Toyota

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Launches 66th (T-TEP)

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has unveiled the 66th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) facility alongside the STAR (Scholarship Program for Technical Education and Recognition) initiative at The Government Polytechnic, Bareilly

In alignment with its commitment to the ‘Skill India’ mission, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has unveiled the 66th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) facility alongside the STAR (Scholarship Program for Technical Education and Recognition) initiative at The Government Polytechnic, Bareilly. This launch aims to enhance the skills of students, particularly those from rural areas, and improve their employability through Toyota’s unique training programs.

Elevating Skill Development in India

The launch event was attended by notable figures including Mr. D C Verma, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Principal of Government Polytechnic Bareilly Mr. Narendra Kumar, Director of Commercial Toyota Mr. Shivam Gupta, and senior management from TKM. These initiatives reinforce TKM’s dedication to supporting the local manufacturing ecosystem and empowering communities through robust skill development programs.

The Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP)

T-TEP is a comprehensive, year-long program designed to provide final-year ITI/Diploma students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key features of the program include:

On-the-Job Training (OJT): Students gain hands-on experience at Toyota dealerships.
Specialized Training: Lead trainers receive advanced training from Toyota.
Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum is aligned with the latest technologies and needs of the Indian automotive industry.
To date, T-TEP has trained over 13,000 students, with more than 70% securing employment in various automotive companies and dealerships across India.

The STAR Scholarship Program

Launched last year, the STAR program aims to support economically challenged students in pursuing technical studies. Eligible students can receive scholarships of up to Rs 51,000 per year which is set to benefit students across 11 states and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, promoting inclusive education and social upliftment.

Commitment to Community and Industry

Mr. D C Verma praised TKM’s efforts, stating, “We applaud TKM’s commitment to empowering our youth with necessary skills to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Initiatives like T-TEP align perfectly with our mission to enhance employability and drive economic growth, particularly benefiting students from rural and economically challenged backgrounds.”

Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Governance at TKM, emphasized the transformative power of technical training. The STAR program is designed to empower deserving students by providing scholarships and essential skills for a successful career in the automotive sector.

A Significant Partnership

Mr. Narendra Kumar, Principal of Government Polytechnic Bareilly, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “The comprehensive training and scholarship support provided by TKM will empower our students to achieve their career aspirations. This exposure will benefit the students by enhancing their technical expertise and employability.

Mr. Shivam Gupta, Director of Commercial Toyota, expressed excitement about the program’s potential: “The Toyota Technical Education Program provides students with a cutting-edge curriculum covering automobile fundamentals, advanced technologies, Toyota’s core values, and essential soft skills. This comprehensive program boosts their employability, paving the way for a brighter future for the youth in our region.”

Investment in Infrastructure and Training

In collaboration with its dealer partner, TKM has invested over Rs 1.5 million to enhance infrastructure, develop e-learning content, and provide engines, transmissions, practice kits, and faculty training through its unique Train-The-Trainer approach. This investment ensures that students receive world-class training aligned with the latest industry standards.

Conclusion

Since its inception in 2006, T-TEP has continually evolved to meet the changing demands of the automotive industry, significantly contributing to the ‘Skill India’ mission. Through initiatives like T-TEP and the STAR program, TKM remains dedicated to nurturing talent, enabling students to reach their full potential, and contributing to the growth of both the automotive industry and the nation.

Overview of TKM

Equity Participation: Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) – 89%, Kirloskar Systems Limited (India) – 11%
Number of Employees: Approx. 6,000
Land Area: Approx. 432 acres
Building Area: 74,000 m²
Total Installed Production Capacity: Up to 342,000 units

Overview of TKM 1st Plant
Established: October 1997 (production started in December 1999)
Location: Bidadi
Products: Innova HyCross, Innova Crysta, Fortuner, Legender
Installed Production Capacity: Up to 132,000 units

Overview of TKM 2nd Plant
Start of Production: December 2010
Location: Bidadi
Products: Camry Hybrid, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hilux
Installed Production Capacity: Up to 210,000 units
By launching the 66th T-TEP facility and STAR Scholarship Program, Toyota Kirloskar Motor continues to lead in skill development, empowering the next generation of automotive professionals and supporting India’s economic growth.

Bentley Motors

Bentley Motors Mulliner Introduce Limited Edition

Bentley Motors Introduces Exclusive Limited edition trio consists of the Continental GT Azure V8, Flying Spur Azure V8, and Bentayga Azure V8 models


Bentley Motors is proud to unveil a trio of limited edition models: the Continental GT Azure V8, Flying Spur Azure V8, and Bentayga Azure V8. Hand built at Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, these exclusive models will be available only through Bentley Istanbul. The Bentley Mulliner Istanbul Silhouette Collection celebrates Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, renowned landmarks, and artistic beauty.

Collection celebrates the vibrant Turkish city’s unique blend of history, art, and modernity. Set to go on sale in early June, the collection pays tribute to the city’s historic landmarks including the Sultanahmet Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, and Bosphorus Bridges

Celebrating Istanbul’s Heritage

Working closely with Bentley Motors Istanbul, the craftspeople from Bentley’s Mulliner bespoke division have crafted a unique accent colour concept inspired by the Bosphorus Strait’s rich blue and turquoise hues and the open skies reflected in its waters.

Exterior Elegance

The collection features a striking Black Sapphire paint, serving as the perfect backdrop for sporty highlights in ‘Dragonfly’ blue. This blue accent graces the carbon side skirts and special Silhouette tread plates, creating a visually stunning exterior.

Interior Luxury

Inside, the Istanbul Silhouette embroidery showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridges, in Dragonfly Blue. These elegant touches adorn the headrests and rear cushions, which are covered in Imperial Blue and Beluga hides, inspired by the clear blue patterned tiles of the Sultanahmet Mosque.

Further distinguishing these models, ‘Piano Imperial Blue’ wood and natural ‘Galaxy’ stone feature on the front panel and infotainment area. A specially designed key box adds a personal touch, serving as a reminder of the car’s exclusivity and the remarkable location it represents.

A Blend of History and Modernity

Istanbul, strategically positioned where East meets West, is a city where European cultures blend with those of Asia, creating a unique mix of history, art, modernity, and innovation. The limited edition Mulliner models aim to appeal to discerning Turkish customers by blending the city’s rich cultural heritage with Bentley’s commitment to luxury and innovation.

Kerem Güven, General Manager of Bentley Motors Istanbul, commented, “We have seen the Bentley brand grow and prosper over the last 17 years in Istanbul. The market for bespoke craftsmanship has increased here, so we anticipate strong interest from our discerning customers for this exclusive collection, which celebrates our city’s unique blend of history, art, and modernity.”

Balazs Rooz, Director at Bentley Motors Europe, added, “Mulliner represents the pinnacle of the Bentley experience, with bespoke details that reflect a place, time or celebrate an occasion. Each limited edition car features beautiful interior decor, stitching details, and visuals of Istanbul, while also using sustainable materials and designs from the city itself, all carefully created in the Mulliner workshop in Crewe.”

Availability

Bentley Mulliner‘s Istanbul Silhouette Collection will go on sale in early June and will be available for viewing at the Bentley Istanbul showroom, represented by Doğuş Otomotiv, located at Maslak in the Doğuş Center. Additionally, a pop-up store will be open in Galaport.

Tata Motors Revolutionary Digital Marketplace

Tata Motors Revolutionary Digital Marketplace

Tata Motors Launches Fleet Verse: A Revolutionary Digital Marketplace for Commercial Vehicles


Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has unveiled a groundbreaking digital platform, Tata Motors Fleet Verse. This comprehensive and innovative marketplace is set to revolutionize the commercial vehicle industry by providing a seamless digital experience for discovering, configuring, acquiring, and financing Tata Motors’ extensive range of commercial vehicles.

Introducing Fleet Verse: A One-Stop Digital Solution

Fleet Verse is built on five foundational pillars, designed to consolidate all aspects of commercial vehicle ownership onto a single platform:

Smart Search Vehicle Discovery: Enriched with advanced semantic search features, this tool allows users to explore Tata Motors’ full range of over 900 models and 3000 variants. It ensures that users can easily find the vehicle that best suits their needs.

Product Configurator: By inputting specific business requirements, applications, and preferences, users receive tailored vehicle recommendations. This feature ensures that every customer finds the most appropriate vehicle for their unique needs.

3D Visualizer: Offering an immersive experience, the 3D Visualizer allows users to view vehicle exteriors and interiors in realistic detail. This tool helps customers to make informed decisions by virtually exploring the features of their selected vehicles.

Vehicle Online Finance: Fleet Verse partners with major financiers to provide fast and smooth finance applications and approvals. This ensures that users can secure financing for their vehicles quickly and conveniently.

Vehicle Online Booking: This feature enables users to book their desired vehicles with just a few clicks, ensuring prioritized fulfillment and simplifying the acquisition process.

A New Benchmark in the Industry

Mr. Bharat Bhushan, Head of Digital Business at Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, remarked, “The launch of Fleet Verse marks a new standard in the commercial vehicle sector by offering a comprehensive digital platform to our customers. Our goal is to simplify the commercial vehicle ownership journey, making it swift, intelligent, safe, and dependable. This initiative highlights our dedication to innovation and exceptional customer service, fostering growth and convenience for both dealers and customers through digitalized value chains. We are thrilled to introduce this transformative experience and are committed to continually enhancing the platform with new features and capabilities.”

Seamless Transactions and Enhanced Customer Experience

All transactions on Fleet Verse are seamlessly managed through Tata Motors’ vast dealership network across India, employing a direct-to-dealer payment system. This digital platform links dealerships and financiers directly with customers, simplifying every step from inquiry to vehicle delivery. It ensures a transparent, efficient, and hassle-free procurement process for both customers and Tata Authorized Dealerships, resulting in a mutually beneficial experience.

Looking Forward

Fleet Verse represents Tata Motors‘ commitment to driving growth and convenience in the commercial vehicle sector through digital innovation. By offering a streamlined, user-friendly platform that integrates all aspects of vehicle ownership, Tata Motors is poised to enhance the customer experience significantly. This initiative marks a significant step towards digital transformation in the commercial vehicle industry, setting new standards for customer service and operational efficiency.

NEW CONTINENTAL GT SPEED

NEW CONTINENTAL GT SPEED Launch Date Is 25 June

Bentley Motors is thrilled to confirm the launch date for the highly anticipated fourth-generation Continental GT Speed. Mark your calendars for 16:00 BST on Tuesday, 25 June, when the most powerful Bentley ever created will make its grand debut

The new Continental GT Speed represents a monumental leap forward for Bentley. Equipped with the revolutionary Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, this model delivers an astonishing 782 PS and 1000 Nm of torque. Alongside its powerful performance, the GT Speed offers an impressive 50-mile (80 km) electric-only range and a WLTP CO2 figure of under 50 g/km. This combination of power and efficiency makes it not only the most powerful Bentley road car in the company’s illustrious 105-year history but also a significant milestone in Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, aiming to lead sustainable luxury mobility.

Unmatched Performance and Innovation

The new Continental GT Speed boasts a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h), a feat proven with an unofficial “underwater speed record” set in the Ryfylke Tunnel in Norway—the world’s longest and deepest subsea road tunnel. A thrilling film documenting this achievement will be released at the launch.

The fourth-generation Continental GT Speed incorporates the latest advancements in chassis technology, making it the most dynamic Bentley to date. Key features include:

Active all-wheel drive with torque vectoring
Four-wheel steering
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)
48V electric active anti-roll control
Advanced dual-valve dampers
These innovations collectively create the first true “everyday supercar” in the luxury GT segment, delivering unparalleled driving dynamics without compromising on comfort or luxury.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Continental GT lineage has a storied history of transforming Bentley‘s business and redefining luxury performance. Since its original unveiling in 2002, the Continental GT has been pivotal in Bentley’s resurgence, leading to a ten-fold increase in sales and solidifying the brand’s status in the modern era.

The second-generation Continental GT, unveiled in Paris in 2010, introduced a new 4.0-litre V8 option in 2012, alongside the existing W12. The third generation, launched in 2018, set new benchmarks with a purpose-built platform, new engine, advanced suspension, innovative electrical architecture, and cutting-edge technology.

Handcrafted Luxury Meets Sustainable Innovation

Bentley continues its tradition of handcrafted luxury with the new Continental GT Speed, incorporating the finest materials and exceptional craftsmanship synonymous with the brand. This model exemplifies Bentley’s commitment to blending classic luxury with modern sustainability, setting a new standard for the future of luxury automotive design.

Join the Revolution

The launch of the new Continental GT Speed marks an exciting chapter in Bentley’s history. As the pinnacle of performance and sustainable luxury, this model is set to inspire the next generation of Bentley enthusiasts. Stay tuned for the live launch event on 25 June at 16:00 BST, where Bentley will unveil this groundbreaking vehicle and celebrate its remarkable achievements.

Automobili Pininfarina Wins 2024 RED DOT AWARD

Automobili Pininfarina Wins 2024 RED DOT AWARD

The Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2024 for the PURA Vision underscores Automobili Pininfarina’s commitment to design excellence and innovation


Automobili Pininfarina proudly announces that its PURA Vision design concept has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2024. This accolade adds to the growing list of international awards for the PURA Vision, including the iF Design 2024 product award and the 2024 International Design Awards.

A New Era of Luxury

The PURA Vision is not just a design concept; it represents a bold Luxury Utility Vehicle (LUV) that heralds a new era of luxury for Automobili Pininfarina. With its striking cab-rear proportions, the PURA Vision combines timeless beauty with exquisite detailing to create a dynamic identity that is unmistakably modern and luxurious.

Design Excellence Recognized

The Red Dot Award is one of the world’s most sought-after seals of design quality, recognizing excellence in design and innovation. This prestigious recognition highlights the brand’s dedication to crafting luxurious, forward-thinking vehicles that honor the legacy of iconic automotive designs while paving the way for the future.

Automobili Pininfarina Wins 2024 RED DOT AWARD
Automobili Pininfarina Wins 2024 RED DOT AWARD

Dave Amantea, Chief Design Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, expressed his pride in the achievement, stating: “Winning the Red Dot Award: Design Concept is a huge honour for the brand and testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

Inspired by Iconic Designs

The PURA Vision draws inspiration from several iconic designs of the past. Its low bonnet and high fenders are reminiscent of the 1947 Cisitalia, while the glasshouse design takes cues from the Alfa Romeo Superflow IV. The tri-opening pillarless lounge doors offer unrestricted access to a futuristic and luxurious 2+2 cabin, echoing the pillarless design of the Lancia Florida, styled by Battista Farina in the Fifties. This blend of historic inspiration and modern innovation embodies the PURA design philosophy that Automobili Pininfarina champions.

Attention to Detail

One of the standout features of the PURA Vision is its exterior “jewellery,” which includes a precisely engineered anodised aluminium beltline that elegantly traces an unbroken arc around the vehicle from the windscreen. This level of detail exemplifies the craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail for which Automobili Pininfarina is renowned.

About Automobili Pininfarina

Based in Cambiano, Italy, with a commercial office in Munich, Germany, Automobili Pininfarina is staffed by experienced automotive executives from luxury and premium car brands. Each vehicle is designed, engineered, and produced by hand in Italy, focusing on delivering exceptional experiences for discerning customers. The PURA design philosophy, which blends classic inspiration with cutting-edge technology, will continue to influence all future production cars from Automobili Pininfarina.

The Automobili Pininfarina Battista

Automobili Pininfarina’s flagship model, the Battista, is the most powerful car ever designed and built in Italy. It offers unparalleled performance, with a 0-100 km/h sprint time of under two seconds, 1,900 hp, and 2,340 Nm of torque. The Battista’s 120 kWh battery powers four electric motors, providing a combined WLTP range of up to 476 km (300 miles). Each of the no more than 150 examples of the Battista will be individually hand-crafted at the atelier in Cambiano, Italy, epitomizing extreme engineering and zero-emissions technology.

Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles Price Hike Of 2%

Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles Price Hike Of 2%

Tata Motors Announces Price Increase for Commercial Vehicles Starting July 2024


Tata Motors, a leading global automobile manufacturer, has announced a price increase for its commercial vehicles, effective from July 1, 2024. The price adjustment, up to 2%, is being implemented to counterbalance the escalating costs of commodities.

Impact of Rising Commodity Prices

The decision to raise prices comes as a response to the rising costs of essential commodities, which have significantly impacted production expenses. This price increase will be applicable across its entire range of commercial vehicles, with variations depending on the specific model and variant.

About Tata Motors

Tata Motors Limited, part of the USD 150 billion Tata Group, is a USD 44 billion organization that stands at the forefront of the global automobile industry. With listings on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE: 500570 and 570001) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), which is renowned for its extensive range of vehicles, including cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks, and buses.

Innovation and Sustainability

Tata Motors operates state-of-the-art design and R&D centers across India, the UK, the US, Italy, and South Korea. The company’s brand promise, “Connecting Aspirations,” drives its commitment to bringing new, innovative products to the market that captivate the imagination of GenNext customers.

2024 New V-Class Marco Polo from Mercedes-Benz

2024 New V-Class Marco Polo from Mercedes-Benz

The new V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance systems


Mercedes-Benz proudly presents the new V-Class Marco Polo, a smart, stylish, and versatile camper van that is perfect for everyday use. Available for order since January and now displayed in dealer showrooms, the V-Class Marco Polo offers a seamless blend of luxury and practicality, catering to both adventure seekers and daily commuters.

A Legacy of Excellence

The V-Class Marco Polo boasts a rich 40-year history, beginning with the first Marco Polo model based on the T1 van in 1984. Today, it continues this legacy with a design based on the V-Class MPV, offering modern amenities and a sleek, contemporary look.

Exterior Design

The new V-Class Marco Polo is an attractive eye-catcher, featuring the hallmark Mercedes-Benz design language. Depending on the equipment line, it showcases either an upright Mercedes star on the bonnet or a star pattern with a central Mercedes star in the radiator grille. Optional MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with High Beam Assist PLUS enhance visibility and add a finishing touch to the front end. The rear has also been updated with a new chrome trim strip, contributing to the vehicle’s refined aesthetic.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the V-Class Marco Polo to experience a luxurious feel-good space. The widescreen cockpit and advanced technology redefine ease of use. The MBUX multimedia system, coupled with a multifunction steering wheel with touch-control panels, ensures a seamless driving experience. Additional interior highlights include:

Widescreen cockpit with dual 12.3-inch color displays
MBUX augmented reality navigation
KEYLESS START
Wireless charging system for mobile devices
Ambient lighting with 64 color options

Customizable Luxury

The V-Class Marco Polo offers a range of customizable options to suit individual preferences. Special equipment such as luxury seats with massage function, a panoramic sliding sunroof, and fascinating ambient lighting allows you to tailor the interior to your liking. The spacious passenger compartment can be configured for maximum comfort and convenience.

Advanced Safety and Assistance Systems

The new V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance systems. Features like the Parking Package with a 360° camera, the EASY PACK electric sliding door/tailgate, and the Driving Assistance Package enhance safety and ease of use in various driving situations.

The EQV and V-Class Variants

The new lineup also includes the EQV and V-Class models, each offering unique features and innovations:

EQV: The EQV stands out with its modern design and excellent value. It features a radiator grille with an LED light strip, darkened tail lights, and optional 17- or 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Inside, the EQV offers high-quality materials and intuitive operation, with the MBUX multimedia system specially designed for electric driving.
V-Class: The V-Class offers a progressive look with a focus on luxury and performance. It includes attractive radiator grilles, a widescreen cockpit, and active assistance and safety systems. The V-Class is available in various equipment lines, each offering unique features and design elements.

Experience the V-Class Marco Polo Today

Designed for unforgettable camping experiences, the V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with innovative features that make it the ideal compact camper van. It includes a functional kitchen area, comfortable sleeping berths, and a cozy living area, all wrapped in a modern, stylish design. The vehicle also offers digital support and powerful technology, ensuring an exceptionally pleasant travel experience.

With Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control’s remote functions, the V-Class Marco Polo even becomes your smart home on the road. Whether you’re exploring the countryside or navigating city streets, this camper van offers the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and practicality.

2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition

2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition

Nissan Celebrates 55 Years of Z History with Heritage Edition Model


In a celebration of its rich sports car legacy, Nissan is marking 55 years of the iconic Z series with the release of the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition. This limited-edition model is designed to pay homage to the legendary S30-generation Datsun 240Z, first unveiled in 1969, featuring a unique color scheme and exclusive design elements reminiscent of the classic sports car.

Distinctive Design and Exclusive Features

The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition stands out with its exclusive New Sight Orange paint, a nod to the original S30’s iconic orange bodywork. The exterior is further distinguished by a new front fascia featuring more rectangular grille openings, 19-inch alloy wheels, and fender extensions, all of which harken back to the design of the historic 240Z. The striking orange bodywork is complemented by a black hood decal, bodyside decals, and special Heritage Edition decals around the Z emblems aft of the quarter windows.

Performance and Power

Based on the Z Performance grade, the Heritage Edition offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic. Under the hood, it boasts a powerful twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of a mechanical limited-slip differential, Nissan Performance brakes with red calipers, and other high-performance features that enhance both road and track driving experiences.

Honoring a Legacy

The Z series has a storied history of delivering driving excitement, and the Heritage Edition is the latest in a long line of special edition models that honor this tradition. With its blend of nostalgic design and modern performance, the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is a fitting tribute to 55 years of Z history, celebrating the enduring appeal and thrill of the iconic sports car.

A Cinematic Celebration

To visually commemorate this milestone, Nissan has released a cinemagraph of the Heritage Edition in action – an orange Nissan Z Heritage Edition driving on a bridge with a city skyline in the background. This dynamic image encapsulates the spirit of the Z series, blending past and present in a vivid display of automotive artistry.

N-VAN e

Honda Launch N-VAN e: Mini-EV in Japan

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is set to commence sales of its new commercial-use mini-EV, the N-VAN e:, in Japan on October 10, 2024


The N-VAN e: is an evolution of the gasoline-powered N-VAN, renowned for its versatility in both commercial and recreational use. This new EV variant retains key features such as a spacious cargo area, a flat low floor, and a high ceiling. Additionally, it includes unique EV benefits like a power output function and a quieter cabin. This marks a significant step for Honda as it expands its EV lineup, starting with the popular commercial-use light van model

Overview of the N-VAN e:

Through the integration of a large-capacity battery, a downsized eAxle, and a centralized layout of high-voltage components, the N-VAN e: achieves a practical range of 245 km (152 miles) in WLTC mode. Charging is efficient with approximately 4.5 hours for normal charging (6.0 kW output) and around 30 minutes for fast charging (50 kW output). The advanced battery cooling and heating system further ensures optimal performance across various temperatures, contributing to shorter charging times and extended range, especially in colder weather.

Model Variants

Honda offers four variants of the N-VAN e: to cater to diverse customer needs:

N-VAN e
Honda Launch N-VAN e: Interior Cabin

e: L4: The standard 4-seater model, suitable for a wide range of purposes. It includes a 7-inch LCD meter for displaying various information and comes in several two-tone exterior color options.

e: FUN: Based on the e: L4, this variant is tailored for leisure activities with a stylish design, natural beige interior, and additional features like fast charging capability and LED headlights.

e: G: Designed exclusively for commercial use, this single-seat variant maximizes cargo space by eliminating the passenger seat, increasing interior length by 95 mm and lowering the floor height by 120 mm compared to the e: L4 and e: FUN types.

e: L2: Featuring a front/rear tandem seat configuration on the driver side and a large pillar-less opening on the passenger side, this variant enhances accessibility for loading and unloading.

The e: G and e: L2 models will be available exclusively for lease through the Honda Fleet Sales Division and Honda’s online store, Honda ON.

Safety Features

All N-VAN e: variants come equipped with advanced safety and driver-assistive features as standard. Notably, the N-VAN e: is the first commercial-use light van in the market to offer side curtain airbags for both the driver and front passenger seats. It also introduces the Post-Collision Braking System, a first for mini-vehicles in Japan, to mitigate secondary damage in the event of a collision.

Safety functions available for e: L4/e: FUN:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
Collision Mitigation Throttle Control
Rear Collision Mitigation Throttle Control
Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Lead Car Departure Notification System
Traffic Sign Recognition
Auto High Beam Headlights
Parking Sensor System (Front/Rear)
Unintended Acceleration Mitigation

Safety functions available for e: G/e: L2:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
Auto High Beam Headlights
Parking Sensor System (Rear)
Honda CONNECT
The N-VAN e: supports Honda Total Care, a members-only support service offering features like setting departure times for optimal cabin temperature and battery charging, managing charging schedules to avoid peak electricity prices, and setting maximum charging levels to reduce battery degradation.

Pricing and Availability

The N-VAN e: is priced as follows (including 10% consumption tax):

e: L4: ¥2,699,400 (standard), ¥2,809,400 (with quick charging)
e: FUN: ¥2,919,400 (with quick charging)
e: G: ¥2,439,800 (standard), ¥2,549,800 (with quick charging)
e: L2: ¥2,549,800 (standard), ¥2,659,800 (with quick charging)

These prices are suggested retail prices and may vary based on sales companies. They include a spare tire, standard tools, and a jack, but exclude insurance premiums, registration costs, and optional features.

Honda and Mitsubishi New 50/50 Joint Venture

Honda and Mitsubishi New 50/50 Joint Venture

Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation to Establish New Joint Venture, ALTNA Co., Ltd.

Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) have unveiled plans to form a new 50/50 joint venture company named ALTNA Co., Ltd. (ALTNA), set to launch in July 2024. This initiative stems from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by both companies in October 2023, aiming to develop new business ventures to support the anticipated growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market and the push towards a decarbonized society.

Objectives of Honda and Mitsubishi

The new company, ALTNA, will tackle key challenges in the EV sector and contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society by focusing on:

Optimizing EV Usage Costs: Reducing the financial burden on EV users through innovative business models and services. Enhancing Battery Lifetime Value: Improving resource circulation in Japan by extending the life and utility of EV batteries. Supporting Renewable Energy Integration: Utilizing grid storage batteries to meet the rising demand for renewable energy and enhance grid stability.
By leveraging Honda’s advanced control and connected technologies for EVs and batteries alongside MC’s expertise in power generation and battery storage systems, ALTNA aims to offer new mobility services that lower the total cost of ownership for EV users and create sustainable power supply operations.

ALTNA’s primary business ventures will include:

1. Battery Leasing Business

ALTNA will collaborate with affiliated leasing companies of Honda and Mitsubishi to launch lease plans, starting with the Honda N-VAN e:, a new commercial-use mini-EV set to debut in October 2024. ALTNA will retain ownership of the batteries and continuously monitor their condition throughout the lease period, ensuring high reliability and predicting future battery deterioration.

Honda and Mitsubishi New 50/50 Joint Venture
Honda N-VAN e

Lease Plans:

N-VAN e: Value Plan: A closed-end lease plan offered exclusively through Honda’s online new vehicle store, Honda ON. This plan, available from October 10, 2024, will feature competitive pricing by considering the future repurposing of the batteries.
N-VAN e: Circular Lease Plan: In collaboration with Mitsubishi Auto Leasing Corporation (MALC), this economical closed-end lease plan will include comprehensive customer support through MALC’s EV consultation program, “EV4CHANGE,” addressing challenges from fleet electrification to charging infrastructure setup.

2. Battery Repurposing Business

ALTNA will repurpose end-of-life EV batteries for grid storage, providing supply-demand adjustment capacities to stabilize the grid and promote renewable energy use. The company will ensure the recycling of end-of-life grid storage batteries to support resource circulation-oriented manufacturing.

3. Smart Charging Business

ALTNA will offer EV charging plans that optimize electricity costs by using advanced energy-control technologies to avoid peak-hour charging. This smart charging system will automatically schedule EV charging during off-peak times, reducing costs and promoting the use of surplus renewable energy.

Additionally, ALTNA plans to explore Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) services, allowing EVs to supply electricity back to the grid, enhancing energy efficiency and supporting the electricity market.

Leadership Perspectives

Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President, and Representative Executive Officer of Honda, stated, “With the future popularization of EVs in mind, Honda is committed to establishing a comprehensive EV value chain, from raw material procurement to EV production, and the repurposing and recycling of EV batteries. We are thrilled to partner with MC, which shares our vision of a decarbonized society. By starting with the N-VAN e:, we aim to build a sustainable business foundation that not only focuses on EV sales but also optimizes the entire EV ecosystem.”

Katsuya Nakanishi, Representative Director, President, and CEO of MC, commented, “We are excited to collaborate with Honda, known for its technological excellence and dedication to resource circulation. Our new joint venture will introduce a novel business model that separates vehicle and battery ownership, integrating mobility, energy, services, and data. Through our broad industrial network and expertise, we will strive to achieve a carbon-neutral society by advancing the societal implementation of EVs.”

Conclusion

ALTNA Co., Ltd. represents a significant step towards advancing the EV market and fostering a sustainable, decarbonized future. By combining the strengths of Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation, ALTNA aims to revolutionize the EV landscape with innovative solutions and services that enhance user experience and environmental impact.