Top Indian Automobile Industry News & Updates - 18 Jan 2025,Saturday

🏢 Industry

First after IPO: Hyundai drives in eCreta SUV, bets on EV infrastructure
This includes battery packs, cell manufacturing in partnership with Exide Energy Solutions (EESL), drivetrains, and other key components, alongside expanding the charging infrastructure. Creta EV comes with localised battery packs.
2025 Dakar Rally stage 11 — Hustle, tussle, and Tosha to the win!
Stage 11 of the 2025 Dakar Rally was off to a late start owing to dense mist, subsequently leading the organisers to shorten the stage to 152km instead of the original 308km. The delayed start and the previous stage’s strategy by riders meant Honda’s Tosha Schariena took the win for the day, while Ekstrom was the stage winner in the car category. Here are the highlights.
PM Modi invites investments in mobility sector, vows govt support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday invited investments from all sectors that see their "future in mobility", promising government support "at every level" in the world's third largest car market.
Number of EVs in India could increase eight-fold by end of 2030: Modi
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the number of electric vehicles (EVs) in India could increase eight-fold by the end of this decade, showcasing the immense potential in this segment. He, therefore, urged the industry to invest more in this sector.
JSW Group plans to launch slew of vehicles under independent brand with an investment of $1 billion: Parth Jindal
New Delhi: JSW Group that has a stake in MG Motor India, on Friday said it will launch its own independent range of cars, trucks and buses under the JSW brand, and will also invest $1 billion for the same. Speaking to reporters here at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, Parth Jindal, Director, JSW MG Motor India also said that the company was looking at a new manufacturing facility also in Odisha — could be for EVs, batteries or other vehciles, though no timeline has been fixed.
JSW MG sees 75% sales coming from new energy vehicles over the long term
JSW MG Motor India, a leading player in the country's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, anticipates that 65-75% of its future sales will come from new energy vehicles, including EVs and hybrids. The company is doubling down on its ambition to establish itself as a “new energy vehicle first” automaker, even as it continues to cater to the internal combustion engine (ICE) segment to address broader market demands.
India's share in global mobility supply chains increasing: Piyush Goyal
India's share in the global mobility supply chains is increasing due to the sector's cost-competitiveness and focus on product quality, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday. Speaking at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 here, he said by the next year this expo will become the biggest auto show in the world and will emerge as the one-stop destination for the automobile sector for the world.
Interest for electric vehicles from Tier-II,- III cities surprising: M&M

“This is the reason why when we open bookings in February, we will open them for most of the towns in India. This was not the strategy earlier,” he noted. The company was earlier planning to open bookings in Tier-II and -III cities after a gap of a few months, around the middle of this year. M&M had launched the BE 6e at a starting price of Rs 18.9 lakh (ex-showroom), as well as the XEV 9e, at a starting price of Rs 21.9 lakh (ex-showroom) in November last year. Bookings for these two cars will start in February.
Maruti plans fast charging boost, battery rentals at India auto show
 
JSW MG Motor asks government to reduce GST on plug-in hybrid cars
 
New EV launches to boost consumer confidence, says TaMo's Chandra
 
Future of mobility belongs to India, PM Narendra Modi tells auto majors
 
📝  JSW plans tie-ups for EVs and batteries: Parth Jindal
📝  'Fulfilled the middle-class dream': Modi's heartfelt tribute to Ratan Tata and Osamu Suzuki at Bharat Auto Expo
📝  Rising middle class, rapid urbanisation, and affordable vehicles going to push auto sector in India: PM Modi
📝  People Tech Enterprises to invest Rs 1,800 cr for EV park in Andhra Pradesh
📝  Maruti Suzuki aims to become leading producer of EVs in one year, says MD & CEO Hisashi Takeuchi
📝  Hindalco to replace diesel vehicles with EVs across all plants in India
📝  JSW e-charges with Rs 17k cr for clean mobility
📝  Electric joyride faces charging infra bump
📝  Sebi opposes KOEL’s appeal on family settlement disclosure advisory
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🚗 ICE Car/SUV

📝  Will small cars survive the SUV boom? Maruti Suzuki thinks so
📝  Maruti Suzuki has chosen India as global manufacturing base: T Suzuki
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Electric Car/SUV

JSW MG Motor forays into 'accessible luxury' electric car segment
JSW MG Motor India on Friday announced their foray into the 'accessible luxury' electric car segment with the unveiling of two new models - MG Cyberster, India's first all-electric Roadster and the MG M9, the first electric three-row limousine, slated to be launched this year. Accessible luxury is usually referred to high-quality products that are priced lower than traditional luxury goods.
EV industry needs better cost structure' : Shailesh Chandra, Head Of EV, Tata Motors

The PM stressed on making India the EV hub for the world. Are you looking at this opportunity?
Interest from tier-2, tier-3 cities in our EVs has 'surprised' us: Mahindra
 
📝  Late but will lead EV market in future: Hyundai top boss' confidence-laced confession
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🚗 Luxury

Jaguar Land Rover sees 23% YTD growth, eyes best-ever sales in FY25
Mumbai: Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) registered sales of 4,390 units with a 23 per cent growth in YTD FY25.  The company said 1,777 units were sold in Q3 FY25, a decline of 4 per cent year-on-year due to a planned run-out of older models across certain nameplates. 
Mercedes-Benz launches Maybach SUV 680 'Night Series' priced at Rs 2.63 cr
Mercedes-Benz unveils EQS Maybach SUV 680 at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025: Price, features, range and more
C it to believe it: Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Indian market is moving towards a more SUV-centric approach to motoring. Everywhere you see, from new launches to segment-leading cars, it’s likely to be an SUV at the top of the food chain. The benefits are many like added ground clearance and more cabin space, which means other segments are shrinking alarmingly. Sedans, in particular, have been affected badly, but proving to be a ray of hope is the C-Class. It’s a sophisticated premium sedan that will compel you to give up on buying an SUV. It promises to offer more than its rivals (regardless of their body style) in terms of classy appeal and driving fun, the latter especially in the C 300 guise. We take the Mercedes-Benz sedan for a spin to understand if this can indeed fit in the definition of a good sedan.
📝  BMW launches first 'Made in India' electric SUV X1 at Rs 49 lakh, priced same as petrol, diesel variants
📝  Lotus Emeya, Emira launched in India with prices starting from Rs 2.34 crores: Details
📝  Bharat Mobility Global expo: Mercedes Benz unveils Concept CLA Class, Maybach EQS 680 Night Series
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⛟ Commercial Vehicles

Eicher Trucks and Buses enters SCV market with the e-truck Eicher Pro X Range
Chennai: Eicher Trucks and Buses, a division of VE Commercial Vehicles, has officially entered the electric small commercial vehicle (SCV) market with the launch of its pick-up vehicle, the Eicher Pro X Range, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The 2-3.5 GVW (gross vehicle weight) pick-up segment, which is currently dominated by Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, and Tata Motors, is now set to witness increased competition with Eicher’s new electric offerings. The electric trucks will be available in two categories: sub-110 kg load and above 110 kg load, with the 1.7-tonne version targeting the higher end of the market. Eicher’s decision to launch an electric vehicle rather than a diesel model is driven by the lower cost of ownership, as electric vehicles offer operating costs significantly lower than their diesel counterparts, Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd (VECV) told businessline.
In 5 years, we want to cross 50,000 export mark: Ashok Leyland MD & CEO
Hinduja Group flagship company Ashok Leyland, the second-largest commercial vehicle (CV) maker in India and the fourth-largest in the world, on Friday marked its entry into the entry-level light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment through Saathi. The company's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Shenu Agarwal talks to Shine Jacob about the new product, alternative fuel plans, and export road map.

Edited excerpts:
Ashok Leyland enters the mini-truck market with Saathi, targets 20% market share
Ashok Leyland, a leading player in the truck and bus industry, has made its debut in the mini-truck segment with the launch of Saathi, a premium entry-level light commercial vehicle priced at ₹6.5 lakh. The Hinduja Group flagship aims to disrupt the market and secure 20 per cent of the segment’s market share within the next five years. Bookings for Saathi are now open, with deliveries expected to begin in 3–4 weeks.
📝  Truck load capacity rises despite fall in volumes
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🎤 Interviews & Features

Entry from Maruti Suzuki will be a strong push for EV market in India, says CEO Hisashi Takeuchi
Maruti Suzuki's Managing Director & CEO, Hisashi Takeuchi, shares exclusive insights on the company's vision for the electric vehicle ecosystem and their first electric compact SUV, the e Vitara, unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. In an interview with ETAuto, Takeuchi discusses the future of EVs, the evolution of the Indian automotive market, and Maruti Suzuki's strategic plans to lead the transition to sustainable mobility.
Auto Expo 2025 | Kia India's Hardeep S Brar says 2 EVs coming; expects 0-5% growth in FY26
What is your take on Kia's success in the Indian market in a short time?
In 5 years, we want to cross 50,000 export mark: Ashok Leyland MD & CEO

Hinduja Group flagship company Ashok Leyland, the second-largest commercial vehicle (CV) maker in India and the fourth-largest in the world, on Friday marked its entry into the entry-level light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment through Saathi. The company's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Shenu Agarwal talks to Shine Jacob about the new product, alternative fuel plans, and export road map.

Edited excerpts:
Worth the wait?
Do you remember the Hyundai Kona? It was a mid-sized SUV launched in the nascent EV space six years ago. While the market was yet to embrace the electric revolution, the Kona drew appreciation from buyers and critics alike. It was followed by the introduction of the IONIQ 5, which didn’t just establish Hyundai’s presence in the premium segment but also showcased the true engineering capabilities of the carmaker. Taking it forward is going to be the all-new Hyundai Creta Electric, a highly awaited BEV SUV that brings to the table the unmatched popularity of Hyundai’s best-selling SUV in a promising electric setup to answer the market’s ever-increasing demand. Is it any good?
📝  Five boosts India’s EV industry needs from Sitharaman’s budget to shift into top gear: Kamlesh Kaushik, Co-Founder & CEO, Mufin Green Infra Ltd
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🏍 EV/ICE Two Wheelers

2025 Honda Dio vs TVS Jupiter 110 comparison — Style or practicality?
Honda has been on a spree with multiple launches ahead of the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo — from commuter motorcycles to scooters and even larger displacement motorcycles like the CBR650R and the CB650R. The latest was the launch of the updated Honda Dio, aimed at youngsters or ones looking for a bit of style. There is one problem — the TVS Jupiter 110, which offers style and practicality at the same time. So which one should you choose?
BSA Gold Star 650 Review: Pros & Cons
Ever since it first broke cover more than three years ago in the United Kingdom, I had been itching to get my hands on the BSA Gold Star 650, simply because the 500cc+ motorcycle segment in India is dominated by premium brands like Ducati, Triumph, Kawasaki, and to some extent even Honda and Suzuki.
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⚙ Components

Piyush Goyal asks auto component industry to reduce import dependency
“Why should we be dependent on foreign countries, especially some countries with non-market economies or non-transparent economic practices? Why should we be dependent on them for the equipment and machinery that our industry needs?” Goyal said at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 Components Show.
📝  Make, not import machines: Goyal tells component cos
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🌇 Allied Industries

Are we entering an era of boring colours but exciting brand marques?
There was a time, 20 years ago, when you had a tough time getting a white or cream coloured refrigerator. The growing middle class wanted to display their refrigerator, mostly 165-litre capacity, in their living room. The more conspicuous the colour, the better.
Qualcomm, MapmyIndia partner to develop indigenous auto tech solutions
Qualcomm Technologies and MapmyIndia announced a strategic collaboration today to develop indigenous automotive connectivity solutions, supporting India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. The partnership aims to create affordable telematics solutions for both four-wheeler and two-wheeler segments in the domestic and global markets.
📝  NIT Rourkela develops new cathode technology to drive India's EV, renewable energy growth
📝  Cummins has ‘intent’ to make battery packs in India
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🌢 Fuels, Lubricants

Ethanol blending with petrol at record 18.2% in December 2024
New Delhi: The year 2024 ended on a positive note for the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoPNG) with ethanol blending with petrol achieving a rate of 18.2 per cent in December, which is the highest on record.
📝  India’s oil demand to reach 252.9 million tonnes in FY26, up 4.65%: PPAC
📝  Hyundai to set up 600 public fast charging stations to bolster EV adoption
📝  Lubi Industries secures contract to supply 1,400 fast EV charger
📝  Reliance and Nayara gain diesel mkt share as state-run oil cos stagnate
📝  Brent up 2.6% as oil prices rise for fourth week amid US sanctions
Read More >>

📖 Magazines

Yamaha FZ-S Hybrid revealed at Auto Expo 2025
Yamaha has revealed the FZ-S Fi Hybrid model at Auto Expo 2025. This bike gets an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), providing a slight electric boost, silent start, start/stop tech, and a Bluetooth-compatible TFT display. The FZ-S Hybrid is the first bike in India to use this system.
Hyundai Staria MPV showcased at Auto Expo 2025
The Staria stretches the tape at over 5.2 metres a is shaped like a typical people mover, although a low beltline with a large glasshouse gives it a distinctive look. The face has a swooping design, with a black contrasting finish on the bumper, which houses a large mesh grille and rectangular pixel headlamps. In typical MPV fashion, the profile is slab-sided, while at the rear, it gets large vertical tail-lamps, again with pixel detailing like the front.
New Skoda Superb, Octavia RS showcased at Auto Expo 2025
The new Skoda Superb and the 2025 Octavia RS have been showcased for the first time in India at the Auto Expo 2025. Both models are expected to launch in India later this year. Apart from these two sedans, Skoda has displayed the recently launched Kylaq compact SUV, the Elroq EV and the new Kodiaq at the event.
New Skoda Kodiaq, Elroq EV, Vision 7S showcased at Auto Expo 2025
The new Skoda Kodiaq has made its India debut at the Auto Expo 2025, ahead of its scheduled market launch later this year. Skoda India has also displayed the Elroq mid-size electric SUV and the Vision 7S SUV concept at the event.
Mercedes CLA concept showcased at Auto Expo 2025
The Mercedes-Benz CLA concept made its first appearance in India at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in Delhi on Friday (January 17). It is also the first car to be developed on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), which is compatible with EV and ICE powertrains. Details about the ICE derivative of the Mercedes CLA are limited, so our focus will remain on the upcoming CLA EV. 
Hyundai Creta Electric launched at Rs 17.99 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
The Creta Electric, Hyundai's first mass-market EV for India, has been launched today (January 17), with introductory prices starting from Rs 17.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Interested buyers can witness the electric SUV at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi.
Updated Suzuki Access 125 launched at Rs 81,700: Auto Expo 2025
The Access 125 continues to be powered by the same 125cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, which is now OBD2B-compliant. It is rated to produce 8.4hp and 10.2Nm. Power has actually gone down by 0.3hp, but torque has risen by 0.2Nm. The rest of the scooter appears mechanically identical to the previous model. 
Tata Sierra near production concept debuts: Auto Expo 2025
Tata Motors has showcased the internal combustion engine version of the Sierra concept SUV for the first time at the Auto Expo 2025. It is in near-production form and the reborn Tata Sierra will go on sale in India later this year. Like a large section of Tata Motors’ line-up, the SUV will be available with petrol, diesel and all-electric powertrains.
Tata Avinya X concept debuts at Auto Expo 2025
Tata Motors has showcased the Avinya X concept, which will likely be the first model from a new family of premium EVs, at the ongoing Auto Expo 2025. This electric concept has the form factor of a large coupe-SUV and looks completely different from the wagon-like concept shown in 2022. The first model from Tata’s Avinya range is expected to hit showrooms in 2026.
Suzuki Access electric revealed at Auto Expo 2025
Suzuki has revealed the e-Access electric scooter at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, which is the electric version of the popular Access 125 petrol scooter.
MG Gloster facelift debuts at Auto Expo 2025 as Majestor
MG Motors has debuted the Gloster facelift on the first day of Auto Expo 2025. The refreshed full-size, three-row, ladder frame SUV will be sold as the Majestor, and it gets a lot less chrome on the exterior. The Gloster will continue being sold alongside.
MG M9 showcased at Auto Expo 2025; pre-bookings open
MG M9: what is it?
Maruti e Vitara revealed with over 500km range: Auto Expo 2025
Maruti Suzuki has finally taken the wraps off its first EV, the e Vitara, in India. The carmaker will launch the electric SUV in March, and it will rival the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV and the Mahindra BE 6. The e Vitara stays true to the eVX concept that previewed it back in 2023, and will go on sale with two battery pack options. It's twin from Toyota, the Urban Cruiser EV, which has also been showcased at the Auto Expo, arrives later in the year.
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel launched at Rs 2.17 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
Like the Honda CB300F Flex Fuel, which launched last year, the Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel is also capable of running on a blend of petrol and ethanol. The motorcycle can run on a concentration of ethanol of up to 85 percent, with the rest being petrol.
Kia EV6 facelift debuts at Auto Expo 2025
Kia has showcased the EV6 facelift at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo in Delhi. Like the pre-facelift EV6, two GT-Line variants will be available: rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Apart from revised looks and new features, the electric vehicle also packs updated mechanicals. Kia India has started accepting bookings today, with a launch scheduled for March.
MG Cyberster bookings open in March: Auto Expo 2025
JSW-MG Motor India has announced the commencement of pre-bookings of the Cyberster at the ongoing Auto Expo 2025. The brand also said official bookings will begin in March and confirmed that deliveries for the sporty EV will start in April. The Cyberster is MG’s first electric sports car and will be sold exclusively via the MG Select premium showrooms, which will also retail the Mifa 9 MPV, marketed as the M9 in India. 
Auto Expo 2025 report: Day 1 round-up
India’s premier motor show, the Auto Expo 2025, is underway, and some big names have shown important models specifically for our market. Here’s a lowdown of all the key launches, unveils and concepts from the first day of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025.
Hero Xtreme 250R launched at Rs 1.80 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
Hero has launched the Xtreme 250R at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at Rs 1.80 lakh. The Xtreme 250R is the most powerful Hero model currently on sale.  
Hero Xpulse 210 launched at Rs 1.76 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
Hero has finally launched the Xpulse 210 at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, and the compact ADV is priced at Rs 1.76 lakh.
Hero Xoom 125 launched at Rs 86,900: Auto Expo 2025
Hero has finally launched the Xoom 125, with prices starting at Rs 86,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Xoom 125 is available in two variants – VX and ZX – just like its practical sibling, the Destini 125, which was launched a few days ago.
Tata Harrier EV debuts in production spec: Auto Expo 2025
Having first showcased the Harrier EV in concept guise at the Auto Expo 2023, Tata Motors has now unveiled the production version of the SUV at Auto Expo 2025. The Harrier EV is based on a heavily modified version of its ICE platform. Interestingly, Tata Motors rolled out the Harrier EV on stage without a driver, showcasing what it is calling the 'summon' feature. 
TVS Jupiter CNG scooter revealed at Auto Expo 2025
Confirming our previous scoop, TVS has now revealed the Jupiter CNG scooter at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Just like the Bajaj Freedom, the Jupiter CNG is powered by both CNG and petrol. 
BMW iX1 LWB launched at Rs 49 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
BMW India has launched the all-electric iX1 LWB at the ongoing Auto Expo; the X1 Long Wheelbase All Electric eDrive20L M Sport is priced at Rs 49 lakh, ex-showroom, India, for an introductory period. The long-wheelbase X1, as its name suggests, has a 112mm longer wheelbase than the standard model (2,692mm). While China gets the long-wheelbase X1 and the iX1, India is technically the first market to get the long-wheelbase iX1. This launch also marks the introduction of BMW India’s first locally made EV and confirms our report that BMW was considering introducing LWB SUVs in the country.
Bajaj exploring partnership with EV maker Micro Mobility Systems
Bajaj Auto, India's largest two-wheeler exporter, is in talks with Swiss startup Micro Mobility Systems about a strategic partnership to produce and export electric quadricycles, including the acquisition of a significant minority stake by the Pune-based firm in Micro Mobility Systems. Sources say the Micro Mobility partnership talks are similar to Bajaj Auto's alliances with KTM and Triumph, where Bajaj Auto's manufacturing base serves as an export hub for their respective global markets.
Hero Xoom 160 launched at Rs 1.49 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
Alongside its petrol motorcycles, Hero has launched the Xoom 160 maxi-scooter at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The Xoom 160 is available in just one variant and is priced almost on par with its chief rival, the Yamaha Aerox 155.
Honda Activa electric launched at Rs 1.17 lakh: Auto Expo 2025
After revealing it late last year, Honda has finally announced the prices for the Activa e: at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The electric Activa’s base variant is priced at Rs 1.17 lakh, while the higher RoadSync Duo variant will cost you Rs 1.52 lakh. 
TVS Apache RTX 300 revealed at Auto Expo 2025
After a few recent spy sightings, the Apache RTX 300 adventure bike has been shown at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Expo. This is TVS' first adventure bike and is also the first model to be powered by the recently showcased 300cc RTX-D4 mill.
Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Night Series launched at Rs 2.63 crore
Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Night Series
Honda QC1 launched at Rs 90,000: Auto Expo 2025
 
New Toyota Maharashtra, Karnataka plants underline Kirloskar’s commitment to JV
“We are all in with Toyota. It is a 100-year plan,” said Manasi Kirloskar Tata, the vice chairman of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) and daughter of Late Vikram Kirloskar, the promoter of Kirloskar Group. TKM is a joint venture between the over 130-year-old Kirloskar Group and the world’s largest carmaker, Toyota. The Japanese JV partner has unveiled its most ambitious investment plan, which involves investing over USD 3 billion (approximately Rs 26,000 crore) in the country, and the Kirloskar family is integral to it. 
Toyota Urban Cruiser EV makes India debut: Auto Expo 2025
Toyota showcased the new Urban Cruiser EV at the Auto Expo 2025. This is Toyota’s version of the Maruti e Vitara, and while the brand is still calling it a concept, it has already been unveiled in production-spec form overseas. Following the e Vitara’s launch this March, Toyota will launch the Urban Cruiser EV in India in the second half of 2025.
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