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Despite the not-so-bright scenario, major foreign manufacturers made their announcements, their plans and operations on a very positive and optimistic note. This clearly reflected the future potential of the Indian automobile market.
As soon as the satin cover on the Eco Sport was removed, Alan Mullaly bent down and kissed the Eco Sport! "It was in this very room, two years ago that I launched the Figo!," said Alan emotionally, no doubt hoping for a repeat performance from the Eco Sport. He also promised that Ford would bring out a total of eight models by 2015. The new Ford Fiesta and the Eco Sport SUV being the first two.
The new Camry has undergone many changes while retaining its top of the class quietness, superb comfort, spaciousness and safety. The new Camry has dual zone A/c with rear A/c vents, a smart entry system with a stop/start push button. Audio, MID and bluetooth phone controls switches on the staring wheel. HID headlamps with auto-levelling and washers, front and rear parking sensors.
One of the most exciting off-road vehicles is a Quad. A four-wheel motorbike. Sounds crazy, that is because it’s a brand new invention. It is a go-anywhere vehicle but is not street legal. One of the best-known Quad manufacturers is Polaris. It is a true all-terrain vehicle- (ATV). Over the years, it has found favour with the police, fire department, forest rangers, farm purposes, as well as ambulances throughout the world. It is also the perfect recreational and utility toy for big boys.
Another SUV on show was the RiO. Based on a Daihatsu (Japanese) platform but sourced from Zotye Group (China), it is being marketed by Premier (former Premier Automobiles Ltd.) India! What is it? "It is a segment creation and perfect for those who want a truly different vehicle and driving experience", said Maitreya Doshi, CMD Premier Ltd.
Hyundai, the country’s largest exporter and second largest manufacturer, launched the sixth-generation Sonata. An extremely good-looking car, the new Sonata is crafted on the principles of fluidic sculpture. It has six airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, rear new cameras and smart key with a push-button start, cruise control paddle shift, 10-way power adjustable seat for the driver. The new Elantra is sporty, stylish and also built on the fluidic sculpture. It is available in 1.8-litre petrol dual VTVT and 1.6-litre VGT diesel, in both automatic and manual transmission. The motor bike manufacturers are looking backwards. Royal Enfield did not have much trouble because the Bullet has changed a lot over the years but still retains its nostalgic character. The latest is the 500-CC, single-cylinder Thunderbird. Piaggio has introduced their most famous and iconic product, the Vespa. It needs no introduction because the Vespa has been on Indian streets for more than half a century. The new avatar in chrome and sparkling polish is eye- catching and breathtaking. Even though the looks are retro, the technology is contemporary. Another old timer, Triumph, has introduced some state-of-the-art technology motor bike, the Bonneville and Tiger are from the past whereas the Speed Triple, Street Triple, Storm and Daytona are the new entries.
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