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Category: Economy

  • New Renault Duster Revealed: With New Updated Platform, Interiors And Off-road gear | Auto News

    Renault has revealed the brand-new Duster SUV. It was previously shown as a Dacia last year. Now the Renault version has made some small changes in how it looks, as you can see in these pictures released by Renault. 

    New Renault Duster has made some changes you might notice in this new Renault Duster. The front part has the word “Renault” written on it instead of the usual logo. This is like how the Dacia version looks. The company also changed all the Dacia logos on the SUV to say “Renault” instead. Inside the car, the seat and other parts have small differences in how they look.


    Renault Duster: platform, dimensions, design

    The new Duster is built on a sturdy platform and still looks tough. It’s a bit longer than the old model, measuring 4.34 meters, and has a fiercer appearance. They will also make a version with seven seats, like the Dacia Bigster concept, but it will come out later. The Renault Dusters Wheelbase is a little bit shorter than before, at 2,657mm. 

    Similar to the Dacia, the Duster features a slender Y- shape LED daytime light, vertical bumper air vents with round fog lights, and a lower grille resembling a flattened bull bar. The Vehicle is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels sporting a straightforward design, and the rear is adorned with a Y-shaped tail-light and bumper design reminiscent of the Dacia Duster.

    Renault Duster: Interior highlights

    The dashboard has two layers and looks similar but the Renault version has its own style of finishing and seat covers. The middle section is titled towards the driver, and the top model comes with Two digital Displays- one is 7.0 Inch for showing the driver’s information and the other is a 10.1-inch touchscreen for entertainment. Although the Dacia and Renault Duster have screens of the same size, they use different styles and colors for their display menus.

    Both Duster SUVs share features like wireless charging, wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple car play, automated air conditioning, and six-speaker Arkamys with a 3d sound system. 
    They also have advanced safety features like automatic braking in emergencies; detection for vehicles, people on foot, cycle, and motorbikes; alerts for traffic signs and speeding; help with parking at the back; warnings and assistance for changing lanes, and more.

    Renault Duster: Powertrain 

    There’s no update yet on the engine types for the Duster, but it’s likely to have the same three engine choices as its Dacia counterpart, with two being hybrid options. The first is a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid engine with two electric motors and an automatic transmission. It includes a 1.2kWh battery that can power the car using only electricity for most city driving. The second engine is a 130hp, 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V starter motor. Additionally, there will be a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG engine available in some places, but there won’t be a diesel version available.

    Renault Duster: off-road gear

    The Duster has different driving modes like Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-road, and Eco. This SUV sits 217 mm above the ground and can tilt forward at 31 degrees and backward at 36 degrees without hitting the ground.

  • New BMW 7 Series Protection Unveiled in India: Check Full Details | Auto News

    BMW Group recently introduced the latest BMW 7 Series Protection in India. This Vehicle is exclusively available from today onwards with a petrol engine and as a completely built-up unit (CBU).  Notably, the new BMW 7 Series Protection is designed for people with a special need for protection. Let’s delve into the details of this extraordinary Vehicle.

     New BMW 7 Series Protection 

    As claimed by the Company, the BMW 7 Series Protection comes with a very high level of protection against ballistic attacks and explosions. It offers customised protection from firearm or explosive attacks, catering to at-risk individuals. It has been classified as providing class VR9 protection, meeting stringent international standards for ballistic and blast resistance. Notably, its glass shields against high-calibre ammunition, ensuring utmost safety.


    Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, of BMW Group India, remarked,  “For over 45 years, BMW has set the standard in design and development of armoured vehicles. The new BMW 7 Series Protection succeeds in blending an unrivalled protection concept with outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, exceptionally advanced equipment features and the class-beating dynamic prowess for which the brand is renowned. This is a new kind of protection vehicle that meets the highest standards of ballistic protection and individual requirements. Even though this is a protection vehicle, you will immediately forget about this fact the moment you sit inside and experience its exceptional luxury.” 

    BMW 7 Series Protection Exterior 

    The core structure of the BMW 7 Series Protection is based on the unique protection architecture called the Protection Core.This heavily armoured inner core surrounds the entire passenger compartment and invisibly provides unprecedented protection for its occupants. It forms a self-supporting protective cell, which is then combined with protectionspec doors, armouring for the underbody and safety glass. 

    The visual highlight on the exterior is the contour line lighting impressively showcasing the BMW Kidney ‘Iconic Glow’, whether at a standstill or while driving. When deactivated, the technology is not visible. The headlights are divided into two parts. At the top are the daytime running lights, complete with the BMW Crystal Headlights. 


    Underneath are the LED headlights for high beam and low beam. With BMW Effortless Door, the car provides motorised assistance for opening and closing the doors. The new BMW 7 Series Protection is fitted with 20-inch light-alloy wheels as standard. The PAX tyres have a run-flat ring positioned on the wheel rim which allows the car to continue its journey at up to 80 km/h even in the event of a total loss of pressure. Optionally, the cars can be equipped with All-door Emergency Exits in case one needs to leave the vehicle quickly. BMW Pennant Holder and BMW Flashing Lights and beacons are also available as an option. The appointments and design of the interior can be adapted to personal needs and desires at a detail level. 

    BMW 7 Series Protection Interior

    In the interior, the BMW 7 Series consists innovative BMW Interaction Bar defines the revolutionary cockpit design. Passengers in the second row of seats in the new BMW 7 Series Protection benefit from the standard electrically operated BMW Sun Protection blinds for the windows on both sides. The 1,265-watt digital amplifier, individually adjustable equalizers and 28 speakers combine to deliver a full, even sound for all those on board. The standard-fitted Intercom system allows the car’s occupants to communicate with people on the outside without having to open doors or windows.


    The optional Executive Lounge includes comfort seats with a reclining function for the rear seat behind the front passenger. The BMW Travel & Comfort package, available as an option, enhances the overall rear seat experience of the occupants. Another item on the options list is a BMW Cooling Box integrated between the rear seats to ensure the on-board drinks supplies are kept cold. The new BMW 7 Series Protection has the latest- generation V8 unit under the bonnet. Its BMW TwinPower Turbo technology includes an upgraded turbocharging system with an electrically operated blow-off valve and indirect charge air cooling, along with a cross-bank exhaust manifold. 


    BMW 7 Series Protection Performance

    BMW 7 Series Protection comes with the new 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine. It uses 48V mild hybrid technology to optimise power delivery and efficiency. The car produces an output of 390 kW / 530 hp and a maximum torque of 750 Nm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 km/hr in just 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 210 Km/hr. The new BMW 7 Series Protection features the latest generation of BMW iDrive with “QuickSelect” and BMW Operating System 8.5. The advanced display and operating system offer a redesigned entry screen and “QuickSelect” access with an improved menu structure oriented towards consumer electronics devices.

    The new entry screen permanently shows the map view of the navigation system or other displays that can be individually configured. The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps now not only offers an Augmented View display on the Information Display behind the steering wheel but also improved functions for even more precise and charging station-optimised navigation.

     BMW Efficient Dynamics includes features such as an 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

  • Pune Traffic Police Records Surge In Driving Licence Suspension Due To Traffic Violations | Auto News


    The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Pune has reported a significant surge in the suspension of driving licences for traffic offences in the current financial year. Figures reveal that between April of the previous year and January of the current year, a total of 750 driving licences were suspended, marking a noticeable rise from the 564 licences suspended in the fiscal year 2022-23.

    Increase in Licence Suspensions

    The uptick in driving licence suspensions underscores a proactive approach by authorities to address the growing concerns related to road safety and adherence to traffic regulations. This escalation reflects the stringent measures being implemented to deter reckless driving behaviors and ensure compliance with traffic laws.

    Despite the notable increase in driving licence suspensions, the numbers remain considerably lower than the overall volume of traffic violations recorded by the traffic police. In 2023 (January to December), a staggering 10.33 lakh cases of traffic violations were registered, indicating a substantial gap between the number of violations and the resultant licence suspensions.

    In 2023, the traffic police in Pune recorded a substantial number of violations across various categories, including 66,733 cases of signal jumping, 14,433 cases of wrong-side driving, and 11,739 cases of talking on phones while driving. These figures highlight key focus areas for enforcement and underscore the need for heightened vigilance to curb such violations effectively.

    Stringent Penalties

    According to the directives from the state transport department, a driving licence is suspended for three to six months. The drunk driving case can lead to a six-month suspension. On the other hand, speeding, using phones while driving, breaking signals, and talking on the phone while driving can lead to a three-month suspension.

  • UPI Payment Services Launched In Sri Lanka, Mauritius; PM Modi Attends Virtual Ceremony

    PM Modi has called it a special day for digital connectivity between India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius. “

  • Cisco Likely To Slash Thousands Of Jobs Next Week: Report

    Cisco last year issued layoff notices to nearly 4,000 employees, as the company rolled out efforts to “rebalance” and cut costs.

  • IPO-Bound Ola Electric Gets Certification For 2nd e-scooter Under Govt's PLI Scheme

    The company’s Ola S1 Pro and Ola S1 Air are now eligible for subsidies under the government’s auto PLI scheme for five years from the date of certification,  as per sources. 

  • India’s Top Cashback Credit Cards For 2024: Check Annual Charge, Joining Fee, And Benefits | Personal Finance News

    New Delhi: If you’ve been wondering how to save on everyday expenses, cashback credit cards might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Known for their simplicity and effectiveness, these cards offer a straightforward benefit to your spending. Using a credit card can give you cashback, meaning you get back some money from your purchases.

    But not all cashback cards are the same. Some give you a set percentage back on everything you buy, while others offer more cashback on certain types of purchases. (Also Read: Latest HDFC Bank FD Rates 2024: How Much Return Will You Get From Fixed Deposit? Check Here)

    With the right credit card, you can earn money back on the things you buy the most, like groceries or online shopping. To help you choose the best option, here’s a list of the top cashback credit cards in India: (Also Read: Latest SBI FD Rates 2024: How Much Return Will You Get From Fixed Deposit? Check Here)

    Best Cashback Credit Cards In India For February 2024:

    Cashback SBI Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee is Rs 999 and the same for the annual/renewal fee.

    Cashback SBI Card: Benefits

    5 percent cashback on all online spending and 1 percent cashback on all offline spending.

    Axis Ace Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are both Rs 499.

    Axis Ace Credit Card: Benefits

    5 percent cashback on utility bill payments and recharges via Google Pay, and 4 percent cashback on Swiggy, Zomato, and Ola.

    Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are Rs 500 each.

    Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card: Benefits

    5 percent unlimited cashback on Flipkart purchases and 4 percent cashback on partner merchants like Swiggy, PVR, etc.

    Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card: Annual Charge

    No joining fee or annual/renewal fee.

    Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card: Benefits

    Up to 5 percent cashback on Amazon purchases and 1 percent cashback on all offline spends.

    HDFC Millennia Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are Rs 1000 each.

    HDFC Millennia Credit Card: Benefits

    5 percent cash back on major online brand spends and 1 percent cash back on other spends.

    Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are Rs 500 each.

    Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card: Benefits

    Up to 25 percent cashback on transactions at the Airtel Thanks app.

    Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are Rs 499 each.

    Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card: Benefits

    2X cashback on online spending and low interest of 0.99 percent per month on credit card EMIs.

    Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card: Annual Charge

    The joining fee and annual/renewal fee are Rs 500 each.

    Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card: Benefits

    10 percent cashback on Swiggy food orders, Instamart, Dineout & Genie, and 5 percent cashback on online spending.

  • Toyota Resumes Dispatch of Innova Crysta, Fortuner and Hilux After A Brief Halt | Auto News

    After a temporary pause of dispatches, Toyota has resumed the delivery of its diesel-powered models, including the Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux. This decision follows a brief suspension initiated on January 29, 2024, after the discovery of inconsistencies during the diesel engine horsepower certification testing in these vehicles.

    Issue In Detail

    The suspension stemmed from concerns raised by Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), affiliated with Toyota Motor Corporation, regarding potential irregularities in certification. A special investigation committee was formed to delve into the matter. The internal inspection of the diesel engines revealed discrepancies in the ‘smoothing’ of power and torque curves, which could impact the engines’ power delivery and drivability.

    The investigation unearthed that the affected units were equipped with a different Electronic Control Unit (ECU) than specified for these models. However, Toyota has assured consumers that this deviation does not compromise the emissions or safety standards of the affected vehicles.

    Throughout the suspension period, Toyota maintained its manufacturing processes and continued to accept orders for its diesel-powered models. Consequently, there will be no delay in production, ensuring that waiting periods for the Fortuner, Hilux, and Innova Crysta remain unaffected.


    Toyota Diesel Engine Specifications

    In India, Toyota’s diesel lineup includes a 2.4-litre unit for the Innova Crysta and a 2.8-litre unit offered in the Fortuner and Hilux. Globally, these engines power as many as ten models across Toyota’s portfolio. Notably, the Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux collectively contribute to almost one-third of Toyota’s sales in India.
    Despite the temporary setback, the brand swiftly addressed the issue, ensuring that its diesel-powered vehicles meet the stringent regulations and uphold its reputation for reliability and performance. 

  • Tata Curvv Interiors Revealed: Check Design And Specifications | Auto News

    Tata Motors continues to rev up excitement in the Indian automotive market with a slew of upcoming launches, the latest being the highly anticipated Curvv. Following the recent debut of the Punch EV and with the electric Harrier on the horizon, all eyes are now on the Curvv, a crossover SUV that promises to redefine the segment. Originally unveiled in 2022 and showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo, the Curvv has been generating buzz ever since.

    Tata Curvv Design

    The Curvv test mule revealed a design that stays true to Tata’s new design philosophy. The front fascia, characterized by a sleek LED strip atop and dual-projector LED headlamps within triangular clusters below, hints at the carmaker’s departure from conventional aesthetics. This bold design language sets the Curvv apart from its predecessors, signaling a new era for Tata Motors.

    What’s Inside the Tata Curvv: 

    Inside the Curvv, there is a minimalist interior with an all-black layout. The cabin boasts modern features, including a floating touchscreen infotainment display, a fully digital instrument console, and Tata’s innovative two-spoke steering wheel with touch panel controls.


    Noteworthy additions such as powered ORVMs, push-button start, wireless smartphone charging, and a panoramic sunroof promise to enhance the driving experience, setting new standards in comfort and convenience.

    Tata Curvv Specifications

    Continuing its trend of offering both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric variants, Tata aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences with the Curvv. The electric version is expected to feature single- and dual-motor setups, offering impressive range and performance. With a range estimated at 400-500 km on a single charge, the EV Curvv aims to deliver both efficiency and exhilarating driving dynamics.

    For those inclined towards traditional powertrains, the ICE version of the Curvv packs a punch with a new 1.2-litre direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine, showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. Boasting 123 bhp and 225 Nm of torque, coupled with manual and automatic transmission options, the ICE Curvv promises a thrilling driving experience. Additionally, a CNG derivative is expected to join the lineup, further expanding the Curvv’s appeal in the market.

  • Telangana Govt Presents Rs 2.75 Lakh Crore Vote On Account Budget For FY 2024-25 Hyderabad

    The government proposed Rs 53,196 crores for implementation of six poll ‘guarantees’ of ruling Congress.