Capri Global Capital’s New Brand Campaign “Farz Nibhaatey Hain”, Features Gujarat Titan Players

Capri Global Capital Ltd, a leading non-banking financial company and a sponsor of Team Gujarat Titans in IPL, has launched a new series of brand films linked with their campaign, "Farz Nibhaatey Hain”. Starring Shubman Gill, Captain, Gujarat Titans along with his teammates, allrounder Rahul Tewatia and pacer Mohit Sharma, this campaign reaffirms Capri Loans core ethos of putting customers first and underscores its dedication to serve its valued patrons.

Through a three crisp and bite-size ad-film series, the NBFC showcases various scenarios and interactions that Gujarat Titan Team members have with individuals and with a relationship manager of Capri Loans at their branch. First film highlights the flexibility of repayment of loan offered by the lender on its Gold Loans. The second ad film narrates a fun interaction between the team and their driver which highlights the hassle-free loan application and minimum documentation process at Capri Loans for their loyal customers. The 3rd film highlights the prioritised customer service at a Capri Loans branch.

The campaign will release on April 3rd, 2024 across various digital platforms and social media portals during this IPL season 2024. The ad link for your reference: https://youtu.be/XpeFxnDGxEo

"We are thrilled to launch the 'Farz Nibhaatey Hain' campaign, which underscores our unwavering dedication & commitment to provide exemplary service offerings to our customers," said Basant Dhawan, Group Chief Marketing Officer, Capri Global. "In today's fast-paced world, we understand the importance of providing convenient and accessible financial solutions. Through this campaign, and in partnership with Gujarat Titans, we aim to showcase how Capri Loans prioritizes customer needs with its unique product offerings besides valuing repeat customers with special loyalty benefits across its loan portfolios. The brand messaging being delivered by the Gujarat Titans players in the films will help us attract huge consumer eyeballs & build brand trust."

Echoing similar sentiments, Pramod Sharma, National Creative Director, Rediffusion Brand Solutions stated, "Our approach towards this campaign is rooted in authenticity and empathy of Capri Loan’s conduct towards their customers. Each video portrays a scenario that would resonate with our audience, who has or would experience the services and wide range of credit products that Capri Loans has to offer. We wanted to deliver a very strong message of a sense of duty that the Brand upholds in their day-to-day conduct, but in a very light-hearted way. This was the toughest part developing this storyboard. We are sure the viewers would identify it and appreciate it while cheering for their favourite team, the Gujarat Titans.” 

GE Vernova Completes Spin-Off And Begins Trading On The New York Stock Exchange

* A purpose-built company to electrify and decarbonize the world, uniquely positioned with a scope and scale of solutions to accelerate the energy transition  

Executing with sustainability, innovation and lean at its core and delivering disciplined growth, margin expansion, higher free cash flow, and effective capital allocation 

Trading on the New York Stock Exchange under “GEV” ticker symbol 

GE Vernova (NYSE: GEV) announced today that its spin-off from GE (NYSE: GE) is complete and it will begin trading as an independent company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol “GEV,” effective at the market opening today. In a first for the NYSE, GE Vernova and GE Aerospace, which also launches as an independent company today, will ring the opening bell together at 9:30 AM ET. 

“Today, GE Vernova becomes an independent company singularly focused on accelerating the energy transition to create a more sustainable future,” said Scott Strazik, CEO of GE Vernova. “Our Power, Wind, and Electrification segments provide essential products and services to the electric power industry as we work to meet the growing power demands of economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is purpose-built to electrify and decarbonize the world, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished with this milestone and excited to continue this journey alongside our customers and shareholders.”  

GE Vernova has more than 80,000 employees across more than 100 countries. Many of the world’s leading utilities, developers, governments, and large industrial electricity users rely on its installed base to generate, transfer, orchestrate, convert, and store electricity reliably and efficiently. With an installed base of over 7,000 gas turbines, the world’s largest, approximately 55,000 wind turbines, and leading-edge electrification technology, GE Vernova helps generate approximately 30% of the world’s electricity.  

At the company’s Investor Day in March, GE Vernova reaffirmed its 2024 financial guidance, and presented its 2025 financial guidance. Additionally, GE Vernova provided its outlook by 2028 including achieving mid-single digit organic revenue growth*, 10% adjusted EBITDA margin*, and 90-110% free cash flow* conversion.

GE Vernova serves a vital $265 billion industry segment that is estimated to grow to $435 billion by 2030. Increased electrification and decarbonization needs offer major opportunities, with generation capacity projected to more than double by 2040. To capitalize on this opportunity, the company is focused on executing with sustainability, innovation, and lean at its core and is building on its history of innovation by investing approximately $1 billion annually in research and development to drive breakthrough energy transition technologies.

*Non-GAAP Financial Measure

The spin-off of GE Vernova was achieved by GE’s distribution of all shares of the common stock of GE Vernova Inc. Each holder of record of GE common stock received one share of GE Vernova Inc. common stock for every four shares of GE common stock held on March 19, 2024.

GE Vernova will announce its first quarter earnings on April 25, 2024 at 7:30 AM ET, which can be accessed at www.gevernova.com/investors. 

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this document, the Company sometimes uses information derived from consolidated financial data but not presented in its financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Certain of these data are considered “non-GAAP financial measures” under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules. These non-GAAP financial measures supplement the Company’s GAAP disclosures and should not be considered an alternative to the GAAP measure. The reasons the Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures and the reconciliations to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in this press release and GE Vernova's Form 10 filed with the SEC and any updates or amendments it makes in future filings.

The Company cannot provide a reconciliation of the differences between the non-GAAP expectations and the corresponding GAAP measure for free cash flow* conversion in the 2028 outlook without unreasonable effort due to the uncertainty of the costs and timing associated with potential restructuring actions and the impacts of depreciation and amortization.

About GE Vernova 

GE Vernova is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world’s challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 80,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. 

GE Vernova’s mission is embedded in its name – it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth’s verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova’s website and LinkedIn. https://www.gevernova.com/ 

PhonePe Partners With Star Health Insurance To Offer Insurance With Monthly Payment Options

~ Enables added flexibility and convenience with the UPI AutoPay option ~

PhonePe today announced a partnership with Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Ltd. (Star Health Insurance), India’s largest retail health insurance Company, to offer customers health insurance with a monthly and annual payment option. With this partnership, PhonePe users will now be able to avail of ‘Star Comprehensive Insurance Policy’ on the PhonePe app with coverage up to Rs.1 Crore. Having previously disrupted the market with its motor insurance products, with this launch, PhonePe further expands the options available to its users in the health insurance category.

Through this partnership, for the first time, Star Health Insurance’s Comprehensive Health Insurance will be offered to customers with a monthly premium payment plan, pioneered by PhonePe – a first-of-its-kind initiative in the industry. Users can also opt to pay their premium with the UPI AutoPay mandate and enjoy added convenience. This move was driven by a critical insight that smaller monthly payments ease the financial burden for users while empowering and enabling them to opt for more extensive insurance coverage without stretching their finances.

Star Comprehensive Insurance Policy is a power-packed insurance plan with benefits including the most popular OPD and maternity coverage. Market research conducted with PhonePe’s user base indicates that these two features were the most preferred by customers while buying health insurance. Star Comprehensive Health Insurance Policy is an end-to-end health insurance policy with sum insured available up to Rs.1 crore. The policy covers road ambulance and air ambulance expenses, out-patient medical consultation up to the limits, out-patient coverage for dental and Ophthalmic treatment, delivery expenses, organ donor expenses, provides coverage for newborn babies, including any congenital disorders, from day one of birth and vaccination expenses of the new born until the baby completes one year. Mental well-being is covered up to the sum insured. The policy does not impose sub-limits for day care procedures. Accidental death and permanent total disablement is covered up to 1 crore.

Star Comprehensive Health Insurance Policy also offers wellness programmes that provide discounts on premiums and condition management programmes. Furthermore, the policy provides an annual health check-up, automatic restoration of the sum insured up to 100%, and a cumulative bonus, payable up to 100% of the basic sum insured.

Speaking on the partnership, Vishal Gupta, CEO of PhonePe Insurance said “PhonePe is excited about this partnership with Star Health. Star’s differentiated benefits combined with PhonePe’s distribution, customer centric approach and simple DIY journeys will help turbocharge insurance adoption and penetration in the country. We are on a mission to help turn India from an underinsured nation to one that is adequately insured and view this partnership with Star as a crucial milestone in this journey.”

Speaking on the partnership, Anand Roy, MD and CEO of Star Health Insurance, said, “We are excited to partner with PhonePe and offer health insurance targeted at Gen Z and Millennials since people in that group are digital natives. The partnership between Star Health Insurance and PhonePe will provide consumers with a hassle-free payment option that is light on the pocket and at the same time meets their wellness needs. Today, health insurance has become a necessity. Given the high medical inflation in the country, it has become crucial to have an all-inclusive health cover that can protect at every stage of an individual’s life. At Star, we believe in keeping our customers healthy, and towards that end, customers buying our policies will not just get insurance but will also have access to free teleconsultations, homecare, and nutritionists, among other services. We look forward to expanding our digital reach through this partnership.”

Users can purchase the policy via the PhonePe app by clicking on the Health Insurance option, selecting the members to be insured, the desired sum to be insured and the payment tenure. Here, they can choose either monthly EMIs or annual payments and then select the  policy of their choice. Once they opt for the policy, the customer’s have to fill in their details, such as name, age, and gender, followed by the health history of all members to be insured. This will be followed by a regulator mandated Know Your Customer (KYC) form and declarations, once the payment is completed.

Star Health, in association with PhonePe, plans to roll out more such innovative offerings across its indemnity and benefit products.

About PhonePe Group:

PhonePe Group is India’s leading fintech company. Its flagship product, the PhonePe digital payments app, was launched in Aug 2016. In just 7 years, the company has scaled rapidly to become India’s leading consumer payments app with 520+ million registered users and a digital payments acceptance network of 38 million merchants. PhonePe also processes 230+ million daily transactions with an annualized Total Payment Value (TPV) of USD 1.5+ Trillion.

On the back of its leadership in digital payments, PhonePe Group has expanded into financial services (Insurance, Lending, Wealth) as well as new consumer tech businesses (Pincode - hyperlocal e-commerce and Indus App Store - India's first localized App Store). PhonePe Group is an India headquartered technology company with a portfolio of businesses aligned with the company's vision to offer every Indian an equal opportunity to accelerate their progress by unlocking the flow of money and access to services.

For more details: media@phonepe.com

About Star Health and Allied Insurance:

Star Health and Allied Insurance Co Ltd (BSE:543412 | NSE:STARHEALTH) is the largest retail health insurance company in India. The Company commenced operations in 2006, as India’s first Standalone Health Insurance Company with business interests in Health, Personal Accident and Overseas Travel Insurance. The company uses its vast resources to focus on service excellence and product innovation to deliver the best to its customers. Star Health has introduced many industry-first and innovative health insurance products to individuals, families and corporates. Star Health is also a prominent Bancassurance player with long standing relationship with many financial institutions. 

As of 31 December 2023, Star Health has 877 branch offices Pan-India. The company has 14,203 network hospitals pan India.  The company has a wide distribution network of 6.84 lakh agents which is among the largest in the insurance sector. In FY23, Star Health had a gross written premium of INR 12,952 crore and a net worth of INR 5,430 crore. 

For more information, please visit www.starhealth.in  

AkzoNobel Announces Rocking Star Yash As Brand Ambassador For Dulux Weathershield, Launches “It’s Colourful. It’s Powerful” Campaign

AkzoNobel India, a leading Paints and Coatings company and makers of Dulux paints, welcomes the actor Yash, as the new brand ambassador for its Dulux Weathershield exterior emulsions in India.

Rajiv Rajgopal, Chairman and Managing Director, Akzo Nobel India said, “We’re thrilled to welcome the Rocking Star Yash to our family. He perfectly embodies the Dulux Weathershield spirit of unmatched performance and originality that stems from confidence of innovation. A true superstar, Yash has earned the love of millions of fans across India, much like our iconic Dulux Weathershield exterior emulsions.”

With Yash on board, AkzoNobel aims to strengthen the association of its flagship Dulux Weathershield exterior emulsions with Indian consumers seeking high-performance with bold aesthetics.

As superstar Yash elaborates, “Every role brings with it the potential to inspire, captivate, and entertain. My greatest power lies in getting to live up to the expectations of the audience. Much like Dulux Weathershield exterior emulsions, I believe in channeling that power and add colours to the lives of many while staying true to my values. I am happy to bring alive the Dulux Weathershield ‘It’s Colourful. It’s Powerful’ story. When life isn’t lived monochrome, why should our homes be?”

Crafted by Mullen Lintas Delhi, the campaign begins with a reporter asking Yash how can colourful be powerful. In his true larger-than-life style, Yash rigorously tests Dulux Weathershield Powerflexx across all parameters - relentless sunlight, torrential rains to extreme sandstorms. With the Triple Defence Technology at its core, every hue of Dulux Weathershield Powerflexx ensures that home exteriors continue to stay vibrant and protected for longer – that’s why “It’s Colourful. It’s Powerful.”

Sharing business insights, Rohit Totla, Marketing and Sales Unit Director - Paints, Akzo Nobel India said, “For over 25 years, Dulux Weathershield is synonymous with pioneering technologies for home exteriors. Exterior emulsions being one of the largest contributors to AkzoNobel’s decorative paint business in India, we aim to turbocharge our consumer connect with the power of Yash, in sync with expansion of our brand footprint.”

Sharing insights into the “It’s Colourful. It’s Powerful” narrative, Vandana Krishnia, Marketing Director, Decorative Paints – South Asia, AkzoNobel added, “Be the festivals, celebrations, century old identity of cities such as the Blue City, our homes or our lives – colours are deeply engrained in India’s and every Indian’s sense of identity. While Dulux Weathershield Powerflexx’s powerful credentials are a given, this campaign is about celebrating India’s love with colour and who better to highlight this than Yash.”

Fans and paint consumers can now see Yash in a bold avatar as he brings alive the latest ‘It’s Colourful. It’s Powerful’ Dulux Weathershield Powerflexx across traditional and digital platforms in India.

About AkzoNobel

We supply the sustainable and innovative paints and coatings that our customers, communities – and the environment – are increasingly relying on. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and have set our sights on becoming the global industry leader. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering paints company that’s committed to science-based targets and is taking genuine action to address globally relevant challenges and protect future generations.

About Akzo Nobel India Limited               

Akzo Nobel India is present in India for 69 years. In 2008, the company became a member of the AkzoNobel Group. With an employee strength of around 1,500, AkzoNobel India has five manufacturing sites, two RD&I centers, regional offices and a distribution network spread across the country. All manufacturing facilities have a state-of-the-art environmental management system. It’s commitment to Health, Safety, Environment and Security (HSE&S) has been among the best-in-class globally, with due care being taken to protect people and the environment. For more information, please visit www.akzonobel.co.in

Samsung Showcases Bespoke Home Appliances Featuring AI Capabilities And Enhanced Connectivity

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today showcased Bespoke appliances that are powered by AI, demonstrating the future of connected and sustainable homes. With AI-powered home appliances, Samsung aims at exceeding customers’ expectations in the fast growing premium appliances market.

With inbuilt Wi-Fi, internal cameras and AI chips, Samsung’s latest appliances featuring Bespoke AI seamlessly connect and provide convenient home management with easy to access controls through the SmartThings Application.

“We are introducing Bespoke AI, our next big innovation in home appliances which will ensure smarter living for Indian homes and reduce energy consumption, contributing to a greener planet. With our Bespoke AI-powered home appliances, consumers will be able to customise their choices, get easy controls for elders and kids, and get seamless diagnosis for their home appliances. With the transformative power of AI, we are confident that Bespoke AI will strengthen our leadership in the digital appliances market in India,” said JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia.

AI also helps increase longevity and sustainability of these appliances, with users getting notified when their refrigerator is due for water filter replacement or the air conditioner needs a filter change through the SmartThings App. With the introduction of AI, Samsung aims at reducing the time required to manage these appliances. The ‘Bespoke AI’ event was conducted at Samsung BKC at the Jio World Plaza.

“With AI, appliances can now be smarter, and help reduce users’ time and energy spent on home chores. Through enhanced connectivity and AI capabilities, these appliances take the consumer experience to the next level by revolutionising the smart home experience. With AI appliances, our objective is to further strengthen our premium portfolio and increase our share in the premium appliances segment,” said Saurabh Baishakhia, Senior Director, Digital Appliances, Samsung India.

Samsung’s Bespoke appliances in India including Refrigerator, Air Conditioner, Microwave and Washing Machine are now powered by AI.

Refrigerator: It comes with AI vision camera that helps in automatic food recognition of up to 33 food items initially. The number of items that can be identified will increase over time depending on the storage done by the user over time. The refrigerator, through its screens, suggests what to cook for lunch, or dinner, based on the food items stored.

With smart food management system, users can know when a specific food item in the refrigerator is about to expire. Furthermore, an enhanced single camera allows a wider view in different lighting conditions. With wider coverage, not only refrigerator shelves, but door bins are also captured creating a “View Inside” the refrigerator from anywhere, anytime.

Air Conditioner: With Welcome Cooling function for Air Conditioner, users can cool their home even from a distant location. AI Geo fencing allows users to set commands and the SmartThings application will send you a notification to start or turn off your appliances when you are within a specified range or moving away from the range. The specified range is between 150 meters to 30 kilometers.

Microwave: Personalising diet recipes, Bespoke AI helps automatically customize the recipe to a ‘low fat’ version.

Washing Machine: With AI Control, Samsung’s new Front Load Washing Machine learns laundry routines over time and evolves its wash cycles to suit users’ habits. It automatically adjusts to the most used wash settings, unless manually changed to another customised wash cycle. Further, the AI Wash feature senses the weight of the load, the kind of fabrics involved and their softness, water level, soiling level, and detergent level to create a custom wash recipe.

Samsung is not only dedicated to presenting a better home experience, but also committed to creating products that can help build a better future for the environment and society at large. With SmartThings Energy, users can easily monitor and control the amount of energy consumed by connected Samsung appliances.

With an optimized energy saving method using AI algorithm based on usage patterns, AI Energy Mode can give up to 10% energy savings in refrigerators, up to 20% in Air conditioners and up to 70% in washing machines. With Bespoke appliances, Samsung is also reducing CO2. For instance, a 5-star rated Samsung Refrigerator reduces CO2 emission by 359kg/year, and with AI Energy Mode, the savings increase by 10% - thereby reducing the overall CO2 emission by 395kg/year.

Samsung’s Bespoke AI appliances additionally feature Bixby AI Voice Assistant. Users can manage their Family Hub refrigerator by simply saying “Hi Bixby! Show me what’s inside the refrigerator” or just say “Hi Bixby! Turn on the WindFree mode in the air conditioner”.

The appliances also feature Smart Forward, a service bringing newest features and updates through regular software updates with assured security and additional AI features such as Home Care. SmartThings Home Care monitors your devices, notifies you when an abnormality is detected and suggests a solution, providing easy maintenance and upkeep of your devices. Users will get also receive a notification when they need to change an accessory.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the world of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For latest news on Samsung India, please visit Samsung India Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com/in. For Hindi, log on to Samsung Newsroom Bharat at https://news.samsung.com/bharat. You can also follow us on Twitter @SamsungNewsIN 

Air India Transforms 'Flying Returns' Loyalty programme To Offer Greater Ease, Rewards, And Recognition To Members

Highlights

Flying Returns moves away from miles-flown approach to adopt spend-based model

No points expiry for active members

No blackout dates and always-available award ticket inventory with ‘Cash+Points’ redemption option

Same Tier privileges, collection and redemption across Star Alliance partner airlines worldwide

New customer-friendly digital interface to provide a one-stop-platform for transactions

Air India today launched its transformed Flying Returns loyalty programme, introducing a simplified new structure, more customer-friendly features, renamed tiers, and an updated identity. The revamped Flying Returns prioritizes greater ease, more rewards, and recognition for Members, while offering them instant global status and privileges around the world.

In its first overhaul in more than a decade, Flying Returns moves away from the legacy model of miles-based collection of points to a fairer, more equitable spend-based approach.

Flying Returns Members will be able enjoy the benefits of the new programme and collect points based on the new structure, starting today.

“The revamp of Flying Returns is an important step forward in the way the ‘new’ Air India intends to serve and delight customers. We spent the past year listening, gathering insights from over 50,000 customers, and benchmarking our program against the best loyalty offerings out there. This deep dive, coupled with a complete digital overhaul, has resulted in a much stronger and value-delivering programme that we are proud to present today,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial & Transformation Officer, Air India.

“We are confident that this evolution of Flying Returns, along with more strengths we will add to the programme in due course, will elevate it to the forefront of global loyalty programmes.”

Some highlights of the reimagined Flying Returns programme are as follows:

Spend more, earn more: With Flying Returns now becoming a spend-based programme, the amount of Flying Returns Points that Members will be able to collect per flight will now be based on the amount they spend on a ticket rather than the distance they fly, thus delivering greater value for money spent over miles flown.

Evergreen Points: Flying Returns Points will now never expire, as long as a Member takes at least one flight on Air India every 24 months, regardless of their Membership Tier level.

No blackout dates and no restrictions: Members can redeem Flying Returns Points to purchase any Air India seat that is available for sale; there are no restrictions.

Cash+Points: Members will now be able to pay for their Award flight using a combination of Flying Returns Points and cash, thus providing greater flexibility.

Global reach and value: As India's most globally connected loyalty program, Flying Returns offers its Members the ability to earn or redeem points on 25 other Star Alliance partner airlines across the world. This global network comprises among the very best airlines for quality and service in their respective regions and enables members to redeem for flights to over 700 destinations worldwide.

Global status: Members will also enjoy their Flying Returns Tier privileges across all Star Alliance member airlines worldwide, as well as access to 1000+ lounges across the world for those with applicable Membership Tier levels.

Renamed Membership Tiers: Flying Returns will continue to offer four Membership Tier levels that have been renamed: Red (from ‘Base’), Silver (from ‘Silver Edge’), Gold (from ‘Golden Edge’), and Platinum (from The Maharaja Club).

Priority and premium one-stop member service: Silver, Gold, and Platinum members will have access to a one-stop member service contact centre that will provide a seamless experience in immediately addressing any member inquiries and requests.

More Options for More Members – Flying Returns, in its new avatar, has more to offer to everyone with new features such as:

Family Pool: Members will be able to combine their Flying Returns Points with others in their family, for free, enabling them to redeem for travel sooner.

The benefit of booking direct: Members will earn 2 additional bonus Flying Returns Points for every INR 100 spent in booking flights directly on Air India’s website (airindia.com) or mobile app.

More options to collect Flying Returns Points: Members can now also collect Flying Returns Points across a wide range of Air India’s non-airline partners, including car rentals, hotel stays, shopping, lifestyle experiences, and more.

Air India will – in due course - introduce new co-branded credit cards as well as partnerships with other popular brands to offer extensive travel benefits and privileges to Flying Returns Members.

Launched in 1994, Air India's Flying Returns programme boasts a long history, making it India’s oldest frequent flyer programme. The programme was last updated in 2012.

In the last 90 days, Air India started the rollout of its new global brand identity across guest touchpoints, launched a new consumer-facing website and mobile app, unveiled a new collection of uniforms for cabin and cockpit crew designed by Indian celebrity couturier, Manish Malhotra, and inducted the Airbus A350 aircraft into its fleet.

About Air India:

Founded by the legendary JRD Tata, Air India pioneered India’s aviation sector. Since its first flight on October 15, 1932, Air India has built an extensive domestic network with non-stop flights to cities around the world, across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far-East, South-East Asia, Australia, and the Gulf. After 69 years as a government-owned enterprise, Air India and Air India Express were welcomed back into the Tata group in January 2022.

Air India is navigating through a major five-year transformation roadmap under the aegis of Vihaan.AI, with an ambition to become a world class airline with an Indian heart. The first phase of this transformation, the taxi phase was recently concluded, and focused on fixing the basics.

These included bringing back to service many long grounded aircraft, addition of talent across flying and ground functions, rapid upgradation of technology and strengthening of customer care initiatives amongst others. A member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium of leading international airlines, Air India offers seamless connectivity and facilities to passengers all over the world.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Launches The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR: “Make Your Way“ With The New SUV

Designed to captivate style-conscious customers, the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR seamlessly blends style, advanced features and power packed performance.

-          Striking Exteriors: Draws inspiration from Toyota's rich SUV heritage offering a sense of Prestige - unique front design created by Toyota designers.

-          Powertrain Prowess: Equipped with 1.0L Turbo, 1.2L Petrol and E-CNG options, All -New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR offers an exceptional performance and unmatched fuel efficiency.

-          Freedom of Functionality: Advanced technology and smart connected features for an exhilarating and supremely convenient travelling experience.

-          Refreshing Interiors: Spacious and inviting cabin made to suit the preferences of Indian customers.

-          Top-notch Safety: Array of advanced and world-class safety features ensuring well-being of driver and passengers.

-          Benchmark Warranty: Comprehensive warranty showcasing Toyota's customer centric endeavours by providing value-added services to ensure peace of mind for customers.

-          Bookings now open at a token amount of Rs. 11,000. with deliveries starting from May’2024.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), today launched the All-New Toyota URBAN CRUISER TAISOR, a dynamic addition to its robust and full range of versatile SUV line-up in India. Marking the company’s re-entry into the A-SUV segment, the All-New Toyota URBAN CRUISER TAISOR is positioned to offer a sense of prestige derived from the modern styling, cutting-edge features and advance technologies, which also makes it a perfect choice for Indian customers. The new product further reinforces the company’s commanding presence in the SUV category.

The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR is available in 1.0L Turbo, 1.2L Petrol and E-CNG options. The 1.0L Turbo is available in 5 Speed Manual Transmission and 6 Speed Automatic Transmission, thus offering a versatile choice for customers who prioritize both power and performance preferences. While the 1.2L Petrol comes in 5 Speed Manual Transmission and Intelligent Gear Shift (IGS), the 1.2L E-CNG is available in 5 Speed Manual Transmission.

The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR delivers maximum power of 100.06 PS @ 5500 rpm in the 1.0L Turbo option, offering a power packed driving experience with segment best fuel efficiency of 21.5* km/l for Manual and 20.0* km/l for Automatic. The 1.2L Petrol Engine offers maximum power of 89.73 PS @6000rpm with a fuel efficiency of 21.7* Manual and 22.8*(AMT) km/l. The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR is also available in the E-CNG option offering fuel efficiency of 28.5* km/kg.

Present at the event Mr. Masakazu Yoshimura, MD and CEO of Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Regional CEO at Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) said, “The Indian market has always been of paramount importance to us, both in terms of product offerings and introduction of advanced technologies. This emphasis was further underpinned by the recent creation of a new region where the Indian market plays an even more crucial role acting as the hub of the new “India, Middle East, East Asia & Oceania Region”. At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that the company is strategically positioned to capitalize on its 25-years excellence legacy backed by an aspiration to establish new standards in the Indian automotive industry.

Looking ahead, our business strategy in the market will be to continue to focus on contributing to national priorities of localization, developing a highly skilled workforce and achieving carbon goals. Furthermore, the customer first culture will continue to define our market strategy for years to come. With the newly introduced All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR, we are underlining our commitment to the customers by expanding choices to cater to their distinct needs thus delivering ‘Mass Happiness to All.”  

Also speaking at the launch, Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director – Sales-Service-Used Car TKM & Lexus said, “Today marks a momentous occasion as we launch the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR, an exceptional addition to our diverse vehicle lineup in the country. Over the years, our focus has been to deliver unparalleled customer delight by constantly adapting to evolving mobility requirements and lifestyle preferences. Inline, our efforts have also been to ensure that we enhance accessibility to our world-class products and benchmark value propositions thus energizing our mission of ‘Leave No One Behind’.

With its stylish exterior, refreshing interior, and advanced technological features, we are confident that the introduction of the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR will further reinforce Toyota's robust presence in the SUV segment. Overall, the segment is becoming extremely popular owing to evolving lifestyle preferences where buyers are looking for a versatile vehicle suitable for multi-usage. The new addition will certainly complement our existing and comprehensive SUV lineup comprising of LC300, Legender, Fortuner, Hilux and Urban Cruiser Hyryder as they continue to uphold strong positions in their respective segments.”

Commenting on the new launch Mr. Sabari Manohar, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR combines a power packed performance, best in-class fuel efficiency and a striking exterior design offering a sense of pride associated with Toyota’s SUV legacy. Its unique and stylish aerodynamic exterior design, combining form and function is aimed to enhance both visual appeal and performance.  This new SUV also integrates advanced powertrain technology to ensure that the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR delivers a seamless balance of performance and efficiency. Moreover, safety features with 6 airbags, Vehicle Stability Control with Hill Hold Assist & roll over mitigation in addition to other advanced features will ensure a safe driving experience. Modern tech features such as Head-Up Display, 360 View Camera, wireless charger and the (9”) HD Smartplay Cast infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity will fulfil customers aspiration for a seamless and convenient journey.”

Prestigious and Stylish Exterior of All-New Toyota URBAN CRUISER TAISOR proudly reflects Toyota's illustrious SUV pedigree through a bold, unique and stylish Aerodynamic Exterior design with a sleek sloping roofline, enhancing both visual appeal and performance. The vehicle boasts a premium front grille with chrome garnish showcasing Toyota's signature elegance uniquely created by Toyota designers. Complementing its sporty demeanour are the sleek 16” Machined Alloy wheels, the S+ and G variants stand-out with Dynamic All Black Painted Alloy Wheels. Twin LED Day Time Running Lights not only enhance visibility during the day but also contribute to a modern aesthetic. The Connected LED Rear Combi lamps, Shark Fin Antenna and the Sporty rear Skid Plate add a contemporary and adventurous touch. Sporty Roof Rails not only elevate the exterior's dynamic appeal but also provide additional utility. Furthermore, the inclusion of twin LED Turn Indicators and LED Multi-reflector headlamps offers safety with a touch of sophistication, completing the vehicle's exterior with a perfect balance of style and substance. The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR also features body cladding on the wheel arch and side doors for a robust touch and protection against minor scratches. Additionally, the vehicle features a high mount stop lamp integrated with the roof-end spoiler along with UV cut glass to protect occupants from harmful UV rays and reduce heat accumulation inside the cabin.

Designed to exceed expectations, interiors of the All-New Toyota URBAN CRUISER TAISOR immediately elevates the SUV experience with premium interiors and cabin comfort which combines aesthetic appeal with functionality. The vehicle's dual tone dashboard, adorned with silver metal finish accents, breathes life into the cabin, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The premium fabric seats offer a relaxed driving experience and the flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment ensures added convenience. Moreover, the Electric Power Steering further ensures a smooth and responsive handling experience to navigate effortlessly through city traffic or open highway. The cabin's atmosphere is perfected by the automatic climate control with rear AC vents, complemented by a 60:40 split rear foldable seat arrangement, adjustable seat headrest and enhanced boot space, offering flexibility for all travel needs. Comfort is further enhanced by a height-adjustable driver's seat, a versatile sliding front armrest with storage that adapt to your space needs.

Raising the bar of convenience, The All-New Toyota URBAN CRUISER TAISOR is loaded with an array of carefully designed features such as wireless charger, paddle shifters for an engaging driving experience and cruise control for to suit individual preferences. It also boasts of keyless entry, a smart engine push-start/stop system, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and steering wheel-mounted controls for seamless operation. Practicality is at the forefront of the vehicle with features like all-door power windows with anti-pinch technology and fast USB charging points.

Advanced connectivity and infotainment in the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR feature Head-Up Display, 360 View Camera, (9”) HD Smartplay Cast infotainment system, ARKAMYS Surround sound system with 6 speakers for immersive sound, wireless connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the convenience of Over the Air Update (OTA) updates. USB and Bluetooth options, alongside a pair of tweeters, enrich the audio experience, complemented by a vibrant TFT color multi-information display.

The Toyota iCONNECT system further redefines vehicle interaction providing a one stop intelligent solution for integrated & seamless experience of all things related to the vehicle. With iCONNECT, users can remotely control various functionalities such as climate, lock/unlock, hazard lights, and headlights and more. The system is fully compatible with smartwatches and Hey Siri voice assistant ensuring convenient access and control.

Toyota iCONNECT also prioritizes safety and security with features such as auto collision notification, tow alert, find my car, valet profile, vehicle health and malfunction indicator monitoring.

Equipped with advanced safety features, the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR prioritizes overall safety as the vehicle also offers cutting-edge safety technologies such as Vehicle Stability Control with Hill Hold Assist & roll over mitigation, 6 airbags, including Side and Curtain Airbags along with Dual Front Airbags, providing comprehensive protection. The vehicle also features 360 view camera, Reverse Parking Sensors (with Infographic Display), ABS with EBD, Seat Belt Reminder (Driver + Co Driver + Rear), All 3-Point ELR Seat Belts. Additional safety measures include a Rear Defogger for clear vision in all conditions, an Anti-theft Security System for peace of mind, ISOFIX points for child seats, Security alarms, and alerts for Over Speed, Door & Lock Status, Battery, Headlamp & Hazard Lights.

The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR will be available in exciting single tone and dual tone colors. The single tone colors consist of Cafe White, Enticing Silver, Gaming Grey, Sportin Red, Lucent Orange.  The dual tone colors include dual tones of Sportin Red Dual Tone, Enticing Silver Dual Tone and Cafe White Dual Tone.

The All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR presents a range of tailored finance schemes, including financing for Value Added Services such as extended warranty and Toyota Genuine Accessories package. Prioritizing affordability and flexibility for customers, TKM is offering options like 8- and 7-year funding plans with low EMIs, pre-approved funding for value-added services, and Toyota Smart Balloon Finance. Additionally, customers benefit from complimentary Toyota Roadside Assistance for the first five years, extended warranty with a standard coverage of 3 years/100,000 km, extendable up to 5 years/220,000 km, and Toyota Smiles Plus package for customizable prepaid maintenance.

Bookings for the All-New URBAN CRUISER TAISOR are open from 03 April 2024 at an amount of Rs. 11,000 with deliveries starting from May’ 2024. Customers can make their bookings online on www.toyotabharat.com or also visit their nearest Toyota dealership. For more details, customers can simply log on to www.toyotabharat.com.

*ARAI test results are yet to be obtained