Latest news with #Qualis
Time of India
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Revving up excitement: Automobile aficionados flock to Times Mobility Utsav in Hubballi
Hubballi: The Times Mobility Utsav, organised by The Times of India at Hotel Naveen, Hubballi, is attracting automobile enthusiasts. Inaugurating the two-day Utsav, Basavaraj Horatti, chairman of the Karnataka legislative council, slipped into nostalgia, sharing that he has retained his three cars since 1983. "My first purchase was an Ambassador, which I still use often. Since it is my lucky car, I use it during my election campaigns. Later, I bought an Innova in 2007 and a Qualis in 2014. Though I own advanced cars now, my sentiments do not allow me to part with the older ones," he shared. He visited all the stalls and launched Tata's all new Altroz car for the first time in North Karnataka. He attentively listened to the new technologies and facilities installed in the new cars. Being a farmer, he appreciated cars like Isuzu's S-Cab Z, which is meant for tough jobs, and Toyota's Hilux. Police commissioner N Shashi kumar observed the safety measures in modern cars and said customers should understand the safety features installed in their vehicles. "Nowadays, almost all automobile companies are giving priority to safety and security. Such expos are useful to sensitise customers on the same," he commented. MLA Mahesh Tenginakai Was delighted to see Royal Enfield bikes, including models like the Classic 350 and Bullet 350. He sat on them and enjoyed the updated versions of the bikes. He enthusiastically enquired about the Volvo C40 Recharge and XC60 cars. He also checked out Mercedes' New GLA car for its comfort level. Former CM and Belagavi sitting MP Jagadish Shettar commented that the expo saves customers from visiting various showrooms. "As they get information on all vehicles under one roof, it will be easy for them to choose a vehicle as per their need and taste," he opined. Serial entrepreneur Naveen Jha commented that such expos boost the automobile industry and the economy of the region. "Especially youngsters have an opportunity to see electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. Apart from all companies' stalls, the stall of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is helpful to check the authenticity of the product with ISI mark, Hallmark, BIS certification, and it also shares information on how to register a complaint regarding the quality of products or misuse of the mark," he shared. Satish Patil, a high school teacher, said the expo conveyed that even middle-class people can own a car within their budget. "As Canara Bank has also installed a stall, bank officials explained the loan facility," he noted. Ather company attracted people by showcasing its e-bike Ritza, while Maruti Suzuki displayed the Nexa Jimmy 4-seater and Baleno. Other cars like BMW The 3, The X3; External, Urban Cruiser, Hyryder, and Mahindra's BE6 were displayed at the expo. Sunday Last Day The Times Mobility Utsav is a unique platform, bringing together leading automobile brands to showcase their latest models to the right customers, all under one roof. From luxury vehicles, SUVs, MUVs, and mid-size sedans to bikes, EVs, scooters, and fuel-efficient passenger vehicles, the expo is featuring over 15 top automobile brands. Canara Bank is offering attractive financing options for buyers during the expo, which will close on Sunday by 6 pm at Naveen Hotel.
India Today
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Toyota Vellfire review, first drive: Game of thrones
The Vellfire has always held a special place in my heart, not only because I am a fan of Toyota cars in general, but because it was one of the first few cars I had the privilege to review early in my career, back when it first arrived in the country. I distinctly remember driving the previous generation Vellfire at Toyota's test track in their Bidadi plant, and taking loop after loop at their figure-of-eight-shaped course. My younger mind, obsessed with speed and power, couldn't clearly comprehend this opulent MPV's purpose. After several rounds, in the driving seat and then shifting to the second row, it hit me like a strong gust of cold wind on a warm summer day. Toyota's idea with the Vellfire is to provide a people carrier for the wealthy. In fact, not just the wealthy, but for those who already have at least a couple of cars in the garage. It's for those who want to go from point A to B in ultimate luxury and believe it or not, practically. Toyota has a very good handle on how to make a good MPV or people carrier, just take the Qualis and Innova as examples, and all becomes crystal clear. In that respect, the Vellfire should be an extension of that experience. Before diving headfirst into those comfortable second-row seats, which is undoubtedly the business end of things for a car of this type, let's talk about all that's changed from the previous generation. At the rear, the Vellfire's design is a simpler and the blue tint are now replaced with the regular one. advertisementDesign of VellfireThe first thing you'll notice is that massive front grille, which is reminiscent of the Toyota Land Cruiser. The 'three lens' headlamp and DRL setup is also more snug than before there are also those large design elements just above the fog lamps. Around the sides, the new Vellfire gets 19-inch alloy wheels, as opposed to the 17-inch alloy wheels on the previous generation with the silver finish. There's also a Z-shaped element on the B-pillar, which looks particularly distinctive. At the rear, the overall design is a little simpler than before, and elements like the Toyota logo with a blue tint are now replaced with the regular one. The housing for the tail lamps also gets coloured treatment instead of the clear ones on the older model, and the reflectors are mounted vertically rather than horizontally. The design of the rear lights themselves has been reworked to look simpler and more approachable. The Z-shaped element on the B-pillar on the Vellfire are distinctive. advertisementOn the whole, the design language feels a lot more cohesive and not as busy as the older model. However, it retains its imposing stance, thanks to its large dimensions, especially in terms of height. The Vellfire we got for our test was finished in the 'Platinum Pearl White' paint job, and there are two others to choose from, called 'Black' and 'Precious Metal'. Honestly, the black looks like a more impressive colour, more menacing too. Ottoman seats, plenty of storage spaces, but the beige colour isn't to my taste. It can start to age fairly early on, and smudges are visible as well. Comfort of Vellfire Usually, this would be the point to get in the front seat and speak about the driving experience, but that's for later. First, let's tackle the second row of seats. Apart from the screens for each of the passengers in the second row and larger AC vents, space at the rear has been increased by 5mm for the second row and 10mm for the third row. There's also a new colour for the trim called 'Sunset Brown', and it continues to have 'Natural Beige' and 'Black' options. Then there's the 'Super-Long Overhead Console', which is Toyota jargon for the large console fitted to the roof, and a 14-inch screen which folds open on starting up, both new to the Vellfire. There are individual moonroof shades on each side, which can be operated independently and add to the Vellfire's business-class appeal. The aforementioned console also houses the controls for each of the electrically operated doors, air conditioning and sun shades. There are also plenty of cubby holes and grab handles for storage as well as ingress and egress. The ventilation, positioning and memory functions can be controlled via the physical switches on the insides of the seats, and can be an issue for slightly larger individuals. The aforementioned pull-down side sun blinds were the first to ever be produced by Toyota, when this car was first launched in 2023. The smartphone-like screens can detach and used to control massage, ventilation and positioning, The two smartphone-like screens, which can be detached from their place and used to control the massage functions, ventilation and positioning as well, just to name a few. That's not all, there are folding tables, which fold out from the armrest and sit in front of the passenger, and are good for keeping things, but a laptop won't really fit on it comfortably. On the plus side, it further opens up to show a vanity mirror and a grippy surface to avoid slippage on the move. The third row of seats are also fairly impressive, and it won't be an issue given the ergonomics and space on offer. However, with all three rows up, there's not too much in the way of boot space. But, fold the third row, and it opens up a decent amount of space. To sum up, this is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. One of comfort, space and accessible luxury. It's not dripping in gold, but it's as close as it gets. 1. The digital driver's display is new to the Vellfire, and has a similar layout to the Camry, which is also petrol-hybrid. Instead of a tachometer, there's a different approach based on efficiency. Different drive modes bring about different layouts. 2. Most usable part of the overhead console for the second row passenger is the controls. Feels sturdy but not exactly premium. 3. There's a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which feels modern and up-to-date. 4. Yet another 14-inch screen for rear passengers gets an HDMI port. advertisementChanges of VellfireI am well aware that the vast majority of Vellfire owners will, in all likelihood, not be driving it, but it's important to speak about the experience irrespective. In terms of changes, there's a new steering wheel and a wrap-around design element to the dashboard as a whole, which looks quite opulent, almost Lexus-like in some ways. There's also a bigger 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver's display, along with 15 JBL speakers. Apart from this, the centre AC vents are now stacked horizontally, and the ignition button has been moved to the left-hand side, right next to the steering wheel. The Vellfire does away some physical buttons, has a smaller gear selector that slots into place easier. advertisementThere were a lot more physical buttons that have been done away with, and the gear selector is now smaller and easier to slot into place, compared to the older one with steps to it. From a seating position perspective, this feels less van-like compared to the previous generation. If I had one of these, and I had to pop into the front to drive it every now and then, I wouldn't mind in the slightest. The steering controls feel light and easy to manage, and the Vellfire has a pretty impressive turning circle as well. Although the steering itself is quite large, it's not difficult to handle, but I did find the controls mounted on it puzzling. Once again, from a look and feel perspective, this feels good, but I wouldn't call it great. It's functional with a hint of luxury. The Vellfire derives its power from a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, petrol hybrid powertrain that produces 193bhp and 240Nm of peak torque. advertisementPerformance of VellfireThe Vellfire continues to be powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, petrol hybrid powertrain, which churns out 193bhp and 240Nm of peak torque. There's also a 182bhp electric motor, which takes the total power output to 250bhp. It's underpinned by the TNGA-K platform, which the company claims offers enhanced rigidity by 50 per cent over the third-generation models. Honestly, it did feel slightly more comfortable than the older Vellfire, but there is still room for improvement. On sharper undulations, the Vellfire's size can be felt in the second row. One has to learn to be extremely slow on speed breakers and a bad patch of road. However, if one is on a highway, and the going is smooth, this people carrier makes going fairly straightforward and polished. The engine itself does its job, but that's about it. It's not exciting or vigorous in any way, and is more of a tool than a weapon. Just like other hybrids, it switches between electric and petrol power, depending on the driving conditions. If one is in the mood to push, the engine and tyre noise can be heard quite clearly in the front, which feels pointless. It's best to just take it down a notch, concentrate on the job at hand, and deliver the rear passengers in easement. The Vellfire does not offer a lot of boot space with all three rows up but folding the third row opens up some decent space. VerdictIt's hard to fault a car that doesn't really have rivals in the truest sense. Sure, there is the Lexus LM, but that costs almost double, and there is the Kia Carnival, which costs almost half as much as the Vellfire. In my book, the Vellfire is for the discerning customer who understands the value proposition of a Toyota and wants a vehicle that provides a hassle-free owning experience. It doesn't quite have the brand value of a Lexus or German luxury brands, but it is meant to do its job to the utmost with maximum comfort. In its latest avatar, it feels like an improved product, and although I would've preferred a sub 1 crore price tag, those who've owned a Vellfire will, with all certainty, go out and buy the latest one in the market. Those with an Innova looking to upgrade, this is the answer. Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
BBC News
23-04-2025
- General
- BBC News
Council apologises for wailing Epping car park alarm
A council has apologised after a fire alarm rang for more than six hours next to a retirement home on Easter alarm at Cottis Yard multi-storey car park in Epping, Essex, has sounded on several occasions over the past few months, according to one neighbour, Maureen Cannon, 92, who lives in the Bakers' Villas retirement complex, has a perforated eardrum and said she hid in her bathroom to get away from the Epping Forest District Council spokesperson apologised for the disturbance, first reported by Everything Epping Forest, saying: "The alarm should not have been going off for as long as it did." Describing the noise, Ms Cannon said: "It was terribly loud... I suppose that's what it's meant to do... distract you."Janet Hedges, 78, said: "It does go right through you, because it wakes you up and you think 'Ooh, what's happened?'"People come in and try and calm you down."Eileen Kelly, 92, said the alarm sounded for "a long while", adding that she thought it was supposed to indicate an emergency."It does affect you because you wonder what it is: 'Why is it going off? Have we got some trouble somewhere?'" she said. Robert Born, 67, who lives about 200 yards (180m) away on Buttercross Lane, said the alarm had blared "six or seven times" over the last nine months."It hasn't got an automatic cut-out. It has gone on for 11 hours continuously once, but normally it's about one to two hours," he said there had been a "far worse" incident previously when the alarm started late on a Friday evening."[Of] course, everyone has gone home from the council," he said."The car park is still merrily ringing away at eight o' clock the next morning."You can't go outside when this thing's going on, because it's going through your head." This month, the council took back ownership of the car park from Qualis, a company that it owns.A council spokesperson said the authority had been "working hard" to fix the alarm system, reducing the number of instances it went off and trying to "respond in a timely manner" whenever it did. Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
