain the viability of setting up a production line in Sri Lanka. The growing demand from African, Middle-Eastern and even South-East Asian markets has seen Maruti setting up larger sales networks.<br />
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Currently MSIL has the reputation of being the best particularly in terms of service back-up, reliability, affordable cars and spare parts alike. Sri Lanka has a similar customer base to that of India and Maruti could gain in terms of both sales in the island nation & if all goes to plan, could also turn it into a major export hub. Discussions are still underway to analyse taxation structures, labour laws and manpower recruitment. Maruti’s expansion is known to not be limited to just urban areas. In the last year their reach has gone from 44000 to 60000 villages and it doesn’t end there. Plans are in full swing to almost double that reach in Q1 2014. Rural sales grew by 18% from the 2nd quarter of 2013. (With even Lamborghini launching their tractors it’s no wonder that Maruti is tapping this demand)<br />
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Maruti Suzuki’s plans to introduce more models could see India & Sri Lanka turning into the primary hubs in south-east Asia. A new plant that is taking shape in Gujarat may be operational by early 2015 along with an R&D centre in Rohtak, Haryana. The existing plant in Manesar, Haryana has already become a primary supplier of models like the Swift to several international markets. Apart from this the auto-maker will also start focusing entirely on affordable commuter vehicles. In what could be called the “My first was a Maruti” philosophy, the company will be focusing on its brand image’s strength and veering away from high end models.<br />
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After the Kizashi failed to see a strong reaction (both in India and overseas) the car giant will be producing more cars for the masses. At the moment MSIL offers around 16 different models for sale in India, from which the best-sellers remain well under the Rs 10 lakh price bracket.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-716146397690309192013-12-19T23:05:00.000+05:302013-12-20T22:18:26.610+05:30Women and Cars: Are you a front or rear lover?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This is normally a discussion reserved for those who genuinely indulge in the intricacies of performance, drive quality and feel. Front wheel drive or rear wheel drive is rarely a deal breaker for most motorists. However, in discussions like petrol VS diesel, automatic VS manual, turbo VS naturally aspirated; there is always one question that is common. Which one is better? So, in this read we have an overview of the two and try to ascertain which drive wheel makes for a better deal.<br />
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One trend that has taken over is the shift from rear wheel drive to front. In 2010 BMW announced that it would join this bandwagon and pedal-heads were on the floor wailing to an extent that would make toddlers begging for lollipops at a grocery store judge them. The advantages of front-wheel drive are mainly practical. With the drive train, engine and steering all packaged together under the hood, it's easier to give more space to passengers or cargo inside. They also enable engineers to make a car that’s lighter, more fuel efficient and in some cases, lower in emissions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_5hlGdhzTK5Wi3bOh1cgdsmcncXhXyVcLjk03lEmKNyNmr5z2jbk_j_BzpvIhecMM_vGxWjgDFL-JRteTDpM1XmPmeHkn3eZw07yKZfasaA3Qu4-th_Niec7EK4bdAOrlVDUcuCxfhw/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_5hlGdhzTK5Wi3bOh1cgdsmcncXhXyVcLjk03lEmKNyNmr5z2jbk_j_BzpvIhecMM_vGxWjgDFL-JRteTDpM1XmPmeHkn3eZw07yKZfasaA3Qu4-th_Niec7EK4bdAOrlVDUcuCxfhw/s1600/download.jpg" /></a><br />
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The Achilles heel of the front wheel machine is its steering. It is the reason why high-BHP cars are better off being powered from the back. In RWD vehicles the axles play zone defense. The front deals with the steering while the rear handles the thrust, neither getting in the way of the other in normal driving scenarios. In FWD cars under-steer or “torque-steer” is a nuance that makes many an eye twitch.<br />
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Imagine yourself going for a run. When you come up at a curve, your entire body moves into the motion to<br />
get you in the direction you want. Try the same thing just moving from the waist down and the smart money says you’re going to trip over and fall with the only airbag being your body fat, but I digress.<br />
In the same sense, your legs are you drive wheels. Leave the job of steering on them alone and your drive faces resistance, eventually resulting in only one winning if not done with caution. Enter a curve too fast and your power clashes with your steering, making the car move almost straight ahead. This is where the enthusiasts puff their chests and go “I told you so.”<br />
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But don’t go flipping your front axle the bird just yet. Remember, many car makers are switching over to FWD for a reason. With the car’s driving capabilities being managed under the hood, it leaves a lot more room in the cabin for passengers and a nicety or two. Occupants in the back don’t have to deal with an enormous floor hump either. Several five seaters out there are actually four-seaters with wiggle room for a fifth because of the trans-box bump. The movement of the entire unit under the bonnet also reduces transmission loss from the engine to the output differential. The main reason why the F-word of the drive wheel world is more desirable to manufacturers is that it makes the car more useful for its buyer. Let’s face it most cars are bought for their efficiency, space and features on tap. Motoring is a passion to many, but in the real world they need practicality. Pulling off a slalom or drifting is hard to do when 99% of your commute in spent emulating cattle on your way to work. The best wheel spin you can manage is giving it too much gas on left-over road-work gravel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzwQC17nj5vHmugQtb29fuaY5mlRMnujUrzGioTNn4FyjbsLX-z8tUvW_NzxSQ0OhhpVW25T64euY9ci8zTP3NPsDZWsqZ0AhOOopFq8hgryDKvp3-6tj73RF8bcK6ZxxVCjxP9Num40/s1600/fwd_rwd_XOR_PakWheels(com).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzwQC17nj5vHmugQtb29fuaY5mlRMnujUrzGioTNn4FyjbsLX-z8tUvW_NzxSQ0OhhpVW25T64euY9ci8zTP3NPsDZWsqZ0AhOOopFq8hgryDKvp3-6tj73RF8bcK6ZxxVCjxP9Num40/s320/fwd_rwd_XOR_PakWheels(com).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Rear wheel drive vehicles have a more desirable driving experience. Some say it’s a more connected type of drive. RWD’s especially handle better because drive and direction don’t get in each other’s way and when they do, they produce the awesome act of drifting..or the stupid act of spinning out. *Oversteer>Understeer*. Since these cars have a more reliable steering response & enable back end control, enthusiasts always give it the thumbs up. While over-steer has an entire sport around it, under-steer is no fun and only hampers drive-ability.<br />
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Concluding this article of a definitive note is not possible. It’s the same affair as comparing Beyonce with Jennifer Love Hewitt. The features, mannerisms and behaviour you prefer are just that, YOUR preference. If you like your butts big who am I to judge you? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3qPtzUE0ok3o7Ly-cT-uVj40rJea7it6HW39gqt0xZKEMhyOIEhBgpQhEfRijPdWbISDsGmyJzuPvt0C2cIt1tBTp8X-NWNR8ZMLVUcDYlz_qmc8bwwpzWx_e1Cte61sijCQZCU013U/s1600/download+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3qPtzUE0ok3o7Ly-cT-uVj40rJea7it6HW39gqt0xZKEMhyOIEhBgpQhEfRijPdWbISDsGmyJzuPvt0C2cIt1tBTp8X-NWNR8ZMLVUcDYlz_qmc8bwwpzWx_e1Cte61sijCQZCU013U/s320/download+(1).jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Front wheel drive cars make for a smarter pick because they are lighter, more spacious, more efficient and more cost effective to make. Rear wheel drive is the for the old school motorist who doesn’t see the difference between light beer and lemon juice. The cars are heavier, face more transmission loss, eat into passenger space and are a more expensive affair, but are genuinely more fun to drive. And you can’t just turn a blind eye to that.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-39906056512070006862013-12-06T19:09:00.001+05:302013-12-20T01:01:33.112+05:30Rider Ramble #2-The Harley-Davidson Street 500 & 750<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Spy shots on just about every automotive portal for months & rumours about Harley-Davidson targeting India as a major market eventually got confirmed when it culminated into the official reveal of the Street 750 & Street 500. Bikers everywhere rejoiced at the prospect of getting a low-cost American legend and talks of the Indian market boom were up again. Lower displacement editions from premium brands are a trend that has caught on with multiple motorcycle makers, because at the end of the day they seem to act like <strike>Viagra </strike> a catalyst for sales charts. In joining this particular bandwagon however, has Harley-Davidson tried to sell their legendary legacy as opposed to getting buyers because of it?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwtFobXmdh6QI3rdoIPIl2iIGst3WSEFUx52yxchTd-7pJ6KNDQWVdXj2eKw4UPqSEGTv0-ZJD6iDSRdLXeyXDup2XiJPZsNVDNSXkdbVaqeypHoT8npcB41tU37Okp0h2tlbEYhweCo/s1600/1463755_624089474304488_1383970750_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwtFobXmdh6QI3rdoIPIl2iIGst3WSEFUx52yxchTd-7pJ6KNDQWVdXj2eKw4UPqSEGTv0-ZJD6iDSRdLXeyXDup2XiJPZsNVDNSXkdbVaqeypHoT8npcB41tU37Okp0h2tlbEYhweCo/s320/1463755_624089474304488_1383970750_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Let’s have a look at what these siblings have to offer. Both have a 60 degree twin cylinder engine labelled the “Revolution X”. They are still belt-driven and mated to a 6-speed transmission. Instead of dual exhausts they have dual bend-pipes that join into a single exhaust and the brakes are single caliper disks, which means ABS won’t be an option. The 500 is expected to be priced at around Rs. 4.5 lakh while the 750 will empty your pockets by just over Rs. 5 lakh. Pricing wise Harley met with expectations. If you wanted to be any cheaper then obviously you aren't supposed to buy one and I’ll tell you why at the end of this piece.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17WdESTDhq-N6a1OeGpjyvSPRkphQIWcvblkva1vCGrOXt-u7sjdEW_5ABg6uVkQN94g8e_4wXGi3z2IXlSlbRepnaqExM6WAUWdl3K5sfRjgaHDnQD8fXhi6afb7Zxvx3lYzNEtEmAc/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17WdESTDhq-N6a1OeGpjyvSPRkphQIWcvblkva1vCGrOXt-u7sjdEW_5ABg6uVkQN94g8e_4wXGi3z2IXlSlbRepnaqExM6WAUWdl3K5sfRjgaHDnQD8fXhi6afb7Zxvx3lYzNEtEmAc/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Like most cult brands, Harley Davidson has its fair share of hard-core loyalists who have a pre-set list of what a Harley is and isn't. A person riding an Iron 883 or a V-Rod would know that there are many who label them as “sell out” models of the family and often face flak. The same goes for Royal Enfield. The UCE engine is better, more efficient, lighter and more reliable than the cast-iron, but lacks the one thing that RE was known for, the thump. Similarly with the Street 500 & 750, Harley Davidson is sure to see a remarkable rise in numbers, but has made the people who made the brand what it is feel less special. Cult brands have the same appeal as classic cars. If everyone has one, it’s hardly as valuable.<br />
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You might argue that they will still be great performers since they are Harleys. Though the official figures aren’t out yet, sources say that the Street 750 will have a maximum power output of 54 BHP and max torque at 44nm. The Street 500 will have understandably lower credentials. Keep in mind that the Continental GT puts out 29.1 BHP and 44nm of torque. Royal Enfield is far from popular for its engineering prowess and for a Harley-Davidson to not outperform it while being over twice as expensive is an embarrassment. In the process you may get a showroom that’s overbooked, but it’s the same deal as the management quota in Indian educational institutions. You got your money, but the quality of students degrades.<br />
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Now coming to the part about ownership. This is a part that several high end brand buyers fail to recognize and a problem that their service centres understand best. People have no problem in taking out a loan and coughing up over Rs. 30 lakh on one of the German big three. It is a big deal to say you drive a Mercedes or an Audi and that’s something that only money can buy. However, they have their pride sputter like<i> tadka</i> when their regular service cost comes up in five-figures. The labour costs involved make you wonder if you should take up the job of the guy fixing your car part-time. One thing every car/high end bike buyer needs to understand is that manufacturers make their big bucks after you’ve bought the car. Spare parts and consumable always have a heavy mark-up, because the manufacturer doesn’t make a huge margin on the car sold after the cost of production, dealer’s cut, tax etc.<br />
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<b>Take the example of the Toyota Echo. This was a car that found incredible sales in the middle-east. The car turned into a best seller and you couldn’t go a day without seeing at least 10 of them either parked, being driven or both, but the car was soon put out of production. Why? Because it was too maintenance free! Toyota service centres rarely got an opportunity to fix any parts and hence made a bare minimum margin on their highest selling car and this is what everyone who plans to buy a Street 500 or 750 needs to know before that test-ride.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFniVkZoKdYIuuhkgRGppzwoowot0mjiOmmO73Wc6WC_m3kXrqLq1vocxKtUWg02Rw3xAW5NXpGiXnZMFYiviWR5ceE4yudCI5_9f7pcSJfKZzRCN_yKXoug2obXlUnSRdBKLs240w64/s1600/harley+davidson+logo+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFniVkZoKdYIuuhkgRGppzwoowot0mjiOmmO73Wc6WC_m3kXrqLq1vocxKtUWg02Rw3xAW5NXpGiXnZMFYiviWR5ceE4yudCI5_9f7pcSJfKZzRCN_yKXoug2obXlUnSRdBKLs240w64/s200/harley+davidson+logo+08.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
These motorcycles are cannot be treated like a Hero Honda or Bajaj. These motorcycles are not meant to be taken to your local roadside mechanic. They don’t have cables and bolts that can be victimized to <i>jugaad</i> and be temporarily replaced by the same parts as a Kinetic. They are not motorcycles that can be parked in the vegetable market without the rider being worried that some miscreant will see the fuel tank as a canvas for his house keys nor can you get away from a traffic cop easy because you ride a bike that carries a brand name that he can’t even pronounce right. Their service costs will make you realize why Harley-Davidsons and other high end motorcycle brands are status symbols and also get you back down to earth.<br />
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So to sum up, the Street 500 and 750 will find a lot of buyers. They will be adequate performers and be the pride of many owners and will get a lot of heads to turn, but in the process of boosting sales Harley-Davidson runs the risk of making its own loyalists feel ridiculed. The biggest thing that any prospective buyer needs to know is that the 4-5 lakh price may be attractive, but the reason why Harley Davidsons are expensive is because the person who buys one can afford to look after it as well. I would personally love to own either one of these machines, but I know that the cost to buy them is one thing and the price to own one is another.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-89538315985964945622013-12-02T14:24:00.002+05:302014-04-25T15:16:43.517+05:30KTM Duke 390 vs Royal Enfield Continental GT<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Royal Enfield finally launched the Continental GT after its reveal at the Delhi Auto Expo back in 2010. Unlike the rest of the RE range, the CGT is not a tourer or a cruiser. It is a café racer, which means that this is more about the speedometer than odometer. Prior to the arrival of the Continental GT the big bike release was the KTM Duke 390. The reason why this is a big deal is not only the fact that you could now get a high displacement sports bike for just around Rs. 2 lakh, but also because the Duke 390 will be Royal Enfield’s biggest threat.<br />
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First off let’s have a look at the basic specs:-<br />
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<b><u>KTM Duke 390:</u></b> <br />
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Displacement: 373.2cc<br />
Max Power: 44 BHP<br />
Max Torque: 35 NM<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeB44sXXZImTnJIdo2qx63kjx7wDI-D9H866CS0G6WZd1O_ydw-wi6PdaJnOpgYiQcS0tJ1hlnrtTuqLpBm09X_VbLNpjyhVfhEOMGMMeb3koFf7J1lPiLQoM8YA4gmwM-7vBnSvxkEg/s1600/529363_251220275025236_56520058_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeB44sXXZImTnJIdo2qx63kjx7wDI-D9H866CS0G6WZd1O_ydw-wi6PdaJnOpgYiQcS0tJ1hlnrtTuqLpBm09X_VbLNpjyhVfhEOMGMMeb3koFf7J1lPiLQoM8YA4gmwM-7vBnSvxkEg/s320/529363_251220275025236_56520058_n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Royal Enfield Continental GT:</u></b><br />
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Displacement: 535cc<br />
Max Power: 29.1 BHP<br />
Max Torque: 44 NM<br />
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Many people ask if it’s fair to compare them since not only are they in different categories, but they also have a TVS Apache between them. The fact is that their pricing does bind them as bedfellows. The performance figures are not far off so this is actually as close as a head to head needs to be. Now coming to the big question, which one should you buy?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-BrMQepHRg3Ko0g8l-PCRhdt883PgA5etijHxbVFlIN1nWnxHqXcPBJNICGcdo_c77kEtUPhB_mTPQQlFZcxnfeI5VZYt0XTE-re3naPzK03Gxt9b5YOYOrbGE8hD_Tfl7QQNnKLSu4/s1600/KTM+Specs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-BrMQepHRg3Ko0g8l-PCRhdt883PgA5etijHxbVFlIN1nWnxHqXcPBJNICGcdo_c77kEtUPhB_mTPQQlFZcxnfeI5VZYt0XTE-re3naPzK03Gxt9b5YOYOrbGE8hD_Tfl7QQNnKLSu4/s320/KTM+Specs.jpg" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
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The KTM Duke 390 is an unapologetic street bike. The strokes are short, the rev range is high and the bike is like a young greyhound on 10 cartons of Red-Bull. While most street bikes in India will manage 100kmph, the 390 does yoga at that speed. It pretty much skips speed ranges and goes from 30-60-80kmph and with ABS dual disk brakes it will stop just as fast. So the Duke will zip through traffic and is great if you’re looking to make a quick 200km breakfast run on a Sunday morning & hit 170kmph or more. The Duke 390 seems like it’s too good to be true, but despite being a complete package it does have its drawbacks.<br />
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1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The engine heats up a lot. This bike is meant for high speeds and constant start-stop movement will see your ankles getting a sauna treatment.<br />
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2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>A short stroke engine gets you great 0-60 figures, but also means constant shifting. Low end torque delivery won’t be as good as the Continental GT, so gear shifts will be very frequent in city riding.<br />
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3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The 390 is a stand out motorcycle, but doesn’t stand out from its younger sibling the 200. The bikes look almost the exact same and in fact the 390 has 90% of its parts sourced from the 200. It would take a keen eye to immediately pin point which one is the bigger Duke.<br />
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4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The seats still feel like sitting on a wooden plank. Riders of the 200 will tell you that after prolonged riding, this is not a very butt-friendly bike.<br />
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5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is too powerful. This statement may sound like a travesty, but hear me out. The problem is handling that kind of power needs experience. Not only is it a fast bike, but also a very light one giving it a great power to weight ratio. The rider of this machine needs to be very aware of its mannerisms. Enter a corner too fast and the rider may just lose all grip, give it too much gas in the city and your need to brake will get you frustrated and burn a lot of fuel.<br />
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Above Image Via: <a href="http://images.maxabout.com/misc/infographics/image/continental-gt-lightest-fastest-and-most-powerful-royal-enfield">Maxabout.com</a><br />
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Now over to the new veteran on the block. The Royal Enfield Continental GT is all about the torque. It will be fast off the mark and manage 35kmph in 4th gear if it has to. Café racers are street speedsters, but back in the 60’s the streets were a lot different. Racing was about short sprints from café to café, hence the namesake “café racer”. Contrary to the beliefs of many Royal Enfield loyalists, this is a true Royal Enfield. It is a genuine British classic as it was meant to be, but that actually creates a fair amount of speculation.<br />
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Royal Enfield depends on its loyalists and brand heritage to rake in sales. The majority of their loyalists are long distance riders who need their saddle bags, tank bags and ladakh carriers to feel complete. The Continental GT however is not the ideal choice for this, which is where the problem arises. The café racer has an identity of its own, but faces problems while trying to identify with buyers. It isn’t entirely a street bike and isn’t a long distance cruiser either. The riding position isn’t as wrist heavy as the CBR 250r, but isn’t as relaxed as the rest of the Royal Enfield range. With 44nm of torque, this ride doesn’t need a flexible rev range and you will find yourself mainly between 2000-4500 rpm.<br />
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The CGT is however, a motorcycle that will stand out. Bright red/yellow colour options, a look that has been restricted to modifications until now and the fact that India has never seen Royal Enfield in such a unique manner means every buyer will get attention and a lot of it. This is a bike that can perform really well and will handle curvy ghats the best. City riding will be great as its riding position isn’t too hunched, low rev torque delivery equates to minimal shifting and the seats are fairly comfortable. Here are some things to look out for.<br />
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1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>With a 13.5-litre fuel tank, this isn’t ideal Royal Enfield for long distance riding . The 535cc engine will manage 30kmpl at best in real world conditions and less if you plan on gunning it on the open roads. The company claimed top speed is 150kmph, so it can manage a little above that.<br />
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2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is meant to be a single seater. The Duke 390’s pillion seat is nothing to write home about, but the Continental GT doesn’t have one at all (it is an optional extra)<br />
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3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is a Royal Enfield at the end of the day so it won’t be easy on the pocket. These bikes are still hand-made and with that comes human error, so don’t be surprised if your clutch cable needs changing after a few months, because it won’t be as easy to live with as the Duke 390.<br />
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4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Spare parts are often a hassle with Royal Enfields and with the CGT using a few different components as compared to the rest of the RE range, spares may run a little bit on the expensive side.<br />
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5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Royal Enfields have been downsized since the Classic arrived. They ride lower and have a smaller profile, so if you are the stereotyped Bullet-man the Continental GT may not suit your personality as well as you would have liked.<br />
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To sum up, if you want a ruthless, bloodthirsty performer that will pop a wheelie if you sneeze, go for the KTM Duke 390. If you want a earth munching torque traveller that stands out, is composed and classy while going through the paces, the Royal Enfield Continental GT is for you.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-7803996052622268362013-11-21T19:12:00.002+05:302013-12-20T01:03:35.557+05:30Burn Another Day-Saving fuel isn't rocket science<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Making your car’s juice run for as long as possible is the need of the hour. Efficiency is king and had literally changed fuel loyalties/preference for people. Even a person with a 1000kms monthly running would opt for a diesel had it not been for the more expensive engine, not only because the fuel is cheaper but also because that one litre of diesel goes a longer way. You’ve seen the “<b>save fuel, yaani save money</b>” advertisements on TV and heard it on the radio, but under real world conditions; getting close to that company claimed mileage is nothing short of a miracle.<br />
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Here is a list of the little things you don’t realize you do while driving that eat into your fuel economy.<br />
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<b><u>1. Signal Racer:</u></b><br />
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You’re right up front at a signal that’s gone red. You’re a regular on the road so instead of waiting for the light to go green, you stare at the pedestrian signal. The moment you spot that little red man flashing the theme from The Fast & the Furious plays in your head and you gun it. After 4.5 seconds of adrenaline fueled happiness, lo and behold you’re at yet another signal where the 60 year old on a rickety old scooter has caught up to you. These short bursts waste fuel unnecessarily and don’t save you any time or cover more distance.<br />
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<b><u>2. The crawler:</u></b><br />
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Yes, traffic crawling is something that is hard to escape. More often than not you spend 10 minutes to get across 10 metres, but the constant tango between the clutch and accelerator results in heavy fuel consumption. Don’t move your car forward unless it looks like traffic ahead is shifting a reasonable amount.<br />
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<b><u>3. No lane loyalty:</u></b><br />
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Sticking to your lane is a simple rule that makes your life a lot easier and actually saves you fuel. Just think to yourself “How many times have a I shifted to a lane that was moving when mine wasn't, only to find that a car that was right behind me is now 3 cars ahead of me?” Constant lane shifting burns your fuel for the illusion of progress. You aren't getting to your destination and sooner, it slows traffic down even more and you just made your journey more expensive. There will be a point where your lane moves while the other doesn't, so stay where you are and avoid deviating unnecessarily.<br />
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<b><u>4. Under-shifting/over revving:</u></b><br />
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These two opposites of too conservative VS too impatient are equally bad. Shifting up a gear too soon just means that you will have to downshift again sooner while putting excessive pressure on your engine. Constant gear shifts mean your rpm is fluctuating too much, thereby burning more fuel.<br />
Over revving is just burning more fuel for no rhyme or reason. It’s a car’s equivalent of smoking i.e. spending money for absolutely no benefit. Don’t try and start off in 2nd gear by over revving the engine when your car clearly wants to be in a lower gear.<br />
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<b><u>5. Heavy Pedal Highways:</u></b><br />
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High speeds are the biggest temptress on the open road. However, one thing that truck drivers will tell you is “A person driving at 100kmh will reach his destination a maximum of 3-5 minutes earlier than a person driving at 60kmh”. Granted, in middle-eastern countries your average speed on arterial roads will be 100kmh, but in India you will be blocked by struggling trucks or jam the brakes because some moron is driving at 40kmh in the overtaking lane or not sticking to one lane at all or because a bad patch of road showed up out of nowhere which means constant accelerating and braking for no improvement in time saved or distance made.<br />
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So, literally you are driving the exact same way you do in bumper to bumper traffic, only at higher speeds. Try coasting to save your fuel. Instead of tailgating someone till they move, let go of the gas pedal early on. Your torque will take you ahead fast enough that braking won’t be necessary. Use your flasher to warn the driver ahead to get out of the way, so you can accelerate from a higher speed. Minimum rpm fluctuation ensures minimum fuel consumption.<br />
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These are just a few things that we involuntarily do. After all this is not just observation it is also personal experience that made me notice these things. It’s fine to indulge sometimes, but remember that there’s more to fuel economy than just driving slowly.<br />
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Here's some proof. By simply following the activities/rules mentioned above, I managed to milk 16.4kmpl from my 2011 Honda Jazz (powered by a 1.2-litre, 90 bhp petrol engine). A car that in regular city driving conditions managed 12kmpl at best when driven with an impatient foot.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-28914973690390620182013-10-27T17:19:00.003+05:302013-10-27T18:55:02.687+05:30Hybrids In India. Any Hope? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The concept of hybrid vehicles is not unheard of in India. The Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid being among the more popular ones, have not seen great numbers owing to their heavy pricing. When the Honda Civic Hybrid was available it was priced higher than the Honda Accord. Prices dropped down to around Rs. 16 lakh and the car saw a surge is enquiries and bookings, this price cut was however short lived. The Toyota Prius starts upwards of Rs. 30 lakh. Expecting someone to spend Mercedes money for a Japanese commuter car giant is a tall order, but there are a few who do opt for it. The fact is that the Prius does stand out, offers several features and lacks only the luxury brand badge. Perhaps it would fare better if it was badged as a Lexus.<br />
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Hybrids have special advantages over regular cars. They consume less fuel, cause less pollution and have the same functionality as a regular car. They also have privileges in certain European nations such as specialized parking and lower taxes on the greener cars, thereby encouraging people to buy them. It will be decades before hybrids are given any breaks over here as our taxation system is silly enough to levy taxes considering engine displacement, but growth is a process not an event. The Mahindra Scorpio comes with a micro hybrid. Essentially it’s just the engine start stop mechanism that puts the engine into sleep mode when the car idles for a preset amount of time and is deactivated when the clutch pedal is depressed.<br />
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A fairly common technology in today’s cars but it’s not an actual hybrid. So, the term hybrid has caught on, but will the concept of them being sold in volumes ever become a reality in India? The contributing factors have to be looked into in order to understand what has to be changed.<br />
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<b><u>1. Tax:</u></b><br />
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There is a need for special provisions to make hybrid cars more desirable. Cars are already heavily taxed in India, so if there were some exemptions made for hybrids, manufacturers would take the initiative automatically. An overall reduction in green house gas emission will result in a better carbon credit standpoint for the nation altogether. The fact that India's automotive industry is still growing, poses the best opportunity to sow the hybrid seed immediately.<br />
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<b><u>2. SKD/CKD/Complete production: </u></b><br />
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If hybrid cars were made in India the main issue of import duty would be eradicated. When a manufacturer doesn't see potential in a car, setting up a dedicated production/assembly line is not viable. They could save a lot of money by localizing operations and pass on the savings to potential buyers. This is however, most likely a secondary step after the want for hybrids is created, not so far fetched in a mileage hungry country. If India could be made and export hub for the same it would be a win-win-win situation.<br />
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<b><u>3. Technological Awareness:</u></b><br />
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For hybrids to work, people need to get familiarized with them. People do not accept what they do not understand. The introduction of more hybrids or hybrid related technology into existing car segments will make people recognize its potential. When they know what hybrid tech has to offer, they will be more willing to buy a green vehicle. Start stop technology has even made its way onto mass two-wheelers like the Hero Splendor i-Smart. The rate at which both the industry and its technology grows equates to widespread implementation. What is on a high end premium car today will make it's way into a regular vehicle tomorrow. So hybrids may not be a fad here like it is in the USA just yet, but the future will be more than promising.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-6001913511260107922013-10-26T12:21:00.000+05:302013-10-27T15:08:09.283+05:30The Diesel Torque Equation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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While most discussions regarding petrol VS diesels revolve around the actual price of each fuel and the mileage they deliver, this one’s a basic write up on why diesels have more torque. I won’t get into the technicalities of what torque is, but it’s basically the down-force of the piston movement. Just imagine a basketball being bounced. If you bounce it from your ankle level, you have to constantly bounce the ball to keep it in motion. The ball moves up and down faster, but if you were to stop applying effort the ball would stop bouncing almost instantly. Now bounce the ball from your waist level. You put in a little effort periodically.<br />
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The ball bounces up and down, but takes more time from floor to palm. The ball requires less effort to bounce, but if you stop applying any effort the ball will keep bouncing for a few more seconds. The latter is an example of high torque at low rpm. The bouncing ball is the piston’s stroke and with less energy required, it delivers the required power. A long stroke equates to more punch delivered per stroke, thereby delivering the required power at relatively lower rpms. Diesels are usually designed as long-stroke engines specifically to generate torque. This is why commercial vehicles like bulldozers and trucks run on diesel engines.<br />
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Some heavy-duty truck diesels operate at a maximum of only 2200 RPM! Lighter-duty truck diesels may redline at 3000 to 3500 RPM, and 4000 RPM is considered a "high-speed" diesel. Let's just summarize by saying that diesel engines are usually designed with as long a stroke as practical for the desired peak engine speed. Diesel fuel has about 11% more energy per litre than gasoline too, this is a contributing factor to why diesel is also more efficient a fuel than a gasoline.<br />
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Diesel fuel by itself has a higher flash point that gasoline, which is why diesel isn’t as easily flammable. Diesel engines use glow-plug as opposed to spark plugs. The glow plug heats up the air in the engine chamber when the diesel fuel is injected into the compressed air which is what causes the explosion that would be brought about by a spark plug in a petrol engine. The longer stroke delivers torque at lower rpms, but because of this each stroke takes longer to complete as well. So a diesel will manage 60 kph at a lower rpm level as compared to a petrol engine, but will take longer to reach that speed as well. This is why more and more diesels are offered with turbochargers as naturally aspirated diesels tend to be sluggish. Long stroke engines, a higher energy, less volatility fuel result in vehicles with more torque that are lower on emissions and manage a better fuel efficiency.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-47697339257065840212013-10-25T13:03:00.001+05:302013-10-25T13:03:29.147+05:30Rider Ramble #1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It’s the age old practice of two types of riders locking horns. One looks to get from traffic signal to traffic signal fast enough to make you believe he teleported, while the other is the rider who chooses odometer over speedometer. It’s low end torque delivery VS quick speed delivery and at least in India, people rarely look at the difference between the two types of motorcycle when they want to buy one. It is the reason why you can spot questions like “I have a budget of up to Rs. 1.8 lakh and am confused between the KTM Duke 200 and Royal Enfield Classic 500..”<br />
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The KTM is a short stroke, 0-60 marvel that can zip through traffic, pull off a stunt or ten and max out on the highways before you take your first smoke break. The Royal Enfield is a long stroke British Classic Tourer that can go on and on for kilometers before the rider loses sensation in his rear end. Despite both motorcycles being worlds apart, they land up getting compared because around here the price decides the segmentation rather that the technical specifications. The average rider profile will paint you a picture that will make you understand the buyer’s lifestyle. Most likely a college student or office goer who looks to hit the open roads every weekend or month end. Seeing how the true potential of either category of motorcycle is never done justice in the city, the question arises. Should you buy a street/sports bike or a cruiser? The more experienced riders will find this question laughable, but a few visits to buyer advice sections of magazines or forums will tell you that this confusion is prevalent.<br />
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Here’s summing up the basics that may help make an informed decision.<br />
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<u><b>Cruiser:</b></u><br />
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Longer stroke motorcycles that both accelerate and decelerate slowly. They have high torque delivery at low rpms making down-shifting a rarity. The problem is that they won’t be as agile as a street/sports bike. Zipping through traffic will take a little more effort. These bikes are generally more comfortable as they are meant for long distances as opposed to rapid acceleration. They are also good to manage in city. The more relaxed riding position also reduced your risk of back problems. If you are the guy who likes to go the distance as opposed to the 100km bullion run, go in for this category.<br />
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<u><b>Street/Sport</b></u><br />
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This is obviously the high selling category. Pulsar, Apache, Karizma, FZ, R15 are the household names. They’re fast, agile, zippy and manage a reasonable fuel economy. They’re also perfect for the quick spin to the closest tourist attraction. Short gear ratios result in fast acceleration, but also in a need for more frequent shifting. Motorcycles like the Honda CBR 250r require downshifting very often making it hard to manage in heavy traffic conditions and it does take some time getting used to. The best part about this category is the fact that you have a plethora of options. The variations within brands are so many that you’d be spoiled for choice.<br />
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Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about entry level cruisers. Bajaj has the Avenger and Royal Enfield has its entire range. Any other cruiser is either from a high end brand or was discontinued, case in point being the Enticer and Eliminator. This is the reason why Royal Enfield, a brand famous for manufacturing defects and high maintenance costs has managed to be the dominator in the cruiser/tourer range. Yes, it does have the legend status, but they are far from famous for their reliability. A want for long distance motorcycles with the lack of options narrows down the vehicles purchased.<br />
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These are just some thoughts I typed out after general observations. There are a lot more factors that go into the decision of buying a motorcycle. Use your best judgment, understand what kind of riding you will have and what type of rider you are and above all, never look back after you made the purchase.<br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-74994242658988370022013-10-12T13:07:00.003+05:302013-11-30T17:14:07.047+05:302010 Royal Enfield Thunderbird Twinspark<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Royal Enfield has come a long way from being on the verge of shutting down to struggling with the sheer amount of demand. All this change thanks to the Unit Construction Engine that turned the image of the brand in a different direction. The very first motorcycle to get the new heart was the Thunderbird. Replacing the 350cc AVL single-spark engine, arrived the UCE Twin-spark that started the process of making Royal Enfields faster, more efficient and above all easier to live with and the Thunderbird has really struck a chord with young buyer in particular. So is this machine a true cruiser or a Hardly Davidson?<br />
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<b><u>Design:</u></b><br />
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The Thunderbird has rather obvious design pros and cons. Overall the bike looks very well structured and everything is in perfect sync. For example the seat and panels are aligned magnificently and the streamlined design moves fluently throughout the body. However, the ICBM exhaust is excessively large. The tip of the exhaust is a good few inches ahead of the rear tyre, so parking the Thunderbird back-first may result in heart pinching knock on the exhaust. The backrest is solid and can be trusted not to break unlike many after-market backrests that non Thunderbird riders have to use. Apart from this the display has been orchestrated very well, but is illegible when hit by sunlight.<br />
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<b><u>Ride:</u></b><br />
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The Thunderbird is perfect for riders above the 6ft height mark. Raised handlebars, deep sunk-in and wide seating make it ideal for long rides. The 19 inch MRF Nylo Grips are surefooted and enable brilliant control, but a patch of water may be a little unnerving. Unfortunately the suspension is not perfect for city roads. The telescopic front forks are delicate and fork seal ruptures are to be expected while the twin gas charged shock absorbers at the back need to be adjusted a few notches to handle weight better. If rider and pillion are a bit on the heavier side, chances are the mud-guard and tyre will come in contact. The seats could use a little more padding. Since the suspension is a bit of a let-down, 2-3 hours of riding will have you doing a bit of yoga to gain sensation in your rear end.<br />
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<b><u>Performance:</u></b><br />
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The Thunderbird is fast and delivers the torque when needed. Peak power is at 19.8 BHP at 5250 rpm and maximum torque is 28 NM at 4000rpm. The revs are most comfortable at the 70 kmph mark. Reaching 120 kmph takes a while, but isn’t difficult. However, the vibrations are enough to register on the Richter scale and the balance goes off by quite a bit at high speeds. The occasional sprint on the highway is fine by the bird, but prolonged high speeds will not go down well with it and the bike will let you know. The brakes are perfect and works well at all speeds although the rear brake loosens up after every 80 kilometers or so. A 280mm front disk and a 150mm rear drum brake provide ample stopping power and are very reassuring.<br />
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All in all this is an ideal highway cruiser and maintains the Classic Royal Enfield essence while being a modern move for the oldest production motorcycle company in the world. The Thunderbird still faces a few manufacturing defects of a cable here and a wire there, but Royal Enfield has definitely given a boon to long distance riding and made a bike that is a better performer and a lot easier to live with. <br />
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-39092697100050268662013-10-03T19:17:00.000+05:302013-12-20T01:04:45.504+05:30Driving Bad: The cars in AMC’s cult show Breaking Bad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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If you were in contact with any form of popular media, there is no doubt that you have heard of Breaking Bad. The show about an over-qualified chemist who is diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer and uses his skills to cook crystal meth with a former student after finding out how much money there is in the drug business. What’s special about this show is that there is a symbolism to just about everything, including the cars. So let’s have a look at what the good, the bad and the druggy drive.<br />
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<u><b>1. Walter White/2004 Pontiac Aztec:</b></u><br />
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You don’t need a survey to tell you that this car is not a popular one in reality, despite its fame after it got the role of Walter White’s car. It met the bare minimum needs, has good potential as a family cross-over, but an eye-sore on the inside and out. Uninspired design meant that the Aztec would have to be a last resort purchase for most buyers, not to mention its placement in the “100 ugliest cars of all time” list by The Daily Telegraph. This makes it all the more hard to believe that the design was directed by the same person who went on to design the C7 Corvette. The Aztec is powered by a 3.4-litre petrol V6 engine that pumps out 185 BHP and 285 NM of torque. Not a great car, but its shortfalls reflected Walt as a person.<br />
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<b><u>2. Jesse Pinkman/1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (The Capn):</u></b><br />
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Just like the Toyota Hilux is called the “terrorist’s favorite pick-up”, the Chevrolet Monte Carlo has been stereotyped as the drug dealers choice like the Oldsmobile cutlass supreme. Jesse’s Monte Carlo is a lowrider and comes with the standard issue ‘gangsta’ colors and flash. The car came with 3.7-litre to 5.7-litre, V6 and V8 trims.<br />
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<b><u>3. Skyler White/1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer:</u></b><br />
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A stable, solid purpose built soccer mom car, the Grand Wagoneer sums up Skyler’s life at least until it gets affected by Walt’s criminal endeavors. The car was labeled a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) because it was literally a balance of performance and practicality. Oddly enough many engines on the car were sourced from car maker AMC (Same name as the host network of Breaking Bad) although the edition Skyler drives had a Chrysler V8.<br />
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<b><u>4. The Crystal Ship/1986 Fleetwood Bounder:</u></b><br />
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The one car that holds the highest relevance in the series. The car that helped Walt and Jesse start it all. The 1986 Fleetwood Bounder is the quintessential redneck motorhome. The RV had just the right amount of room for the lab to be set up and seemed harmless enough in its looks. The car summed up Jesse’s and Walt’s relationship, sometimes reliable and sometimes on the verge of breaking down.<br />
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<b><u>5. Gus Fring/1998 Volvo V70:</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeq3o5ATdkveJoFGk_sMU0NYmxAUtlybtIZYbsOpTLouEFgTneXO8X4EYfXkatUFvmbatu6skZe7UGtFQ4EdlHo8gK3Ptxm9fCwJqkyyOau_so8eX9psykZxnuMfWSSMoMC1P96qLutM/s1600/i294425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeq3o5ATdkveJoFGk_sMU0NYmxAUtlybtIZYbsOpTLouEFgTneXO8X4EYfXkatUFvmbatu6skZe7UGtFQ4EdlHo8gK3Ptxm9fCwJqkyyOau_so8eX9psykZxnuMfWSSMoMC1P96qLutM/s320/i294425.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
Probably the most recognizable Volvo. The car that gave Volvo the identity of a safe soccer mom brand, the V70 sums up Gustavo’s mindset. He wants to keep the lowest possible profile as being the owner of a multi-million dollar fast food chain attracts enough attention as it is. The V70 came with 2.0-litre to 2.4-litre petrol engines and a 2.5-litre diesel. Practical, economical and enough room for a dead body or two made this the ideal car for a low-profile drug lord.<br />
<br />
<b><u>6. Hank Schrader/2006 Jeep Commander:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSMxRqatVJ3pxQx-ocH-ktG53lvFc1k7AKTZy-uaog_7a930m3_i0Y1HKAPU8eDTM8xB3aBt0I5Ki4QqmJu0FcU877sv2Y8bKMwqMsAB4BxoPvyu5GEmIw5o1vOikqHjS70v9LgjbLgvk/s1600/i294409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSMxRqatVJ3pxQx-ocH-ktG53lvFc1k7AKTZy-uaog_7a930m3_i0Y1HKAPU8eDTM8xB3aBt0I5Ki4QqmJu0FcU877sv2Y8bKMwqMsAB4BxoPvyu5GEmIw5o1vOikqHjS70v9LgjbLgvk/s320/i294409.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
Sturdy, powerful and packs a heavy punch. Hank’s Jeep is the perfect extension of his personality, not to mention the fact that the name Commander goes well with a person in law enforcement. The Jeep Commander came in with a 3.7-litre V6 and a 4.7-litre V8 (Hank’s edition) offered with both 4x2 and 4x4 powertrains. <br />
<br />
<b><u>7. Marie Schrader/2008 VW Beetle:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzR5Ctoobgoh-WSgYVHd0pPJ-fsCa0XTD3foHM9w-5AUOYss0pZ9BzIAvMvucYl_JX9k8rXK0Ke-MUPHu5zZhyphenhyphenvFQgGYciFRtDobGArj_p3BKwBWipkQUOltikuP4INrNzFGXeQ-XbRE/s1600/i292228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzR5Ctoobgoh-WSgYVHd0pPJ-fsCa0XTD3foHM9w-5AUOYss0pZ9BzIAvMvucYl_JX9k8rXK0Ke-MUPHu5zZhyphenhyphenvFQgGYciFRtDobGArj_p3BKwBWipkQUOltikuP4INrNzFGXeQ-XbRE/s320/i292228.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
A legendary car that has the cute appeal to attract buyers who don’t really care about specifications or bang for buck. The Beetle is the perfect extension of Marie’s character who is rather self-indulgent. The car comes with a 2.5-litre in-line 5 cylinder engine that made it a good attention grabbing car that could fulfill the non-touchy female driver’s requirements.<br />
<br />
<b><u>8. Saul Goodman/1997 Cadillac DeVille:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhrCJWLKjXJzyxdRzhbUqw-0Znl_ItqWk0m9pgrisV9_HbEkPE69eF6VclaapUyuSoO7KpcU6PGwbnDtxFgPb_i4fyQumHrlQw4e3A3PIVhqbtnDhEyMSAM9FpJJFmZAVWuCkvDNuYaw/s1600/i303189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhrCJWLKjXJzyxdRzhbUqw-0Znl_ItqWk0m9pgrisV9_HbEkPE69eF6VclaapUyuSoO7KpcU6PGwbnDtxFgPb_i4fyQumHrlQw4e3A3PIVhqbtnDhEyMSAM9FpJJFmZAVWuCkvDNuYaw/s320/i303189.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
If you can imagine a politician driving one of these you can do the same for Saul Goodman. The car makes the statement of being a classic American car and disguises the shady lawyer that drives it very well. The car is powered by a 4.6-litre V8, an engine that has made its way on to many American cars including the Ford Crown Victoria and Mustang.<br />
<br />
<b><u>9. Mike Ehrmentraut/1988 Chrysler Fifth Avenue:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs5P27tXza_r2jDg_wtbHQCEOgTC0v8rzuWQ5XFHZk_zFxVO3fjFdZNepzEqQz0BvFDxJcMfsrkmA7nquxhTy8ZUypTlFbD9-HUjl6yqpV75JiRyMwS4qq8gQNVgEceT2Yt6p-hh2CMi0/s1600/i292080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs5P27tXza_r2jDg_wtbHQCEOgTC0v8rzuWQ5XFHZk_zFxVO3fjFdZNepzEqQz0BvFDxJcMfsrkmA7nquxhTy8ZUypTlFbD9-HUjl6yqpV75JiRyMwS4qq8gQNVgEceT2Yt6p-hh2CMi0/s320/i292080.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
Classic, sturdy and on some level had the same expression as Mike always did. It served well for a veteran hitman and was pretty much the definition of a no nonsense car. The Fifth Avenue was made with a 5.2-litre V8 that managed a measly 140 BHP. Sufficed to say, is endorses the “no replacement for displacement” ideology.<br />
<br />
<b><u>10. Heisenberg/2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
The 300 SRT8 is the successor of the 300C. The 6.4-litre V8 is the replacement of the last cog of Walter White i.e. his Pontiac Aztec. The car is his way of reaffirming his position as “The Cook”. The SRT8 is immensely powerful and can go head to head with cars like the Mercedes E63 AMG, although the German would probably perform better. Big engines may get you the goosebumps, but German engineering does much more.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5sfjtkdYD7mQgx1Mts2hVy8Bf96VZS92MOfHVqW7fTIe_NgkwSdu-FbQNFO_BBw5rb4OmYYttw4Lehm0_8LZIzvv7V14hFyYvNDBJ8cYCtmfvFmb3sYchPqAevIF-PFtoLuL26KysQQ/s1600/i538863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5sfjtkdYD7mQgx1Mts2hVy8Bf96VZS92MOfHVqW7fTIe_NgkwSdu-FbQNFO_BBw5rb4OmYYttw4Lehm0_8LZIzvv7V14hFyYvNDBJ8cYCtmfvFmb3sYchPqAevIF-PFtoLuL26KysQQ/s320/i538863.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<u><b>11. Flynn/2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8:</b></u><br />
<br />
A teenager who’s had to deal with a disability his entire life uses his dad’s new found money to fulfill some of his own brattish wants. The Challenger is Walt’s gift to his son simply because he can give it to him. The Chrysler PT Cruiser that Skyler got Flynn to keep a low profile is happily given away by father and son and they become something of a race team.<br />
<br />
<b><u>12. Jesse Pinkman/1986 Toyota Tercel Wagon:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk2iXZ2HReHvPfvp7znkX7hFfJDp8iL6lUA2q0_P5f5pFOXGm31Ny0j_l4oX6Pcz57222NScBj3BoKIbrFAZTLlx6lGF6H1fLEOEewdOaeWkVAdxD53_gKnw5xEP_LWeC5XKZwM3qfQs/s1600/i291226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk2iXZ2HReHvPfvp7znkX7hFfJDp8iL6lUA2q0_P5f5pFOXGm31Ny0j_l4oX6Pcz57222NScBj3BoKIbrFAZTLlx6lGF6H1fLEOEewdOaeWkVAdxD53_gKnw5xEP_LWeC5XKZwM3qfQs/s320/i291226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
After hitting rock-bottom Jesse turns into a person who values life more than money. The exact opposite of Walt’s alter ego. Jesse replaces his gunned down Monte Carlo with the Tercel which he bought from badger’s cousin.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
There are many other cars in the series such as Gretchen’s Bentley Continental GT, the ‘96 BMW 318i cabrio that Walt destroys with a squeegee, crazy-8’s Buick Regal, the 1977 Cadillac DeVille that turns into a tank in the finale and the ’91 Toyota Previa that the “vacuum cleaner” man uses to pick up his clients. All the cars used have a character of their own and were probably selected by a car casting director. This show may have become a legend because of its story-line, but you can never underestimate the difference each character's car makes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lNqUxnqncfDQNqp_wL_ZVjrTM4Iw_-MTuuEeN6B2oWizRD2z0zDol_CZAaT9j7hZV1eWzjkJN5MqCoKJoDR4Kbz2KJmgLq0lcxqKYUDfNZpIYP_1amI4FPX3IERuXQfy9T4C44nWw6o/s1600/i517100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lNqUxnqncfDQNqp_wL_ZVjrTM4Iw_-MTuuEeN6B2oWizRD2z0zDol_CZAaT9j7hZV1eWzjkJN5MqCoKJoDR4Kbz2KJmgLq0lcxqKYUDfNZpIYP_1amI4FPX3IERuXQfy9T4C44nWw6o/s320/i517100.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-2323309218416045782013-09-26T00:41:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:41:53.151+05:30Hyundai To Enter Hot-Hatch Segment With An i 20 GT?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A
car brand’s involvement in motorsport is always a reflection on what may be offered
on its road legal vehicles and Hyundai is no different. The Korean car maker
has drawn upon its recent announcement to enter the World Rally Championship
(WRC) and plans are on to produce an i 20 GT! WRC being the ideal cross-over of
performance and punishment seems to have encouraged the designers to develop a
passenger vehicle that shares its DNA with the performance bred rally cars.
Hopefully, the production car will be an amalgamation of performance and
rigidity to make it suitable for tough roads.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Volkswagen
has already capitalized on the lack of a complete hot-hatch segment through the
Polo GT TSI and recently launched GT TDI. Skoda on the other hand is unlikely
to introduce a vRS version on the temporarily discontinued Skoda Fabia, citing
issues of feasibility. The next generation Fabia is likely to have a model with
cosmetic alterations to make it look like the vRS. The market demand for a
small car with big performance is serving as the ideal opportunity for brands
to offer a more enjoyable driving experience without making buyers shell out ludicrous amounts of
money. However, what remains to be seen is if India will see a toned down
version of the i 20 GT in order to keep prices competitive. With Hyundai not
only manufacturing cars in India, but also exporting them, the car maker can
afford to be ambitious. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the moment the i 20 is on offer in petrol and diesel variants, the petrol
available with a 1.4-litre, 4-speed automatic as well. Details on the GT are
limited as the car is unlikely to make an appearance in India before 2015 and
the international launch is expected only in the last quarter of 2014. The i 20
made its arrival in 2009 and in the following years has only seen one facelift
without any major non-cosmetic changes. The sales of the i 20 may dip, with the
Grand i 10 bridging the gap between the i 10 and its older sibling. The Indian
hot-hatch segment is likely to see more new entrants with the market trend
reflecting the need for a performance vehicle with practicality.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyaKvaAwnQq8vmNHg0mmxtFGi3ym_iWZaGMnJgezsxY2FPOdNrpNw9-ExoNMLe5642z8RnPKGTi235K5q9f_Tx-gAVZxAxAKG45e312xi0JCHX9vx9DdJzptPN71XmZ6vu9-2wohbZO4/s1600/images+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyaKvaAwnQq8vmNHg0mmxtFGi3ym_iWZaGMnJgezsxY2FPOdNrpNw9-ExoNMLe5642z8RnPKGTi235K5q9f_Tx-gAVZxAxAKG45e312xi0JCHX9vx9DdJzptPN71XmZ6vu9-2wohbZO4/s1600/images+(2).jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-73406302722852434942013-09-26T00:37:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:37:33.157+05:30Mazda Contemplates India Return<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
India, the name Mazda was limited to bringing back memories of the Swaraj Mazda
commercial vehicles or Vin Diesel’s RX-7 in “The Fast and The Furious”. The
Japanese giant that was ranked 19<sup>th</sup> in the top 25 world car makers 2013,
could make a full-fledged return to India! This move has come in after Mazda
analyzed the subcontinent’s growing demand for passenger vehicles and hunger
for private sector foreign investment. Masamichi Kogai, president and CEO of
Mazda Motor Corp, has also hinted at using India as an export hub for the
brand. If Mazda does decide to begin production and sales operations in India
it will have models that would go head to head with multiple segment
dominators.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79cOkJMk1JVb29DFIy1O4qul6RCR5oN4IKaYSMcZfPuVu8PV4PcoRKuMbw7H16rgqqCHdzjCOeQnEAEQCtRZdzfiZEfknnQNPdfiO4vCC0RigfGZL7PzJMU5DKOEioOrqzC9l7-_ZmTc/s1600/images+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79cOkJMk1JVb29DFIy1O4qul6RCR5oN4IKaYSMcZfPuVu8PV4PcoRKuMbw7H16rgqqCHdzjCOeQnEAEQCtRZdzfiZEfknnQNPdfiO4vCC0RigfGZL7PzJMU5DKOEioOrqzC9l7-_ZmTc/s1600/images+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Currently
Mazda’s model range includes hatchbacks, sedans, estates, pick-up trucks, MPVs,
SUVs and sports cars, aside from their commercial vehicle range. The models
that could be making their way here initially would ideally be the Mazda-2
hatchback, the Mazda-3 hatchback and compact sedan which could be priced from
Rs. 4-6 lakh and Rs. 7-10 lakh respectively. They could also bring in the
Mazda-6 that would go head to head other D-segment vehicles and may cost
anywhere from Rs. 14-16 lakh. Mazda has made an impact globally, especially
after their design cues turned radical and distinctive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Mazda
currently manages 80% of its exports from Japan itself and plans to open a new
plant near Mexico City, Mexico. The new plant will help improve the brands
supply to North America i.e. its biggest market and will focus on the Mazda-2
and Mazda-3 which are currently its best sellers. Mazda’s previous venture with
Swaraj to produce trucks had seen a dismal reaction and ended in March 2007, as
it lacked extensive marketing and brands like Tata enjoyed more loyalty. India
being the world’s 6<sup>th</sup> largest automotive production hub could see
Mazda making a comeback. An ever expanding economic base would hopefully push
Mazda to bring its passenger and commercial vehicle range to our shores as
well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-34562210318799959552013-09-26T00:35:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:35:57.759+05:30Renault Arrives In Indonesia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8UVNuLMl2I5CHDwmFH3TNL9wvYTrqZLxA2xOtDazLiR7fHUY6Wlx6eVu46JqA-SqSeMPj36OmSgcyjni7ySgpEleliKPYKWYFooGg6-ugKNmRV956EI9i1Wd50Skz53DSY4scaXO2zg/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8UVNuLMl2I5CHDwmFH3TNL9wvYTrqZLxA2xOtDazLiR7fHUY6Wlx6eVu46JqA-SqSeMPj36OmSgcyjni7ySgpEleliKPYKWYFooGg6-ugKNmRV956EI9i1Wd50Skz53DSY4scaXO2zg/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">French car maker Renault made
its entry into the Indonesian car market. The company has decided to make its
entry with none other than the Duster. Renault’s entry into the Indonesian
market is a partnership with multi-brand car importer Indomobil that currently
deals in passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and even Suzuki two-wheelers.
Renault hopes to replicate the success the Duster had in India and plans to
have the crossover locally assembled in Indonesia. The Duster has been launched
with a 1.5-litre dCi engine that produced 83 HP. Renault plans to build its
market reputation by offering more powerful variants, including the petrol
editions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The Koleos and Megane will
also be launched soon giving the indication that Renault intends to cover both
the premium and regular passenger vehicles segment. Currently Renault offers
both the Duster and Koleos in India. The Duster has seen an overwhelming
response from buyers as its price point struck a positive chord. The Koleos
hasn’t seen a similar response as it is available only in one trim (2.0-litre
automatic diesel) and is overshadowed by competitors like the Toyota Fortuner
and SsangYong Rexton. However, Renault’s decision to launch the Megane in
Indonesia may be a reason for Indian buyers to smile, as it could make its way
here as well depending on the reaction it receives in Indonesia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The middle class in Indonesia
has expanded, resulting in a rise in demand and growth in the automotive sector.
A gradually widening economic base has made it a target for several car makers
and Renault seems to be the first of many. The Duster is available at a price
of 239 million Indonesian Rupiah (approximately INR 13 lakh). With more models
on the way from Renault in Indonesia, there is more good news for India as
there will be higher exports from its plant in Chennai. The partnership with
automotive giant Indomobil will enable Renault to expand rapidly and use its
network extensively. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-19215771922034097872013-09-26T00:34:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:34:51.927+05:30Suzuki To Make India The Swift Hub<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of Japan’s largest car makers has decided to shift production of the
internationally popular Swift to India. Maruti Suzuki’s manufacturing plant in Haryana
is currently producing 14,000 units of the Swift every month while it has a
capacity of producing 17,000 units. With the domestic demand restricting the
scale of production, the remaining capacity will be dedicated towards exports
to International markets. The Manesar plant has begun manufacturing units that
are dedicated to the Latin American, West Asian and African markets. All these
markets received their supply from the domestic plants in Japan as they are all
LHD nations.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlC0l1Zm-DJ0Gkf8vn2_cSENyuZMVx3BtVOaScHRKYUJAw4wgi4RtSqSNR2vtQKrl1avtSterSgjyLsNxgQJLZcCJutKuH7QhofEa7jMPAoMNx-FVoMHr-lC4kTj7i-yMlaXlx7JTrK7g/s1600/swift-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlC0l1Zm-DJ0Gkf8vn2_cSENyuZMVx3BtVOaScHRKYUJAw4wgi4RtSqSNR2vtQKrl1avtSterSgjyLsNxgQJLZcCJutKuH7QhofEa7jMPAoMNx-FVoMHr-lC4kTj7i-yMlaXlx7JTrK7g/s320/swift-big.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">However,
now that the plant in India has acquired the necessary facilities to manufacture
both left and right hand drive vehicles, Suzuki Motor Corporation has decided
to begin expanding operations in India. Aside from the plant’s capability to
cater to multiple nationalities, the decision is supported by the fact that
India had proved to be an outsourcing hub. The fact that manufacturing in India
is cost effective has led Suzuki to look at India as both a buyer and a
producer. Plans are also on to shift from CKDs to CBUs for markets like
Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia in order to improve profitability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
operations moving to Manesar provides good news on multiple levels. The shift
will generate more employment at the plant and also assist the brand in the
European market. The only LHD Swift producing plants were the ones in Japan and
Hungary and with this move, Suzuki could improve its expansion plans in the
region. Currently the Swift is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.3-litre
diesel in India while the larger 1.4-litre petrol is made in Japan. What’s more
is that if Suzuki adds to its existing operations in India we could see more
models being not only produced, but also sold here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-58280774297611239242013-09-26T00:31:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:31:18.133+05:30Isuzu Launches The 2013 D-max In The Philippines: <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Japanese
commercial and SUV maker Isuzu has launched the much awaited 2013 Isuzu D-Max
in the Philippines. The pickup truck that has been in production since 2002 has
been launched in the island nation with the promise of offering a vehicle that
adheres to global standards of excellence. The tough truck shares its platform
with pickups from Chevrolet and GMC and the latest edition promises to not only
be larger, but also of a tougher and sleeker build that has even undergone wind
tunnel testing at the same centre as Japan’s bullet trains i.e. the Japan
Railway Research Institute.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhvRplnYnLT_uzYs6xyNq6TzT7OhAZxRFiwrl-68ZHWE8I3Cn3azGl7_k9nuvbWvaO_LeqdWWnI6_QwmQbdUhHDb21aJRk34Gm_bMVbXY6iy6GGBxUFdx0-UR2QXLWcU35jfVS78bfzc/s1600/lightbox-img-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhvRplnYnLT_uzYs6xyNq6TzT7OhAZxRFiwrl-68ZHWE8I3Cn3azGl7_k9nuvbWvaO_LeqdWWnI6_QwmQbdUhHDb21aJRk34Gm_bMVbXY6iy6GGBxUFdx0-UR2QXLWcU35jfVS78bfzc/s320/lightbox-img-01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
company claims the D-Max has one of the lowest drag coefficients in its segment
enabling it to deliver higher fuel efficiency. The truck is available in both
4X4 and 4X2 powertrains and 5-speed automatic and manual transmissions. It is
offered with two engine trims. A 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel that pumps out a
peak power of 146Ps and 294Nm of torque. The base LT 4X2 variant comes with a
2.5-litre turbocharged Common Rail Diesel Injection (CRDi) engine that produces
a peak power of 109Ps and 280Nm of torque. The D-Max also offers a Terrain
Command Dial that can make the car switch from 4X4 to 4X2 and vice-versa at
speeds as high as 100 kmh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Prices
start at P 697,000 (approximately INR 10 lakh) for the base single cab 4X2 and
go up to P 1,457,000 (approximately INR 21 lakh) for the top end LS 4X4
automatic. Isuzu offers a range of safety features such as side impact beams, 2
front airbags, Emergency Locking Retractors, ABS, EBD and BA. With a new audio
system that features a 2-DIN CD/MP3/USB/AUX/Tuner with Bluetooth connectivity
and a six way speaker system, Isuzu hopes to market the D-Max as a tough
commercial off-roader and an everyday car. The car is available from September
18th, 2013 and will be locally assembled at Isuzu Philippines Corporations
plant in Laguna Technopark, Binan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-22266309665100178772013-09-26T00:12:00.003+05:302013-09-26T00:15:07.688+05:30Skoda says goodbye to the Fabia vRS<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Skoda recently discontinued its premium hatchback, the Skoda Fabia owing to poor sales figures. Now it has announced that the vRS Fabia will be discontinued as well. The decision came in as the hot hatch was suffering the same fate globally as the regular Fabia did in India. The next generation of the Skoda Fabia is due to come out in 2014 and the Czech car maker has confirmed that the next generation will no longer feature a vRS edition. The current model is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine that pumps out an impressive 176 bhp and 250nm of torque.<br />
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Skoda CEO Winfried Vahland stated that the reason behind this decision is a lack of market penetration by the Fabia vRS. “With the Octavia vRS we made around an eight percent penetration into the market. With the Fabia vRS, it was less than one percent.” Essentially people wanted the looks of the vRS with the practicality of a normal hatch. This was where the Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo was introduced and it saw production numbers of twenty thousand units when Skoda had estimated the demand to be a little over than three thousand units.<br />
<br />
The hot hatch market includes big players like the Fiat Punto Abarth, Suzuki Swift Sport and the Ford Fiesta Ecoboost. The Fabia vRS despite being a major player in the segment could not bring in the numbers in its sales the way it did on the spec sheet. Skoda has no plans for a replacement, but plans to introduce a larger SUV to its range. Currently, Skoda only offers the Yeti in the SUV segment, but at a length of 422cms it isn’t a lot larger than a hatchback although it has surprising off-roading abilities. Sadly Skoda must bid adieu to the Fabia Vrs, but existing drivers will continue to reap the benefits of owning a brilliant performance hatchback.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPObzQqreLNTMwWXD3T8G5c7aoeNyfCnMPan7999j43H_q1Cf16YjQL8h8PjdvXs3H8O4ZiIa-hGD7n7ovK33zlnTFNIuvG4bV0v43HLctHtYZ4x7WwLtvzDxme4fg5NiKUfV08P-LdY/s1600/2011_Skoda-_Fabia_RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPObzQqreLNTMwWXD3T8G5c7aoeNyfCnMPan7999j43H_q1Cf16YjQL8h8PjdvXs3H8O4ZiIa-hGD7n7ovK33zlnTFNIuvG4bV0v43HLctHtYZ4x7WwLtvzDxme4fg5NiKUfV08P-LdY/s320/2011_Skoda-_Fabia_RS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Read the article on MotorBeam:<br />
<a href="http://www.motorbeam.com/cars/skoda-fabia-cars/skoda-fabia-vrs-discontinued-no-replacement-planned/">http://www.motorbeam.com/cars/skoda-fabia-cars/skoda-fabia-vrs-discontinued-no-replacement-planned/</a></div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-61424520394849451562013-09-25T20:00:00.001+05:302013-09-26T00:47:40.123+05:30Am”bye”ssador?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hindustan motors can pride itself in being the oldest and one of the most iconic car brands in India, the most iconic car of which is the Ambassador. The machine that is still called the “Indian Hummer” has become a car that is associated with taxis or ministry vehicles. Recently they launched the Ambassador Encore and it has many people wondering if the company should have even bothered making new car. It’s one thing to make the car look the exact same with the exception of a curve here and a cut there, but it’s a step back for the old chugger to have nothing that would appeal to a reasonable buyer today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0UiRleJI1Vo_eQfsxoCA-kBw0CV5zK7O9c6mHmPYVkfeSrk2HSdpVZKE1EMA1FNeX4Yj7D1tNMLlzeYkDeX7YOVpAqlRc3Fwdln7Od8sMh_djCSgbPaOQnmufIr6ilYB55td_xIEAcE/s1600/1233521_590836924296410_616928293_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0UiRleJI1Vo_eQfsxoCA-kBw0CV5zK7O9c6mHmPYVkfeSrk2HSdpVZKE1EMA1FNeX4Yj7D1tNMLlzeYkDeX7YOVpAqlRc3Fwdln7Od8sMh_djCSgbPaOQnmufIr6ilYB55td_xIEAcE/s320/1233521_590836924296410_616928293_n.jpg" width="320" /></a> Image Source: Team-BHP.com</div>
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First off let’s have a look at the price. The Encore costs Rs 4.98 lakh ex-showroom which will amount to an average of nearly Rs 5.50 lakh on road. At that price you could have anything from a Hyundai i10 to a Tata Indigo eCS. All cars that are just as easy to maintain, better to look at, are lighter and would outperform the HM legend. The Ambassador Encore is powered by a 1489cc, 4-cylinder, diesel engine which is BS4 compliant. The peak power output is an embarrassing 49 BHP and 112.5 Nm of torque. The BS3 model is even worse with a power output of 35.5 BHP and 73 Nm of torque. Granted that the target audience doesn't care about performance, but would it really cost the company so much more to make a well engineered car?<br />
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Performance like this was great during Fred Flintstones days, but in 2013 it is an abomination. For a brand that also sells Mitsubishi, it seems that HM has learnt nothing in terms of performance or features. Power windows and power steering are among the “best” features that the car offers and the brochure actually includes the mobile charger as a feature. Hindustan Motors calls the Ambassador simple, authentic and timeless, but if this is the way they plan to continue they may run out of time. If you do want the legendary Ambassador, why not look out for the original one? Retro does not mean that a car should offer only old day amenities and if the brand does not open its mind it may have to close its shutters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFdX5FKdGGVEjs5lhSG9Y659aTGIY8GITSfWIIw9rrxGhTWKGdHN9n3p-MN6L18WfJOJOJnlPK5JpjWKKf55tJfDLZgoP6wO_ynAe8rXY99krrMwm7oLFCrAp6kQQPc5ztzyWDcuHRAA/s1600/555150_183110951836169_2092544611_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFdX5FKdGGVEjs5lhSG9Y659aTGIY8GITSfWIIw9rrxGhTWKGdHN9n3p-MN6L18WfJOJOJnlPK5JpjWKKf55tJfDLZgoP6wO_ynAe8rXY99krrMwm7oLFCrAp6kQQPc5ztzyWDcuHRAA/s320/555150_183110951836169_2092544611_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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-- A DC design concept for the Ambassador.<br />
Mini-Cooper much?</div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-38348407573100370702013-09-22T18:19:00.000+05:302013-09-26T14:19:27.777+05:30Ferraris Will Go Turbo With Future Models<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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F 12 Berlinetta, 458 Italia, FF, California. All Ferraris,
all incredibly expensive, all incredibly fast and all naturally aspirated.
Despite not having a turbo to give their cars a hefty boost, Ferrari has managed
to bring out some of the most amazing performers that money can buy today.
However, tightening emission norms, high gas prices and tax on fuel guzzling
vehicles has made Ferrari join the engine downsizing bandwagon. All future
Ferraris could be made with smaller turbo-charged engines. Several exotic car makers
are not only downsizing their engines, but are also making high speed hybrids
in order to make them greener.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4uoJf2H8jUAdzBdBOU8YYOKSTupdqxBUnSQjRgQiAoHLpOM-BACdpGCcEdVW-6jcZqhsVBPxGEj9TLKWsZdmGw7Qtxyzbr-nq2kertDVEDliFwzdjokqta1sfNrC3csejgs55OOHek8/s1600/2011-Ferrari-World-Design-Contest-Eternita-by-University-of-Hongik-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4uoJf2H8jUAdzBdBOU8YYOKSTupdqxBUnSQjRgQiAoHLpOM-BACdpGCcEdVW-6jcZqhsVBPxGEj9TLKWsZdmGw7Qtxyzbr-nq2kertDVEDliFwzdjokqta1sfNrC3csejgs55OOHek8/s320/2011-Ferrari-World-Design-Contest-Eternita-by-University-of-Hongik-1.jpg" width="320" /> Image source: trendzcar.com</a></div>
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Due to the recent alternations in norms, even F1 cars
require 1.6-litre turbocharged engines much to the annoyance of many
petrol-heads who believe the 2.4-litre V8 was small enough. Ferrari engine
characteristic was molded greatly by the fact that the engines were naturally
aspirated. Anyone who has driven a Ferrari or even seen a video of one being
driven from the inside would know how much the Italian speed demon loves the
red-line. The introduction of a turbo could mean that V12 engines are moving
closer towards their demise. With large, raw and more crude engines making way
for well refined and more frugal engines, many are asking if supercars will
start losing out on their individualistic character.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Ferrari F40 that was at one point the fastest and most
expensive Ferrari sold in the late 1980’s, featured a 3.0-litre twin turbo.
However, the 4.7-litre V12 F50 had better emotional appeal to Ferrari loyalists who were also hooked by the fact that less than 350 were produced,. Rest assured it is a
guarantee that the Italian stallion will continue to make the most reputable
cars to ply the roads. What remains to be seen is, if the introduction of the
turbo will have an impact on the driving experience that the future models will
offer and if Ferrari will just make fast cars or fast cars with character.</div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-43083781054131456152013-09-22T18:07:00.000+05:302013-09-26T00:25:49.563+05:30Big German Trio Win With Small Cars<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQ5BQZ8XHKXWms9-ConoVyHD1TjQLTrXOAq4HxkKGwjrqzvZcM9fYvTxzDCqX0dqHguFqzvn2mn_KdsG7kPKmGWqbfVj8NP7fVO88Wn5yLrihrE4tI6iEUfFHrGUSasylTdRiZAbcUek/s1600/DTM+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQ5BQZ8XHKXWms9-ConoVyHD1TjQLTrXOAq4HxkKGwjrqzvZcM9fYvTxzDCqX0dqHguFqzvn2mn_KdsG7kPKmGWqbfVj8NP7fVO88Wn5yLrihrE4tI6iEUfFHrGUSasylTdRiZAbcUek/s320/DTM+2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
big German three have eaten into the sales of mass market brands by introducing
more small cars with their insignia. For the first time ever BMW surpassed Fiat
in its European sales. The emerging trend of buying small cars from premium
brands has seen luxury car makers experiencing a boost in demand. In the six
year European auto sales downturn brands like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz saw 0.5-2%
growth in sales while mass market car makers like Ford and Peugeot saw a market
share loss of 2 percentage points.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A
larger number of buyers are now ready to shell out over 4000 Euros more to buy
a small car from the German big three, instead of a mass market brand. For
instance, Mercedes Benz offers its cheapest and smallest car, the A-class for
nearly 25,000 Euros while the Volkswagen Golf is available for just under
17,000 euros. It is evident that buyers are looking to splurge a little bit
more if they can get the right logo on their car. Attractive leasing schemes
have baited buyers towards luxury brands and have made premium brands more
accessible to prospective customers. A motorist could lease a BMW 1-series for
330 Euros, a mere 15 Euros more than the lease rate for an Opel Astra. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Daimler
CEO Dieter Zetsche even stated that despite adding a new production line in
Hungary, Mercedes continues to struggle keeping up with the demand for its
small cars. The reflection of this growth can be seen in India as well, with
Mercedes already having launched its A-Class and B-Class hatch-backs, with the
CLA on its way here soon. BMW also recently launched the 1-series and Audi
could bring in the A1 hatch-back and A3 compact saloon which has already been
spied testing on Indian roads. With road congestion reaching new levels across
the globe, people are looking to spend sedan money on premium brand
hatches and compact saloons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-79641358773816609232013-09-21T12:11:00.001+05:302013-09-21T12:20:14.859+05:30Ford EcoSport European Debut Delayed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
only Ford in India that shook the market like the Ikon is expected to stay away
from Europe for a little bit longer. In March 2013, Ford declared that the
EcoSport would be available across Europe by the end of the year. However, it
seems the American car maker will be going with a very conservative approach at
first. Ford plan to offer only 500 units in Q1-2014, 120 of which have been
allocated to Britain. They will supply the small SUV in entirety, around Q2-2014.
The EcoSport has worked wonders for Ford in the Indian market and seeing how
European nations pose a good market for compact cars, Ford is hoping to see a
similar response.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">With
great demand comes a great need for added productivity. Due to the overwhelming
reaction the EcoSport received, Ford is working hard to keep up with the demand
as its plant in Chennai has been struggling to lower waiting periods. In
August, bookings for the car had been temporarily put on hold as the backlog
had resulted in customers having to wait for as much as eight months with
variant availability differing from dealership to dealership. Ford showrooms
have since resumed regular bookings, but demand for the Renault Duster’s arch
rival continues to be optimistic. This positive response could be the cause for
the EcoSport’s delayed debut in Europe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Both
LHD and RHD EcoSports will be sourced from Ford’s plant in Chennai. Currently
the car is manufactured in China, Brazil, Russia, and India, is expected to
begin local production in Thailand before 2014. The EcoSport will most likely
be offered with a 1.0-litre petrol Ecoboost, 1.5-litre diesel and petrol
engines as well in the European Union. The 500 limited edition EcoSports that
will be sold in the first quarter of 2014 could serve as a “beta testing”
exercise for Ford, although with the response it has received thus far it might
be safe to say Ford will be pleasantly un-surprised. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-37361604401339647542013-09-21T12:06:00.002+05:302013-09-21T12:20:14.858+05:30Car Price And The Government’s Slice<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Unless
you have been living in a cave for the last decade or so, you know that buying
a car in India is an expensive affair. The expense associated with the running
our cars is in a league of its own as fuel prices climb faster than a Mustang’s
rpm gauge. What’s astounding to know is the actual amount you’re paying the
government alone when you buy a car. In the last budget it was announced that
luxury imported vehicles, SUVs and motorcycles above the 800cc engine displacement
mark would face heavier taxation among others. What most car buyers don’t know
is the existing amount paid by them is already serving as a major revenue
source for the government.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
tax levied on the ex-showroom price of a small diesel car is 63% while it is
58% for a small petrol car. Enter higher segments and 86% of a diesel sedan’s
price is tax alone! The general market vibe was one of more relaxed government
involvement, but the reality is that buyers pay more now than they did in the
90’s when the taxation was up to 60% of the base price. The fact that a
customer can buy a Mercedes C-Class for the price of a Honda Civic in the
middle-east, illustrates just how much money is being directed to the
government treasury from the automotive industry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Central
government tax, excise duty, education cess, national calamity contingency
duty, road tax, VAT and octroi are seen as mere formalities that one has to pay
up for in order to purchase a car. However, when you put them all together the
amount paid to the government can be up to 90% of the car’s base price. The
government has often defended taxation on vehicles as a tactic to deter private
transport, but there is a question that most motorists will ask. Why is that
tax money not being used to improve the standards of the roads?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3690418532758615519.post-53554182674438352062013-09-16T13:35:00.003+05:302013-09-18T18:30:12.874+05:30Forgotten Factors<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Selling cars these days has
become like a morning routine for salesmen. You see a customer tell him about
the price, fuel economy, take him for a test drive that lasts as long a 4 year
olds attention span and then floor him with the amazing gifts, “free” insurance
and “limited period” discounts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Buyers need a car that will
get them and their family from point A to B while consuming as little fuel as
possible. You would be surprised at the number of high end cars that have CNG
kits hidden away like pimples. One fact that most salespersons will agree upon
is that safety rarely features as a priority to a prospect. There’s a reason
why every billboard and spec sheet has fuel economy figure printed like a badge
of honor and the word “best in class” tossed around like salad, but none ever
says “best in class safety” as that is seen as more of a luxury than a necessity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Which is what brings me to
the issue at hand. This is a piece about the factors that people turn a blind
eye towards while buying a car. The factors that you only consider when it’s
too late.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">1. <u>Build Quality</u></span></b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Before I go on to explain how
important it is to consider this, have a look at the images below:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyEgTw4P4J2B0ZfyZenX0TQ7eS_TeCrvrSM-dztoO86OYDyjPRKZftcld006NPQka664aE46qXg6Clnv8q3B06S_8BsBoZbqf9LOMbk7WrN-yCi4Zw_Yqz4gWIR6c4gpibUcW8xmzfFg/s1600/IMG-20130725-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyEgTw4P4J2B0ZfyZenX0TQ7eS_TeCrvrSM-dztoO86OYDyjPRKZftcld006NPQka664aE46qXg6Clnv8q3B06S_8BsBoZbqf9LOMbk7WrN-yCi4Zw_Yqz4gWIR6c4gpibUcW8xmzfFg/s320/IMG-20130725-WA0005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAki7o4rrdpPXBzfyqCbt_haSjaH530h3EGMPG2SrG6hpHJqOqV7ZbUfKVOSW5LroVWX44Ur40MTrUwElMPGx-bF1gHo-zDeGWJbhhiVpcQ06IJeOZNJEFGGx9JRI6FISq-4RhNt0Epjg/s1600/IMG-20130725-WA0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAki7o4rrdpPXBzfyqCbt_haSjaH530h3EGMPG2SrG6hpHJqOqV7ZbUfKVOSW5LroVWX44Ur40MTrUwElMPGx-bF1gHo-zDeGWJbhhiVpcQ06IJeOZNJEFGGx9JRI6FISq-4RhNt0Epjg/s320/IMG-20130725-WA0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmEKWXK2HZwRirLK6DLhFtZWhPkkINCfAHfT1DmbEiI6w6D28BHG7GkwzN1ttoGG0dCDQexdOwMJyc0ZmPhOlJr7i2bTmAgQ9P90qFQpJwI8D_Blg7aWv6juIMP_GDuKGjfbg4oNOPqQ/s1600/IMG-20130725-WA0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmEKWXK2HZwRirLK6DLhFtZWhPkkINCfAHfT1DmbEiI6w6D28BHG7GkwzN1ttoGG0dCDQexdOwMJyc0ZmPhOlJr7i2bTmAgQ9P90qFQpJwI8D_Blg7aWv6juIMP_GDuKGjfbg4oNOPqQ/s320/IMG-20130725-WA0008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFMKygUdSNT8VVGVcppGslhmM2g0dIfLxg7zwCHhdnNJAA7x4flRiehunVZXuwLm8XMK-MiipQBOvaY_go_MM1lMk_X7GicaG6RTRtDVdcJ71b56PfwuiLBmiNskpKIQEXhuebiVUA4Q/s1600/IMG-20130725-WA0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFMKygUdSNT8VVGVcppGslhmM2g0dIfLxg7zwCHhdnNJAA7x4flRiehunVZXuwLm8XMK-MiipQBOvaY_go_MM1lMk_X7GicaG6RTRtDVdcJ71b56PfwuiLBmiNskpKIQEXhuebiVUA4Q/s320/IMG-20130725-WA0009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoC6F3OS6hsURzOT8PeL7UstKKZYFUO32Wafhymhv8jVtXp_IlsR22UDjy_C_HbdEiq-1KUHQXIwh8sGwPGeAi5_mvXngUACkVOsbm0bWS1cYfOWy0t2Zgg5INmVvj2MvUTKfGOBfWwf4/s1600/IMG-20130725-WA0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoC6F3OS6hsURzOT8PeL7UstKKZYFUO32Wafhymhv8jVtXp_IlsR22UDjy_C_HbdEiq-1KUHQXIwh8sGwPGeAi5_mvXngUACkVOsbm0bWS1cYfOWy0t2Zgg5INmVvj2MvUTKfGOBfWwf4/s320/IMG-20130725-WA0010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span id="goog_1601466848"></span><span id="goog_1601466849"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The Volkswagen Polo was
travelling at an average speed when a bad patch of road caused the tyre burst
resulting in the car toppling over multiple times. Looking at the damage
sustained it’s hard to imagine that both passengers got away with nothing but a
few scratches. Analyzing the damage closely will show you that thanks to Volkswagen’s
international standard build quality the damage was veered away from the main
passenger cabin keeping them safe. This is where terms like “crumple zone” come
into play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Now have a look at this crash
test of the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, one of the highest selling cars in the
country today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l8K24ws_nQ"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l8K24ws_nQ</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Evidently the king of
efficiency wouldn’t save its people if it crashed. The entire body caved in
like someone crushed a piece of paper to throw into the dust-bin while bored at
work. Not so much fun when you’re the thing being thrown. This lack of build
quality is what puts the lives of its passengers is serious danger. Just
imagine if the people who were in the Polo were in the Alto. The outcome would
be a lot worse than having to worry about an insurance claim.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">2. <u>Safety features:<o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">ABS, EBD, ESP are seen as
just a bunch of abbreviations that make you pay more. It's high time to recognize the importance of safety features in the
car you buy. A bare minimum of ABS and airbags go a long way in ensuring a
sensible purchase, in fact in many countries they are mandatory by law for manufacturers. Indian road conditions and driving standards
are at an all-time low and dropping, while the number of motorists is climbing.
Since the country’s focus is on getting people cars rather than getting them
into safe ones it’s up to the buyers themselves to take the right decision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRguTa350qVZt1WdNM-7paiikdW9yl3mVOHxpFp7H0j2szSMizgP4lFEqTu5_GvfOAtC__u2zOJ3ZvOAExPFMEQm7k0jUbBwTqxNeqPmvwclS12fkuiFNkBLv__bQbJSzUKNqkgnoi0ho/s1600/ABS+on+and+off.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRguTa350qVZt1WdNM-7paiikdW9yl3mVOHxpFp7H0j2szSMizgP4lFEqTu5_GvfOAtC__u2zOJ3ZvOAExPFMEQm7k0jUbBwTqxNeqPmvwclS12fkuiFNkBLv__bQbJSzUKNqkgnoi0ho/s320/ABS+on+and+off.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">An accident doesn’t have to
be your fault. All it takes is one rash youngster trying to impress his
friends, a drunk driver or even an innocent motorist who instinctively swerved
to avoid a crater on the road, but didn’t see a car in the lane next to him.
You can expect your car to do 0-60 in 7 seconds, you can expect it deliver 15
kilometers to the litre, but accidents are something you can never see coming
and don’t come with an ARAI certification.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This is why your build
quality and safety features are like pants you wore when you were fat. You hope
you never have to use them again, but you’re glad to know they’re there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">3. <u>Ground Clearance:</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s face it. Unless you’re
in a purpose built sports car your undercarriage doesn’t need to flirt with the
road like Pepe Le Pew, no matter how sporty it may make the car look. Try and
look out for a car that has enough ground clearance depending on the locality
that you drive in. This is one factor where your type of driving must be
reflected in your test drive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9CFGUFX76ZVqzr1RgcmrSiX-vxkuOQFzrb-XZ7KFhIpr1XXdslOnLfLF2cY5RuW7RfXVTIefUiUb9pFcS-cu8kH3hMfj28SBC-olJUnU_oUCWtnzCRgKcQaJgH0b1O1xE3ezRGZzyw-4/s1600/PA191928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9CFGUFX76ZVqzr1RgcmrSiX-vxkuOQFzrb-XZ7KFhIpr1XXdslOnLfLF2cY5RuW7RfXVTIefUiUb9pFcS-cu8kH3hMfj28SBC-olJUnU_oUCWtnzCRgKcQaJgH0b1O1xE3ezRGZzyw-4/s320/PA191928.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">If you plan to have your
family or friends along often make sure you take them along to see how the car
handles when packed. This is how you can know how hard or soft your suspension
is, if the car struggles or strives when put under a heavy pay-load and if the
car rides high enough. It’s not a deal breaker, but can save you a lot of
grief. The sound of your bumper giving a high-five to a speed bump is quite
heartbreaking.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">4. <u>Post- Sale Follow up:</u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Researching on your treatment
after you’ve bought the car matters a great deal. People have often sold their
vehicles after being given sub-standard service repeatedly. Have a look online
at different forums to see if customers are getting their money’s worth. Better
yet, go on to the brand’s Facebook page. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RycbvpJgu1IeHfdODomYZ4MXKeyYULmD3FnQOvPMFmCnuPDOmIJ6ncD25NzrLUWktYtVH5gydkCSNRyRChlpxVhZi3J_9OJQPqDcVGqVJzLmmecJGMibTz_-l4q0-rKw2lSBUWAeHJM/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RycbvpJgu1IeHfdODomYZ4MXKeyYULmD3FnQOvPMFmCnuPDOmIJ6ncD25NzrLUWktYtVH5gydkCSNRyRChlpxVhZi3J_9OJQPqDcVGqVJzLmmecJGMibTz_-l4q0-rKw2lSBUWAeHJM/s640/Untitled.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">People love to bring their issues under the spotlight as there is no better revenge against a brand than making their
flaws public. Don’t let it brainwash you. If there is a real problem, a pattern
will emerge. Use your judgment to see who pointed out a genuine issue and who
is just a customer who had a fight with his wife and needed an outlet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">5. <u>Upcoming launches/updates:<o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Always, ALWAYS! Keep an eye
out for launches that are soon to arrive. Follow car magazine pages and
websites to know if there’s a better option coming out later. Salesmen function
on the basis of monthly targets. So if they want to make a sale they will push
you to book a car immediately so as to fill up their quota.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMl6hbvQPyAZZMTpuk_cdyaxMqiptoKixN9ZxFaLuCjngVrzfADilycOhOv9DQ7lD2WlV18bUAtknP4I-krAMCWe6acy8wsdkNBkXlLd-x0r5u6lIv-pPpMlax4-Q-ex3xukFImLsNlE/s1600/229231_10151160670383044_1511461465_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMl6hbvQPyAZZMTpuk_cdyaxMqiptoKixN9ZxFaLuCjngVrzfADilycOhOv9DQ7lD2WlV18bUAtknP4I-krAMCWe6acy8wsdkNBkXlLd-x0r5u6lIv-pPpMlax4-Q-ex3xukFImLsNlE/s1600/229231_10151160670383044_1511461465_n.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep yourself updated to see
if the car you’re looking at has a new upgrade or version coming out. Bear in
mind the fact that an upgrade doesn't have to mean higher prices, even though
the guy selling the car may say otherwise. Especially around December,
salespersons use the “prices will go up” tactic, when in fact the prices may
even drop. The period of January to April sees a flood of discounts and offers
as everyone is trying to close the books with the big numbers. This is the
ideal time to strike as dealers get desperate and their arms can be twisted to
a certain extent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Festive season offers are a dime
a dozen thanks to the sheer number of festivals throughout the year, but don’t
let the offers get in the way of trying to strike a bargain. The free gifts you
get for your purchase are never free. Everything has been added to the final price
of your car so make sure you get what you paid for. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be smart while buying a car. While some of these
factors should be long term considerations, some are just about getting the
most bang for your buck. Shelling out a little more money to get a safer car
and taking a little more time and effort to do your homework and get a great
buy is worth it when the car you buy looks after you and not just your wallet.</span></span></div>
</div>
Big riderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10108361108379544742noreply@blogger.com0