New CB1000R and Africa Twin ‘Adventure Sports’ lead Honda’s 2018 line-up at EICMA

Honda today reveals its full 2018 European motorcycle line-up on the eve of the EICMA show in Milan, with the introduction of five new and two extensively upgraded models, alongside concept versions of two Honda legends. The new line-up spans the entire Honda range from a new entry-level 125cc machine, to the 2018 GL1800 Gold Wing, further enriching the deepest, widest product line-up of any manufacturer. 

CB1000R, CB300R, and CB125R bring a new kind of naked style

The CB1000R heads a trio of new naked machines with a unique new identity developed under a design theme of ‘Neo Sports Café’. The new styling language is modern and minimalist, mixing sports naked and café racer inspirations with head-turning results. While every single part has been chosen with its aesthetic effect in mind, the CB1000R lacks nothing in performance and specification: a 12kg weight reduction and 15kW power up compared to the previous generation of CB1000R mean a 20% improvement in power to weight ratio. The multiple riding modes with different combinations of Power, Engine Braking, and Honda Selectable Torque Control run on a new state-of-the-art Throttle By Wire engine management system.

Sharing the new look are two machines for riders at an earlier stage of their motorcycle career. The CB300R and CB125R are both built for fun riding, with lightweight and free-revving engines. But they also boast high specification 41mm USD forks, preload adjustable rear suspension, radial-mount 4-piston front brake calipers and several other features more usually found on much larger machines such as LCD instrument display, LED lighting and IMU-based ABS system.

Upgraded Africa Twin gets new ‘Adventure Sports’ stablemate

The new ‘Adventure Sports’ version of the CRF1000L Africa Twin marks the 30th anniversary of the arrival in Europe of one of the motorcycling’s most celebrated names. Bearing the same Tricolore paint scheme as the original, the new model is built to go even further on both on-road and off-road adventure. It has a 5.4 liter bigger fuel tank than the CRF1000L Africa Twin itself, plus longer travel suspension, higher riding position and ground clearance, heated grips, extra-large skid plate and extended fairing with protective cowl bar. It also shares the extensive updates given to the Africa Twin, which includes Throttle By Wire engine management with four riding modes, expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control parameters, and revised intake and exhaust for a stronger mid-range response.

X-ADV readier than ever for off-road action

Having taken the market by storm in 2017, selling close to 10,000 units in its first 8 months, Honda’s ‘motorcycle SUV’ - which marries the convenience of a scooter with the dynamism of an adventure motorcycle - is now equipped with more off-road capability for 2018. The addition of a multi-level Honda Selectable Torque Control system and ‘G’ switch for more direct gear changes offer a wider range of performance for when the tarmac ends and the trails start. A new 35kW version also makes the X-ADV available for A2 license holders.

GL1800 Gold Wing lands in Europe

The new GL1800 Gold Wing makes its European debut at the 2017 EICMA show. Synonymous with long-range comfort, luxury, and quality for over 40 years, the new Gold Wing has been redesigned from the wheels up, to be sharper, lighter and more compact. The monumental flat six-cylinder engine now has 4-valves per cylinder and comes equipped with Throttle By Wire, 4 riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control and a Hill Start Assist function. The new chassis features an aluminium beam frame, double wishbone front suspension, and single-sided Pro-Arm.

The Gold Wing remains the only motorcycle to offer an airbag as an option, and the new standard-fit Apple CarPlay is another motorcycling first. An entirely new, third generation of Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission - with seven speeds - will also be available and is the perfect match for the Gold Wing’s continent-crossing capabilities.

Evolution of popular NC series continues

For 2018, the wide-ranging appeal of the NC750X, NC750S, and Integra will now be within reach of A2 license holders thanks to the addition of 35kW versions to the line-up. All three also have an rpm limit raised by 900rpm to 7,500 to allow the natural use of the engine performance into a higher rpm range, and both the NC750X and Integra benefit from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control.

Concept versions of two small machines with a big history

Alongside the new models, two concepts - both wearing the original Honda wing logo - add a nostalgic appeal to Honda’s 2017 EICMA unveil. In addition to a 125cc horizontal single-cylinder engine, the Monkey 125 concept sees modern touches such as LED lights, Smart Key, USD forks and digital meters appear on the unmistakable, much-loved Monkey platform.

Finally, the Super Cub 125C concept is a new take on the instantly recognizable classic. Having last month reached the unparalleled milestone of 100 million units sold, this concept version writes a new paragraph in the Super Cub’s 59 -year-old history, and is an ultra-modern reminder of its enduring appeal.

Source: Honda

CB4 ‘Interceptor’ concept adds futuristic extra dimension to Honda’s EICMA line-up

The 2017 Honda stand at EICMA will again feature a Design Studio area showcasing the design work of Honda’s R&D facility in Rome.

This year’s exhibit is the CB4 ‘Interceptor’ - the result of ongoing research around the ‘Neo Sports Café’ design theme which first bore fruit in the ‘CB4 Concept’ shown at EICMA in 2015. The new concept model adds an evocative ‘Sport Endurance’ tone to the original design language of the CB4 Concept, creating a new perspective on the world of the Café Racer, on which the series is based.

The color scheme is “total black”, combining elegance and sportiness while leaving room for a futuristic technology integrated into the flowing design lines. The front of the bike features a fan used to convert the motorcycle’s kinetic energy to power the touch-screen located on the tank. The screen provides constant connectivity, to allow the rider to follow the road through digital maps, make emergency calls or simply to connect devices.

source: honda

It's not a hill station, instead Delhi in the Grip of Smog

Delhi in the grip of Smog and Pollution

Is that the Real Time Air Quality Index monitoring at Delhi - Asks B S Vohra, Environmental Activist

It has been observed that the Real Time Ambient Air Quality data, being shown by DPCC, on its website has some Technical flaws. On the Diwali night, our Team was keeping an eye on the figures of Air Quality Index and the outcome at a specific time was very Shocking and as below: 

ITI Shahdara,  23.20pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

Patparganj,  23.20pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

Sriniwaspuri,   23.20pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

Rohini,  23.15pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

R K Puram, 23.20pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

Mandir Marg, 23.20pm, PM10 NIL, PM2.5 317

JLN Stadium, 23.20pm, PM10 985, PM2.5 NIL

DITE Okhla, 23.20pm, PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

Ashok Vihar, 23.10pm, PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

DITE Wazirpur, 23.20pm,  PM10 NIL, PM2.5 NIL

IGI Airport: No Data at all - page not in operation

Civil Lines: No Data at all - page not in operation

It clearly shows, that out of the 18 stations, at least 12 critical points as above, were not showing any data, at a critical juncture, on the Diwali night, when Hon’ble SC had ordered a ban on the crackers, to analyse the impact of the ban on the levels of Pollution in Delhi.

DPCC must look into it very seriously & must take necessary steps to remove the technical problems if any, so that the clear figures could come out for making the serious policy decisions, in this most polluted city.

B S Vohra

Environmental Activist,  
President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front - Federation

www.RWABhagidari.com
www.RWABhagidari.blogspot.in

Tata Hexa Real Time Rough Road Experience @vohrabs

Special Urban Edition ‘HEXA DOWNTOWN’ to arrive in Tata Motors showrooms from November 3rd

Tata Motors is all set to strengthen its HEXA range of lifestyle SUVs with the launch of HEXA DOWNTOWN, Urban Edition. The HEXA DOWNTOWN amplifies the luxurious side of the HEXA, suitable for the stylish and successful executives who need to combine work and travel. Offering an exemplary and superlative drive in city condition, the HEXA DOWNTOWN not only takes the on-road capabilities of the HEXA but also blends them with the needs of an active and dynamic urban lifestyle customer.

The HEXA DOWNTOWN will be available in limited numbers from November 3rd, 2017 onwards in two packages- the Absolute Pack and the Indulge pack. The DOWNTOWN range starts from 12.18 lakhs (Ex-Showroom – Delhi) for the XE variant.

According to Mr. Mayank Pareek, President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors, “In order to offer our customers with an adrenaline pumped driving experience, we are happy to introduce the urban edition of the successful and versatile SUV, HEXA. The HEXA has caught the imagination of the country with its distinctive on-road and off-road capabilities. It has completely changed the face of Tata Motors and witnessed a strong traction in the market. The HEXA DOWNTOWN, as the name suggests is a vehicle inspired by the city life to match the customers’ charged urban lifestyle. With the new edition of the HEXA DOWNTOWN, we are sure to take forward our brand promise of offering customers aspirational products along with sheer value.

This Urban Edition comes with 15 new exciting features:

It is power packed and feature loaded to enable customers to live the Urban lifestyle to the fullest. The HEXA DOWNTOWN stands out on the road in its unique ‘urban bronze’ colour. The bold chrome accessories across the body give the car a dual personality of a stylish and luxurious SUV coupled with an ultimate off-road vehicle. The HEXA DOWNTOWN features like Wireless Charger, premium tan seat covers, Blaupunkt™ rear seat entertainment player, Heads-up display with Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and so on, have been carefully designed keeping in mind the city’s 24×7 living style, tech lifestyle and diverse terrains.

Source: Tata Motors

Radical and Rapid 2018 Honda Civic Type R Goes On Sale

After a blazing but abbreviated first model year, the Civic Type R accelerates into 2018 today following the June launch of the limited production run 2017 model. The first Civic Type R Honda ever sold in America, this hottest of hot hatchbacks has been widely praised for its dynamic poise and track prowess. The Civic Type R returns for 2018 with a Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $34,100 (excluding $890 destination and other charges).

With a peak output of 306 horsepower (SAE net) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net) from its muscular 2.0-liter DOHC direct-injected VTEC Turbo® engine, the Civic Type R is the most powerful Honda ever sold in America. As before, the 2018 Type R is available in one fully equipped trim with a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission, limited slip differential, Adaptive Damper System and an ingenious dual-axis strut front suspension design that virtually eliminates torque steer.

The Honda Civic Type R's Adaptive Damper System continually adjusts damping force at all four corners and is tied into the Three-Mode Driving System with comfort, sport, and track-focused +R modes. The system modifies damper and throttle response along with steering assist, in accordance with the driver's chosen setting.

Similar to many Civic trims, the 2018 Honda Civic Type R incorporates advanced in-vehicle connectivity and technologies as standard features. These features include Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and more, offering drivers a comfortable and convenient in-vehicle experience.

Along with the in-vehicle connectivity features, the 2018 Civic Type R is also equipped with advanced safety features, including Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control, Advanced 4-Channel ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines, and an Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The 2018 Civic Type R for the U.S. market is produced exclusively in Honda's Swindon, UK plant with the engine produced in Anna, Ohio, using domestic and globally-sourced parts.

Source: Honda

Nissan announces U.S. pricing for 2018 GT-R

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2018 Nissan GT-R, which is on sale now at select Nissan dealers nationwide.

Following last year's significant enhancements to the iconic Nissan GT-R – which included a refreshed look inside and out and 20 additional horsepower – the changes continue for the 2018 model year with the introduction of a new GT-R Pure model, the addition of Apple CarPlay™ to NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Services, and a new black "Kuro Night" color for the Premium Interior Package.

With a starting MSRP1 of $99,990, the 2018 GT-R Pure model is designed to be the most affordable of the four GT-R trim levels. The differences between the Pure and Premium grade, which is priced at $110,490, includes an 11-speaker Bose® audio system, Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement systems, and Titanium exhaust system.

2018 Nissan GT-R Track Edition

The GT-R Track Edition, now in its second year of limited availability, is designed to deliver a higher level of performance than the GT-R Pure and Premium models and features elements of the flagship GT-R NISMO. The GT-R Track Edition retains the GT-R Premium model's 565-horsepower engine rating (versus the GT-R NISMO's 600-horsepower rating). It has a starting MSRP of $128,490.

The ultimate GT-R, the motorsports-inspired GT-R NISMO, is available in very limited numbers in North America. It features numerous motorsports-inspired technologies to enhance the car's performance through optimized aerodynamics, suspension, and powertrain, creating a well-balanced machine at home on both the road and track2. The GT-R NISMO is priced at $175,490.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices1 (MSRP) for the 2018 Nissan GT-R: 

GT-R Pure - $99,990 USD

GT-R Premium - $110,490 USD

GT-R Track Edition - $128,490 USD

GT-R NISMO - $175,490 USD

Destination and Handling $1,695.

The 2018 GT-R Pure, Premium and Track Edition grades are equipped with an advanced 3.8-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 rated at 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque, dual-clutch sequential 6-speed transmission, electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system. The GT-R NISMO is rated at 600 horsepower and 481 lb-ft of torque3 and also features unique exterior and interior treatments, along with special suspension tuning.

For full information on the complete lineup of 2018 Nissan GT-R models, please see nissannews.com.

Source: Nissan

Mahindra’s Auto Sector Sells 51,149 vehicles during October 2017

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.) today announced its auto sales performance for October 2017 which stood at 51,149 vehicles, compared to 52,008 vehicles during October 2016.

The Passenger Vehicles segment (which includes UVs, Cars, and Vans) sold 23,413 vehicles in October 2017, as against 24,737 vehicles during October 2016. The company’s domestic sales stood at 48,818 vehicles during October 2017, as against 48,729 vehicles during October 2016. In the Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles segment, M&M sold 748 vehicles for the month, a growth of 59%. Exports for October 2017 stood at 2,331 vehicles a de-growth of 29 %

Commenting on the monthly performance, Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, M&M Ltd. said, “The auto industry has had a mixed month. The build-up to Dhanteras & Diwali was good but the demand tapered off subsequently. Last year all festivals were in the month of October and the industry volumes had a high base. This year, September and October combined, we have grown by 7.9% in Auto Division. Going forward we enter into a year-end period of lower sales. Our refreshes & new variants, that have been launched, will carve out a niche and we expect to sustain the growth momentum for the remaining period of the current financial year.

Source: Mahindra