Top Indian Automobile Industry News & Updates - 17 April 2024,Wednesday
🏢 Industry
PM Modi on Elon Musk's India plans: 'Paisa kisi ka bhi ho, paseena mere desh ka lagna chahiye'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly believes that investment from across the globe is welcome but the products should have the essence of the country's soil and its citizens should be engaged in the manufacturing process.
Government preparing plans to roll out BS-VII, CAFE-III emission norms
New Delhi: In its bid to reduce air pollution caused by vehicles, govt is working on plans for roll out the stringent BS-VII and CAFE-III (Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency) emission norms. Though these are part of the next five-year roadmap for sustainability in the transport sector, sources said initial work has started for their early implementation.
Namma Yatri launches cab service in Bengaluru
Namma Yatri, an open network-based auto rickshaw-hailing platform, has rolled out its cab services in Bengaluru. The company has already onboarded over 25,000 cab drivers in the city and plans to add another 100,000 in the next six months.
A Tata-Tesla deal has just won India a big strategic edge
By the end of 2026, the first semiconductor chip from the new plant being set up by the Tata Group and Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) in Gujarat’s Dholera, will be ready to roll out, according to Frank Huang, chairman of PSMC. The central and state governments are together estimated to subsidise up to 70% of the project cost, with the Dholera unit slated to become India’s first commercial semiconductor fab
Tesla's $1 billion India connection that powers its auto ecosystem
At least eight Indian suppliers are already working with the US electric vehicle giant, according to data from Bloomberg Suppliers database. The global major is believed to be sourcing anywhere between $1-2 billion worth of auto parts from India now.
Rajasthan enters fray to attract Tesla India plant ahead of Musk's visit
Elon Musk may announce Tesla's entry in India after meet with PM Modi on April 22: Report
Elon Musk is likely to announce its carmaker Tesla's entry into Indian markets after the billionaire's meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 22, a MoneyControl report citing a senior government official said on Tuesday.
📝 Benefits of EV push up registrations in 2023-24
📝 After factory, electric car maker Tesla scouting for showroom space in India
📝 Starlink may get satellite broadband services licence
📝 Honda Elevate-based WR-V gets a dog-friendly special edition in Japan
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🎤 Interviews & Features
Warning! 5 potential fire hazards one should never leave in cars
We often come across vehicles catching fire, especially in the sub-tropical climate of India. Especially with summer temperatures gradually rising and heat waves engulfing major parts of the country, it becomes imperative for vehicle owners to take precautionary measures to prevent fire and other unfortunate incidents.
Hyundai Creta vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara — Is hybrid the practical choice?
The Hyundai Creta has been in the Indian market for long, however, Maruti Suzuki, despite being the oldest carmaker in India, has just stepped into the mid-size SUV segment with the Grand Vitara. Maruti not only stepped in late but brought the latest to the competition, in the form of hybrid tech.
We have a team that innovates with data science and AI: DTICI MD & CEO
What is the role of DTICI in driving innovation for the company?
Expecting ROCE to be higher than 20% in long run: Sunil Bohra, Uno Minda
"A lot of these plants which currently we have are running sort of closer to capacity and now for any further growth, there is no possible solution available by debottlenecking, etc, whatever was possible we have done," says Sunil Bohra, Group CFO, Uno Minda.
In car fuel economy, India might catch up with Europe
New Delhi: In a move designed to contribute to India’s ambitious climate targets and lower carbon emissions, the central government is planning to introduce the next stage of norms for fuel economy or efficiency of automobiles.
📝 Tata Altroz gets this new safety feature as standard. Check what it is
📝 Dear Elon, have no fear, India is here
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🚗 Cars / SUVs
Toyota Innova Hycross non-hybrid GX(O) launched at Rs 21 lakh
Toyota has launched a new top-spec trim of the non-hybrid version of Innova Hycross. Named GX(O), bookings for this top-spec trim started around three weeks ago at a token amount of Rs 50,000. Prior to this introduction, the non-hybrid Innova Hycross was earlier offered in G(FL) and GX trims.
Top 5 automatic SUVs under Rs 10 lakh
SUV sales are at an all-time high, and it doesn’t take a genius to figure that out. In the last decade, its market share has been rapidly expanding, decimating the sedan class. As it approaches 50 per cent market share, can anyone recall when the Indian automobile sector had two SUVs as the top best-selling vehicles in the country?
SUV sales surge in India's preowned car market
New Delhi: The SUV segment of the passenger vehicle market has emerged as a top priority for car enthusiasts in the preowned car market in 2024, with sales witnessing a notable surge of over 40% in the first quarter, as per a report by Cars24.
Sheeva.AI enables in-vehicle payment technology for Citroen C3 Aircross SUV AT
New Delhi: Sheeva.AI has introduced in-vehicle payment technology through SheevaConnect product suite for Citroën C3 Aircross SUV AT, a budget-friendly automatic midsize SUV in India.
MG Motor India opens ownership experience program for Gloster
New Delhi: MG Motor India has announced an ownership program for MG Gloster. The newly-introduced program aims to elevate the experience further by ensuring zero expenditure on car maintenance.
Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus 9-seater SUV launched at Rs 11.39 lakh
Mahindra has launched the nine-seater Bolero Neo Plus in the market. In its latest form, the Bolero Neo Plus is available in two variants– P4 and P10— priced at Rs 11.39 lakh and Rs 12.49 lakh (ex-showroom), respectively. Compared to the seven-seater sibling– Bolero Neo– the Neo Plus is expensive by Rs. 1.49 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh for the equivalent variant.
Suzuki Motor crosses 30 million units production milestone in India, Alto, Swift & WagonR top the list
Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation has surpassed production milestone of manufacturing 30 million vehicles in India by the end of March 2024.
Honda lines up hybrid cars even before India duty cut
Even before India a formally decides to reduce duty on hybrid cars, Japanese auto giant Honda has lined up at least one product launch on this technology in the next few years to capitalise on the demand momentum.
📝 Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024 coming in May. Here's what we know so far
📝 Nissan Magnite to be recalled due to faulty door handle sensor. Check details
📝 Jeep Meridian facelift confirmed to launch later this year
📝 Ford files patent for another new car. Is it an MPV or SUV?
📝 Kia Carens receives subtle yet significant updates: Key highlights
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Electric-Cars / SUVs
📝 Electronic Stability Control or ESC: Everything you need to know about it
📝 2024 Jeep Wrangler set for 22 April launch: Here's what to expect
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⛟ Commercial Vehicles
📝 Drivers of diesel autos seek 40k aid from govt to replace their vehicles
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🏗 Construction & Agri Machinery
CASE India rolls out 20,000th vibratory compactor from Pithampur, MP, facility
New Delhi: CASE Construction Equipment, a brand of CNH, has rolled out 20,000th Vibratory Compactors from its facility in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, the sole manufacturing hub of CNH for compactors globally .
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🏍 2/3 Wheelers
25th Anniversary Suzuki Hayabusa launched at Rs 17.70 lakh
Suzuki has launched the 25th anniversary edition of the Hayabusa in India, priced at Rs 17.70 lakh, ex-showroom. The new special edition flagship from Suzuki gets a few unique touches to make it stand out from the standard version.
Mavrick 440 announces customer deliveries to commence across India
Hero Motocorp recently announced the prices for its bike Mavrick 440 starting at Rs1.99 lakh. It is offered in 3 variants including Base, Mid, and Top while the latter two variants are priced at Rs 2.14 lakh and Rs 2.24 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). It has now officially announced the commencement of deliveries of Mavrick 440 to its customers across the nation.
📝 Ducati Panigale V2 gets new black livery, bookings open
📝 Aprilia India announces actor John Abraham as its new brand ambassador
📝 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 range launched in India, priced from ₹13.95 lakh
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🚲 Electric 2/3 Wheelers
MS Dhoni ventures into EV space with EMotorad partnership: ‘I’m a fan of new-age companies’
Pune-based startup EMotorad announced its partnership with former Indian Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni which marks the cricketer's entry in the electric vehicle space. Expressing his excitement for this venture, MS Dhoni said, “The future is in our hands. We are in an era where innovation plays a huge role in shaping sustainable solutions, and I’m a fan of new-age companies that build these."
Ola launches affordable S1X range: How does it fare against competition?
Ola has revised the prices of the S1 X range of electric scooters. As a result, the base S1 X variant, the entry-level model for the Ola range of e-scooters, is now priced at Rs 69,999 (ex-showroom). This means a price slash of Rs 10,000. Prices for the other variants of the S1 X range have also been reduced.
Tesla Power India, E-Ashwa Auto join to launch E2W with fire safety technology
New Delhi:Tesla Power India Pvt. Ltd., recognized for its innovative energy storage solutions, and E-Ashwa Automotive, known for its electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, are introducing in partnership the first electric 2-wheeler in India with a built-in fire suppression system.
Revamp Moto unveils plans to expand in western India with empowerment centres
New Delhi: Revamp Moto, a modular electric two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched its Phase 1 plan to expand in western India. The plan includes the inauguration of 12 empowerment centres/dealership stores across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Goa in 2024, with plans for nationwide expansion in the pipeline, the company said in a media release.
Montra Electric partners Bike Bazaar for electric three-wheeler retail finance
Montra Electric, the EV brand of the Murugappa Group has joined hands with Bike Bazaar to enter into a strategic vehicle financing arrangement for its customers.
EV motorcycle maker Raptee rolls out first electric bike from its Chennai factory
Chennai: The electric motorbike market is set to see a new entrant. Chennai-based electric vehicle (EV) start-up Raptee Energy on Sunday rolled out its first electric bike from its manufacturing plant in Chennai.
Raptee Energy rolls out its first e-motorcycle from Chennai plant
Chennai-based electric vehicle start-up Raptee Energy has rolled out its first production-ready e-motorcycle from its manufacturing plant.
MS Dhoni invests in e-bike company EMotorad
A few days after cricketer MS Dhoni was seen riding the EMotorad Doodle V3 e-bike, the company has now announced that the former Indian cricket captain has invested in the company, which entails equity ownership while also taking up his new role as the company’s brand endorser.
📝 TVS starts export of BMW EV
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⚙ Components
Happy Forgings bags order to supply brake flanges to global manufacturer; stock surges
Bengaluru: Happy Forgings Ltd (HFL) has bagged an order for the supply of brake flanges for passenger vehicles to a global tier-1 manufacturer of automobile driveline components and systems. According to the stock exchange filing, supplies under the contract will commence from Q4FY26/Q1FY27 after the interim part approval process.
📝 Remsons Industries bags fourth Tata Motors order for spare wheel winches
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🌇 Allied Industries
M&M to start SDV journey next year, ramps up software team
The largely mechanical automobile we have known so far, is swiftly transforming itself to be more software-driven and be a software-defined vehicle (SDV).
Lam Research to donate software worth INR 241 cr to upskill semiconductor workforce in India
The agreement follows a joint statement and fact sheet issued by the governments of the US and India at the White House in June 2023 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US.
Steel Strips Wheels secures alloy wheel supply agreement with a PV OEM
Steel Strips Wheels on Tuesday announced that it has successfully secured a maiden entry as a supplier of aluminium wheels to one of the passenger car manufacturers in India. “This milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering unparalleled value to our customers,” the company said in a regulatory filing.
Safeguarding connected cars from cybersecurity threats
In an age where technology seamlessly integrates into various aspects of our lives, the concept of smart cars has become increasingly prevalent. These modern vehicles boast an array of features aimed at enhancing convenience, safety, and connectivity. However, along with these advancements comes the looming threat of cybersecurity breaches, which can compromise the safety and privacy of both the vehicle and its occupants.
Apollo Tyres gets Rs 2.06 crore tax demand from Tamil Nadu officials
The Deputy Commissioner (CT), Tamil Nadu has passed an order under GST Act demanding GST and levying consequential penalty of Rs 2.06 crore, Apollo Tyres said in a regulatory filing.
📝 Auto battery makers shine on EV prospects
📝 TVS SCS arm earns John Deere Partner level recognition for 2023
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🌢 Fuels, Lubricants & Charging Stations
Savita Oil bets on Ester molecule formulation to drive growth, sees additional Rs 1,000 crore topline potential
Savita Oil Technologies has become the first lubricant company in India to start manufacturing Ester molecule (domestically), which is used in biodegradable applications and also acts as a cooling agent in two- and three-wheeler electric vehicles.
Govt hikes windfall tax on crude oil; ONGC & OIL to take hit
New Delhi: The Government has hiked the windfall tax on crude oil to INR 9,600 per metric ton with effect from Tuesday from INR 6,800 earlier, as part of its fortnightly revision.
Petrol sales up 7%, diesel declines 9.5% in April
India's petrol consumption soared 7% in the first half of April but diesel sales were down 9.5% ahead of the onset of a harsh summer season that is set to crank up fuel demand, preliminary data of state-owned firms showed on Tuesday. Petrol sales of three state-owned firms, which control 90% of the fuel market, rose to 1.22 million tonnes during April 1 to 15 when compared to 1.14 million tonnes of consumption in the same period last year.
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💸 Finance & Insurance
CASHe forays into E2W financing with 'CASHe Green’ platform
New Delhi: CASHe, a credit-led AI-driven financial wellness platform, has launched 'CASHe Green’ for electric 2-wheeler (E2W) financing. CASHe Green offers customized finance solutions for the rapidly expanding E2W segment.
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📖 Magazines News
Beijing Motor Show preview: India-bound cars, SUVs and more
SC Autocar India
The Beijing Motor Show returns for the first time since 2019, and will be held between April 24 and May 4. The show will debut a long list of new cars and SUVs, including a few that will also come to India.
Tata Nexon, Punch overtake Brezza to top SUV, MPV sales chart in FY2024
Source Credit: Autocar India
The Tata Nexon has retained its title as India’s best-selling utility vehicle (UV) for the third fiscal year in a row in FY2024 with wholesales of 1,71,697 units in the 12-month period of April 2023 to March 2024. The Nexon, which is equipped with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, was also the country’s best-selling SUV in FY2023 and FY2022.
Indians bought over 42 lakh cars, SUVs in FY2024
Source Credit: Autocar India
The Indian passenger vehicle segment sold 4.21 million units in FY2024, which is an 8.22 percent increase over FY2023 (3.89 million units). UVs, which comprise of SUVs and MPVs, continue to be the highest contributor this year too. SUVs accounted for 51 percent of the overall PV wholesales in FY23, which is set to increase this year.
Suzuki Hayabusa 25th Anniversary Celebration edition launched at Rs 17.70 lakh
Source Credit: Autocar India
Suzuki Motorcycle India has introduced a special edition version of the Hayabusa in India marking the motorcycle’s 25th anniversary. Nine months after its global debut, the Hayabusa 25th Anniversary Edition has been launched at Rs 17.70 lakh (ex-showroom) with a range of visual enhancements over the standard motorcycle.
Mercedes Benz ends trials for range extender technology
Source Credit: Autocar India
Our sister publication Autocar UK understands that Mercedes-Benz has pulled the plug on tests exploring range-extender drivetrains as a potential way to improve the utility and appeal of its electric cars.
Maserati GranCabrio Folgore revealed as 761hp convertible EV
Source Credit: Autocar India
Maserati has unveiled the new GranCabrio Folgore, a soft-roofed electric GT that promises to meld high-performance thrills with a tranquil open-air driving experience. The Folgore (Italian for lightning) swaps its combustion-engined sibling’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 for three electric motors from the hard-roofed Maserati GranTurismo Folgore.
Mahindra Bolero Neo+ launched at Rs 11.39 lakh
Source Credit: Autocar India
Mahindra has launched the new Bolero Neo+ in India with prices starting from Rs 11.39 lakh for the entry-level P4 trim, and going up to Rs 12.49 lakh for the top-spec P10 (both prices ex-showroom, India). The Bolero Neo+ is a three-row, 9-seater version of the sub-compact Bolero Neo SUV.
Jeep Meridian facelift teased, launch confirmed for 2024
Source Credit: Autocar India
Jeep India has confirmed that the Meridian SUV will receive a facelift this year. The SUV is essentially a three-row version of the Compass and rivals the Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster in India.
Jeep Wrangler facelift India details revealed ahead of April 22 launch
Source Credit: Autocar India
Jeep has released details on the India-spec Wrangler facelift ahead of its launch. The refreshed rugged SUV gets a subtle makeover and more creature comforts, but it remains the same mechanically.
Jeep Compass gets 272hp 2.0 turbo petrol engine overseas
Source Credit: Autocar India
Jeep has added a new 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine to the Compass line-up internationally. This new engine churns out a massive-for-its class 272hp and 400Nm of torque, making it the most powerful Compass. The same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol also sees duty in the Jeep Wrangler and the Grand Cherokee SUVs in the Indian market. This engine will also see duty on the Jeep Commander abroad, which is essentially the Meridian SUV on sale in India.
Hero Mavrick 440 deliveries begin
Source Credit: Autocar India
Hero has commenced deliveries of the Mavrick 440 – its flagship model – pan-India. The bike is priced between Rs 1.99 lakh-2.24 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 launch this year
Source Credit: Autocar India
As we reported yesterday, Royal Enfield has six new models in the pipeline for the financial year. The first of these is the Guerrilla 450, which will be launching sometime between July - September 2024.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 launched at Rs 18.85 lakh
Source Credit: Autocar India
After an exceedingly long wait, Aprilia has launched the Tuareg 660 in India, with prices ranging between Rs 18.85 lakh-19.16 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Aprilia has also updated the prices for its flagship – the RSV4 Factory – and the 660 twins.
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📰 International News
Tesla supplier Piedmont Lithium gets key North Carolina mining permit
North Carolina regulators have approved a state mining permit for Tesla supplier Piedmont Lithium to develop one of the largest U.S. sources of the key electric vehicle battery metal, although key financing and local regulatory challenges remain.
Nissan shows in-construction all-solid-state battery pilot line in Japan
New Delhi: Nissan Tuesday showed its in-construction all-solid-state battery pilot line to members of the media at its Yokohama Plant in Kanagawa Prefecture. The pilot line is aimed to further promote development and innovative manufacturing technologies for the batteries, the company said.
Nissan starts construction for pilot solid-state battery manufacturing line in Yokohama
Japanese auto major Nissan has showed its in-construction all-solid-state battery pilot line to members of the media at its Yokohama Plant in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Honda to launch next-generation EVs in China by 2027
Japan's Honda Motor plans to launch six next-generation electric vehicle (EV) models branded Ye in China by 2027, the automaker said on Tuesday.
Tesla layoffs: Global job cuts to impact leading markets US, China
Tesla's global job cuts include reducing staff in the U.S. and China, the automakers' two biggest markets, across sales, tech, and engineering, five sources briefed on the matter said.
Tesla's market valuation declines below $500 billion as risks pile up
Tesla Inc. shares extended their decline for 2024, pushing the electric-vehicle maker’s market valuation below $500 billion, as a round of job cuts this week further soured sentiment around the company.
📝 UK's Octopus to lease out China's Omoda EVs, offer charging services
📝 Poland to decide by summer if European funds will support EV plant
📝 Jaguar develops energy-storage unit using Range Rover batteries
📝 GM moving to new Detroit headquarters in 2025
📝 Auto distributor Inchcape to sell UK retail business for USD 431 mn
📝 Nissan says it will make next-generation EV batteries by 2028
📝 Elon Musk's Tesla to fire more than 14000 employees, preparing company for...
📝 Audi E-Tron GT set for upgrade: Enhanced performance and tech incoming
📝 Nissan takes cue from Tesla for cheaper EV. Why should it matter to you?
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