Whitelane Research’s survey of top European IT spending organizations is the most comprehensive survey of its kind, gathering insights from nearly 2,300 participants 

The survey revealed TCS as an exceptional performer across six key IT domains. This achievement marks the 12^th straight year that TCS has held the highest ranking in this survey

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has been ranked number one for Customer Satisfaction in Europe, according to an independent survey by Whitelane Research.

The Whitelane Research 2024/2025 IT Sourcing Study gathered insights from nearly 2,300 participants from Europe’s leading organizations. The study evaluated over 6,000 unique IT sourcing relationships and more than 6,500 cloud platform sourcing relationships, reinforcing TCS’ unique position in the industry. This marks the 12^th straight year that TCS has held the highest ranking in this survey. Additionally, the organization also secured the #1 spot for general satisfaction in Financial Services (84% vs industry average of 77%) and Transport & Logistics (84% vs industry average of 73%), further strengthening its position as a trusted IT partner.

Jef Loos, Head Sourcing Europe at Whitelane Research, said, “Congratulations to TCS for 12 years in first place. It is no easy feat to achieve this ranking. This level of consistency over the years speaks of the quality of TCS’ IT services and customer focus. Technology needs can change dramatically year-on-year, just as we have seen with the increase in investment in AI and machine learning solutions. An IT service provider that can adapt to and anticipate changing needs is therefore essential for customers, and TCS’ ranking demonstrates that they have this ability.”

This recognition underscores TCS’ commitment to serving as a trusted IT partner for European enterprises, with a presence in the region for over 45 years. Throughout this journey, TCS has driven digital transformation for some of Europe’s leading multinationals across industries such as banking and financial services, manufacturing, telecom, retail, travel, logistics, and more. With a diverse and agile workforce operating from 62 offices across Europe, TCS continues to be a strategic transformation partner, empowering businesses to navigate change and achieve sustained success.

TCS demonstrated outstanding performance across six critical IT domains, including Digital Transformation (79% satisfaction vs. industry average of 75%), Cloud & Infrastructure Services (80% vs. 74%), Workplace Services (80% vs. 74%), Security Services (81% vs. 74%), Network & Connectivity Services (81% vs. 72%), and Application Services (82% vs. 76%).

Sapthagiri Chapalapalli, Head of Europe at TCS, said, “We believe in excellence in our IT services, and we are delighted to see this consistently reflected in our European customer satisfaction ranking as we celebrate our twelfth year at the top. We are especially proud to have ranked as an ‘excellent performer’ across every service pillar assessed. TCS values the trust placed in us by our customers, and our TCS teams prioritize always delivering exceptional customer service.”

Evaluating broad industry trends, the report found that 33% of respondents indicated their organization plans to increase its IT budget for external providers over the next two years, driven primarily by the need for access to specialized resources and talent (51%), followed closely by business scalability (50%). A deeper analysis of IT outsourcing strategies highlighted key investment priorities, with strengthening security, resilience, and cyber defense emerging as the top focus area (56%). Automation of key business processes (53%) and cost savings (44%) were also cited as major investment priorities. Additionally, advancing AI and machine learning solutions saw a significant rise in importance, increasing by 16% from the previous year’s finding (28%) to 44%.

In addition to securing the top spot for the 12th consecutive year in Whitelane Research’s 2024/2025 IT Sourcing Study, TCS has also been recognized as a Top Employer in Europe by the Top Employer Institute for the 13th year in a row. Since 2013, Whitelane has conducted its annual IT sourcing study to evaluate the leading IT and cloud service providers in Europe, making it one of the most comprehensive reports on the outsourcing market.  For further information on Whitelane Research’s IT sourcing report, Click here.

With strong leadership and a clear vision, Balvinder Nath and TAFA are poised to revolutionize American football in Telangana. Through district-level expansion, school and college engagement, and high-profile tournaments, TAFA is committed to making Telangana a key hub for the sport in India

Cosmo Specialty Chemicals, a 100% subsidiary of Cosmo First and a one-stop solution for a range of Adhesives, Masterbatches, and Coating Chemicals, has launched its innovative range of Oil and Grease Resistant (OGR) barrier coatings. These advanced solutions offer sustainable alternatives to traditional polyethylene coatings, addressing growing environmental concerns while maintaining superior performance.

Globally, various governments have implemented phasing out traditional polyethylene coatings focusing on sustainable packaging solutions. Cosmo Specialty Chemicals is moving in this direction by launching two distinct grade OGR coatings – OGR 145B and OGR 145S – designed to meet diverse packaging requirements across industries. These water-based formulations are a sought-after solution for the packaging industry in its efforts toward green manufacturing.

“Our new range of OGR barrier coatings reflects Cosmo Specialty Chemicals' commitment to innovation and sustainability,” said Mr Raj Sharma, Business Head of Cosmo Specialty Chemicals. “By developing eco-friendly alternatives that maintain high-performance standards, we are addressing the current market demands and anticipated future needs. These solutions deliver exceptional barrier properties while supporting our customers' environmental goals and regulatory compliance requirements.”

The OGR 145B, a non-heat sealable barrier coating, offers excellent oil and grease resistance for food packaging applications. Its unique formulation provides superior water and oil resistance properties, versatile coating application compatibility, anti-blocking properties, zero VOC emissions and is FDA compliance for direct food contact.

Complementing this, the OGR 145S variant introduces heat-sealing capabilities, specifically engineered for paper cup manufacturing. This coating delivers enhanced heat-seal properties for paper-to-paper bonding, excellent resistance against water, moisture, oil, and grease, flexible application options including gravure, flexo, and air knife coating and food-grade compliance for safety.

Both products undergo rigorous testing through KIT and Cobb Index measurements, ensuring optimal performance in grease resistance and water absorbency. These scientifically validated parameters guarantee consistent quality and reliable barrier protection across various applications.

~ Ethos dials up digital transformation as Indian luxury retail market set to reach $14 Bn by 2032 ~

Leading luxury watch company, Ethos, has deployed Unicommerce’sUniware suite of solutions to elevate the experience for customers to optimise order management and streamline delivery processes for its growing base of online buyers.

Established in 2003, Ethos operates over 70 Watch Boutiques in 23 cities across India. As an authorised retailer of luxury watches, it offers more than 70 premium watch brands, including Rolex, Tissot, Breitling, BVLGARI, Maserati, Corum, Hublot, Rado,  Tag Heuer and Armin Strom, among many others. Ethos also sells through its own website and through multiple marketplaces.

Ethos has adopted Unicommerce's multi-channel order and warehouse management systems to streamline order processing from its brand website and various marketplaces. With this, Ethos aims to leverage cutting-edge technology to automate processes previously done manually.

By managing orders via Unicommerce's unified dashboard, Ethos is able to optimise its order processing across multiple platforms, enable seamless check-out for high-value items, and also make after-sales more efficient. The automated shipping allocation also makes order tracking updates available to the end customer from the point when the product is shipped. Unicommerce’s technology also powers Ethos’ returns management operations. This ensures customers enjoy a hassle-free experience for all orders placed across different platforms.

The Unicommerce platform also allows Ethos to offer a wider assortment of products online, making store inventory available to shoppers across smaller towns and cities where their physical stores are not present, ensuring their commitment to making luxury products accessible to tier 2 and tier 3 buyers.

Speaking on the partnership, Nikhil Adhlakha, Head of E-Commerce at Ethos, said, “We are seeing a tremendous growth opportunity in the Indian market. We are optimistic that this partnership with Unicommerce will further strengthen our operational efficiency to meet growing demand.”

Kapil Makhija, MD & CEO of Unicommerce, said, “We are excited to support Ethos in scaling their operations and achieving their e-commerce goals. Our technology solutions have consistently registered faster order processing and reduction in operational errors for our clients. We are confident that we will add value to Ethos’ luxury e-commerce operations. ”

According to consulting firm BCG, the luxury retail market in India is currently valued at approximately $8 billion and is expected to grow to $14 billion by 2032. This rise in wealth is contributing to an ever-expanding demand for luxury goods across the country. The growth in luxury retail is not limited only to the big metros. Towns like Dehradun, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Guwahati, and many more are also showing a keen interest in premium goods.

Godrej Properties Ltd. (GPL), one of India’s leading real estate developers, has unveiled India’s first 3D-printed G+1 villa at Godrej Eden Estate, Maan Hinjewadi, Pune in association with Tvasta Engineering. Leveraging cutting-edge 3D printing technology, the company has achieved a significant milestone to set new benchmarks in design, efficiency, and sustainability and marks a transformative moment for the real estate industry.

The villa, constructed using additive manufacturing techniques, demonstrates the potential of 3D printing in revolutionizing home construction. The project, which commenced in June 2024, was successfully completed in just four months, underscoring the speed and efficiency of 3D printing in construction. By employing computer-generated designs, the structure was built layer by layer with specialized materials, significantly reducing construction time, material waste, and labour costs, while ensuring precision and durability. This architectural innovation blends modern aesthetics with sustainable design, introducing elements that redefine contemporary living spaces.

Key Features of the 3D-Printed Villa:

·         The villa’s organic and fluid form, shaped using advanced algorithms, enhances both structural integrity and visual appeal.

·         A striking architectural feature that maximizes natural light, reduces energy consumption, and creates an expansive, open feel.

·         Replacing conventional straight staircases, this sculptural element adds an artistic and dynamic touch to the home’s interior.

·         Inspired by nature, the villa’s flowing lines seamlessly integrate with its surroundings, fostering a sense of harmony and well-being.

·         A signature of 3D-printed architecture, the layered exterior pattern showcases the precision of the technology, lending the structure a unique and futuristic aesthetic.

This achievement sets the stage for wider adoption of 3D printing in Indian real estate, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable cities. By integrating advanced design principles with environmentally conscious construction, Godrej Properties continues to redefine modern living and shape the future of housing in India.

Commenting on the milestone, Vikas Singhal, Chief Operating Officer, Godrej Properties, said, “At Godrej Properties, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, and sustainability in real estate. The unveiling of India’s first 3D-printed villa at Godrej Eden Estate is a testament to our vision of pioneering futuristic, efficient, and eco-friendly construction methods. 3D printing has the potential to transform homebuilding by making it faster, more precise, significantly more sustainable, and incorporates energy-efficient features that reduce the project’s environmental impact. We are proud to introduce this technology to the Indian real estate sector and look forward to exploring its further applications in the future.”

Welspun Living Limited (WLL), a global leader in home textiles, has achieved a remarkable milestone in sustainability, securing a total ESG score of 83 in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). This recognition solidifiesWLL’s ongoing leadership as the highest-ranked textile manufacturing company from India in the Textile, Apparel & Luxury Goods category. The score also places WLL at the 4^th position globally in the aforesaid category of the CSA. The company has demonstrated a significant 26% improvement from its 2023 score of 66, highlighting its commitment to sustainable business practices and responsible growth.

WLL’s impressive performance is reflected across all three key pillars of the assessment: Governance & Economic (79), Environment (85), and Social (84). The company’s continuous advancements in sustainable manufacturing, ethical sourcing, and environmental stewardship have played a crucial role in this achievement. With a strategic focus on innovation, transparency, and circular economy principles, WLL continues to lead the way in embedding sustainability into its core business operations.

Welspun Living Limited has outperformed industry benchmarks in ESG performance. It scored 85 in Environmental (industry mean: 34, highest: 96), 84 in Social (mean: 34, highest: 91), and 79 in Governance & Economic (mean: 38, highest: 88). These scores highlight Welspun Living’s leadership in sustainability and excellence in the industry.

Commenting on this accomplishment, Dipali Goenka, MD& CEO, Welspun Living Limited, said: “We are incredibly proud of achieving the Fourth position in the Textile, Apparel & Luxury Goods categoryglobally in the S&P CSA with a score of Eighty Three this year. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who continuously strive to integrate sustainable practices into every aspect of our business. At Welspun Living, we believe that responsible growth goes hand in hand with innovation and transparency, and we remain committed to leading the way in sustainable manufacturing and setting benchmarks in the industry”.

Alok Mishra, President & Group Head – Sustainability, added: “This remarkable improvement in our ESG score is a result of our efforts to address the company’s ESG risks holistically and build a future proof organization. It’s a proof of our belief that economic growth and environmental stewardship can co-exist. The success re-energises us to continue working towards our long-term vision of creating impact-driven solutions for a better world.”

As sustainability continues to shape the global business landscape, Welspun Living remains dedicated to enhancing its ESG initiatives, setting new benchmarks for responsible growth in the textile industry. The company’s strategic roadmap focuses on decarbonization, water conservation, circular economy, and social empowerment, ensuring a holistic approach toward long-term value creation.

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) today announced the launch of the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) to nurture and support the growth of India’s space technology capabilities. This fund is designed to support the transition of early-stage space technologies developed by Indian companies into commercially viable products. By providing partial funding to Non-Government Entities (NGEs), the TAF will support the transition of innovative ideas from the drawing board to a market-ready stage.

The TAF has been created to promote the development of space technology within India while reducing the nation’s dependence on imported solutions. Investing in domestic research and development, the TAF will help building a strong partnership between government bodies and the private sector and position India as a reliable global partner in the space industry.

“The fund will offer financial support of up to 60% of the project cost for startups and MSMEs, and 40% for larger industries, with a maximum funding cap of ₹25 Crores per project,” said Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe. “We have designed this fund to help innovators bridge the gap between early-stage development and commercialization. This support will enable companies to refine their technologies, enhance production processes, and meet market demands both within India and abroad. Our focus is on enabling practical solutions that can be quickly integrated into the space ecosystem”, he added. 

With TAF, IN-SPACe aims to support a wide range of outcomes—from the development of new space products to the creation of intellectual property that can drive future research and development. The fund will help promote advanced space technologies and contribute to job creation along with economic growth. By funding projects that have the potential to become commercial successes, IN-SPACe is taking concrete steps toward strengthening India’s position in the global space sector.

The Technology Adoption Fund is open to all eligible NGEs/companies that are ready to demonstrate the commercial potential of their innovations. Interested parties are encouraged to register on the IN-SPACe Digital Platform (IDP) at www.inspace.gov.in/taf to review the Guidelines Document and to submit their applications in the prescribed format.

In addition to financial support, the initiative will provide technical guidance and mentoring opportunities, which will help companies navigate challenges during the product development phase. This comprehensive support framework is intended to ensure that innovative ideas are not only protected and refined but also brought to market efficiently.

EDITOR’S SYNOPSIS

·         ACC and the Adani Foundation facilitate expansion of Vijay Lakshmi Devi’s grocery store near ACC Salai Banwa, through the Radhe self-help group (SHG).

·         The initiative has enabled Vijay Lakshmi to increase her family’s monthly income by Rs. 5,000, significantly improving their financial stability.

·         Vijay Lakshmi plans to repay the loan in 12 months and further expand her business, aiming to boost her family’s annual income to Rs. 1.20 lakh.

ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to empowering rural communities through sustainable livelihoods. The Company along with the Adani Foundation is supporting Vijay Lakshmi Devi, president of the Radhe self-help group (SHG), to expand her grocery store near ACC Salai Banwa.

Under ACC and the Adani Foundation’s community outreach initiatives, Vijay Lakshmi received a Rs. 50,000 loan which has enabled her to expand her inventory, attract more customers, and boost her family’s financial stability. Despite challenges such as balancing her growing business with family responsibilities, Vijay Lakshmi remains determined to succeed. Her goal is to repay the loan within 12 months while increasing her monthly income by Rs. 5,000, raising her family’s annual earnings to Rs. 1.20 lakh this year.

Vijay Lakshmi’s journey reflects resilience and determination. With the additional income, her family’s financial position has significantly improved, giving them the confidence to plan for a better future. She also serves as an inspiration to other rural entrepreneurs in the region.

ACC remains committed to enhancing economic opportunities for communities where it operates. Initiatives such as supporting rural entrepreneurs through SHGs highlight its efforts towards facilitating financial independence and promoting inclusive growth in rural areas of the nation.

–       THE ULTIMATE FUN AND NAKED BIKE ARRIVES ON THE 457 PLATFORM WITH A COMPLETELY NEW DESIGN LANGUAGE

–       DEDICATED TO YOUNG BIKERS ALL OVER THE WORLD, IT IS 100% TUONO: UNIQUE PERFORMANCE, TOP-LEVEL CONTENT AND SUPERB RIDING

–       THE NEW TUONO 457 BOASTS THE BEST POWER/WEIGHT RATIO IN ITS CATEGORY: EASY TO HANDLE, PURE FUN TO RIDE

–       THE NEW REFERENCE POINT IN TERMS OF STYLE AND TECHNOLOGY: TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE, ALUMINIUM FRAME AND AN ELECTRONIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THAT INCLUDES RIDE-BY-WIRE, TRACTION CONTROL AND THREE RIDING MODES

–       PRICED AT INR 3,95,000 (EX-SHOWROOM, MAHARASHTRA) AND AVAIABLE IN TWO COLOURS OF PIRANHA RED AND PUMA GREY

–       BOOKINGS NOW OPEN VIA WWW.SHOP.APRILIAINDIA.COM AT INR 10,000

–       TEST RIDES AND DELIVERIES TO COMMENCE FROM FIRST WEEK OF MARCH 2025 AT SELECT APRLIA INDIA DEALERSHIPS IN INDIA

A new Aprilia Tuono is born, and new generations of motorcyclists – among the most knowledgeable and passionate out there – know that a new machine dedicated to pure fun has arrived in India. At a thunderous evening in Bangalore, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd along with Aprilia India brand ambassador John Abraham, launched the Aprilia Tuono 457 for the India market. 

Young motorcyclists have already demonstrated their appreciation for Aprilia's skill in understanding and interpreting their desire for fun with the RS 457, a model that was conceived in Noale. This excellent technical base provides the building blocks for the Aprilia Tuono 457, unveiled to new riders as a true naked bike, dedicated to day-to-day riding and leisure-time fun. The new Aprilia bears a legendary name which has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technology, maximum performance and absolute enjoyment both on the road and on the track.

Speaking at the unveil, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd, said, “I am thrilled to introduce to India the Aprilia Tuono 457, a year after we introduced the segment disruptor Aprilia RS457. There were a lot of enquiries for naked sibling to the RS and Tuono 457 is the latest heir to a tradition of excellence in high-handlebar sports bikes offering a superb, adrenaline-filled ride. The Tuono 457 has a number of differences that render it all the more exclusive: it is the only bike in the range that does not have a fairing integrated into the frame. In its place – for the first time on a Tuono – is a pared-back light cluster, worthy of a true naked bike. It’s the most non-conformist and rebellious Tuono that has ever been, and whilst it retains the core features of all Tuono bikes, the new model boasts an all-new look, designed to satisfy the needs and desires of the youngest generation at which it is aimed.”

He further added, “I am sure the Tuono 457 will also win over bikers in India and I cannot wait to hear their feelings astride the new Tuono”

Brand Ambassador John Abraham also expressed his views, “Like many other bikers, I was also hoping for a Tuono 457 to be introduced to India. The Aprilia Tuono has a legendary portfolio and I am sure the new Tuono 457 will completely dominate the naked segment. The bike is agile, powerful and looks distinct and incredible, all things that one expects from Aprilia. I think this will be the perfect city and urban riding bike and I cant wait to get this bike home.”  

A fresh new design

The entire design of the Tuono 457 is new, and has grown from a blank sheet, upon which Aprilia’s designers have sketched the pared-back lines and compact surfaces of a true naked bike – an evolution of the stylistic language that makes all Aprilia bikes instantly recognisable and utterly unique. The full LED front light cluster retains the characteristic triple headlight that typifies all Aprilia models, interpreted here in an innovative manner, with a small lower spoiler – a homage to that on the legendary Tuono 1000 R twin-cylinder which also reflects the design of all Aprilia road bikes in the range, where the application of advanced aerodynamic solutions is clear to see.

The new tank shape expresses a sense of sportiness and has an ergonomic design which is specifically conceived to match the wide handlebar, for a dynamic, fun ride.

Also new is the design of the side panels and tailpiece, which echo the essential styling of the Tuono 457. The rear light cluster is also full LED, while the twin-cylinder engine with load-bearing function is intentionally left uncovered, highlighting its uniqueness in this category, as is the twin-beam aluminium frame. The decision to locate the exhaust system under the engine also contributes to the clean look of the bike, whilst also providing greater freedom in terms of the positioning of the passenger footrests. The saddle, which is 800 mm from the ground, is tapered at the sides to aid the rider when placing a foot on the ground; the passenger seat is roomy, while the single-seat tailpiece is available as an accessory.     

Top-level power/weight ratio

The Tuono 457 is crafted around the ultra-modern 457 cc twin-cylinder engine which has just been introduced on the RS 457, the jewel in Aprilia's technological crown.

It is a liquid-cooled, parallel front twin-cylinder engine with double camshaft timing and four valves per cylinder, which has a maximum power output of 35 kW (47.6 hp) at 9,400 rpm and a torque of 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm, 82% of which is already available at 3,000 rpm. The bike offers record levels of performance for a front twin-cylinder with this engine size.

This latest-generation engine is extremely compact and light, helping to achieve best power/weight ratio, the key priority for Noale's designers: indeed, the bike’s dry weight is just 159 kg. The specific layout of the engine was selected to optimise lightness and compactness as far as possible, leaving plenty of freedom when designing the chassis; the engine also has a load-bearing function, with the swingarm mount incorporated into the rear.

Aprilia's twin-cylinder engine draws on the experience gained with the super-powerful 1100 cc V4 engine fitted on the RSV4 and later on the 659 cc twin-cylinder engine fitted to the 660 range.

Aprilia's technicians have worked to optimise the overall dimensions, fully integrating the cooling circuit and the blow-by recovery circuit into the engine, enabling external piping to be eliminated.

The crankcase is split horizontally into two parts, in order to further reduce bulk and make the structure more robust.

Various solutions have been used to minimise internal friction: the cylinders are offset by around 6.5 mm from the crankshaft, reducing friction during the piston thrust; the countershaft and the water pump work on roller bearings instead of bushings, and the piston pins undergo a  DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) surface treatment. Finally, the gearbox uses roller cages instead of bushings – the same as on Aprilia's V4 engines – and in addition, it boasts a new patented lubrication solution, with a system integrated into the axles of the shift forks. The cam axles of the 4-valve/cylinder twin camshaft timing system, driven by a lateral chain, are hollow and use calibrated cups – which help to reduce inertia – in order to move the valves. The oil-bath multi-disc clutch is power-assisted, and has an anti-hopping system. Unlike the RS 457, the final drive train of the Tuono 457 is shorter as a result of the adoption of a crown wheel with an extra tooth, which enables even greater responsiveness at every touch of the electronic Ride-by-Wire multimap throttle.

The chassis: absolute lightness and agility

The new Tuono 457 benefits from Aprilia's invaluable, winning expertise, gained through years of competing, and is the only bike in its segment with an aluminium frame.

To achieve the very best compromise between rigidity and weight, the shapes of the chassis were optimised using Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), along with a host of on-road development sessions. The resulting layout is devoted to maximum lightness, which ensures the dynamic behaviour and the characteristic front-axle feel common to all Aprilia bikes. The chassis is forged from two lateral aluminium beams, bolted onto the steering head and at the rear; the engine functions as a load-bearing element – a solution inspired by the highly successful engine on the 660 road range – which enables the creation of a compact, light and rigid structure. This solution delivers the best power/weight ratio in the category. In order to allow the chassis to fully express its superb handling and precision to the full, cutting-edge suspensions have been selected, and the calibration of the latter delivers maximum fun and the best possible control in every situation. The fork with 41 mm stems and 120 mm travel has a preload adjustment setting, and the rear shock absorber (with 130 mm travel), which supports the asymmetrical steel swingarm, is adjustable too.

The braking system features a pair of ByBre callipers (the front of which has a radial mount) which operate with two steel discs:320 mm at the front and 220 mm at the rear.

The system is assisted by a Bosch two-channel ABS system with dual-mapping, available either on both wheels or only on the front. The 17-inch rims fit tyres measuring 110/70 at the front and 150/60 at the back – perfect for emphasising the spectacular agility that the features of the chassis deliver.

Electronic control systems for safety and fun

The electronic equipment of the Tuono 457 continues Aprilia’s technological tradition, and is the most comprehensive in this category, developed with the dual goal of enhancing riding fun and ensuring maximum safety under all conditions. The Ride by Wire system – which Aprilia introduced first, both in MotoGP with the futuristic RS Cube, and in mass production with the Shiver – boasts three Riding Modes that adjust the power and torque delivery and the traction control, which can be set to three levels as well as disengaged. The Aprilia Riding Modes are also conceived to make life in the saddle easier: the rider simply selects the mode best suited to their riding style or situation in order to enjoy the optimal engine management and traction control settings.

The three Riding Modes are as follows:

ECO: the power delivered by the engine is progressive, while the traction control intervention level is set to medium (Level 2). Perfect for longer journeys and for day-to-day riding.

SPORT: the perfect mode for sporting riding, with a more prompt, dynamic power delivery from the engine and less invasive traction control (Level 1).

RAIN: a riding mode designed for use in low-grip conditions and on wet tarmac.

The power delivery is very smooth, whilst the traction control is set to maximum (Level 3) for total safety when accelerating.

The ATC (Aprilia Traction Control) system can always be adjusted, regardless of the Riding Mode selected, including whilst riding, by using the handy UP and DOWN buttons on the left-hand command block. In all Riding Modes, the ABS is set to the maximum level, and is engaged on both wheels. The ABS can be disengaged from the rear wheel when the bike is stationary, by pressing and holding the Riding Mode button, in order to maximise the sporty ride when on the track, for example.

The catalogue of dedicated accessories also includes the AQS system: Aprilia Quick Shift, the bi-directional electronic gearbox, for super-fast gear changes without having to close the throttle or use the clutch, which is also available when downshifting.

The Tuono 457 equipment also includes the cutting-edge TFT 5” colour instrument panel as standard, as well as the practical, intuitive back-lit commands on the handlebar. The Aprilia India app is another addition that further extends the functionality of the instrumentation: this multi-media platform enables the rider to connect their smartphone to the bike with Bluetooth connectivity. The system offers a connection protocol which minimises smartphone battery consumption, and includes both the Infotainment system – for managing the voice assistant, calls and music via the intuitive handlebar controls – and the navigation function, which enables the rider to view pictogram directions directly on the instrument panel after setting the travel destination on the associated smartphone.

Versions and colours

The Aprilia Tuono 457 comes in two different graphic versions. The Piranha Red livery boasts the classic colours of Aprilia's history – black and red – which serve to highlight the sporty nature of the Tuono 457. The second graphic version is called Puma Gray and features more sober colours, grey and white, which lend the Tuono 457 a more urban look.

Aprilia Tuono will also offer following accessories:

Aprilia has developed a broad range of original accessories for the Tuono 457 range, designed to enhance the character of the bike and improve both comport and functionality.

Pricing, after sales and service:

The Aprilia Tuono 457 is priced at INR 3,95,000 (ex-showroom, Maharashtra) and is open to bookings at www.shop.apriliaindia.com at INR 10,000. Test rides and deliveries will commence from the first week of March 2025 from select Aprilia India dealerships across India.

The Aprilia Tuono 457 commits to a similar after-sales and service promise as the RS457 and offers:

–       3 Year warranty, best in segment

–       First 3 complimentary services*

–       Road side assistance

 Keep following Aprilia India’s website and social media handles to know more.

***