Mahindra’s Revolutionary iMAXX Telematics Connected Vehicle Tech Set To Transform Indian Vehicle Fleet Management

 * Mahindra’s iMAXX offers unprecedented predictability & control over the transporter’s fleet, leading to higher profits and a hassle-free ownership experience

* Featured as Standard Equipment in the BS6 compliant range of BLAZO X HCVs, FURIO ICVs & LCVs and CRUZIO Buses with free subscription package

* New Telematics platform deploys cutting-edge telemetry technology to provide powerful insights on vehicle health and performance

Mahindra Truck and Bus (MTB), a part of the USD 19.4 billion Mahindra Group, today announced the launch of its revolutionary connected vehicle technology, Mahindra iMAXX. This new Telematics platform is fitted into Mahindra’s BS6 emission norms compliant CV range, including the BLAZO X range of HCVs, FURIO range of ICVs & LCVs and CRUZIO range of buses. This new technology promises to further strengthen the value proposition of the MTB range for the company’s discerning customers.

The new Mahindra iMAXX technology, coupled with the tried & tested BS6 engines (mPOWER and MDI Tech) with FUELSMART technology and robust aggregates, retaining over 90% of the parts of the erstwhile BS4 vehicles, will help fleet owners and transporters transition to the BS6 ownership experience smoothly and efficiently. 

Speaking on the occasion, Jalaj Gupta, Business Head, Commercial Vehicles, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “At Mahindra we are the pioneers in Connected Vehicle technology, which has become even more important in the new BS6 era, given the increase in electronics based vehicle controls.”

Mr. Gupta added, “The Mahindra iMAXX Telematics solution, is based on next generation telematics technology and is at the heart of our brand promise -HAR CHEEZ GUARANTEE KE SAATH, for our BS6 vehicles. It is an intelligent fleet telematics solution which deploys cutting-edge telemetry technology like Dual CAN (Controller Area Network), 4G and other leading digital technologies, including Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, to provide powerful insights on vehicle health and performance. This helps in maximizing returns for Fleet Owners.”

With the right telematics platform, like Mahindra iMAXX, enhanced fleet operations efficiency leads to higher asset productivity/ fleet utilization, lower costs of operations and higher fleet safety. Mahindra iMAXX, is an intelligent platform and a differentiated solution compared to other offerings in the market that focus mainly on location tracking based services and basic vehicle electronic data.

Today, Mahindra is seeing an unprecedented number of success stories from its BS4 fleet customers who are achieving upwards of 10% fuel economy improvements across their fleet.  In fact some customers are even achieving 100% asset productivity improvements in terms of kilometers driven per vehicle per day, thanks to the intelligent insights provided by the Mahindra iMAXX platform that was soft launched and co-created with customers in the earlier BS4 era.

Unique Benefits of Mahindra iMAXX Telematics Platform:

As against the regular telematics solutions that focus mainly on location tracking based services and basic vehicle performance analysis, the intelligent and revolutionary Mahindra iMAXX is in a different league due to the following:

Embedded Device Capability – The core capability of the Mahindra iMAXX embedded device is to absorb large scale, high frequency engine and allied system data securely, and transmit on a real-time basis over 4G airwaves for server processing. To put this in perspective, the amount of data transmitted through the Mahindra iMAXX device from the vehicle is on an average 600% higher than the previous generation telematics systems available in the market.

Digital Twin Platform – Once such a large amount of data comes into Mahindra iMAXX cloud servers, the machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence models put in place at the Mahindra iMAXX digital twin platform level helps provide accurate, reliable and predictive business and engineering insights. While most telematics solutions fetch and show vehicle data to customers without any further intelligence or analysis built-in, Mahindra iMAXX has the unique and unparalleled capability to add machine intelligence to normal data for enhanced credibility, efficacy and reliability – a First in Indian CV industry.

To appreciate the power and uniqueness of this solution, and how this technology powers our service guarantees for customers, consider this actual case that occurred on one of the customer’s vehicle during Lockdown 1.0. The artificial intelligence built into the system which monitors multiple correlated vehicle parameters was able to predict an engine cooling system issue, 33 hours prior to it actually occurring on the vehicle i.e. vehicle sending a high coolant temperature fault code through its ECU. With the predictive alert available at the right time to our NOW 24X7 helpline and Uptime monitoring team and to the customer, coupled with the agility and timely action of the customer support team, a possible major vehicle breakdown was averted and the driver continued on the trip after minor repairs provided by our mobile service van.

For more details on the features of Mahindra iMAXX, please click on:

https://www.mahindratruckandbus.com/imaxx.aspx

Tata Motors Introduces India’s Largest Tipper Truck - The Signa 4825.TK with 16-Wheels

 

Key highlights:

* Gross vehicle weight of 47.5 tonne – the highest in the country for tipper trucks

* Powered by 6.7-litre Cummins engine – world renowned for its robust durability and reliability

* Unmatched 6 years / 6 lakh kilometre warranty

* Industry-first factory-fitted advanced electronic system with sensors to detect and prevent a possible topple while tipping

* Equipped with Hill Start Assist, 3 mode fuel economy switch, Fleet Edge and many more industry-first features

Tata Motors, India’s leading commercial vehicles manufacturer, today announced the launch of Signa 4825.TK – India’s very first 47.5-tonne multi-axle tipper truck for surface transport of coal and construction aggregates. The Signa 4825.TK’s unmatched gross vehicle weight allows more load per trip with its 29 cubic metre box load body. The newly-launched tipper truck is specially designed to meet the customer’s need of high productivity and fast turnaround. It is developed with Tata Motors’ Power of 6 philosophy and offers enhanced performance, higher payload capacity, lower total cost of ownership, higher comfort and safety for the driver.

The Signa 4825.TK is powered by Cummins ISBe 6.7-litre BS6 engine with high power rating of 250hp and torque rating of 950Nm from 1000-1700rpm to ensure faster turnaround time. The powerful engine is mated to a heavy duty G1150 9-speed gearbox, with 430mm dia organic clutch. The gear ratios are designed specifically for surface transportation, with reduced fuel consumption. The tipper truck is equipped with 3 distinct drive modes – Light, Medium and Heavy – to ensure optimum power and torque selection, based on the load and terrain, ensuring high fuel efficiency. It comes as a factory-built, ready-to-use vehicle with the 29 cubic metre tipper body and hydraulics. The Signa 4825.TK is available in two configurations: 10x4, 10x2 to offer flexibility to the customer, basis their requirement.

Speaking at the launch of the Signa 4825.TK, Mr RT Wasan, Vice President, Product Line, M&HCV, Tata Motors said, “Tata Motors has used the BS6 implementation opportunity to not only migrate to the stricter emission norms, but to truly upgrade the entire product portfolio and further match the customer’s requirement by setting new benchmarks for performance, operating efficiency, comfort and safety. We are delighted to introduce the Signa 4825.TK – recognising the needs of the customers such as those in construction and coal industry who wish to complete large projects ahead of time, we have developed India’s largest tipper, with gross vehicle weight of 47.5 tonnes. It has been our constant endeavour to deliver the best product offerings that match and excel the country’s evolving needs and demands. Through our Power of 6 philosophy, we will continue to offer first-in-the-industry products and solutions and further strengthen our position in the cargo and Construck segments.”

Moreover, the advanced features like spacious sleeper cabin, tilt & telescopic steering system, 3-way mechanically-adjustable comfortable driving seat and easy-shift gears. The Signa 4825.TK’s suspended cabin guarantees lower NVH characteristics and provides a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The powerful air conditioning system assures comfortable all-weather driving. The crash-tested cabin, high seating position, bigger daylight opening, rear view mirror, blind spot mirror, solid steel 3-piece bumper make it one of the safest tippers in the country.

The technology-driven tipper truck also offers new-generation features like Hill Start Assist (HSA), Engine Brake and iCGT brake for greater vehicle control and lower operating costs. This fully-built tipper is equipped with advanced electronic system with sensors to detect and prevent a possible topple while tipping, thus increasing the safety of the driver and the operators.

It also comes with the standard fitment of Fleet Edge – Tata Motors’ next-gen digital solution for optimal fleet management, to further increase the uptime and reduce the total cost of ownership.

The entire range of Tata Motors M&HCV trucks comes with the best-in-the-industry warranty of 6 years / 6 lakh kilometres. Tata Motors also offers Sampoorna Seva 2.0 and Tata Samarth – the company’s commitment to commercial vehicle driver welfare, uptime Guarantee, on-site service, and customised annual maintenance and fleet management solutions with each M&HCV.

About Tata Motors

Tata Motors Limited (NYSE: TTM; BSE: 500570 and 570001; NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR, a USD 44 billion organisation, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks and buses. Part of the USD 110 billion Tata group, Tata Motors is India’s largest and the only OEM offering extensive range of integrated, smart and e-mobility solutions. It has operations in India, the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa, and Indonesia through a strong global network of 134 subsidiaries, associate companies and joint ventures, including Jaguar Land Rover in the UK and Tata Daewoo in South Korea.

With a focus on engineering and tech enabled automotive solutions catering to the future of mobility, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and amongst the top four in the passenger vehicles market. With ‘Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of its brand promise, the company’s innovation efforts are focused to develop pioneering technologies that are sustainable as well as suited to evolving aspirations of the market and the customers. Tata Motors strives to bring new products that fire the imagination of GenNext customers, fuelled by state of the art design and R&D centres located in India, UK, US, Italy and South Korea. Internationally, Tata commercial and passenger vehicles are marketed in countries, spread across Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, Australia, CIS, and Russia.

Navnit Motors Hosts India’s Largest BMW Premium Selection Facility in Bengaluru

BMW Group India announced the opening of its new BMW Premium Selection (BPS) facility in Bengaluru. The largest BPS facility in India is hosted by Navnit Motors and will display a wide range of pre-owned BMW vehicles. The facility is located at No. 40/66, Sonnappana Halli Bethahalasoor Post, New Airport Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562157.

The facility is headed by Mr. Sharad Kachalia, Dealer Principal, Navnit Motors. Navnit Motors also represents BMW India with sales and service outlets in Bengaluru, Mangalore and Mumbai.

Mr. Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Premium Selection offers an entry into the world of ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ for our discerning consumers with complete peace of mind. Each pre-owned vehicle sold under the BMW Premium Selection promises to be a best pick in terms of value, quality and service in the used car market. There is a massive potential in the premium pre-owned car market in India and Bengaluru is one of the key markets for BMW India. With the launch of Navnit Motors - BMW Premium Selection, we are setting a new benchmark in the premium pre-owned car market and bringing JOY closer to our potential customers.”

Mr. Sharad Kachalia, Dealer Principal, Navnit Motors said, “It gives us great Joy to add another important dimension to our business with the launch of the largest BPS facility in India. Strategically located alongside our service workshop, we are certain that the facility will become a choice destination for prospects who want to join the world of BMW. With our deep understanding of the luxury automotive market as well as the pre-owned category in the region, we are confident to play a significant role in the growing success story of BMW in India.”

Since its launch in 2011, BMW Group India has established 24 BPS facilities across the country. BPS offers the finest range of pre-owned BMW vehicles that are carefully selected and comprehensively examined for quality. Every vehicle comes with a full, detailed history about servicing, maintenance and repairs.

The strategically located facility is spread across a total area of 7,500 sq. ft. with a 15 car display, sales lounge and customer lounge. With the industry-leading Virtual Product Presentation (VPP), customers can easily check current vehicle stock, obtain all information such as current mileage, retail price, car specifications and dealer contact data. Additionally, the user friendly interface offers visitors a broad range of search functionalities to select their favourite vehicle.

A range of individual and attractive financing options are available for BPS vehicles. A dedicated team of finance and insurance consultants offer personalised advice and provide suitable financing options as per customers’ needs and future plans. Customers can choose a trade-in offer for a fair exchange value, hassel free documentation and evaluation of vehicle at their doorsteps.

All cars selected under BMW Premium Selection are less than five years old and would have clocked under 100,000 kms. These vehicles come with upto 24 months warranty. BPS owners also have the option of taking BMW India Roadside Assistance which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Land Rover Defender Means Business as Hard Top Name Returns for New Commercial Mode

The launch of the tough new commercial Defender 90 and 110 later this year will restore the Hard Top name to the line-up

* Back to business: Practical commercial versions of New Defender 90 and 110 will restore the Hard Top name to the iconic 4x4 family

* Unstoppable capability: New Defender Hard Top body designs will bring unrivalled breadth of on and off-road capability to the commercial vehicle sector

* Professional versatility: Land Rover’s most capable and durable commercial vehicle ever will provide a unique combination of cargo space, practicality and comfort

* Clever and connected: Central front-row jump seat option to provide space for three, while Software-Over-The-Air will deliver updates without visiting a retailer

* Pulling power: Hard Top model will blend 3 500kg towing capacity with optional Advanced Tow Assist technology to effortlessly pull and manoeuvre trailers

Land Rover has confirmed the new commercial Defender 90 and 110 models will restore the Hard Top name to its rugged 4x4 family.

The versatile and durable Defender Hard Top will be launched later this year, combining unstoppable all-terrain capability with 21st-century connectivity to give professionals a unique combination of cargo space, practicality and premium comfort.

The Hard Top name dates back to 1950, when the introduction of demountable Hard Tops gave early Series Land Rovers added security and protection from the elements. New Defender Hard Top continues this ethos, sharing its fixed metal roof and silhouette with the iconic original.

Land Rover has experienced unprecedented global demand for New Defender 90 and 110 since its successful world premiere last September and the new Hard Top models will be the next additions to the legendary bloodline.

Defender’s aluminium-intensive D7x body architecture is three times stiffer than the best body-on-frame designs. Sharing its strong body structure and next-generation Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) with passenger models, the Defender Hard Top is being developed by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations to deliver unrivalled durability, practicality and toughness.  

Michael van der Sande, Managing Director, Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, said: “We will maximise the functionality and usability of New Defender’s cargo area, with tough materials and clever storage solutions to ensure it surpasses the capability of any previous Defender Hard Top.”

The 90 and 110 Hard Tops will both feature independent coil-sprung suspension, with advanced electronic air suspension also available on the 110. Both set-ups will provide outstanding off-road geometry, with ground clearance of 291mm, while the 110 Hard Top will have approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively (in Off-Road height). Full technical details will be confirmed later this year.

Nick Collins, Land Rover Vehicle Line Director, said: “New Defender 90 and 110 Hard Top will be the toughest, most capable and most connected commercial 4x4s we have ever produced. They have been engineered to meet global safety standards and deliver impressive long-haul comfort, giving businesses and professionals the best of all worlds.”

An impressive payload and towing capacity of up 3 500kg* will combine to make New Defender the ultimate commercial 4x4. The flexible cabin has no second or third-row seats, but the optional front-row jump seat means it will still accommodate up to three people. Land Rover’s clever ClearSight Rear View mirror system preserves rearward visibility when the jump seat is occupied, or when the load space is full. It uses a live video feed from a rear-facing camera to give drivers an unobstructed view at all times.

New Defender Hard Top will be a world-class tow vehicle, with a raft of technologies to help hitch, drive and reverse safely while pulling a trailer. Land Rover’s intelligent Advanced Tow Assist system takes the stress out of difficult reversing manoeuvres by letting drivers steer trailers with their fingertips using a rotary controller on the centre console.

The maximum wading depth of 900mm is also supported by a new Wade programme in the Terrain Response 2 system, which ensures drivers can ford deep water with complete confidence – so important supplies will always get through.

Land Rover’s state-of-the-art Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment will provide immediate and intuitive control of all the major vehicle functions, including seamless smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Twin eSIM technology underpins Pivi Pro and supports Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) capability, allowing customers to download updates for a variety of vehicle systems. For professionals using the Defender Hard Top for business, this will minimise time spent off the road as SOTA updates can be completed without the need to visit a Land Rover retailer.

In addition, the New Defender Hard Top models will feature a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Land Rover’s 3D Surround Camera system provides an all-round visualisation of the vehicle on the central touchscreen, helping drivers manoeuvre safely in tight spaces or position the vehicle close to items ready for loading.

Convenience will be enhanced with the Remote smartphone app, which will allow businesses to keep track of the location, fuel level and journey history of their vehicle remotely, for ultimate peace of mind and security.

Slowing economy forces Tata Motors, M&M to shut plants

Indian auto makers Tata Motors Ltd and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd are closing plants for up to 6 days in December as demand for vehicles is hit by tight financing in a slowing economy.

The country's top vehicle maker Tata Motors plans to shut its heavy vehicle plant in east India for six days, a spokesman said. It said earlier this week it would to shut a commercial vehicle plant in west India for three days.

Tata Motors', India's top bus and truck maker, November vehicle sales dropped 30 percent to 32,696 units. The country's biggest utility vehicle and tractor maker Mahindra said most of its automotive plants will be shut for up to 6 days in December due to easing demand.

"Taking into account the slowdown in demand for the company's products it has been decided to align the company's production plan with the expected demand for the month of December," Mahindra said in a statement.

Mahindra, which also makes the Logan sedan in a venture with Renault, earlier this week said vehicle sales in November fell 39 percent to 11,273 units. Carmakers in India have cut prices and are offering freebies to woo back buyers as sales slide after nearly five years of rapid growth.

Source: Agencies