After purchasing the first Flowmaster V7 Automotive licence in late 2007, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has employed the software tool in its R&D. Flowmaster, which is an industry dedicated fluid and thermal system simulation software tool, was selected after rigorous evaluation as part of ARAI’s overall R&D, Testing and Certification strategy. 

Built on the Flowmaster V7 platform, V7 Automotive combines the same proven architecture and GUI with specific automotive component libraries and advanced automotive systems modelling functionality. Flowmaster’s architecture allows users to integrate with existing design and manufacturing systems and co-simulate with other leading CAE/CFD tools. 

ARAI is supported by Aetos Design & Engineering, the exclusive distributor of Flowmaster in India. Aetos’s Design and Engineering Services Division has a dedicated team of Design Engineers providing technically focused services to OEM and tier one companies, from concept design to manufacturing using best in class CAD/CAM and CAE solutions.

Tata Motors has introduced a new range of coach chassis called Super Milo. Aimed at delivering superior operating economy, the Super Milo range is available in two variants -- City and Highway -- each with customised parameters calibrated for their individual applications. 

Powered by the BS II complaint 697 TCIC 130hp engine, the Super Milo range offers 8 to 10 per cent better efficiency and a comfortable ride. Coming with an engine warranty of 2 years or 2 lakh kilometres (whichever is earlier), and a chassis warranty of 1.5 years or 1.5 lakh kilometres (whichever is earlier), the Super Milo range features radial tyres, organic clutch with booster assist, bigger air intake and a oil change period of 18,000 km for city and 36,000 km for highway.

Jost India, a group company of Jost, which is a worldwide manufacturer of components for truck and trailer, and especially fifth wheel couplings, has commissioned its new facility at Jamshedpur. Supplier to commercial vehicle manufacturers in India and prominently Tata Motors, the plant will manufacture fifth wheel couplings, a crucial component that connects the trailer with the prime mover. 

Housing state-of-the-art equipment, machining centres and a assembly line, the plant, spread over 60,000 sq. m, was built in a very short span of time and includes an E-coat line to ensure that the products are permanently and dependably protected from corrosion. The E-coat line is absolutely solvent-free and health and environmentally friendly. Interestingly, a large chunk of the fifth wheel couplings produced at Jamshedpur would be supplied to Tata, according to sources, as Jost India already has a long-term agreement for the delivery of fifth wheel couplings. 

While the Indian facility will concentrate on the Indian market, in addition to fifth wheel couplings, Jost India has been offering various other components like landing gears, safety towing hitches, etc., for some time now. Sources at Jost India anticipate the number of prime mover-trailer sales to go up several hundred per cent by 2012 or up to over 200,000 units annually.

The launch of the Logan Edge marks the beginning of special editions for Mahindra Renault. The car brings with it innovative features that elevate luxury. Attractively priced, the Logan Edge comes in petrol and diesel versions, new interesting colours, beige leather seat covers, a wood-finish centre console and a high-end Kenwood music system with remote control and USB/ iPod connectivity, reverse parking sensors, ABS and EBD.

UK-based automotive engineering major Renold Plc has acquired a 75 per cent stake in the industrial chain business of Coimbatore-based auto parts maker, LG Balakrishnan & Bros (LGB). The remaining 25 per cent stake would be retained by LGB. LGB would provide an established manufacturing base and sales distribution network. The products manufactured in India through the JV is expected to be sold in about 90 countries. Renold and its group companies are expected to outsource products from the parent company.

Ficosa International and Omron Corporation of Japan have agreed to form a joint venture dedicated to the development, production and commercialisation of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) technology for the global automotive sector. 

The 50-50 joint venture will combine the experience of both companies in the field of ADAS functions and technology. The new company will be headquartered in Germany, with a subsidiary in Spain.

Fiat has launched the cute little Fiat 500 in India. A CBU import, the car is powered by the 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engine, which is also seen on the Palio and is priced at Rs. 14, 82, 500 (ex-showroom Delhi).