Nutrify India Plans To Mark International Health And Nutrition Journalist Day On Feb 5,, 2021

Nutrify India has decided to justifiably recognize the efforts of health and nutrition journalists who have been a substantial catalyst in shaping the nutraceutical sector globally. Nutrify India will celebrate their first anniversary on 5th February, 2021 as an International Health and Nutrition Journalist Day. With a commitment to enable and empower India to become a leader in nutraceuticals they continue their endeavour to focus on the health and nutrition of journalist. For each success that this industry gains, it leads to celebration and growth, but in the journey of success, health and nutrition journalists are often ignored. Health and nutrition journalists play a critical role in creating an ecosystem that connects this industry.

The nutraceuticals industry is grappling with its own challenges in rectifying the various loopholes in the system. Along with the support extended by ministries and policymakers, the community of journalists also works towards ensuring a balance in the industry. They act as a vital link that churns out stories that can throw clear impressions of the progress of the ongoing developments. Through impeccable journalistic standards they have shaped the nutraceuticals sector not only India but globally as well.

India is considered as the foundation of nutrition, primarily in Ayurveda. India has the presence of a large number of botanical gardens in the world with 52 agro-climatic zones. Ironically, the substantive business of nutraceuticals, medicine ingredients and nutrition science are currently driven by countries other than India. India has a long way to go in structuring nutraceuticals as a dominant industry. The struggle of this sector ranges from ministry-related in competencies across health, food processing and Ayush campaigns. India constitutes only 2% of the global nutraceutical industry.

India has been recognized as a rapidly growing nutritional market with a stable demand for innovation due to its unique advantage of the availability of raw materials. Globally, a consumer’s daily diet consists of nutraceuticals thereby making this industry a very significant one. This domain has proved to have tremendous scope owing to aging population and rising healthcare costs. The Indian government is providing a critical thrust to Ayurveda which will further boost this sector. There are various competitive advantages that this industry can overcome with strong innovations that can lead to leveraging growth opportunities. India’s strong presence in the export market makes them a fierce contender in the global nutraceuticals market. 

University of Southern California And Amazon Establish Center For Secure And Trusted Machine Leaning

USC and Amazon today announced they are creating a joint research center focused on development of new approaches to machine learning (ML) privacy, security, and trustworthiness. The Center for Secure and Trusted Machine Learning, which will be housed at the University of Southern California’s Viterbi School of Engineering, will support USC and Amazon researchers in the development of novel approaches to privacy-preserving ML solutions. 

The expectation is that the center will unleash a new line of fundamental research on privacy and security aspects of machine learning – a timely and critical effort given the proliferation of artificial intelligence across all aspects of society from education to finance, transportation, healthcare, and many others.

Each year, the center will provide support for research projects focused on the development of new methodologies for secure and privacy-preserving machine learning solutions that can scale to support billions of users. In addition, the center will provide annual fellowships to talented doctoral students working in this research area, enabling them to advance research frontiers. Fellowship recipients will be named as Amazon ML Fellows in recognition of their promise and achievements. These fellowships will give students greater understanding of industry and solution-driven research.

“Developing solutions to protect our data requires cutting edge advances.  I am pleased the USC-Amazon center will build a platform based on a shared commitment to advancing understanding and developing solutions,” said USC Provost Charles F. Zukoski. “The center reflects the important role that our university has in society, as a leading research institution, in promoting the advancement of scholarship and technology.”

“At Amazon, our mission is to be Earth’s most customer-centric company,” said Prem Natarajan, Alexa AI vice president of Natural Understanding. “For us, customer trust is of paramount importance. And that means maintaining the highest possible standards of security and privacy when handling customer data.  We are delighted to bring together top talent at Amazon and USC in a joint mission to drive ground-breaking advances in privacy and security preserving machine learning – advances that enable us to continue to safely and securely deliver experiences that enrich and delight our customers worldwide.”

In addition to funded research projects and annual fellowships for doctoral students, the collaborators will host an annual joint public research symposium to share their knowledge with the machine learning and AI communities. Amazon and USC will also host annual workshops, and training and recruiting events for university and high school students.

“We are delighted to partner with Amazon in establishing the Center for Secure and Trusted Machine Learning at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Creating such mutually beneficial partnerships between academia and industry will help guide the development of a field as important and as rapidly changing as machine learning and artificial intelligence. Enhancing the security and trustworthiness of these powerful technologies is a necessity and a grand challenge-type problem. We eagerly anticipate the results of this new collaboration,” said Yannis C. Yortsos, dean of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.

Salman Avestimehr, professor and director of the Information Theory and Machine Learning research lab at USC Viterbi and an Amazon Scholar, will be the inaugural director of the center.

“The USC-Amazon center provides an exciting opportunity, through close university-industry collaboration, to study trust and security. Through the center’s Amazon ML Fellows program, we can also recognize our exceptional PhD students and further the impact of their research through collaborations with Amazon,” says Avestimehr.

The new center is expected to leverage talent and scholarship across Amazon and USC Viterbi, particularly the Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the Department of Computer Science, and the school’s leading research institutes, such as the Information Sciences Institute.

About USC Viterbi School of Engineering

Engineering began at the University of Southern California in 1905. Nearly a century later, in 2004, the school was named the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, honoring alumnus Andrew J. Viterbi, inventor of the Viterbi algorithm, a key to cell phone technology and numerous data applications. The school is consistently ranked among the top engineering programs in the world. It enrolls more than 7,000 undergraduate and graduate students, taught by 188 tenured and tenure-track faculty, with more than 90 endowed chairs and professorships. The school offers comprehensive programs in all major areas of engineering, from aerospace and astronautical engineering, to biomedical, chemical, civil and environmental engineering, to computer science and materials science, and to electrical engineering, industrial and systems engineering and mechanical engineering. With annual research expenditures exceeding $207M, the school is home to the Information Science Institute and more than 45 other research centers. Its more than 50,000 alumni span the globe. USC Viterbi is also home to the pioneering distance learning program DEN@Viterbi, ranked as the top such program in the nation the last two years. USC Viterbi is the only engineering school in the nation with three top-10 USNWR rankings: Best Graduate Schools, Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs, and Best Online Information Technology Programs.  

Keysight’s End-to-End Open RAN Solution Portfolio Drives Performance Reliability and Innovation in Multi-Vendor 5G Networks

Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS), a leading technology company that helps enterprises, service providers and governments accelerate innovation to connect and secure the world, has introduced a suite of end-to-end solutions that enables an ecosystem of Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) vendors and mobile operators to verify interoperability, performance, conformance and security of multi-vendor 5G networks based on O-RAN standard interfaces.

Many mobile operators are deploying cloud-native and virtualized radio access network (RAN) architectures based on specifications set by the O-RAN Alliance to deliver 5G services. The transition towards multi-vendor networks introduces interoperability and performance complexity. End-to-end testing, from the edge of the RAN to the 5G core (5GC), as well as from early pre-silicon development to system integration, ensures performance levels are met. Comprehensive testing across a heterogeneous network enables vendors to extend the capabilities of their designs and mobile operators to deliver solutions that support innovative service offerings.

“Vendors of radio units (O-RUs), distributed units (O-DUs), central units (O-CUs) and RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) need integrated, virtualized and cloud native solutions to validate performance, establish interoperability between network elements and ensure compliance to the latest O-RAN and 3GPP specifications,” said Giampaolo Tardioli, vice president and general manager for Keysight’s network access group. “Keysight’s end-to-end open RAN solution portfolio enables this ecosystem to verify components across every level of the protocol stack, ensuring that subsystems perform as expected and cohesively.”

Keysight’s Open RAN Architect (KORA) offers integrated solutions that accelerate the development, integration and deployment of O-RAN-compliant equipment. The suite is tailored to the supply chain workflow consisting of chipset makers, network equipment manufacturers (NEMs), mobile operators and Open Test and Integration Centers (OTIC). Users can uniquely access a common set of solutions to simplify the sharing of results across the workflow from pre-silicon to cloud deployments.

Keysight joined the O-RAN Alliance shortly after its inception. Early engagement with key industry stakeholders has resulted in broad and deep expertise in the O-RAN standards. As editor of the O-RAN fronthaul conformance test specifications in the O-RAN Alliance, Keysight’s continuous contributions to the development of the O-RAN standards is enabling the industry to verify compliance of O-RUs and O-DUs to O-RAN specifications using approved O-RAN test cases. As the liaison of the O-RAN Alliance Security Task Group, Keysight is helping to drive industry efforts that address security in open RANs.

Keysight’s Open RAN Architect (KORA) includes Open RAN Studio, UeSIM, RuSIM, CoreSIM, DuSIM, CuSIM, RIC Test, ATI Pentest, CyPerf, Breaking Point, Vision Edge, IxNetwork, CloudPeak, and Nemo Outdoor.

The portfolio covers both 3GPP and O-RAN testing and is segmented to support the following key stakeholders:

* Keysight Open RAN Architect (KORA) – Chip Designer Suite

Enables chipset vendors to verify compliance of O-RAN designs to O-RAN specifications using O-RAN simulation tools prior to tape out, reducing development time.

* Keysight Open RAN Architect (KORA) – NEM Suite

Enables open RAN hardware and software vendors to verify compliance to O-RAN specifications and interoperability, ensuring each function integrates as expected into a multi-vendor open RAN.

* Keysight Open RAN Architect (KORA) – Operator Suite

Enables mobile operators to verify conformance, interoperability and performance of subsystems that drive new 5G service revenue opportunities.

* Keysight Open RAN Architect (KORA) – OTIC Suite

Enables OTICs to validate conformance, interoperability and performance using tools that adhere to the O-RAN specifications with thorough, repeatable and automated processes.

Additional information regarding Keysight’s Open RAN Architect suites and solutions are available at:

www.keysight.com/find/ORAN

About Keysight Technologies

Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) is a leading technology company that helps enterprises, service providers and governments accelerate innovation to connect and secure the world. Keysight's solutions optimize networks and bring electronic products to market faster and at a lower cost with offerings from design simulation, to prototype validation, to manufacturing test, to optimization in networks and cloud environments. Customers span the worldwide communications ecosystem, aerospace and defense, automotive, energy, semiconductor and general electronics end markets. Keysight generated revenues of $4.2B in fiscal year 2020.

ThoughtWorks Launches First ‘Looking Glass,’ Bringing The Technology-LED Changes Impacting Business Into Focus

ThoughtWorks, a global software consultancy, today released Looking Glass, a guide to the critical technology-driven shifts set to shape business in 2021 and beyond. The report, which incorporates five-years of internal strategy and experiences from real-life client work, offers industry leaders a rare glimpse into how ThoughtWorks keeps the businesses they advise at the forefront of technology and innovation.

"Looking Glass is rich in insight and advice that will allow any business, from any industry, to look ahead at the technology trends impacting customer behavior and the tools driving enterprise growth," says Dr. Rebecca Parsons, chief technology officer at ThoughtWorks. "ThoughtWorkers have been successfully leveraging these technology lenses for our own business and for the many clients we serve. Today we are excited to invite business leaders from across the globe to peer into the Looking Glass alongside us."

Looking Glass identifies over 120 individual trends separated into six 'lenses' of focus for 2021, collectively giving businesses from all industries tools for success that extend beyond typical specified trend reports. Notably, ThoughtWorks offers a new interpretation of the term 'hostile tech,' which is commonly associated with criminal activity such as ransomware, data theft and computer viruses. Instead, hostile tech by this report's definition can encompass not just criminal tech, but also use cases like advertising and customer targeting, and isn't always malicious or intended.

"These are turbulent times with businesses facing more uncertainty than ever and increased pressure to rapidly digitize," said Julie Woods-Moss, chief marketing officer at ThoughtWorks. "Unlike traditional trends forecasts, Looking Glass gives businesses the actual tools and actionable insights needed to succeed in the coming year, but these principles are also crucial for long-term business planning. Looking Glass helps industry leaders cut through the noise of tech trends and focus on what is actually critical to business success."

The six lenses in this first-of-its-kind report are:

Humanity, augmented: Powerful new data-based tools are revolutionizing the way businesses make decisions and deploy talent, with broadly positive results. But these technologies also come with ethical and organizational challenges that responsible enterprises need to bear in mind.

Accelerating towards sustainability: As consumers, governments and investors demand greater environmental accountability from companies, going green has gone from optional to a business imperative. Technology will present both challenges and opportunities in the drive to embed sustainability in more activities and practices.

Evolving interactions: Consumers aren't just demanding availability and accessibility — they expect interactions to be seamless, and richer. Enterprises can deliver this experience through evolving interfaces that blend speech, touch and visuals.

Morphing of the computing fabric: The boundaries of computing are expanding, pushing the edges of what's possible for enterprises. The emerging computing environment not only provides the opportunity to tap into unprecedented data analysis and processing power, but also to structure computing architecture to better serve the needs of the business.

Coopetition forces platforms into ecosystems: The platforms created by businesses are increasingly only a starting point. Meeting rising customer expectations often requires joining up with or being open to other participants, turning platforms into ecosystems of related products and services that evolve dynamically as constituents cooperate and compete.

The expanding impact of hostile tech: 'Hostile' technology is commonly associated with criminal activity such as ransomware, breaking into a system to steal data or creating computer viruses — but this misses the complete picture. The landscape is evolving in a way that the definition of hostile tech should be broadened to include legal, even widely accepted, acts which ultimately threaten societal well-being.

ThoughtWorks' Looking Glass will be updated on an annual basis, to keep pace with the constant shifts in technology priorities and applications for businesses. Visit ThoughtWorks.com/insights/business to stay up to date with the latest business and industry insights for digital leaders.

About ThoughtWorks

We are a software consultancy and community of passionate purpose-led individuals, 7,000+ people strong across 46 offices in 15 countries. Over our 25+ year history, we have helped our clients solve complex business problems where technology is the differentiator. When the only constant is change, we prepare you for the unpredictable.

HSIL Delivered Strong Revenue Growth Of 10.8% And EBIT Growth Of 65.9% On Y-o-Y

 HSIL Limited, India’s leading packaging and building products manufacturing company, today announced its financial results for the third quarter ended on December 31, 2020.

Financial Performance Highlights: Q3 FY2021

* Total income of ? 548 crore, growth of 10.8% on Y-o-Y basis

* EBITDA of ? 101 crore, growth of 35.5% on Y-o-Y basis with EBITDA margins of 18.4%

* EBIT of ? 70 crore with EBIT margins of 12.7%

* Net profit of ? 36 crore with margins of 6.6%

Q3 FY2021 Results Update:

Total income for the third quarter of FY2021 was ? 548 crore compared to ? 494 crore in the same quarter last year, a growth of 10.8% on Y-o-Y basis. Despite the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, sales rebounded successively in the third quarter driven by improved average realizations, improved product mix and a strong recovery in volumes underpinned by robust demand from alcoholic beverage industry. Packaging Products reported Revenue from Operations of ? 361 crore, a growth of 15.2% on Y-o-Y basis while Building Products reported Revenue from Operations of ? 179 crore, a growth of 29.8 % on Y-o-Y basis.

HSIL reported EBITDA of ? 101 crore with EBITDA margins improving to 18.4% as compared to 15.0% in Q3 FY2020. The margin improvement was driven by improved capacity utilization levels coupled with optimized sourcing of key raw materials. Adjusted PAT margins were 6.6% in Q3 FY2021 as compared to 3.2% in Q3 FY2020 and 5.0% in Q2 FY2021. The income tax writebacks of ? 14.7 crore in Q2 FY2021 resulted in higher profit after tax during that period.

During the quarter, Company also completed the Buy Back of 7.59 million shares for an amount aggregating to ? 63.9 crore. The Company has utilized 91.32% of the maximum Buy Back Size excluding the transaction costs, as per regulatory provisions.

Business Vertical Performance: In Packaging Products, sales recovered very well with volumes driven largely by beer, food & beverage industry. Due to optimized sourcing of key raw materials and higher capacity utilization, EBIT margins improved to 17.6% in Q3 FY2021 from 14.2% in Q3 FY2020. During the quarter, 46 new products were developed, and 13 new products were also commercialized. In Building Products, post Covid-19 lockdowns, all the plants are now operational and the capacity utilization levels have improved sequentially.

HSIL maintained its focus on Packaging Products Business and the segment saw sales volumes growth during the quarter, reflecting consumers’ preference for quality and sustainable packaging alternatives. The Company also aligned its operations to navigate successfully in the challenging environment and was able to generate strong results with the expectation of benefiting from operational efficiencies and cost reduction efforts in the longer run.

Commenting on the quarterly results, Mr. Sandip Somany, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, HSIL Limited said, “For the quarter under review, HSIL Limited has delivered excellent results on the back of higher capacity utilization, operational efficiency and cost optimization measures resulting in resilient margins. Our Glass business continues to accelerate, while Building Products Division reported another strong quarter of sustained growth.”

Given the strong demand and better opportunities in the glass packaging market, the company plans to invest ? 220 crore to manufacture high margin specialty glass with a manufacturing capacity of 150 tonnes per day which will be completed within next 18 months.

About HSIL Limited:

HSIL Limited is India’s leading Packaging Products Company that manufactures and markets various packaging products, including glass containers and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles, products & security caps, and closures. Packaging Products Division has six plants in India, located across Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka. This Division has a comprehensive product range, catering to 500+ globally acclaimed institutional clients in India. The company’s Building Products division primarily comprises the manufacturing of sanitaryware, faucets, and plastic pipes and fittings and has five plants spread across Haryana, Rajasthan, and Telangana.

The Sporty, Smart, Stunning Renault Kiger Makes Its Debut In India

 * Showcases Renault’s focus on disruptive innovation and will radically alter the dynamics in the B-SUV segment

* To be first launched in India, followed by other markets

* Stunning design: Distinct, athletic design combining urban modernity with agility and muscular bodywork that exudes sturdiness and dynamism

* Smart Cabin: A smart cabin that combines technology, functionality and roominess, Renault KIGER brings latest tech features to the CMFA+ platform that laid the foundation for the success of TRIBER with segment leading roominess, cabin storage and cargo space

* Sporty Drive Powered by a New Global Engine: Renault KIGER will come with a brand-new turbo petrol engine, providing both performance and fuel efficiency

After the initial exhilaration created by the reveal of its show car, Groupe Renault globally premiered the eagerly awaited Renault KIGER in India today. A brand-new compact SUV designed and developed for India before making its international debut, Renault KIGER is the latest in the line of revolutionary products to be launched by Renault in India. Just like DUSTER, KWID AND TRIBER, Renault KIGER will also change the dynamics in its segment and promises to be another gamechanger from Renault.

Renault KIGER has already made a striking presence thanks to its Stunning design, which depicts a very strong personality. Renault KIGER has been designed with a host of sporty and muscular elements and stands out as a true SUV. On the inside, Renault KIGER’s Smart cabin combines technology, functionality and roominess. Renault KIGER will be powered by a new turbocharged 1.0L petrol engine for more performance and driving pleasure. The engine has been tested for reliability and durability, and offers the latest technological innovations already featured on Renault’s global range. This high performance, modern and efficient engine will ensure a Sporty drive and will be complemented by multi sense drive modes which offer the flexibility to best suit the customers driving preferences.

“After Duster, Kwid and Triber, we are now preparing for the launch of Renault KIGER, a modern SUV that is a perfect fit for the Indian market. KIGER combines the best Renault has to offer: our expertise in innovative cars with the creativity and in-depth knowledge of customer needs. A strong proof that Renault really is a game-changer,” shared Fabrice Cambolive, SVP, Renault Brand, Sales & Operations.

“True to the promise of the show-car, Renault KIGER is a robust, dynamic and generous SUV. Armed for travel in the urban jungle, we also designed it for the outdoors and to easily navigate any type of road conditions. KIGER has a distinctive SUV look and its long wheelbase enables great space and volume on board. Its ‘smart cabin’ has been specially designed to encourage sharing and convenience,” added Laurens van den Acker, EVP, Head of Design, Groupe Renault.

Renault KIGER will demonstrate the competence of India’s design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities and highlights Renault’s strong commitment to the ‘Make in India’ mission. In India, Groupe Renault has always focused to be disruptive and innovative which is amply proven with its product range. Renault will further build on this with the launch of the all-new Renault KIGER. 

Commenting on Renault KIGER and the importance of the India market, Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO & Managing Director, Renault India Operations, shared, “Renault has continued to move forward in India and has navigated the challenging macro-economic environment, bettering the industry trends. We have managed this by our robust business strategy which includes our exciting product range, laser-sharp focus on quality and customer centricity and our aggressive network ramp up across the country. Today, we take another major step in India with the global reveal of Renault KIGER, our all-new B-SUV which will stand out as an excitingly sporty, super smart and attractively stunning offering. Following Duster, which made SUVs accessible to a large set of people, not just in India but across the world, Renault KIGER will once again make SUV aspirations accessible to a whole new set of customers and we look forward to building on our increasing customer base with this new game-changer.”

RENAULT KIGER: STUNNING DESIGN

With its distinct, athletic design that is bursting with energy, the KIGER SUV combines urban modernity with agility, whichever road it takes. With its muscular bodywork that exudes sturdiness and dynamism, the KIGER is a real invitation to escape the urban jungle and experience a new kind of driving.

Sturdy on the road

The KIGER’S design was inspired by the KIGER show-car that was unveiled at the end of 2020. A sculpted bonnet that enhances the car’s personality sits at the front, above an impressive bumper. The wings boost the design with their pronounced shoulder lines, while the black sills and wheel arches provide further protection. The high ground clearance (205 mm) and functional roof bars heighten the vehicle’s silhouette and complete its bold SUV look.

Wheels built for adventure

At higher trim levels, the KIGER’S 40.64 cm alloy wheels have a black diamond-cut finish for a sporty and stylish look. The protective wheel arch cladding makes the bodywork look bolder and sturdier. The 2,500 mm long wheelbase places the wheels at the four corners of the vehicle, offering increased stability on any type of road while optimising the space inside the car, providing optimum comfort for each passenger and boot volume of 405 Litres that is unrivalled in the segment.

Strong and agile, athletic curves

The top of the KIGER boasts a dynamic silhouette with sleek and taut lines, in contrast with the more muscular and solid lower part. The slender windscreen extends into a floating roof that runs down to a steep-sloping rear window, giving the car a coupé-style SUV look. The aerodynamic spoiler with cut-outs featured on the roof drop is topped by a shark fin antenna to give the car a very distinctive look.

Sporty design expression

Renault designers have equipped the KIGER with several features to give the car a sporty look. The front grille’s 3D graphic finish with honeycomb-shaped chromed effects is a perfect example, while the Aluminium Finish skid plate further enhances the rear bumper.

The boot door’s sloping and sporty rear window, finished off with the integrated spoiler, once again highlights KIGER’S aerodynamic silhouette.

Modern and striking front end

The upper strip formed by the front grille and the LED daytime running lights positioned at both ends give the car an elevated stance. The highly recognisable lower part divides the bumper into two areas, each large corner featuring three LED headlights separately encased in a chrome octagonal unit with PURE VISION and a chrome reflector. This coherent and overlapping split-design contrasts with the bodywork and gives a strong identity with modernity and sophistication.

Rear lighting signature

All-new LED taillights light up the rear of the car. The tail lamp units with glossy black inserts are resolutely modern and distinctive within the segment, outlining the KIGER’S rear double C-shaped lighting signature. They are featured at each end of the bodywork and extend out over the wings, providing Kiger a distinct unique personality.

Two-tone body colour

The KIGER comes in six exciting body colours: Ice Cool White, Planet Grey, Moonlight Grey, Mahogany Brown, Caspian Blue, Radiant Red with Mystery Black Roof. All trim-levels include a two-tone option. Providing an opportunity to customers to choose from the wide range of single or dual tone colour options, Radiant Red which is an exclusive colour will only be available as a top variant under two-tone colour scheme.

RENAULT KIGER: SMART CABIN

A compact yet surprisingly spacious vehicle

KIGER interiors are called the smart cabin as it combines technology, functionality and roominess. KIGER is just under four metres long and falls into the compact SUV category, yet thanks to the CMFA+ platform DNA, just like Triber it offers segment leading roominess, cabin storage and cargo space. The interior has been designed to perfectly combine the sturdiness of an SUV with a focus on sophistication and technology.  With a high centre console, 20.32 cm floating display link and wireless smart phone replication, KIGER interiors have been specially designed to encourage sharing and convenience.

Attractive style

The chiselled curves that play with light and shade give the impression of a floating cockpit, accentuated by piano-style control dials, suspended air conditioning controls and a pedestal that is easily accessible from the centre console. The console features a 20.32 cm floating touch screen, giving the passenger compartment a modern look, and so does a 17.78 cm Multi-Skin Reconfigurable TFT colour cluster.

Unprecedented comfort and roominess

The KIGER provides record levels of roominess with space onboard that you can feel. At the front, the KIGER offers a 710-mm Couple Distance between seats – the best in its segment. At the rear, KIGER provides best in segment second row legroom (222 mm) and elbow room (1431 mm). The seat height provides a commanding driving position accentuating driving comfort.

Optimum Boot capacity

The Kiger sets a very high standard when it comes to load capacity, offering the best boot capacity in the segment (405 litres which extends to 879 litres with second row folded).

Optimised storage space

The KIGER provides passengers with a whole host of clever storage compartments for a total onboard capacity of 29L including four 1L water bottle holders and 2 cup holders – an outstanding figure in the segment. The central armrest hides a 7.5 litre storage space while the glove compartment has an unprecedented volume of 10.5 litres. Smart solutions like these allow multi-level access organised with the needs of passengers in mind.

Smart and practical passenger compartment

The KIGER’S smart cockpit was designed to give a practical onboard experience without detracting from the style. Its new technology makes every day driving easy and enjoyable.

Modern and smart central console

The KIGER’S high, wide centre console is focused around a large 20.32 cm floating touch screen that features wireless smart phone replication for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at higher trims. Wireless smart phone replication allows passengers to connect their smartphones seamlessly and access the special driving and multimedia apps. Passengers can select five permanent shortcuts for faster access to apps and features. The system not only offers voice recognition through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but also Bluetooth connectivity that can pair with up to five devices, a USB socket for faster charging and a built-in MP4 video player.

MULTI-SENSE driving experience and ambiance lighting

At higher trim levels, the driver has access to MULTI-SENSE settings to select different driving modes. Engine mapping, gear changes (for automatic transmissions), the responsive steering column and the digital speedometer are reset when changing driving modes, for an optimum driving experience.

· Multi-Skin 17.78 cm Reconfigurable TFT cluster changes its colour and widget configuration according to the mode selected, displaying useful information relevant to selected driving mode:

· Normal mode: Provides an optimum driving parameter of the engine apt for city driving conditions. It also provides handy information like real-time & average fuel consumption all in a blue colour look.

·  Eco mode: Provides a drive which is inclined towards economic driving practices. Changing the overall appearance of the TFT into green, the indicators, like an animated leaf provides real time feedback to maximize economic driving.

·  Sports Mode: Provides a driving environment which is full of fun and sportiness, with crisper engine response and faster shifting. The overall TFT screen appearance turns into red with quick information of acceleration gauge, torque / power ratios etc providing drivers to have all the fun!

Premium sound system

The KIGER boasts a brand new, well-tuned quality sound system: The Auditorium 3D Sound system by Arkamys, with a technology that diffuses 3D sound tailor-made to suit the materials and shape of the passenger compartment. All in all, there are eight onboard speakers (four boomers, four tweeters). The system also automatically adjusts sound volume according to the speed of the vehicle at higher trim levels. The system can be activated and adjusted on demand to ensure the best sound quality whatever the route.

Hands-free smart access card

With the modern hands-free card for everyday convenience, doors can be opened and closed automatically, and the engine started without a key. The sensors in the card allow drivers to lock and unlock the doors without having to take the card out of their pocket or press a button. They can also start the vehicle without having to insert the card. The hands-free system also includes a door auto-lock function when drivers walk away from the vehicle. This feature is a real time-saver and incredibly convenient.

Easier manoeuvring

The KIGER uses technology to ensure safety with radar sensors and a reverse camera with guiding lines. The driver can enjoy greater visibility and precision when reversing or manoeuvring for parking. The turning radius is 5.02 metres.

Additional all-new exclusive features

The KIGER boasts a variety of unique features, including automatic air-conditioning, which can still be adjusted manually via the air-conditioning control.

Another new feature available at higher trim levels is the white ambient lighting in the passenger compartment. It lights up the storage compartment at the front of the centre console and the back of the front door grip handles.

Cockpit features back-lit steering wheel controls. These have a whole host of settings such as access to the onboard computer menu, speaker volume, phone and radio features and voice recognition. Kiger will also feature a first in segment PM2.5 Clean Air Filter. This advanced atmospheric filter fitted in to the ventilation system ensures good air quality inside the vehicle.

RENAULT KIGER: SPORTY DRIVE

Platform and Engines

The KIGER features a new turbocharged petrol engine for more versatility and driving pleasure. The modular platform, designed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance and already featured on the Triber, provides the right balance between performance and efficiency.

A platform full of advantages

The KIGER shares the same modular platform as the Triber, meaning that it offers key advantages unparalleled in the market:

·        Roomier passenger compartment

·        Optimisation of engine compartment size

·        Best in Segment Cabin Storage space. Best in segment Cargo Space

·        Best in segment Rear elbow width - 3 passengers accommodated comfortably

·        Best in Segment turning Radius

·        Best in Segment dashboard visibility from rear seat

·        Comfort and driving pleasure

·        Best in segment fuel efficiency

·        Higher Ground Clearance

The KIGER’S platform and new engine guarantee response and versatility for the best possible driving experience.

Powerful engine and driving pleasure

The KIGER is fitted with a three-cylinder turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine, with a power output of 100 Ps and a torque of 160 Nm (available from 3,200 rpm). The engine has been tested for reliability and longevity, and offers the latest technological innovations already featured on the Clio and the Captur in Europe. It boasts the best fuel economy of its category with 20 km/litre consumption.

The 1.0-litre 100 Ps turbocharged engine is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. An X-TRONIC automatic continuously variable transmission will be available shortly after the KIGER’S commercial launch. This latest-generation CVT gearbox designed by the Alliance provides smooth and responsive transitions enhancing drivability and comfort in urban areas, along with excellent fuel efficiency.

The ENERGY 1.0-litre 72 Ps and 96 Nm naturally aspirated engine is also available in the KIGER range, with either a five-speed manual or the EASY-R five-speed robotised gearbox AMT, which provides the comfort of clutchless driving at affordable pricing. It features a manual mode that allows the driver to drive either in fully automatic or sequential mode. It ensures efficient engine starting, safe car-overtaking manoeuvres and the best possible driving pleasure, with an outstanding power-to-weight ratio and best in segment torque-to-weight ratio in the compact SUV segment.

Onboard safety

On board, the two front seats and the two rear side seats are fitted with three-point seatbelts, while the rear middle passenger seat features a two-point seatbelt.

The two front airbags for the driver and front-seat passenger along with the two side airbags round out the safety suite.

Both front seats get seat belt reminder alert for enhanced safety.

Aditya Birla Fashion And Retail Announces Partnership With Designer Brand “Sabyasachi”

India’s leading fashion company, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited has announced a strategic partnership with India’s largest designer brand “Sabyasachi” by signing a definitive agreement for acquiring 51% stake in Sabyasachi brand.  Sabyasachi is India’s largest and most influential luxury designer brand with strong Indian roots and global appeal. The brand straddles categories such as apparel, accessories and jewelry and has a strong franchise in India, US, UK and the Middle East. The ABFRL platform will complement brand Sabyasachi on its journey to becoming a global luxury house out of India. 

This partnership will add significant weight to ABFRL’s growing ethnic wear portfolio. This will accelerate the company’s strategy to capture a large share of ethnic wear market through a comprehensive & attractive portfolio of brands, across key consumer segments, usage occasions and geographies. The company expects to build a large ethnic wear business over next few years to complement its strong and diverse portfolio in western wear segment of the Indian apparel market. 

Commenting on the partnership with ace designer Sabyasachi, Mr. Ashish Dikshit, Managing Director, ABFRL said: “We believe that over the next few years, ethnic wear is going to be an increasingly important category as young and confident Indians rediscover their culture and heritage. The Sabyasachi brand, through its emphasis on excellence in design and craftsmanship has set new benchmarks and captivated the imagination of the sophisticated global Indian consumer. We are proud to partner Sabyasachi in its journey to become the only global luxury brand from India. We see a ‘Made in India’ global brand like Sabyasachi occupying the pinnacle of our ethnic wear portfolio. Over the next few years, ABFRL intends to craft a portfolio that addresses the entire gamut of ethnic wear segments: value, premium and luxury.”  

Mr. Sabyasachi Mukherjee, CEO and Founder, Sabyasachi Brand, said: “Over the course of the last couple of years, as my brand evolved and matured, I began searching for the right partner in order to ensure continuity and long-term sustainable growth. I am honoured and excited to have found that partner in Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla and ABFRL. Aligned in our vision, and committed to excellence, we will work together to grow a truly global luxury brand out of India.” 

The proposed acquisition is subject to necessary statutory approvals and signing of definitive agreements.  EY, PWC and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co were the transaction advisors for Sabyasachi; ABFRL was advised by KPMG, Khaitan & Co and Transaction Square LLP. 

About Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited 

ABFRL is part of a leading Indian conglomerate, The Aditya Birla Group. With revenue of Rs. 8,788 Cr in FY19-20, it is India’s first billion-dollar pure-play fashion powerhouse with an elegant bouquet of leading fashion brands and retail formats. 

As on 30th September 2020, The Company has a network of 3,025 stores across approximately 26,000 multi-brand outlets with 6,500+ point of sales in department stores across India. 

It has a repertoire of market leading brands such as Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly and Peter England established for over 25 years. Pantaloons is one of India’s largest value retail brand.  

The Company also holds exclusive online and offline rights of Forever 21. The International Brands portfolio includes - The Collective, India's largest multi-brand retailer of international brands, Simon Carter and select mono-brands such as American Eagle, Ralph Lauren, Hackett London, Ted Baker and Fred Perry. Additionally, the company has also made a foray in the branded ethnic wear through investments in Jaypore and Shantanu & Nikhil. 

About Sabyasachi 

Since 1999, Sabyasachi has been sharing with the world a unique story of Indian excellence. The brand has emerged as one of the most influential cultural voices in the country — shaping modern fashion and lifestyle while celebrating artisanal craftsmanship and traditional techniques in each and every product. Today, with solid footing in the domestic retail landscape, several major global collaborations, and international flagships opening soon, Sabyasachi continues on its path to becoming the first global luxury house out of India.