Apple to lay off 190 in self-driving car division

FILE PHOTO: The Apple Inc. store is seen on the day of the new iPhone 7 smartphone launch in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 16, 2016. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson/File Photo (Reuters) – Apple Inc said on Wednesday it plans to lay off 190 employees in its self-driving car program, Project Titan. Apple said in a filing… Continue reading Apple to lay off 190 in self-driving car division

Mahindra Launches the Stylish & Thrilling New XUV300

Mahindra Launches the Stylish & Thrilling New XUV300

Fully Loaded With Segment-First Safety & Technology Features

Mumbai, February 14, 2019: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a part of the US $20.7 billion Mahindra Group, today launched its highly-anticipated new SUV, the XUV300 (pronounced as XUV 3 double ‘Oh’) at an ex-showroom starting price of Rs. 7.90 lac for the Petrol W4 variant and Rs. 8.49 lac for the Diesel W4 variant (one price applicable across India).

The XUV300’s head-turning, cheetah-inspired design, ‘fun-to-drive’ performance, best-in-segment safety features, first-in-segment hi-tech features and class-defining interiors, make it an exciting & comprehensive package. It will be available in both petrol and diesel engine options.

The XUV300 comes in 3 variants W4, W6 and W8, and one optional pack on the W8 variant. It is available in 6 monotone colours & 2 dual tone colours: Red Rage, Aqua Marine, Sunburst Orange, Pearl White, Napoli Black, D-Sat Silver, Dual Tone White roof on Red Rage and Aqua Marine (only on W8 optional pack).

According to Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group “The XUV brand when launched in 2011 was an inflection moment in our automotive journey. Today, as we launch the XUV300, we take the aspirational levels higher. Based on the X100 platform of SsangYong, the XUV300 is a true blue global product which combines Korean technology with Indian innovation and finesse. The XUV300 would appeal to all, specially today’s millennial, who would cherish the vehicle's funto- drive nature.”

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, M&M Ltd. said “The XUV300 is our latest offering in the next generation of aspirational Mahindra vehicles, after the Marazzo and the Alturas G4. XUV300 represents a bold new direction for our automotive products, one that offers our customers unmatched quality and a truly refined user experience. The XUV300 is an all-new product that is built on a global platform that will delight customers.”

Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., mentioned, “The XUV300 is poised to emerge as a winner in the compact SUV segment with its unmatched safety features, impressive drivability & ride comfort, many segment-first hi-tech features, luxurious space to seat 5 people and best-in-segment fit and finish.”

ABOUT THE XUV300

The XUV300 is a potent combination of cheetah-inspired design and breath-taking performance. Armed with free-flowing torque and nimble-footed manoeuvrability, the sheer joy of driving this SUV kicks in the moment you step on the accelerator pedal. All this, and an arsenal of best-insegment safety and technology features, make it one of the most exciting SUVs you’ll find on Indian roads.

The XUV300 shares its platform with the SsangYong Tivoli which is a globally successful product that has sold over 2.6 lakh units in 50+ countries since its launch in 2015. The Tivoli has also received multiple safety and ergonomic awards including a Grade 1 safety award from the 2015 KNCAP (Korean New Car Assessment Program), automotive safety test.

EXHILARATING PERFORMANCE

Heart-stopping exhilaration comes in Petrol & Diesel turbo-charged powertrains that deliver bestin- segment torque. Whatever you choose, the XUV300 promises searing acceleration in an instant. Also, the 6-speed transmission efficiently utilises engine power and torque over a wide operating range, ensuring thrills throughout. That’s not all, the XUV300 offers the perfect balance of comfortable ride and confident handling for unbridled driving pleasure.

1.5L Turbo Diesel engine with electronic variable geometry charger: 85.8KW (115 BHP)power & 300 NM torque
1.2L Turbo Petrol engine: 81KW (110 BHP) power & 200 NM torque
6-speed transmission
First-in-segment Smart Steering System: 3 steering modes allow you to customise the steering effort to suit your driving requirements. With the Comfort mode, glide through city traffic with ease. Or, satiate your need for thrill and adrenaline rush with the Sport mode.

FORTRESS-LIKE SAFETY

The XUV300 offers Best-in-Segment safety features.

First-in-segment 7 airbags including a knee airbag, dual-front, side and curtain airbags
First-in-segment* disc brakes on all 4 wheels (*Among Sub 4 meter Compact SUVs).
First-in-segment front parking sensors
First-in-segment heated ORVMs
Electronic stability program with Dynamic Steering Torque, Hydraulic Brake Assist, Roll-over Mitigation and Traction Control. Together with Hill Start Assist.
ABS & EBD standard across all variants
Front & rear fog lamps
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Tyre-tronics (tyre pressure & temperature monitoring system)
Seat belt reminder for all seats
3-point seat belt on all seats

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

The XUV300 is home to an array of hi-tech features that take the driving experience to a whole new level. The XUV300 allows you to adjust the air temperature to create separate, customised environments for the driver and front passenger. With 3 memory slots for your preferred setting, you won't waste time prepping up for your joyride.

First-in-segment Dual-Zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control
17.78 cm (7”) Touchscreen Infotainment system with GPS navigation, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, ECOSENSE Technology with social media connectivity, Micro Hybrid system
Push Button Start/Stop
Rear Parking Camera with dynamic assist & 3 park assist modes
Steering-Mounted Phone & Audio Controls
Blue Sense APP with smart watch connectivity
Cruise control
Auto-dimming IRVM
Multi-colour configurable instrument cluster
Tyre position display

HEAD-TURNING, CHEETAH-INSPIRED DESIGN

With its aggressive front grille, chiselled body and imposing stance, the XUV300 always looks ready to charge. Its projector headlamps and striking LED Daytime Running Lamps leave a lasting impression. While its unique LED tail lamps create an indelible visual signature. Add to this the sporty, 43.18 cm Diamond Cut Alloys, and you have an SUV that meets every demand of the urban jungle, in style.

Stylish dual-tone colours (only on W8 optional pack)
Floating roof design
Striking led DRLs
Aggressive front grille
Unique LED taillamps
Sporty 43.18 cm diamond cut alloys
Classy dual-tone roof rails
Sturdy side cladding

INDULGENT CABIN

Ample space welcomes you inside the XUV300. Its spacious cabin, with Best-in-Segment width of 1,821mm, Longest-in-Segment wheelbase of 2,600mm and a flat floor can comfortably seat 3 passengers in the 2nd row. While the finely crafted, dual-tone dashboard and a sophisticated, electric sunroof with anti-pinch function, elevate the standard of luxury to new heights. Premium leatherette seats with well-designed bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a racing ready gear knob await you.

Electric sunroof with anti-pinch function
Premium grey leatherette upholstery
Leather-wrapped steering & gear knob
Dual-tone black & beige dashboard
Height-adjustable driver seat
60:40 2nd row split seat
Flat floor in 2nd row
Adjustable boot floor
Height-adjustable front seat belts
Thoughtful storage spaces: multi-purpose central console storage, illuminated glove box, bottle holders on all doors, cupholders in rear centre armrest

XUV300: SYNOPSIS OF KEY FEATURES

BEST-IN-SEGMENT SAFETY FEATURES:

First-in-segment 7 Airbags, All 4 disc brakes, Front Parking Sensors, Heated ORVMs
Electronic Stability Program with Roll Over Mitigation & Hill Start Assist
ABS & EBD Standard Across All Variants
Front & Rear Fog Lamps
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
Tyre-tronics (Tyre Pressure & Temperature Monitoring System)
Seat Belt Reminder For All Seats

BEST IN SEGMENT TORQUE:

Available in Petrol and Diesel engine options
Highest Torque in segment of 300 Nm for Diesel & 200 Nm for Petrol
Segment highest power of 115 BHP from Turbo-charged 1.5L Diesel engine
Comparative power of 110 BHP from Turbo-charged 1.2L Petrol engine
6-speed Transmission

FIRST IN SEGMENT HI-TECH FEATURES:

First-in-segment Dual-zone FATC, Heated ORVMs, Smart Steering System with Normal, Comfort & Sport Modes, ECOSENSE Technology, Micro Hybrid Technology
Electric Sunroof with Anti-Pinch function
17.78 cm Touchscreen Infotainment with GPS Navigation, Apple CarPlay & Android AutoTM
Push Button Start/Stop
Rear Parking Camera With Dynamic Assist
Power Foldable ORVMs with LED Turn Indicators
Steering Mounted Phone/ Audio Controls & Cruise Control
Blue Sense APP with Smart Watch Connectivity
Smart Rain & Light Sensors

CHEETAH-INSPIRED DESIGN:

Aggressive, Chrome Front Grille
Projector Headlamps with Striking LED DRLs & Stylish LED Tail lamps
Sporty 43.18 cm Diamond Cut Alloys
Floating roof design, Classy Dual-Tone Roof Rails & Sturdy Side Cladding

CLASS-DEFINING INTERIORS:

Widest in segment (1,821mm) with longest wheelbase of 2,600mm. Luxurious space for 3 passengers in the rear
Premium Leatherette Upholstery plus Leather-wrapped Steering/ Gear Knob
Chrome Inside Door Handles
Dual-Tone Black & Beige Dashboard
Height-Adjustable Driver Seat
60:40 2nd Row Split seat, Flat Floor In 2nd Row

Social Media Handles:

Please visit: https://mahindraxuv300.com/ for more details and images.

Facebook – @mahindraXUV300
Twitter – @MahindraXUV300
Instagram – @mahindraXUV300
Hashtags – #MahindraXUV300, #XUV300

About Mahindra

The Mahindra Group is a USD 19 billion federation of companies that enables people to rise through innovative mobility solutions, driving rural prosperity, enhancing urban living, nurturing new businesses and fostering communities. It has a leadership position in utility vehicles, information technology, financial services and vacation ownership in India and is the world’s largest tractor company, by volume. It also enjoys a strong presence in agribusiness, aerospace, commercial vehicles, components, defence, logistics, real estate, renewable energy, speedboats and steel, amongst other businesses. Headquartered in India, Mahindra employs over 2,40,000 people across 100 countries.

Learn more about Mah..

Volvo Cars introduces refreshed Volvo XC90 SUV

Volvo Cars introduces refreshed Volvo XC90 SUV   Volvo Cars has today unveiled a refreshed version of its best-selling XC90 large SUV, the company’s top-of-the-line flagship, adding a newly-developed fuel-saving engine option that marks the next step in the company’s ambitious electrification strategy.   The refreshed XC90 for the first time offers customers Volvo’s advanced… Continue reading Volvo Cars introduces refreshed Volvo XC90 SUV

UPDATE 3-Garmin shares surge 15 pct as new direction fuels strong forecast

(Reuters) – Garmin Ltd on Wednesday forecast full-year revenue and profit above expectations along with strong fourth-quarter results, sending its shares up 15 percent to their highest in more than a decade. A Garmin GPS watch is shown on a display at a store in Encinitas, California, U.S., October 30, 2017. REUTERS/Mike Blake The company bounced… Continue reading UPDATE 3-Garmin shares surge 15 pct as new direction fuels strong forecast

Bill Gates calls Tesla “an amazing product,” doesn’t see electric trucks working quite yet

Follow Bengt

Bill Gates
Electric cars may be seen by some as part of a seemingly unstoppable, powerful technological wave that will disrupt not just the auto industry but most other forms of transportation.

Don’t count on Bill Gates as one of those bright-eyed EV cheerleaders; on the other hand, don’t dismiss him as someone who doesn’t want to see transportation remade in a dramatically carbon-reduced form.

DON’T MISS: Iron Man 2 reunion: Musk friend Larry Ellison named to Tesla board

Gates, who was recently interviewed by tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, takes (as on many things) a pragmatic view with respect to how battery-electric tech will transform transportation. The Microsoft co-founder, turned humanitarian and philanthropist, called Tesla “an amazing product,” and noted that while it’s catching on it’s still a very small percentage of the market—and the loss of the $7,500 federal tax credit is making it tougher.

He sees other automakers getting more involved because of the California regulations that cover a significant portion of the U.S., and says that “there’ll be a lot of really great electric cars to choose from.”

The video didn’t feature Gates’ answer to Brownlee’s question about whether he had gone electric or not.

Freightliner eCascadia electric semi-truck

While electric power may soon catch on for cars, Gates prognosticates that trucks may be more of a reach: “Eventually batteries might work for a truck, but it’s a far more difficult problem because the weight is a lot higher there.”

CHECK OUT: Bill Gates Backs EcoMotors’ New OPOC Engine With $23.5 Million Investment

For the transportation sector as a whole, he pointed to the wide range of innovations we’re going to need. And he refers to an essential relationship that we often note here at Green Car Reports—that electric vehicles are only as clean as the energy source used to generate the electricity used to charge them.

The electricity grid remains dramatically different regionally in the U.S., but on a national basis, according to data updated by the Union of Concerned Scientists last year, the average electric car now produces the equivalent greenhouse-gas emissions to a gasoline vehicle that achieves 80 mpg. Further, 75 percent of Americans now live in areas where the average EV has lower carbon dioxide emissions than a gas car that gets 50 mpg—although in some regions the other “criteria emissions,” from coal plants in particular, continue to be an issue.

READ MORE: From Apple To Tesla: Woz Follows The Trend, Buys Model S

A report last year from Bloomberg New Energy Finance projected that 50 percent of new cars, worldwide, would be electric, and that renewable solar and wind will generate half of the world’s electricity by 2050—enabled by more affordable batteries and energy storage. BNEF anticipated that the share of renewable sources will be higher in China and India than in the U.S.

That won’t be enough to meet global climate targets. But with some help from big-picture innovators and problem-solvers like Gates, we might get a lot closer.

Berlin-based startup German Autolabs raises €7 million for Chris, its AI voice assistant for cars

Berlin-based deep tech startup German Autolabs recently created Chris, the world’s first voice AI enabled digital assistant for in-car usage. The startup has now announced a funding round of €7 million, led by new investors nbr Tech Ventures, VC Fonds Technologie Berlin, and coparion, along with existing investor Target Partners.

Chris, which was launched in the European market in late 2018, is a digital co-driver, and has already established the world’s largest fleet of connected and voice AI enabled devices in cars on the streets today. Chris enables drivers to safely operate their Android phones using voice and gestures while driving, including messaging, navigation, calls and music.

“Why is ‘Chris’ so important?”, asked the leading automotive industry analyst Roger C. Lanctot. “Because the A-Team (Amazon, Alphabet, Apple, Alibaba) has made it clear to automakers that they won’t be segregating or shielding vehicle-based digital assistant users from broader customer aggregation act..

Waymo Tops Self-Driving Car ‘Disengagement’ Stats As GM Cruise Gains And Tesla Is AWOL – Forbes

A Cruise self-driving car doing a test route in San Francisco in January 2019.Getty Images It’s tough to know for sure which companies really have the best self-driving car technology, though Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo and General Motors Cruise can point to the only public data available in the U.S. that compares dozens of programs testing… Continue reading Waymo Tops Self-Driving Car ‘Disengagement’ Stats As GM Cruise Gains And Tesla Is AWOL – Forbes

Driverless truck startup TuSimple raises $95 million at $1 billion valuation – VentureBeat

There’s a healthy demand for driverless trucks. It’s an industry predicted to reach 6,700 units globally, totaling $54.23 billion this year, and one that stands to save the logistics and shipping industry $70 billion annually while boosting productivity by 30 percent. Besides cost savings, the growth is driven in part by a shortage of human drivers. In 2018,… Continue reading Driverless truck startup TuSimple raises $95 million at $1 billion valuation – VentureBeat

Apple ramped up testing of self-driving cars in 2018 – U.S. data

FILE PHOTO: An Apple company logo is seen behind tree branches outside an Apple store in Beijing, China December 14, 2018. REUTERS/Jason Lee/File Photo SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) – Apple Inc sharply increased its testing of self-driving cars in 2018, logging tens of thousands of miles compared with only hundreds of miles the year before, according… Continue reading Apple ramped up testing of self-driving cars in 2018 – U.S. data

Why Ford Hired a Furniture Maker as CEO – The Atlantic

Todd St. John If, as Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “an institution is the lengthened shadow of one man,” the story of the American economy can be told by the types of people who run its corporations. The early days of mass production belonged to mechanically minded men such as Henry Ford. The creation of mass… Continue reading Why Ford Hired a Furniture Maker as CEO – The Atlantic