Auto Expo ‘08 - Inauguration

Whenever Auto Expo happens in India, everyone simply goes gaga over it by saying “this was by far the best one”, but then it just gets better the next time round, and this year was no different. Every major manufacturer was present to showcase or launch the best that they have in the kitty.

The day was pretty choc-o-bloc and started with the press meet of Volvo. The Swedish giant unveiled the incredibly subtly sexy convertible – C70. I am not really going to go much into detail about the individual products for now, because we will be following up with in depth reports about each and every major product. Some more interesting and exquisite unveilings happened in the shape of the latest Audi A4, BMW M3, Mitsubishi Outlander and the i car (IMEV). But then suddenly the crowd started running towards. The reason for such a chaos was this – Tata’s new Indica. The Indica V2 DICOR surely looks more grown up and the front end is dynamic with large headlamps sweeping back. The Sumo was in dire need of a makeover and what a makeover it has received! The Sumo Grande comes across as UV which has aggressive looks marked by a sharp rear-end. India’s largest car-maker, Maruti, was present with all its might. The concept car A-Star stole the show and rightly so. What a design! Gorgeous, simply gorgeous. The Splash was showcased as well, adding the right element of consumer-centric approach to the event. Fiat’s press meet was interesting. In a bid to revamp the image of the brand, Fiat is going to take certain important, needed and imperative steps. The Linea sedan is quite a stunner and should hot things up in the upper C segment, while the car primarily responsible for Fiat’s recent success - Grande Punto will do the same in the hatchback segment. Oh, and to stand tall in the same segment will be the much hyped Skoda Fabia which was launched today.

All in all, a packed day, paining legs and a grin-induced face. It was a fruitful day as far as Indian automotive scene is concerned. Important launches going to happen soon, so be at the edge of the seat, guys! And yes, lest I forget, tomorrow’s the big day for Tata as People’s Car (One Lakh Car) is going to be unveiled on the 10th.