I read a query about pursuing a career in racing. I have the same question, but I also want to know if there are any institutes that teach racing skills and techniques? -Vedant Agarwal
Ex-F3 racer Akbar Ebrahim runs a racing academy under the name Meco Motorsport. It can help you start with karting, single-seaters or saloon cars, depending on the discipline you are inclined towards.
There are other factors though, like age, commitment and goals. You can get in touch with Rasheed +91 95512 81111 for details about the various programmes and schedules. The Indian racing season typically starts in June, so you should act quickly if you want to be in reasonable shape to make it to the grid this year.
I have just booked a Chevrolet Cruze and wanted to know if it comes with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in India and if it's suited for the quality of fuel available here. - Krishna Prasad
The Cruze does not come with a DPF. Hence the engine is compatible with diesel all over the country, provided there are no high levels of adulteration. Most cars in India meet the current emission norms without a DPF. But as we move to more stringent emission controls (Stage V for metros and Stage IV for non-metros), then a DPF will be mandatory for most diesel engines.
{{/usCountry}}The Cruze does not come with a DPF. Hence the engine is compatible with diesel all over the country, provided there are no high levels of adulteration. Most cars in India meet the current emission norms without a DPF. But as we move to more stringent emission controls (Stage V for metros and Stage IV for non-metros), then a DPF will be mandatory for most diesel engines.
{{/usCountry}}I want a diesel automatic saloon that fits in my budget of R10-15 lakh. Which launches are expected this year? My criteria are good service, low maintenance, good ride and resale value. -Sanghavi Shitalkumar
There is just one diesel automatic that suits your price range and it's the Hyundai Verna. It's extremely refined, reliable and easy to maintain. The ride isn't very good at high speeds, but for most purposes, it's comfortable enough.
I'm looking to buy a bike, and have narrowed down my choices to the Hero MotoCorp Karizma ZMR and Royal Enfield Thunderbird. Which of the two is better? Should I wait for some other new arrivals in the segment? -Mayank
Yes, the Hero Honda Karizma ZMR is a good bike and a better bike in comparison to the Royal Enfield T'bird. You can safely go ahead and buy the ZMR if waiting is not an option for you. However, a new Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 has been unveiled at the recent Auto Expo. However, you should wait for our road test verdict on this-we could then tell you whether the T'bird makes more sense in your case.
Autocar India