Top Indian Automobile Industry News & Updates - 22 Aug 2024,Thursday

🏢 Industry

Rs 15,000 crore PLI sops likely this fiscal
The government may double the disbursements under production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes in this fiscal to Rs 15,000 crore. This would be more than double the amount of Rs 6,800 crore disbursed to various sectors in FY24.
Tata Motors tops Havas' X Index 2024
Mumbai: Tata Motors has topped the X Index 2024 India ranking by Havas CX India. Besides Tata Motors, two other Tata brands -- Tata Cliq Luxury (at No 3) and Tata Cliq Palette (No 10) -- find space among the top 10 in the report. 
PV inventory rises to more than double of normal levels: FADA
Mumbai: According to the Federation Of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the dealers have a passenger vehicle (PV) inventory of between 7,00,000 and 7,50,000 vehicles, or 67-72 days, worth ₹70,000 crore.
Renault-Nissan Tech takes up expansion of workspace at Tamil Nadu facility
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The new workspace is spread across 1.38 lakh sq ft with an overall seating capacity of 2,000 people at the company's existing premises.
Tata Motors teams with Delta, Thunderplus to grow India's EV charging grid

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the three companies outlines their respective roles in this initiative:
Maruti to talk CBG production expansion with Centre: Suzuki Motor

The demand for CNG vehicles has been rising significantly in the country. MSIL sold 145,000 CNG vehicles in the first quarter of 2024-25, marking a 28.3 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth.
📝  IKEA plans to increase the EV fleet used for good deliveries by 40% by 2024-25
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🚗 Cars / SUVs

Skoda names its upcoming compact SUV - Kylaq; launches 'name your Skoda' campaign
Skoda Auto India has unveiled the name of its much-anticipated new compact SUV, the Kylaq. This announcement follows a nationwide campaign called “Name Your Skoda,” which gathered over 200,000 entries. The Kylaq, set to debut in India and globally in 2025, reflects a new era for Skoda Auto in the Indian market, targeting the fast-growing compact SUV segment.
Maruti Suzuki scales back production as India's auto industry faces slowdown
Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) is scaling back its production in response to lower-than-expected passenger vehicle demand in the first quarter of the 2024-25 fiscal year. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), the company's majority shareholder, confirmed this move, as per the Business Standard report.
Made-in-India Maruti Suzuki Fronx gets ADAS, AWD in Japan
Maruti Suzuki Fronx is one among the many pseudo SUVs and crossovers which are essentially hatchbacks with a raised stance. However, in India it enjoys the status of an SUV even though it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive (AWD) which is considered as a basic requirement for an SUV.
Kia India expands its footprints in Kerala with 7 new dealerships
Kia India has announced the addition of seven new dealerships in Kerala, raising its total touchpoints in the state to 30. This expansion is part of Kia's strategy to make its products more accessible to customers, enhancing their experience with the company's next-generation mobility solutions. At present, Kia India has 178 touchpoints across South India, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Pondicherry.
Hyundai Motor India announces hydrogen innovation center in Tamil Nadu
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has announced the groundbreaking ceremony of its hydrogen innovation center at the Tamil Nadu Investors Conclave 2024, in Chennai. The facility, being developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) and Guidance Tamil Nadu, aims to catalyse innovation in hydrogen technology with the support of the State Government of Tamil Nadu.
Honda Elevate ZX MT vs Hyundai Creta SX Tech Petrol: Most VFM pick under ₹16 lakh
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The Honda Elevate and the Creta both come with 1.5-litre engines under ₹16 lakhs
2025 Skoda Elroq to have interiors made of recycled garments and PET bottles
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Skoda Elroq utilises recycled clothing and other sustainable materials for the first time in the interior.
📝  Skoda Kylaq: Czech car maker picks Sanskrit name for its compact SUV to challenge Fronx, Nexon, and 3XO
📝  Tata Punch pips WagonR as top-selling car
📝  Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, S-Presso now safer with this safety feature as standard: Details
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🚗 Luxury Cars

2024 Audi Q8 set for launch tomorrow: Price expectations
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The Audi Q8 will be available in eight colour schemes.
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⛟ Commercial Vehicles

Tata Motors ties up with two firms to expand charging infra for electric CVs
Tata Motors announced on Wednesday that it has partnered with Delta Electronics India and Thunderplus Solutions to establish a charging infrastructure for its electric commercial vehicles (CVs). As per the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed, the collaboration will result in the installation of 250 new fast-charging stations across India, covering over 50 cities.
Montra Electric delivers 5,000 Super Autos within 12 months of launch
New Delhi: Montra Electric, an electric vehicle brand under Murugappa Group, has announced the delivery of its 5000th three-wheeler passenger auto (L5M Category) within one year. This highlights Montra Electric's commitment to innovation and sustainability, as well as its growing relationship with customers nationwide, the company stated in its media release.
Euler Motors unveils new manufacturing facility in Haryana
Euler Motors, an electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, has unveiled a new manufacturing and R&D facility in Palwal, Haryana. Covering 500,000 square feet with Rs 100 crore investment, the plant as per the company’s statement, will produce 36,000 vehicles annually and serve as the company’s national manufacturing hub.
Read More >>

🎤 Interviews & Features

Kia Clavis spied testing again, launch expected 2025
With SUVs being favoured over other body styles, auto OEMs are now focussing on development of more and more SUVs which are more accessible to the masses. As a result, many small SUVs have been launched in India over the past few years and there are more to come.
2025 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Design, performance, and pricing comparison
Source Credit: The Times of India

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2025 GMC Terrain have been unveiled, showcasing distinct approaches to design and performance. While the CX-5 maintains its established look and feel, the GMC Terrain presents a fresh, rugged redesign. Despite these changes, both SUVs retain their existing powertrains.

Design: Mazda CX-5’s classic appeal vs. GMC Terrain’s bold new look
The Mazda CX-5 remains largely unchanged since its 2022 update, retaining a design that, while refined, now feels somewhat dated compared to newer rivals.Its conservative styling offers a classic appeal, but some drivers might seek a more striking appearance.

In contrast, the 2025 GMC Terrain debuts with a completely overhauled design. Its new, muscular look emphasises ruggedness, reminiscent of larger pickup trucks. This bold aesthetic could appeal to buyers looking for a more aggressive SUV profile.

Powertrain: Room for improvement

Here's a quick comparison of their powertrains:
Feature
2025 GMC Terrain Elevation
2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
Engine
1.5-liter Turbo 4-cylinder 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Drivetrain AWD AWD
Transmission 8-speed automatic 6-speed automatic
Horsepower
175 hp 187 hp
Torque 203 lb-ft 186 lb-ft
Towing Capacity
1,500 lbs 2,000 lbs
Fuel Economy (AWD)
Estimated 23/28/25 MPG 26/31/28 MPG
📝  Battle of Electric Vehicles and the outlook for emission reduction: PEV vs PHEV vs HEV
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🏍 2/3 Wheelers

2024 TVS Jupiter teased again: Launch tomorrow
TVS Motor has been working overtime releasing teasers for the 2024 Jupiter. The company’s number-one-selling scooter will receive an update and will be unveiled on August 22. Below is everything we know so far about the 2024 Jupiter 110.
Hero MotoCorp to drive in new scooter trims; bolster production capacity of Xtreme 125R
New Delhi: Two-wheeler major Hero MotoCorp is gearing up to expand its scooter range and consolidate its position in the 125 cc bike segment as it looks to grow faster than the competition, according to CEO Niranjan Gupta. The company plans to roll out both petrol and electric scooter trims and also bolster the production capacity of 125 cc bike Xtreme 125R to cater to enhanced demand.
2024 Jawa 42 vs Royal Enfield Hunter 350: Specs, features, prices compared
Classic Legends has had a busy last few weeks with multiple launches including the updated Yezdi Adventure, Roadster, Jawa 42, and the all-new BSA Gold Star. The Jawa 42 has received a significant upgrade over the outgoing model. The 42 is a sporty neo-retro motorcycle which goes up against the likes of Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
BSA Gold Star 650: Top 5 features of Royal Enfield Interceptor rival
Classic Legends has entered the 650-cc fray with the introduction of the BSA Gold Star 650. Royal Enfield, the long-standing leader in this segment, now faces a formidable challenger. We take a closer look at the new kid on the block’s features and find out if the Gold Star has what it takes to make the Interceptor 650 nervous.
BMW Motorrad India commence bookings of BMW F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure
BMW Motorrad India has announced that bookings for the highly anticipated all-new BMW F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure will commence at 12:30 PM on August 21, 2024. These premium mid-range touring enduro motorcycles will be offered as Completely Built-Up (CBU) models and can be reserved through BMW Motorrad India's extensive dealership network.
Honda becomes new Hero in Indian two-wheeler market, topples Hero MotoCorp
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India has toppled Hero MotoCorp in terms of domestic sales in the Indian two-wheeler market during the April-July period of 2024.
Hero MotoCorp eyes strengthening with newer models and capacity expansion
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Hero MotoCorp is eyeing on expanding its scooter portfolio and strengthen its position in the 125cc bike segment, said CEO Niranjan Gupta. The company aims to race ahead of its competitors in these growing segments and capitalise the demand, a report by PTI stated.
YEIDA offers 200 acres to Ducati for India's first motorcycle race track
Source Credit: Vasudha Mukherjee, Business Standard

New Delhi: The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has offered 200 acres of land for free to Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati. The land, located in Sector 22F, Greater Noida, is earmarked for the development of a world-class race track and training center for motorbikes, akin to the Buddh International Circuit along the Yamuna Expressway. This could significantly contribute to Uttar Pradesh’s ambitions of becoming a global motorsport hub, according to a report by the Hindustan Times.
📝  For Anand Mahindra, understanding what customers want is more important than the ICE vs EV debate
📝  Harley-Davidson X440 launched with new colour options in India, it costs Rs.2.60 lakh
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🚲 Electric 2/3 Wheelers

Ola sole ‘new non-automotive investor’ OEM to qualify under Auto PLI, not a single rupee disbursed so far
The scheme was focused on Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) i.e. Battery Electric Vehicles and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles. The incentives under the scheme were initially applicable from 2022-23 to FY 2026-27 (5 years) and the disbursement of incentives was to begin 2023-24 and continue till 2027-28. But the PLI scheme was later tweaked, so that disbursement of incentives is now scheduled to begin in the current fiscal year, 2024-25.
Ola Electric shares surge 90% post-debut to hit $7 billion value
The rapid rise in Ola Electric Mobility Ltd. shares is vindicating the founder’s push to list the company despite initial skepticism over valuation.  The stock has surged nearly 90 per cent in less than two weeks, bringing its market capitalization to over $7 billion. The company’s initial public offering was India’s biggest in two years and saw participation from across investor segments.
OLA Roadster Pro: Top 3 features
The new Ola Roadster motorcycle range is based on the new Gen 3 platform. This architecture will also be utilized by the forthcoming generation of Ola electric scooters. The electric motorcycle comes in three variants: the Roadster X, the Roadster, and the Roadster Pro. We take a look at the top features of the Roadster Pro.
Ola Electric shares rise over 4% after PLI approval for two more vehicle models
New Delhi: Ola Electric Mobility shares rose 4.4% to INR 143.8 in Wednesday's trade on BSE after the electric two-wheeler maker received certification for production-linked incentive (PLI) benefits for two more of its vehicles.
Can Ola's electric bikes overtake Hero's Splendor?
New Delhi: Earlier this month, Ola Electric launched its much-awaited bikes: the Roadster, Roadster X, and Roadster Pro. Ola has priced these bikes at a competitive starting price of INR 74,999, a price level that places it as a strong rival to many city-ride bikes from major 2-wheeler makers in India including Hero Moto.
Hero MotoCorp’s all upcoming EVs to be PLI-compliant to bring positive results: CEO
New Delhi: Country’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, has said that all its upcoming electric vehicles (EVs) from Vida brand would benefit from government’s production linked incentive (PLI) scheme, which would bring positive results and profits to its EV business.
Bhavish Aggarwal pokes fun at Elon Musk, says ‘Tesla for West, Ola for Rest’
Bhavish Aggarwal, founder and chief executive officer of Ola Electric and Ola Cabs, on Wednesday, August 21, mocked Tesla founder Elon Musk, stating that “Tesla is for the West and Ola is for the rest”. Speaking at Business Today's BT India@100 Conclave in New Delhi, Aggarwal said billionaire Musk's company makes products for the one billion rich people.
What is PLI scheme and why does it make your electric scooter more affordable?
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

PLI scheme or Production Linked Incentive is an initiative by the Indian government to promote domestic manufacturing and attract foreign investment in various sectors. The scheme was first introduced back in 2020 and it offers financial incentives to companies that invest in India and meet specific production and revenue targets.
📝  Ola becomes only EV maker to secure PLI certification for four electric scooters
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⚙ Components

Elgi Equipments draws up product strategy to overcome Chinese import challenges
Chennai: Coimbatore-based Elgi Equipments Ltd, a leading air-compressor manufacturer, is implementing strategic measures to maintain its competitive edge in response to the growing influx of low-cost Chinese products in the Indian market. The company is also working on its product portfolio to address these challenges head-on.
Read More >>

🌇 Allied Industries

Natural rubber prices decline on rising imports, domestic arrivals
Kochi: After surging to a record high of ₹255 for RSS-4 in the previous weeks, natural rubber prices moved south to reach ₹235. Latex prices also come down to ₹210 from ₹250. Rubber dealers cited increased domestic arrivals coupled with the large quantity of imports as the reason for the prices to drop. George Valy, president of Indian Rubber Dealers Federation, said the continuing rains in plantations have not hindered tapping, thanks to the completion of rain-guarding in a majority of trees. This has ensured more arrivals to the domestic market coupled with the release of available stocks in the North-East. Higher arrivals of natural rubber in the domestic market are likely to affect prices further, he said.
Autonomous solutions (ADAS) company Rosh.Ai raises USD 1 mn in seed investment round
Ev2 Ventures/Caret Capital and ThinKuvate led a USD 1 million Seed investment round in Rosh.Ai, a deep-tech company based in Kochi, specialising in vehicle-agnostic autonomous solutions. Founded in 2021, Rosh.Ai aims to revolutionize mobility by addressing issues like sea port congestion and mining productivity with advanced autonomy technology.
APAC keyless entry system market to decline at 0.5% CAGR by 2029: GlobalData
Threats
Redefining mobility for the digital age
Embracing advanced technologies
JK Tyre to invest Rs 1.32 cr to acquire 26% stake in solar energy venture

Truere Galaxy, incorporated only earlier this year in April, specialises in renewable energy through the installation of rooftop solar panels. The investment by JK Tyre aligns with its commitment to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions. By securing a group captive power status, JK Tyre aims to source solar power for its operations, furthering its sustainability goals.
📝  MRF's new 'Aero-Muscle' tyres for Indian hero LCA Tejas Mk2 fighter plane: Details
📝  Unabated steel imports amid fall in prices worry producers
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🌢 Fuels, Lubricants & Charging Stations

Servotech secures major EV charging contract in Kerala
Servotech Power Systems Ltd., an EV charger manufacturer, has secured a contract from the Kerala government’s Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT) to build 12 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The shares of Servotech Power Systems Ltd. Were trading at ₹134.92 up by ₹4.16 or 3.18 per cent today on the NSE at 3:15 pm
📝  Bengaluru has over 85% of state’s EV charging stations
📝  Oil prices down on swelling US crude stocks, easing Middle East tensions
📝  Oil prices slow sell-off as expectations of Fed rate cut grow
Read More >>

🌍 Emissions/Environment

📝  Bharat Zero Emission Trucking Policy Advisory launched
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💸 Finance & Insurance

evfin partners with River Mobility to offer financing solutions
New Delhi: Greaves Finance Limited, a non-banking financial company (NBFC) and a subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Ltd., has partnered with Bengaluru-based startup River Mobility Private Ltd. to provide competitive financing options for River’s multi-utility electric scooters under the evfin platform. This initiative aims to make River vehicle ownership more accessible across the nation by offering low-interest loans and lease options.
📝  CCI nod sought for merger of Tata Motors Finance with Tata Capital
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📖 Magazines News

New Skoda compact SUV christened Kylaq
The Skoda Kylaq will be based on Volkswagen’s MQB A0 IN platform and can essentially be considered a more compact derivative of the Kushaq. 
BMW F 900 GS, F 900 GSA teased ahead of India launch
New 895cc motor makes 105hp, 93Nm
Made-in-India Fronx for Japan gets AWD, ADAS
Fronx get gets a 1.5-litre mild hybrid petrol in Japan
Tata Curvv EV waiting period stretches to two months
45kwh variants have eight week waiting
All cars, SUVs under Rs 10 lakh with a sunroof
Tata Altroz
Toyota Hyryder gets over Rs 75,000 discounts this month
Source Credit: Autocar India

Toyota dealers are offering attractive discounts on most of its line-up just ahead of the start of the 2024 festive season. A quick ground check revealed that popular models such as the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Glanza and even the newly launched Taisor are available with substantial benefits. What’s more, even the Toyota Fortuner is being offered at a discounted price now. Read on to find out how much you can save on your new Toyota.
How Mahindra and BSA sealed the deal in 48 hours
Source Credit: Autocar India

In the waning months of 2016, David Bennett, the steadfast custodian of the storied BSA Motorcycles brand since its decline in the early 1970s, reached out to Anand Mahindra, the chairman of Indian automotive giant Mahindra & Mahindra. Bennett had a proposition – BSA, a once-legendary name in motorcycling, was up for sale. Reviving the venerable British marque thrilled Mahindra, who possessed the financial clout and the strategic ambition to breathe new life into the brand.
Hyundai Alcazar facelift: Your questions answered
Source Credit: Autocar India

Hyundai is all set to launch the Alcazar facelift in India next month. The three-row SUV will get a major update to its exterior and interior styling and equipment list. Here’s everything you need to know about it:
Harley Davidson X440 gets new colours
Source Credit: Autocar India

Harley-Davidson has launched three new colours for its X440 model, making it available in 7 colours now. The American brand has also featured new badging on the tank to complement these new colours. 
Audi RS3 facelift revealed
 
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📰 International News

What happens next in the EU investigation into China-made EVs?
The European Commission published on Tuesday the draft findings of its high-profile investigation into alleged subsidies for imports of Chinese-made electric vehicles, which included some revisions to proposed punitive tariffs.
Stellantis appoints former Rivian executive Tim Fallon to lead North American manufacturing
Stellantis has announced the appointment of Tim Fallon as the new Head of Manufacturing for North America, effective September 2. Fallon, a seasoned industry professional, previously headed EV manufacturing at Rivian and served in various production roles over a 16-year tenure at Nissan.
Stellantis CEO to visit US to create plan to reverse lagging profit
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares will visit Detroit this week, where he will seek to develop a strategy to fix the European automaker's struggling North American operations and reassure employees and investors, a person familiar with the plans said.
Chile's SQM posts 63% slump in profit, expects weak lithium prices to stay
Chile's SQM, the world's second-largest lithium producer, reported a bigger-than-expected 63.2% slide in its quarterly profit on Wednesday due to weak prices of the battery metal, which it expects will continue for the rest of the year.
Tesla to recall more than 9,000 Model X SUVs, NHTSA says
Tesla to recall more than 9,000 Model X SUVs, NHTSA says
The Hindu Business Line
Ford slows EV plans, delaying pickup and axing three-row SUV, to cut costs
Ford to shift EV strategy by building new lower-cost pickup, commercial van
Hyundai Group overtakes home-bred brands to take No.2 spot in US EV game
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Hyundai Motor Group, consisting of Hyundai, Kia and Genesis, recently became the second-largest selling electric vehicle (EV) organisation in the United States, overtaking American companies Ford and General Motors (GM) while trailing Tesla. As per local reports, Hyundai Motor Group has managed to secure a 10 per cent market share as against 7.4 per cent with Ford and 6.3 per cent with GM. Tesla still has over 50 per cent market share here.
2025 Audi RS3 corners harder with style and chassis upgrades. Check details
Source Credit: Hindustan Times
Chinese electric car maker BYD eyes state incentives for its Mexico plant
Source Credit: Bloomberg, Hindustan Times

The BYD plant in Mexico will produce 150,000 units of electric cars in its first stage and a further 150,000 units in its second stage before eventually producing between 400,000 and 500,000 units in a few more years. 
📝  BMW recalling more than 720,000 vehicles due to water pump issue
📝  Automakers engage in myth-busting campaign surrounding EV charging safety
Read More >>


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