The popular car nameplate has evolved through three generations
The Maruti Alto is one of the longest-running car nameplates in India, and it has now surpassed 45 lakh units in total sales over the span of more than two decades. Let’s take a quick look at its journey and achievements in the country.
The Evolution of the “Alto” Nameplate in India
The “Alto” nameplate was introduced by Maruti in India in 2000. Within just four years of its launch, the Maruti hatchback became a top-selling car in the market. In 2010, Maruti introduced the “Alto K10” variant with a larger 1-litre engine. The same year, the carmaker also launched CNG variants of the hatchback.
In 2012, Maruti introduced a new-generation Alto and added the “800” suffix for the entry-level model. Around the same time, the carmaker achieved 20 lakh unit sales for the entry-level hatchback. In 2014, Maruti launched the second-generation Alto K10. Two years later, the Alto nameplate crossed the 30 lakh sales milestone, and in 2020, it surpassed 10 lakh more units.
Maruti’s Commentary on the Achievement
Shashank Srivastava, Maruti Suzuki’s Senior Executive Officer of Marketing and Sales, expressed pride in the journey of the brand Alto over the past two decades. He acknowledged the strong emotional connection the customers have with the Alto and stated that achieving the 45 lakh customer milestone is a testament to the unwavering support and trust they have placed in Maruti. He also highlighted that no other car brand has achieved this milestone to date.
The third-generation Alto K10 was introduced in 2022 and is currently the only Alto model available for purchase after the discontinuation of the Alto 800 due to the transition to BS6.2 emission norms. The present-day Alto features a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, four power windows, dual airbags, and a reverse parking camera.
The entry-level hatchback is powered by a 1-litre Dualjet petrol engine with 67PS and 89Nm of power, paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed AMT. The same engine is also available in CNG with reduced output of 57PS and 82Nm, and it is only offered with a 5-speed manual. The current Alto also includes idle-engine start/stop technology, which helps reduce fuel consumption in traffic situations.
The Maruti Alto K10 is available in four variants – Std (O), LXi, VXi, and VXi+. The prices range from Rs 3.99 lakh to Rs 5.96 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It competes with the Renault Kwid and can also be considered as an alternative to the Maruti S-Presso.
The Conrad C144S superyacht, an evolved variant of the award-winning C133 “Viatoris”, proudly stands as a recipient of the 2023 World Superyacht Award Judge’s Commendation. The marine specialists at Denison Yacht Sales are thrilled to announce that Hull #4 of the outstanding superyacht series is currently available through duPont REGISTRY Discovery. Exhibiting a timeless design, the C144S blends a modern aesthetic with a striking silhouette, embodying strength and grace on the water.
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The Texas-based hypercar manufacturer, Hennessey, started as a tuning shop and later became a reputable brand with its custom-made model, the Venom F5. Currently, the company is focused on producing the Coupe, Roadster, and track-focused Revolution versions of the Venom F5. However, their attention has already shifted towards planning their next model, which is expected to arrive in 2027 or 2028.
In an interview with Top Gear magazine, John Hennessey hinted that their upcoming vehicle may draw inspiration from the legendary Porsche Carrera GT. While he didn’t provide specific details, the magazine suggests that it could be an analog open-top car, featuring a naturally aspirated engine paired with a manual gearbox. To refresh your memory, the Carrera GT, which preceded the 918 Spyder, was a V10 targa with a manual transmission and no turbocharging.
The Volkswagen Golf has become a benchmark in the world of hatchbacks. It has continuously evolved over the years, making it one of the most capable and versatile cars on the market. Despite all the changes, it still retains its original character.
The first generation of the Golf, known as the Mk1, was introduced in 1974. At that time, the hatchback genre was still in its early stages. The Golf played a significant role in shaping the hatchback market into what it is today.
Now, 46 years later, we have reached the eighth-generation model. Let’s take a look at how Volkswagen transformed a humble hatchback into an iconic car.
The Golf was designed as a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the Beetle. Its sleek lines were created by renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Golf’s instant success can be seen in the fact that one million units had already been produced by October 1976.
While the Golf started as a practical family car, a group of passionate VW engineers turned it into a performance car. This led to the creation of the Golf GTI in the late 1970s, igniting the hot hatch trend that continues today.
VW’s in-house design team updated Giugiaro’s design for the longer and wider Mk2 Golf, which debuted in 1983. It sold an impressive 6.3 million units before being replaced by the all-new Mk3 in 1991.
The Mk3 Golf won the 1992 European Car of the Year award, succeeding the Mk2 Golf which lost to the Peugeot 205 and Fiat Uno. The more luxurious and expensive Mk4 was introduced in 1997, featuring a softer and rounder design. It was followed by the larger and faster Mk5 in 2003, which received subtle updates for the Mk6 in 2008.
In addition to the standard hatchback, there have also been estate and convertible versions of the Golf. The Golf Cabriolet, with its distinctive basket-handle rollover bar (later removed in the Mk6 Cabrio), was originally produced by Karmann on a dedicated assembly line.
Electric vehicles have come a long way since their inception, evolving from being an ecological statement in the car niche to becoming a feasible personal mobility option. While Tesla’s efforts have been crucial to the current state of electric mobility, other automakers, such as General Motors with its GM EV1, have also played a significant role. Despite its short lifespan, the GM EV1 had a significant impact on today’s electric mobility scene. Introduced in 1996, this “plug-in” car was a two-seater electric vehicle with a futuristic design aimed at reducing pollution and promoting renewable energy sources like electricity. It boasted upgraded technology that allowed for a 140-mile range on a single charge, setting new global standards in vehicle engineering.
Unfortunately, the GM EV1 was discontinued in the late 1990s due to high production costs and lack of consumer interest. However, its accomplishments continue to hold relevance in EV history, as it touched on several key themes. The EV1 spurred research and development efforts in electric vehicles, exploring how technology can improve performance efficiency and how market forces can strengthen sustainability in electric mobility. As new technologies shape our lifestyles, there is much to learn from the influence of the GM EV1 on automotive electric mobility and charging infrastructure standards, despite its premature discontinuation.
In the early 1990s, General Motors, being a dominant car manufacturer, recognized the growing concerns surrounding climate change and made significant progress towards innovation. In 1990, they debuted the Impact, a two-seater sportster at the LA Auto Show. This was the predecessor of the EV1 and marked the initial efforts across the industry to limit harmful emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Drawing inspiration from legacy models like the SunRaycer, GM’s team leveraged their technical and design expertise to develop a highly influential electric vehicle that would shape the EV industry.
Following the success of the Impact, a group of talented GM engineers and designers embarked on an ambitious adventure with sustainability as their driving force. They aimed to develop an electric vehicle that was ecologically benign, efficient, and ahead of its time. In 1994, GM launched the PrEView program, lending 50 hand-built Impact electric cars to drivers for one to two weeks in exchange for valuable feedback used for further development of the EV1. The original Impact vehicles were eventually destroyed, but their design served as the foundation for the GM EV1. Notably, this was General Motors’ first car branded with their company nameplate instead of a subsidiary marque.
The concept of electric cars has been around since the 1830s, but General Motors became the first to introduce a consumer-ready electric car in 1996, 14 years before the Nissan Leaf. The GM EV1, as it was officially called, was the result of years of research and development. It featured innovative elements such as regenerative braking and a robust powertrain system for long-lasting performance and extended range capabilities. The launch of the GM EV1 marked a significant milestone for General Motors and propelled the advancement of electric vehicles by delivering an impressive range of up to 140 miles per charge cycle. Its range, efficiency, and performance set new standards and inspired other automakers to invest in electric vehicle research and development. The EV1’s cutting-edge technology and futuristic design also sparked interest among consumers and the industry, providing insights into the potential breakthroughs in electric mobility.
The EV1’s Legacy Paved Way For A Lot Of Technologies
GM
Photo of GM EV10’s interior
The GM EV1, despite its short existence, left a lasting legacy in the electric vehicle industry. It challenged preconceived notions about electric vehicles and showcased that they could offer more than just eco-friendly transportation. The EV1 demonstrated impressive performance and futuristic design, breaking barriers and revealing the immense potential of electric mobility. By capturing public attention and generating interest, the EV1 played a crucial role in shifting perceptions and driving the wider acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles. Its technological advancements also set a precedent for subsequent electric vehicle models, driving innovation in battery technology, powertrain efficiency, and regenerative braking. The knowledge gained from developing the EV1’s components propelled the EV industry forward, leading to further breakthroughs in electric vehicle performance and range. The influence of the EV1 extended beyond General Motors, inspiring other automakers to invest in EV research and development, fostering competition, and promoting continuous improvement.
The story of the EV1 also offers valuable lessons for the EV industry. Its discontinuation highlighted the importance of cultivating consumer demand, investing in charging infrastructure, and addressing concerns related to cost and range anxiety. These lessons have guided the industry in making electric vehicles more accessible, convenient, and economically viable. Today, we see the impact of these lessons as EVs gain widespread popularity and automakers strive to create a sustainable transportation future. Thus, the legacy of the EV1 serves as an inspiration for a new generation of electric vehicles from established automakers and startups, symbolizing the pioneering spirit, innovation, and dedication that continue to drive the EV industry forward. The EV1’s influence can be observed in the diverse and rapidly expanding range of electric vehicles today, as well as the ongoing efforts to improve charging infrastructure and battery technology in the pursuit of a sustainable transportation future.
Although General Motors is not entirely abandoning internal combustion, their early commitment to environmentally friendly transportation made significant progress with the introduction of the iconic GM EV1 nearly thirty years ago. This initiative propelled the electro-mobility aspect of the automobile industry toward discovering innovative measures for more environmentally friendly vehicles worldwide. Despite its premature termination, the GM EV1 taught valuable lessons that continue to impact the way corporations view green technologies today. As we move towards a more sustainable future, we must acknowledge the trailblazing contributions of vehicles like the GM EV1, which have sparked innovation and propelled the industry forward.
Motorcycles have developed from being only a technique of transport to being enjoyable, way of life machines that serve completely different functions. And in relation to way of life bikes, journey bikes have created a distinct segment marketplace for themselves. They are constructed to tackle tough terrain and are a well-liked alternative with fanatics who like to discover the uncharted lands. KTM is one bike producer who appears to have understood this fanatic and his wants very effectively. The Austrian producer has a slew of journey bikes and the brand new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure is undeniably among the best journey bikes available on the market in the present day, particularly in case you are searching for a sub-1000 cc adventure touring motorcycle on a budget.
The newest iteration of the KTM 790 Adventure brings the efficiency and flexibility of the unique 2018 KTM 790 Adventure however has been reworked and redesigned for the 2023 mannequin yr. The modifications are fairly important and embody an all-new rally impressed bodywork and a brand new refined chassis. The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure additionally brings revamped suspension, a brand-new set of tires and a bunch of digital options which assist enhance dealing with and stability, making it the most effective twin floor bike in its section.
The new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure now comes with a EURO5 emissions score
One of the primary issues we think about earlier than shopping for a bike is its efficiency. And the brand new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure packs some critical energy. Inheriting the identical 799 cc parallel-twin engine from its predecessor (the 2018 KTM 790 Adventure), the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure churns out 93.8 horsepower and 64.1 pound-feet of torque. These figures are among the greatest within the middleweight journey bike section. In reality, no different sub-800 cc bike can match the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure’s energy and torque numbers which come seriously close to the 888 cc Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. And these numbers aren’t simply there to make the spec sheet look good, they really ship. However, what makes the 2023 mannequin yr 790 Adventure much more particular is that it’s now EURO 5 compliant, which means that it’s now greener and eligible on the market in additional markets than earlier than. There’s additionally a reworked clutch and new clutch discs for smoother shifting and to not point out it comes with Quickshifter+ which helps you to upshift and downshift without needing to pull the clutch lever. The six-speed guide transmission turns out to be useful throughout lengthy rides. And simply in case you’re questioning, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure can attain a high velocity of 140 mph.
2The Styling
KTM
The new 2023 KTM 790 Adventure options rally-inspired bodywork and in-mold graphics
Performance apart, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure incorporates a new rally impressed bodywork which makes it look extra rugged and adventurous than earlier than whereas providing higher agility and low-drag penetration. It additionally sports activities a closely reworked entrance finish that includes twin side-by-side headlights, full with LED DRLs, which mixed with the high-mounted LED blinkers and LED headlight, give the bike true ready-to-race seems to be whereas providing superior visibility at evening. It additionally sports activities a taller windshield that not solely provides to the journey tourer seems to be however protects the rider from mud and wind. The massive aerodynamically designed anti-buffer vent on the windshield attracts air in behind the glass to cut back vacuum and even out the airflow towards the rider’s helmet. The 790 Adventure additionally sports activities in-mold graphics which can be molded into the panels and never stickered, which provides to the end and sturdiness of the bike. And lastly, KTM couldn’t have gone flawed with the 2 hanging coloration methods – a new white with orange graphics and a black option.
The New 2023 KTM 790 Adventure has a light-weight but robust Chrome Molybdenum Steel body
Adventure bikes take numerous assault. That is why they should have a robust chassis to tackle no matter floor you throw at them. KTM has accomplished a implausible job with the brand new 790 Adventure’s body. The 2023 790 Adventure makes use of a tubular, powder-coated Chrome-Molybdenum-Steel body that’s each light-weight and powerful, and it has been tuned to a 25.9-degree angle of rake for added power and rigidity. What’s extra, the engine acts as a confused member to cut back a pleasant chunk of the framing and the burden related to it. This intelligent engineering helps the KTM 790 Adventure obtain its gentle dealing with and contributes to a dry weight of simply 199 Kg (438.7 lbs.), making it simply 60 lbs heavier than its smaller sibling the entry-level KTM 390 Adventure. But in the event you thought this was a compromise, there’s a brand new engine protector that provides to the general power of the chassis and presents just a little extra peace of thoughts whereas out on the path.
4Improved Ergonomics
KTM
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure sports activities a redesigned entrance finish with taller windshield
Like all journey bikes, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure is a tall bike. The parallel-twin powerplant sits 233 mm (9.2 inches) above the bottom which is an honest floor clearance to deal with most rocks and boulders with out scraping the bike’s underbelly. However, with this type of floor clearance you’d count on to take a seat larger on the KTM 790 Adventure, however its seat top of 840 mm (33.1 inches) isn’t going to be a difficulty for many riders. The tank spoilers and rear aspect panels are barely wider than the seat, making it simpler to hit the lengthy street to nowhere, whereas the slim gasoline tank and foot peg place permits riders tall and quick to take a seat or stand comfortably for exact dealing with and improved rider motion. You get a break up seat as normal, however there’s an possibility for a single-piece rally seat together with different seat choices for extra adventurous offroading.
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure will get an all-new 5-inch TFT show
KTM has accomplished loads of enhancements to the brand new 790 Adventure’s already superior electronics package deal for the MY23 mannequin. The 2023 790 Adventure boasts a brand new 5-inch TFT show which bundles the instrumentation and electronics management into one location. The menu system has been redesigned to supply improved performance with every perform illustrated by an infographic of the bike to make it extra visually partaking so that you can make changes. Apart from the rider electronics, the brand new 5-inch show comes outfitted to ship music, turn-by-turn navigation and the power to take incoming cellphone calls with connectivity offered by the KTMconnect app via Bluetooth. It even comes with roadside help do you have to want it.
6New Suspension Setup And Tires
KTM
KTM has improved the suspension setup on the 2023 790 Adventure
To qualify as an journey bike, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure wants to supply superior suspension and a some significantly good rubber. And this it does. With its spectacular suspension setup each on the entrance and rear mixed with the in depth suite of rider electronics options, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents unwavering stability and traction on each floor. It will get a brand new suspension setup on the entrance with the 43 mm WP APEX forks (non-adjustable) and a WP APEX Monoshock on the rear with preload adjustability. Both these shockers provide 200 mm (7.87 inches) journey that ought to simply absorb some critical craters. As for the tires, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure comes fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR that are among the best tires for journey bikes. These tires include massive tread blocks for conquering tough offroad tracks and trails, very best for riders searching for sturdiness, dealing with and mileage.
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents an Off-Road ABS mode and KTM MTC
Brakes are an essential a part of each bike, extra so when it’s an journey bike. And the newest KTM 790 Adventure presents some critical stopping energy. The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure comes outfitted with twin 320 mm discs with twin radially-mounted four-piston calipers on the entrance wheel and a 260 mm disc with two-piston floating caliper out on the again. Both these brakes provide sufficient chew to deliver the bike to a standstill in a matter of seconds but when this setup doesn’t sound too reassuring, the ABS characteristic comes with an Off-Road Mode which you’ll dial in if you exit to beat new terrains. More on that within the subsequent part.
8Rider Aids
KTM
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure presents a bunch of rider aids to make the trip safer
KTM knew you may be throwing the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure on all sorts of terrain, so it outfitted its newest journey bike with all of the essential riders aids to maintain you secure and improve the general driving expertise. ABS comes normal and is built-in into all three default driving modes – Rain, Street and Off-Road. The 790 Adventure additionally options KTM’s newest Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) expertise which makes use of a sophisticated 6D inertial measurement unit to enhance traction. This 6D sensor continuously displays and evaluates the dynamic state of the bike to boost security and stability throughout braking and cornering. The new Cornering Traction Control characteristic lets you use full braking energy mid-corner, thus enhancing cornering traction. Simply put, these rider aids make the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure a great adventure motorcycle for beginners.
The manufacturing unit put in Demo characteristic lets riders preview all of the electronics extras earlier than selecting to maintain them
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventures comes pre-installed with a “Demo” characteristic straight out of the manufacturing unit. Although it might appear a bit gimmicky, this nifty characteristic lets you preview all of the digital driving extras until you hit 1,500 km (932 miles) on the odometer earlier than making a call whether or not to pay to maintain these extras. Of course, the Demo mode has its execs and cons relying on the way you take a look at it. It’s at all times good to have a trial interval earlier than deciding to purchase one thing, however… By letting you get the most effective out of your 790 Adventure for a sure time, or distance on this case, it kinda ruins your future expertise with the bike in the event you select to not preserve any of the additional options after the trial ends.
10Fuel Capacity
KTM
The 5.2-gallon gasoline tank of the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure ensures riders additional
When you’re heading out for an journey or touring an extended distance on a motorcycle, a big gasoline tank is at all times good to have. And whereas touring bikes have enormous gasoline tank capacities, the 2023 KTM Adventure’s beneficiant 5.2-gallon gasoline tank ensures that you just don’t must make these frequent stops on the gasoline station and waste your time for a refill, particularly if you’re out in areas the place there aren’t any gasoline stations for miles. Plus, the 790 Adventure’s newly attained EURO5 compliance ought to lead to higher gasoline effectivity than earlier than. And if that does not sound too interesting, the knock sensors fitted to the engine that make sure you gained’t have any downside operating your 2023 KTM 790 Adventure with low octane fuels, very best for driving in areas with restricted gasoline choices.
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