Castrol India Launches Its Fourth Edition Of Super Mechanic Contest

* This year’s edition, conducted in partnership with the TV9 network, will cover over 100,000 mechanics across India through learning programs and live masterclasses

Castrol, India’s leading lubricant company, has launched the fourth edition of the country’s largest and most awaited mechanic skilling initiative, the Castrol Super Mechanic Contest (SMC). Launched in 2017, this highly successful initiative provides a holistic platform for India’s car and bike mechanics to hone their skills, demonstrate their talent, and earn national recognition. This year’s contest theme of #SeekhengeJeetengeBadhenge salutes the passion and the spirit of mechanics who keep India moving and will provide them an opportunity to upskill themselves with new technological advancements in the automotive sector. Participating mechanics will test their skills with other mechanics across the country to emerge as the 2021 Castrol Super Mechanic. 

Amidst the ongoing pandemic, the Super Mechanic Contest 2021 will leverage both physical and digital mediums to expand its reach across India’s mechanic community and enable maximum participation. It will aim to bring over 100,000 mechanics onboard for the contest. Registrations for the contest will be conducted through an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) round, as well as a dedicated web portal, with 9 available language options – English, Hindi, Bengali, Telegu, Kannada, Gujarati, Marathi, Malayalam, and Tamil. Castrol will partner with the TV9 network to co-create and promote the Super Mechanic Contest 2021, which will be hosted by popular GEC actor Ravi Dubey, who has been the face of the contest since its launch in 2017. 

This year’s contest will feature a range of exciting new digital tools that will make participation across phases more interactive and personalized. These will include daily auto content that engages participants by providing information around the contest, tips to crack successive rounds and master the fastest finger first, and potential rewards & recognition that winners will receive. Besides this, SMC 2021 will also include a mobile game to enable participating mechanics to master various assignments and challenges. External experts and previous Super Mechanic Contest winners will also conduct a series of live masterclasses with the participants to help them sharpen their skills.

Link to the YouTube video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hwDW94X8p0

In 2021, Castrol aims to quadruple the number of mechanics trained through its masterclasses, compared to the number of mechanics trained in the 2019 edition of the contest. Castrol will collaborate with the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) of India for the certified upskilling of shortlisted mechanics through its masterclass sessions. 

Extending support to the initiative, Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of Education, Government of India, said, “Castrol Super Mechanic Contest is a program that has consistently worked alongside the Government of India’s mission of Skill India, aiding mechanics across the country to hone their talent and skills. We congratulate Castrol India for launching its fourth successful edition of the contest and hope it will enrich the knowledge and skill sets of mechanics, fulfilling our vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat”. 

Announcing the launch, Sandeep Sangwan, Managing Director, Castrol India Limited, said, “We are thrilled to kickstart the fourth edition of Castrol Super Mechanic, a contest that has consistently placed the interests of the mechanic community at its core. Over the years, this contest has empowered the mechanic community to demonstrate their talent and upgrade their skill sets with the latest industry knowledge made available to them through this platform. This year’s theme, #SeekhengeJeetengeBadhenge, resonates with the spirit of being future-ready as the contest extends its commitment to equip all participants with relevant skills that can help them navigate new changes and challenges in the times to come.”

He further added, “The pandemic has reminded us more than ever of the need to match our pace with changing times. At Castrol India, we believe it is our responsibility to fuel the ambitions, and future-proof the livelihoods, of the mechanic community –a pivotal force that keeps India moving. We hope it can inspire them in their journey towards success and recognition.” 

Arindam Lahiri, CEO, Automotive Skills Development Council – India, said “Upskilling and continuous knowledge transfer plays a crucial role in propelling the growth trajectories of mechanics and automobile professionals. We are delighted to partner with Castrol India and hope to leverage this platform to train mechanics in new-age vehicle maintenance and the latest technologies. ASDC aims to provide a comprehensive and structured knowledge paradigm and certified learning sessions that will ensure their relevance in the industry and improve their opportunities for a sustainable livelihood.”

Castrol Super Mechanic will be promoted across TV9 network channels and digital platforms. Commenting on the partnership, Barun Das, CEO, TV9 Network, said, “TV9 Network is excited to be associated with Castrol Super Mechanic Contest, which is an attempt to bring about positive changes in the lives of bike and car mechanics. We are glad to be part of this unique upskilling initiative for mechanics, who play a key role in keeping the wheels of our economy moving. This partnership reinforces the TV9 Network’s commitment towards people’s welfare and progress. We truly hope that Castrol Super Mechanic Contest will empower and inspire mechanics across every nook and corner of India to explore their true potential and embrace new opportunities.”

Following the digital progression of its phases and successive rounds, the contest will culminate into an in-person grand finale that will be held in Delhi NCR. The winners will be felicitated in the presence of honorable dignitaries. The contest and finale will be covered in varying capacities across television and online digital platforms, presenting several mechanics with a lifetime opportunity to feature on national television. 

Reflecting on his astonishing journey, Super Mechanic Hardevsinh Jadeja, winner of Castrol Super Mechanic Contest 2019, said, “I am so glad that Super Mechanic is back this year! It has provided me with such an enriching platform to upgrade my skills and gain national recognition. I urge all my fellow mechanics across India to participate in the contest. It has been a truly life-changing platform for me!”

How to participate?

To participate, interested applicants can dial 18005325999 and follow further directions.

Mechanics will also be informed through SMS and can stay updated by visiting www.castrolsupermechaniccontest.in

India’s First Sub-Compact SUV, Tata Punch, Is Also India’s Safest Car

* Receives a 5-star safety rating of 16.453 from Global NCAP,

* Highest adult occupant protection rating any vehicle has received in India

Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile brand, today announced that its most recent addition to its popular ‘New Forever’ range of SUVs, the Tata Punch, also India’s first sub-compact SUV has become the latest recipient of the 5-star rating (16.453) for adult occupant protection and 4-star rating (40.891) for child occupant protection from Global NCAP, the foremost global car assessment programme. The Punch is third car from Tata Motors to receive this recognition after Altroz in January 2020 and Nexon in December 2018.

Designed across its studios in India, UK, and Italy, the Punch has been developed to herald the creation of an entirely new category - the sub-compact SUV, to address a growing customer need for a small in size but big on space, safety, performance and features.

Absolute Safety Features  

Ø Dual Airbags

Ø ABS with EBD and Corner Stability Control

Ø Segment First Feature: Brake Sway Control - detects the tendency of instability during abrupt braking before the ABS kicks in to avoid vehicle swaying from the driving path

Ø Front Fog Lamp with Cornering Function 

Ø Child Seat ISOFIX Anchor Points

Ø Perimetric Alarm System

Ø Reverse Parking Camera

Ø Driver & Co-Driver Seat Belt Reminders

Ø Tire Puncture repair Kit

Ø Extensive use of High Strength Steel

Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President, Passenger Vehicles Business, Tata Motors, said, “SUVs are the ideal solution for Indian customers as they offer a perfect balance of performance, comfort and durability suited for Indian roads.  When we were developing the Punch, we were very clear that despite its compact size, we wanted to offer customers a holistic package. The Punch reinforces the four core pillars that define all Tata SUVs- Stunning Design, Versatile and Engaging Performance, Roomy and Spacious Interiors, and Absolute Safety. We are proud to have delivered yet another product that will be regarded as the safest passenger vehicle on Indian roads. This landmark achievement by Tata Motors is also a testament of the fact that the automotive industry in India is capable of delivering the highest global standards of safety in vehicles.”

According to Mr Rajendra Petkar, President & Chief Technology Officer, Tata Motors, “We are delighted to offer yet another 5-star rated car from our stable - The Tata Punch. It is an Industry first achievement in the sub-compact SUV segment and a testimony to Tata Motors continued commitment and leadership on product safety. This achievement is in line with our philosophy that vehicle safety should be made accessible to all. Getting the GNCAP 5-star for vehicle program comes as an outcome of the relentless hard work put in by cross-functional teams across the organization, including our supplier partners. Together they have delivered yet another excellent package consisting of an outstanding structural integrity while deploying “digital first” strategy. The Company has dedicated itself to the mission of ‘Safe Bharat’ by developing innovative and safe mobility solutions and is committed to the mobility transformation through Connected, Electrified, Shared & Safe (CESS) approach.”

Built on the proven and modern Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) Architecture, the PUNCH incorporate several industry first innovations to enhance both functionality and driving pleasure. Its tall stance, high ground clearance and commanding driving position provide an exhilarating driving experience even while navigating all the unexpected challenges that Indian roads offer. The class leading comfort, advanced infotainment and connectivity match the high expectations of the discerning Indian car-buyers.

The Iconic Side Of Thrill: The New BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition Launched In India

* Limited units available on BMW Online Shop.

* Unmistakable Presence & Comfort: BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grille, rear seat headrest cushion, Exclusive Crystal Gear Shift Knob.

* Ultimate sports sedan for the driver. Unmatched luxury for passengers.

* Thrilling performance: Typical BMW driving dynamics, unbridled power.

* #The3GranLimousineIconicEdition #The3GranLimousine #TheGrandSideOfThrill #SheerDrivingPleasure

BMW India has launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition in the country. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai exclusively for the Indian market, the car is available in both petrol and diesel variants at all BMW India dealerships from today onwards.

The long wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ Iconic Edition is a latest addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It is the long wheelbase version of the highly successful BMW 3 Series. It has been launched in India considering the clientele’s preference for long sedans. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition takes on the position of the longest, most spacious and comfortable car in its segment and sets a new benchmark in the class. It offers sportiness, comfort and innovations exclusively for the Indian market.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW India will celebrate this festive season with the launch of three fascinating limited editions across its product range. The 3 Series Gran Limousine has set a new standard in luxury with its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance. We are delighted to present the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition with an enhanced, unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as their families. Limited units of this ‘Iconic Edition’ Gran Limousine are tailored with an innovative proposition that will attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition blends the joy of driving and the outstanding comfort of an extremely spacious sedan. The grandeur rises many notches higher, thanks to a modern design with a larger, elongated body and bigger rear doors. Due to the extended wheelbase, there is more room to unwind, more legroom for rear passengers and a pleasant seating experience even on long journeys. The powerful engine ensures thrilling performance and acceleration. The long list of indulgence features such as BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grille, Exclusive Crystal Gear Shift Knob, Rear Seat Headrest Cushion, Panorama Glass Sunroof, Comfort Seats in front, bespoke ‘Vernasca’ leather upholstery, luxurious rear seat, Parking Assist with Reverse Assist, Ambient Lighting, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Wireless Charging adds to its appeal.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition is available in one diesel variant (BMW 320Ld Luxury Line) and one petrol variant (BMW 330Li Luxury Line) which are locally produced. The ex-showroom prices are –

BMW 330Li Iconic Edition   :           INR 53,50,000

BMW 320Ld Iconic Edition   :           INR 54,90,000

Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices inclusive of GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but exclude Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax cess levies and insurance. Price / options are subject to change without prior notice. *For further information, contact an authorised BMW dealer.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition is available in three exciting metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. Upholstery in Cognac | Black

Thanks to BMW India Financial Services, customized and flexible financial solutions can be designed as per individual requirements. BMW 360˚ offers exclusive packages with great value and peace of mind. Customers enjoy hassle-free ownership with low monthly payments, assured buy-back up to four years and flexible term-end options. Exclusive interest rates will also be applicable for a limited period.

Service Inclusive and Service Inclusive Plus further reduce cost of ownership. Customers can choose from a variety of service plans according to duration and mileage. The packages cover Condition Based Service (CBS) and maintenance work with plans ranging from 3 yrs / 40,000 kms to 10 yrs / 2,00,000 kms. Service Inclusive packages for the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition start from INR 48262 for petrol variants and INR 65,018 for diesel variants. Additionally, the packages can be extended during the run time by just paying a differential amount. Repair Inclusive extends warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum sixth year, after the completion of the standard two-year warranty period. For 3 years, unlimited mileage on the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition, it costs INR 38,114 for both petrol and diesel variants.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition

The exterior body design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition blends the new, extremely precise design language and sporting aura of the BMW 3 Series with distinctive proportions. The unique character in long-wheelbase guise stems from an extra 110 millimetres of wheelbase and the associated increase in seating comfort and legroom in the rear compartment. Encompassing an exterior length of 4,819 millimeters and a 2,961-millimetre wheelbase, the exterior dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition outstrip those of any other car in its class.

Creating a striking front look is the large BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grille with single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. The kidney grilles Iconic Glow lends the vehicle a unique radiance. LED lighting exclusively sets the scene for the BMW kidney grille and the zone in front of the vehicle from opening to starting and from switching off the ignition to locking the vehicle. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment. The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. A sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L- shaped LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate grand cabin spaciousness with ample legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The exclusive Crystal Gear Shift Knob lends the cockpit a modern look with its eye-catching facets and an illuminated "3" model logo for an even more elegant look at night. The rear seat comfort is further enhanced with Reat Seat Headrest Cushion and Coat Hanger with base carrier. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long-distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened / closed at the press of a button.

Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster / control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. The three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

Thanks to unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol and diesel engines meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 6.2 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 7.6 seconds.

The eight speed steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver can choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions - ECO PRO, Comfort, Sport and Sport+.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25 inch Control Display. The occupants can operate a number of functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. The car has a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

Wipro Ltd Records Strong Operating Performance In Q2FY22

HOLD

CMP: Rs673  |

Target Price: Rs680

■    Wipro's IT services revenue grew 6.9% QoQ (8.1% CC; 4.6% organic) to USD2.6bn in Q2FY22, a tad ahead of our estimates. IT services EBITM declined 10bps QoQ to 17.7% as revenue momentum and operating efficiencies largely negated wage hikes and investments in sales, capabilities and talent.

■    Wipro guided for IT services revenue to be in the range of USD2,631-2,683mn in Q3, implying 2-4% QoQ growth. Management remains fairly confident of delivering double-digit organic revenue growth in FY22. It reiterated EBITM guidance of 17-17.5% for FY22.

■    Wipro signed 9 large deals with a combined TCV of USD580mn in Q2. Management indicated that 18% growth in deal TCV wins in H1 (ACV - 29%) and robust deal pipeline across markets with a good mix of small and large deals give good revenue visibility.

■    We raise FY22E/FY23E/FY24E EPS by 1.8%/3.4%/4.3%, factoring in Q2 performance and sustained growth momentum. We retain Hold with a revised TP of Rs680 at 25x Sep'23E EPS (earlier 23x).

Infosys Ltd Records Strong Margin Beat; Raises FY22 Revenue Growth Guidance

 BUY

CMP: Rs1709  |

Target Price: Rs1910

■    Infosys' Q2FY22 operating performance was ahead of expectations due to a margin beat. Revenues grew 5.7% QoQ (6.3% CC) to USD4bn, in line with estimates. Operating efficiencies and SG&A leverage restricted the EBITM decline to 10bps QoQ to 23.6%.

■    Infosys raised its FY22 revenue growth guidance to 16.5-17.5% CC (earlier 14-16%), implying a 1.5-2.5% CQGR over Q3-Q4, on the back of broad-based demand, solid deal intake and healthy deal pipeline. The company retained its EBITM guidance at 22-24%.

■    Large deal intake was healthy at USD2.2bn in Q2FY22 (37% new), with 22 large deals signed during the quarter. The deal pipeline remains healthy, with a good mix of new and renewal deals offering good revenue visibility.

■    We increase earnings estimates by 0.4%/0.6%/0.4% for FY22/FY23/FY24, factoring in Q2 performance. We maintain Buy with a TP of Rs1,910 at 28x Sep'23E EPS, considering strong earnings momentum and robust demand environment.

Mindtree Ltd Operating Performance Beats Expectations In Q2 Of FY22

 

SELL

CMP: Rs 4364  |  

Target Price: Rs3300

■    Q2FY22 operating performance beat our expectations. Revenue grew 12.8% QoQ to USD350.1mn (13.4% CC). EBITDAM expanded ~20bps QoQ to 20.5% on the back of revenue acceleration and operating efficiencies, which negated the salary hike impact.

■    The company is confident of delivering industry-leading double-digit revenue growth on the back of strong deal wins, healthy deal pipeline and broad-based revenue growth. MTCL remains confident of delivering 20%+ EBITDAM in FY22.

■    Deal wins remained healthy in Q2 at USD360mn, albeit moderated a bit from record USD504n in Q1. Management indicated that the deal intake remains well-balanced across annuity and transformational deals.

■    We raise our FY22E/23E/24E EPS by 7.5%/8.4%/7.9%, factoring in Q2 performance beat. We maintain Sell on the stock with a revised TP of Rs3,300 at 30x Sep'23E EPS (earlier Rs3,070), considering rich valuations and anticipated pressure on margins.

IT Services Leader Crayon Acquires An Australia-Based Cloud And Licensing Specialist - Rhipe

* Australia-based public company to be part of global expansion strategy

Crayon, a leader in IT services and innovation, today announced it has acquired rhipe, an Australia-based cloud and licensing specialist, to further Crayon’s global expansion strategy and services portfolio.

The acquisition comes via a Scheme of Arrangement, which became legally effective today after a due diligence and negotiation period. Upon implementation of the Scheme, Crayon will acquire all rhipe shares.

The acquisition reinforces Crayon’s customer-centric commitment to provide innovation and cost optimization solutions to drive new growth opportunities.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome rhipe to the Crayon family as part of our global expansion strategy,” said Crayon CEO Melissa Mulholland. “rhipe is a leading distributor of cloud solutions and services in the Asia Pacific region and through our combined business models, we will help more customers and partners solve their business needs with a greater portfolio of solutions.”

rhipe is a channel-focused, leading wholesale provider of subscription-based cloud licenses, infrastructure, and services. It was established in 2003 and serves more than 3,000 IT resellers. Implementation of the Scheme of Arrangement is expected to be complete on 3 November 2021. The purchase includes all of rhipe’s 600 employees and its activities across Asia Pacific, as well as the recently acquired Azure services business Parallo, which joined rhipe in September 2020 and emt Distribution, the cyber security software company acquired in April 2021.

“The shareholders of rhipe and the rhipe Board have both overwhelmingly concluded the Scheme represents an attractive outcome for our shareholders, partners, customers, and staff,” said rhipe Chairman Gary Cox. “rhipe’s partners and customers will benefit from the broader global service capability from a combined Crayon and rhipe. In addition, Crayon’s offer is positive news for rhipe’s staff, as we believe there will be increased career opportunities in a larger and more diverse, combined company.”

Crayon has been steadily growing in Australia. It opened its first offices in August 2019, and last year purchased Oracle specialist Navicle, and Winc’s software licensing operations.