Audi best European brand in the Consumer Reports Reliability Survey 2017

Audi has been voted best European car brand for the sixth time in a row in the Reliability Survey run by Consumer Reports. The renowned U.S. consumer magazine runs this survey every year among its readers and publishes the results. Audi took fourth place in the 2017 overall ranking, ahead of all its European competitors.

Werner Zimmermann, Head of Quality Assurance at AUDI AG: “We are delighted with this result, which sends a strong signal to our customers: Quality is a core competence of the Audi brand.”

The annual Consumer Reports survey of all the magazine’s subscribers asks automobile owners to report problems encountered with their vehicles over the past twelve months. Information on the kind of damage, the resulting costs or the time taken to repair the vehicle are incorporated into the ranking. Consumer Reports takes into account data relating to the last three vehicle model years.

This year, Consumer Reports collected owner feedback on around 640,000 automobiles. The ranking from the Reliability Survey is taken together with the magazine’s test results to create an overall ranking of the test vehicles. All eight Audi models tested receive a buy recommendation in 2017: the Audi A3, A4, A6, A8, Q3, Q5, Q7, and TT.

Source: Audi

Honda Civic Type R Named Motor Authority’s 2018 Best Car to Buy

TORRANCE, Calif.: The Honda Civic Type R has been selected as the 2018 Best Car to Buy by Motor Authority, an honor it bestows on its single favorite luxury or performance vehicle that most strongly appeals to enthusiasts based on styling, features, acceleration, and handling. The Civic Type R was described by Motor Authority as "the most fun you can have in a front-drive car". With its muscular 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo® engine, short-throw 6-speed manual transmission,  race-bred chassis and rigid body, the Type R is the most powerful Honda ever sold in America.

Source: Honda

2018 Honda Accord Named as The Car Connection Best Car to Buy

The all-new from the ground up 10th-generation 2018 Honda Accord was recognized as the 2018 Best Car to Buy by Car Connection. This generation Accord is the most stylish, sporty and premium model in its 41-year history. The 1.5L Turbo went on sale Oct. 18 with the 2.0L Turbo arriving at dealerships next month and the Hybrid in early 2018. The Car Connection team of automotive expert editors selects Best Car to Buy winners by considering styling, performance, comfort and quality, safety, features, and fuel economy on a ten-point scale.

Source: Honda

All-new 2018 Nissan LEAF wins “CES 2018 Best of Innovation” award

first international honors for world’s best-selling EV

New York: The new Nissan LEAF was named "2018 Best of Innovation" winner at the annual "Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Unveiled" ceremony, presented by the Consumer Technology Association.

The award, given before a crowd of tech industry experts in New York, marks the first international award for the all-new zero-emission Nissan LEAF.

As confirmation of Nissan's leading investment in innovation, the Nissan LEAF 100% electric vehicle with ProPILOT Assist and e-Pedal technologies took the following honors:

• CES Best of Innovation award winner for Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology
• CES honoree for Tech for a Better World

Each year, the Consumer Technology Association announces its CES Best of Innovation award winners as part of the buildup to the January CES in Las Vegas. Nissan and the association will put on a special display of the new Nissan LEAF at the 2018 show.

"It is a great honor to have this early and important recognition for the new Nissan LEAF," said Daniele Schillaci, Nissan's executive vice president for global marketing and sales, zero-emission vehicles, and battery business. "This award recognizes products and technologies that benefit people and the planet, so it is fitting that the new LEAF has been honored. It is more than just a car. It is the icon of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, our vision to move people to a better world."

The new Nissan LEAF brings a compelling package of everyday-useful innovations and technologies to more people worldwide than any electric vehicle has done before. The car is helping make the world a better place not only through innovation but also through accessibility to more people.

The new Nissan LEAF goes on sale in early 2018 at LEAF Certified Nissan dealers nationwide.

Source: Nissan

Clips introduces Selfie Scenes for immersive, 360-degree selfies on iPhone X

Cupertino, California — Apple today announced a major update to Clips, the free app for iOS that makes it easy to create and share fun videos using iPhone or iPad. Clips introduce Selfie Scenes and adds artistic style transfer effects and a redesigned interface that makes it easier than ever to create great videos on the go.

Selfie Scenes is an exciting new feature that places users into animated, 360-degree scenes when recording selfies. Using the sophisticated TrueDepth camera system on iPhone X, Selfie Scenes transports users into bustling cities, serene landscapes, abstract paintings and even the Millennium Falcon and Mega-Destroyer from “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”

“Clips users love how quick and easy it is to create amazing videos on iPhone or iPad,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Apps Product Marketing. “And we’re making it even more fun with Selfie Scenes. By harnessing the incredible new TrueDepth camera system on iPhone X, users can now record selfies against a variety of fun and whimsical backdrops with just a tap.”

With Selfie Scenes, users can choose from 10 Apple-designed scenes, featuring unique locations, characters, colors and visual styles plus two scenes from “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Each scene is a full 360-degree experience, so it surrounds users on all sides as they move iPhone X. And environmental sound effects make scenes even more immersive.

New artistic effects use advanced machine learning and style transfer technology to turn any photo or video into a moody oil painting, vibrant watercolor or elegant pencil sketch — in real time while recording. Clips also adds more content from Disney, including full-screen posters featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, as well as Star Wars stickers featuring animated versions of Princess Leia, Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Chewbacca, and others. Users can also add more personality to their Clips videos with 16 new Apple-designed stickers and 21 new royalty-free soundtracks from indie artists. And, as with all Clips soundtracks, these new tracks automatically adjust to match the length of videos.

The easy-to-use interface gets even better with a streamlined design that puts frequently used controls easily within reach. A new Effects browser lets users view and choose filters, labels, stickers, and emoji. Labeled buttons make it easier than ever to edit Live Titles, add or change filters, trim, mute and delete clips. And full-screen browsers allow users to see more of their content when viewing their photo library or selecting animated posters.

Source: Apple

Shot Blasting Machines

Shot blasting is a process of Cleaning & Finishing of Castings, Forgings, Aluminium & Zinc die castings, Brass & Gunmetal parts, Sheet metal components, as well as the Tempered or hardened components. These Shot blasting machines are available in Tumblast, Table, Hanger, as well as the latest Continuous conveyor models.

In Tumblast, a conveyor belt rotates inwards, inside the chamber of the shot blasting machine & the components are loaded on it as per the size & capacity of the machine. The door is then closed. The Rotor is switched on for throwing Shots or Grits on the components. By this process, the loaded components get a universal finish. Abrasive media such as Shots or Grits are continuously fed by the elevator of abrasive media. All the dust extracted in the process goes to the attached dust collector. On completion of the desired time period, the door is opened & then the conveyor belt is driven outwards. As a result, the components can be removed from the chamber. An automatic loading system can also be attached to the shot/grit blasting machine. The Tumblast shot/grit blasting machines are available in many sizes, right from a 2 cu ft capacity machine to a 15 & 20 cu ft capacity machines. Some of the sizes are: 20" x 27", 20" x 42", 27" x 36", 30" x 43", 36" x 42", 42" x 42" as well 48" x 48" & the bigger ones.

Similarly, Hanger model Shot blasting machines are available in Single / Double door type, Centralised hanger type as well a monorail type. In this model, the components are hanged instead of loading on the conveyor belt. Rest of the process is same. The hanger rotates for a universal finish using multiple rotors depending upon the requirement. The benefit is that the components do not touch each other in the process of finishing and hence are scratch free. Swing table model shot blasting machines are suitable for bigger or heavier components or if the smaller parts are to be shot blasted only one side. Many sizes are available from a minimum 36" of the table model to 120" of the table model in single as well double doors.

Continuous conveyor model shot blasting machines are suitable for smaller components which are to be shot blasted only one side with a single rotor. Multiple sides can be finished by using multiple rotors. Components are fed from one side & removed from the other side duly finished. The spare parts mostly wearable are made from ni-hard or alloy steel to get the maximum life.The main spare parts include the Rotor, Blades, Spring locks, Cage & Impeller, Cage adapter, center plate, Top segment, Sideliners, Round plates as well the conveyor belt. Few precautions are necessary while running the machine.

Table model is used for the bigger & heavier components for the top side shot blasting with a single rotor or upper side shot blasting with multiple rotors. For the smaller parts that are to be shot blasted only from the upper side only, consumers are now using the Continuous conveyor model as it is must faster and cost-effective.

The Tumblast model of Shot blasting machine if to be used for finishing of smaller to medium-sized components is best suitable and very cost effective. we can be contacted with details of your components for a suitable size & model of shot blasting machine. More details can be viewed on http://www.finishingmachines.com

The author, B S Vohra, is engaged in the sale of Shot blasting machines for the last over 25 years. You can visit him on http://www.finishingmachines.com  for more details.

Mercedes-Benz leads the race in compact luxury performance segment

LAUNCHES THE RACY MERCEDES AMG CLA 45 and GLA  45 4MATIC

Mercedes-Benz India’s 6th &7th AMG product launch out of 12 products in 2017, as part of celebrating ’50 Years of AMG’ | Also available in the aero edition with invigorating design elements under the ‘designo’ umbrella

Chennai: India’s leading luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz today further cemented its strong presence in the performance segment, by launching two new AMGs, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and the GLA 45 4MATIC. The 45 AMG boasts of the ‘most powerful four-cylinder series production engine in the world. With the introduction of these two new AMGs, Mercedes-Benz India is making a strong statement in the growing performance car segment. Both the vehicles offer a host of new features and embody dynamism, sportiness, exceptional driving performance and agility. Continuing the global celebration of 50 years of AMG, the vehicles were launched by Roland Folger – Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.  

Roland Folger – Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “Performance car segment in India is fast evolving and hence product innovation becomes crucial to outpace the industry growth. Driving performance remains the key essence of our renowned sub-brand Mercedes-AMG and we lead the performance segment in India by a wide margin. As a part of our global celebrations of 50 Years of AMG, we are glad to launch seven AMGs this year and end the year with the introduction of these two sensational young products from our diverse portfolio. These alluring and radical products appeal to those, who believe in ultimate driving performance, everyday practicality and unmatched luxury appointments. We are committed towards providing the best of our global AMG products to our Indian customers and continue leading in this segment.”

Mr.Folger further added, “With our AMG 45 range, we provide our customers with a product that embodies the motorsport DNA while adding the practicality of everyday use. Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and GLA 45 4MATIC have been modified keeping in mind the changing Indian market sentiments and to suit the young generation’s requirements. We are confident that these new exciting products would create a stronger fan following for AMG in India.”

Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC

• Features the revised AMG front apron with new A-wing design and louvres in the outer air intakes along with the new front splitter
• The AMG rear apron with diffuser insert in a new design and four vertical diffusers round off the powerful AMG design
• AMG radiator grille with twin louvre finished in silver chrome, LED High-Performance headlamps, AMG E-SELECT selector lever and master key with AMG emblem as standard equipment
• Dashboard and beltlines in ARTICO man-made leather including red contrasting topstitching
• Improved aerodynamics by the redesigned spoiler lip on the rear and the new spoiler lip beneath the front splitter ensuring additional driving stability in the high-speed range | Cd value has been reduced by 0.02 points to 0.30
• Powered by the awarded AMG 2.0-litre 4 cylinder turbo engine producing 280 kW  @6000 rpm and up to 475 Nm of torque between 2250-5000 rpm | 0-100 in 4.2 seconds
• The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is priced at INR 75.20 lakhs onwards and the CLA 45 ‘aero edition’ is priced at INR 77.69 lakhs onwards (prices ex-showroom, all India)

Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC

• Expressive dynamism with up-to-date AMG design idiom: Redesigned front apron and striking louvres in the three air intakes
• Front splitter insert in silver chrome and flics in high-gloss black for optimized cooling airflow
• The hallmark AMG "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver chrome finish to reinforce the recognition effect
• New AMG spoiler lip - further improves the aerodynamics, reduces lift at the rear axle, ensures additional driving stability
• The dashboard is finished in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching for an exclusive look
• Powered by the awarded AMG 2.0-litre 4 cylinder turbo engine producing 280 kW  @ 6000 rpm and up to 475 Nm of torque between 2250-5000 rpm | 0-100 in 4.4 seconds 
• The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is priced at INR 77.85 lakhs onwards and the GLA 45 ‘aero edition’ is priced at INR 80.67 lakhs onwards (prices ex-showroom, all India)
• 
  
• Source: Mercedes-benz

AirAsia Domestic Flight Tickets For Rs. 99, International For Rs. 444: Details Here

AirAsia on Sunday announced a discount sale, offering passengers one-way base fares at Rs. 99 for a domestic journey across its Indian JV airline network and Rs. 444 for international flights under a limited-period offer.

However, the travel period under the offer, for which the bookings commence Sunday night, will be between May next year and January 2019, the airline said in a statement on Sunday. "Enjoy (base) fares from as low as Rs. 99 to domestic destinations and (base) fares of Rs. 444 for international destinations," it said in a press release. "With base fares from as low as Rs.99 for travel next year, you can make use of this promo...We hope the partnerships that we have got into for this promotion will enable you to plan your holiday better," AirAsia India managing director and chief executive officer Amar Abrol was quoted as saying in the release. AirAsia India is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons and AirAsia.

Seven Things You Must Know About the AirAsia Offer Of Flight Tickets

1) AirAsia offers passengers one-way base fare at Rs.  99 for a domestic journey across its Indian JV airline network and Rs. 444.

2) However, the travel period under the offer, for which the bookings commence Sunday night, will be between May next year and January 2019, according to the airline.

3) The customers planning an international trip to Johor Bahru from Kolkata; AirAsia Berhad will be offering zero base for seats in this segment, it said adding guests will only need to pay taxes for their flight. Significantly, a major chunk of the airfares comprises fuel surcharge, airport fee, taxes and other charges.

4) The tickets under the sale offer will remain open for bookings from 9.30 pm Sunday to November 19, and the booking can be made through the airline's website and the mobile app only, AirAsia India said.

5) The discounted ticket sale offers cover domestic destinations operated by AirAsia India such Bengaluru, Kochi, Hyderabad, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, New Delhi, Goa, among others, it said.

6) AirAsia's sale offer is meant for flights to Kuala Lumpur from Tiruchirappalli, Kochi, Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur and to Bali from Mumbai & Kolkata, Bangkok from Jaipur, Kolkata, Kochi, Chennai and Bengaluru, the statement said.

7) The offer can also be availed for flights connected by AirAsia Berhad, AirAsia X Berhad, Indonesia AirAsia X, Indonesia AirAsia and Thai AirAsia, according to the statement.

Source with thanks: NDTV

Nissan announces U.S. pricing for 2018 NV Cargo van and NV Passenger van

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2018 Nissan NV Cargo van and 2018 Nissan NV Passenger van. Both models are available now at select Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide. The NV Cargo has a starting MSRP of $28,7303 (NV 1500 Cargo Standard Roof S with 4.0-liter V6). The NV Cargo is the only available High Roof model in the segment4 with rugged body-on-frame construction.

The NV 3500 Passenger S (with 4.0-liter V6) has a starting MSRP of $35,0503.

For 2018, both the NV Cargo and NV Passenger are available with a 375-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance®V8 gasoline engine with a heavy-duty 7-speed automatic transmission – providing best-in-class1horsepower and torque. Both models are also offered with a fuel-efficient 261-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 with 5-speed automatic transmission.

Enhancements for 2018 include standard RearView Monitor, along with standard 5.0-inch color display audio, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices, for all models and grades.

All 2018 NV Cargo and NV Passenger models come with America's Best Commercial Van Warranty2 – featuring bumper-to-bumper coverage of 5 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

2018 Nissan NV Cargo

The highly innovative Nissan NV Cargo is available in three models: NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD, and in two roof configurations – Standard Roof and High Roof. Powering the rear-wheel drive Nissan NV Cargo is a choice of two powerful yet fuel-efficient engines – a 4.0-liter V6 and 5.6-liter V8.

For the 2018 model year, all NV Cargo grades come equipped with standard RearView Monitor, 5.0-inch colour display audio, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices. In addition, the previous Power Package option content – power windows with driver's side one-touch down, power door locks with central locking, auto door lock function, Remote Keyless Entry – is now standard on S grade.

2018 Nissan NV Passenger

The 2018 4-row/12-passenger Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger van is ideal for both personal and fleet use. It features flexible seating configurations, roof-mounted curtain supplemental air bags with rollover sensors for side-impact and rollover head protection for all outboard passengers, and standard headrests and integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions.

Enhancements for the 2018 model year include:

• RearView Monitor now standard
• 5.0-inch colour display audio, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices now standard on all models
• The previous Power Package option content – power windows with driver's side one-touch down, power door locks with central locking, auto door lock function, Remote Keyless Entry and cruise control with steering wheel controls – is now standard on S grade

Source: Nissan

Delhi still in the grip of smog