New Delhi, Delhi, India, Tuesday, January 05, 2010

– The new BMW X6 M and the new BMW 760Li make Indian debut.

– BMW India achieves market leadership in the Indian luxury car segment

The new BMW X1 scheduled to be launched in India by end of 2010 was unveiled at the 10th Auto Expo. The new BMW X1 will be CKD produced at the BMW Plant Chennai by end of the year.

At Auto Expo 2010, BMW India launched the limited edition of the new BMW Gran Turismo in India. Only the elite few in India will have the opportunity to own one of the 100 exclusive limited edition BMW Gran Turismo.

The new BMW X6 M and the new BMW 760Li were also debuted at the BMW Pavilion at Auto Expo 2010.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Peter Kronschnabl, President, BMW India said, “The CKD Production of the BMW X1 is a key milestone in BMW Group’s India strategy. The BMW X1 opens up a new luxury segment in the compact Sports Activity / Sports Utility Vehicle class, demonstrating once again the company’s fine sense for pioneering automotive trends. The BMW X1 is a modern vehicle that represents new interpretation of sheer driving pleasure and, like no other vehicle, a spontaneous lifestyle. It convincingly perpetuates the success story of BMW in India.”

The BMW X1 comes with all the features so typical of a BMW X model and at the same time offers a new interpretation of BMW Sheer Driving Pleasure. The youngest member in the wide range of BMW X models stands for versatile sportiness and supreme agility, with looks characterised by self confident elegance and modern style. Young and sporting in design, the interior combines superior variability with equally superior flexibility. The BMW X1 is the perfect vehicle for customers focusing on areas such as leisure activities and lifestyle in their choice of car. It immediately awakens one feeling: the enthusiasm for driving.

The BMW Gran Turismo is a completely new vehicle concept, adding a unique and distinctive model variant to BMW’s product line-up. The BMW Gran Turismo combines the benefits of a prestige sedan, a modern Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo (Grand Touring). A coupe-like, stretched and sleek roofline, proportions typical of BMW, four doors with frameless windows and a two-piece tailgate determine the stylish and elegant body design of the BMW Gran Turismo. The generous interior offers luxurious comfort, a slightly elevated seating position for comfortable access to the vehicle, clear and superior all-round visibility of road conditions, and truly impressive variability. Powerful and efficient engines, as well as the eight-speed automatic transmission featured as standard, guarantee a supreme driving experience both dynamic and comfortable all in one. No other vehicle can support business, leisure and sports activities with such natural ease.

BMW M, in principle, stands for Maximum Driving Dynamics – in every segment in which BMW M appears. As the first all-wheel-drive BMW M model, the BMW X6 M meets this claim through the application of cutting-edge drivetrain and chassis components that are specially adapted to the character of the Sports Activity Coupé. For the first time, the technological superiority of a BMW M high-performance sports car meets the athletic dynamics of an already unique Sports Activity Coupé in the BMW X6 M. The perfect transferral of the M philosophy to the vehicle concept has created an absolutely exclusive driving experience, setting a new class benchmark in terms of dynamics, agility and emotion. The BMW X6 M is compelling for the outstanding driving characteristics, extremely high comfort and an exceptionally safe driving experience right to the limit.

The new BMW 760Li marks the pinnacle of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series. The newly developed V12 power unit with BMW Twin Power Turbo technology, ¬High Precision Injection and double-VANOS infinite camshaft adjustment delivers maximum output of 400 kW from engine capacity of 6.0 litres and develops peak torque of 750 Newton-metres from just 1,500 rpm. A masterpiece in modern engine technology, the all-aluminium twelve-cylinder power unit stands out through its effortless surge of power, unique acoustic and vibration-damping qualities, and a level of efficiency never seen before in this performance class. BMW 760Li comes with brand-new eight-speed transmission, with its innovative gear set configuration, offering additional gears while maintaining the dimensions and weight of a conventional six-speed automatic.

The ex-showroom prices of the new cars launched are as follows:

The new BMW Gran Turismo: Rs. 63,00,000
The new BMW X6 M : Rs. 1,30,00,000
The new BMW 760Li : Rs. 1,29,00,000

Note: Ex-showroom price excludes RTO registration charges, tax, insurance, handling charges; Octroi and entry tax (as applicable). The above ex-showroom prices are exclusive of sales tax / VAT applicable on sale to the customer. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice.

The new BMW Gran Turismo, the new BMW 760Li and the new BMW X6 M can be ordered at BMW India dealerships from 5 January 2010.

At the BMW Pavilion at Auto Expo 2010, BMW India has also displayed the BMW 3 Series (320d Highline), the BMW 5 Series (520d) that are produced at the BMW Plant Chennai, and the BMW X1 (X1 xDrive20d). The BMW Gran Turismo, BMW 7 Series (760Li), BMW X5 (xDrive30d), BMW X6 M, BMW Z4 (sDrive35i), are also displayed at the Auto Expo 2010, and can be ordered as CBUs.

Today BMW India is number one in the luxury car segment in India and portrays a symbol for dynamic and forward striving people. With its successfully planned and executed market entry strategy and consistent sales performance, BMW India has achieved the market leadership position in the luxury car segment in India in 2009.

This newly launched product offensive at the Auto Expo 2010 is part of the strategic initiatives aimed at continuing BMW’s success story in India. With this resolutely expanded product range BMW India will cover new opportunities in the luxury car segment. These newly launched cars are exclusive authentic luxury products, which are distinguished by their emotional appeal, uncompromising engineering, innovative technology and outstanding quality.

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough – New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet’s growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM’s global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said “with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat’s roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its “body-in/wheels-out” stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat’s strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat’s styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours – Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional “picture framing” layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM’s global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go “Beyond Mini”

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* Automatic Climate Control
* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat’s aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver’s chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers’ upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet’s philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).