Hero Eco Acquires UK’s Electric Two – Wheeler Maker Ultra Motors : BikeAdvice |  |
- Hero Eco Acquires UK’s Electric Two – Wheeler Maker Ultra Motors
- New Automatic Transmission Technology from TVS
- Mahindra’s Plans for Auto Expo 2012
- Delhi Auto Expo 2012 – A Sneak Peek
| Hero Eco Acquires UK’s Electric Two – Wheeler Maker Ultra Motors Posted: 28 Dec 2011 05:45 PM PST
Original Source: Hero Eco Acquires UK's Electric Two – Wheeler Maker Ultra Motors from BikeAdvice.in The game is fast changing with so many twists and turns after Hero Honda became Hero MotoCorp. The world's largest two wheeler manufacturer had expressed its plans of foraying into African and Latin American market which was a great step to fight against its erstwhile ally, Honda. Now, the company has taken a giant leap and this time again in the global scenario.
Vijay Munjal-led Hero Eco has announced that it has acquired UK – based Ultra Motors for an undisclosed amount, with the aim of marking its presence globally and that too in the electric vehicle segment. "The acquisition of Ultra Motors is a giant step forward in setting global footprints for the group. This will give us an exposure to all the markets where Ultra Motors were present and will strengthen Hero’s brand globally," Hero Eco Managing Director Naveen Munjal told For readers who are confused on what is Hero Eco, it is the newly formed umbrella entity by Vijay Munjal led companies which include the best known names of Hero Electric, Hero Exports, Hero Cycles, Mediva, Winn and Hero Ecotech,. This group has got serious plans to invest a whooping sum of INR 450 crore over the next five years across these businesses mentioned here. It is even more stunning to know that the company is also interested in setting a plant in North America within the next 18 months so as to strengthen its foothold out there. “Hero Eco has acquired Ultra Motors in UK. This will give us an exposure to all the markets where Ultra Motors were present and will strengthen Hero’s brand globally,” Hero Eco Managing Director Mr. Naveen Munjal told in a press conference. When asked about the value of the deal, he declined to answer it which makes us unable to know the worth if the deal. “Ultra Motors has 3 plants and is present in 6 countries with sales networks in 22 nations across the globe. This all will come under Hero Eco now,” Munjal said. It has to be mentioned here that Hero Electric which deals with Electric Scooters in India had a tie-up with Ultra Motors for Indian operations which broke apart at a later point of time. Ultra Motors had closed its operations in the sub – continent a couple of years back. Ultra Motors presently has its main manufacturing base in Taiwan and has two other contract assembly plants in China. “Eventually, the contract manufacturing activities of the two Chinese plants will shift to India. However, it will take at least 6-8 months to proceed in that direction,” Hero Eco Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sohinder Gill said. To mention about the new group entity, Hero Eco Chairman Mr. Vijay Munjal said that the new brand identity will integrate all its different verticals which operates under Hero Group. “With the new identity, we will be foraying into high-end bicycles in India under a new brand Winn. We will also expand our medical equipment business under Mediva brand in a big way,” he then added. Mr. Naveen Munjal said that the INR450 crore worth Hero Eco is aiming for a group turnover of INR 1,500 crore over a period of 5 years from now on. “To expand our all businesses, we will be investing Rs 450 crore in the next five years. We will be setting up a new electric vehicle plant in North America in the next 18 months,” he added. Apart from this new acquisition, the group will also set up a bicycle unit in India within the next 18 months, he said. Currently, Hero Eco has all its manufacturing facilities in Ludhiana. While it produces 65,000 units of electric 2-wheelers, 9 lakh bicycles are rolled out every year. 'The Hindu' had recently reposrted, 'Explaining the strategy behind the Ultra Motors deal, Hero Eco Chief Executive Officer Sohinder Gill said the acquisition would not only help the existing businesses of the group to take advantage of the common sourcing and common markets, but would also create a seamless flow of technologies developed in-house and the ones acquired abroad to flow into the each other’s products.' It's great to know that Indian companies are spreading their wings across all corners of the world proving one fact clearly, 'Nothing is Impossible. ' By the time, the world gets to know the worthiness of Electric Vehicles, probably Hero Group would have well established the brand. Great going! Regards, Related posts: |
| New Automatic Transmission Technology from TVS Posted: 28 Dec 2011 05:22 PM PST
Original Source: New Automatic Transmission Technology from TVS from BikeAdvice.in South Indian based TVS Motor Company is one of the important players in the Indian market since its inception. Not many of you would be knowing the fact that TVS Motors is the only two-wheeler company across the globe, as on date to have received the Deming Prize, world's most coveted and prestigious recognition for Total Quality Management.
TVS Motors is probably the topper when it comes to attracting customers of both the genders. While the gentlemen flock the company for its sporty looking bikes like the Apache series, ladies tend to get attracted towards its babylecious products under the Scooty umbrella. The company has been successful for years together in this strategy. Now, TVS Motors has taken a giant leap in the technological aspect as well. TVS Motor Company today announced the development of a new technology which will enhance the fuel efficiency of the vehicle by as much as twenty per cent when compared with the conventional technology which is being used today. This new technology is termed as 'TVS Automatic Transmission' taking the term from the brand name – TVS. This technology employs an Automatic Transmission in place of conventional Continuously Variable Transmission Technology (CVT) which changes gears effortlessly through an electronic control which results in automatically selection of the gear ratios for a particular riding condition. According to a latest press release from TVS Motor Company, 'This particular technology enables the engine to run at its most efficient RPM (revolutions per minute) for a range of vehicle operating conditions, thereby maximizing the engine performance to achieve peak efficiency; overriding the requirement of a clutch.' Commenting on the development, Mr. Harne Vinay Chandrakant, President, New Product Development, TVS Motor Company said, "The objective of this technology development is to deliver a compact engine layout, that will deliver enhanced fuel efficiency and which is usable across product forms like scooter, motorcycles and step – thru' s. This technology also delivers the lowest CO2 in scooters while providing for low floor board and space for luggage." Elaborating on this new technology developed by the company, Mr. Vinay said, "We have developed this technology on a highly innovative vehicle layout with compact packaging and light weight construction presently with a 110 cc 4 stroke engine with two Independent, high precision actuators for the clutch and gear shift operations, mounted directly on the engine itself. The characteristics of the actuators are specifically optimized for low power consumption and frequent gear changes while driving in dense traffic." As a part of this new pioneering technology, the company has also added an innovative ECU (Electronic Control Unit) which enhances the performance and fuel economy besides offering a greater convenience of riding. "An advanced cooling arrangement, which is based on the vehicle motion itself, avoids use of engine driven fan, thus minimizing the additional consumption of fuel. The improvement in engine efficiency is derived through friction reduction and multi map electronic ignition control, while transmission efficiency is boosted through the new 'TVS Automatic Transmission' technology" adds Harne Vinay Chandrakant. This technology is pending for patent and will be implemented in products which are in the pipeline for near future. Regards, Related posts: |
| Mahindra’s Plans for Auto Expo 2012 Posted: 28 Dec 2011 07:35 AM PST
Original Source: Mahindra's Plans for Auto Expo 2012 from BikeAdvice.in I received the official press release from Mahindra Two Wheelers today and was a little disappointed with what they plan to showcase at the biggest auto show in India, the Auto Expo 2012 at Delhi.
Also, would be displayed Mahindra Racing's new Moto3 challenger, the MPG30 which the company says is pronounced as 'three oh'. However, the disappointments were:
Generally companies take Auto Expo as a grand platform to showcase their technical prowess by displaying various prototypes – no matter whether they make it to the roads or not! Mahindra could have planned to showcase some snazzy looking vehicles, probably more to make the presence felt and take the brand deep down the two wheeler world. Nonetheless, I hope they would have already considered all this and have some better plans to unveil sometime later. The Press ReleaseMahindra 2 Wheelers to showcase Mahindra Racing's 2012 Moto3 BIKE and launch the new Mahindra Duro DZ scooter at Delhi Auto Expo 2012 Mumbai, December 27, 2011: Mahindra 2 Wheelers Ltd., a part of the US $14.4 billion Mahindra Group, is all geared up to make a mark at the upcoming Auto Expo 2012. Speaking on the upcoming Auto Expo, Anoop Mathur, President, Mahindra 2 Wheelers said, "The Delhi Auto Expo is the perfect platform to unveil Mahindra Racing's new Moto3 challenger, the MPG30 (pronounced three oh). Similarly at Mahindra Two Wheelers, we have significantly enhanced our technological capabilities to introduce high performance two wheelers like the new Mahindra Duro DZ scooter that we have recently launched in South." "The Mahindra Duro DZ is a tough and powerful scooter designed specifically for Indian road conditions. The Duro DZ is the result of our R&D team working closely with consumers and extensive testing. The Duro DZ has been reviewed by the leading experts in the industry some of who have termed it the best scooter on Indian roads. We have also created an interesting new marketing campaign with actor Kareena Kapoor which we will be unveiling soon" said Mr. Anoop Mathur, President, Mahindra 2 Wheelers. Speaking on the upcoming Auto Expo, Ruzbeh Irani – EVP – Corporate Strategy & Chief Brand Officer, Mahindra and Mahindra said, "Mahindra Racing will unveil its new Moto3 challenger, the MGP30 for the first time in India at the Auto Expo. Mahindra was the first Indian company to enter MotoGP in year 2011. Mahindra Racing, ended its debut 2011 season by claiming the last ever 125 class pole position in Valencia and also achieved an impressive third position in the Constructors' Championship. Our MotoGP participation has also given us a great platform to showcase the Mahindra brand globally and also exhibit our technology skills to a truly global audience”. Share on FacebookRelated posts: |
| Delhi Auto Expo 2012 – A Sneak Peek Posted: 28 Dec 2011 07:10 AM PST
Original Source: Delhi Auto Expo 2012 – A Sneak Peek from BikeAdvice.in So guys, are you all ready with your fingers crossed for the upcoming Delhi Auto Expo – 2012? We're sure that this Expo will showcase a lotta segment busters which will keep us live and blissful for the whole of 2012. As we've informed you all, Team BikeAdvice will get you the updates live every now and then direct from Pragati Maidan, New Delhi which is the venue of this majestic expo. Now along this post, I'll take you through an idea of what few of the major players will be showcasing out there. BMW Motorrad
BMW Motorrad, as many of you must be knowing is the motorcycle brand of the German manufacturer - BMW. All BMW Motorrad’s motorcycle production takes place at the company's plant in Berlin, Germany although some engines are manufactured in other nations like Austria, China, and Taiwan to a certain extent. BMW Motorrad is known for its bikes bearing a premium price tag and the company is highly interested in strengthening its foothold out here. So, the company is planning to display their award winning bikes at its stall in the Delhi Auto Expo. There are high chances for the company to showcase their models of 2012 K1600 GT and K1600 GTL Grand Tourers at the Expo. BMW Motorrad is also more into 'Urban Mobility' concepts which are EVs in general. These scoots of theirs is gaining raid attention wherever they display owing to its future grip across the globe, So, this makes us expect the company to showcase the C600 Sport and the C 650 GT as well. Apart from their vehicles, BMW will also display their accessories and gears which could be used with BMW Motorrad products. This is gonna be interesting to see premium products n display. Makes it interesting now! Ducati
This Italian manufacturer is one of the recent enterer to the Indian market, who has got a great potential among the masses. Ducati has a very good brand image across the globe amongst the biking fraternity which is a major advantage for the company. We expect Ducati to unveil their new model, the 848 Streetfighter for India and the near-by nations. Ducati is very strong and sturdy in the 1000cc+ category (litre bikes). However, it has understood the fact clearly that India is not the market for such bikes. Hence, the company will be showcasing their lower end bikes here. The company's current assortment comprises of models like the 1198, Diavel, Hyper Motard, Monster, Multistrada, Sport Classic, the 1099 Streetfighter and Streetfighter S, which will all be displayed at the Ducati stall, To stress the point again, Ducati will also unveil the 848 Streetfighter for the country which is its first naked street bike in the 800cc segment. However, the recently launched 1199 Panigale would be the show – stopper for this stall. Great going Ducati! There are likelihood for Ducati to put their apparel and others merchandise on exhibit here. Yamaha
Here comes the segment leader of India. Known for quality and affordable bikes across the length and breadth of the nation, Yamaha has got plans to showcase its quarter litre bike – The Fazer 250 at the Delhi Auto Expo along with its present portfolio of products. This includes its flagship products like the YZF – R15 V2.0, FZ series which comprises of FZ-16, FZ-S and the Fazer. Fazer 250, if launched will be the third quarter litre bike for our market, which is growing at a decent rate as on date. Apart from these products, Yamaha will also display their range of CBUs (Completely Built Units) which are the YZF – R1, FZ1, MT-01 and the VMAX. But will the Japanese maker display the R6, which is one of the best – seller across the globe when it comes to the 6500cc category? Well, this is a very serious question which can be answered as of now but if this happens then it's gonna be a great year for Yamaha in this sub – continent. And not to forget, the upcoming scooter from Yamaha for the Indian market. Scooters' growth is catching up the pace of reputed bikes and the trend will only grow in the northward direction in the coming years. This assured growth is attributed to the high vehicle traffic and congestion in cities all across India which is also combined with the growth of female riders in the recent past. We hope that this concept is showcased as well by India Yamaha Motors (IYM). TVS Motors
At the time of Delhi Auto Expo – 2010, TVS Motors revealed a few concepts of their upcoming models. Expect the same this time too. The Apache series which now boasts of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) will be promoted in its stall. The Wego, which is the company's recently launched gearless Unisex scooter, might also be kept on display. TVS Motors is the only two-wheeler company across the globe, as on date to have received the Deming Prize, world's most coveted and prestigious recognition for Total Quality Management. It is also the first company in India to launch an auto-clutch bike which is the Jive. We hope and expect the company to display its streetfighter model which is the 'Velocity'. As we'd reported a couple of weeks back, the Neo and Rockz were being tested in different parts of Tamilnadu which gives us a hint that this might also be thrown for display here to snatch the attention and interest of the visitors. Harley Davidson
The US cult bike maker, Harley Davidson has been in the market for quite some time and is in fact doing good business in India with its limited range of exclusive tourers. At the Auto Expo 2012, Harley Davidson will showcase its entire India line – up at Stall No. 18. Harley Davidson is also known for their customized motorcycles which would cater the need and preference of the riders. This makes us get a feel that such bikes might also be put for display in its stall. Any Harley Davisson stall will be incomplete without stacking it with its exclusive merchandise. So, this will be a major attraction in this stall. The company is planning to organize a fashion show where models will walk the ramp with these apparels and other related stuff. By this time, rock band which is always synonymous with HDs should have stuck your mind. Yes, Local Rock Bands Split from Mumbai and Circus from New Delhi will also be performing at the stall. Bajaj Auto
Bajaj Auto is India's second largest player which has forayed into a few of the neighbouring markets and has created a strong impact there. Bajaj Auto, as many of our readers would be knowing by now owns a 39 per cent stake in the Austrian off-road bike maker KTM will most probably be showcasing the KTM Duke200 which is all set to foray into our market in less than a month or so. However we need to know if Bajaj will showcase the Duke 350 which is the next product from KTM for the Indian market. But what makes people expect something more from Bajaj is the unveiling of next generation Pulsar. This series of bikes have been the most successful brand in India for the past ten year. The company is celebrating tenth year anniversary of this flagship brand since Pulsar's inception in the year 2001. This will attract more crowd for the stall with more number of people craning their necks to get a look of this much awaited series of bikes. Hero MotoCorp
India's first trans – roader bike, the Impulse will most probably be promoted to a greater extent by HMC. This is the first big expo for HMC post the split between the Hero group and Japan's Honda. There are chances for the company to display their new scooter -Maestro. There'll also be most of its products belonging to the company's portfolio as on date displayed in its stall. Apart from it, there are not much of new products to be expected from the world's largest manufacturer of two – wheelers in this particular expo. Honda
HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India Ltd) has got plans of launching a new 100cc commuter bike before the end of this year. But then, there is no official news from the company's side if they'll display it in the Auto Expo or not. Next on the list is the CBR150R.News of this bike stepping into India has been round for quite sometime. Last auto expo witnessed the CB Twister in the concept stage which is a successful brand for the company in the present market conditions. HMSI will also display most of their current portfolio of products which include Activa, Dio and Aviator in the scooter segment and Twister, Shine, Stunner, Unicorn, Dazzler and the CBR250R in the bike segment. Suzuki
Suzuki is making a great business in India with its successful scooter brand- Access125. However, the company has announced that it'll ne unveiling the next scooter for the Indian market. Though, we're not sure about what will this scooter be based on, there are high chances for it to have been derived for the 'SkyDrive' model which is a big hit in many nations. Coming to the Motorcycle segment, all that is expected is a 250cc naked bike from Suzuki. Apart from this, the company's only 150cc bike for India, the GS150 saw a facelift very recently. So, expect this to be placed in Suzuki's stall in Pragati Maidan. Regards, Related posts: |
In the press release (read below) they have mentioned that the company would launch the 125cc scooter Duro DZ which we tested a few days back. The scooter has been launched down South and Mahindra is taking this as the platform to highlight their new scooter.
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