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Tag: Hyundai

  • Top 5 Features that Make the Hyundai Venue a Great Choice for First-Time Car Buyers

    Top 5 Features that Make the Hyundai Venue a Great Choice for First-Time Car Buyers

    Since its launch in 2019, the Hyundai Venue has emerged as one of India’s most popular subcompact SUVs. Its smart looks, feature-rich cabin, multiple engine-gearbox options, and relatively affordable pricing make it an excellent choice for young and first-time car buyers. This article will discuss the Venue’s top 5 features, reinforcing its credentials as an ideal entry-level SUV for new car owners.

    An Overview of Hyundai Venue

    The Hyundai Venue is a stylish yet practical small SUV. Its eye-catching exterior pairs nicely with a modern, tech-filled interior. Under the hood, you can choose between three peppy engine options. Whether darting around the city or venturing on the highway, the Venue offers a comfortable, enjoyable driving experience. Clever use of space and numerous safety features make this an ideal vehicle for singles or small families looking for an affordable, efficient vehicle that doesn’t skimp on features.

    If you’re considering purchasing the Hyundai Venue, ackodrive.com is an excellent platform to explore. Acko Drive offers transparent, credible automotive content, from detailed reviews to the latest tech insights, helping you make an informed decision.

    Features that Make the Hyundai Venue a Great Choice

    Here are the features of Hyundai Venue that make it an excellent choice for first-time buyers:

    1. Compact Yet Spacious Design

    The Venue measures just 3995mm in length, 1770mm in width, and 1590mm tall. Its compact dimensions make driving and parking in crowded urban streets very easy. Despite its compact footprint, the Venue’s intelligent packaging results in an airy and spacious cabin.

    There is adequate room at the back to comfortably seat three average-sized adults during short drives. The 315-litre boot space can easily hold a couple of large suitcases. For a vehicle of this size, the Venue feels remarkably spacious inside.

    2. Strong Safety Features for Peace of Mind

    Safety is paramount for new car buyers. The Venue delivers on this front by offering 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and electronic stability control as standard across the range.

    Other safety features include a tyre pressure monitoring system, vehicle stability management, hill-start assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. In NCAP crash tests, the Venue scored 4 stars for adult occupants and 3 stars for child occupants.

    3. Impressive Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency 

    The Hyundai Venue presents three powertrain choices to suit varying needs. The spirited yet frugal 1.2L petrol engine delivers 83bhp and is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. For enthusiasts, the 120bhp/172Nm 1.0L turbo-petrol motor is mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic. Lastly, the proven 1.5L diesel churns out 116bhp/250Nm, prioritising highway cruising comfort over outright performance.

    The petrol engines deliver up to 18.3 km/l, while the oil burner returns an impressive 22.7km/l. Such high fuel efficiency makes the Venue easy on the pockets, an essential consideration for new car owners with limited budgets. 

    4. Tech-savvy and Comfort-Oriented Features

    Who doesn’t love a car that feels like it’s from the future? The Hyundai Venue is loaded with technology that makes every drive enjoyable and convenient.

    . 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System: Comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, making it super easy to connect your smartphone. 

    . Connected Car Tech: Hyundai’s BlueLink system lets you remotely control various car functions, like locking/unlocking the doors or starting the engine. 

    . Comfort Features: A sunroof, cruise control, an air purifier, and wireless phone charging make every journey a breeze.

     . Adventure Edition Perks: For the explorers, the Adventure Edition adds a dual-camera dashcam—perfect for capturing those scenic road trips.

    First-time buyers often look for a car that’s easy to use but doesn’t skimp on modern features. The Venue strikes that perfect balance.

    5. Budget-Friendly Pricing

    Hyundai has left no stone unturned to make the Venue an aspirational product for young audiences. Fortunately, the pricing is on point for an entry-level SUV.  The Venue retails between Rs 7.53 lakhs and Rs 13.62 lakhs ex-showroom. Compared to its immediate rivals, Kia Sonet and Maruti Vitara Brezza, which retail at similar price points, the Hyundai Venue manages to undercut them across most variants, making it a smarter choice for new car buyers.

    The Bottom Line

    The Hyundai Venue is a well-rounded sub-4-meter SUV targeting first-time buyers and young professionals on a budget. Its right-sized dimensions, coupled with a feature-loaded and safety-focused package, make it a great value proposition. If you are looking to enter the SUV segment without stretching your budget too far, the Venue emerges as a top contender that should be on your consideration set.

  • Karan Veer Mehra wins COLORS’ ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’

    Karan Veer Mehra wins COLORS’ ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’

    Mumbai: COLORS’ ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ has crowned Karan Veer Mehra as the ultimate khiladi of its fourteenth season, with Krishna Shroff and Gashmeer Mahajani as the first and second runners-up, respectively. This season, hosted by Rohit Shetty, took place in Romania, marking the show’s debut in the country. Over nine weeks, viewers experienced a range of never-before-seen stunts, including sky-high plunges, underwater challenges, and contestants facing a bear for the first time. The season was presented by Hyundai, powered by Charged, with special partners Indica Easy Hair Color, Vicks, and Berger Paints.

    Karan’s journey highlighted his courage and composure under pressure as he tackled extreme heights and intense obstacles. He impressed viewers and earned the respect of his fellow contestants through sportsmanship and encouragement. Rohit Shetty frequently praised Karan for his tenacity and strategy. Karan not only walked away as the ultimate khiladi of the season but also captured the hearts of millions with his perseverance.

    Commenting on the season and Karan’s victory, Rohit Shetty said, “What a rollercoaster ride this season has been! Romania threw everything it had at us, and our amazing group of contestants performed very challenging stunts with a smile. It is beyond commendable that Karan Veer Mehra almost never lost his footing as he faced never-seen-before challenges. Congratulations to him for winning this game-changing edition and writing his own story of courage. I thank the viewers for showering their love on the show and cementing its place among the top reality shows year after year.”

    Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India group chief operating officer, Rishi Negi said, “As we wrap up the 14th season of ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’, we at Endemol Shine India are proud to have made a quantum leap into uncharted territories of fear. Congratulations to the well-deserved winner Karan Veer Mehra, who overcame the new challenges curated especially for this edition. This season, we set out to rewrite the rulebook of reality television, and going by the audience’s love, we’ve succeeded undoubtedly. It was thrilling for us to put together a season that marked so many firsts. None of this would have been possible without the support of COLORS, ensuring that the heart-racing action of ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’ reached every corner of the nation.”

    Talking about his victory, Mehra said, “Exploring the world of reality television with COLORS has been an exciting and life-changing journey. I can’t even begin to put into words the surreal feeling of achieving something I once thought was impossible. Winning this season was unthinkable without the guidance of the one and only action king, Rohit Shetty sir. My fellow contestants weren’t just competitors, they were comrades in this battle against fear and some of them have become my friends. The real heroes of my journey are the viewers, who loved and supported me. This victory is not just mine—it belongs to everyone who stood by me.”

    As the grand finale unfolded, Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina took center stage, celebrating the season’s end while promoting their upcoming film, ‘Jigra.’ In a fun twist, they challenged Rohit Shetty to a humorous task, where he sat through a video montage that humorously poked fun at Shalin Bhanot. The audience laughed as Rohit mimicked Shalin’s iconic walk with perfect timing.

    The finale also featured Shalin Bhanot and Gashmeer Mahajani performing “Aaj Ki Raat,” highlighting their chemistry. Alia auditioned for Rohit Shetty’s cop universe, portraying a fierce Sherni Cop, delivering a memorable lesson to a group of kidnappers who abducted her on-screen brother, Vedang. Additionally, a lucky commoner lived out their Khiladi dream as the Hyundai Drive to Win finalist, performing a thrilling stunt alongside Karan Veer Mehra. The event concluded with an exciting sneak peek of Bigg Boss 18, featuring the new theme, “Time Ka Tandav,” generating buzz for what’s next.

  • Hyundai Motor India Ltd collaborates with Falguni Shane Peacock for 17th India Couture Week 2024

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd collaborates with Falguni Shane Peacock for 17th India Couture Week 2024

    Mumbai: In a fusion of automotive innovation and bespoke fashion, Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL), today showcased a specially wrapped Hyundai IONIQ 5 in collaboration with celebrity fashion designers Falguni Shane Peacock. This specially wrapped Hyundai IONIQ 5 will make its runway debut at the finale of the 17 editions of India’s marquee fashion event- India Couture Week 2024 (ICW). The exclusive collaboration with Falguni Shane Peacock promises to captivate audiences by blending technology with unique design aesthetics.

    Continuing its collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) for the second consecutive year, HMIL is proud to partner once again for Hyundai India Couture Week 2024. The 17th edition of ICW will highlight the pinnacle of fine craftsmanship on a star-studded runway, celebrating the avant-garde creations of India’s couturiers.

    Speaking about HMIL’s association with FDCI, Tarun Garg, COO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd, said, “We are thrilled to continue our association with FDCI for the second year running. Aligned with our parent company Hyundai Motor Company’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, we aim to create innovative experiences for our customers in India. For the 17th edition of ICW 2024, we have partnered with renowned designers Falguni Shane Peacock, who come with an experience of 20 years of creating timeless designs. Our collaboration with them is a testament to our commitment of supporting artisans and diverse cultural heritage of India. We are excited to unveil the specially wrapped IONIQ 5 for ICW 2024 and look forward to a successful show.”

    Falguni Shane Peacock said, “It is our immense pleasure to present our collection at the Hyundai India Couture Week 2024. This year, our inspiration draws from the opulent heritage, mythology, and grandeur of India’s past. Our collection celebrates the essence of India’s cultural legacy, showcasing elements that hold deep significance in Indian culture. The motifs, colors, and textiles we have chosen are steeped in Indian heritage, featuring luxurious silks and silk threads. In collaboration with Swadesh, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Indian handcrafted art, we have incorporated these exquisite fabrics into our designs. At Falguni Shane Peacock, we pride ourselves on infusing traditional inspiration with a modern, contemporary twist, staying true to our brand’s signature style. This collection exemplifies our commitment to blending rich Indian elements with a new-age perspective. We look forward to presenting our bespoke, culturally-rich ensembles to you.”

    FDCI, chairman Sunil Sethi said, “FDCI is delighted to partner with Hyundai Motor India Limited for yet another year of India Couture Week. Our collaboration has been a thrilling journey of creativity and innovation. This year’s event will be even grander, with Falguni Shane Peacock as our finale designers. The Hyundai India Couture Week 2024 at the Taj Palace is going to be a spectacular event.”

    Hyundai India Couture week 2024 will bring home-grown luxury to the centre stage, featuring exclusive collections from 14 esteemed Indian couturiers – Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Amit Aggarwal, Dolly J, Falguni Shane Peacock, Gaurav Gupta Couture, Jayanti Reddy, JJ Valaya, Kunal Rawal, Rahul Mishra, Rimzim Dadu, Roseroom by Isha Jajodia, Siddartha Tytler, Suneet Varma, and Tarun Tahiliani. The event is set to dazzle New Delhi from 24-31 July’ 2024 at the Taj Palace Hotel and Ashoka Hotel.

    Adding to the glamour, the specially wrapped Hyundai IONIQ 5 will delight the audiences at the star-studded event on the closing day. This partnership blends innovation and tradition, celebrating the enchanting realm of artisanal finesse and enduring narratives. 

  • Disney Star onboards eleven sponsors for Wimbledon Championships 2024

    Disney Star onboards eleven sponsors for Wimbledon Championships 2024

    Mumbai: As the 2024 Wimbledon Championships commences today, Disney Star announces an impressive lineup of sponsors for the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament. This year, eleven sponsors, including brands like Hyundai, House of Glenfiddich, Jaquar, Castrol, Kohler, Zepto, Amul, Xiaomi, LIC, Natural Diamond Council and Disney Adventure Cruise Line have joined to support the event so far.

    “Wimbledon is one of the most coveted tennis championships, and we are thrilled by the sponsors who have come on board. The participation of these distinguished brands underscores the widespread appeal and prestige of this historic tournament. This diverse group of sponsors reflects the growing enthusiasm for tennis and emphasizes the importance of delivering varied content in today’s sports landscape. As the event unfolds, we look forward to providing an exceptional viewing experience for tennis fans across India,” said Disney Star head of network, advertising sales,  Ajit Varghese.

    The 2024 Wimbledon Championships promise thrilling tennis action on its historic grass courts. Reigning champions Carlos Alcaraz and Markéta Vondroušová will defend their titles, with Alcaraz coming off his maiden Wimbledon victory and Vondroušová making history as the first unseeded women’s singles champion in 2023.

    Disney Star unveils a stellar roster of brand sponsors for the 2024 Wimbledon Championship, ensuring extensive visibility and engagement opportunities throughout the tournament. Excitement builds as this grand sporting spectacle unfolds, celebrating the essence of Wimbledon with valued partners and viewers.

  • Universal Music Group felicitates partner brands amidst India’s largest Artist showcase in Delhi

    Universal Music Group felicitates partner brands amidst India’s largest Artist showcase in Delhi

    Mumbai: The Universal Music Group in India recently announced big growth moves including upping of its regional leadership during the visit of Adam Granite – CEO Africa, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) – to Mumbai & the Capital last week.

    Chairman CEO Devraj Sanyal, along with Sanujeet Bhujabal, MD Universal Music India & South Asia & Preeti Nayyar, SVP & Business Head UMG for Brands, India & South Asia hosted two big celebrations in both cities in honour of Adam’s visit, which saw the who’s who of the artist, composer, producer, singer writer community in attendance, in respect to Universal Music’s always-on, artist- first way of life.

    Badshah, Neha & Tony Kakkar, Harrdy Sandhu, Divine, Jaani, Kanika Kapoor, MC Stan, Kanishk & Kavita Seth, Dino James, Dhanda Nyoliwala (who flew in special from Australia), MC Square, Paradox, DG Immortals, Raga, Gulzar Cheniwala, Vilen were some of the stars that showed up and discussed the future of an artist-centric economy to come.

    Amidst the performances from some of the most promising emerging stars of tomorrow, UMG for Brands felicitated three of their partners – also some of the biggest global majors in their respective categories – Hyundai, Coca Cola, Pernod Ricard.

    Team UMGB along with Adam & Devraj celebrated these special partnerships for taking the lead in enabling cultural change through music & music-led IPs in partnership with Universal Music Group.

    In an increasingly cluttered environment of consumers’ mind-space that exists today, brands across categories are resorting to differentiated thinking and marketing vehicles to capture share-of-voice.

    Music has always been at the heart of engaging the consumer with the brand’s narrative. But the trio of brands: Hyundai, Coca Cola, Pernod Ricard – as diverse as automobile, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages – are taking this several steps further, by using the undeniable power of music and artistry as a focal point in their marketing strategy. These three brands have consistently collaborated with UMG for Brands over the last few years, to produce some incredible and distinctive music led IPs and getting together artists across a wide spectrum and languages. Thus, they have been at the forefront of effecting a cultural paradigm shift through music, with UMG for Brands being a solid partner all through.

    Through Hyundai’s Spotlight, Coca Cola’s Coke Studio Bharat (Season 1 and 2) and Pernod Ricard’s “Royal Stag Boombox” (Season 2) – some of the most sought-after names in the music and entertainment business have churned out some chartbuster tracks. These brands have effectively used music to communicate their core messaging, bring fans closer to the artists and drive brand love. UMG for Brands appreciates their association and the evening that was to bring all these entities together to formally recognise their contribution.

    Sanyal said, “Globally our Music & Brands business is the biggest & the most recognised because we partner with some of the smartest & most innovative CXOs in the world over & even here it’s really no different. My friends Tarun from Hyundai, Arnab from Coke & Karthik from PR are the best-in-class marketeers in their categories, willing to push the envelope every day to be better, ahead of the curve & absolutely world class and I couldn’t be more honoured to celebrate that especially in the presence of my boss & partner Adam.

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd COO Tarun Garg said :  Hyundai Spotlight is our one-of-a-kind enabler platform, that aims to discover, incubate, and promote emerging musical talent in India. Through Hyundai Spotlight, we are connecting with the young aspirational generation of India that wants authentic brand experiences. Collaborating with UMG India has been an incredible journey, where both brands have come together to blend their passion for innovation in musical heritage. Together, Hyundai Motor India and UMG India are harmonizing technology and artistry to create unforgettable experiences for the audiences, ensuring that each interaction leaves a lasting impression. This initiative not only uplifts young artists but also enhances the overall customer experience by providing exclusive, high-quality musical content. We are glad to be associated with UMG India and we are always looking to motivate young artists to blossom and come forward to showcase their talent.

    Roy said : It has been a fantastic journey with UMG on Coke Studio Bharat – our number one vehicle to build the cultural connect  in an authentic way . UMG has been helping us with powerful insights on the musical front that helped deliver super hits like Khalasi, Holi Re Rasiya amongst many other songs.

    Mohindra said, “Boombox is a critical part of our youth outreach for Royal Stag #Liveitlarge and we’re super pleased that our partnership with UMGB has helped evolve this incredibly important property in a holistic and future forward manner setting it up for the next few years to become the most valuable and exciting music led IP, not just for India but for Bharat.”

    Nayyar said: It’s encouraging and reassuring to see our partners and our artists coming together for both of our showcase events . We thank them all for trusting us over the years with their precious brands.

  • Hyundai Motor drives sustainable clean logistics in U.S. with vision for a hydrogen society

    Hyundai Motor drives sustainable clean logistics in U.S. with vision for a hydrogen society

    Mumbai: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) today shared its hydrogen vision and introduced its U.S. clean logistics business powered by the company’s Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric truck at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo 2024.

    The company is exhibiting the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck and fuel cell system, along with digital exhibits, demonstrating the vehicle enhancement concept and its hydrogen value chain technologies, from 20–23 May at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

    Building a hydrogen society roadmap

    At Hyundai Motor’s press conference, Hyundai Motor executive vice president and head of the global commercial vehicle and hydrogen business Ken Ramirez, highlighted the company’s commitment to building a hydrogen society. He spoke about the true value of hydrogen and how Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is leveraging its affiliates’ cross-industry capabilities spanning the entire hydrogen value chain — from hydrogen production and storage to logistics, transport and diverse applications — to realize the company’s vision for a hydrogen society.

    Earlier this year, Hyundai Motor announced a vision for the HTWO brand’s expanding role in the hydrogen value chain, signalling that it will be the catalyst for a global energy transition. Hyundai Motor aims to realize its vision for a hydrogen society by leveraging the Group’s integrated capabilities across various industries.

    “Our HTWO brand’s expanding role reflects Hyundai’s unique reach beyond mobility into an integrated hydrogen value chain to lead the global energy transition,” Ramirez said. “We are like no other energy company with roots deeply grounded in mobility – and we are like no other mobility company with branches so far reaching into energy. Our mission has always been clear: leverage our strengths in both mobility and energy sectors to realize our vision for a hydrogen society.”

    Joining the presentation, Hyundai Motor North America senior vice president and head of commercial vehicle and hydrogen business development Jim Park detailed the company’s rollout of its Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric trucks in key U.S. hydrogen logistics projects, including the NorCAL ZERO Project and Clean Logistics Project as further proof of the company’s commitment.

    Last year through the NorCAL ZERO Project, Hyundai Motor deployed 30 XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks at the Port of Oakland and Port of Richmond to haul freight containers and vehicles, marking the single largest commercial deployment of Class 8 heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks in North America. In Georgia, the company is working on the Clean Logistics Project at its Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), to decarbonize the company’s production facility.

    “This landmark port decarbonization initiative in California serves as a prime example of how hydrogen trucks are paving the way towards sustainable future logistics,” Park said. “By replicating the success of NorCAL ZERO and tailoring it to specific customer needs, we at Hyundai aim to create a worldwide network of clean, hydrogen-powered operations.”

    Hyundai Motor is actively working to decarbonize its captive logistics through the Clean Logistics Project. This year, the company will take a significant step by deploying XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks to its facility in Georgia. This deployment will begin Hyundai Motor’s efforts to reduce emissions from its internal logistics operations.

    HTWO Logistics to bring clean solutions to HMGMA

    GLOVIS America executive director Glenn Clift a leading logistics provider that shares Hyundai Motor’s hydrogen vision, joined the press conference as a guest speaker to introduce HTWO Logistics, a partnership for benchmarking in sustainable logistics solutions revolving around HMGMA.

    “Our clean logistics operation in Georgia deals specifically with reducing the carbon emission of inbound and outbound transportation around our new manufacturing facility,” Clift said. “Through HTWO Logistics, we will partner with Hyundai Motor in establishing a value chain of clean hydrogen production, supply, refuelling and zero-emission vehicles to handle the logistics, creating a hydrogen mobility ecosystem in and around Georgia’s Metaplant.”

    Through this partnership, the two companies will leverage a comprehensive suite of HTWO solutions to maximize carbon emissions reduction. By gaining valuable insights from this project, the companies aim to replicate this success model globally, further expanding Hyundai Motor’s HTWO business.

    XCIENT Fuel Cell truck product enhancement concept

    In line with Hyundai Motor’s continuous dedication to customer-driven innovation, the company digitally previewed the enhancement concept of its XCIENT Fuel Cell truck.

    The enhancement concept videos on display show a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, offering drivers clear and concise information at a glance, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with physical buttons integrated into the centre console for driver convenience.

    The display model also features a comprehensive suite of Hyundai Motor’s Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) designed to enhance vehicle safety and minimize driver fatigue. These enhancements include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Side Collision Avoidance Warning (SOD) and Smart Cruise Control (SCC).

    The company also introduced its collaboration with autonomous driving industry leader Plus to enhance road safety and freight efficiencies. The two companies are testing Level 4 autonomous driving technology on Hyundai Motor’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck in the U.S., a first for a Class 8 fuel cell electric truck in the country.

    Hyundai Motor’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, equipped with Plus SuperDrive Level 4 autonomous driving technology, is on display at Plus’s ACT Expo booth (#2044).

    HTWO’s vision for hydrogen’s potential in the CV sector and beyond

    Widely regarded as a safe, clean and sustainable energy carrier, hydrogen is considered a perfect solution for commercial vehicles and logistics transportation due to its diverse advantages, including production, storage, logistics and refuelling infrastructure. Hydrogen is a high-density energy carrier that allows fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) to provide a sustained power output suitable for long-haul driving and carrying heavy loads.

    Hyundai Motor’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, powered by its field-proven fuel cell system, is already a game changer and leads the FCEV market, with units in operation around the world, including in Europe, South Korea and North America. Hyundai Motor’s hydrogen fuel cell technology is already going beyond mobility into various applications, including stationary power, industrial equipment and, soon, electrolyzers.

    As announced at CES 2024, HTWO has evolved from a fuel cell system to a complete hydrogen value chain brand, integrating the Group’s capabilities across various industries. By leveraging its strength in the mobility and energy sectors, the Group is now uniquely positioned to offer holistic solutions spanning every stage of the hydrogen value chain.  

    Moving upstream in the hydrogen value chain, the Group has developed pioneering methods for converting organic waste into hydrogen as part of its pilot project operating in Chungju, South Korea. By extracting biogas from food waste, hydrogen is created through an advanced process. This hydrogen is then supplied to an on-site hydrogen refuelling station to power hydrogen vehicles. The Group will have another facility in Korea by the end of this year in which sewage sludge is transformed into hydrogen.

    The Group is also reviewing a hydrogen energy business model to integrate the whole value chain, from hydrogen production through plastic-to-hydrogen technology, to carbon capture, utilization, storage (CCUS), transportation, supply and applications.

    XCIENT Fuel Cell truck on display at ACT Expo 2024

    The XCIENT Fuel Cell truck with a 6×4 drive axle configuration is on display at Hyundai Motor’s booth (#530, open to the public May 20-23) along with a hydrogen fuel cell system. The truck will be shown together with digital exhibits demonstrating the company’s HTWO Grid solutions and the enhancement concept of the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck. The company is also operating an XCIENT Fuel Cell truck test drive program at the Expo (May 21-22).

  • NODWIN Gaming secures major partnerships for DreamHack India 2023

    NODWIN Gaming secures major partnerships for DreamHack India 2023

    Mumbai: South Asia’s leading emerging market gaming and esports media company NODWIN Gaming has partnered with Intel, Monster, Hyundai, TVS Raider, Opraahfx, BenQ, and ACT for the fourth edition of India’s premier digital festival, DreamHack. The much-awaited three-day grand celebration of gaming and pop culture, packed with exhilarating action, cutting-edge technology, and esports marvels kicks off on 3 November, in the city of Nizams, Hyderabad, for a second consecutive year.

    NODWIN Gaming’s strategic alliance with tech giant Intel as the festival’s global partner will usher in Intel’s unmatched expertise and state-of-the-art technology to elevate the overall DreamHack India experience. This collaboration ensures that attendees stand at the forefront of gaming innovation, resonating perfectly with Intel’s unwavering dedication to empowering the gaming and esports ecosystem, harmonizing seamlessly with NODWIN Gaming’s commitment to delivering the ultimate spectator experience to the community. Joining Intel in this exciting venture is Monster Energy, a brand synonymous with esports and gaming across the world. This collaboration aims to energize DreamHack India attendees and create a dynamic atmosphere that supercharges the esports and gaming community at India’s premier digital festival.

    Adding to the festival’s excitement, Hyundai has been announced as the official mobility partner, with Indian two-wheeler manufacturing giant TVS Raider joining as the official motoring partner for the latest edition of DreamHack India.

    NODWIN Gaming has further announced that ACT will serve as the festival’s connectivity partner, ensuring seamless internet connectivity, vital for esports enthusiasts and the success of the multitude of esports tournaments delivering the customary DreamHack India experience.

    Opraahfx will be the festival’s talent partner, bringing an array of experiences, activities, and talent from the entertainment industry, playing a pivotal role in ensuring that DreamHack India is an all-encompassing entertainment extravaganza.

    Intel has also been named as the title partner for the CS2 Invitational tournament, with world-renowned consumer electronics manufacturer BenQ joining as the tournament’s monitor partner. The CS2 Invitational will also have DreamHack mobility partner Hyundai featuring as a partnering brand.

    NODWIN Gaming also extends its gratitude to the Government of Telangana for its unwavering support in the success of DreamHack India 2023.

    Together, NODWIN Gaming and its esteemed partners share the joint objective of leveraging their brand strengths to deliver the highest level of entertainment to DreamHack India attendees. The mega collaboration promises to set new standards for gaming festivals and provide the community with an unforgettable three-day DreamHack experience.

    Commenting on the latest edition of DreamHack India 2023, NODWIN Gaming co-founder and managing director Akshat Rathee said, “We are thrilled to bring the 4th edition of DreamHack India to Hyderabad for the second successive year. DreamHack embodies the very essence of the digital world and stands as a grand celebration of technology, gaming, esports, and pop culture. We want to express our sincere gratitude to the Government of Telangana for their steadfast support. NODWIN Gaming, in collaboration with our esteemed partners, remains dedicated to advancing the esports landscape in India through our collective intellectual properties. Our shared objective is to leverage the unique strengths of each brand to elevate the overall experience for our DreamHack community. While there is undoubtedly a significant amount of work ahead, we are embarking on an exhilarating journey filled with promise and excitement!”

    NODWIN Gaming has also announced day passes designed to cater to the specific entertainment preferences of DreamHack attendees in addition to the previously unveiled feature-laden festival passes. These day tickets are priced from Rs 299 and can be acquired through DreamHack India’s official ticketing partners, PayTM Insider, and MeraEvents.

  • Expect the unexpected: COLORS’ ‘BIGG BOSS’ puts Dil, Dimaag aur Dum to the test

    Expect the unexpected: COLORS’ ‘BIGG BOSS’ puts Dil, Dimaag aur Dum to the test

    Mumbai:  The entertainment extravaganza of the television world is back as COLORS is all set to kickstart its newest edition of the cult reality show – BIGG BOSS. Over the years, the show has gripped the millions of viewers of the nation, becoming a household name and an annual entertainment ritual. Having shattered viewership records, the last season of the show reigned over television, dominated social media conversations, and immortalized some of its best moments in public memory. This year, the show makes a historic move with its new edition capturing the Dil, Dimaag aur Dum of the master of the house.  Until now viewers have seen ‘BIGG BOSS’ serving justice in the right way and treating all the contestants equally but this time he will have his set of favourites. The master of the house will align with those who play with their hearts, nurture, and mentor those who engage in strategic mind games and celebrate the courageous ones. Amid all the novelty of this season, one aspect of the show remains constant with the megastar Salman Khan reprising his role as the host, who raises the right questions and drops reality checks on Weekend Ka Vaar. Produced by Endemol Shine India (part of the Banijay Group), ‘BIGG BOSS’ co-presented by Hyundai, co-powered by Dabur BAE Fresh Red Gel, TRESemmé, and Appy Fizz, Harpic as Hygiene Partner, Special Partner Ching’s Schezwan Chutney, Smart Lock Screen Partner Glance, and Hygiene Partner Harpic will premiere on October 15, at 9.00 pm and thereafter air every Monday to Friday at 10.00 pm and Saturday and Sunday at 9.00 pm only on COLORS, with a 24-hour LIVE channel on JioCinema.

    “BIGG BOSS is the undisputed king of entertainment in India. No other show has amassed the fandom, viewership, and continued success that BIGG BOSS has. It enhances the participants’ celebrity quotient, provides non-stop entertainment to Indians over 100 days, generates social conversations that last well beyond the run-time of the show and delivers unparalleled reach and engagement to partnering brands.” Viacom18 president –  general entertainment Alok Jain commented. He further added, “This year we will be disrupting the format of the show by having BIGG BOSS play the game with and on the contestants. This ethos of innovation will further extend to our sponsors and advertisers as the integrations and brand commitments playout across our television, digital and social media assets. With the addition of the free 24hour Live Channel on JioCinema, BIGG BOSS, this year, will see a scale that is unparalleled in the Indian entertainment ecosystem. BIGG BOSS truly is the biggest festival release of the year – a sentiment shared by our viewers and advertisers alike.”

    Among a volley of never-seen-before elements in the upcoming edition, Khan will be showing the audience around the most coveted house in the country in its premiere episode. For the very first time, the BIGG BOSS house will feature a unique area known as the ‘Archive Room’. This room will serve as a comprehensive library, housing footage from every episode of the current season. Handpicked contestants will have the privilege of accessing this treasure trove of footage, allowing them to gain valuable insights into their fellow housemates’ interactions and specific events that have occurred throughout the season. That’s not all, the premiere episode has something in store for all the Salman Khan fans as they will get to witness their favourite host performing on his chartbusters. Apart from this, on the premiere episode BIGG BOSS will not only contextualise the mantras of the season but also incite curiosity about how this season will be a distinctive one. Jaaniye iss baar game kaise nahi hoga sabke liye same to same…

    Talking about the show, Khan said, “I have a long-standing association with Bigg Boss, and I’ve witnessed that each edition brings novelty and sets the bar of entertainment higher. In this season, the mantras of Dil, Dimaag aur Dum have laid out three paths for the contestants and it will be an exciting watch to see their journey unfold. I’m looking forward to hosting this one-of-a-kind edition as the contestants take on this interesting challenge of teaming up with the Boss himself.”

    Post the phenomenal success of BIGG BOSS OTT, JioCinema is back with an array of offerings for the upcoming season of BIGG BOSS on television, ensuring a captivating experience with exclusive content access for free with its 24-hour LIVE channel. For the first time, the audience will get an opportunity to choose from two multi-cam LIVE feeds and select the cameras they want to watch from, apart from the main live feed. The platform will also enhance interactivity with some exciting watch-and-win programs such as Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan, which will give users an opportunity to win exciting prizes every hour by watching the 24-Hour LIVE Channel. Bringing a truly second-screen experience, COLORS TV viewers can watch & take part in the Daily BIGG BOSS quiz by answering a simple question on the JioCinema app.

    JioCinema takes the experience of content interactivity a notch higher with the launch of BIGG BOSS Fantasy League, along with the popular Hype Chat & Janta Ka Vichaar. And that’s not all! Interesting content segments such as BIGG BOSS Hits, Bigg News, Unseen Undekha, Bigg Quicks and Live Shorts will up the   entertainment quotient on the platform. Popular talk show Bigg Buzz will make a grand comeback with the favourite host Krushna Abhishek and his family interacting with some of the popular past and evicted contestants.

    Commenting on the association, Hyundai Motor India Ltd CEO Tarun Garg, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Bigg Boss, India’s iconic reality television show. Much like Hyundai, Bigg Boss embodies innovation, entertainment, and community. Hyundai, elevating trust, now prioritises safety with the introduction of 6 airbags as a standard across all models and variants- paralleling the strategies in the Bigg Boss house where every week contestants strive to be safe from nominations and evictions. This collaboration with Hyundai and Bigg Boss signifies our commitment to engage with the young audience nationwide, offering memorable experiences and moments of joy. We anticipate a triumphant alliance that will inject excitement and intrigue into Bigg Boss’s new season. Together, we embark on a journey into a realm of adventure, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Brace yourself for the fusion of Hyundai’s excellence and Bigg Boss’s drama – a match crafted in the entertainment heaven.”

    Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We at Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India take great pride in the splendid legacy of Bigg Boss. We are thrilled about the launch of its new season, which promises to capture emotions, chemistry, mind games, heartwarming moments, and drama. In an unprecedented move, Bigg Boss will now step into the game and team up with the contestants, who are free to choose the approach of Dil, Dimaag aur Dum. With the enigmatic Dabangg host Salman Khan at the helm, the master of the house showcasing three different avatars and a dynamic lineup of contestants, the stage is set for television entertainment to reach new heights.”

    To establish the theme and the mantras of this game-changing season, the channel has crafted an all-encompassing digital campaign. For the first time in the history of the show, viewers will get a virtual tour of the most unconventional house on television over social media along with its launch, leaving them to speculate the fate of this season. Building the anticipation further, the show will introduce the contestants on social media through a tarot card reader and spark intrigue about their personalities and the approach they pick for their journey in the edition. The iconic moments of the show are reigning over social media as CGI ads present glimpses of its marvellous legacy and underline the mantras of Dil, Dimaag aur Dum. Scaling up its engagement quotient, COLORS Instagram handle is disseminating social media posts along the lines of #BlastFromThePast to evoke nostalgia and generate buzz around Dil, Dimaag aur Dum.  On the launch day, to celebrate the charismatic host of the show, Salman Khan, a sneak peek of its digitally themed shoot will be released, and viewers will be engaged through live updates. As the excitement builds on the social media platforms and the countdown begins, get ready to embark on this extraordinary journey!    

    Get ready to watch ‘BIGG BOSS’ ‘BIGG BOSS’ co-presented by Hyundai, co-powered by Dabur BAE Fresh Red Gel, TRESemmé , and Appy Fizz, Harpic as Hygiene Partner, Special Partner Ching’s Schezwan Chutney, Smart Lock Screen Partner Glance and Hygiene Partner Harpic premiering on the 15th October 2023 and airing thereafter every Monday to Friday at 10.00 pm and Saturday and Sunday at 9.00 pm only on COLORS, with a 24-hour LIVE channel on JioCinema.

  • Videotex becomes strategic ODM partner for webOS Hub

    Videotex becomes strategic ODM partner for webOS Hub

    Mumbai: With the introduction of webOS Hub 2.0, Videotex International has now become the strategic ODM partner of webOS Hub.

    Videotex has already partnered with over 15 leading smart TV brands, including Lloyd, BPL, Hyundai, Akai, Vise, Daiwa, Compaq, and others, to manufacture TVs that run webOS Hub.

    Commenting on the development, Videotex director Arjun Bajaj said, “Following the success of webOS Hub 1.0, we are excited to transition to webOS Hub 2.0, which is smarter, more interactive, & provides users with an advanced smart TV experience. The most recent addition demonstrates Videotex’s commitment to continuous innovation and providing excellence in cutting-edge technologies to new-age users. This development will also strengthen the company’s position as a market leader in India, giving its partners more reasons to choose Videotex as a manufacturer over other brands when considering ‘Make in India’ smart TVs.”

    Since Videotex began producing webOS solutions, the operating system has been a game changer in the Indian television industry. In India, the company began providing ODM solutions for one brand and has since successfully onboarded over 15 brands. Videotex has produced over 5,00,000 webOS Hub-enabled televisions at its high-end facility in Greater Noida, which has a production capacity of more than 1.4 million TVs per year and is being expanded with their new unit, which has a production capacity of more than 1.8 million TVs per year, for a total manufacturing capacity of 3.2 million.

    India and China both house R&D facilities for Videotex. By providing a comprehensive selection of 32- to 65-inch smart TVs in the new webOS Hub 2.0 solutions, which are available in HD, full HD, and 4K, Videotex has consistently worked to bring cutting-edge solutions to the Indian smart TV industry.

    LGE HE Platform Biz division head and senior vice president Chris Jo said, “At LG, we are committed to refining and expanding our webOS Hub ecosystem, which continues to introduce more and more consumers to the unparalleled user experience of LG webOS Hub. With this, we are pleased to expand our collaboration with Videotex, which has been at the forefront of India’s smart TV ecosystem.”

    LG’s revolutionary and brilliant webOS Hub operating system powers its smart TV line. With the help of ThinQ AI, which is included with webOS Hub, users can voice-control their TVs and other IoT devices that support ThinQ. The TV comes with a magic remote that includes features like a click wheel, quick access, and direct hotkeys for Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Other devices like soundbars, AV receivers, and others can also be controlled universally by the remote. Users can operate their TVs from their smartphones with the LG ThinQ app.

    Gamers can customise their gaming experience based on the genre using a new gaming dashboard and dedicated modes, which are another major focus. Using depth analytics extraction by an AI engine, the Smart TV’s upgraded Realtek Chipset optimises sharpness and contrast for better picture quality. It supports HDR formats such as HLG for OLED/UHD, HDR10, and upscaling to 4K for a more cinematic viewing experience.

    A clear voice algorithm and advanced Dolby audio are also supported by the TV, and they both increase the size of extracted voice components (vocal sound) while lowering the background noises. Users can now use their voice to discover, access, and enjoy their favourite streaming content via Netflix voice UI thanks to the most recent webOS Hub 2.0.

    webOS Hub 2.0 is a consumer-centric design with new features such as bezel-less designs, magic remote, universal control, MEMC, ALLM for OLED/UHD, Bluetooth 2-way, and Dual-band Wi-Fi.

    The company will produce webOS Hub 2.0 TVs in sizes ranging from 32 to 75 inches.

  • Sony Entertainment Television hikes KBC 14 ad rates by 15-20 per cent; witnesses return of marquee brands

    Sony Entertainment Television hikes KBC 14 ad rates by 15-20 per cent; witnesses return of marquee brands

    Mumbai: The longest-running knowledge-based game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) is returning to TV screens on 7 August for its fourteenth season. Throughout many seasons, KBC has emerged as the ‘go-to’ property for advertisers when it comes to maximizing brand presence & customer engagement.

    “The property is known for its undisputed honesty and credibility aids in achieving the desired objective for an advertiser through the customized solutions we create by understanding their needs,” Sony Pictures Networks India ad sales – network channels Sandeep Mehrotra told Indiantelevision.com. “This benefit certainly attracts clients who keep coming back with every season of KBC.”

    Channel to increase ad rates

    Mehrotra reveals that the Sony Entertainment Television channel is planning to increase the ad rates on the show by 15-20 per cent for the new season. It sees the return of marquee brands including Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Asian Paints, UltraTech Cement, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and Hyundai. Reputed brands like Asian Paints, UltraTech Cement and Hyundai have been associated with KBC for the past five, four and two years, respectively.

    The reason brands associate with KBC year after year is because of the show’s legacy and credibility which has helped it build a strong foundation and deliver value when it comes to brand solutions. Throughout the years, clients have seen its business objectives find the right brand solutions through KBC beyond just free commercial time (FCT).

    KBC is a much more digitally integrated show as compared to when it first started. The audience can engage with the game show on their smartphones via the Sonyliv app. The ‘KBC Play Along’ feature that combines the right mix of technology and gamification has added a personal engagement factor for the audience, getting them more involved in the game.

    “We are looking at creating value propositions for brands who are motivated to expand their reach on both linear and digital mediums, as it would benefit them in achieving their desired business objectives that have been set out,” said Mehrotra.

    He further said, “The show enjoys diverse participation from brand partners, season after season. KBC continues to attract positive responses from not only existing sponsors but new ones as well. Owing to the value proposition the show offers, the visibility adds weight to the sponsoring business.”

    Focusing on innovation and creativity

    This year’s season of KBC has innovated on two fronts, its marketing and programming. It is running a TV campaign that captures the transition of society from an information-scarce environment to an information overload which has created a need for a filter on solicited and unsolicited information that can translate to relevant knowledge.

    This messaging has been captured by the dialogue ‘Gyaan jahaan se bhi mile bator lijiye, lekin pehele zara tatol lijiye’ spoken by the show’s host Amitabh Bachchan in their commercials running on TV. The campaign cashes in on the show’s credibility and strengthens KBCs positioning as the leading game show on TV.

    The 14th season of KBC also coincides with India’s 75th year of independence and the channel has introduced a special episode that will air on 7 August at 9:00 p.m with special guests to bring alive the theme of India’s independence. Promos of the show aired on TV indicate that Padma Bhushan recipient actor Aamir Khan, Padma Bhushan boxing champion Mary Kom and Padma Shri Sunil Chhetri will be guests on the show. Kargil war veteran major DP Singh and Sena medal gallantry recipient Mitali Madhumita will appear as special guests.

    In terms of format changes, this year KBC contestants will win a prize pool of Rs 75 lakh or higher, which is expected to go up to Rs 7.5 crore. Additionally, after the success of the children’s special in the previous season, the current season will witness little geniuses taking the hot seat once again.

    “KBC 14 will be an integration of everything that has worked towards KBC’s success in the past and current innovations to the reality game-show format,” concluded Mehrotra.