All eyes are on Delhi where the sprawling Pragati Maidan is all set to host the five-day Auto Expo 2012, reckoned the second largest automotive event in Asia in terms of its popularity and magnitude after the Shanghai Show, from January 7.

The countdown for the 11th Auto Expo to be held in New Delhi during January 5-11 has begun. A massive overseas participation, bigger contingents from Germany and China, and a strong presence of Indian manufacturers have all resulted in complete booking of space at the venue with 16 halls, 10 hangers and the outdoor space in total comprising 1,15,000 sq. meters.

Auto Expo is a platform for automobile manufacturers to showcase future technologies and innovations. Ashok Leyland has always presented interesting products at the expo. However, some of them have not gone beyond the conceptual stage. But Auto Expo 2012 is going to be different.

Here is probably the biggest launch of a new range of heavy buses at Auto Expo 2012. Volvo is not only raising the standards in its current segment but is now well set to bring in a new coach aimed at the second tier of routes and cities in India.

Tata Motors has launched the Tata Divo, a luxurious long-distance inter-city travel bus, and the Tata Starbus Ultra, a modern and practical offering for commuting within the city.

The Tata Motors Group’s global wholesales, including Jaguar Land Rover, touched 108,028 units in November, higher by 35 per cent over November 2010.

Ashok Leyland, together with its associate companies, will increase its stake in the British bus maker, Optare plc, to 75.1 per cent, subject to approval by the shareholders of Optare, under a re-financing agreement announced on December 20.

Mahindra Navistar Automotives Ltd. (MNAL) of the $14.4 billion Mahindra Group, honoured the heroes of the Indian transportation industry by presenting them the first-ever Mahindra Navistar Transport Excellence Awards 2011 at a glittering ceremony held in New Delhi. The Awardees were recognised for their Outperformance, Excellence, Innovation and Change Leadership in the Transport Ecosystem – values which embodies the spirit of MNAL.