Tag: Car company

  • How does Zoomcar make money? | Zoomcar Business Model

    Zoomcar is India’s first self-drive rental company. The concept of enjoying a car drive without actually buying a car was fascinating for Indians.

    Today, Zoomcar has over 10,000 cars in the fleet. It has a market share of 60% and has gained massive popularity. The company has 91,00,000+ happy users.

    But, how did this company grow so much over the years? To find an answer to this question let’s understand the business model of Zoomcar in detail.

    What is Zoomcar?
    Operating Model and Key Products and Services of Zoomcar
    Target Audience of Zoomcar
    Business Model of Zoomcar
    What is Unique about Zoomcar’s Business Model
    Zoomcar Revenue Model
    FAQ

    What is Zoomcar?

    For the people who are living under a rock, using Zoomcar you can rent a car on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis.

    It was founded in 2013 by Greg Moran and David Back. The company is headquartered in Bangalore and currently operates in 45 cities. The tagline of this company is Never Stop Living.

    Operating Model and Key Products and Services of Zoomcar

    To book a car using Zoomcar you first need to be a Zoomcar member.

    You also should be 18 years or above. You must have a valid Light Motor Vehicle (Non-Transport) Indian license.

    If you are an NRI then you should have an international driver’s license. In the past seven years, you shouldn’t have any kind of alcohol or drug-related driving violations.

    Target Audience of Zoomcar

    The target audience of Zoomcar is mainly middle-class people between 18-35. They are targeting the people who travel a lot.

    If we dive deeper they target teenagers and businessmen. Many young YouTubers have promoted Zoomcar. As we know teenagers follow YouTubers which helped the company to grab a lot of young individuals.


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    Business Model of Zoomcar

    Zoomcar follows a business model where it buys 75% of the cars on loans from the bank. The remaining are bought on lease from big companies like Avis Budget Group. Now, let’s understand other core elements of their business model.

    1. Partnerships:

    Zoomcar has tied up with various companies to include more cars on their website and to make profits. One of the major partnerships includes Ford & Mahindra.

    This helped them become the first rental company in India to offer electric cars (Mahindra REVA E2O and Ford’s REVA E2O) for rent.

    They have also smartly tied up with Tata Motors. This helped them to add 50 brand new Tata Nanos. To secure parking and pick-up points they have tied up with several hotels, universities, and real estate developers.

    Zoomcar has also partnered with Nissan for a vehicle subscription programme. Customers can subscribe to Nissan Magnite and Nissan Kicks.

    In November 2013 they also launched a month-long campaign named RideSmartBLR to spread awareness about drunk driving. This campaign was launched in partnership with Uber and the Ashoka Foundation.

    2. Additional Benefits:

    Apart from rental services they also give additional benefits which make them a better option. They are as follows:

    • Mostly the vehicles available on Zoomcar have all India permits.
    • All the vehicles are strategically placed so that customers can pick up the vehicle conveniently.
    • If you want you can also get doorstep delivery of the vehicle.
    • Rates available on Zoomcar have free fuel, taxes, and insurance.
    • Their call centers are open 24/7 to help customers solve their queries.

    What is Unique about Zoomcar’s Business Model

    Today, if I tell you to rent a car you would immediately open Zoomcar’s website or app. This shows how much popularity they have gained in these years.

    But, apart from them, other companies like Drivezy, SelfDrive, U-Drive, Letmedrive, Carzonrent, and LeasePlan offer similar services.

    Why they are not so popular? You might have not heard the names of some companies mentioned above. Let’s understand what unique things Zoomcar did which helped them to reach such heights.

    1. Performance Marketing and CRM:

    Zoomcar’s marketing strategy is majority focused on performance marketing. This means that the company pay the marketing companies only when a specific task is completed like sales or getting leads or clicks.

    The company uses the customer relationship managing (CRM) team to increase repeat transactions.

    2. Out of the box Marketing:

    Zoomcar has taken a lot of effort to make sure everyone knows about their company. What is the best way to tell people about your company? The answer is the internet.

    Zoomcar used the internet smartly to grow its customer base organically. The company advertises its logo and name on the cars that they provide.

    Apart from the people who are using the car, others also get to know about the company’s presence.

    Zoomcar logo on its Cars
    Zoomcar logo on its Cars

    Their collaboration with FilterCopy, a YouTube Channel helped them gain popularity among the youth.

    If you search #zoomcar on Instagram you will see a lot of high-quality images of people using the car and sharing their experiences.

    Zoomcar Instagram
    Zoomcar Instagram

    Their exceptional services made the people happy. As you know a satisfied customer does a good job of spreading awareness about the company.


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    Zoomcar Revenue Model

    Zoomcar’s business and revenue model are straightforward. They rent you a car according to your preferences and earn money out of it.

    In the financial year 2017-18, their revenue was $19 Million. But, the company was at a loss as its revenue was less than its expenses. To tackle this they launched ZAP Subscribe.

    ZAP Subscribe:

    This is an interesting program launched by Zoomcar which helps them to make profits. ZAP Subscribe is actually an extension of the previously launched ZAP Program.

    Using this program individuals can subscribe to a new car on monthly basis. You can subscribe to a car from Rs 16,000 to Rs 50,000, depending on the car size.

    This will help you to save the subscription fee. The subscription comes up with tenures of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months.

    Conclusion

    Zoomcar needs to give more benefits to its customers to be in this race for a long time. Their aim, for now, is to grow their business in other parts of the country. They have to give more reasons to their customers to subscribe to a car instead of buying one.

    FAQ

    When was Zoomcar founded?

    Zoomcar was founded in April 2012 by Greg Morgan and David Back.

    What is the revenue of Zoomcar?

    In  FY21, the startup’s total revenue stood at INR 103.6 Cr as against the INR 293.7 Cr it recorded in FY20

    Who is the target audience of Zoomcar?

    The target audience of Zoomcar is mainly middle-class people between 18-35.

    What is the market share of Zoomcar?

    Zoomcar has a market share of 60%.

  • Bugatti – Manufacturer of Fastest Cars in the World

    Company Profile is an initiative by StartupTalky to publish verified information on different startups and organizations. The content in this post has been approved by Bugatti.

    We have all grown up seeing pictures of various luxury cars. We have admired them, fascinated them and wished to own them someday. They are not such easy-buy vehicles. The price they come at is not affordable for the majority of our country’s population. This is one of the main reasons that we are unable to locate any of such premium brand cars on our roads. Another primary reason is the infrastructure facilities in our country.

    Certain brands like Rolls-Royce, Audi, Benz, BMW, etc. are being designed suitably for the Indian market. But some premium car models and brands are either not affordable or banned from running on Indian roads. One such premium luxury car brand is Bugatti.

    Though Bugatti’s presence in the Indian market is minimal or almost nil, the company’s cars are popular in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Bugatti has more than a century-long history that dates back to the early 1900s. This article covers the complete story of Bugatti right from even before its inception in 1909, its growth, change of ownership, competition and its current status in the world market.

    Bugatti – Company Highlights

    Company Name Bugatti
    Headquarters Molsheim, France
    Industry Automotive
    Founded 1909
    Founder Ettore Bugatti
    CEO Mate Rimac
    Owner Volkswagen (1998-2021), Rimac Automobili (2021-Present)
    Website bugatti.com

    Bugatti – About
    Bugatti – Industry
    Bugatti – Founder and Team
    Bugatti – Startup Story
    Bugatti – Name and Logo
    Bugatti – Challenges Faced
    Bugatti – Mergers and Demergers
    Bugatti – Growth and Timeline
    Bugatti – Competitors
    Bugatti – Future Plans

    Story of Bugatti

    Bugatti – About

    Bugatti is a luxury car manufacturer that was established in 1909 in Molsheim, France. The artistic designs and engineering of automobiles are what Bugatti is known for. Besides, it is also well-known for its sports cars. These cars were extraordinarily well-performing and gained a reputation as one of the most successful racing car brands in the world.

    The Bugatti Type 35 model held the crown in the sports car category in the mid-1920s. The Bugatti Veyron model, which gained huge popularity in the early 2000s, remained the fastest car in the world with a speed of 410 kmph for many years. Bugatti is extremely focused on its design and speed which remains uncompromisable for anything.

    Bugatti – Industry

    The automotive industry involves the manufacturing and marketing of engines, motor vehicles and other related components. It is highly competitive and is one of the largest industries in the world in terms of revenue. As per the statistical reports, China has always led the automotive industry in production and distribution. This industry was on consistent growth in the pre-covid era. In 2017, automobile sales were at a peak and a total of 80 million units were sold during the year. But, the Covid pandemic has stumbled the industry, including China, and is now slowly recovering from its fall.

    Bugatti – Founder and Team

    Bugatti has been under various leaderships over its 113 years of existence. There have been several people who played a significant role in the growth of the company. The following are the founder and a few other key people of Bugatti during its early stages and present times:

    Ettore Bugatti

    Ettore Bugatti - Founder of Bugatti
    Ettore Bugatti – Founder of Bugatti

    Ettore Bugatti was an automobile Engineer and the founder of Bugatti. Ettore Arco Isidoro Bugatti is his full name and was born on 15 September 1881, in Milan, Italy. His interest in automobile designing and engineering came from his father who was a designer himself in the field of jewelry and furniture and his grandfather who happened to be an architect and a sculptor. He started building prototypes for automobiles right from his late teens and finally established the brand Bugatti in 1909. Ettore Bugatti passed away in August 1947 in France.

    Jean Bugatti

    Jean Bugatti is the eldest son of Ettore Bugatti and was born in Cologne on 15th January 1909. It was the year of the establishment of Bugatti and the family moved to Molsheim soon after he was born. He naturally got imbibed into the company. Jean served as the test engineer and designer for most of Bugatti’s cars between 1926 and 1939. He created some exceptional designs along with his father and laid a fantastic pathway for the company’s growth. Jean Bugatti died in August 1939 in an accident that occurred while test driving one of the automobile prototypes.

    Stephan Winkelmann

    Stephan Winklemann was the CEO of Bugatti automobiles, between 2018 and 2021, when the company remained a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group. He was born in 1964 and is a graduate of Political Science. Winklemann started his career as a sales representative of Mercedes Benz and worked in a couple of automobile companies in higher positions. His experience and knowledge in the automobile sector made him the President and CEO of Lamborghini in 2005. He served this position for 11 years before becoming the CEO of Audi in 2016. Stephan Winklemann was again made the Chairman and CEO of Lamborghini in 2020.

    Mate Rimac

    Mate Rimac is a young entrepreneur from Croatia who is the founder of an electric sports car company named Rimac Automobili. His entrepreneurial and innovative skills attracted many big companies like Porsche, Camel Group, Hyundai, etc. to invest in his company. He recently made an affiliation between his company and Porsche to bring in Bugatti under their joint venture Bugatti Rimac. Mate Rimac is currently the CEO of this new company.


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    Bugatti – Startup Story

    The seed for Bugatti automobiles was sown with the birth of Ettore Bugatti in 1881. His artistic family background engulfed him in the areas of designing and engineering. As a result, Ettore entered an apprenticeship program in a bicycle company named, Prinetti & Stucchi in 1898. He was captivated by the technology and engineering behind motors. This encouraged him to develop a motor tricycle and even participate in some races with those developments.

    Then, Ettore Bugatti started making cars and exhibited them at the Milan International Exhibition in 1901. He won an award for his Type 2 Model which he joined hands with the Gulinelli brothers to make it. But the rights to manufacture the model were lost due to the death of one of the Gulinelli brothers and Ettore was too young to sign a deal. Later, he gained his way into the firm that earlier got the rights for manufacturing Ettore’s cars in 1902. Since he was underage, all the agreements were signed by Ettore’s father Carlo Bugatti.

    Ettore later designed cars for various manufacturers in the next few years and finally decided to start his own company in 1909. As a result, Bugatti Automobiles was born in 1909 with the support of Pierre de Vizcaya and Darmstadter Bank. The company’s first project was to manufacture five airplane engines and ten cars.

    Bugatti Logo
    Bugatti Logo

    The name ‘Bugatti’ was derived from the name of its founder Ettore Bugatti. It is the surname of the family. The logo of Bugatti comes in a red oval with ‘BUGATTI’ written in the middle. This oval is surrounded by a white outline that comprises 60 red dots in it. This logo was designed by Ettore’s father Carlo Bugatti who is a jewelry designer. The logo itself looks like a fine jewel. It also carries the symbol ‘EB’ with an inverted E that represents Ettore Bugatti.

    Bugatti – Challenges Faced

    The following are the challenges faced by Bugatti over the years:

    1. The first major challenge faced by Bugatti after WW1 was a labor strike in 1936. Ettore Bugatti always used to take good care of his employees and hence, he considered this labor strike a personal insult. The issue was resolved but Ettore started distancing himself from the workers and the Molsheim factory.
    2. The next big hit happened in 1939. Jean Bugatti, who played a key role in the company, was killed in an accident during a test drive. The entire company was stunned by his death as there was none left to take the company forward after Ettore. To make this worse, WW2 began a few days later and Bugatti was forced to be sold to an entrepreneur from Germany by the government. Bugatti automobiles were never the same after the above two incidents.
    3. Even after the war, when Ettore Bugatti got the company back, he couldn’t re-establish the business due to insufficient funds. The issues made his health deteriorate and he died in August 1947.
    4. The appointed Managing Director took over the company after Ettore but couldn’t run it efficiently. As a result, the production of Bugatti came to a halt in 1956.
    5. Later, the company was taken over by a Spanish automobile maker. Even then, Bugatti was forced to cease its operation in 1995 due to unsaid reasons and later was acquired by Volkswagen in 1998.

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    Bugatti – Mergers and Demergers

    Bugatti Automobiles went through different management and mergers over the years. The first of those came in 1948, right after the death of Ettore Bugatti. Ettore’s heirs appointed Pierre Marco as the Managing Director of Bugatti. But, within three years, another son of Ettore, Roland Bugatti, took over the management.

    In 1963, a Spanish-based automobile manufacturer Hispano-Suiza purchased the company. It was later renamed as Messier-Bugatti and continued production.

    Romano Artioli, a car dealer and entrepreneur, acquired the rights for the trademark of Bugatti in 1987 and operated it under the name ‘Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. But this company ceased operations in 1995 and the rights for the production of the sports car EB 110 were acquired by Dauer Racing GmbH.

    Finally, in 1998, Volkswagen purchased Bugatti and brought it under its portfolio. It was then the company launched some of its successful models like Veyron, Chiron and Divo. But Bugatti left Volkswagen in November 2021 to join hands with Rimac Automobili and Porsche to form a new company ‘Bugatti Rimac’. Rimac controls 55% of the shares while Porsche has the rest in this new venture. All its future operations are expected to happen under this new management.

    Bugatti – Growth and Timeline

    Bugatti Growth | Number of Deliveries of Bugatti Cars
    Number of Deliveries of Bugatti Cars | Bugatti Growth

    Though the company was established only in 1909, Ettore Bugatti entered the industry in 1901 with the Type 2 model. He later built the first race car, Type 5, in 1903 which was a chain-driven model with a tubular chassis frame. Ettore started making advanced modeled cars from the previous versions for Mathis and Deutz in 1905 and 1907 respectively. Then came the birth of his own brand Bugatti in 1909 in Molsheim, France.

    As the years passed, Bugatti came up with new and advanced models of cars at regular intervals. The company kept innovating and enhancing its automobiles and took part in various international motor car races. In 1913, Peugeot Bebe, a four-cylinder car was launched by Bugatti that reached a top speed of 60 kmph. It is one of the largest produced cars by the company in terms of units at that time. It was followed by ‘Type 13 Brescia’ which remained successful until 1926.

    By 1915, Bugatti started manufacturing airplane engines as a result of the First World War. The company broke and created many records in various Grand Prix races in the next couple of decades. With the launch of every new model, there came some enhancement and advanced technological inducement in the vehicles.

    1926 marked the dream-come-true moment for Bugatti when it launched its first most luxurious car named ‘Royale’. The company then entered the manufacture of high-speed trains and launched its prototype in 1932. The trial run was made by Jean Bugatti and a record was created at a speed of 166 kmph.

    Beginning in 1939 Bugatti faced a series of struggles and changes in management until the end of the 20th century. Except for some race victories and a few models the company faced a severe downfall. It was only in 2001, after the launch of the Bugatti Veyron prototype, that the brand started regaining its image. It refurbished its head office in Molsheim, renamed it ‘The Atelier’ and started manufacturing Veyrons. It turned out to be the fastest car in the world. Now, ‘Bugatti Chiron’ is the most popular, fastest and most successful model of the company.

    Despite the struggles Bugatti faced after WW2, it has never lost its brand reputation. The company has always stuck to its quality, design, innovation and speed under any circumstance. They have played a major role in Bugatti’s growth and will continue its streak in its new joint venture ‘Bugatti Rimac’.

    Bugatti – Competitors

    There are many premium and elegant car manufacturers in the market around the world. Therefore, there is plenty of competition available for Bugatti. Here are some of the top competitors of the company:

    Maserati

    Maserati is a luxury automobile manufacturer based in Modena, Italy. This company is known for its reliability, luxury and speed. Maserati was started in 1914 during the beginning of WW1. It was earlier a subsidiary of Ferrari and is currently owned by Stellantis since 2021. Ghibli and Alfieri are some of the popular models produced by Maserati.

    Ferrari

    Ferrari is another company based in Italy that was established in 1947. It manufactures luxury road and sports cars that have a fantastic brand reputation from the people. Ferrari manufactures elegant and expensive cars that have taken part in and won various racing events like Formula One.

    Rolls-Royce

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a subsidiary of BMW that manufactures extreme luxury road cars. The company is based in the UK and has a history that dates back to 1906. Rolls-Royce Ghost and Phantom series cars are very popular and are known for their astounding looks and sophisticated experience.

    Bugatti – Future Plans

    Since Rimac is a manufacturer of electric vehicles, Bugatti Rimac is on a path towards electric and hybrid cars. The CEO Mate Rimac announced that the successor of Bugatti Chiron would be all-electric. He also said that the company is into the production of Bugatti Bolide which might be released later in 2022. A teasing image describing all the above announcements was released by the company. Since it is a newly formed venture, its long-term plans and goals related to various aspects of the business are yet to be announced.

    FAQs

    When was Bugatti founded?

    Bugatti was founded in 1909 in Molsheim, France.

    Who is the owner of Bugatti?

    Rimac Automobili is the owner of Bugatti.

    Who is the founder of Bugatti?

    Ettore Bugatti is the founder of Bugatti.

    What are the top models of Bugatti?

    Top models of Bugatti are:

    • Bugatti Chiron
    • Bugatti Veyron
    • Bugatti La Voiture Noire
    • Bugatti Divo
    • Bugatti Centodieci

    Who are the top competitors of Bugatti?

    Top competitors of Bugatti are:

    • Maserati
    • Ferrari
    • Rolls-Royce

    What is the revenue of Bugatti?

    Revenue for Bugatti is estimated to reach $89.79 million in 2022.

  • The Journey of Volkswagen Polo: How it Became the World’s Most Loved Hatchback Car?

    One of the most timeless and iconic cars from the Volkswagen portfolio, the stylish Polo hatchback has completed over a decade in a fierce, competition-packed segment. Over the past ten years, this hatchback has set a higher than usual benchmark in safety. With a Global NCAP crash rating of 4-stars, the hatchback was one of the first and most-loved cars in the Indian market to offer airbags and ABS as standard in all its cars across all trim levels.

    Volkswagen Polo has come a long way to becoming peoples’ favorite and loved hatchback. Since its launch, it has also appealed to an incredibly diverse audience by providing as many as eight engine options. Let’s look at its cherished history to understand how the vehicle started on its journey.

    Volkswagen Polo’s History
    What Made Volkswagen Polo World’s Most Favorite Hatchback?

    Volkswagen Polo Features

    Volkswagen Polo’s History

    Volkswagen Polo
    Volkswagen Polo

    Volkswagen Polo is among the best hatchbacks available today. This fun-to-drive car has sold over 14 million units to date. The most well-known Polo ever seen on roadways was Polo Mk 2, produced between 1981 and 1994. Over 2.7 million units of this beast model were sold globally. MK2 was available in three distinct body styles: a 3-door hatchback, a sedan with a 2-door known as the Polo Classic, and a 3-door hatchback.

    The first Polo, the 5th generation model, debuted in 2010 and was given an update in 2012. Then, in 2013, GT models of the Polo were released along with the Cross Polo. The Cross Polo was a rugged version of the Polo powered by 1.2-liter petrol and diesel engines. It later received the 1.5-liter diesel engine.

    The GT versions were a completely different ball game. There’s a 1.2-liter GT TSI petrol model with 105 horsepower and connected to a seven-speed DSG gearbox. The 1.5-liter GT TDI was a delight too. It’s safe to claim that GT models were among the initial hot hatches to be able to operate on Indian roads.

    Then in 2014, Volkswagen added the 1.5-liter TDI engine to the refreshed Polo. Fast forward to 2017, the engine came to India. In a surprising decision, Volkswagen launched the monster of a vehicle named the Polo GTI. Polo GTI equipped with a 1.8L TSI engine produces the power of 192 PS and is coupled to a DSG gearbox.

    Polo isn’t only a car that can transport people. Volkswagen’s Motorsports division has used its performance to the fullest extent. Polo has been part of Volkswagen’s Motorsports division since its beginning in 2010. Polo has also been a participant in the Indian National rally championship and has won the POLO WRC award three times from 2013 until 2016.


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    What Made Volkswagen Polo World’s Most Favorite Hatchback?

    The journey of Volkswagen Polo shared above must have given a hint behind its success, but there’s a lot behind it. To help people understand its growth journey, we’ve listed the reasons behind its success. So let’s look at the factors or reasons behind its growth.

    Impeccable Safety Features

    One of the most striking and appealing advantages of having Volkswagen is its commitment to security. Volkswagen Polo is one of the most secure hatchbacks available. It has an NCAP rating of four stars, which isn’t attainable by all contemporary hatchbacks. Equipped with the latest in occupant safety, the vehicle includes two airbags for passenger and driver anti-lock brake Systems (ABS) and an electronic Anti-theft immobilizer.

    Classic and Timeless Design

    Volkswagen Polo will never disappoint you if the appearance of a car matters the most to you. The Polo is among the very few hatchbacks made in India that has improved in appearance over time. This Volkswagen Polo sported a clean and swept-back headlamp design. The headlamps opposite side were a horizontal grille, with the triple chrome slat pattern highlighted by a massive Volkswagen logo in the middle.

    The design of the Volkswagen Polo features minimal creases and body lines that give the Polo a muscular appearance. From the sides, the Polo did a great job by imparting a look identical to a rugged machine that has elevated suspension and higher floor clearances of 168 millimeters. Volkswagen equipped the Polo with sporty alloy wheels to create a more aggressive design.

    Big on Space

    The Polo was among India’s top compact hatchbacks when it first came out. In the face of competition, one aspect that made Polo more comfortable was its spacious cabin and a slack stance. With a wheelbase of 2456 millimeters in its first years and then increasing to 2470 mm with the facelifts, the Polo is larger than many competitors.

    With the broader diameter of its wheelbase, Polo also allowed for comfortable seating for passengers in the front and rear ends. As a well-constructed and spacious hatchback that is spacious and well-built, this Polo is ideal for many first-time car buyers.

    Durable Construction Quality

    Another thing that makes the Volkswagen Polo a competent, compact hatchback is its sturdy build quality. When it was first introduced in the market, it was known that the Polo was built on the same platform that was used to make the Audi A1 back then, which itself is a testimony to the excellent build quality of the Polo. It is built using an elegant German design.

    A Wide Variety of Efficient Engines

    One factor that makes Volkswagen Polo a vehicle worth purchasing is its diverse engine options. In its initial years, Polo was available with the 1.2-liter gasoline engine, mated with a five-speed manual that returned 16.47 kmpl. The diesel engine available as a 1.2-liter TDI diesel engine mated to a manual five-speed that produced 22.08 kilometers per liter of fuel. In the second quarter of 2010, the Volkswagen Polo was released with a 1.6-liter petrol engine, much more potent than the previous engine.

    In 2013 the Polo received a 1.2-liter turbocharged TSI engine mated to a seven-speed DSG auto. Volkswagen also gave the vehicle the 1.6-liter TDI diesel engine mated to a five-speed manual and the sports mode in the same year. In 2019 the Polo was subjected to BS6 modifications. It then returned with the 1.0-liter naturally-aspirated petrol engine and a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol TSI engine.


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    Conclusion

    Polo has come a long way in its journey of winning people’s hearts, and for all the right reasons. Be it the engine or safety features, timeless design, or spacious and stylish interiors; many factors have contributed to Polo’s journey to become the world’s best hatchback. In addition to the features, the manufacturer’s efforts in constantly upgrading the vehicle with time contributed massively to Polo’s success. It is not just a hatchback but a dream vehicle for many. Those willing to invest in a safe, stylish, and comfortable car should choose Volkswagen Polo over other hatchbacks.

    FAQs

    Which is the best hatchback car?

    Volkswagen Polo is the most reliable hatchback car in the world. Some other hatchback cars are:

    • Volkswagen Polo
    • Ford Fiesta
    • Ford Focus
    • Volkswagen Golf
    • Mini Cooper
    • Mercedes Benz A-Class
    • Vauxhall Corsa
    • BMW 1-series
    • Vauxhall Astra
    • Audi A3

    When was Volkswagen Polo launched in India?

    Volkswagen Polo was launched in February 2010 in India.

    Which are the top competitors of Volkswagen Polo?

    Top competitors of Volkswagen Polo are:

    • Ford Fiesta
    • Vauxhall Corsa
    • Skoda Fabia
    • Peugeot 208
    • Renault Clio
    • Seat Ibiza
    • Mini 5-door Hatch
    • Dacia Sandero
    • Hyundai i20
    • Toyota Yaris Hybrid

    What is the price of Volkswagen Polo in India?

    Volkswagen Polo price in India ranges between INR 6.49 Lakh and INR 10.25 Lakh.

    How are the Volkswagen Polo sales in India?

    There were 728 Volkswagen Polo sold in May 2022 in India.

  • Rolls-Royce Innovations | Why Rolls-Royce Cars are So Expensive?

    Everyone has their type and preferences when it comes to cars. Cars are something, the interest which is shared by many.

    In the modern days, there are many types of cars available. For Example- Sedan, SUVs, Coupe, Convertible, Hatchback, etc. One of the common interests of people is luxury cars. Some examples of luxury cars include Range Rover, Mercedes, BMW, Rolls-Royce, and more.

    Rolls-Royce is probably the love and dream of many. Having this car is a status symbol but buying one can create a huge hole in the pocket. As Rolls-Royce is considered one of the most expensive cars. Get insights into the reasons why Rolls-Royce cars are so expensive.

    The History of Rolls-Royce
    Rolls-Royce and Its Innovations
    What Makes Rolls-Royce So Expensive?

    The History of Rolls-Royce

    Rolls-Royce Logo
    Rolls-Royce Logo

    Rolls-Royce’s history didn’t begin with the cars. In earlier times, it was an electrical and mechanical business rooted by Henry Royce in 1884.

    In the year 1904, Royce made his first motor car. In the same year, Royce met Charles Rolls. Charles’s company used to sell quality cars in London.

    The collaboration between the two led to the formation of the Rolls-Royce company in 1906. The first launch was the six-cylinder Silver Ghost. In the very first year, it got the status of the best car in the world.

    In 1990, the company formed a joint venture with Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) of Germany the aero engines. BMW got the license of the rights of the name and logo of Rolls-Royce. Since then, BMW is the parent organization of Rolls-Royce.

    Rolls-Royce and Its Innovations

    Rolls-Royce’s innovations are traced back to the time of World War I. During the first world war, air wars were happening. This created a need for strong and sturdy aircraft. So, as a result, Royce came up with his design of the first aircraft engine- The Eagle.

    The ‘R’ Engine

    Rolls-Royce R Engine
    Rolls-Royce R Engine

    In the late 1920s, Rolls-Royce indulged in the development of the ‘R’ engine. These engines were made especially for air racing. In the year 1931, it created a world record of airspeed at 400mph.

    Merlin Engine

    Rolls-Royce Merline Engine
    Rolls-Royce Merline Engine

    Rolls-Royce has also indulged in the development of Merlin engines. Their Merlin engine motorized Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire in the battle of Britain. The demand for Merlin engines increased during the second world war. This demand helped Rolls-Royce earn a position of a strong contender in the aero force from a small company.

    Aero gas Turbine

    Rolls-Royce Aero Gas Turbine
    Rolls-Royce Aero Gas Turbine

    The company has also developed aero gas turbines. They entered the market of civil aviation with Vickers Viscount, the then British aircraft line.

    Trent 1000

    Rolls-Royce Trent 1000
    Rolls-Royce Trent 1000

    Trent 1000 of Rolls-Royce is the only engine suitable for Boeing 787 Dreamliner. In the year 2006, it ran for the first time.

    There are many other engine innovations made by Rolls-Royce. For example Trent 7000, Trent XWB-84, Trent XWB-97, and more.

    At present, Rolls-Royce has a strong deal in five products and services. These are Defence products and services, Civil Aerospace, Power Systems, Electrical, and R2 Data Labs.


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    What Makes Rolls-Royce So Expensive?

    Rolls-Royce is an age-old company that has aged like fine wine. Right from the beginning, it has never failed to develop and deliver the best quality.

    Rolls-Royce cars with their fine and best quality are considered one of the most expensive cars in the world. There are certain reasons which make it so expensive. These are as follows:

    Why Rolls-Royce Car are so Expensive?

    Special Models and Exquisite Features

    One of the most important reasons for the expensiveness of Rolls-Royce is their special car models with exquisite features. The buyers sometimes come up with different ideas to give their Rolls-Royce an exquisite and personalized look.

    For example- Once a buyer requested a car finish that was diamond-studded. Rolls-Royce was keen to take up this challenge. The excellent team of the company crushed many real diamonds. They then mixed these with the color. In this way, with the help of this mix, they added the desired shine to the car.

    The most expensive model of the company now is the Phantom. The pricing of Phantom starts from $450,000.

    Posh Headliners

    The starlight headliner of Rolls-Royce
    The starlight headliner of Rolls-Royce

    The second feature that makes Rolls-Royce super expensive is its headliners. The Rolls-Royce cars come with star-studded headliners. This makes for an exclusive atmosphere for the cars.

    Making these headliners is a super lengthy and effort-borne process. These are created by piercing almost one thousand holes with fiber-optic threads.

    Sometimes, buyers ask for personalization in this feature as well. Since these are star-studded, few prefer to add specific effects of light.

    Exclusive Procedure for Color Coating

    Every car of Rolls-Royce undergoes a special color coating process. The coating process takes a lot of time even before the color selection begins. At last, seven coats of color are used to get the final result.

    This feature is unique and expensive because this too offers the option of customization. Buyers are not limited to selecting from the standard shades of color. They can choose a color as rare as their pet’s color. In such cases, the company makes use of DNA materials to obtain the accurate shade.

    This specific style of color coating is a long process. It requires a great amount of time and effort. Thus, another reason that makes Rolls-Royce cars expensive.

    The Soundproof System

    The best and the most important feature that makes Rolls-Royce cars stand out is its soundproof system. The cars are made with driving mechanisms that are soundproof. About 300 pounds of insulation is added around the cabin while making the cars. This enables the cars to run with no sound at all.

    This feature makes the car’s environment friendly. The soundless rides prevent noise pollution.

    The soundless system adds a luxurious and chic touch to the cars. Thus, making Rolls-Royce expensive.

    A Powerful Identity

    Over the years, the company has been able to create a huge identity for itself in the world. The brand name Rolls-Royce is considered a status symbol for the elite class.

    Rolls-Royce Car Golden Logo
    Rolls-Royce Car Golden Logo

    Almost every billionaire in the world owns a Rolls-Royce car in their luxury car collection. The biggest collection of Rolls-Royce cars is 500 cars. This collection belongs to the Sultan of Brunei. This is the most expensive collection held by a person.

    Rolls-Royce has built a powerful identity for itself in the world. Its identity makes it an associate of luxury. This makes it one of the most expensive in the world.


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    Conclusion

    Rolls-Royce is one word that is exclusive. It makes cars that are one of a kind. The company creates such unique and specific designs for the buyers that if another person wants the same, they have to take the permit from the original buyer.

    The perfect and exclusive blend of the features makes the company stand out. Most importantly it is the luxury and the personalized customization that makes Rolls-Royce expensive.

    FAQs

    Why Rolls-Royce cars are so expensive?

    The prime reason behind the Rolls-Royce cars being expensive is their quality. Another reason can be considered as they are counted among the luxury product that can be custom-made and comes with a number of luxury services. Heseveralst of Rolls-Royce is always expected to be more than the normal range.

    How many Rolls-Royce is in India?

    The exact number for Rolls-Royce in India is still a debatable topic. However, the estimated number is around 25-30 units in India.

    Does Rolls-Royce break down?

    There is one myth surrounding Rolls-Royce that it does not break down. However, in reality, Rolls-Royce can also break down irrespective of the details with which they have been made.

  • Success Story of Rolls-Royce: Innovating Prudent Ways to Power the World

    Company Profile is an initiative by StartupTalky to publish verified information on different startups and organizations. The content in this post has been approved by Rolls-Royce.

    Rolls-Royce is a name that has always gone with luxury. In fact, Rolls-Royce can be used as a term to define luxury. Rolls-Royce refers to Cars, this is what we’ve known so far. But they are more than what we know.

    Rolls-Royce is an engineering company that manufactures Aero-engines and power systems for civil, defence and various other industries. It aims at creating power systems for the future that prove to be the safest and cleanest. On the other hand, Rolls-Royce cars are manufactured independently by the company called Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, which is now a subsidiary of BMW.

    The company has more than a century-long history dating back to 1904. Started as a car manufacturer, then was forced into the defence industry during the world war for making aero-engines, facing a financial collapse in the 1970s thus resulting in government take-over, various mergers, demergers and acquisitions which led them through a lot of ups and downs. Their journey is nothing short of excitement.

    Rolls-Royce – Company Highlights

    Company Name Rolls-Royce
    Headquarters London, England, United Kingdom
    Industry Airspace, Defense, Automotive
    Founders Charles Rolls, Henry Royce
    Founded 1904 (Partnership), 1906 (Company)
    CEO Warren East (Rolls-Royce), Torsten Müller-Ötvös (Rolls-Royce Motor Cars)
    Parent Organisation Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (Rolls-Royce), BMW (Rolls-Royce Motor Cars)
    Website rolls-royce.com

    Rolls-Royce – About
    Rolls-Royce – Latest News
    Rolls-Royce – Founders and Team
    Rolls-Royce – Startup Story
    Rolls-Royce – Mission and Vision
    Rolls-Royce – Name and Logo
    Rolls-Royce – Business and Revenue Model
    Rolls-Royce – Challenges Faced
    Rolls-Royce – Funding and Investors
    Rolls-Royce – Mergers and Acquisitions
    Rolls-Royce – Growth
    Rolls-Royce – Competitors
    Rolls-Royce – Future Plans
    Rolls-Royce – FAQs

    Rolls-Royce Success Story

    Rolls-Royce – About

    Rolls-Royce formally referred to as Rolls-Royce plc, is a company involved in manufacturing propulsion engines for civil and defence services and power systems for oil/gas and other marine industries. Charles Rolls and Henry Royce initially established the company for making cars. But during the First World War in 1914, the government forced them to manufacture Aero-engines for military activities.

    They kept manufacturing cars between 1906 and 1973 but concentrated more on expanding their aerospace sector. Rolls-Royce builds engines for civil and defence aircraft, power systems for land and naval military vehicles including submarines. They also provide power solutions to the oil/gas industry and marine activities. In simple terms, Rolls-Royce is into innovating advanced solutions for meeting our planet’s power needs. Rolls-Royce is technically a subsidiary of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc since 2011.

    Since 1973, after its demerger from the core company, the Rolls-Royce automotive sector went through a number of changes in ownership. Currently, Rolls-Royce cars are manufactured exclusively by the company Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, which is a subsidiary of BMW.

    Rolls-Royce – Latest News

    November 8, 2021 – The United Kingdom Space Agency has joined hands with Rolls-Royce to explore the use of nuclear power in space travel. This may help them cut the space journey time and cost.

    May 28, 2021 – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has launched a new luxury model ‘Boat Tail’ priced around $28 million. It allows you to customize not only the interiors but also the body shape of the car.

    Rolls-Royce – Founders and Team

    Rolls-Royce Founder - Charles Rolls
    Rolls-Royce Founder – Charles Rolls

    Charles Stewart Rolls and Sir Frederick Henry Royce are the co-founders of Rolls-Royce. Charles Rolls (1877 – 1910) was a motoring and aviation pioneer who graduated from Cambridge in 1898. Henry Royce (1863 – 1933) was a popular design engineer for car and aeroplane engines.

    Henry Royce - Rolls-Royce Founder
    Henry Royce – Rolls-Royce Founder

    In 1904, they both co-founded Rolls-Royce along with Claude Goodman Johnson, who was the founding Managing Director of the company after its incorporation in 1906. Their passion for cars and engineering expertise fuelled the company’s growth all through the years.

    Rolls-Royce – Startup Story

    The seed for Rolls-Royce was planted in 1884 when Henry Royce started a mechanical and electrical business in Manchester. In the beginning, he was making dynamos and cranes. Later, he acknowledged the market potential of the car industry in the future and started working on it.

    On the other hand, Charles Rolls graduated from Cambridge and got himself employed in various companies. But he was keen on marketing and motoring, thus started importing and selling cars.

    In 1904, Royce was designing and manufacturing a car of his own and that is when Rolls happened to meet him at an Automobile Club. He was impressed by Royce’s design and agreed to sell all the cars that Royce would make. Thus on 23rd December 1904, at the Paris Motor Show, the brand Rolls-Royce was introduced by displaying their first car Rolls-Royce 10 hp.

    It was initially started as a partnership in 1904. Then in 1906, Rolls-Royce was converted into a Private Limited Company and was further transformed into a Public Listed Company the subsequent year. After the death of Charles Rolls in 1910, Henry Royce and Claude Johnson took the company forward. They kept introducing new car models and by 1914, Rolls-Royce started manufacturing civil and defence aircraft engines too and made it a huge success.


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    Rolls-Royce – Mission and Vision

    Rolls-Royce’s mission is to provide “Better Power for a Changing World”. They aim at improving their standards and performances to provide competitive and clean energy for the future. Rolls-Royce also marches with a vision of Net Zero Carbon in all their endeavours to meet the present and future power needs, while also protecting our society.

    Rolls-Royce Logo
    Rolls-Royce Logo

    The brand name Rolls-Royce was derived after the founders Charles Rolls and Henry Royce. The company’s name is always used with a hyphen in between, which emphasizes the friendly association between founders.

    The logo of Rolls-Royce plc comes in the blue background where two ‘R’s are embedded closely to each other in the middle with Rolls on the top and Royce below. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd has a similar logo with a white background.

    Rolls-Royce’s “Spirit of Ecstacy” emblem is highly admired by many. It resembles a woman leaning forward, with her hands stretched back. Her clothes billow from the back of her neck to her hands which look like wings. The Spirit of Ecstasy, also known as Eleanor or Flying Lady, was designed by Charles Robinson Sykes.


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    Rolls-Royce – Business and Revenue Model

    Rolls-Royce’s business model focuses on reducing the costs of its power systems. This helps them utilize funds to invent and innovate techniques that help them move closer to achieving their mission and vision. They generate revenue by selling engines and other power systems to various industries. Also, a part of the income flows through service contracts from airlines for maintaining the aircraft engines.

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd sells premium luxury cars with high standard and customized features to its customers. Their cars are priced ranging from ₹5 crores to ₹10 crores with Rolls-Royce Phantom topping the price table. Rolls-Royce recently introduced a model named ‘Boat Tail’ for its highly exclusive customers, which is priced at a whopping ₹202 crores.

    Rolls-Royce – Challenges Faced

    In 1971, Rolls-Royce declared Bankruptcy due to the losses suffered by mismanagement. Their fixed-price contract for manufacturing airlines engines with Lockheed Aircraft Corporation became the reason for their fall. This long-term contract made their losses unbearable. Rolls-Royce’s fall impacted various other industries, and as a result, the government stepped over the issue and nationalized the company. The government’s hold continued till 1987, after which it was again converted into a Private Limited Company.

    The next big challenge faced by Rolls-Royce was during the Covid-19 pandemic. The reason stated was, 50% of their revenue comes from aerospace activities which were completely halted due to the crisis. The company reported a loss of around £4 Billion in 2020 which was the biggest loss reported in Rolls-Royce’s history.


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    Rolls-Royce – Funding and Investors

    Rolls-Royce has so far raised around $266 Million in 2 rounds. Their latest funding was through the Post-IPO Equity round for developing Small Modular Reactors (SMR).

    Date Round Amount Investor Name
    November 9, 2021 Post-IPO Equity £195 Million BNF Resources, Exelon Generation Company
    January 21, 2021 Convertible Note $1 Million United States Navy

    Rolls-Royce – Mergers and Acquisitions

    Rolls-Royce Motors demerged from Rolls-Royce (1971) Ltd., in 1973. It operated independently of its parent company along with Bentley Motors until 1980, when Vickers plc acquired this car business. Later in 1998, the Rolls-Royce motors were sold to Volkswagen Group by Vickers but the rights for using the name “Rolls-Royce” and the logo were purchased by BMW for £40 Million. From 2003, BMW got the sole right to name, manufacture and sell Rolls-Royce cars.

    Roll-Royce plc was brought under Rolls-Royce Holdings plc as a subsidiary after the latter was incorporated in 2011. But all the major and principal operations are carried out by Rolls-Royce plc. The following are some of the top acquisitions and subsidiaries of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc:

    Name of the Company Year of Acquisition/Incorporation
    January 14, 2020 QINOUS
    March 30, 2015 R.O.V. Technologies
    2014 Rolls-Royce Controls and Data Services
    2014 Rolls-Royce Power Systems
    July 2, 2013 SmartMotor
    May 1, 2013 Hyper-Therm High-Temperature Composites
    January 8, 2013 PKMJ Technical Services
    May 23, 2011 Rolls- Royce plc
    September 2, 2011 R. Brooks Associates
    January 28, 2010 Europea Microfusioni Aerospaziali
    January 6, 2010 ODIM
    July 8, 2008 Scandinavian Electric Holding
    1995 Rolls-Royce North America (earlier Allison Engine Company)
    1998 Rolls-Royce AB (as a part of Vickers acquisition)
    1999 Rolls-Royce Marine Power Operations
    1998 Vinters Limited (as a part of Vickers acquisition)


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    Rolls-Royce – Growth

    Since the car division was demerged in 1973 and later acquired by BMW, it has seen significant growth in its sales over the years. They’ve even made a record sale in their history by selling more than 5000 cars in 2019. Here is the growth record of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars since 2007, according to Statista:

    Year Sales in Units
    2007 1010
    2008 1212
    2009 1002
    2010 2711
    2011 3538
    2012 3575
    2013 3630
    2014 4063
    2015 3785
    2016 4037
    2017 3438
    2018 4194
    2019 5100
    2020 3756

    On the other hand, Rolls-Royce plc maintained their revenue with little ups and downs from 2016-19 but faced a pitfall of 28% due to pandemic in 2020. Here is their revenue chart for the past five years:

    Year Revenue
    2016 £14.96 Billion
    2017 £14.75 Billion
    2018 £15.73 Billion
    2019 £16.59 Billion
    2020 £11.82 Billion

    Rolls-Royce – Competitors

    Though Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a powerful brand identity, they have tough competitors in the market. Here is a couple of them:

    General Electric – General Electric along with its partners leads the aero-engine market occupying 55% of the market share and holds the 1st position. GE is also involved in various high-tech industrial activities like power systems, aviation, renewable energy, and the digital industry.

    Pratt & Whitney – Pratt & Whitney is another major competitor for Rolls-Royce in the aero-engine market. They also compete with Rolls-Royce in the manufacture of power turbines for marine and other industrial services.

    When it comes to cars, Some of the top competitors for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. are:

    Rolls-Royce – Future Plans

    Rolls-Royce invests huge money in inventing technologies for efficiently meeting our world’s power needs. Their innovations are awe-inspiring which reduces cost for the customers as well as protects our environment.

    Electic Planes – Rolls-Royce aims at electrifying the aviation sector. Their first all-electric plane made its maiden flight on 18th September 2021. This aircraft is further being enhanced to achieve a speed of 300 mph. In the view of combating climate change, Rolls-Royce is into developing zero-emission aircraft for the future.

    Small Modular Reactors (SMR) – Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd was created to build power plants that generate electricity using SMR to meet the future power needs of the UK. This technology is expected to be available by 2030.

    Space Exploration – Rolls-Royce is innovating nuclear technologies to develop power systems for space launch. Net Zero Carbon – Rolls-Royce put forth Net Zero Carbon as their major goal in all their present and futuristic development. They target to bring the carbon level to zero in  their operations by 2030.

    Rolls-Royce – FAQs

    What does Rolls-Royce do?

    Rolls-Royce is an engineering company that manufactures Aero-engines and power systems for civil, defence, and various other industries.

    Is Rolls-Royce owned by BMW?

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd alone is owned by BMW since 2003. It is a separate entity from that of Rolls-Royce plc which is involved in the manufacture of aero-engines and power systems.

    Who are the founders of Rolls-Royce?

    Charles Rolls and Henry Royce started Rolls-Royce in 1904 as a partnership and incorporated as a Private Ltd Company in 1906.

    Which is the costliest Rolls-Royce car?

    The company’s latest introduction of ‘Boat Tail’ is the costliest Rolls-Royce model. Its price is estimated at around ₹202 crores and is made only for a few exclusive customers.

    Who are the top Rolls-Royce competitors?

    Some of the top competitors for Rolls-Royce are:

    • Williams International
    • GE Aviation
    • Safran Aircraft Engines
    • Honeywell
    • General Electric
    • Pratt & Whitney
  • Why is Ford Motors closing down its Manufacturing Plants in India? [Case Study]

    The Indian automotive industry was left with even fewer brands as Ford Motors departed from the Indian markets on Friday. The motor giant had announced its decision to shut down all local manufacturing facilities on Thursday.

    The unpleasant news meant worse for car dealers and the company’s employees as this would affect them in the long run. The manufacturing plants will continue to operate until 2022 for the sole purpose of manufacturing export vehicles. This means their models for the Indian Market such as Figo, Aspire, Freestyle, EcoSport, and Endeavour will no longer be produced.

    For those who have kept track of the auto market, this shouldn’t be something too surprising. Ford is the most recent automotive brand to leave the Indian markets as we’ve seen with Harley Davidson, Chevrolet, and Fiat before. Did all these brands leave for the same reasons or did each of them have their own barriers that stopped them? We’ll take a deeper look into what drove Ford Motors to make this difficult decision.

    What went wrong with Ford?
    The Future of Ford in India
    FAQ

    What went wrong with Ford?

    Ford’s been in the Indian market since 1995, although the company had begun its initial days back in 1926, it had come to halt due to severe import restrictions enacted at the time.

    Ford had resurfaced as Mahindra Ford India Limited (MFIL) a joint venture with Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. The company was then renamed to Ford India Private Limited. Further down the lane, we got to see some of the most iconic cars released by Ford such as the Ikon and Mondeo Mk3.

    There are a few reasons that have contributed to the company’s decision to stop dealing in the Indian market. The decision was bold and calculated to ensure the long-term profitability and sustainability of the company.

    Poor Sales Conditions

    Consumers have always loved Ford but the Indian auto industry as a whole is going downhill. This is rather something to do with how the market is performing and isn’t specific to the brand.

    People have a variety of options available in the market and this has reduced the company’s demand in the Indian market over the years. It’s rather clear from the numbers that the company wasn’t getting any better in terms of market share over the years.

    Ford's falling market shares
    Ford’s falling market shares

    Furthermore, the pandemic meant that fewer people are buying cars which just added to the company’s declining profits in the country.

    Immense Losses

    Ford has lost more than $2 billion over the last 10 years in India. Although models such as the EcoSport had sufficient sales, it wasn’t enough to be considered profitable for the company. Based on how the company operates in India, it’s worth considering the $0.8 billion spent in 2019 just for operations.

    Ford has tried to incorporate global standards for its manufacturing plants and operations alike. These may have been a little too expensive for the country and cost them more money than the potential profits.


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    Broken Joint Venture with Mahindra

    The tie-up between Ford Motors and Mahindra has allowed the company to produce new cars faster and with less investments in the past. The joint venture formed in October, 2019 meant Mahindra was owning a 51 percent controlling stake and Ford owning a 49 percent stake.


    The companies were to cooperate specifically for the co-development of 3 new SUVs and an electric vehicle. But this was not to be, as the partnership was called off in December, 2021. The reasons for this were apparently in the best interests of both companies although there is no official statement.

    Ford's joint venture with Mahindra & Mahindra in October 2019
    Ford’s joint venture with Mahindra & Mahindra in October 2019

    This also means that the upgraded version of Ford’s EcoSport which was to feature Mahindra’s 1.2-liter direct-injection turbo-petrol engine will not be released later this year. The declining sales meant that Ford was relying on the partnership as well as the new SUVs to keep them afloat. The formal end of the joint venture has left the company in a rather difficult position.

    The company was forced to make a choice that would have a deep impact on its future profits. Ford makes more money in other countries like the United States where it’s still able to get sales and keep pushing more expensive cars to consumers.


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    The Future of Ford in India

    To those of you who might be wondering if this is the end game for the company, it certainly isn’t. Ford Motors isn’t leaving India, rather it has put a stop to all manufacturing of local vehicles. The manufacturing plants in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and Sanand (Gujarat) will be shut down in a phased manner. As of right now, these will still be used to manufacture export vehicles and parts.

    Ford has always provided great customer support. The company promises to keep providing existing owners with the same care and support regardless of their decision. As mentioned by Anurag Mehrotra, president of Ford India, car owners will still have access to spare parts and services through local dealers and customer support if it’s needed for any reason.

    As per the company, service will be provided to Ford owners all across India
    As per the company, service will be provided to Ford owners all across India

    As for resales, you might not get as much value as expected. This is the same for any motor brand that isn’t operational in the country anymore. While this is true, cars like the EcoSport are still a good buy if you aren’t too paranoid about the resale value and just want a great car at an affordable price. Service and parts will be provided by Ford as previously mentioned, meaning that getting a Ford car in 2021 can be a satisfying deal if you choose to.

    Ford still plans to serve the Indian market in the form of global imports. Popular global models such as the Ford Mustang will be available to consumers in the form of imports. This just goes to show how desperate the company is to stay operational in the country and how the decision was made purely to ensure the sustainable future of the motor manufacturer. Ford had tried reaching out to multiple manufacturers trying to ensure another joint venture but unfortunately, none have worked out for varying reasons.


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    Conclusion

    Ford’s recent move isn’t very pleasant considering the 4,000 employees who just lost their job. Regardless, the company has made its mind and taken a decision that will aid their benefits. Ford plans to bring more international cars to India and we’ll have to wait and see how things turn out.

    The Indian automotive industry and car enthusiasts alike are sure to miss the brand. But as things are in motion the best we can do is watch out for some great deals for used cars and hope that Ford Motors stays on Indian grounds in the future.

    FAQ

    Why is Ford shutting down its manufacturing plants?

    Ford is shutting down its operations in India as it has lost more than $2 billion over the last 10 years in India.

    Is Ford Leaving India?

    No, Ford will shut down its manufacturing plants but Ford owners will still have access to spare parts and services through local dealers.

    Will Ford support the existing customers?

    Yes, as mentioned by Anurag Mehrotra, president of Ford India, car owners will still have access to spare parts and services through local dealers and customer support if it’s needed for any reason.

  • Interesting Facts About Volkswagen To Amaze You

    Volkswagen has successfully topped itself among the list of successful car producers and manufacturers in the world. It is known for manufacturing many iconic vehicles. It also owns popular brand subsidiaries. Most of us wish to own a car from Volkswagen. But, before moving ahead, let’s know about how Volkswagen emerged.

    During the years before 1930, cars were only meant for the elite people. They were beyond the means of a common man. However, Adolf Hitler announced the manufacturing of a car that could accommodate 2 adults and 3 children. In 1934, Volkswagen announced its first car KdF-Wagen.

    During the Second World War, severe losses happened. However, the company toiled hard to fight with the competition and win the market. Now, let’s have a look at the company highlights of Volkswagen.

    Company Highlights

    Company Name Volkswagen
    Headquarters Wolfsburg, Germany
    Industry Automotive
    Founder German Labour Front
    Founding Year 1937
    Parent Company Volkswagen AG
    Number of employees 307,342

    Now let’s have a look at some amazing facts about Volkswagen.

    Volkswagen – World’s 7th largest Car Company
    Volkswagen – Slogan
    Volkswagen – Subsidiary Brands
    Volkswagen – Naming Of Cars
    Volkswagen – Products Apart From Cars
    Volkswagen – Most Successful Vehicle
    Volkswagen – Largest Market
    Volkswagen – Microbus For About 70 Years
    Volkswagen – Comparision With Toyota
    Volkswagen – Best Seller Of 20th Century
    Volkswagen – Ferdinand Prosche
    Volkswagen – Fastest Car In The World
    Volkswagen – Valuation
    Volkswagen – Users
    Volkswagen – The Dieselgate Scandal
    Conclusion
    FAQs


    Volkswagen Group | German multinational company | Company Profiles |
    On May 28, 1937, the government of Germany, the National Socialist Party forms a new automobile company, Volkswagen. Know more about its business model


    Volkswagen – World’s 7th largest Car Company

    Yes, Volkswagen tops the list of largest car companies by acquiring the rank seven. With about 12 subsidiaries and other productions, Volkswagen successfully made this place in the list.

    Volkswagen – Slogan

    The slogan of Volkswagen was changed from “Das Auto” to ” Volkswagen”. This happened in 2016, which was the company’s initiative to start working afresh.

    Volkswagen – Subsidiary Brands

    Volkswagen subsidiaries | Audi | Lamborghini |Skoda | Bentley | Porsche
    Volkswagen subsidiaries | Audi | Lamborghini |Skoda | Bentley | Porsche 

    Volkswagen owns 12 brands as its subsidiaries. These brands are SEAT, Audi, Bentley, MAN, Lamborghini, Scania, Bugatti, Porsche, Bentley, Skoda, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Ducati.

    About Volkswagen and its Subsidiaries

    Volkswagen – Naming Of Cars

    This might be surprising to know that the names of Volkswagen cars are generally derived from the names of ocean currents. Some names are even derived from the names of prevailing wind Examples may include Vento, Polo, Passat, Bora, etc.

    Volkswagen – Products Apart From Cars

    Volkswagen Engine and Turbocharger
    Volkswagen Engine and Turbocharger

    If you think Volkswagen produces only cars, then you are mistaken. Volkswagen also produces diesel engines, steam turbines, turbochargers, and chemical reactors. Although cars are their major source of income, still they have made huge investments in engine technologies.

    Volkswagen – Most Successful Vehicle

    The most successful vehicle produced by Volkswagen is Golf. On average, it has produced 29 million copies which have been successfully sold worldwide. It was seen as a phase of the transition of Volkswagen towards modernization. It was such a hit that it was nominated for the European Car of the year two times.

    Volkswagen – Largest Market

    This might be intriguing for you to know that China serves to be the largest marketplace for Volkswagen. In 2017, about 3.18 million Volkswagen cars were sold in China which was about half of the sales in the global market. With time, the Chinese market is also expanding.

    Volkswagen – Microbus For About 70 Years

    While we talk about microbus, you might go back to the era of the 70s. However, the microbus was produced by Volkswagen in 1949 and it ran on the roads till 2013.

    Volkswagen – Comparision With Toyota

    Volkswagen Vs Toyota
    Volkswagen Vs Toyota

    If you are wondering about the above question, then it’s simply that Volkswagen is more popular. In 2016, Volkswagen surpassed Toyota by setting a record of selling about 10.31 million cars.

    Volkswagen – Best Seller Of 20th Century

    This might be quite intriguing for you to know that the Beetle was the best selling among all cars in many years. The production of the Beetle was stopped in 2013. However, it had already sold 21.5 million cars by then.

    Volkswagen – Ferdinand Prosche

    You already know that the Beetle was the best selling among all cars of the 20th century. However, the mastermind behind this car was Ferdinand Porsche. He invested only 10 months in manufacturing this car with all its awesome features. After the launch, the popularity of Beetle grew over years.

    Volkswagen – Fastest Car In The World

    Bugatti Chiron, launched in 2016, is the fastest car in the world. Chiron can travel at the speed of 267 miles per hour. It can also gain a speed from 0 to 60 within only 2.4 seconds. Not just this, all the fastest cars including supermodels are produced by Volkswagen.

    Volkswagen – Valuation

    During October 2008, for some short period, Volkswagen was worth around $370 billion in the market. At this time, it was the most valuable company in the world. The share prices even increased drastically leading to this consequence.

    Volkswagen – Users

    Of every ten cars sold across the world, one car is from Volkswagen. This was how popular Volkswagen was in 2014. In the same year, it sold about 10.2 million vehicles. The markets of the company outside of Germany also increased.

    Volkswagen – The Dieselgate Scandal

    It was reported that Volkswagen cars contributed to pollution following which this scandal emerged. The company had infused some software which led to high levels of pollution. After the reporting of the issue, the company suffered heavy losses which included the value of sales falling by 30%. Customers lost their trust resulting in more losses.

    Conclusion

    Volkswagen, being a German manufacturer has made its place in the world market. However, this success didn’t come overnight. Volkswagen had to go through lots of turmoil and hard phases to reach this position. By dint of all its efforts and hard work, it has become the owner of leading car brands.

    The Volkswagen products have even won many awards in the international field. Some of its achievements include European Car of the Year, Motor Trend Car of the Year, World Car of the Year, etc. This adds an extra edge to its competitors.

    FAQs

    Does Volkswagen own Audi?

    Yes, Volkswagen owns many brands as subsidiaries which even includes Audi.

    How are Volkswagen cars named?

    The names of Volkswagen cars are generally derived from the names of ocean currents.

    What was the first car launched by Volkswagen?

    The first car launched by Volkswagen is KdF-Wagen.

    What brands does Volkswagen own?

    • Audi
    • Lamborghini
    • SEAT
    • SKODA
    • Bugatti
    • Porsche
    • Ducati
    • Bentley

    What is the Number of employees in Volkswagen?

    There are 307,342 employees in Volkswagen (2021).

    Which car is best in Volkswagen?

    List of best cars of Volkswagen are:

    • The Volkswagen Touareg
    • Volkswagen Eos
    • Volkswagen Corrado
    • The Iconic Beetle
    • Volkswagen Phaeton
    • The Volkswagen Passat
    • Volkswagen GTi
    • Volkswagen Scirocco
    • The Golf R32
    • The Volkswagen Jetta

    What does Volkswagen stand for?

    In German language, meaning of Volkswagen  is “the people’s car.”