Bridgestone India opens its Exclusive Select Store ‘F1 Cars’ at Karur in Tamil Nadu

Bridgestone, the world’s numero uno tyre and rubber manufacturer has inaugurated its exclusive Select store at Karur, in Tamil Nadu. The exclusive Select showroom was formally inaugurated on March 12, 2014 by S Venkitachalam, Senior Deputy General Manager, PSR Sales – South Region, Bridgestone India Private Ltd.

The Bridgestone Select store boasts of having an exclusive Bridgestone retail ‘Identity and Sales’ in line with the global retail philosophy adopted successfully across the world.
Speaking on the occasion, Venkitachalam said: “We are back with yet another customer friendly, smart and stylized shop equipped with a wide product range and modern services to offer. Select is a unique retail channel concept of a quality shop which promises the customer a Better and Unique Buying experience”. The Select outlet, ‘F1 Cars’ is spread across 1,823 square feett showroom is located at KP Nagar, Opposite to IMA Hall, Erode Road, Karur.

At this showroom customers can see and feel the Bridgestone exclusivity, sophistication and progressiveness. It hosts several customer friendly facilities such as: Welcome and customer friendly environment, smart and stylised interiors, unparalleled customer service and wide product range, displays and designs. The other products and services available at the store include wheel alignment, wheel balancing, nitrogen filling, alloys, tyre changer and water wash. Bridgestone’s brand essence: ‘Serving society with superior quality’ is not only valid for its products but also for Bridgestone service standards which can be experienced at Select retail outlets.

Aggresive growth plan
As a part of its aggressive growth plan in the Indian Market Bridgestone has been expanding its ‘Select’ concept stores in India. Currently Bridgestone has 330 Select stores across all key cities in the country.

Indian operation

Bridgestone Indi started its operations in 1996. In March 1998 with setup of its manufacturing facility in Kheda, Madhya Pradesh, the tyre maker achieved its objective of running Indian manufactured Bridgestone tyres on Indian Roads. In a short stint of 14 years Bridgestone India is one of the leading tyre manufacturers in the country, both in the automotive original equipment manufacturers as well as the aftermarket segments.
Bridgestone Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is the world’s largest tyre and rubber manufacturing entity. In addition to tyres for use in a wide variety of applications, it also manufactures a broad range of diversified products, which include industrial rubber and chemical products and sporting goods. Its products are sold in over 150 nations and territories around the world.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles lay foundation stone for its new Bus Manufacturing Plant at Oragadam

The Oragadam, Chennai-based Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Private Ltd (DICV), the wholly-owned subsidiary of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer Daimler AG, yesterday laid the foundation stone of its new bus manufacturing plant.

From (L-R):  Markus Villinger, Head – Daimler Buses India; Hartmut Schick, Head – Daimler Buses & CEO – EvoBus GmbH; Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses and Marc Llistosella, MD & CEO, DICV.
Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, Daimler AG Board member, responsible for Daimler Trucks and Buses formally laid the foundation stone for the new bus plant in Tamil Nadu, India in the presence of Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses and CEO EvoBus GmbH, Marc Llistosella, Managing Director and CEO, DICV; Markus Villinger, Head, Daimler Buses, India, a host of Indian and International media, Dealers, Suppliers and DICV personnel.
While speaking to the select media persons who were taken to the plant, Dr Bernhard said: “On the basis of our strong truck business, we are now pressing ahead on the Indian bus market. For that purpose, we are consistently using existing suppliers, our production site and our sales network in India”.
New bus plant
The new Bus manufacturing plant is spread across an area of 27.91 acres will be constructed within the existing premises of DICV. The bus plant will manufacture and assemble buses under the Mercedes-Benz and BharatBenz brands and will be completed by second Quarter 2015.
The DICV plant at Oragadam, near Chennai in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu will thus be the only Daimler Truck plant globally that manufactures three brands of trucks and buses, as well as engines all under one roof. Daimler India buses will be offered in nine tonnnes, 16 tonnes and above 16 tonnes categories in both front and rear engine configurations. An investment of Rs 425 crore has been earmarked for the bus project in India for an installed capacity of 1,500 units in the first phase. The capacity can be further expanded to 4,000 vehcieles subsequently, a company official said.

Schick pointed out: “Our two-fold strategy with BharatBenz and Mercedes-Benz buses allows us to cater to the different needs of Indian customers in a perfect way. In terms of safety, fuel efficiency, quality, and comfort, both brands will set new standards in the Indian bus sector”.

From (L-R): Marc Llistosella, Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, Hartmut Schick and Markus Villinger.
Daimler India has partnered with Wrightbus, a leading global player in bus body building, for its front-engined buses. The state-of-the-art bus body building facility will be part of the new bus plant. The bus body will be superior in terms of technology and reliability meeting Daimler global standards of quality and efficiency.
Llistosella added: “We, at DICV, are extremely proud and confident about this new beginning. Since inception, we have delivered on all our promises for the Indian market, and we are continuously achieving new milestones. BharatBenz, having already achieved the No.4 position in trucks in India, has now become the preferred brand for most of the truck customers, thanks to its high performance products backed by best-in-class service levels. I am confident that the new bus project will continue to deliver same level of promise and experience to the customer”.
Villinger concurred: “The new Bus plant will roll out the first buses by second Quarter 2015. The bus division will have a dedicated strength of 300 personnel besides using the synergies of DICV’s existing expertise”.
Consolidation
It may be recalled that as early as in April 2013, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) consolidated commercial vehicle operations in India by integrating Mercedes-Benz Buses business into its operations. Subsequently, the Marketing, Sales and Service of Mercedes-Benz buses were aligned to the marketing function of DICV in line with Daimler’s global practice to ensure better synergies in business verticals.
The existing and upcoming Dealership network of DICV which caters to the BharatBenz range of trucks will also participate in the Daimler Bus business. The well-established and state-of-the-art dealerships will enhance the confidence of Indian customers. The network will ensure that every Bus customer is treated to an international service experience.
Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) is the subsidiary of Daimler AG, Stuttgart, Germany. DICV is contemplating on manufacturing medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles for the Indian volume market, under the brand name – BharatBenz. BharatBenz stands for Indian engineering with German DNA. The products have been engineered to serve all major customer segments, from owner-drivers up to large fleet operators. The efficiency of BharatBenz trucks is an optimal fit for customers keen on efficiency, a low Total Cost of Ownership over the life-cycle and highest profit potential for their businesses. The state-of-the-art production plant at Oragadam, near Chennai, spreads over 400 acres (160 hectares). It includes a modern test track designed to simulate Indian conditions – making it one of its kind in Asia.  DICV has a total dedicated investment of over Rs 4,400 crore (€ 700 million).
The Company also handles Production, Marketing, Sales and After Sales of Mercedes-Benz Actros Trucks in India. Mercedes-Benz Trucks with the Brand Promise ‘Trucks you can Trust’ are renowned world-wide for their reliability and efficiency under most extreme operating conditions, as well. These trucks also offer the best that Truck Technology has to offer. The Daimler Bus division in India was merged with DICV in April 2013. In May 2013, a new range of FUSO trucks were launched as part of Daimler’s ‘Trucks Asia’ strategy. DICV is currently focussed on expanding its presence in the Indian Bus market. To this end DICV is currently in the process of setting up a dedicated manufacturing facility for the manufacture of Daimler Buses under the Mercedes-Benz and BharatBenz brands. The new manufacturing facility will also include a state-of-the-art body-building facility within its premises. Sustainability being a core of Daimler’s corporate culture, DICV will focus on creating efficient, reliable and ecologically friendly products.
BharatBenz
BharatBenz is the Indian truck brand of Daimler AG, the world’s largest Commercial Vehicle manufacturer and inventor of the truck. Backed by over a century of global trucking experience and an in-depth understanding of the Indian terrain, BharatBenz is here to transform the country’s trucking industry. BharatBenz offers Indian customers an entire truck portfolio in the 9 to 49 tonne range across various applications. The name – BharatBenz – brings out the two most defining qualities of a brand that is being built exclusively for India. ‘Bharat’ carries the values, ideologies and spirit of the nation, and reinforces the brand’s commitment to serve the Indian market. ‘Benz’ upholds the lineage of innovation, technological brilliance and engineering excellence that have given unparalleled performance and great value for generations. Powered by the synergy between global leadership in technology and local deep rooted customer knowledge, BharatBenz builds robust, reliable, performance-oriented trucks to drive maximum productivity and deliver maximum value to customers across the country. With BharatBenz, a new era in Indian trucking has arrived.

Techlligent 2014 held in Pune organised by PCCOE and DesignTech CAD

The Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering (PICCOE), one of thighly renowned institute in the area, along with DesignTech CAD Academy, organised the national level technical symposium called Techlligent 2014, according to a statement.

Techlligent is a combination of techlonogy and intelligent, which is being organised for the seventh year in a row. This year’s event kicked-off on February 25, 2014 and ended the flowing day, which was packed with 40 plus scintilating events, covering  domains as well as national level project competition and paper presentation for students.

Dr Chandrakant R Sonawane, Head of the Department, PCCOE said: “We are happy to be associated with DesignTech CAD Academy. We always look forward to key industry people to support and motivate the students for their contribution to teh fest and DesignTech CAD Academy had enthusiastically supported us. The aim of Techilligent is to develop the students and explore their technical knowledge”.
Larger number of students not only from Pune, but also from Nagpur, Karad, Jalgaon and other remote parts of Maharashtra contributed and participated in Techlligent. Total number of 2,500 students across Maharashtra had participated in Techlligent. All five departments such as Mechanical, Civil, Electronics and Telecommunication, Computer and IT actively participated and made the event a huge success.
On this occasion, DA Darekar, the Head of  DesignTech CAD academy  said: “ The event provided a platform for the students to showcase their talent which will help them in their careers. PCCOE contributed greatly towards it and we were glad to be a part of the fest. The fest gave us the opportunity to interact with young minds”.
DesignTech CAD is ISO 9000(2008) Certified academy and Authorised Training and Education partner of Siemens Industry Software Pvt Ltd and Altair Engineering Pvt Ltd and provides authorised courses on their  respective CAD/CAM/CAE and PLM solutions.  It operates from Pune, Delhi and Hyderabad. DesignTech CAD Academy, Training and Education division of DesignTech Systems offers company certified CAD/CAE/PLM  training programme to Engineering Graduates, Working Professionals and Corporate.

Rituparna Sengupta inaugurates ‘The MobileStore Lounge’ in Kolkata

Mobile technology is ever changing and can be confusing and complicated at times. It brings a host of features, of which only a few are understood and a fewer are used. The MobileStore launches the first ever smartphone destination, The MobileStore Lounge in Ballygunge, Kolkata. A place that makes technology easy, Rituparna Sengupta, one of the most renowned actresses of the Indian film fraternity inaugurated The MobileStore Lounge.

Located in the most iconic place in Kolkata, at Ballygunge, The MobileStore Lounge makes it easy to browse, choose, use and pay for Smart phones and tablets with the help of Brand experience zones where devices from brands like Samsung, Nokia, HTC, Sony and Apple are displayed in each brand experience zone, according a company statement. The lounge boasts of the first ever phone OS agnostic Data Transfer Dock facility absolutely free. So you can transfer data from one phone to another without any worries.

Commenting on the launch of The MobileStore Lounge, Himanshu Chakrawarti, CEO – The MobileStore Limited said: “The MobileStore Lounge is a unique experience and moves beyond live display into the realm of actual larger than life experience. With technology elements, live features and very friendly and intensively trained Tech Buddies, the experience of the Lounge is aimed at making the consumer at ease with technology”.
Rituparna, overwhelmed with the design of the smartphone destination stated: “The Lounge is an ideal place for consumers to not only enjoy shopping but also get educated about the features of their favorite smartphone. I am glad that the people of Kolkata have been offered the comfort and ease of shopping at India’s largest smartphone destination”.
A hand-picked team of intensively trained Tech Buddies from internal The MobileStore force as well as external sources, who have extreme comfort with gadgets, conduct live experiences and bring alive usage of smartphones to the customers. They are not the conventional sales staff but they are Tech Buddies. The MobileStore Lounge is the first ever store with complimenting accessories for each phone placed below the phone. So a customer doesn’t really need to look around what compliments his handset.
The MobileStore Lounge, is a one stop Smart Phone shop that provides, multi brand handsets, tablets, complimenting accessories and brand experience zones all under one roof. It showcases ‘live experience’ to bring out the power of technology for everyday consumer use. The MobileStore India’s largest mobile telephony retailer provides one stop mobile solution shop that provides, multi brand handsets, tablets, accessories, connections, repairs, easy EMI solutions and VAS, across its 800 outlets in 100 plus cities, thus covering every major town in every state across India.
The MobileStore launched India’s first next generation store ‘The MobileStore Lounge’ at Connaught Place – Delhi and Phoenix MarketCity, Viman Nagar- Pune, Near GIP Mall – Noida, Indiranagar – Bengaluru and now in Ballygunge- Kolkata. The MobileStore lounge- a smartphone destination, is the place that makes technology easy! It maximizes ‘live experience’ of smartphones to bring across the power of technology for everyday consumer use! With technology elements, live features, India’s first android zone and very friendly tech buddies, the experience of the Lounge is like no other.
The MobileStore caters to the Indian consumer‘s choice of the widest range of mobile phones with exciting offers. The MobileStore offers complete telecom solutions right from purchase of handsets, data cards, connections to post purchase services like Theft Insurance, Extended Warranty. It also offers wide range of accessories to choose from.

Auto Expo 2014: ACMA organises National Conference on ‘Meeting Challenges of Exports: Product Liability, Warranty & Recall

With the aim of providing the participants drive a deeper insight into the implications and lessons learned on risk management, engineering best practices and crisis strategy, the apex body, Auto Components Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) organised a National Conference on Meeting Challenges of Exports: Produc Liability, Warranty & Recall in New Delhi.

The conference, according to ACMA, was organised on early last week, was with a view to drive a deeper understanding for participants on global standards, processes and strategies.
This Conference, which was held at the Holiday Inn, Mayur Vihar was inaugurated by the Joint Secretary Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ravi Capoor. The conference was addressed by eminent speakers from various firms including Bharat Forge, Anand Automotive Group, Cummins India Ltd, Global Autotech Ltd, Avocado Rechtsanwälte, Germany, Supply Chain Services International, LLC and AON Global Singapore (Insurance Brokers) who addressed the following topics, namely, Importance and Relevance – A perspective from IPO Forum, Risk Indemnification and Insurance Clauses – Review and Compliance and Minimising risk through Insurance to name a few.
Major fillip
This initiative was part of ACMA’s target on export promotion and to provide a fillip to the Indian community at large for auto components. With rising exports and interdependence of global trade, the demands for product liability and product recall insurances are expected to become increasingly crucial and essential to the supplier community. Apparently, this is because legal liability is imminent in every product that they sell. It is therefore important to strategically avoid and manage legal hazards related to claims of non-performance of vehicle parts and systems.

Auto Expo 2014: ACMA, Fraunhofer aim at sensitising innovation culture in Indian auto industry

Seminar on cultivating innovative culture amongst Indian auto component players.

With the apparent aim of sensitising the Indian auto industry to adopt a culture of innovation, the apex body, Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) and Fraunhofer have forged alliance to deliberate their aspirations and potential for future work at a seminar, jointly organised by them at the Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi on February 8, 2014 as part of Auto Expo 2014.

According to ACMA statement, speakers from both organisations emphasised on the necessity for organisations to focus more towards innovation and develop a road map for the industry. The automotive market the world over is intrinsically dynamic and so are the needs of its customers. The last three to five years have seen a systematic shift with organisations focusing more on engineering, design and technology; but innovation management is critical today as well.
Efficiency is critical
Efficiency today is key and a highly relevant ingredient for production technology & processes; this not only helps to build competitive advantages in the cluttered arena, it also impacts business success. With the current slowdown, one must take cognizance of critical factors prevailing in the market place and sustain through optimization and continuous improvisation. This will lead to business success which is a function of quality, productivity, flexibility as well as energy costs, a statement issued by the apex body said.
Association
This association between ACMA and Fraunhofer is an initiative towards providing better technology in order to meet the changing demands of customers. With the focus being more on technology and design, this association is expected to create awareness and increase the need to recognize how business success can be fruitful for the Indian Automotive industry.
Fraunhofer is one of Europe’s largest application-oriented research organisations. Its research efforts are geared entirely to people’s needs: health, security, communication, energy and the environment. Fraunhofer expands across 80 institutions and 22,000 researchers from across the globe. Through research and development Fraunhofer aims to impact lives by shaping technology, designing products, improving methods and techniques, overall opening new vistas. On an average, two patents are filed on a daily basis by researchers associated with Fraunhofer.
Key speakers present at the seminar included Arvind Kapur, Past President ACMA & Chairman, ACMA Centre for Excellence; Srivats Ram, Past President ACMA & Chairman, ACMA Centre for Technology, AnandiIyer, Head, Fraunhofer Representative Office, India and officials representing Fraunhofer at the seminar were Ruediger Heim, Director of R&D Division, Structural Durability, Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability (LBF); Dr Manfred Dangelmaier, Director, Business Area Engineering Systems, Fraunhofer IAO; Dr Andreas Sterzing, Director, Bulk Metal Forming, Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming (IWU) and Dr Kristian Arntz, Head of Department, Laser Material Processing, Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT).

Tata Bolt premium hatchback and classy sedan Zest cars launched in India

Tata Motors today launched two all-new cars – the classy sedan, ZEST and the sporty, dynamic premium hatchback, BOLT that look to redefine the passenger car market with new design aesthetics, segment-defining drive experience and high-tech Infotainment system, according to a company statement.

Ranjit Yadav, President, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, Dr Tim Leverton, President and Head – Advanced and Product Engineering, ERC, Tata Motors Ltd and Narain Karthikeyan, unveil the all-new stunning and enticing ZEST. This new compact sedan is accompanied with stylish, cutting-edge, interiors coupled with F-Tronic technology, AMT in diesel, making it a best –in- class offering.
ZEST – that clearly signifies enthusiasm for life, for the sense of excitement, anticipation, and energy it brings, approaching life as an adventure. It is all about being vivacious and energetic. Those who have Zest exude excitement and energy while approaching life and that is the new ZEST Sedan, in character.

Ranjit Yadav and Dr Tim Leverton with the all new premium hatchback – BOLT, from Tata Motors. Powered by the segment first, Turbocharged MPFi Petrol engine – REVOTRON 1.2T, the sporty, dynamic  BOLT promises to deliver a thrilling and a superlative drive experience. BOLT– with the name signifying speed, it represents an attitude of winning, and staying ahead. This attitude is embodied in the all-new BOLT in all aspects of design, drive and seamless connect.
Speaking on the occasion of the launch Yadav said: “We are showcasing to the global market the much awaited next generation cars – the ZEST, a stunning and exciting new compact sedan and the BOLT, a dynamic hatch. These cars have been engineered for global markets, through global teams across India, UK and Korea to set new standards in their respective segments. These cars are a true representation of our Horizonext philosophy, with best-in-class offerings for performance that yet offers economy and efficiency”. ZEST and BOLT have been designed and developed based on three key fundamental principles, namely, DesigNext, DriveNext, ConnectNext. ZEST and BOLT, a result of the collaborative design inputs from the three Tata Motors design studios in Pune, Coventry (UK) and Turin ( Italy), come with several segment first features and a new design language on the exterior and the interior of the car.
New Design Language
The company has introduced a new design language – DesignNext – that gives an expression to an excellent combination of sleek, smart styling and enhanced comfort that increases driver productivity. The new design language distills the fine points of auto design with cuts and lines that accentuate the modern India and its global citizens. The new design semantics include the new Tata signature grill with new the Humanity Line, visually flowing into the dynamic headlamps to create a unique design signature for the brands. With flowing lines that create an illusion of movement even when the car is standing still, its exterior exaggerates size to give it a feeling of a larger hatchback or a sedan. In the ZEST, the projector headlamps complemented by chrome accents, the daytime running lights, the rear treatment of LED lamps, the trendy 15” alloy wheels, combined with a signature Buzz Blue colour, add up to a dynamic and stylish pouncing stance. Matching aesthetic design with function, the BOLT’s floating roof spoiler not only provides an extra-sporty touch but also aids in aerodynamics. The sporty, confident look is further enhanced with fog lamp Bezels.
Interiors
The interiors of both these cars are geared for a premium feel. The driver-focused dashboard architecture carries premium chrome embellishment to render the cockpit with an aura of elegance. The instrument cluster and the central AC vents are connected in a single wing-shaped graphics.
Performance & Economy
DriveNext, is a new approach to the driving dynamics that offers driver complete control of a highly responsive machine. The ZEST and BOLT will be powered by the segment-first, Turbocharged Intercooled Multi-point Fuel-Injected (MPFi) Petrol Engine, REVOTRON 1.2T, which brings revolution in refinement, performance and economy.
Transmission
The diesel variant of ZEST will have the first-in-class F-Tronic technology-enabled, 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission and will be powered by a segment-leading 90PS engine with 200 Nm of uninterrupted flat torque to offer a peppy drive with seamless delivery of power.
Safety Features
Further, both ZEST and BOLT will have EPAS (Electronic Power Assisted System), with ‘Active Return’ function and speed sensitive power steering – a first for both segments. New advanced ABS for improved braking efficiency and with yet another segment-first, the Cornering Stability feature, add to the safety features of the vehicle. A silent, quieter cabin will ensure a pleasant and superlative drive experience. The Dual-path suspension coupled with a zero pivot subframe ensures smooth and comfortable ride. The improved suspension provides effective isolation from road inputs without compromising on the body control, translating into a class leading balance between ride and handling. This provides for a very comfortable but engaging drive experience.
Entertainment
At Tata Motors, with ConnectNext, the company will deliver a new level of driving and ownership experience as users from their own smart device, can not only enjoy superior quality of entertainment, control the deliverance of all ergonomics, acoustics and climatic needs, but also get access to outside world seamlessly, with a touch.
Alliance with HARMAN
Recognising the dynamic consumer world where connectivity is an increasing need for all, Tata Motors has associated with HARMAN for designing the infotainment and audio acoustics system and with MapmyIndia for next generation navigation & location based services.

Technology

The company has incorporated latest new technologies to make the ZEST and the BOLT, the most connected, high-tech hatchback and sedan respectively. Forming the core of the ConnectNext experience is the all-new HARMAN infotainment system with first-in-class features that will allow the car users to stay connected with friends, family and the world.
With the five-inch touchscreen supporting rich multimedia experience, advanced Bluetooth technology, smart voice recognition, advanced smartphone integration, supporting phone enabled navigation, social media integration, touch phone controlled interface, the ZEST and the BOLT will ensure these car users could seamlessly integrate their professional and personal lives into their commute and travel, while bringing in an unparalled infotainment experience. The system has in-built HVAC controls, which is a first-in-class experience for all consumers.
Global Portfolio of Cars
Manufactured on a completely enhanced X1 platform, the ZEST and the BOLT mark a strategic shift towards a global portfolio of cars designed to offer high performance and connectivity. These cars will be launched in 2014 in India and subsequently in other countries.  Tata Motors is India’s largest automobile company, with consolidated revenues of Rs 1, 88,818 crore ($ 34.7 billion) in 2012-13. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa and Indonesia. Among them is Jaguar Land Rover, the business comprising the two iconic British brands. It also has an industrial joint venture with Fiat in India.  With over 8 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top in passenger vehicles. It is also the world’s fifth largest truck manufacturer and fourth largest bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, CIS and Russia.

Continental, celebrating a decade of making a breakthrough in double-clutch transmission

Automatic transmission and a sporty driving style were once terms you would not necessarily link. But we are now celebrating the tenth anniversary of the wide-scale launch of a technology that dispelled this apparent contradiction: the double clutch transmission (DCT).

Increasing numbers of motorists, particularly in Europe and China, are thrilling to the combination of fun-filled driving and a fully automatic transmission – while using five percent less fuel than with a manual transmission. It is hardly surprising that the DCT is one of the most significant innovations in the transmission sector. Continental is one of the pioneers of this technology, says a company statement.

“We’ve been involved in double-clutch control since the end of the 1990s. From the outset, we have used our expertise in managing stepped automatic and continuously variable transmissions. This meant that in 2003, we were able to make a crucial contribution to a breakthrough in this transmission technology,” explains Rudolf Stark, head of the Transmission business unit.
Milestone
Continental’s expertise is used in almost every DCT on the market. In 2013 the international automotive supplier produced approximately 14 million control units worldwide, over two million of them coming from the pioneering plant in Nuremberg alone. Continental set milestones for this technology right from the very start: firstly with a control unit fully integrated into the transmission for the world’s first six-speed wet double-clutch transmission, the Volkswagen DQ250, and from 2007 on with the control unit for the first dry version of a gearbox of this type with seven speeds.
Only a year later, in an electro-mechanically actuated Getrag DCT, Continental presented a mechatronics module combining for the first time the transmission control unit and two brushless DC gearshift motors. The unit also contained sensors that record the position of the gear actuators. This made the gearshift processes even quicker and more accurate. A further advantage of this high level of functional integration was a significant reduction in the module’s weight and development cost.
Vital importance
In actual fact, the systematics and construction of a double-clutch transmission date back some 70 years. At its heart is a geartrain divided into two sub-transmissions. One is responsible for the even-numbered gears and the other for the odd-numbered ones. Each sub-transmission is connected to the engine flywheel via its own clutch. The clutch that lies in the flow of force of the gear that has been selected is engaged, while the other one remains disengaged.
Generally two multi-disk clutches, coated with transmission fluid, are used for the “wet” double clutch transmission. The fluid cools the clutch and also lubricates the wheel set. Conversely, “dry” DCTs operate with two dry-running friction-disk clutches. These are chiefly used solely in combination with engines with up to approximately 250 Nm torque. This is because without cooling fluid, it is difficult to dissipate the heat given off at higher levels of performance when the vehicle is shifting gear and pulling away.
With the one clutch disengaging in the same measure as the other one engages, it is possible to shift gears without any interruption in traction. The transmission control unit is crucially important in this process. Depending on what the driver’s performance requirement is, the control unit selects the right gear stage at lightning speed and manages the clutches and corresponding gearshift actuator so that the gear change is carried out promptly yet comfortably. This requires electronics that are not just high-performance but also heavy-duty. They must, after all, ensure that the gearshift processes perform with consistent uniformly throughout the service life of the vehicle.
Investments
Continental has succeeded in meeting such demanding requirements on a sustained basis. The control unit and its fully automated production process were developed at Continental’s main plant for transmission control in Nuremberg. Up to 100 different semiconductor components are used per module – in addition to many other sensor and mechatronic components. These components are positioned on a gold surface and connected by means of gold wires. One wire is three times thinner than a human hair. As it is not possible to process such fine structures manually, Continental employs bonders that carry out more than 100 work steps per second. The plants in Romania, Mexico, China, and Korea making up the global production network all use exactly the same manufacturing process.
Continental has once again stepped up advanced development of control unit technology, putting a new test and development center into operation in Nuremberg at the beginning of last year. The new facilities make it possible not only to test the functioning of the control electronics but also to test how they interact with the hydraulic or electro-mechanical actuator. This enables even more precise fine tuning of the system.
Ideal for use in hybrid drives
Until now mainly passenger cars were fitted with a double-clutch transmission. Such transmissions are, however, increasingly being installed in commercial vehicles and agricultural implements as well. It has even made inroads into two-wheeled vehicles. The DCT is an ideal teammate for an electrified drive system: Thanks to the system design with two sub-transmissions, it is possible not merely to position the electric motor between the engine and transmission; it can also be connected to one or both wheel sets with a switchable coupling. With this versatility, a further chapter in the success story of this innovative transmission type is sure to be written.
With provisional sales of around € 33.3 billion in 2013, Continental is among the leading automotive suppliers worldwide. As a supplier of brake systems, systems and components for powertrains and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics, tires, and technical elastomers, Continental contributes to enhanced driving safety and global climate protection. Continental is also an expert partner in networked automobile communication. Continental currently has more than 177,000 employees in 46 countries.
The Automotive Group with its three divisions Chassis & Safety (sales of around € 7.0 billion in 2012, 34,500 employees), Powertrain (sales of approximately €6.1 billion in 2012, 31,000 employees) and Interior (sales of approximately € 6.4 billion in 2012, 33,000 employees) achieved sales of about € 19.5 billion in 2012. The Automotive Group is present in more than 170 locations worldwide. As a partner of the automotive and commercial vehicle industry, it develops and produces innovative products and systems for a modern automotive future, in which cars provide individual mobility and driving pleasure consistent with driving safety, environmental responsibility and cost-efficiency.
The Chassis & Safety Division develops and produces electronic and hydraulic brake and chassis control systems, sensors, driver assistance systems, airbag electronics and -sensorics, washer systems and electronic air suspension systems. Its core competence is the integration of active and passive driving safety into ContiGuard. The Powertrain Division integrates innovative and efficient system solutions for vehicle powertrains. The comprehensive range of products includes gasoline and diesel injection systems, engine management, transmission control, including sensors and actuators, as well as fuel-supply systems and components and systems for hybrid and electric drives. Information management is at the very heart of the Interior Division, which provides a range of products that includes instrument clusters and multifunctional displays, control units, electronic car-entry systems, tire-monitoring systems, radios, multimedia and navigation systems, climate control systems, telematics solutions and cockpit modules and systems.

Dassault Systemes Opens SOLIDWORKS World 2014 in San Diego

Dassault Systèmes, the 3D EXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, today opened its 16th Annual SOLIDWORKS World conference at the San Diego Convention Centre in San Diego, California (USA).

According to a company statement, SOLIDWORKS World 2014 continues through Wednesday, January 29, 2014.  Beginning today, partners, industry leaders and over 4,500 of the world’s most talented and innovative design and mechanical engineers will share their stories, explore new ideas and become inspired to take their projects to the next level. In the Age of Experience, the world of design has changed: more social, more conceptual and collaboration is critical. SOLIDWORKS World 2014 will highlight customers who have used SOLIDWORKS design applications to open new horizons for design and business.
Presenters include:

·         Hugh Herr, the head of Biomechatronics Research at MIT’s Media Lab

·         eatART Foundation, an education charity that fosters art research and energy awareness

·         Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project, developer of the 2014 US Olympic bobsled

·     Professors Max Lizarraga and Miranda Jerry of Mt. San Antonio College, where the Certified SolidWorks Associate certification test is the final exam

In addition, SOLIDWORKS World 2014 features presentations from customers who have been using the new SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Conceptual application on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform since June 2013. Dassault Systèmes will demonstrate the SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Conceptual social design environment that advances conceptual design. With this new application, all stakeholders can quickly capture and develop their ideas digitally and engage their communities to create winning concepts.

Other highlights of SOLIDWORKS World 2014 include:

·         Demonstrations of the recently launched SOLIDWORKS 2014 design portfolio, including 3D CAD, Simulation, Product Data Management, Technical Communication and Electrical Design, that furthers the ability of companies to design without limits

·         Customer stories and products from industries ranging from manufacturing and medical instruments to consumer electronics and renewable energy

·         Sessions showcasing modeling essentials, design automation, productivity applications and other topics designed to help users work faster and be more efficient;

·         More than 200 in-depth technical training sessions, many of them hands on, covering topics such as “Sheet Metal for the Casual User,” “The Art of the Swoopy Part,” and “Electrical 3D – Harnessing;” and

·         The Partner Pavilion, featuring more than 100 hardware and software vendors who work with SOLIDWORKS applications to deliver new business benefits.

“At SOLIDWORKS World we focus on showcasing amazing customers who epitomize the creativity and passion of the SOLIDWORKS community. This year we will also share a new application, Mechanical Conceptual, that will provide our users with the freedom to design the way they want, helping them quickly turn inspiration into reality,” said Bertrand Sicot, CEO, SOLIDWORKS, Dassault Systèmes. “I’m looking forward to showing off SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Conceptual and sharing how it has already transformed the conceptual design process.”
For more information about SOLIDWORKS World 2014, visit solidworks.com/sww/. Video demonstrations of SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Conceptual are available at blogs.solidworks.com/solidworksblog/2013/01/solidworks-world-2013-complete-day-1-general-session-video.html.
Dassault Systèmes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations.  Its world-leading solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported.  Dassault Systèmes’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world.  The group brings value to over 170,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries.  For more information, visit 3ds.com. CATIA, SOLIDWORKS, SIMULIA, DELMIA, ENOVIA, GEOVIA, EXALEAD, NETVIBES, 3DSWYM and 3D VIA are registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries in the US and/or other countries.

ASSOCHAM, SriCity felicitate Dr MYS Prasad for the successful launch of GSLV-D5

The ASSOCHAM and SriCity have lauded the efforts of the Indian scientists led by Dr MYS Prasad for the successful launch of GSLV-D5, according to a media statement.

Dr Prasad with the Consul General of Thailand, Japan and Ravindra Sannareddy.
“The successful launch of  GSLV-D5 with an indigenous cryogenic stage, is one of the greatest achievements of ISRO. This is an important step that the country has taken towards the goal of total self-reliance in space technology. The eminent launch team headed by Dr MYS Prasad deserves praise for the hard work and dedication,” Ravindra Sannareddy, Chairman, ASSOCHAM’s Southern Regional Chapter and MD, Sri City said, while speaking at a felicitation function jointly organised by ASSOCHAM and Sri City, held in Chennai.

Seshagiri Gao with Sandya Cheriyan, Dr Badarinath and Ravindra Sannareddy.
The felicitation function was held to celebrate the great scientific and technological achievement and to honour the following eminent scientists of Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota : Dr  Prasad, Director, V Seshagiri Rao, Associate Director, Dr  SV Subba Rao, Deputy Director, VAST, MS Pannirselvam, Range Operations Director, V Ranganathan, Chief General Manager, SPP, and M Badarinarayana Murthy, Chief General Manager, LSSF.
Speaking after being felicitated, Dr. Prasad said, “I consider this as a great privilege and honour for the entire ISRO community, and thank the ASSOCHAM and particularly Mr. Ravindra Sannareddy for organising such a colourful event.” He said that ISRO is progressing well because of a fantastic teamwork of the entire ISRO community, industries and educational institutions that had contributed to the unalloyed success of various missions, including the recent GSLV mission with indigenous cryogenic stage.
Sharing the details of the pre-launch operations, Dr. Prasad said the launch campaign spreads for about 70 days and throughout this period the entire SHAR community works round the clock. “The teams headed by the distinguished senior scientists, who are present here, demonstrated excellent team work,” Dr. Prasad added. All other scientists also briefly shared their experiences and thanked the ASSOCHAM and Sri City for the honour and felicitation.

Ravindra Sannareddy welcoming the gathering.
Besides the members of ASSOCHAM and customers of Sri City, the impressive ceremony was attended by  numerous dignitaries drawn from various sectors of business and industry and Media.  Prominent among the guests were, the Consul General of Japan Masanore Nakano, the Consul General of Thailand Mr. Tajtai Tmangraksat, the Labour Attache from the Malaysian Consulate Gunaseelan Natarajan, the Consul General of Federal Republic of Germany Dr Stefan Wayback, Martin Landauer Economic Consul from the Australian Consulate, Padma Bhushan Dr SS Badarinath, Chairman Emeritus, Sankara Neyralaya, Dr KM Cherian, Chairman, Frontier Lifeline, AK Choudhary, Development Commissioner SriCity, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Rajeev Ranjan, Secretary, Department of Roads and Buildings, George Lin, Director, Taipei World Trade Centre, Chennai, and Chris Williamson, Danieli India. The function began with one minute’s silence held in memory of the Legendary Telugu actor Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao, who passed away on January 22.