Strong hybrids rev up to fly past EVs in green race as car sales make a pit stop
Sales of strong hybrid vehicles are growing in high double digits, sharply outpacing a sluggish Indian auto market where demand for both fossil-fuel and electric vehicles have slowed this year.

Key PLI schemes bring significant boost to local EV manufacturing in India
New Delhi: To bolster the domestic electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, the government's production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme with an approved outlay of INR 25,938 crore, along with some other key initiatives, have brought a significant change for the industry.

Auto Inc seeks policy boost for faster transition to green vehicles
In comparison, EVs and hybrids together comprise 49% of the Chinese auto market, reflecting a successful and rapid transition from ICE vehicles. The low share of EVs and hybrids in India's auto sales comes despite a favourable policy for EVs with lower taxes for such vehicles, and incentives for hybrids announced by states like UP.

Why the Chinese EV sector is not a ‘footnote’
China's booming electric vehicle (EV) market made waves in India recently when Bhavish Aggarwal, founder of Ola Electric, claimed his company was the world’s largest electric two-wheeler manufacturer and the fourth-largest EV company—with a footnote that this excludes China. Between January and July, Ola sold nearly 270,000 electric scooters, capturing 42% of the Indian market, with TVS Motor (17%) trailing in second place. This is a notable achievement, but the exclusion of China from a global comparison is glaring.

UP govt offers 200 acres in Greater Noida to Ducati for racetrack

The state in July announced it will host the second edition of the Grand Prix motorcycle racing championship in Greater Noida. If the proposal is carried through, the Ducati racetrack will come up in Greater Noida's Sector 22, where state nodal agency Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) owns encumbrance-free land for industrial and commercial purposes.

Passenger vehicle sales stagnate in FY25 amid waning demand, high inventory
 

Rural two-wheeler sales race past urban markets in a first since Covid
“This is primarily because the economic situation in rural areas is improving and there is a significant infrastructural push from the government,” said Yogesh Mathur, director of sales and marketing at Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI).

State of the Economy podcast. Is high inventory a sign of trouble for India’s passenger vehicle market?
In this State of the Economy Podcast, host S Ronendra Singh speaks with Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer of Marketing and Sales at Maruti Suzuki India on how the automotive industry is navigating a complex landscape of inventory challenges, fluctuating sales, and shifting consumer preferences.

India will have to lean on Chinese parts till it is capable: government officials
Amid India’s move to decrease its reliance on Chinese products and investment, top government officials have said that India will have to lean on China till it is capable enough to manufacture not only electronic components, but also those of other industries. Even though the country’s reliance has diminished, the difference is marginal. For instance, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) scrutinised import data of personal computers, laptops and tablets, and found that shipments of seven IT hardware items have declined by 3.4 per cent in 2023-24, to $8.4 billion, compared to $8.7 billion the previous fiscal. But, China’s share remains high at about 60 per cent. Similarly, a lot of components like camera modules for smartphones are still imported from Chinese vendors.

Maruti Suzuki inaugurates 500th Nexa showroom, extends network in Tier 2 and 3 towns
Maruti Suzuki India has inaugurated its 500th Nexa sales outlet in Bengaluru, Karnataka. With this, Maruti Suzuki’s sales network (Arena, Nexa and Commercial) now extends to 3,925 outlets covering 2,577 towns and cities. The company is now extending its Nexa network to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities as well.

Maruti Suzuki WagonR: Journey of India's popular tallboy hatch
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The current generation of the WagonR was introduced in 2019, the modern design and affordable price tag makes it a strong contender in the Indian markets

2024 Hyundai Alcazar launches soon: Key expected features
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The bookings for Alcazar have been opened at ₹25,000 and can be made online or from showrooms.

Tata Nexon CNG to get AMT technology, will join Tiago & Tigor CNG in same league
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Tata Nexon CNG is one of the most awaited cars in India, which is likely to launch before the upcoming festive season. What's more interesting is that the Tata Nexon CNG would receive AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) technology, just like its siblings Tiago CNG and Tigor CNG. The homegrown auto giant introduced CNG-AMT technology to the Tiago and Tigor models earlier this year. Now, this same technology is expected to make its way into the Nexon, which would further enhance the already popular compact SUV's appeal.

Skoda Kylaq SUV preparing for early 2025 debut. Key feature expectations
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Skoda Kylaq will come based on the MQB-A0-IN architecture and it will challenge some tough rivals in compact SUV segment.

Mercedes-Benz to expand presence in tier-2 cities
Mumbai: In a bid to expand its presence, German luxury carmaker Mercedez-Benz will increase its penetration in tier-2 cities. The carmaker, which has witnessed an uptick in demand from tier-2 cities, will introduce 10 service centres in CY24. “Mini-markets are growth engines and some have shown bigger growths compared to last year. Raipur and Nashik will show higher growth; however, when we look at the absolute numbers, the growth continues to come from the major metro cities in the country, including Mumbai, Delhi, and the nearby suburbs. We will continue to grow in mini-markets and go deeper in the market as higher penetration attracts more customers. We will be focusing on service first rather than sales in these areas and will be opening 10 new workshops in mini-metros and smaller markets by the end of 2024,” Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, told businessline.

MPCB alleges non-compliance with environmental standards by Mercedes-Benz India
During a routine inspection on August 23, 2024, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) found that the Mercedes-Benz assembly plant in Chakan, Pune, is not fully meeting pollution control guidelines. This breach is a significant concern, particularly for a brand like Mercedes-Benz, which is recognised for its leadership in automotive innovations and sustainable production practices.

Skoda Kylaq spotted testing: New details revealed
Skoda announced the name of its first sub-4 metre SUV, the Kylaq. A new spy video of the SUV reveals important features that can be expected. Sharing the MQB-A0-IN platform with the Kushaq and the Slavia, the Kylaq is set to enter one of the market’s most competitive segments. It will compete with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra 3X0, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, and several others. Here is what we have learned about the new Kylaq so far.

Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Force Gurkha comparison
Ladder frame SUVs are a rare breed, and Mahindra is the only manufacturer with three on offer — Thar, Thar Roxx, and Scorpio N. That said, when it comes to a practical off-roader with space to carry passengers and luggage, the only choice was the Force Gurkha five-door. Now, with the launch of the new Mahindra Thar Roxx, enthusiasts have a choice, and we compare them to tell you which is a better choice.

The interplay of premium appeal and aerodynamism in designing a Coupe SUV
In the world of automotive design, creating a vehicle that embodies both premium appeal and aerodynamic efficiency is a nuanced art form. The challenge exponentially intensifies while working with a body style like an SUV coupe, a novel design trajectory that demands an amalgamation of the opulence of luxury coupes, cutting edge aerodynamic design to elevate its sportiness, and the practicality and robustness of a SUV. It’s like walking on a tightrope, in order to create the right balance to create a world class SUV which is a harmonious blend of stunning design that captivates and practicality that empowers. Driven by superlative designs that are distinct, SUV coupes are head turners and new generation customers are swiftly gravitating towards them. 

Car Review: Mahindra Thar Roxx - Any car or the Thar.... Which Roxx better?
For the first time I've felt that the name of this column shouldn't be 'Car review, because while any SUV is a car (a broad term), the Thar Roxx just doesn't fit the traditional definition of a'car'. I drove it over two days on roads around Kochi. 

Carraro India files DRHP for Rs 1,812 crore IPO
Carraro India Limited, a Pune-based manufacturer of transmission systems for tractors and off-highway vehicles, has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch an initial public offering (IPO) aimed at raising Rs 1,812 crore. The IPO, with a face value of Rs 10 each, is a complete offer for sale (OFS) amounting to Rs 1,811.65 crore by Carraro International S.E.

Hero Glamour 125 vs Honda Shine 125: Which one to buy?
The competition in the 125 cc commuter segment is intensifying with Hero’s decision to upgrade the Glamour 125. The 2024 motorcycle boasts a host of updates; let’s see how it compares to its main competitor, the Honda Shine 125.

Hero Motors files DRHP to raise Rs 900 crore through IPO
Hero Motors, leading auto-components company backed by South Asia Growth Invest and part of the Hero Motors Company (HMC) Group, has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to raise Rs 900 crore through an initial public offering (IPO).

2024 TVS Jupiter 110 first ride review — A game changer for the segment?
Commuters are big, bulky scooters that can be unattractive to the younger members of the family. But TVS has taken one look at this and has probably changed how a commuter should look. The new TVS Jupiter 110 brings a lot of style to a segment where practicality is key — or has it? Let’s take a detailed look.

Focus on singles for now but twin-cylinders not ruled out: Ashish Joshi
Classic Legends has had a very busy last few weeks with multiple launches such as the updated Yezdi Roadster, Adventure, the new Jawa 42 and the all-new BSA Gold Star. Clearly, the Mahindra-owned bikemaker is going for the kill with more interesting launches lined up for the rest of the year.

2024 TVS Jupiter 110: Variants explained
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

TVS Motor Company has launched the new generation of the Jupiter in the Indian market. It is offered in 4 variants – Drum, Drum Alloy, Drum SXC and Disc SXC. 

TVS Jupiter 110 vs Ola S1X: Price, Specs, Features
The electric two-wheeler segment has become a formidable market force, expanding its share significantly, with EV adoption evident across tier 1, 2, and 3 cities. A growing number of two-wheeler customers are now viewing an EV scooter as their primary vehicle of choice. It’s crucial to note that when it comes down to the breast tacks, the pricing of both ICE and EV scooters is comparable. We compare the newly launched TVS Jupiter 110 and the Ola S1X.

Ola Consumer relaunches ride-sharing after a hiatus of four years, taking on Uber and Rapido, says report
Ola Consumer has reintroduced its ride-sharing feature on the Ola app after a four-year hiatus, marking a significant move in the competitive landscape against rivals Uber and Rapido, as per Moneycontrol report.

Competition for Ola! Kinetic Green plans to launch electric scooter in 18 months
Kinectic Green is all charged up and is planning a product offensive. After the launch of the e-Luna earlier this year, its now set its sight on the electric scooter space. The company has already started developing an electric scooter and aims to launch it in 18 months. This will be a direct competition for likes of Ola, electric Chetak by Bajaj and TVS iQube. That’s not all. Kinetic Green also plans to unveil an electric L5 passenger three-wheeler and golf cars designed in collaboration with Lamborghini is set to hit the markets in less than a year.

India needs to lead tech transition, create future jobs: Bhavish Aggarwal

In an interaction with PTI editors at the agency's headquarters here, he said the private sector has to do the bulk of job creation, step up and do more, while creating an enabling environment and correcting imbalances, such as that of trade, are the responsibility of the government.

Ola Electric fast losing market share, market experts tell investors to remain 'cautious'

Bhavish Aggarwal-run Ola Electric, which recently entered the public market, is fast losing market share in the domestic electric two-wheeler space to its rivals amid increasing competition, and market analysts have warned investors to remain "cautious" with its volatile stock.

A motor that cuts import of Chinese raw material
Mechanical engineer Gopal Sriram found himself nudged towards entrepreneurship after a chance meeting with the IIT-Madras professor and innovator Ashok Jhunjhunwala in 2018. Sriram’s bootstrapped startup, Viridian Ingni Propulsion, makes motors that promise to cut dependence on Chinese raw material and are “at least 30 per cent cheaper than conventional motors”.

Mobile app to give real-time traffic updates for hassle-free commuting in state capital
With the traffic department joining hands with a private mapping mobile application, commuters will get access to real-time updates on city traffic conditions.

Russia oil trade kept global prices stable, says India
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's comments on India's crude oil trade with Russia may not have been in the right spirit, coming hours after his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kyiv during which New Delhi explained the market rationale for oil imports given its substantial requirements.

RMC joins IOC to set up EV charging stns in city
The Raipur Municipal Corporation (RMC) is set to undertake the development of ten fast EV charging stations in collaboration with the Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) Indian Oil Corporation in the city. With it, the urban body will be the first in the country to implement this project with any PSU.

561 more e-vehicle charging stations in Marathwada soon
The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd (MSEDCL) will start an additional 561 e-vehicle charging stations in different parts of Marathwada soon, taking the total number of such facilities in the region to 647.

Oil giants keep rolling in fines: IOC, BPCL & others hit for missing board norms for fifth consecutive quarter
Stock exchanges BSE and NSE fined major oil refining and marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), explorer Oil India Ltd (OIL), gas utility GAIL (India) Ltd, and refiner Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL). The fines were due to non-compliance with the requisite number of independent directors and mandated women directors on their boards for the quarter ending June 30, 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive quarter these firms have faced such penalties.

ONGC opens well in KG field to raise oil production
State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) on Sunday said it has opened another well on its flagship deep-sea project in Krishna Godavari basin in Bay of Bengal, which will help augment production of crude oil and natural gas. In January this year, ONGC had started producing oil, which is converted into fuels like petrol and diesel in refineries, from the KG-DWN-98/2 or KG-D5 block.

EV-charging centre with used batteries at KIA soon
Paving the way for sustainable handling of used batteries of electric vehicles, Bescom is set to commission the country’s first rooftop-enabled second-life battery-backed EV-charging station in the city. The pilot project, involving used batteries of EVs, will soon come up near Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) and is likely to be opened to the public by the end of Sept.

E For Erratic: Why Green Ride Is Underpowered
New Delhi: Delhi prides itself as the electric vehicle capital of the country. Pushing the eco-friendly mode of travel in the city, Delhi govt expanded the EV infrastructure and claimed that the number of charging points increased from 4,700 to 18,000 in two years. Perhaps. But on the ground, the reality is quite different.

Many vehicles in Delhi-NCR emit pollutants above PUCC limits, says study
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

CNG vehicles have been emitting pollutants even 14 times higher NOx into the environment than the PUCC limits, which challenges the narrative that CNG is a cleaner fuel. (AFP)

Non-CV boost for Shriram stock
Shriram Finance Ltd has gained 32% since its inclusion in the Nifty 50 index on 28 March, beating the benchmark by a wide margin. Over the same timeframe, the shares of the non-banking financial company’s (NBFC) peer in the index, Bajaj Finance Ltd, dropped 4%. Shriram Finance’s significant outperformance versus the Nifty and Bajaj Finance can be attributed to two factors.

New-gen Mercedes CLA spy shots reveal exterior details
Source Credit: Autocar India

The third-generation Mercedes CLA has been spied on a test, revealing important details about its exterior design. The updated sedan will retain its four-door format but will feature extensive styling changes.

Husqvarna Vitpilen 250 review: Style and substance
Source Credit: Autocar India

The new-gen KTM 250 Duke is such an entertainer that it instantly became my favourite of the many 250s on sale in India, but the motorcycle you see here has changed that. It shouldn’t be much of a surprise, because the Vitpilen 250 is essentially the same bike under its Swedish skin as they both share the same platform. However, there are a couple of things this Husqvarna does differently that just earn it the edge in my books.

Maruti Suzuki announces Nexa Studio showrooms
Source Credit: Autocar India

Maruti Suzuki has announced that it now operates 500 Nexa showrooms across the country, a milestone achieved in nine years. To mark the occasion, the company has launched Nexa studio outlets more compact versions of the existing Nexa showrooms  aimed at tier two and tier three cities.

2024 Mercedes E Class review: Smooth and Easy
Source Credit: Autocar India

At Autocar India, we go to the ends of the Earth to get you the story first. In the past, we’ve been to Brazil, Indonesia, Egypt and half a dozen other countries, all so we can get behind the wheel nice and early. This time, we’ve come to an even more difficult-to-access place: China. And the car that has drawn us here is the all-new long-wheelbase Mercedes E-Class.

US buys nearly 2.5 million barrels of oil for Strategic Petroleum Reserve
The U.S. has bought nearly 2.5 million barrels of oil to help replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve after the largest sale ever from the facility in 2022, the Energy Department said on Friday.

Tesla to get lower EU tariff on China-made EVs, no relief for Chinese EV makers
The European Union has slashed its planned extra tariff on Tesla electric vehicles imported from China by more than half, the bloc's executive said on Tuesday, following further investigations requested by the company.

South Korea to advance EV battery certification scheme after fires
South Korea's government and ruling party have agreed to move up an electric vehicle battery certification programme, the party said on Sunday, as authorities seek to alleviate public safety concerns after a series of fires involving EVs.

EV startup Rivian's production chief joins Stellantis
Rivian's head of manufacturing is leaving the electric vehicle startup to join Stellantis at a time when the maker of Jeep SUVs and Ram pickups is preparing to launch a number of battery powered cars.

Hyundai Motor, Kia EVs receive top ratings in major global crash safety tests
Electric vehicle (EV) models produced by South Korea's Hyundai Motor and Kia have received top ratings in major global car crash safety tests, the automakers said on Sunday.

China meets automakers to discuss import tariffs on large cars ahead of EU tariff vote
China's Commerce Ministry met with automakers and industry associations on Friday to discuss raising import tariffs on large-engined gasoline vehicles, sounding a warning as the European Union nears a tariff decision on Chinese electric cars.

Ford Mustang celebrates 60 years with limited edition Brittany Blue revival
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

The Ford Mustang 60th Anniversary edition includes four colour options, of which the iconic Brittany Blue shade will be made in a smaller batch and will be exclusive to the Fastback body. (Ford)

Lamborghini Temerario's new V8 will make you forget V10, claims top official
Source Credit: Hindustan Times

Lamborghini Temerario's V8 engine has a 90-degree V layout, a flat plane crankshaft, two turbochargers, aluminium-alloy cylinder heads and titanium connecting rods that help keep the engine lightweight.

It's a good time to get a deal on an EV as they sit around on dealer lots