Toyota Kirloskar Motor extends ‘Drive the Nation: Government Employee Sales Program’ to year end on high demand

Customers can now avail 100% On Road Funding for 8 Years with ZERO down payment - Benefits under the campaign extended to Corolla Altis

In its endeavor to enhance customer delight, Toyota Kirloskar Motor extended its special sales initiative “Drive the Nation” until December 31st, 2017 for state and central government employees. The campaign has been highly appreciated nationwide by customers across India for the customized offers and the value proposition that Etios series offers as an ideal family car. Strong demand from customers and positive push in sales have encouraged TKM to extend this campaign for each quarter.

Rolled out in 2016 in-line with Toyota’s customer-first philosophy, a driving force behind all innovative products and services, “Drive the Nation” campaign offers a range of benefits starting from affordable funding solutions focused on low customer acquisition cost, attractive offers on Toyota Protect Insurance and Toyota Genuine Accessories and unmatched extended warranty. The campaign has successfully contributed to around 7% sales to total sales for Etios Series and 11% sales to the personal segment.

Drive the Nation scheme presents a 100% On Road Funding for a tenure of 8 Years for serving and retired government employees with Zero Down Payment and Lowest EMI. “Drive the Nation Champions” have been appointed in each of the sales outlets of Toyota in order to give dedicated attention to all government employee inquiries. This promotional offer will be supported by Toyota’s large sales and service network spread across the country.

Speaking on the initiative, N Raja, Director & Senior Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd said, “Quality products and services are integral to Toyota’s goal of customer delight. We continuously try to ensure that we offer a range of products and services to suit the requirements of customers. It gives us immense satisfaction that ‘Drive the Nation’ campaign has generated an overwhelming response in each phase since its launch in 2016. It is the testament to the world-class quality, durability, reliability the Etios series brings to the Indian customer. We are delighted that we have been able to serve the government employees through this campaign who incessantly work hard for the nation. Owing to strong demands from customers, we have included our premium & global sedan Corolla Altis under the purview of this special sales campaign. The Corolla Altis is undoubtedly one of the most popular sedans which is sold in over 150 countries and has a base of over 44 million happy customers across the world. Additionally, we have introduced 100% On Road Funding for a tenure of 8 Years on Etios Series to enhance affordability and ease of acquisition. Government employees serve our country with unceasing pride and responsibility, and we feel that they deserve a car which is as dependable.

We are thankful to our customers for their continued patronage to brand Toyota and hope more government employees become proud Toyota owners”, he added.

Etios series has set a safety benchmark in the industry is the first in the segment to standardize dual SRS airbags and ABS with EBD across all grades, also the first in its segment to introduce the new ISOFIX Tether for Child Seat. Recently the Made-in India Etios bagged 4 Stars at a crash test campaign organized by Global NCAP the international body that is involved in new car assessment in association with AA South Africa scoring 4-star rating in frontal adult passenger protection and three stars in child occupant protection. It has also been recognized as “Most Dependable Car” in the Entry Mid-Size Segment award by JD Power 2017 India vehicle dependability study, for three consecutive years.

Source: Toyota

RWAs Drive against Pollution !

with thanks: NBT, DJ

Awards for Audi from September to November 2017

“Executive Station Wagon 2017”: Audi A6 Avant most popular luxury class model

For the fourth consecutive time, Audi and its A6 Avant (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.6 - 4.4*; combined CO2emissions in g/km: 224 - 114*) have topped the “luxury class” category in the “Executive Station Wagon 2017” competition. More than 1,200 readers of “Deutsche Handwerks Zeitung” and “Handwerk magazine” submitted their votes. The award is presented every other year and reflects the opinions of business owners in skilled crafts and trades. The prize was accepted by Ralf Weichselbaum, Head of Key Account Sales at Audi, at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt on September 15. “This is the best evidence that we are effectively fulfilling the needs of our customers. We want to further extend our competitive edge with the new A6, which we will present next year,” Weichselbaum said.  (September 2017)

“Eurostar 2017”: Alejandro Vukotich honored

Automotive News Europe has honored Alejandro Vukotich, Head of Automated Driving Development at Audi, with the “Eurostar 2017”. The automotive trade magazine recognized the 46-year-old for the Audi AI traffic jam pilot. With this, the brand with the four rings takes the lead in autonomous driving. The new Audi A8 is the first production car in the world developed for conditional automated driving at Level 3. On highways and multi-lane expressways with a physical barrier, the Audi AI traffic jam pilot handles driving in slow-moving traffic up to 60 km/h (37.3 mph). It handles starting from a stop, accelerating, steering, and braking in its lane. If the driver activates the system, and if current national regulations allow it, the driver can turn his or her attention to other activities that are supported by the onboard infotainment system. Behind the Audi AI, traffic jam pilot is innovative technologies, including the new sensor set with a laser scanner and the central driver assistance controller. Alejandro Vukotich joined Audi in 1999 and began his career as a developer of driver assistance systems. He has been responsible for their use across model lines since 2009. He has been Head of Automated Driving Development since the start of 2017.  (September 2017)

“Family Car of the Year 2017”: award for the Audi Q5

What do parents and kids especially prize in a family car? What is important? What can be eliminated? What is the maximum acceptable purchase price? The “Family Car of the Year 2017” study from the magazines “AUTOStraßenverkehr” and “Leben & erziehen” offered detailed answers to these and other questions. A total of 18,270 readers selected their favorite models in seven different price categories. The Audi Q5 easily took top honors in the “35,000 to 40,000 euros” category with 30.9 percent of the votes. Voters could select from a total of 152 station wagons, vans, and SUVs. For the overwhelming majority of respondents, roominess was the most important purchase criterion. A large luggage compartment topped the wish list for 89 percent of the respondents; 78 percent said generous interior space was crucial in their purchasing decision. Among readers who were planning to buy a new car, the SUV held a clear lead with 31 percent. Station wagons and vans were each named by 23 percent.  (September 2017)

“Connectivity Award 2017”: double win for Audi

For the fourth time, readers of “auto motor und sport” and “Chip” computer magazine have selected their favorite technology relating to the connected car. More than 16,000 participants selected the best systems in 11 categories. Audi received two prizes – one for the Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 loudspeakers, 705 watts and acoustic adaptation to background noise; and secondly, the innovation prize for the Audi AI traffic jam pilot in the new A8. The fourth generation of the luxury sedan is the first car in the world to enable conditional automated driving at Level 3 and, in specific situations, assumes the task of driving. While the traffic jam pilot starts, accelerates, steers and brakes, the driver can – depending on national regulations – watch a film on the 10.1-inch display in the center console, answer e-mails, write text messages, update their appointment calendar or read the news – a big relief in a traffic jam. In addition, Audi achieved second place with its voice recognition system in the “telephone integration” category, with the Audi connect SIM in the “entertainment/multimedia” category, with the predictive adaptive cruise control in the “convenience assistance systems” category, and with Audi pre sense city in the “safety assistance systems” category.  (September 2017)

“Golden Classic Car 2017”: first place for the NSU Ro 80

Readers of the trade magazine “Auto Bild Klassik” have spoken: In the voting for the “Golden Classic Car” awards, Audi has won first prize in the “sedan” category with the Ro 80 model of its former brand NSU. The luxury model had a clear lead with 33.6 percent of the votes. The NSU Ro 80 debuted in 1967 at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. That same year it became the first German automobile to be named “Car of the Year” by an international jury. 

The Ro 80 set new standards in road handling, comfort, safety, and performance. The futuristic, wedge-shaped lines of its body are still considered a milestone in automobile design even today. The model was produced from 1967 to 1977 in Neckarsulm. During this time, a total of 37,406 units rolled off the assembly line.  (October 2017)

Three Audi models win first prize in their class at “sports auto Award 2017”

For the 25th time, readers of “sports auto” have selected the sportiest production and tuning cars of the year. More than 13,000 participants voted in the “sports auto AWARD 2017.” There was a total of 234 models in 25 categories to choose from. Audi took top honors in three classes: The premium brand won with the Audi S1 (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.2 - 7.0*;combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 168 - 162*) in the “subcompact production cars,” was victorious with the Audi RS3 Sportback (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.4 - 8.3*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 192 - 189*), in the “compact production cars” category, and prevailed with the Audi RS 6 Avant performance (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.6; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 223) in the “production sedans/station wagons over 100,000 euros.” The Audi S3 Sedan (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.1 - 6.4*;combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 163 - 148*) achieved second place in the “production sedans/station wagons up to 50,000 euros.” Third place in the rankings of “production convertible/roadster up to 50,000 euros” went to the Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TFSI Quattro (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.9 - 6.7*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 158 - 154*). Audi also landed on the winner’s podium in the selection of the “motorsport: best GT3 class customer sports program” – with the Audi R8 LMS.  (October 2017)

“Annual Multimedia Award 2018”: Audi receives four prizes

The “Annual Multimedia Award” has been honoring digital projects with gold or silver since 1996. It highlights the trends in digital marketing as well as in multimedia design. Audi won silver in the “special digital formats” category with the virtual exhibit – the highest accolade in this category this year. HoloLens data glasses make it possible to experience technology at a whole new level. Complex situations can be shown directly on the car and explained using a 3D animation that appears in the user’s field of vision. Silver also went to Audi magazine in the “website” category and the Audi Sport “Rodeo” brand book in the “web TV/video” category. Gold was awarded to the “Tool” Audi Design Manual – From monologue to dialogue.  (October 2017)

Business Insider: Audi MMI – virtual cockpit is the “Infotainment System of the Year 2017”

For the second time, Audi has been granted the “Infotainment System of the Year” title by Business Insider. The Audi MMI system impresses with a diverse range of audio functions, precise navigation via Google Maps, Bluetooth integration, Audi Connect 4G LTE connection and a wealth of apps. Also decisive for the win were the voice controls, which experts call state-of-the-art, and the intuitive as well as safe operation while driving. Many functions can be controlled with the multifunction steering wheel, along with the views of the Audi virtual cockpit. It transforms the analog instrument cluster into a digital screen that adapts to the customer’s wishes and needs. The driver can select between the traditional display and the infotainment mode. The navigation maps or telephone, radio and audio lists dominate here within a large window between the two round dials. The S models also have a sports mode, in which the tachometer is located at the center. The Audi virtual cockpit is available in many Audi models.  (November 2017)

ROBB REPORT LUXURY AWARD: Audi A8 wins in the “best production sedan” category

The German edition of ROBB REPORT magazine has awarded its first-ever “LUXURY AWARD 2018” for the best luxury car of the year. The prize for the “best production sedan” went to the Audi A8. Its combination of materials, design and innovative solutions won over the independent, international jury: “In a digital world in which time is becoming more and more of a luxury, autonomous mobility gives you a time advantage.” The experts praised the Audi AI traffic jam pilot for this reason. While the system does the driving, the driver can carry out other practical activities and use his or her time sensibly. A total of twelve awards were presented in six categories, including ten for new luxury cars and two to classic automobiles.  (November 2017)

Showered with international awards: multiple prizes in Australia and Brazil

Audi has received the “Car of the Year” car sales award in Australia for the Audi Q5 in the “best SUV over AU$50,000” category. The Audi A4 is the “best prestige car under AU$100,000.” The Audi Q7 won the Australian “Drive Car of the Year” competition in the “best luxury SUV over AU$80,000” class. The Audi A5 Sportback (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.7 - 4.1*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km:174 - 106*) won two prizes in Brazil: “Best imported car of Latin America” in the Americar Awards and “Best imported car” in the Car Awards Brazil 2018.  (November 2017)

“10Best Car of the Year” Audi RS 3 Sedan

Car and Driver honored the Audi RS 3 Sedan (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.4 - 8.3*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 191 - 188*) with the “10Best Car of the Year” award at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The experts praised the car’s outstanding performance and powerful design combined with its high functionality. The Audi RS 3 Sedan is powered by a 2.5 TFSI engine with a power output of 294 kW (400 hp). The compact RS model sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph)in 4.1 seconds. The unique sound of the five-cylinder unit intensifies an already emotionally charged driving experience.  (November 2017).

Source: AUDI

Decision of GST Council : Inter-State e-way Bill to be made compulsory from 1 st of February, 2018; system to be ready by 16th of January, 2018.

The 24th meeting of the GST Council held today through a video conference. It discussed about the implementation of e-way Bill system in the country. Till such time as National e-way Bill is ready, the States were authorized to continue their own separate e-way Bill systems. However, it was represented by the trade and transporters that this is causing undue hardship in the inter-State movement of goods and therefore, bringing in an early all India system of e-way Bill has become a necessity. The GST Council reviewed the progress of readiness of hardware and software required for the introduction of nationwide e-way Bill system. After discussions with all the states, the following decisions are taken :- 

i) The nationwide e-way Bill system will be ready to be rolled out on a trial basis latest by 16th January, 2018. Trade and transporters can start using this system on a voluntary basis from 16th January, 2018. 

ii) The rules for implementation of nationwide e-way Bill system for inter-State movement of goods on a compulsory basis will be notified with effect from 1 st February, 2018. This will bring uniformity across the States for seamless inter-State movement of goods. 

iii) While the system for both inter-State and intra-State e-way Bill generation will be ready by 16th January, 2018, the States may choose their own timings for implementation of e-way Bill for intra-State movement of goods on any date before 1 st June, 2018. There are certain States which are already having system of e-way Bill for intra-State as well as inter-State movement and some of those States can be early adopters of national eway Bill system for intra-State movement also. But in any case uniform system of e-way Bill for inter-State as well as intra-State movement will be implemented across the country by 1 st June, 2018

Samsung Notebook 9 (2018): Powerful design, yet lightweight and thin

With three different versions offering a 13.3” to a 15” screen and enhanced graphics capabilities, the Notebook 9 (2018) weighs up to 2.84 pounds and measures 15.4mm, one of the lightest and thinnest notebook devices in its class. The bezel around the screen measures 6.2mm providing a more immersive experience. This means great portability without sacrificing screen size, as well as a stronger, more durable metal body featuring Metal12™ which provides durability while keeping it super light.

The device also provides always-on power thanks to the 75Wh Hexacell battery, Samsung’s largest and most powerful battery placed inside a notebook. For the times when charging is necessary, it also supports fast charging.

Living a Blended Lifestyle

The new Samsung Notebook 9 Pen and Notebook 9 (2018) feature key improvements designed to support our personal and professional lives. These features include:

• Notebooks designed for mobility – both devices are among the thinnest in their class for easy portability, and working on-the-go. Made from Metal12™ complemented by Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) technology, both devices are lighter than most metal laptops, yet durable with the advanced MAO treatment of oxide coating on the surface to ensure to-do lists get finished regardless of where life takes you.
• Added security and convenience – both devices come with Windows Hello built-in for secure authentication through the fingerprint sensor without having to type in a password, while the Notebook 9 Pen also features an IR front-facing camera for facial recognition login through Windows Hello. Both PCs feature the Privacy Folder for storing sensitive data.
• High-quality performance – combining the best in portability with a high-quality display and strong performance, the RealView display brings a bright and accurate premium image, with lifelike colors and incredible brightness ideal for using the device both indoors and out. Both devices also feature the latest 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor and Samsung Dual Channel Memory for quick speeds to handle jobs like running multiple programs or viewing and rendering high-quality graphics without reduced performance or speed.
• Productivity and collaboration – Samsung offers several tools that appeal to tech-savvy professionals such as Samsung Link Sharing, which allows users to transfer videos, photos and documents stored on your PC to another computer or smart device*. Additional software solutions available on both devices include Samsung Message that enable users to send messages from their PC to contacts saved on their smartphone**, as well as preinstalled Voice Note for voice-activated note taking, and Studio Plus for custom content creation and editing.

Source: Samsung