MT Bureau

Hyundai Motor India (HMI), beating the slowdown, increased in 2019 its market share by 1 percent to 17.3 percent and contributed about 15 percent to the total volume of Hyundai Motor Corporation. The company begins 2020 with the resolve to offer premium experience through world-class products including the newly-launched Aura, a compact sedan having several first-in-segment features.

Compact segment in India accounted for 338,000 units, about 11 percent of industry volumes, in 2019. HMI’s share was 5.5 percent of this; with Aura it hopes to raise its position further. Developed at an investment of INR 1,000 crore the vehicle has four engine types with manual and AMT options. Hyundai is segregating its offering in the compact sedan segment with Xcent for taxis and Aura for private vehicle customers. The ex-showroom price of Aura ranges from INR 5.59 lakh to INR 9.22 lakh.

S S Kim, MD and CEO, HMI, said the all new Aura marks the industry’s first and most significant launch of the Decade 2020. It offers versatile characteristics, “exhibiting elegant styling and bold character form to deliver a fresh interpretation to Hyundai’s signature design language of  ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ specifically crafted for progressive urban and millennial customers.” It will be India’s only sedan equipped with BS-VI diesel 1.2Litre Eco TORQ engine that offers improved power and performance. Aura will be a game changer product creating a new excitement and establishing new benchmarks in the automobile industry, he said.

HMI is also looking at options to introduce MPV and EV which will be developed totally for the Indian market. Globally, Hyundai Motor Company has been offering all kinds of new mobility solutions right from EVs, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cells. The company hopes to sell about 10,000 fuel cell cars during this calendar year, Kim said.  

Enthusiastic Powertrain
Aura comes with four engine options: 1.2 Kappa Dual VTVT petrol engine that gives 83PS power at 6,000 rpm and the same with CNG that gives 69PS power at 6,000 rpm; the third is 1.2 Eco TORQ Diesel engine that spews 75PS at 4,000 rpm; and the fourth is 1.0 Turbo GDi petrol engine that delivers 100PS at 6,000 rpm.

The powertrain of Aura has several firsts, including the 1.0 BS-VI T-GDI Petrol and 1.2 BS-VI EcoTorq diesel engine. While the 1 litre petrol engine is mated with 5-speed manual transmission only, the other engines get five-speed manual and AMT.

Aura’s turbo petrol engine option, first in the segment, is based on its success in the recently-introduced compact SUV, the Venue. Interestingly more than 90 percent of petrol version and more than 45 percent of the total sales of Venue comes from the variant powered by this engine. Therefore, the company is replicating this in Aura. However, there is only one variant.

The Kappa 1.0 T-GDI engine, developed by Hyundai Motor Group's R&D division, delivers a perfect combination of performance, fuel efficiency and compliance with emission norms under BS-VI fuel guidelines, as it injects fuel at high pressure of 250 bar. It has a compact layout as the exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head, volume of water jacket is higher (than MPi engines) to improve cooling and to reduce the exhaust gas temperature. The intake port is designed to be straighter than in conventional engines. The piston ring comes with Si-DLC (silicon doped hydrogenated Diamond-Like Carbon) coating to reduce friction. All these innovations help improve fuel efficiency at higher RPM ranges.

The Eco TORQ Diesel BS-VI Engine has 2,000 bar fuel injection system that allows better combustion and fuel efficiency. Emissions are controlled through LNT DPF (Lean Nox Trap and Diesel Particulate Filter), validated for Indian conditions. Low-end torque is improved by 10 percent to give better drivability in city traffic.

The cutting-edge technology of the BS-VI diesel Aura is capable of running on BS-IV and BS-VI fuels. Therefore, the non-availability of BS-VI fuel is not a concern for the company, Kim said.

The crankshaft bearing with optimized thickness and material reduces friction and allows smooth driving even in city traffic, and enhances engine life. The transmission has been subjected to rigorous durability tests for ensuring high gear strength and better clutch friction materials to offer better performance at high speeds, off-road, hillsides and harsh climatic conditions. The new curved timing chain reduces friction further and the new piston design improves durability and fuel efficiency.

For comfort and seamless driving experience the new car comes with Smart AMT. It uses electric motors for gear shifting and clutch operations, guided by a separate control unit. Electric motor control offers superior durability when compared to hydraulic actuator, with faster actuator response leading to smooth shifting of gears.

Taking through the design elements of Aura, Ju Hyun Ha, Designer, HMC, said the concept is to build a new compact sedan with vibrancy of positivity and innovation of technology for the new Indian millennia.  Aura has been specifically developed targeting Indian customers and the development falls in four categories of stunning and modern design, premium and spacious interiors, convenience and technology, with advanced and enthusiastic powertrain.

The development direction of the vehicle is defined by 'Vibrance of Positivity' and 'Spirit to Go the Distance' of Indian millennials. It is developed specifically as an elegant sedan dedicated to young-at-heart customers.

Styling

Modern design of the car is conveyed through a unique design that gives the vehicle a versatile characteristic exhibiting elegant styling and bold character. It delivers a fresh interpretation of the company’s signature design language of 'Sensuous Sportiness.' The vehicle’s front profile showcases unique Twin Boomerang Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) integrated with Premium Satin Front Grille with Projector type Head Lamps and Fog Lamps.

Modern and sporty design along with the image, unique DRL and 3-dimensional mesh design decorate the front, while it gets a distinctive rear design by emphasizing wide stance with sporty bumper design. The sporty side profile and solid wheel-arches created by two character lines give the car the luxurious voluminous look.

The side profile indicates unique sportiness through its coupe-like styling and luxurious volume and solid wheel-arches created by two unique character lines with R15 diamond cut type alloy wheels. It has a distinctive rear design with emphasis on wide stance, robust sporty bumper design and LED tail lamp with stylish 3-dimensional outer lens. The trunk lid garnish of chrome strip with glossy black wrap-around makes it the most stylish sedan in its segment.

Ride And Handling

Aura has been given a well-balanced ride and handling performance compared to segment position. The Turbo GDi version has agile and reliable handling with quick settled comfort. Interestingly, a higher capacity motor is deployed in the steering system that gives quicker response while the increased steering ratio gives better feedback. The suspension spring stiffness has been increased for controlled body motion and damper valve tuned for improved round feel.

Advanced Safety
Hyundai AURA is built on strong body structure with integrated 65 percent Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) + High Tensile Steel (HSS) application that ensures light body weight with high strength. About 23 percent of the body is made of AHSS, 42 percent HSS and the rest mild steel.

The vehicle’s rigid structure is equipped with advanced ring structure application allowing increased static and dynamic stiffness for superior safety, low NVH and improved handling. This structure has been provided at engine room, B and C pillars for better rigidity. Higher reinforcements are added in the side structure and frontal area for improved crash-worthiness. The underbody load path is distributed across the body for better crash energy absorption. These advanced safety systems provide improved active and passive safety for stress-free driving and better crash energy absorption.

To contain NVH, the engine, transmission and roll mounts have been tuned further while road noise is controlled by optimising sound insulation methods using acoustic baffles and cowl panel reinforcement, and by enhancing structural stiffness.

Hyundai Aura has been tested and evaluated over 7,500 km across India to assess its reliability and durability with different powertrain configurations on diverse road conditions and climatic environment. Good noise Isolation and enhanced sealing for low NVH, with silent cabin, enhances driving pleasure.

Comfort, Convenience
HMI has been creating products that suit the needs of the young. This philosophy is evident in Aura's comfort and convenience features. Its interior space and comfortable cabin provide adequate space for the versatile urban commuter. The car is equipped with convenient technological features like Advanced 8.0 touchscreen infotainment with smart phone connectivity (Android Auto and Apple Car Play) along with Arkamys Premium Sound, 5.3 digital speedometer cum multi-information display and wireless charging. It has a unique ‘driving rear view monitor’ for rear view display on screen while driving forward, iBlueAudio remote smart PhoneApp, cabin with bronze colour inserts and a spacious rear cabin.

Aura has the ‘Wonder Warranty’ with options of 3 Years/100,000 km, 4 Years /50,000 km or 5 Years /40,000 km along with road-side assistance. (MT)

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Mumbai-based automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has introduced the new Bolero range with prices starting INR 799,000 (ex-showroom), with the new top-end B8 variant priced at INR 969,000 (ex-showroom). The new Bolero Neo starts at INR 849,000 (ex-showroom), with the new top-end N11 variant at INR 999,000 (ex-showroom).

With a history of 25 years and over 1.6 million customers, the Bolero remains a versatile SUV, navigating diverse terrains from city streets to rural landscapes, offering adaptability and value.

The new Bolero features a new grille, fog lamps and diamond-cut alloy wheels. Inside, the Bolero offers a new 17.8 cm touchscreen infotainment & music system, steering-mounted controls and leatherette upholstery with better seat comfort. The RideFlo ride and handling tech gives better stability and control, with improved suspension. The Bolero is powered by the mHAWK75 engine delivering power of 55.9 kW and 210 Nm torque, with body-on-frame construction. The company has also introduced a new Stealth Black colour, along with existing colours.

On the other hand, the new Bolero Neo combines toughness with urban style. It features a sleek new grille with horizontal accents and dark metallic grey R16 alloy wheels. Interior theme options are Lunar Grey and Mocha Brown. Comfort features include leatherette upholstery and better seat ergonomics. It has a 22.8 cm infotainment system, a rear-view camera and a USB C-type charging port. The RideFlo tech, along with MTV-CL and Frequency Dependent Damping (FDD), ensure smooth rides. It is powered by the mHAWK100 engine delivering power of 73.5 kW and 260 Nm torque and includes cruise control and Multi-Terrain Technology (MTT) for better traction. New colours include Jeans Blue and Concrete Grey, plus three dual-tone options.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, Chief Executive Officer – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Bolero has stood the test of time, earning its place as one of India’s most versatile and tough SUVs for over 25 years. Building on this enduring legacy, the new Bolero range has been thoughtfully designed to meet the aspirations of a dynamic and rapidly evolving New India. With a perfect blend of toughness, contemporary styling, enhanced comfort, and modern features, the new Bolero and Bolero Neo deliver a powerful SUV experience that shines equally in urban environments and challenging terrains.”

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JCBL Armouring Solutions, a provider of armouring solutions in India, is entering the luxury car protection segment. The company stated it has worked on premium vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover and Defender, giving protection while maintaining vehicle performance.

India’s luxury protected vehicle segment is reporting growth at a 15–20 percent CAGR. JCBL stated its technology provides ballistic protection while preserving vehicle elegance and dynamics. The company serves VVIPs, celebrities and individuals with high net worth. It focuses on lightweight armouring that keeps strength, agility and comfort after the protection process.

Each vehicle is tested at accredited labs, including the NFSU Ballistic Research and Testing Lab and complies with certification standards from VRDE, ICAT and DRDO. The company’s R&D centre is approved by DSIR and it holds a DIPP license.

Rushank Doshi, CEO, JCBL Armouring Solutions, said, "Luxury should never come at the cost of safety. We are redefining secure mobility in India’s luxury car segment, ensuring top-tier protection without compromising elegance, performance, or craftsmanship. This reflects JCBL Group’s commitment to excellence, innovation and world-class engineering."

JCBL Armouring Solutions also reinforces vehicle components, including suspension and braking systems, to maintain performance and dynamics. Security features include run-flat tyres, bullet-resistant glasses and a reinforced structure. The company offers aftersales services, including maintenance, upgrades and training for customers on handling protected vehicles.

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Kia India has announced a significant change to its leadership team, naming Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

As the new CSO, Park will head Kia India’s sales strategy, focusing on sustainable growth, improving operational efficiency and expanding the brand’s market reach. He brings over 28 years of international automotive experience, having held key leadership positions at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and India.

Cho, in his role as CBO, will be responsible for crafting business strategies, overseeing production planning and export logistics, leading cross-functional teams and forging strategic alliances to ensure operational excellence. He has over 32 years of leadership experience from global roles in Australia, the UK and Europe.

Sunhack Park, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Joonsu Cho, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

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RattanIndia Enterprises-owned Revolt Motors, a leading electric motorcycle brand, is strengthening its leadership team and has appointed Raghava Rao as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO).

Rao, a seasoned industry leader, comes with over two decades of diverse experience across the automotive sector, spanning two-wheelers, tractors, three-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

Prior to joining Revolt Motors, he has held senior leadership positions at Kinetic Engineering, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Piaggio Vehicles and TI Clean Mobility (Montra Electric).

Roy Kurian Joins Revolt Motors As President

Rao has expertise in channel sales, customer support, customer experience and market insights, with a proven track record of driving business growth and customer success.

Anjali Rattan, Chairperson, RattanIndia Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Raghava Rao to the Revolt family. His deep expertise in the automotive industry and proven leadership across multiple business functions will play a crucial role in accelerating our growth journey and further strengthening Revolt’s position as India’s No.1 electric motorcycle brand.”

Rao is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (General Management Program), holds a B.Tech degree from BITS Pilani, and a PGCSM from XLRI Jamshedpur.

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