- SBI has cut loan rates, including those on car loans. This could make other banks follow suit to keep themselves in contention with the consumer.
- If you're in the market for a petrol car, now is the time to make a purchase. Manufacturers are offering everything from cash discounts to gold coins and LED televisions to ensure that petrol variants and models keep selling. Manufacturers are also encouraging dealers by increasing margins on petrol vehicles.
- The negotiations for salaries at Maruti's Manesar plant have begun. The Maruti Suzuki Workers' Union has given the management a list of demands, which include things like a rise in basic salaries and linking of dearness allowance to basic pay.
- Audi has shown the facelifted Q5 at the Beijing Auto Show. There aren't any major changes to the Q5, but it sports new headlamps, a new grille and bumper. We will see the 3.2-litre petrol V6 replaced by the new 3.0-litre supercharged one. The hybrid version will debut in the US market. There will even be an sporty S variant slated for a June launch, to coincide with the 24 hours of Le Mans.
- Fiat is launching the Viaggio sedan in the Chinese market. The Viaggio is a sedan based on the Dodge Dart (itself based on an Alfa design) and it is slightly bigger than the Linea. It looks modern and we think it would make a nice addition to Fiat India's range - here's to hoping they make a right-hand drive version.
- Audi has showcased the A6 e-Tron concept at the Beijing Auto Show. The A6 e-Tron is a plug-in hybrid that runs primarily off its electric motors, with a four-cylinder petrol engine to help either acceleration or range when needed.
- Ford USA is undertaking an interesting project to use old money - literally, old paper money that is shredded in the USA - to use in the construction of its vehicles. It already uses soy beans, denim and plastic bottles in its products, instead of substances derived from petroleum.
- BMW has shown the i8 Spyder Concept at the Beijing Auto Show. Even accounting for the practicality that will be added to the concept, it will be one desirable yet fuel efficient car.
- Bentley is considering petrol/hybrid powertrains for its upcoming SUV, the EXP 9F. The existing engines in the Bentley range, the 6.0-litre W12 and the 4.0-litre V8 will be options for sure, but a plug-in hybrid V6 might also be under development. All powertrains promise the performance that Bentley is renowned for. However, will we ever see a diesel Bentley? If they can make one refined enough, we can just imagine it delivering the 'wave of torque' that Bentleys are so famous for...
The CarWale Daily Fuel is your quick daily dose of automotive news from India and around the world. If you want to know whatever's in the news but want it short and sweet, here's your solution.
