Top Indian Automobile Industry News & Updates - 21 Feb 2025,Friday

🏢 Industry

Japan's Suzuki trims India sales target amid competition, scales back EV launches
Tokyo: Japanese carmaker Suzuki Motor has trimmed its sales target in India, its "most important market", and scaled back its line-up of electric car launches, even as it plans to expand global sales by a third to 4.2 million vehicles by fiscal year 2030.
India’s EV race with China depends on trains
The road to faster adoption of electric vehicles in India will pass through the railways — not the romantic train travel that stirred the imagination of writers for over a century and continues to inspire Bollywood, but efficient high-speed journeys.
EV policy deadline can be extended if Tesla shows interest
The government is open to extending the deadline for availing benefits under the proposed EV policy if Elon Musk’s Tesla expresses interest in applying. Government sources told TNIE that the new electric vehicle (EV) policy guidelines will be notified by March 15.
Govt set to notify EV policy with new investment rules as Tesla prepares for India entry
The Centre is reportedly planning to notify the new electric vehicle (EV) policy, which it had announced last March, soon. As per the report of Times of India's Sidhartha, the new policy may mandate turnover of Rs 2,500 crore by the second year of operations.
Auto sector demand hinges on marriage season, infrastructure revival: Report
The auto sector now eyes the upcoming marriage season and revival in government infrastructure projects, for boost in sales, especially for the two-wheelers and entry-level cars, says a report by InCred Research.
ETCVS: ARAI developing demo cases with 5G for connected vehicles: Ujjwala Karle
Reflecting on the uniqueness of Indian market and need for used cases to build robust connected technology systems and best practices, Karle shares, ““ARAI is developing demo cases with 5G for connected vehicles. We are also in the process of creating threat libraries to strengthen cybersecurity.”
Donald Trump says it would be 'unfair' to US if Elon Musk built Tesla factory in India
President Donald Trump has said if Elon Musk's Tesla built a factory in India to avoid that country's tariffs, it would be unfair to the US.
Number of EVs on Indian roads likely to cross 28 million in 2030
New Delhi: The cumulative number of EVs on Indian roads will likely cross 28 million units in 2030, generating significant demand for energy from the grid, according to the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA), a leading industry body focused on e-mobility, energy storage and hydrogen.
Suzuki Motor rethinks India strategy amid falling market share, EV competition
NEW DELHI: Suzuki Motor Corporation (Japan), the parent company of Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), on Thursday said that it needs to rethink its strategy as ‘the business environment has changed due to declining market share in India and intensified competition in electric vehicles (EVs)“.
Maharashtra: RTO drive against vehicles with fancy number plates
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner's Office has launched a statewide crackdown on vehicles with fancy number plates and those without High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), officials said on Wednesday. All Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) have been instructed to conduct a month-long special drive from February 18 to March 15, as per a directive issued on Monday.
Tata Motors sees a top-tier exodus ahead of demerger
Mumbai: Tata Motors Ltd has seen a bevy of senior executives leave the automaker in the past few months at a time when it is undergoing a major restructuring, splitting its operations into two separate listed companies handling commercial vehicles (CV) and passenger vehicles (PV) businesses.
Volvo, Mercedes, BMW paid too: Govt defends $1.4bn tax demand on VW
Indian tax authorities have defended the $1.4-billion tax demand on Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd, claiming that its peers, including Volvo, Mercedes, and BMW, have also paid a 30% duty on cars brought into the country after breaking them down into individual parts.
IIOTM 2025: India's path to smart manufacturing to be backed by big ideas, bold R&D and power of technology
In a discussion on the future of India's manufacturing sector, leaders from across industries called for a fundamental shift in how the country approaches digital transformation. With a focus on smart manufacturing and autonomy, the discussion explored how technological innovation, combined with a robust strategy for upskilling and R&D, could reshape the nation's manufacturing landscape.
Automotive ER&D firms struggle as Trump's tariffs, Chinese carmakers disrupt global markets
Growth at Indian mid-cap engineering, research and development (ER&D) companies slowed in the first nine months of FY25 as the world's largest carmakers faced challenges from Chinese rivals and braced for additional tariffs on imported components.
CLSA upgrades Tata Motors to high-conviction outperform, sets INR 930 target price
Global brokerage firm CLSA has upgraded Tata Motors stock to a 'High-Conviction Outperform' from its previous rating of 'Outperform,' with a target price of INR 930, suggesting that the adverse near-term outlook for the company provides an opportunity to enter the stock at a favorable valuation.
Electric penetration in India’s public transportation sector to reach up to 40% by FY30: ICRA
Electric-powered public transportation could act as a major contributor in the Government of India’s vision of transitioning from conventional fuels such as diesel and petrol to sustainable alternatives for powering economic growth. According to credit rating agency ICRA estimates, electric penetration in the public transport segment will reach 30-40% by FY30 in India.
Kalyani siblings meet in Pune but fail to resolve dispute

The Kalyani siblings, Baba Kalyani and his sister, Sugandha Hiremath, met in Pune on Thursday to resolve their ongoing dispute as per a suggestion from Pune civil court judge K M Jaisingani. However, the meeting remained inconclusive.
PV makers to push for EV subsidies in govt meeting today

New Delhi: The Ministry of Heavy Industries is meeting passenger vehicle manufacturers onFriday to deliberate on a crucial industry demand — whether to extend subsidies to electric four-wheelers under the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-Drive) scheme, which has replaced FAME-II. The discussion is significant as incentives under FAME I and II were only avail-able — apart from two- and three-wheelers — for electric cars registered for commercial use, with no subsidies provided for personal-use electric vehicles (EVs). 
Rs 69K cr capital expenditure to fuel Suzuki's India growth engine
 
Buy dips in auto stocks amid Tesla's India debut, Trump tariffs: Analysts
 
📝  India may offer on-tap facility for EV manufacturing, letting cos test waters first
📝  Ahead of Tesla's entry, Tata Motors announces special benefits for existing and new EV buyers
📝  Elon Musk may not bring Chinese Teslas to India, likely to seek EV policy benefits
📝  ‘Skoda Volkswagen needs to fall in line on tax demand’
📝  Bumpy road ahead for MSMEs as they try to sell to the EV industry
📝  Back from the dead: Tesla's most affordable EV Model 2 could launch soon. What it offers
📝  Tesla reportedly planning India launch with ₹21 lakh EV, Donald Trump says it is impossible to sell cars
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🚗 ICE Car/SUV

Cars24 to drive into personal loan space, expand car loan access
Used cars marketplace Cars24, which has been offering financing options to customers purchasing cars from its platform, is evolving into a comprehensive lending platform, a top executive of the company told Mint.
Aim to regain 50 pc market share in India by FY30: Suzuki Motor
Maruti Suzuki aims to reclaim 50% share in the Indian PV market by 2030
MG Hector Leads with Exceptional Resale Value and Efficiency - Droom Study
 
📝  Skoda Auto India names Ranveer Singh as brand superstar to drive expansion
📝  Tata Motors dealerships confirm Safari and Harrier Stealth edition launch. Here's what they'll cost
📝  Mahindra Scorpio N Pickup truck interiors spotted ahead of launch
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Electric Car/SUV

Kia EV6 recalled — Voluntary says the carmaker
Kia has issued a recall for its flagship electric car in India, the EV6. According to Kia, this is a voluntary recall and over 1300 EV6 vehicles are affected. The carmaker has also informed the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) about this initiative and has started reaching out to customers regarding the recall.
📝  Tata Motors crosses 2 lakh EV sales
📝  Tata Nexon EV LR 40.5 kWh discontinued: Remaining battery options explained
📝  BYD Sealion 7 receives 1000 bookings: Price, bookings, range, features and more
📝  Suzuki rejigs India EV plans
📝  MG Windsor EV seeing skyrocketing demand, production hike on card
📝  MG Cyberster creates Land Speed record, is Asia’s fastest accelerating car
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🚗 Luxury

📝  Volvo XC90 facelift to launch in India on March 4: Key highlights you should know
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⛟ Commercial Vehicles

ETCVS: Connectivity paves way for sustainability and economic growth: Ashok Leyland's CTO
Opening his keynote with the statement, “Connectivity is not something that you put on a vehicle, but it is a part of the vehicle that you take with you further,” Dr. Saravanan highlights that the commercial vehicle (CV) segment is driven by customer value and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). He notes that while network and technology may vary, their true impact lies in how they are utilised to enhance key aspects of CV operations, including vehicle utilisation, fleet management, service optimisation, and carbon neutrality.
📝  JBM Auto shares plummet 4% amid high trading volumes
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🎤 Interviews & Features

Tata Sierra spotted testing for first time
The “Sierra” is a very popular nameplate from the 1990s in the Indian car market which recently got reincarnated. After making its debut in the pre-production form at the 20025 Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, the new-gen Tata Sierra has been spotted testing on the roads. A test mule of the new Sierra was caught on camera, in a fully camouflaged avatar.
Top unwanted features in cars pt. 2
At a time when cars are essentially turning into computers on wheels, true motoring enthusiasts miss the old school charm of pure mechanical machines. While extra features may add more value to a car purchasing decision, the truth is, most of these amenities don’t usually come into use in our regular driving routine. 
Incumbent auto companies poised to lead India's EV transition: Raunak Onkar
"I think as an investor in India you have slightly better advantage for looking at incumbents and the reason is simple because we do not have the entire value chain of products that go into an EV that are coming from India," says Raunak Onkar, PPFAS MF.
Vision 2047 Master Plan: MoRTH has adopted a big data driven approach to infra planning, says Nitin Gadkari
“Under the Vision 2047 Master Plan, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has adopted a big data driven approach to identify the highway network that the country’s growing economy will require as we move closer to 2047.
📝  India’s first festival for cars: Five things to know about Generation Speed 2025
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🏍 EV/ICE Two Wheelers

Planning to get the 2025 TVS Ronin? You might want to consider checking out these alternatives
TVS has introduced the 2025 Ronin in the Indian markets at a starting price of ₹1.35 lakh (ex-showroom). The newly updated model features two new colors namely Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember. Pricing for the mid-spec variant has also been updated with this update, it will now be retailing at ₹1.59 lakh (ex-showroom) and will include dual-channel ABS as standard.
Google Trends: Top 5 motorcycles in trend this month
There has been a lot happening in the motorcycle industry in India recently. In November 2024, the EICMA took place in Milan, Italy where two-wheeler manufacturers from all across the world showcased some of the most crucial models for the future. This was followed by the India Bike Week in Goa the following month and the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in January 2025.
Honda Hornet 2.0 vs TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: Price, Specs, Features
It’s been a busy month for Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India as the company has launched a string of updated models. The latest to join the 2025 lineup is the Hornet 2.0, which now meets the upcoming emission norms with new features. The Hornet squares off against TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. We find out which one should you buy.
John Abraham has a serious message for the motorcycling community — Educate yourself on electronic aids
In the world of celebrities and influencers, the mix with automobiles doesn’t really go well. However, when you do meet a celebrity who is also a passionate automotive enthusiast, a lot of good things can happen. In this instance, we spoke to John Abraham, a renowned film star and automotive buff, especially when it comes to motorcycles, about his view on road safety.
Buying a used superbike? Here’s what you need to look out for
Buying a used superbike can be tricky, however, with the right knowledge, one can master the art in no time. Many stay away from the used space primarily because they don’t want to end up with a lemon — a troublesome bike that will become a money pit. However, there are a few ways that can bring you on top of the game when looking for a superbike and here they are.
📝  Aprilia Tuono 457 vs RS 457: Differences and similarities explained
📝  BMW F 450 GS to be unveiled in late-2025, will be made locally: What you should know
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⚙ Components

In a bid to counter Chinese import dominance, ELGi to launch competitive products
Chennai: ELGi Equipments Ltd, a leading air compressor manufacturer, is set to roll out cost-effective, high-performance products next financial year to counter the rising dominance of Chinese imports in the low-value segment. The company is facing challenges from imported low-kilowatt screw compressors. Many customers who previously used piston compressors find standard screw compressors from ELGi and other global brands in India too expensive. However, more customers are now switching to screw compressors, as Chinese companies flood the market with low-cost options, increasing demand.. If pricing were based on fair costs, competing with Chinese products wouldn’t be a concern. However, a lack of transparency in their pricing adds to the challenge, the company had earlier stated.
India auto component industry revenues to expand 8-10% in 2025-26: ICRA
Auto parts industry may invest ₹25,000-30,000 cr in FY26: ICRA
The Hindu Business Line
📝  Major auto component firms likely to invest up to Rs 30K cr next fiscal: ICRA
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🌇 Allied Industries

Sodium ion batteries should get VGF, PLI support: ASPIRE report
New Delhi: Establishing a manufacturing ecosystem for sodium ion batteries (SIBs), which can be effectively used for grid storage projects, is critical and should get government support through viability gap funding and under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, a government supported report said.
Pune-based ARAPL RaaS begins delivery of autonomous electric vehicles to US clients
Mumbai: Pune-based automation solutions provider ARAPL said its subsidiary ARAPL RaaS has commenced deliveries of autonomous electric vehicles (AEVs) to warehousing clients in the US. The move positions the company to capitalise on the rapidly growing USD 300-billion warehousing automation market of the United States, said Affordable Robotic and Automation Ltd (ARAPL).
Apollo Tyres to rejig product portfolio for margins
Apollo Tyres, one of India’s largest tyre manufacturers, will refocus its product strategy to enhance profitability amid slower growth, rising input costs, and increasing competition.
📝  Yuma Energy acquires Chennai-based Grinntech to boost battery solutions
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🌢 Fuels, Lubricants

Exxon plans large-scale gas project in oil-dominated Guyana
U.S. oil major Exxon Mobil plans to boost natural gas output and supply in Guyana through a large-scale project announced on Wednesday, following the government's call for more gas to fuel onshore power and petrochemical projects.
CNG vehicle sales to hit 1.1 million in FY25 amid rising adoption and infrastructure expansion: Crisil Report

New Delhi: The domestic sales of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles in India are expected to reach 1.1 million units by the end of this fiscal year, driven by the government's push for cleaner fuels and the expansion of CNG infrastructure, according to a Crisil report.
Can Tesla's entry supercharge India's ailing EV charging infrastructure?
 
📝  Crude oil prices rise on supply concerns
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💸 Finance & Insurance

📝  PNB cuts loan rates: Check new interest rate for home, car, & personal loan
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📖 Magazines

Kia PV5 EV revealed as brand’s first van
The Kia PV5 has been unveiled ahead of its debut, which was scheduled for February 27 at the carmaker’s 2025 EV Day event. Not only is the PV5 Kia’s first van but also the introductory model for its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV), a modular skateboard designed to spawn all-electric multi-purpose utility vehicles targeted towards private and commercial sectors.
BMW F 450 GS India launch by end of 2025
The BMW F 450 GS concept was showcased at the 2024 edition of EICMA, but at the time, the brand did not give us an official timeline for its launch. Now, BMW has announced that the production-spec F 450 GS should be here by the end of this year.
Tata Curvv EV, Nexon EV get up to Rs 1 lakh benefits
Tata Motors has introduced benefits of up to Rs 1 lakh for new and existing customers to celebrate 2 lakh electric vehicles on Indian roads. Tata EVs like the Curvv, Nexon, Punch and Tiago are included in this scheme, which is valid for 45 days from February 19. Let's discover these benefits in detail without further ado.
Hyundai Creta N Line long term review, 6,000km report
MH 03 EL 6295 is wearing a few scars these days. Scars entirely of my making. Here’s the back story. To make space for a test Mercedes-AMG G 63 (yup, first-world problems!), I had to park the Creta N Line in an adjacent parking slot that’s alongside a pillar. Days later, when I got back to the Creta, I forgot how close it was to the pillar and reversed out as always with my eye on the rear view camera feed. Crrrunch. The left-wing mirror took the hit. The glass broke, but thankfully, the electronics (mirror adjust, camera and blind view indicator) survived. Phew! Because replacing the whole wing mirror would have cost a crazy Rs 32,000! All the ADAS features and electronics have made the humble wing mirror expensive. The Rs 1,000 replacement glass that I needed seems like a bargain in comparison. The mirror casing isn’t perfectly aligned, and resultantly, there’s a small blind spot in the blind view monitor. It’s not ideal, but I view it as a small reminder of the perils of being over-reliant on cameras. Lesson learnt.
Kia EV6 recalled in India again
Kia EV6 SUVs manufactured between March 3, 2022, and April 14, 2023, have been voluntarily recalled by the brand. A total of 1,380 units are affected. The software update in the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) aims to improve the charging and performance of the 12V auxiliary battery. This battery powers the Kia EV's lights, wipers and music system.
Moto Morini Seiemmezzo 650 Retro Street and 650 Scrambler receive price cut of up to Rs 2 lakh
 
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📰 International

Exxon, SLB flag interest in lithium projects in Chile
U.S. oil major Exxon Mobil is planning a meeting with Chilean officials to discuss lithium investment opportunities, according to a registry of lobbyist meetings and a person familiar with the matter, as fossil fuel companies increasingly look to invest in production of the metal needed for electric vehicle batteries.
Survey exposes Tesla drivers are the worst in America
There’s an old saying, “Don’t believe everything you read on the internet,” and it turns out it holds some truth—especially when it comes to Tesla owners, who have earned a reputation for being reckless on the road. A recent survey from LendingTree backs this up, revealing that EV owners are responsible for the highest number of incidents, including accidents, speeding tickets and drunk driving fines. Tesla drivers top the list, followed by Ram and Subaru owners in second and third place. While social media often highlights Tesla-related accidents, this study clarifies it all. 
US support for Taiwan remains 'very strong,' Taiwanese official says
Taipei: Support from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration for Taiwan remains "very strong" and Taiwan is looking at more purchases from the country, including LNG, to help balance trade, a senior Taiwan security official said on Thursday.
Mercedes-Benz earnings are a bad sign for EV sales. What it means for Ford, Tesla.
Mercedes-Benz stock fell in overseas trading after the German auto maker reported better-than-expected earnings but gave an outlook that doesn’t inspire the passion drivers might feel for a 300 SLR sports car. Thursday, the company announced fourth-quarter earnings per share of $2.68 from sales of about $40 billion. Wall Street was looking for about $2.60 and just under $40 billion respectively. Mercedes shares were down 1.6% in overseas trading at €60.22 ($62.93). 
Mercedes-Benz moves to cut costs, revive sales after earnings slump
Mercedes-Benz on Thursday launched a fresh cost-cutting plan to revive sales and margins and battle stiff competition as the German carmaker forecast a big drop in earnings in 2025.
In a major shift, Japex to prioritise oil and gas investment through 2030
Japan Petroleum Exploration (Japex) is prioritising investment in oil and gas exploration and production (E&P) through 2030 - revising an earlier plan to aggressively expand its renewables businesses, its president said.
GM CFO says if US tariffs are permanent, company must consider plant locations
General Motors CFO Paul Jacobson said on Wednesday at a Barclays conference that if U.S. tariffs became permanent, the company would have to consider moving plants, but also said it had not made those decisions yet.
Renault beats profit forecast for 2024
French automaker Renault reported a record operating profit for 2024 on Thursday, beating expectations, as lower costs and a string of new launches boosted margins.
Mercedes-Benz profits plunge as German carmakers reel

Frankfurt: Mercedes-Benz said Thursday it planned hefty cost cuts after its 2024 profits plunged by almost a third amid a slump in China and weak electric car sales, as Germany's auto sector reels.
MT Group Appoints WESNAP INDIA as Exclusive Distributor for Axxis Helmets in India
 
Mercedes-Benz cuts costs, renews focus on combustion engine models
Mercedes-Benz on Thursday announced further cost-cutting and more petrol and diesel cars than EVs in its new product range, in a bid to revive margins as the company braces for a sharp drop in earnings in 2025.
📝  Kia unveils PV5 passenger and cargo models ahead of 2025 EV Day
📝  Nikola, EV startup that once thrilled investors, files for bankruptcy
📝  Too bright to be on road: Porsche 911 recalled over glitchy HD-Matrix LED lighting system. Is yours too among them?
Read More >>


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