You might have learned that this car from the latest movie ’Kalki 2898 AD’ is not CGI but was built for the film. But why is it a big deal?

Background of the movie

“Kalki 2898 AD” is an upcoming Indian science fiction film directed by Nag Ashwin. The movie is set to be one of the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema, featuring a star-studded cast and a significant budget. The story spans over 6,000 years, starting with the events of the Mahabharata and extending into the future, set in 2898 AD. Director Nag Ashwin emphasized that the movie aims to create an authentic Indian sci-fi experience without relying heavily on CGI, opting instead for practical effects and massive set designs​.

What’s so special about this car?

This gigantic machine was jointly designed and developed by Mahindra Research Valley and Jayem Automotive Coimbatore. Bujji is a single seater rear wheel drive vehicle which weighs over 6 tonnes and has 3 very special wheels. The rear axle itself weighs about 3 tonnes.

Anand Mahindra tweeted about the car stating that “Our team in Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai helped the Kalki team realize its vision for a futuristic vehicle by simulating the powertrain configuration, architecture and performance. In fact, the vehicle runs on two Mahindra e-motors powering the rear spherical wheel! And Jayem Automotives put it all together. Let the games begin”

Let’s also talk about the design a bit, in the story the main character builds this car from scrap materials and therefore they intentionally decided to keep a rough and unfinished look for it. As the director Nag Ashwin said, they did not want it to look like a factory-made batmobile. Looking at the trailer and promotional videos it surely feels like they have achieved the desired look.

Specifications

The vehicle is completely electric with two Mahindra e-motors. Bujji is powered by a robust 47kWh battery setup, which churns out a maximum power of 94 kW or 126 bhp and 9800 Nm of peak torque. This huge torque is justified considering the weight of the car. The top speed of this car reaches up to 45 km/hr.

The cost of making the Bujji is said to be about 4 Cr rupees.

The car contains a lot of custom-made things such as the single-wheel rear axle and the fact that the car is steered from the back and not the front wheels. The steering system was custom and the rear suspension has custom-made coil springs and dampers to support the rear axle weighing about 3 tons.

The custom wheels need a special mention too

The hub less tyres were made specially to achieve a futuristic look for the car.

The rim size of these gigantic wheels is 34.5 inches and the tyres were specially developed by CEAT.

The rims are made up of aluminum alloy and are mounted on taper roller bearings.

Now it is natural to wonder how one would steer such a heavy wheel, so let’s talk about the steering system a bit.

It has an electro-hydraulic steering. An Electric power steering systems use an electric motor to directly assist the steering. Hydraulic power steering systems use an engine-driven pump to supply hydraulic fluid, whereas electro-hydraulic systems use an electric motor to drive a pump that supplies hydraulic fluid. You might have heard of power steering which is generally the electric power steering. Basically, in Bujji, the fluids will make the job of steering the huge wheels feel like any other car.

This car has brought smiles and excitement to a lot of faces. If Hollywood can do it, why can’t we? The Kalki team has definitely set some new standards not just for the films but also for the automotive innovations in India.

The prospect of a brand-new Formula 1 (F1) track in India has sent a thrill through the hearts of motorsports enthusiasts. This ambitious project in the GIFT City in Gujarat, isn’t just a place for high energy race weekend but an interesting opportunity for an economic boom. How will the F1 track shape the future of GIFT city and India? Let’s dive into it in the following article.

History of F1 in India, the spectacular 3 races at BIC

India’s tryst with F1 wasn’t without its share of drama. The Buddh International Circuit (BIC) near Delhi held the Indian Grand Prix for three consecutive years, from 2011 to 2013. The event was a resounding success, garnering immense interest.

The circuit hosted over 10000 F1 enthusiasts who enjoyed the the three thrilling races. Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing won all three Indian GPs in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Jaypee Group, a prominent Indian infrastructure company, played a pivotal role in bringing F1 to India. They secured the rights to host the Indian Grand Prix and were responsible for the construction of the Buddh International Circuit. While the initial years were a spectacle, logistical challenges and concerns about commercial viability led to the discontinuation of the race after the 2013 season.

But what is GIFT city?

Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) is an ambitious project of the Gujrat State and Central Government. It is strategically located near Gandhinagar, Gujarat, placing it close to the state’s capital and Ahmedabad, a major commercial center.

While a complete timeline is yet to be announced, estimates suggest the project will be fully operational by 2028. The upcoming F1 track is a significant milestone, with a targeted completion date around the same time.

One of the key attractions for businesses is GIFT City’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) status. This translates into significant tax benefits, including:

1. Exemption on income tax for ten of the first fifteen years of the companies’ choice (sunrise tax exemption) and concessional tax rates thereafter.

2. Minimal customs duties on imports.

3. Exemption on service tax, DDT, SST etc.

These benefits significantly reduce operational and startup costs, especially for new ventures getting started in a new geography, making GIFT City an attractive proposition for domestic and international companies alike.

GIFT City’s development is a testament to Gujarat’s aspirations to become a global financial hub. With its world-class infrastructure, tax advantages, and diverse business ecosystem, GIFT City is poised to be a major economic driver for the state and India as a whole.

Let’s talk money

While the official construction cost of the F1 track in GIFT City is yet to be finalized, estimates suggest it could range between ₹5,000 crore and ₹10,000 crore (approximately $600 million to $1.2 billion). This significant investment, however, is expected to generate substantial returns in the long run.

1. Tourism Boom: Filling Hotel Rooms and Boosting Local Businesses

A single F1 race weekend can attract hundreds of thousands of spectators, both domestic and international. Consider the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, which drew a record-breaking crowd of over 300,000. Even a conservative estimate suggests an F1 race in India could attract at least 150,000 visitors. These visitors translate to increased revenue for hotels, restaurants, taxis, and local shops. Studies by F1 suggest a single race weekend can generate an economic impact of around $300 million for the host city.

2. Sponsorship Windfall: A Platform for Global Brands

F1 is a sport synonymous with high-profile sponsorships. Global brands fight for space on cars, team uniforms, and trackside advertising. A 2023 report by Nielsen Sports estimated the value of F1 sponsorships to be around $1.5 billion annually. With an Indian F1 race, domestic brands will have a unique opportunity to rub shoulders with international giants, reaching a global audience. This not only injects significant capital into the project but also elevates GIFT City’s profile, potentially attracting further investments.

3. Infrastructure Development: Building a Foundation for Growth

The construction of an F1 track necessitates the development of top-notch supporting infrastructure. This includes improved transportation networks, upgraded hospitality facilities, and potentially the creation of a dedicated entertainment zone around the track. Experts estimate that infrastructure development associated with the F1 track could cost around ₹2,000 crore (approximately $250 million). While this is a significant investment, it will not only cater to the needs of the race weekend but also provide long-term benefits for GIFT City and the surrounding areas. Improved transportation links will enhance connectivity, attracting businesses and residents. Upgraded hospitality facilities can cater to conferences, exhibitions, and other events throughout the year, ensuring year-round economic activity.

4. Job Creation: From Construction Crews to Hospitality Staff

The construction phase of the F1 circuit itself is estimated to create tens of thousands of jobs for skilled and unskilled workers. This provides a much-needed boost to the local economy, offering employment opportunities in construction, engineering, and logistics. Additionally, the influx of tourists and the rise in business activity will lead to the creation of new jobs in sectors like hospitality, retail, and transportation. A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers for the 2016 Australian Grand Prix estimated the event created over 1,800 jobs. Scaling this to the Indian context, an F1 race in India could create over 3,000 jobs across various sectors.

In conclusion, the construction of an F1 track in GIFT City holds a new era of economic growth and global recognition for India. Beyond the adrenaline-fueled excitement of racing, this project is a testament to India’s ambition to position itself at the top of global sports and entertainment along significant economic development in the region.

It will aid in creating a platform for showcasing technological advancements, fostering tourism, and generating substantial economic benefits. The F1 track in GIFT City is a catalyst for job creation, infrastructure development, and attracting investments, thereby stimulating overall economic growth in the region.

Furthermore, the development of an F1 track demonstrates India’s commitment to fostering a culture of sports and leisure, encouraging participation, and talent development, and creating a vibrant ecosystem for motorsports enthusiasts. This will enhance India’s overall global position in the dynamic world of Formula 1.

An article by — 
Aniket Thakare and Shubham Pingale

Forget car races. Forget engineering marvels. Formula 1 isn’t just about the roar of the engines and the cutting-edge technology. Formula 1 is an adrenaline-pumping assault on your senses. It’s a symphony of screaming engines, blurring colors, and the gut-wrenching G-forces that push drivers to the limit. Every race is a high-stakes chess match where precision engineering meets death-defying speed. It’s an unforgettable spectacle that blends thrills you won’t find anywhere else with the timeless pursuit of perfection. But amidst the chaos, a quest for perfection transcends time, weaving through the fabric of Formula 1’s rich history.

How did F1 start?

The European Motor Racing Championship had sowed the seeds of F1, which formally took shape in the early 1950s. This competition became the epitome of cutting-edge innovation and technology in no time. Top-level engineering and high-adrenal races defined what it was, gradually transforming F1 into the most prestigious and thrilling sports event ever.

However, even beyond all this, Formula 1 plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of commercial cars and the entire automotive industry. Many examples bear testimony to the same. For instance, Dunlop developed disc brakes in the 1950s, initially adopted only in F1 by Cooper before becoming the industry standard. Today, the brake discs used in Formula One cars can heat up to over 1000 degrees, comparable to molten lava, a feat considered entirely impossible and mind-boggling. On the other hand, McLaren partnered with Bosch to develop the first Anti-lock braking system for F1 in the 1980s, which too crept into commercial vehicles soon enough. Traction and stability control, pioneered by Bosch, constitutes another such instance.

Many other novel technologies developed and refined in Formula 1 have often found their way into mainstream vehicles, improving fuel efficiency, safety, and overall performance.

Separate from industry-changing innovations, marketing is another essential aspect of F1 worth shedding some light upon. From 2010 to 2018, F1 sponsors paid $17.8 billion, of which Ferrari’s cut was 11.8%. The flow of capital from its sponsors makes F1 independent from the industry, redefining its relationship with Research and Development. For instance, Formula 1 brought in a total of $2.57 billion in 2022, driven by record attendance and expanded global viewership. This degree of autonomy is indispensable for many bold steps and brave changes that F1 has taken over the decades. To this end, several sponsorships and marketing-based events are organized each season.

Similarly, the other side of the coin is also gleamy. It is in the interest of most companies to tap into the vast fan following of F1 to advertise and market their products and services, more so given the fans of F1 are primarily from an affluent enough background with good enough purchasing power to be their prospective customers. Car manufacturers look at F1 as a marketing tool, hoping winning teams will make their cars more appealing to people. For example, in 2019, Mercedes’ parent company, Daimler, put $80 million into the team to help them in the Constructors Championship. Rebranding of teams and partnerships are, again, several crucial ways through which brands can claim viewer attention to the teams they sponsor. These, in turn, can go anywhere between 150 million dollars and 200 million dollars, providing help in advertising. A recent case would be the rebranding of AlphaTauri, a team under Red Bull, to Visa Cash App RB. This would come into effect from the 2024 season amid a change in the team’s senior management and a revised philosophy as they strive to improve their competitiveness.

The Introduction of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the Challenge to F1

In recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a significant shift towards Electric Vehicles (EVs) due to a huge hue and cry for sustainability. However, this transition poses a challenge to F1, as the sport has traditionally been associated with high-performance, fuel-consuming engines. The image of F1 as an environmentally friendly and sustainable endeavor is under scrutiny, especially with the growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints.

Formula E as a Competitor

Formula E, the electric counterpart of Formula Racing, has emerged as a direct competitor in motorsports, with the first-ever Formula E race taking place at the Beijing Olympic Green Circuit on 13 September 2014. With a primary focus on sustainability and eco-friendly racing, Formula E caters to the changing preferences of a global audience of 344 million increasingly leaning towards electric vehicles. In stark contrast to the thunderous roar of traditional F1 engines, the silent hum of electric motors symbolizes a paradigm shift in the automotive landscape.

Tackling the EV Challenge: F1’s Strategic Response

Recognizing these potential threats, Formula 1 has been proactive in taking steps to tackle these challenges. Their strategy involves embracing sustainable technologies to align with the growing demand for eco-friendly practices, redefining itself as a platform for high-performance racing and a leader in environmental responsibility within the sports industry.

Fun Facts: The Mercedes 1.6l V6 Twin Turbo engine produces about 800 horsepower, while the 6l engine of the Lamborghini Aventador gives around 700 horsepower.

Although V8 engines were used till 2013 in F1, an environmentally driven decision to shift to V6 from the 2014 season induced a massive drop in interest among regular fans. Undeniably, though, this led to a 40% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the V8 era, which reduced over 250,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per season, which is quite a margin! However, one can expect this accompanying hit in viewership to be embellished by orders of magnitudes when a complete shift from combustion to mostly silent EVs rips the competition out of its thrill and essence.

Formula 1 cars are powered by a combination of a 1.6-litre V6 turbocharged engine and battery power, which produces more than 1000bhp. In contrast, a Formula E race car is fully electric, using batteries and electric motors that generate over 350 kilowatts, or the equivalent of 470bhp, less than half of what an F1 car is capable of. Thus, F1 must investigate other ways to teach sustainable technologies into the sport, like developing hybrid power units, exploring alternative fuels, and optimizing aerodynamics to enhance energy efficiency. The goal is to maintain the thrilling aspects of F1 while reducing its environmental impact.

Teams like Red Bull Racing and Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN are already incorporating recycled carbon fiber into their cars, with Red Bull reporting a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions from using recycled materials.

F1 implemented route optimization and freight consolidation, achieving a 15% reduction in transport-related CO2 emissions between 2018 and 2022. In 2022, the Austrian Grand Prix achieved a 90% waste diversion rate from landfill, exceeding F1’s target of 75%. Several tracks, like Spielberg and Silverstone, have switched to 100% renewable energy sources to power their facilities.

Electric vehicles might not be the only future we are looking at; other options, like hybrid engines and even more efficient fuel usage, can be good domains to look into. By not shifting to a complete EV setup, F1 would compel the participating teams to keep improving their current powertrains, making them more efficient, sustainable, and futuristic in the process, which in turn can generate new inroads into these technologies that can potentially then be translated to the consumer market just like all other F1-driven changes.

Moreover, by 2026, F1 aims for fully sustainable biofuels that will deliver a lifecycle CO2 reduction of at least 65% compared to current fossil fuels, and all the fuel components will be derived from sustainable sources — either non-food-bio-derived, from genuine municipal waste or from sustainable carbon capture.

Following the same lines, marketing strategies in F1 now include highlighting the sport’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing innovations that benefit society, and emphasizing the human element of racing. Engaging fans through social media, immersive experiences, and other interactive events is vital to this approach.

Many targets and aims have been put forward for this cause by F1. Achieving net zero carbon status by 2030 and having a cent per cent sustainable fuel for powering vehicles are essential milestones in that direction. Partnering with host countries to implement sustainable practices and supporting local communities are other noteworthy measures the competition takes.

Admittedly, there are still hurdles on the track, but the progress is undeniable. F1 racing teams use ‘E10 fuel’, essentially high-performance petrol with a 10% bio-ethanol blend. F1 has also earned top marks for its environmental efforts and has implemented initiatives to reduce waste and promote recycling.

Will It Work? The Uncertain Path Ahead:

The success of F1’s strategic response remains uncertain and hinges on several factors. While embracing sustainable technologies is a positive step, finding the right balance between tradition and innovation is crucial. Striking a chord with fans who have grown accustomed to the thunderous sound of traditional engines while appealing to a new audience focused on sustainability presents a delicate challenge.

The Future of F1: A Crossroads and an Opportunity:

In conclusion, Formula 1 indeed finds itself at a crossroads at the current time. The ever-evolving automotive landscape demands adaptation, and F1 has the opportunity to lead this change. By embracing innovation, emphasizing sportsmanship, revolutionizing marketing strategies, and engaging fans, Formula 1 can navigate the challenges posed by the EV industry, simultaneously maintaining its position as the pinnacle of motorsports. So, dear readers, buckle up for an incredible journey that promises thrilling races on the race track and a transformation that could shape the cars we drive on the roads for years, decades, and centuries to come.

An article by -
Thejaswini Devakumar and
Aniruddha Ghosh