Mercedes Benz CLA Production vehicle # 001 at Kecskemét

Mercedes-Benz seems to be wasting no time in bringing the CLA to the masses. The first production vehicle rolled off the exclusive assembly line at the Kecskemét plant in Hungary. The Kecskemét plant was inaugurated in March 2012 and has since then been producing the B-Class. The Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban was in attendance as was the plant manager Frank Klein.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche , Head of Mercedes-Benz cars explained why the CLA was so promptly going into production following its premeiere as the Concept Style Coupe. “The CLA is based on the Concept Style Coupe, which we introduced last year. The most frequent comment by far was ‘Please put this car into series production.’ That’s precisely what we are doing now.” Zetsche said.

The CLA-Class is a four door coupe with styling drawn from the bigger CLS Coupe and is based on Daimler’s MFA platform, sharing it’s architecture with the A-Class, B-Class and a yet to be launched compact SUV. The CLA is the world’s most aerodynamic production vehicle with a drag coefficient of 0.22! Read more about the CLA-Class here or watch Lewis Hamilton take the CLA-Class for a spin!

Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 01

Polish racing driver Robert Kubica tested the Mercedes AMG C-Coupé at Valencia’s Circuit Ricardo Tormo today. After the life threatening accident in Ronde di Andora rally driving a Super 2000 spec Skoda Fabia through which the crash barrier penetrated and nearly severed his arm, Kubica made a successful return to competitive racing in September 2012 when he won the Ronde Gomitolo Di Lana rally in a WRC car.

Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 02

Kubica said “My first day of testing in a DTM car was great fun and I learned a lot about the series and the DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé. The first installation lap was in the dry, then a few heavy showers of rain came down and we had to wait for the track to dry out. All in all, it was a good experience, getting to know the car in different weather conditions. I was able to get to grips with the DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé and felt very comfortable in the car, even though after my long break it meant adjusting to the high downforce that a state-of-the art DTM race car produces. I’m very pleased with my performance on this first day of DTM testing and had no problems whatsoever in the car.”

Robert Kubica has said that he looks forward to returning to Formula 1 and the Valencia test might well be the first stepping stone. The Mercedes AMG C Coupe with its high downforce will give Kubica a taste of a ‘proper’ racing car on tarmac. “I’m really pleased that Mercedes-Benz is giving me the opportunity to test their DTM car and I’m looking forward to getting acclimatised to a race car again. It will be in proper testing conditions, on a permanent circuit, and it’s important because the DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé has good levels of downforce.” he said yesterday.

Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 03Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 08

Kubica also adds that the future isn’t clear yet. “It’s still too early to make any statements about my future because of this one test. I’m just looking forward to tomorrow and we’ll see what happens after that.” he added.

Robert Kubica has also made it clear that after the numerous surgeries, the issue is not the strength of his arm, but the rotational movement needed to handle the wheel in confined spaces. “The bigger problem is the limitation in the supination and pronation of the arm and the limited functionality in my fingers” he said.

Robert Kubica, Toto Wolff : Testing at Valencia, Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 04

Kubica with Mercedes’ new motorsport boss Toto Wolff

Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 06Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 05Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 09Robert Kubica Testing Valencia Mercedes AMG C Coupe DTM 07

The McLaren F1’s successor leaves us exponentially more stunned with every image and video that McLaren’s puts out on the web. The P1 also known to the media for a while as P12 is expected to be powered by the MP4-12C’s V8 but churning out in excess of 800bhp with an additional 200 bhp expected from the KERS system.

McLaren has also been adamant that the supercar will be more about an all round capable car with superb handling rather than just stake a claim to being the fastest production car. ‘Our aim is not necessarily to be the fastest in absolute top speed but to be the quickest and most rewarding series production road car on a circuit,’ says McLaren Automotive Managing Director Antony Sheriff. ‘It is the true test of a supercar’s all round ability and a much more important technical statement. Our goal is to make the McLaren P1 the most exciting, most capable, most technologically advanced and most dynamically accomplished supercar ever made.’

McLaren P1 Production Testing 01

The video shows various P1 prototypes with codenames starting with XP being tested at various locations round the world. Of course, the obligatory engineers with laptops make an appearance too, in slow motion, mind you.

McLaren has used computational fluid dynamics aerodynamic modelling and custom Formula 1 derived dynamics simulation tools to ensure the aerodynamic supremacy of the P1 even before the first prototype was built. The P1 will also house a number of bespoke components including a highly-efficient braking system from Akebono, Pirelli high performance tyres and as you would expect from McLaren, Mobil 1 provides cooling, lubrication and hydraulic fluids.

McLaren P1 Production Testing 03

The new images also bring to light rear wing that was not present in the design study presented at the Paris Motor Show in 2012.

McLaren P1 Production Testing 02

McLaren P1 Design Study Paris Motor Show 03McLaren P1 Design Study Paris Motor Show 01

McLaren P1 design study presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show

2012 Honda CR-V for the US Market 01

Honda’s fourth gen CR-V should reach Indian shores next month. The engines options would initially include the 2.0 litre and the 2.4 litre petrol mills with transmission options being 5 speed auto or a six manual. There is currently no information on when the diesel mill ( expected to be the Earth Dreams Technology 1.6 liter i-DTEC engine) will power CR-Vs in India. Europe is expected to get the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel mill in September 2013. Honda mentions the use of a new high-strength material in the cylinder head that has enabled Honda to create the world’s lightest aluminium open deck 1.6-litre diesel engine.

The 2.4 litre petrol engine puts out 185bhp and 22.5kgm of torque and is mated to a five-speed transmission. The CR-V will be assembled locally enabling a competitive price.

2012 Honda CR-V for the US Market 03

Honda CR-V with 1.6 liter i-DTEC diesel engine : AlloysHonda CR-V with 1.6 liter i-DTEC diesel engine : Shark fin antennaHonda CR-V with 1.6 liter i-DTEC diesel engine : ORVMHonda CR-V with 1.6 liter i-DTEC diesel engine : Headlamps

Mr. Pravin Shah, Chief Executive, Automotive Division, M&M Ltd with the Verito Executive edition

Mahindra wants a pie of the segment slightly higher than what the Verito was destined for. The Verito Executive Edition will enable that by way of cushy Italian leather on the seats, steering and door inserts. The Executive edition also gets a touch enabled navigation system, and bluetooth enabled audio system. On the exterior, alloy wheels, body decals and Executive edition badging and blue vision headlamps set the Verito Executive edition apart.

Speaking on the launch of the Verito Executive edition, Pravin Shah, Chief Executive, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “The Verito Executive edition will add a premium and aspiration quotient to the sedan. Together with the proposition of space and mileage which the Verito is already known for, this new edition will provide premium interior and exterior features to our customers. The features of the Verito Executive edition have been carefully chosen to meet the increasing customer demand and aspiration for a stylish sedan. This will clearly take the Verito to the next level in terms of style, premiumness, convenience and comfort. The Verito Executive edition thus further elevates the status of the Verito Man.”

Mr. Shah further added, “The New Look Verito already offers class-leading space and comfort, excellent mileage, a high performance engine, and a solid build quality which handles Indian roads effortlessly. With the launch of the Executive edition in the New Year, customers can now opt for an even more premium offering at a very sensible price”

The Verito Executive edition has been competitively priced at Rs 7.75 lacs ex-showroom Delhi.

Mercedes-Benz has found an impromptu brand ambassador for the new CLA in Lewis Hamilton. Kind of fitting if you think about it, the intended market for the CLA being successful youngsters. Hamilton said the CLA was ‘elegant inside, I quite like it’, ‘the brakes are quite sharp’ and ends his mini review of the CLA with a ‘I hear this has the best aerodynamics as well, I’m hoping they surely do the same in my car’, my car as in the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 W04 to be unveiled on the 4th of February. Not to state the obvious, but yes, he was kidding.

Next in line of the series of public quotes of mutual appreciation of each other’s skills by Hamilton and Alonso, Hamilton mentions in the video that Alonso will be the driver to look out for. He also mentions in the video that he would be working closely with Nico Rosberg to ‘try and help the car to push in one direction‘. Rosberg and Hamilton are old mates, and karting buddies and the words ‘one direction’ might just mean that there will be no No.1 driver in the new Mercedes AMG Petronas team and the team would works towards making the car work for both drivers without preferential treatment.

Hamilton’s association with Mercedes-Benz started when he was 13 and now he is a 100% under the Mercedes-Benz umbrella. Here’s to an exciting F1 season ahead!

Read our design & tech story on the new Mercedes-Benz CLA here.

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Nissan Micra Low Cost 01

Autocar India has another scoop up on their site, and this time its a low cost Micra caught on camera. Taped up taillamps indicate a new design, while Autocar also says the front headrests will be swapped for a single piece design integrated with the seat in addition to various other cost cutting measures. The whole package could cost as much as Rs. 70,000 less.

Rolls Royce Wraith Teaser 01

“Rolls-Royce Wraith will draw superlatives when it is unveiled in Geneva” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to an audience of around 100 Rolls Royce dealers. “Expect the boldest design, the most dramatic performance and the most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.”

From what we can we see in this first (Ed-the smoky Spirit of Ecstasy does not count!) teaser image from the marque, we have to say, it is stunning. Unlike the subtle coupe that is the Phantom Coupe, the Wraith’s lines strongly are flatteringly coupe-ish and for a change, the superlatives used in the press release – Flowing lines hint at the extraordinary power and dynamic promise – seem well deserved.

“Wraith alludes to an almost imperceptible but powerful force, something rare, agile and potent, a spirit that will not be tethered to the earth. It is the perfect name for our new model.” said Muller-Otvos on the name of the new model. The word has its origins in Scotland and was not very popular until used by Rolls Royce for its 1938 Wraith. The 1938 Wraith was also a car with ‘razor sharp’ lines for its time and had some of the most stunning coachwork built on it by the various luxury coachbuilders of that time. The 1938 Wraith was also the last and most modern prewar Rolls Royce.

1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith Erdmann & Rossi - museerrb on flickr.com

Image Courtesy of museerrb on Flickr

As pointed out by Muller-Otvos, expect the Wraith to be the most powerful Rolls Royce ever, powered by the 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 with power bumped from 563bhp to well over 600bhp! The Wraith has been spotted on the Nurburgring testing, expect this luxury yatch to be more than capable of handling curves with abandon.

Rolls Royce also adds that the Wraith is inspired by the Honourable Charles Rolls – the consummate gentleman racer driven by a pioneering spirit and lust for adventure.

Toto Susie Wolff DTM 2012 Zandvoort 01

Toto Wolff with his wife Susie Wolff

It hasn’t been more than 24 hours since the internet was abuzz with rumours of Toto Wolff moving to Mercedes-Benz to take up the responsibilities of Nobert Haug who left Mercedes-Benz last year. Now both companies have made official announcements. Toto Wolff will be relinquishing his seat on the Williams Grand Prix Holdings PLC Company’s Board of Directors but will retain his shareholding. He comes on board as a new shareholder and Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd. Fellow Austrian Niki Lauda, Chairman of Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix Ltd. is also a new shareholder.

“Mercedes is one of the most important participants in motorsport worldwide. I am not only a big fan, but also a longstanding friend and enthusiast of the brand. I am looking forward to the challenge and, along with preparing for a successful racing season, also want to focus on the targeted promotion of new talent.” said Wolff.

Toto Wolff has seen a couple of victories in various touring car championships. His position at Mercedes-Benz comes courtesy of his success as an entrepreneur, investor and motorsport manager. Toto Wolff owns a 49% stake in HWA AG, the company that runs Mercedes-Benz’s DTM programme. His acquisition of shares from Williams Grand Prix Holdings PLC was in November 2009. In July 2012, Toto Wolff became a member of that team’s management, filling in for Sir Frank Williams himself on numerous occasions

Speaking about Toto Wolff’s departure Sir Frank Williams commented; ‘’I would like to thank Toto for his hard work, dedication and commitment to the team during his time as a Director of the Company. He was a key support to me as Executive Director last season, deputising at a number of races when I was unable to attend. However, positions such as the one offered to him by Mercedes do not come around often. Toto has a long history with them and I certainly was not going to stand in the way of him accepting this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

“I am leaving Williams on good terms and I will miss the team and friends I have made there. I’d also like to wish Frank and the whole of Williams the best of luck for the future”, Wolff added.

The Mercedes AMG Petronas team has a lot going in its favour this season with Hamilton on board. Together with Ross Brawn, Lauda and Wolff will complete the management of the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 racing team.

“As an entrepreneur, investor and motorsport manager, Toto Wolff has proven that this sport runs in his blood; at the same time, he is also well aware of the economic necessities of the business. With Toto Wolff, we have gained for our Formula 1 team not only an experienced motorsport specialist, but also a longstanding enthusiast of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Together with him and Niki Lauda, we will further develop our motorsport activities and guide our Silver Arrows into the next era,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG.

Team Principal and majority shareholder Sir Frank Williams will continue to oversee the running of the Company with Toto’s responsibilities being shared between members of the Board’s Executive Committee.

Jaguar XF Assembled Pune 01

It has been a while since we posted about Jaguar Land Rover’s plans to assemble more vehicle in India. JLR has finally announced that the assembly of the Jaguar XF sedan has commenced in India. JLR also announced a new entry level variant priced at Rs. 44.5 lakhs (ex-showroom Mumbai pre octroi). The new variant will be called the 2.2-litre Diesel ‘Luxury’ and powered by the 2.2 i4 Td diesel mill which is good for 190 PS at 3500 rpm and a peak torque of 450 Nm at 2000 rpm.

Features on the ‘Luxury’ model include rear view camera, TV Tuner, navigation System, front passenger seat away, touch screen, gear shifting paddles, full size spare wheel, electric sunroof, rear screen electric blind. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through the eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jaguar XF Land Rover Freelander 2 Assembled Pune 02

Rohit Suri, Vice President, Jaguar Land Rover India said: “Our best-selling models in India are the Land Rover Freelander 2 and the Jaguar XF and this has driven the move to build these products locally. The Jaguar XF has become very popular with our customers due to its sports car performance, outstanding luxury saloon elegance and contemporary individual styling. Its inspired engineering and technological innovation have helped it to win more than 100 awards internationally. So we are now delighted to offer this car as a locally built product with a new engine for this market, which will enable us to provide our customers with a wider choice of competitively priced models.”

Jaguar Land Rover India recently announced a 32% growth in wholesales in 2012 at 2393 cars compared with 1813 cars in the previous year helped by the Land Rover Freelander 2 which is the only other JLR model being assembled locally. As reported earlier, Tata hopes to capture 20% of the Indian luxury car market by making Jaguar Land Rover products in India competitive price wise.