FalconX Launches "Global Immersion Program Cohort 2"

FalconX, a US-based accelerator and gateway for international startups announced the launch of "Global Immersion Program Cohort 2". This program is designed to help Indian entrepreneurs grow and scale their companies in the US with the help of industry experts and corporate partners in Silicon Valley. The program includes an Entrepreneurial MasterClass, sessions on topics such as go to-market strategy, sales, pricing, and fundraising, and one-on-one mentorship from over 40 industry leaders. The program culminates with a Technology Day where selected startups have the opportunity to pitch their startup to an audience of over 150 industry experts and venture capitalists.

FalconX also announced the launch of its first venture fund in 2023, with a focus on global early-stage B2B companies in the AI/ML, AR/VR, cleantech, Healthtech, and cloud infrastructure sectors. The fund will invest towards the scale and growth of the startups mentored through the FalconX Gateway including those graduating from its well-regarded Global Immersion Program. The initial fund of $20 million will be managed by Murali Chirala and Vivek Vipul as General Partners.

Speaking on the launch of "Global Immersion Program Cohort 2" B.V. Jagadeesh Co-founders of Falconx and Managing Partner of Kaaj Ventures-FalconX, said, "Entrepreneurship will play a crucial role in propelling India to the top of the global economic rankings by 2047.  Innovation and technology will be critical to achieving this goal, and FalconX will play a vital role in shaping their success.”

Speaking on the Occasion Murali Chirala, CEO FalconX said “India is the single most promising geography globally for technological innovation moving forward”.

With a team of veteran technology entrepreneurs and angel investors at the helm, FalconX has quickly established itself as a respected accelerator for technology startups. The company's founders BV Jagadeesh, Murali Chirala, Raju Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Pradeep Aswani, Praveen Akkiraju, Krishna Yarlagadda, Anurag Jain, Raju Indukuri, and JP Vejendla, provide mentorship and support to the startups they invest in, dramatically increasing their chances of success.

Honeywell And Nexceris Strengthen Partnership To Help Safety In EVs

* Honeywell battery sensors and gas detection monitoring portfolio and manufacturing expertise combined with Li-Ion Tamer gas detection solutions will address electric vehicle thermal runaway, one of the primary risks which can cause vehicle failure and fires

Honeywell (Nasdaq: HON) announced today it is expanding its strategic alliance with Nexceris, developer of Li-ion Tamer® lithium-ion gas detection solutions, to help make electric vehicles (EVs) safer. Honeywell and Nexceris will offer advanced automotive sensing technology to help prevent conditions leading to thermal runaway in EV batteries, a phenomenon that causes extremely high temperatures within the battery cell and can result in a fire.

Global sales of EVs doubled in 2021 from the previous year to nearly 7 million[1], and India’s electric vehicle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 90% in this decade to touch $150 billion by 2030.[2] Many of these vehicles today use lithium-ion batteries as an energy source, which can pose safety risks that can impact EV owners. To help mitigate these risks, automobile manufacturers are looking to incorporate technology to provide enhanced safety. Honeywell offers a wide range of lithium-ion battery safety and performance solutions, including sensors used in battery management systems to monitor the health of EV batteries, gas detection solutions used throughout the manufacturing process and electrical safety personal protective equipment, providing protection to workers and allowing them to operate safely in hazardous conditions.

Rajesh Rege, president, Honeywell India, mentioned, “As more people switch to electric vehicles, automakers need to supply lithium-ion batteries that are reliable, safe and secure at every point of their lifespan. EV sales are likely to increase exponentially 'in the coming months and years' due to the demand incentives provided under FAME II, the launch of state policies, rising fuel prices, tightening emissions laws and increasing awareness of the green environment. Honeywell is assisting this transition to more EVs on the road by providing ready-now solutions to help reduce safety concerns. Honeywell’s collaboration with Nexceris to develop an enhanced suite of battery monitoring sensors will help automotive manufacturers strengthen their battery health monitoring systems with the ability to detect thermal runaway conditions even earlier,” he added.

The companies will collaborate with leading global vehicle manufacturers to deliver advanced gas detection solutions in EV battery packs to allow for early intervention, helping avoid costly property damage and safety issues.

“Our work with Honeywell will help us empower the global transition to electric vehicles through enhanced battery monitoring,” said Kyle Shen, president and CEO, Nexceris. “Fires from lithium-ion batteries are dangerous and often difficult to contain after they start. By combining our shared expertise in battery sensing and gas detection technology with Honeywell’s extensive manufacturing capabilities, we will be working toward offering our vehicle manufacturing customers a more advanced safety solution and meeting the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries.”

In 2020, Honeywell and Nexceris formed its strategic alliance to address lithium-ion battery system safety for energy storage applications, combining Honeywell’s very early warning smoke detection and Li-ion Tamer’s leading off-gas detection technology for a safe, redundant way to protect facilities of any scale.  

The Li-ion Tamer (https://liiontamer.com/) products were developed by Nexceris. Nexceris is an energy innovation company dedicated to the clean energy transition. Founded in 1994, Nexceris’ vision is to create a better world through clean energy innovations. The company collaborates with global customers and partners to transform powerful ideas to make energy production safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible. Learn more at nexceris.com.

Honeywell Safety and Productivity Solutions (SPS) provides products, software and connected solutions that improve productivity, workplace safety and asset performance for our customers across the globe. We deliver on this promise through industry-leading mobile devices, software, cloud technology and automation solutions, the broadest range of personal protective equipment and gas detection technology, and custom-engineered sensors, switches and controls. For more information, please visit: sps.honeywell.com.

Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) delivers industry-specific solutions that include aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings and industry; and performance materials globally. Our technologies help aircraft, buildings, manufacturing plants, supply chains, and workers become more connected to make our world smarter, safer, and more sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

Household Brand SYSKA Launches BEE Compliant 5 Star Rating ORB-Pro And Galaxia-Pro Smart Fans

·         These smart fans can be controlled through app and voice-assistants

·         Energy saving of up to 50% through these advanced products

Syska Group, the leading FMEG brand in India today announced the launch of ORB-Pro SFD4500 and Galaxia-Pro SFD5500 smart fans. The introduction of Syska smart fans has been propelled in its true style of bringing forth innovation and aesthetics while offering economic feasibility. These BLDC fans come with energy-saving technology that can cut electricity consumption by up to 50%.

BG Syska Galaxia CMF 3 Fans_Pearky grey

With the goal of reaching every household, Syska has been on a growth trajectory by expanding its product line in the fans segment. The collection of fans by Syska has been conceptualised and developed to serve the needs and preferences of consumers while being environment friendly. While both the fans offer air delivery of 220cmm and blade sweep of 1200mm, the ORB-Pro smart fan utilises 30 Watt for Fan and around 5w for Lighting operation, whereas Galaxia-Pro smart fan consumes 30 Watt.

Final 3 Syska Orb CMF-03 Sattin gold

Commenting on the launch of both these fan models, Mr. Rajesh Uttamchandani, Director, Syska Group said, “There is an opportunity for business growth in the fans category and we at Syska are committed towards energy conservation by delivering innovative products for our consumers that are light years ahead of their time. These fans are designed to be modern and technologically advanced and are guaranteed to provide unmatched performance. These appliances come with features that deliver on Syska’s promise of innovation.”

Key features of Syska ORB-Pro and Galaxia-Pro smart fans:

·         Noiseless and powerful motor– The fans come with advanced noiseless and powerful BLDC motor that provide superior air circulation

·         Dust resistance- The fans have been provided with aluminium blade with 3 coats of painting and having corrosion free and dust resistance finishing. 

·         Silent Performance- The fan blades are also carefully crafted to give silent performance at higher speed levels.

·         Superior metallic finish- Designed for the modern look with metallic finish of trims and blades so that these smart fans have a premium look.

·         IoT Enabled- These smart fans are compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa and Syska Smart Home App.

In line with the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, these fans are manufactured indigenously. Customers can purchase these products from the leading retail stores. The ORB-Pro smart fan is available in Satin Gold, Pearl White and Himalayan Grey whereas, the Galaxia-Pro smart fan is available in Majestic Copper, Pearly Glow and Perky Grey. Both of these Pro series models have BEE compliance with 5 Star rating and having the service value of more than 6 m3/Min/W.

The Galaxia-Pro smart fan can be purchased at Rs. 8,999/- and ORB-Pro smart fan with in-built light feature can be purchased at Rs. 9,999/-.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Commences Bookings For The Iconic Hilux

* With its powerful performance and unmatched toughness, the Hilux is a testament to Toyota’s world-class engineering and exceptional on & off-road prowess

* Powered by 2.8 L Four Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Engine & is available in 6-Speed Automatic and Manual Transmission options

* Top safety features such as 7 SRS Airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TC) Electronic Systems to keep vehicle control under adverse weather & road conditions

* All variants equipped with 4X4 drive capabilities along with many first-in-segment features such as Drive modes options (Power & Eco), Tire Angle Monitor & Front Parking Sensors for a smooth drive

* Utmost passenger comfort on the interiors with Leather Seats, Dual Zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control, Smart Entry & Auto Head Lamps

* Eight-inch infotainment table style screen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay provides entertainment and seamless connectivity technology

* Aiding customer convenience, bookings can be placed both online (www.toyotabharat.com) as well as at the nearest Toyota dealership 

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the opening of bookings for its iconic lifestyle utility vehicle - The Hilux. Needless to mention, since its launch in early 2022, the Hilux has received overwhelming customer response, appreciated for its great styling, and driving comfort.

Owing to Hilux’s high demand and various factors impacting the supply, the bookings for legendary Hilux was temporarily halted. However, with today’s announcement, the order taking for the much-celebrated global legend have commenced at the dealer outlets as well as on-line bookings are accepted.

Globally, the Hilux sales have surpassed 20 million units winning hearts of many discerning customers from over 180 countries. Through more than five decades and eight generations, the Toyota Hilux has created extraordinary experiences and an unbreakable bond with those who desire awesome drives, whether they are on business or with their families.

Hilux’s global reputation as a powerful performer is attributed to its rigid Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform. It is the same platform (body-on frame chassis construction) that underpins the Fortuner which has been a runaway success in India and across many countries.

Toyota Hilux is aimed to fulfil the needs of customers seeking an awesome lifestyle utility vehicle that is best suited, not only for off-roading adventure drives on tough terrains, but also for everyday city use. Furthermore, this versatile machine, is perfectly suited for multiple purpose usages that can cater to new emerging business customers be it campervan, farming, defense, mining, construction, rescue van, etc.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Atul Sood, Vice President of Sales and Strategic Marketing – Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “It gives us immense pleasure to announce that we have begun the bookings for Hilux – an iconic vehicle which has been accepted by generations world over. Our desire is to excite our customers with lifetime experiences to fulfil their aspiring needs by providing greater mobility choices. We are confident that the globally celebrated Hilux will continue to set new standards of unmatched toughness & awesomeness in India market to suit varied lifestyle utility requirements be it personal or business.

We at Toyota truly understand that for who owns Hilux, the purpose of life is to do more than the normal, to be able to go on adventures, to be able to make memories and to utilise every opportunity and go forth. It is as much function as it is form. It is as much utility as it is exploration to lead a complete life, full of memories. With our flagship model Hilux, we aim to call on our valued customers to do everything they wish to, to Live a Fuller Life.

As a brand that continually evaluates market trends and evolving preferences, we recognize the increasing aspiration for a rugged, sturdy lifestyle utility vehicle and the Hilux ticks all the right boxes. Being a fine example of world-class engineering with unparalleled safety, and best-in-class comfort, Hilux is perfectly channelled to aid seamless mobility in difficult road conditions. We strongly believe that our patrons will carry on the legacy of this vehicle on Indian terrains, for many years to come.”

The Hilux with its powerful powertrain system of 2.8 L Four Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Engine, is available in option of 6- Speed Automatic and 6-Speed Manual Transmission. All the variants of Hilux are equipped with 4X4 drive capabilities along with many first-in-segment features such as Drive modes options (Power & Eco), Tire Angle Monitor & Front Parking Sensors for a smooth drive. In addition to a variety of remarkable features coupled with a robust engine, the Hilux also offers exceptional endurance, low maintenance cost, and great practicality for a variety of usage purposes. Furthermore, the Hilux's water wading capability of 700mm makes it suitable for driving through Indian trails, setting new standards in its off-road capability.

Further, to supplement the amazing experience of Hilux, we are much excited to offer the specialised range of accessories for adventure-oriented customers’, truly reflective of the design concept. These range of recommended accessories will amplify the versatility of the Hilux. To know more about such accessories, we urge the customers to visit and explore at their nearest Toyota touchpoints.

Bookings for the Toyota Hilux opened today. Customers can make their bookings online on www.toyotabharat.com or also visit their nearest Toyota dealership. With Toyota’s virtual showroom, now the customers can seamlessly get a 360-degree external and internal views, check out all the available variants and colours and experience the key features as well.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Inaugurates Vedanta Supported State-Of-The-Art Medical Center At Hubli

* Vedanta’s Iron Ore Karnataka (IOK) joins hands with Lions Club of Hubli and Hubli Maternity & Child Welfare Association to construct a new medical center in the city

* The medical center will cater to the local population with a focus on providing quality healthcare services for the communities around  

Hon’ble Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines, Shri Pralhad Joshi and Hon’ble MLA, Shri. Jagdish Shettar, inaugurated a state-of-the-art Medical Center in Hubli, constructed by Vedanta Sesa Goa in association with Lions Club of Hubli and The Hubli Maternity & Child Welfare Association in the distinguished presence of   Shri. Navin Jaju, CEO - Sesa Goa, Vedanta Limited, Shri. M Krishna Reddy, COO – Iron Ore Mining, Vedanta Limited, Hon’ble MLC, Shri. Pradeep Shettar, Hon’ble Mayor, Shri. Iresh Anchatgeri and other dignitaries of Hubli District Administration and Lions Club Hubli.

The medical center is setup to provide quality healthcare facilities for the communities around and to host periodic medical camps on Eye, Diabetes, Childcare, Bone density, Women’s health, as well as seminars and awareness session on public health, etc., to benefit the people from surrounding villages of Hubli.

The Newly constructed medical center is fully equipped with all the requisite modern facilities and infrastructure amenities including consultation rooms, waiting lounge for patients, seminar hall, medical camp facilities, Pathology center, an RO water unit for safe drinking water supply, spacious dining hall for serving free meals, a Jan Aushadi medical shop and other healthcare facilities.

On the inauguration, Hon’ble Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal & Mines of India, Shri. Pralhad Joshi said, "Healthcare and Upskilling are very critical for the progress of India. Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, we have taken up many initiatives to realize the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. I convey my heartfelt gratitude to Shri Anil Agarwal Ji and the members of Vedanta company for partnering with us, in this journey of nation building through Nand Ghar and other CSR initiatives like this."

Hon’ble MLA, Shri. Jagdish Shettar said, "India is witnessing the Golden Era of growth under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and it is very heartening to see multiple community development initiatives being undertaken in Hubli. I appreciate the efforts of Lions Club Hubli and Vedanta for ensuring access to quality primary healthcare care to the local communities."

Addressing the gathering, Shri. Navin Jaju, CEO – Vedanta Sesa Goa said, “Health is one of the major thrust areas of Vedanta’s community development programs and this initiative is a step ahead in our endeavor towards ‘Transforming the Communities’ by creating quality healthcare infrastructure for them. I thank Shri. Pralhad Joshi Ji Hon’ble union Minister and Govt. of Karnataka for their wholehearted support in driving our community development programs. I also extend my sincere gratitude to the Lions Club of Hubli and The Hubli Maternity & Child Welfare Association for this fruitful association with us for development of this medical centre infrastructure” 

Under the aegis of Anil Agarwal Foundation, Vedanta Iron Ore Karnataka has been implementing various structured CSR initiatives such as ‘SEVA Donation Drive’, ‘Sesa Sustainability Drive’, ‘Sesa Students’ Talent Hunt’, Alternative Livelihoods Opportunities Project (ALOP) and many more for the holistic development of communities.

BITS Pilani Announces The Largest Alumni Donation In Its History

* Rakesh Kapoor gifts a state-of-the-art centre of innovation to BITS Pilani

BITS Pilani today announced that it has received the largest gift in its history— a $1.2 million (Rs. 10 Crore) commitment from Rakesh Kapoor, one of the institute’s prominent alumnus. The gift will be used to fund the creation of a state-of-the-art Centre of Innovation. Designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, the 40,000 sq.ft. facility will include innovation labs in technology & hardware and co-working spaces. The innovation centre will also be home to the Pilani Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS), the business incubator of BITS.

The Centre of Innovation will be named ‘The Kapoor Centre of Innovation’ in recognition of Mr Kapoor’s generosity and his belief in the institution’s mission and promise. 

The announcement comes on the back of the recently announced “BITS innovation and start-up policy of 2022”, which allows both student and faculty to take up to a year off to start their own ventures. 

Prof.  Souvik Bhattacharyya, Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani, said, “ BITS has, in its own way, contributed significantly to India’s heritage of entrepreneurship. From a small technical school at one time, it is today among the nation’s foremost ‘entrepreneur factories’. This generous act of philanthropy by Mr. Rakesh Kapoor will undoubtedly have a lasting impact, as it aligns with one of the top institutional priorities and reinforces the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that BITS has championed for several decades. I am confident that this centre will serve as a catalyst for the next generation of innovators, shaping the future with their ground-breaking ideas and solutions.”

Mr. Rakesh Kapoor (BITS Pilani, 1975-80) said: “Innovation and Entrepreneurship are the lifeblood of economic and societal progress. I feel privileged to be able to further the already strong entrepreneurial ecosystem at BITS. My hope is that this gift will foster the talent of young engineers and scientists to create innovative products, solutions and services that benefit our planet and our people. The depth and rigour of a BITS education combined with the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that pervades campus life, I truly believe the possibilities for the coming generations are limitless.”

Mr Rakesh Kapoor was the Global CEO of Reckitt Benckiser from 2011-2019. Mr Kapoor is widely recognised as one of the foremost Global CEOs in the Consumer Goods industry. During his tenure, he transformed the company from a household cleaning company to one of the largest Health and Hygiene companies. The company delivered annualised total shareholder returns of around 12.5% (in GBP), placing him in the top decile of Consumer Goods CEOs.

About BITS Pilani:

BITS Pilani is an institution of eminence that offers programs in science, technology, and management from its 5 campuses – Pilani, Dubai, Goa, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. In 2021, it launched BITS School of Management (BITSoM), a new-age global business school. It also offers program to working professionals in more than 100 companies through its Work Integrated Learning Programs.

This Is Forwardism. The All-New BMW 7 And The First-Ever BMW i7 Now In Indian Market

* New BMW flagship design showcasing presence, progressiveness and emotion.

* Expressive front: Split headlights with BMW Crystal Headlights and BMW ‘Iconic Glow’ Kidney Grille.

* Modern cockpit with illuminated BMW Interaction Bar and Widescreen Curved Display.

* Rear-seat cinema: Executive Lounge Seating and fold-down 31.3" 8K Resolution BMW Theatre Screen with Amazon Fire TV.

* #ThisisForwardism #BMW7 #BMWi7 #BMWIndia #SheerDrivingPleasure

The seventh generation all-new BMW 7 Series has been launched in India along with the first-ever BMW i7. With this, the BMW flagship will be available in petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. The BMW 740i M Sport is locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai while the all-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 is available as a completely built-up unit (CBU). Diesel variant will be introduced later. The cars can be booked at BMW India dealerships. Deliveries will commence from March 2023.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The seventh generation of the BMW 7 Series marks a turning point. It is a symbol of ‘Forwardism’ that continuously challenges the ordinary, a unique quality distinguishing those who shape what’s next. But one thing hasn’t changed - it is still the measure for all things luxury. The all-new 7 is the face of the new luxury class design language which stuns through its presence, progressiveness and emotion. The 7 once again reaffirms its status as an innovation leader and a pioneer of trailblazing digital experience. It is a statement, a piece of art – ensuring lasting fascination tomorrow and beyond.”

Commenting on the launch of the first-ever BMW i7, Mr. Pawah added, “The first-ever BMW i7 is a true all-electric luxury sedan that clearly demonstrates how an exclusive driving experience can be combined with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. The i7 offers all-electric innovation, visionary design, and powerful driving dynamics so that you can make a striking impression everywhere you go. Built for the luminaries with next-level style and substance, it is undeniably alluring from the inside out.”

The cars are available at an ex-showroom price of -

The all-new BMW 740i M Sport              -           INR  1,70,00,000

The first-ever BMW i7 xDrive60              -           INR  1,95,00,000

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

The car is available in following paintworks – Oxide Grey, Mineral White, Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, Brooklyn Grey BMW Individual Tanzanite Blue and BMW Individual Dravit Grey. For the first time, customers can also choose the optionally available dual tone paintworks. Black Sapphire roof paintwork is available with Oxide Grey, Aventurine Red, Tanzanite Blue or Dravit Grey exterior. Oxide Grey roof paintwork is available with Black Sapphire, Aventurine Red, Tanzanite Blue or Dravit Grey exterior.

BMW Individual Leather ‘Merino’ upholstery comes in Amarone, Tartufo, Mocha, Black and Smoke White. BMW Individual leather ‘Merino’ with exclusive contents is optionally available, including Leather Merino - Cashmere Wool combination.

The new BMW 7 Series features a host of innovations such as BMW Kidney Grille with Iconic Glow, BMW Crystal Headlights with Iconic Glow, automatic doors, BMW Curved Display, BMW Interaction Bar, BMW Theatre Screen, Executive Lounge Seating, Smartphone-style touchscreen control panels in the rear doors.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. It includes BMW ID, MyBMW App, Digital Key Plus, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information, Remote Services, smartphone parking and Amazon Fire TV.

The car comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometers. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation. The high-voltage battery in BMW i7 is covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometers.

BMW India Financial Services offers a complete package for loan, insurance and vehicle services. Benefits include flexible and customized ownership plans like BMW 360° Ultimate which give assured buyback value up to 5 years. Customers will also enjoy attractive offers to trade-in / upgrade to a new BMW.

The all-new BMW 7 and first-ever BMW i7 make a visual statement by taking a considerable leap forward in terms of design and dimensions. They represent the new face of BMW luxury class. The headlights are divided into two parts. At the top are the daytime running lights, complete with the BMW Crystal Headlights. Their sparkling Swarovski crystals reflect ambient light in a multi-faceted way even when not illuminated, resulting in an impressive shimmering effect. Underneath are the LED headlights for high beam and low beam. Another distinguished feature is the strikingly illuminated BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille surround that lends an unmistakeable appearance. The all-new BMW 7 Series exceeds the length of its predecessor by 131mm (5,391 mm), a key factor adding to its majestic comfort.

The first-ever BMW i7 additionally offers the comfort-enhancing feature of automatic door opening and closing via just a touch on the door handles, the buttons in the BMW Interaction Bar or the rear door trim or the car key.

In the interior, the innovative BMW Interaction Bar defines the revolutionary cockpit design. This backlit bar looks like a piece of crystal jewellery where air vents are integrated almost invisibly. Using this touch-enabled bar, passengers can also adjust ambient lighting, air conditioning as well as its appearance. The freestanding BMW Curved Display adds even more high-tech appeal.

Unique and innovative features in the rear take comfort to a new level. A key feature here is Rear Seat Entertainment Experience with BMW Theatre Screen. The 31.3-inch touch screen with 8K resolution extends down from the ceiling to turn the car into a mobile home cinema as the windows blinds and panorama glass roof automatically close. BMW is the first manufacturer to integrate Amazon Fire TV (with highspeed data links) enabling comprehensive entertainment for the perfect travel experience. Equally extraordinary is the panoramic glass roof sky lounge, which is around 40 per cent larger than the predecessor. The Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System provides an exceptional audio experience at concert hall level. Another highlight is the 5.5-inch smartphone-style touchscreen control panels in the rear doors.

The Executive Lounge Seating behind the front passenger reclines to 42.5 degrees, offering a true first-class experience thanks to multifunction seats, massage function, active seat ventilation and rear console. The sophisticated yet modern look is complemented by newly developed upholstery and high-end materials such as the BMW Individual Merino leather/wool-cashmere optionally available in BMW i7.

My Modes can be used to turn every journey into an individual experience by combining sound, light, temperature, suspension settings and seat functions to create a particular mood. Other than Personal Mode, Sport Mode and Efficient mode, the new BMW 7 Series is offered with multiple new modes: My Mode Relax, My Mode Theatre and My Mode Expressive.

My Mode Relax combines calm images in the Control Display, seat massage and a gentle soundscape to encourage occupants to unwind. In addition, drivers can black out the window areas and the panoramic glass roof. In My Mode Theatre, the BMW Theatre Screen folds down, the interior is dimmed, and the seat moved into a comfortable viewing position. My Mode Expressive accentuates the driving experience with lively colours and patterns as well as BMW IconicSounds Electric.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. It includes BMW ID, MyBMW App, Digital Key Plus, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information, Remote Services, smartphone parking and Amazon Fire TV.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding BMW Curved Display with Navigation with real-time traffic information and augmented view. It includes a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 14.9-inch Control Display and BMW Head-up Display.

The latest BMW iDrive with Operating System 8 offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch, gesture or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Wireless smartphone integration and regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

My BMW app functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times as well as Learning Navigation which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on the owner’s driving habits. In addition, a Near-field communication (NFC) card can be activated as a vehicle key, customers can also use My BMW app to turn a smartphone and a smartwatch into a digital key. It enables customers to automatically open, close and start the vehicle. Customer can also share the digital key with up to 5 users.

The spread of Driver Assistance Systems is more extensive. They support the driver and also increase comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes functions like Cruise Control, Attentiveness Assistant, Parking Assistant Professional with remote parking via smartphone and Reversing Assistant. Driving Asssitant Professional on BMW i7 further adds active cruise control with Stop&Go function, along with Steering and Lane Control Assistant.

The BMW 7 Series also delivers a new level of dynamic performance. It is larger than its predecessor, but still offers the typical BMW sportiness and agility due to combined intelligent connectivity of all control systems. Integral Active Steering available on BMW i7 makes even lighter work of manoeuvring with the rear wheel steering, increases agility at moderate speeds and enhances poise and assurance when changing lanes and cornering at high speeds.

The BMW flagship is offered in petrol 740i M Sport and the all-electric BMW i7. Diesel will be offered later.

Thanks to the unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol engine of the BMW 740i M Sport melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder engine produces an output of 381 hp and a maximum torque of 520 Nm at 1,850 – 5,000 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 km / hr in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 250 Km/hr. The eight-speed Steptronic 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.

Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology in the BMW i7 xDrive60 features a highly integrated drive unit within a single housing that is powered by an electric motor, single-speed transmission and power electronics. The car instantly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 240 km/hr. It produces an output of 544 hp and a maximum torque of 745 Nm. The extremely slim (110 mm) and high-voltage lithium-ion recyclable battery integrated in the floor has a net capacity of 101.7 kWh providing a range of up to 625 kms (WLTP).

The car ensures fast and hassle-free charging. Charging time is:

195 kW DC Charger: 10%-80% in 34 min (170 kms added range in 10 min*)

22 kW AC Charger: 0%-100% in about 5 hrs

11 kW AC Charger: 0%-100% in about 10.5 hrs

The BMW i7 comes with a complimentary BMW Wallbox charger with installation. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 22kW.

BMW Group India has one of the best charging networks in luxury segment with fast chargers at BMW dealer network in 32 cities across India. BMW dealer network across India welcomes owners of electric vehicles of all brands for fast and convenient charging at nominal rates.

Sustainability is in the DNA of BMW long before Sheer Driving Pleasure begins. BMW principle of Circular Economy - ‘RE:THINK, RE:DUCE, RE:USE, RE:CYCLE’ cuts down use of primary raw materials and increases secondary materials. Reduction of carbon footprint is achieved throughout the value chain and all stages of lifecycle by making comprehensive use of natural and recyclable materials and production with 100% green electricity.

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

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.

Photocaption: (From Right) Mr. Jean-Philippe Parain, Senior Vice President, Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, BMW Group and Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India at the launch of the all-new BMW 7 Series and the first-ever fully electric BMW i7.