10 Auto launches to watch out for this September 2024: Hyundai Alcazar, Mercedes-Maybach EQS and more
The festive spirit has already begun to sweep across India, and the automotive sector is buzzing with activity as carmakers prepare to introduce a range of new models in September 2024. Following a series of launches in August, September promises an exciting lineup of vehicles across various segments, including SUVs, sedans, and electric vehicles.

Auto Industry sales will surge on back of improved monsoon and festive season demands
The domestic passenger vehicle industry volumes declined by low single digit in August 2024 as compared with August 2023, because of weak retail demand trends and higher inventory levels at the dealerships according to Kotak Institutional Equities.

Road crashes biggest cause of deaths due to unintentional injuries: Report
Road crashes are the biggest cause of deaths due to unintentional injuries in India, accounting for more than 43 per cent of such fatalities, with overspeeding being the leading reason, according to a new report.

Hybrid cars to 'continue' with 48% tax, new e-bus tenders in line, says Amitabh Kant
New Delhi: Being a large automobile manufacturer, India has a big chance in green mobility. With the world going through a disruption, if we do not make the shift now, we could lose the opportunity to be the largest electric vehicle (EV) maker, said Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog on Tuesday.

Automakers in top gear ahead of festive season
Mumbai: At least two malls in Kerala were decked up to play host to a mini auto expo in late August, looking to cash in on the pre-festive cheer ahead of the state's biggest festival Onam later this month. Desperate automakers had lined up their best and latest offerings, hoping to give the festive season a positive start and reverse the trend of subdued growth seen since the start of the year. "We have decorated vehicles that roam around creating curios-ity, generating sales leads. Besides malls, we have started events in residential apartments. People get enticed by offers like lucky draws for winning gold coins, laptops, etc. There are heavy discounts that we offer too. Besides, we also motivate sales staff by offering generous incentives," a dealer of Maruti Suzuki said. In addition to rolling out new cars in the showrooms, car and SUV makers are aggressively pushing for consumer engagements through several events held at the local level. These events are tied to the pre-festive cheer, ahead of Onam and the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities, which begin on September7. 

Toyota, Maruti get into top gear with marketing for hybrids in Uttar Pradesh
From Instagram ads to telesales, Japanese automakers Toyota and Maruti Suzuki are going all out to market their hybrid cars in the most populous Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, aiming to cash in on tax waivers that upset many of their rivals.

Auto sales remain mixed in August: Passenger Vehicles, CV volumes drop, Electric two-wheelers see strong growth
Automobile companies reported weak wholesale figures for August, driven by slower volumes in the Passenger Vehicle (PV) and Commercial Vehicle (CV) segments. While domestic two-wheeler sales marginally surpassed market expectations, both PV and CV sales declined on a year-on-year (YoY) basis.

Mercedes-Benz India expands Sustainability Garage with new Centres of Excellence
Tech driven Centre of Excellence

Kia and Audi lead 2024 Customer Experience Index, FADA and Frost & Sullivan reveal
Customer experience across key areas

3.5% discount unlikely to drive old vehicles towards scrapping shops

“The current incentive isn't sufficient to make consumers choose scrapping over selling or continuing to use their cars," said Puneet Gupta, director, S&P Global Mobility. Gupta highlighted that many people hold onto their old vehicles primarily because they lack the funds for a new purchase. He pointed out that if the incentives were raised to 10 per cent, as seen in China, it could significantly influence consumer behaviour.
 

The road ahead: Steel recycle mandate for automakers on the anvil
 

DNA Auto Awards 2024: Citroen Basalt nominated for ‘CAR OF THE YEAR’; check price, features
The third edition of the DNA Auto Awards will be held on October 7, 2024 (Monday). This esteemed gathering applauds the exceptional innovation and achievement of car manufacturers in the world of automobiles. It will have several award categories, each having its own set of nominees. The one category everyone is going to keep an eye on is the 'CAR OF THE YEAR', the absolute highlight of the upcoming event.

DNA Auto Awards 2024: Mahindra Thar Roxx nominated for ‘CAR OF THE YEAR’; check price, features
The much-awaited third season of the DNA Auto Awards is set to be held on October 7, 2024 (Monday). The grand event will serve as a platform to honour and celebrate excellence in the automobile sector. The event promises to showcase the best in the automotive industry, highlighting their innovation, performance, and design. It will feature several categories, each having its own set of nominees. Among the several categories set to be unveiled at the event, ‘CAR OF THE YEAR’ stands out as a pinnacle of automotive achievement.  

Bumper discount: Mahindra Thar gets up to Rs 1.5 lakh off
The debut of the Mahindra Thar Roxx has prompted notable discounts on the three-door Thar for the first time, offering savings of up to Rs 1.5 lakh. According to Team BHP, Mahindra is offering deals on various trims, which are available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drivetrains, with these offers valid until the end of the month.

Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo edition launched at Rs 15.79 lakh: What’s different?
Skoda has finally launched the Monte Carlo edition of Slavia with prices starting at Rs 15.79 lakh and going up to Rs 18.49 lakh (both ex-showroom). The Czech brand marked its 112th anniversary of its debut at Rallye Monte Carlo. Born out of Skoda’s motorsport heritage, the Monte Carlo edition of Slavia gets sportier enhancements over the standard model both outside and inside.

Maruti contributes INR 3 cr to PM CARES fund for flood relief
New Delhi: Maruti Suzuki India on Tuesday said it has donated INR 3 crore to the PM CARES fund for flood relief across various states. The company's contribution aims to support the government's relief and rebuilding efforts across the country, the auto major said in a statement.

New Kia Carnival bookings open at select dealerships
Kia is gearing up to launch the new Carnival in India on October 3, and ahead of its official launch, a few Kia dealerships are accepting bookings for the Kia MPV. The new Kia Carnival’s price will be announced next month and will initially be sold as CBUs. Deliveries for the same are expected to happen later in October.

New MG Windsor teaser: Exterior design revealed
JSW MG Motor has dropped another teaser of the Windsor EV ahead of its official launch on September 11. This is the first time MG Motor has revealed the design of the Crossover Utility Vehicle. We take a closer look at Windsor’s exteriors.

Hyundai launches Aura Hy-CNG E trim at INR 7.49 lakh
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched the Aura Hy-CNG E trim at INR 7,48,600 (ex-showroom), responding to the growing demand for fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles in India. The new Hyundai Aura Hy-CNG E trim is now available at INR 7,48,600 (ex-showroom), offering customers an eco-friendly and cost-efficient mobility solution. This new variant caters to eco-conscious consumers, aligning with Hyundai’s customer-centric approach.

Honda Cars India introduces ‘Great Honda Fest’ for customer satisfaction
Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL) has kicked off the festive season by launching a multi-media campaign for ‘The Great Honda Fest.’ This campaign celebrates India's diverse festivals and introduces special offers to enhance car affordability and customer satisfaction.

Maruti Suzuki Alto, S Presso cheaper by up to Rs 6500
Ahead of the festive season, there’s a downpour of discounts. Maruti Suzuki has reduced the prices for select variants of the Alto K10 and S-Presso. These models, available under the Maruti Suzuki Arena banner, have seen price cuts due to rising inventory concerns.

Mahindra and Mahindra offers HUGE discounts on Thar and XUV400 EV: Check all details
Indian automobile giant Mahindra and Mahindra is offering significant discounts on the three-door Mahindra Thar and the all-electric Mahindra XUV400, currently available at dealerships, reported HT Auto. The discounts, which vary, aim to clear inventory and maintain market share.

Domestic CV industry’s wholesale volumes to post nominal growth of 0-3% in FY25, says ICRA
The domestic commercial vehicle (CV) industry’s wholesale volumes is expected to witness a modest year-over-year (YoY) growth of 0- 3 percent in FY2025, revised from a previously estimated decline of 4-7 per cent, stated a report by ICRA. This adjustment follows better-than-expected growth in the first four months of FY2025 and anticipations of a slight increase in demand in the latter half of the fiscal year. FY2025 will mark the second consecutive year of subdued growth, following 1 per cent and 3 per cent YoY increases in wholesale and retail sales respectively in FY2024, it added.

Ashok Leyland inaugurates Uptime Solution Center for CV operators
Ashok Leyland, a prominent commercial vehicle manufacturer in India and a flagship of the Hinduja Group, inaugurated its Uptime Solution Center at Ennore on 3rd September 2024. This advanced facility is designed to transform the aftersales service sector by leveraging cutting-edge technology and predictive analytics, aimed at enhancing fleet utilisation for commercial vehicle operators across the nation.

Skoda launches Kushaq, Slavia Sportline range: Specs, prices, features & more
To commemorate the 112th anniversary of its debut at Rallye Monte Carlo, Skoda has introduced the Sportline versions of  Kushaq and Slavia at Rs 14.70 Lakh and Rs 14.05 Lakh respectively. 

Tata Curvv vs Hyundai Creta comparison: Price, Engine Specs
Tata Motors has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging the most successful mid-size SUV, the Hyundai Creta, with the launch of the Curvv at a competitive price. The Curvv, following the Citroen Basalt, is the second Coupe SUV to enter this segment, and both newcomers are priced below their competitors. The question remains whether the Curvv has what it takes to dethrone the long-reigning Creta.

New-gen Maruti Dzire spied again, new details emerge
Maruti Suzuki’s biggest launch of the year happened in May in the form of the fourth-gen Swift. Now, the Indo-Japanese carmaker is gearing up to launch the all-new Dzire based on the Swift. The third-gen Dzire has been spotted testing on several instances over the past few months.

How heatwaves and floods are putting auto sales under the weather
As the Nifty Auto index ran up 40% this year, outpacing the Nifty 50’s 16% gain, one would expect auto retail sales to cruise steadily.

Mahindra showcases CBG-powered tractor technology in New Delhi
Mahindra Tractors, India's leading tractor brand, recently showcased its first CBG (Compressed Bio-Gas) powered Yuvo Tech+ tractor in New Delhi. The event took place in the presence of Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. This tractor represents a significant advancement in tractor technology by using compressed bio-gas, which is a green and renewable fuel, thus reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting down carbon emissions.

New Royal Enfield Classic 350 — Features explained
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been the company’s best-seller for many years. Over the years, the motorcycle has seen many changes, including the engine, although it remains to be a 350cc motorcycle. The biggest update the motorcycle saw was the introduction of the J-Series engine, a big step away from the older push-rod activated UCE unit.

Kawasaki Ninja range gets discounts in September
Out of the premium motorcycle brands in India, Kawasaki has managed to beat its Japanese rivals to be on top in terms of sales. With the introduction of new motorcycles, periodic updates even though they are small, and discounts, have helped the brand. For September, Kawasaki is offering discounts on its Ninja range.

M&M aims for pole position in midsize motorcycles with Classic Legends; in a “marathon,” says Anand Mahindra
Mumbai: Mahindra & Mahindra’s (M&M) first stint in the two-wheeler industry, through commuter motorcycles and scooters, didn’t quite go as planned, leading to the conglomerate exiting the sector. In its second stint, which started with the launch of the Jawa brand in November 2018, through its subsidiary Classic Legends, it is aiming for the pole position.

Jawa Yezdi launches 350 Jawa 42 FJ at INR 1.99 lakh
Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles has launched the 350 Jawa 42 FJ, an exciting addition to their "42 Life" series, priced at INR 1,99,142. Celebrating superior design and riding experience, the new motorcycle aims to merge classic aesthetics with modern features, continuing the legacy initiated by earlier models like the 42 and 42 Bobber.

From school days to motorcycles: Anand Mahindra shares the fascinating story behind Jawa’s name
Indian motorcycle brand Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles recently unveiled an intriguing backstory about its iconic name, thanks to Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group. Mahindra shared that the decision to adopt the name "Jawa" for their premium bike segment was inspired by a personal connection (via CNBCTV 18).

Bajaj Auto showcases innovative eco-friendly models at IBET Expo 2024
 

EMPS subsidy: Will electric vehicles cost more, or is FAME III the solution?
Electric vehicles have been in the subsidy dilemma since FAME II came to an end. Following the end of the subsidy, the government quickly announced the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS), which is also coming to an end soon.

Daewoo India and eBikeGo collaborate for e-bikes
Daewoo India and eBikeGo have announced a strategic collaboration to develop and launch a range of personal mobility vehicles over the next five years. The partnership aims to revolutionise the personal electric mobility segment in India by combining Daewoo's global technological expertise with eBikeGo's innovative electric vehicle solutions. Both companies are committed to sustainability and expanding their offerings in the Indian market.

Joseph Panakkal resigns as HR Head of ZF Group
ZF Group, a German technology company that supplies systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, has announced that Joseph Panakkal has resigned as the Head of Human Resources, effective November 29.

Rocky road to growth in Cummins
 

CCI greenlights Rane Holdings’ 51% stake buy in Rane NSK Steering Systems
Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Tuesday said that it has approved Rane Holdings’ proposed acquisition of remaining 51 per cent stake from the joint venture partner Japan-based NSK Ltd in Rane NSK Steering Systems Pvt Ltd (RNSS).  “Commission approves the proposed acquisition for the balance 51 percent shareholding by Rane Holdings Limited in Rane NSK Steering Systems Private limited”, said a CCI post in “X”, formerly Twitter. 

IIMBAA Mobility SIG organises Global Mobility Summit 2024 to drive the revolutionising mobility scenario
The summit began with a keynote address from Raghavendra Vaidya, Managing Director & CEO of DTIC, India, who stressed the importance of partnerships and collaborations in the evolving mobility landscape. Vaidya highlighted the essential role that startups and academic institutions will play in driving innovation over the next five years, setting the tone for the day’s discussions.

CarDekho Group invests in Carrum to drive towards sustainable mobility ecosystem
CarDekho Group has made a strategic investment in Carrum, a fleet management services company founded by Karan Jain in early 2024. This move aligns with CarDekho's vision of developing a greener, more sustainable mobility ecosystem. The partnership, announced on September 3, 2024, aims to enhance Carrum's efforts in decarbonisation, fleet management efficiency, and the improvement of driver livelihoods.

Mahindra Thar gets up to Rs 1.5 lakh discount for the first time
With the launch of the Mahindra Thar Roxx, it isn't surprising that the 3-door is now being offered at a discount. Additionally, with the festive season approaching, dealerships will be coming up with even greater benefits to woo customers. While models like the XUV300, XUV700, and Scorpio N do not get any official discounts in September, the rest of Mahindra’s portfolio gets significant benefits.

Kia Carnival bookings open at dealer level
The new Kia Carnival will go on sale on October 3. Ahead of the official price announcement, a handful of Kia dealers have started accepting unofficial bookings for the luxury MPV. Initially, the Carnival will be sold as a full import, with local assembly expected to begin a little later.

Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV review: Pinnacle of luxury in green clothes
The Maybach brand is all about elevating levels of luxury and refinement. While at one time it was confined to large stately cars, these days it’s on almost everything – SUVs, sports cars, and now an EV, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS. But can an EV make for a good Maybach? With an electric’s inherently quieter and smoother running, that’s half the job done. What about the rest?

India's top 3 carmakers record sales decline in August 2024
The heady days of high single-digit growth may be behind for the Indian passenger vehicle industry. If the wholesales numbers for August 2024 released by some carmakers are any indication, then the month has not been as impressive as August 2023. The combined despatches last month of seven carmakers, at 3,36,457 units, is down 1 percent year-on-year.

Tata Curvv EV, Nexon EV range revised due to new MIDC test cycles
Tata Motors has announced revised range figures for its entire EV portfolio after the government (MoRTH) added more parameters to the MIDC test cycles. Earlier, these figures were solely based on a city (Urban) driving cycle, but the ministry has now mandated all carmakers to test and declare range values that include Urban and extra urban cycles.

Hero regains the lead in August 2024 bike, scooter sales
Sales figures for the month of August 2024 are in and here’s how every big two-wheeler OEM fared ahead of entering the long Indian festive season. 

EV sales in India decline 10 percent in August
Retail sales demand for electric passenger cars, SUVs, and MPVs fell to its lowest level in the calendar year to date in August 2024. The 6,335 units bought and delivered last month represent a 10 percent decrease year on year (August 2023: 7,012 units). Month on month, the decline is even sharper—19 percent—compared to July 2024’s 7,898 units. This data is based on retail sales figures published on the Vahan website (September 2, 7am). 

Hyundai Aura E CNG launched at Rs 7.49 lakh
Hyundai has launched the Aura E CNG at Rs 7.49 lakh, making it the most affordable CNG variant on offer with the sedan. The sedan now offers CNG on three different variants, namely E, S and SX.

Honda City gets up to Rs 1.14 lakh off this month
Honda is offering big discounts on all its models in Septmeber 2024. The benefits include cash discounts, loyalty and exchange bonuses, and corporate schemes. See how much you can save on the new Honda Elevate, City and City hybrid, and the Amaze this month.

Ather only 2W EV maker to see growth over July sales
Electric two-wheeler manufacturers have been impacted by the now-reduced subsidy, which led to most EV makers hiking prices. While this can somewhat dampen demand, the wallet-friendly long-term USP of an EV remains a big draw when compared to the price of petrol.

Jawa 42 FJ launched at Rs 1.99 lakh
After the launch of the updated 42 last month, Classic Legends has now introduced a new model called Jawa 42 FJ. This new model is part of the 42 range and costs Rs 26,000 more than the base Jawa 42. Prices for the Jawa 42 FJ range from 1.99 lakh - Rs 2.20 lakh.

New Aston Martin Vanquish revealed as 835hp V12 flagship
 

Volkswagen's CUPRA 'at risk' from planned EU tariffs, says brand CEO
An electric vehicle made in China by Volkswagen's CUPRA brand would be "wiped out" if the European Commission followed through with planned import tariffs of 21.3% on the vehicle, the brand's CEO told Reuters.

China hits Canada with anti-dumping probe on canola imports in response to EV tariffs
Source Credit: Reuters, The Economic Times

China said on Tuesday it plans to start an anti-dumping investigation into canola imports from Canada, after Ottawa moved to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, lifting prices of domestic rapeseed oil futures to a one-month peak.