Adrian Hallmark, CEO of Bentley since February 2018, is slated to depart the company in an agreement that is simultaneously voluntary and mutual. This exit comes with an interesting twist though. Hallmark, now 61, has chosen not to enjoy a quiet retirement in the leisure of a golf club but instead will be transitioning over to Aston Martin, a move that is stirring quite a buzz in the automotive industry.
Hallmark's anticipated departure is quite monumental and is set to decidedly impact matters at Crewe where he held his position. Hallmark assumed his place amid challenging business conditions and made his tenure remarkable by launching some superior Bentley models. Additionally, he also propelled the brand forward on the path to electrification through the introduction of diverse hybrid models. Even though there was an 11% drop in 2023, record sales in 2021 and 2022 are indicative of the positive influence Hallmark had on Bentley. He leaves the company in a much better state than when he joined, with his prowess highly recognized.
Aston Martin is readying for Hallmark to assume his position no later than October 1, 2024, succeeding Amedeo Felisa at Gaydon. Felisa, who has devoted a couple of years working at Gaydon and is now 78 years of age, has certainly earned a break from the labors of employment. In advance of this change, Felisa will complete the launch of revamped front-engined sports cars, with the groundbreaking Vantage set to launch in the subsequent month and a Roadster launch coming soon.
Shifting focus to Aston Martin, the brand is expected to greatly benefit from Bentley's loss. Hallmark, a CEO with extensive experience from working with a larger competitor, brings a richness of knowledge and know-how along with him. Aston Martin itself is facing a host of challenges including the successful launching of the mid-engined Valhalla hybrid and the DBX that is in urgent need of internal amelioration as seen in the DB12. Additionally, Hallmark will oversee the launch of a series of plug-in replacements for key models and potentially a few more V12s. Despite delays, an electric Aston Martin is also on the horizon, ensuring Hallmark's calendar remains packed.
Speaking of his new position, Hallmark expressed his enthusiasm for the transformation Aston Martin is undergoing, describing it as "one of the most exciting projects within the ultra-luxury automotive industry". He also shared his anticipation in utilizing his experience and passion to further tap into the brand’s potential and elevate its success. Lawrence Stroll, the Executive Chairman, reciprocated this sentiment saying, "In Adrian Hallmark, we are attracting one of the highest caliber leaders not just in our segment, but in the entire global automotive industry", augmenting Aston Martin with incomparable experience in both ultra-luxury automotive and British manufacturing sectors, thereby continuing the firm's excellent momentum.
While the exchanges for now seem civil and bordered on fondness, it can't be denied that this move signifies a significant overhaul of the leadership at two of the U.K.'s most treasured car manufacturers, not to mention an unexpectedly bustling Friday.
Reflecting on his time at Bentley, Hallmark stated, "To redefine luxury mobility for the future with such a strong brand is a task that I took on with full commitment and great pleasure”. Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Audi Board added, "Adrian Hallmark has achieved a great deal at Bentley…On the path to carbon-neutral electric vehicles in the luxury segment, he has taken important steps towards the long-term success of the company. I would like to thank Adrian Hallmark for his significant commitment over the last years and wish him well in his personal and professional future”. Although the transition may cause a measure of discontent, it also creates an opportunity for new leadership to rise at Bentley amidst an essential phase of change for the company. Particularly following news that the first EV has been postponed, and plug-in hybrids persist.
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BYD India has officially unveiled its latest electric offering, the eMax 7 MPV, poised to disrupt the Indian electric vehicle market. Priced from Rs 26.9 lakh to Rs 29.9 lakh, this versatile three-row electric multi-purpose vehicle is set to challenge established players like the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid.
The BYD eMax 7 MPV sets a new benchmark in the Indian electric vehicle market, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and innovation. With its competitive pricing and feature-packed variants, BYD is poised to strengthen its foothold in the Indian automotive landscape.
Ducati has unveiled two exciting new models in their Scrambler series for 2025: the Full Throttle and the Icon Dark. These motorcycles blend classic aesthetics with modern features, appealing to enthusiasts worldwide.
The revamped Full Throttle takes inspiration from Ducati's rich racing history, featuring:
Although specific prices for the new Scrambler models have not been revealed, Ducati's range caters to diverse consumer needs, with bikes priced from ₹15 lakh to over ₹45 lakh. The official launch of the Scrambler Full Throttle and Icon Dark is set for 2025.
Ducati's revamped Scrambler models promise to captivate enthusiasts with their unique blend of style, performance, and heritage. Stay tuned for further updates as Ducati prepares to roll out these exciting models.
Triumph Motorcycles has officially unveiled its latest motocross innovation, the TF 450-RC, a bike designed to dominate the motocross landscape. Developed in collaboration with motocross legend Ricky Carmichael and world enduro champion Iván Cervantes, this 450cc motocross bike promises to captivate professionals and enthusiasts alike. ###Engine and Performance
####The TF 450-RC boasts a strong yet lightweight chassis, including:
The TF 450-RC signifies Triumph's commitment to the motocross market, rivaling industry leaders like KTM, Honda, and Yamaha. Although deliveries begin in February, the bike will not be introduced in the Indian market due to low demand.
The Triumph TF 450-RC motocross bike embodies engineering excellence, blending champion expertise with cutting-edge technology. With its perfect balance of power, agility, and durability, this bike is poised to dominate the global motocross arena.
Yamaha is set to revolutionize the motorcycle world with the highly anticipated launch of the YZF-R9 on October 9. The company's recent teaser video has sparked excitement among enthusiasts, promising "The Dawn of a New Era" in sports biking.
####Although the teaser didn't fully reveal the bike, it showcased:
Yamaha's MT-09 variants (standard, Y-AMT, and SP) may inspire the R9's lineup. The innovative Y-AMT technology, which automates clutch and gear shifts, could be integrated into the R9.
The Yamaha YZF-R9 promises to captivate riders worldwide with its blend of performance, technology, and style. As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds for this groundbreaking addition to Yamaha's lineup.
The 2024 Paris Motor Show is set to witness the unveiling of Renault's highly anticipated Bigster SUV, courtesy of its sister company, Dacia. This eagerly awaited model is expected to make its way to Indian shores, accompanied by a Nissan counterpart.
####The Bigster will compete with prominent models such as:
In a remarkable display of consumer enthusiasm, the MG Windsor EV has garnered an impressive 15,176 bookings within just 24 hours of its launch on October 3. This overwhelming response underscores the growing demand for electric mobility in India and cements the Windsor EV's position as a pioneering force in the country's electric vehicle market.
The Windsor EV is available under the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, with prices ranging from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 11.99 lakh, offering a running cost of Rs 3.5 per km. The vehicle is also available for purchase, starting at Rs 13.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Three distinct variants – Excite, Essence, and Exclusive – cater to diverse customer preferences.
####The Windsor EV prioritizes safety with:
According to Satinder Singh Bajwa, Chief Commercial Officer at JSW MG Motor India, "The MG Windsor's success solidifies its position as a progressive force in India's electric vehicle market. We remain committed to delivering innovative, intelligent, and eco-friendly mobility solutions."
Although the Windsor EV lacks direct competition, it faces challenges from models like the Tata Nexon EV, Curvv EV, and Mahindra XUV400. Its unique features and competitive pricing position it as a strong contender in India's burgeoning electric vehicle segment.
With deliveries set to commence on October 12, 2024, the MG Windsor EV is poised to revolutionize India's electric vehicle landscape. Its impressive bookings and innovative features underscore the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
BMW has introduced the i7 eDrive50, a new variant of its luxury electric sedan lineup in India, replacing the previous i7 xDrive60 model. Priced at Rs 2.03 crore (ex-showroom), this single-motor version offers a more affordable entry point into the luxury electric vehicle market.
The i7 eDrive50 maintains most of the design elements of the xDrive60, with noticeable alterations including the addition of a spare wheel. Key features include:
The i7 eDrive50 employs a single motor configuration paired with a 101.7kWh lithium-ion battery, generating:
The BMW i7 competes with luxury electric vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580, Porsche Taycan, and Audi e-tron GT. The top-spec i7 M70 xDrive variant is priced at Rs 2.50 crore (ex-showroom).
The BMW i7 eDrive50 offers a more accessible entry point into the luxury electric vehicle market, combining stunning design, impressive performance, and advanced features. With its competitive pricing and impressive specs, the i7 eDrive50 is set to make a significant impact in the Indian luxury electric vehicle market.
Volkswagen India has expanded its Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV lineups with the introduction of two new trim levels: GT Line and GT Plus Sport. These additions bring enhanced features, sporty designs, and premium upgrades to the existing models.
Positioned between Highline and Topline trims, the Highline Plus variant adds:
The Virtus lineup now ranges from ₹11.56 lakh to ₹19.41 lakh, while the Taigun's pricing spans from ₹11.70 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom prices).
Volkswagen's new trims and feature enhancements strengthen the Virtus and Taigun's positions in the Indian market. With sporty designs, premium features, and competitive pricing, these models are set to attract buyers seeking style, performance, and value.
