🏢 Industry
MP ideal location for Toyota to setup facility, invest in enhancing youth training: CM Mohan Yadav
Yadav - who is on a four-day visit to Japan - held an interactive session with the delegation from Toyota Motor Corporation (counted among the world's biggest automakers), and discussed potential trade ties with Toshiyuki Nakahara, Department General Manager, Administration and Support Department, India and Middle East Division, and Masahiro Nogi, Project General Manager, Administration and Support Department, India and Middle East Division, Toyota Motor Corporation.
Budget 2025: Auto players urge subsidy continuity, tax reduction, enhanced localisation and upskilling of human resources
New Delhi: The red bahikhata in Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's hands, to be presented on February 1, 2025, holds the hope of bringing new opportunities to the country with digitalisation, localisation and other advancements.
Union Budget 2025: Auto Inc’s top 3 key wishes for growth and reform
New Delhi: India is the world’s third-largest automobile market, and the sector has witnessed significant positive changes over the years. However, there are still certain challenges that require the attention of policymakers, and it is crucial that focused efforts are made to address these issues.
Despite industry demand, EV charging may not get infra status in budget
New Delhi: Despite demands from the electric vehicle (EV) industry, the government may not grant 'infrastructure industry' status to the charging infrastructure sector in the upcoming budget on 1 February, two people aware of the development said.
Hyundai to explore alternate fuel technologies for India, says MD Unsoo Kim
New Delhi: As part of broadening its product portfolio towards clean fuel technologies, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is considering options to go beyond ICE (petrol and diesel) and electric powertrains.
Centre asks states to submit demand for EV chargers
New Delhi : The Ministry of HeavyIndustries (MHI) has reached out to state governments, requesting them to submit their demands for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure under the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme. "Requests are being sent to state governments and other stakeholders to submit their demand.
Automobile sector: A key catalyst for India’s growth, needs priority in the Union Budget 2025
However, with almost half the industrial GDP of India flowing in from the automobile sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman should focus on the sector’s capability to drive India’s growth. India’s auto industry is undergoing a transformative phase due to a blend of technological advancements, evolving consumer trends and a growing appetite for hybrid & electric vehicles (EVs). India has therefore emerged as a pivotal player in the international automotive arena offering abundant investment opportunities. In first half of FY25, automotive exports from India rose by 14%, with shipments reaching 2.53 million units, up from 2.21 million units in the same period last year.
PLI Scheme 2.0: Unlocking the full potential of India’s automobile sector: Addressing improvements to domestic value addition norms and disbursement processes
Investment and sales challenges
Support for green tech, EV ecosystem, consumer spending boost: Automakers' Budget wishlist
"We request the government for appropriate merit-based policies that support and help in popularising full range of greener technologies and alternative fuels thereby helping in faster and greater adoption of multiple sustainable mobility solutions," Toyota Kirloskar Motor Country Head and Executive Vice President - Corporate Affairs and Governance - Vikram Gulati said.
Auto sector wants measures to boost infra, sustainable mobility
India could be among top 3 markets for us in 2025: Skoda's Martin Jahn
Semiconductor sector needs sops
As February approaches, everyone is looking ahead to the Union Budget 2025. The government’s primary focus for this fiscal year is expected to be economic growth and development. The semiconductor manufacturing industry is a key area of focus in global economic and strategic planning, mainly due to its pivotal role in high-performance computing, the digital economy, national security and more or less, any technological advancement. Given the recent geopolitical developments, including the China-Taiwan issue and growing unrest between China and the West, major semiconductor giants from the West and allied countries like Taiwan, South Korea and Japan are trying to de-risk their investments from China, which presents a significant opportunity for India. With the right policies and infrastructure support, India could position itself as a key player in semiconductor technology.
📝 Mahindra Logistics reports eighth straight quarterly loss, albeit narrower in Q3
📝 Volkswagen India faced customs clearance delays over alleged tax evasion case, sources say
📝 VW group’s Skoda keen on India’s new EV policy, but wants benefits for plug-ins, hybrids
📝 Budget 2025: Auto Industry expects GST reforms, enhanced localization, EV adoption
📝 Tata Projects constructing world's largest back-end semiconductor unit at Sanand in Gujarat
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🎤 Interviews & Features
Most budget-friendly 4x4s in India you can’t miss
The SUV craze has taken the world by storm, and the Indian automotive market is no exception. With SUVs now commanding over 50 per cent of the market share and continuing to grow, there’s a rising demand for 4-wheel drive vehicles that can handle both rugged off-roading and the demands of city driving. We’ve put together a list of four affordable 4×4 SUVs that won’t break the bank. This includes three homegrown Indian models and one globally renowned legend.
From superior ballistic protection to powerful engine: 5 Key features of the Mahindra Armado ALSV showcased
The Republic Day Parade of 2025 witnessed the return of the Mahindra Armado ALSV, a cutting-edge armoured vehicle that has been making waves in the Indian defence sector. As per Auto, this year marked the second consecutive appearance of the Armado, though it was the lone representative of Mahindra’s fleet, unlike 2024, when two vehicles were showcased. Here is what you need to know about this formidable vehicle.
Kia Syros Review: If only looks didn’t matter
The Indian market has become an ocean of SUVs and crossovers in the past decade. The trend becomes even more evident when you see more and more SUVs, which are essentially high-riding hatchbacks, penetrate in the sub-4 metre space. The latest to join the list of sub-4 metre SUVs/crossovers is Kia Syros.
Shimnit group showcases breakthrough security, safety, and Sustainability solutions at Bharat Mobility 2025
Shimnit Group and its associated companies concluded a remarkable showcase at Bharat Mobility 2025, held from January 17 to 22, 2025. Demonstrating its commitment to transforming the mobility landscape, the group highlighted its three core pillars—Security, Safety, and Sustainability—through its flagship brands: Shimnit India, Shimnit New Fire, and BlueVerse. The event provided a platform for the group to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, emphasizing its leadership in revolutionizing the automotive sector with cutting-edge solutions.
Greening the economy - Stepping towards sustainability
Source Credit: Vishnu P. Sudarsan & Kartikeya G.S., The Economic Times
As a nation, we need to take a ‘wholistic’ approach to energy transition. The key elements underpinnings India’s energy transition include renewable energy, smart metering, hydrogen based economy, carbon markets, domestic production of key supply chain products, pumped hydro projects, EV penetration, small nuclear reactors and a robust grid. Whilst evolution to a sustainable green circular economy hinges on continuing on its present path, as outlined by the Prime Minister in his ‘Panch Amrit’, this forthcoming budget provides a perfect platform for bolstering such initiatives.
The renewable energy sector has seen resounding success in India and globally, with India’s installed capacity having grown in leaps and strides to its present quantum of 210 GW. However, certain additional measures are absolutely necessary in order to keep pace and to be able to meet the country’s target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy and to meet rising demand (which is itself a function of a growing population, expanding economy and the rise of new energy intensive sectors such as Artificial Intelligence and data mining). Some of the key measures that the forthcoming budget should be responsive to, include:
Bosch’s PAT drops 12% to ₹458 crore in Q3
German mobility major Bosch Ltd has reported a profit-after-tax (including exceptional items) at ₹458 crore for the quarter that ended on December 31, down by 12 per cent year-on-year (YoY) from ₹518 crore.
📝 Lexus tweaks its product approach for India
📝 Skoda Kylaq deliveries commence: Pricing and variant-wise features detailed
📝 Kia Syros vs Skoda Kylaq: Engine options, fuel-efficiency, specifications compared
📝 All you need to know about the new Kia Syros
Read More >>
🏍 EV/ICE Two Wheelers
TVS Motor Q3 Results: PAT rises 4% Y-o-Y to INR 618 crore, misses estimates
Two-wheeler major TVS Motor Company on Tuesday reported a 4.2% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in its December quarter standalone net profit at INR 618 crore versus INR 593 crore posted in the year-ago period.
Updated Bajaj Dominar 400 on cards: What to expect?
The Dominar 400 may not be a high-volume selling product but it’s still the flagship Bajaj two-wheeler on sale. First launched in 2017, the power cruiser received its first set of upgrades in 2021. The Chakan-based bikemaker is set to introduce another updated iteration of the Dominar 400 soon.
2025 Ducati Panigale V4 sold out!
One day after Ducati announced the bookings for the new Panigale V4, the company officially announced that the first lot for India has been sold out. Ducati has not revealed how many were allocated as part of the first lot, however, it is 25 percent of the motorcycles that are allowed for India. What’s interesting is that Ducati has not launched the 2025 Panigale V4 in India yet, nor announced prices.
KTM 390 ADV to launch in India on January 30: What to expect?
It’s finally confirmed, KTM India is all set to launch the much-awaited 390 Adventure S on January 30. The two-wheeler confirmed the timeline on social media. The Austrian-based company had earlier showcased the 390 Adventure S and the 390 Enduro R in India Bike Week in 2024.
Yamaha YZF-R7 India launch expected later this year — Here’s what you need to know
India and Yamaha have always had a hit-and-miss connection when it came to big bikes, as the Japanese brand once sold multiple big bikes in India. Later, Yamaha pulled out the entire lineup and tried again, and this time, Yamaha has decided to bring back its larger displacement motorcycle portfolio to India again. The company is planning to launch the R7 in India later this year and here’s what you should know.
Bajaj Auto Q3 profit rises 8% to INR 2,196 crore on robust export growth
Domestic sales
No impact on domestic sales of KTM, exports hit, says Bajaj Auto
Honda sets sights on 50% share in global motorcycle market
📝 No 1 position in Indian two-wheeler market within sight: Honda
📝 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 crosses 5 lakh sales milestone
📝 Triumph 1200 Speed Triple RS unveiled in India. Check its engine, specs and features
📝 New-gen Triumph Speed Twin 1200 & Twin Speed 1200 RS launched in India, priced from ₹12.75 lakh
📝 Hero Xoom 160 vs Yamaha Aerox 155: Which 160 cc scooter should be your pick
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⚙ Components
Domestic demand to improve in the CV wheel segment in Q4: Wheels India
Steel wheels manufacturer Wheels India expects the domestic demand to improve in the commercial vehicle wheel segment during the current January-March 2025 quarter, a top official said. The city-headquartered company also hopes to grow its exports in the coming year through new product programmes, Managing Director Srivats Ram said on Tuesday.
India's 2nd phase of electronic manufacturing EMS 2.0 aligns with its vision of becoming a global hub: Report
New Delhi: India is set to advance into the second phase of its electronics manufacturing journey, known as Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) 2.0, which will focus on the actual manufacturing of electronic components, according to a report by Phillip Capital.
Sona to enter 'challenging' China market, dismisses threat from Trump tariffs for US revenues
In a post-results conference call after declaring the third quarter numbers for FY25, MD and Group CEO Vivek Vikram Singh said, “We are actively looking at how to get into China. But anything that I can say will be premature at this stage. Let us have something concrete and of course, the moment we do, we will share with everyone.” Acknowledging that China is a huge automotive market, Singh said it is also a challenging one. “It is not that simple a market. It has challenges in pockets, it has challenges in terms of fragmentation, in terms of supply chain distribution, it has geographic location challenges. So it is not a simple market. But then if we think of ourselves and hopefully we are a good management team, we are entrusted to do the things that are difficult.”
Bosch’s Indian unit posts Q3 profit rise, boosted by auto part sales
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🌇 Allied Industries
PURE EV partners with BE Energy to launch battery reconditioning technology in India
This alliance will bring advanced lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery reconditioning technology to the Indian market, enhancing the sustainability and decarbonisation efforts of electric mobility. It will deploy the patented high-tech equipment from BE Energy in combination with patented BatricsFaraday technology from PURE EV, the company said.
India's energy revolution: Vardhaan Lithium (I) Pvt Ltd to establish nation's first lithium refinery
Sunil Joshi, Chairman, and Vedansh Joshi, Managing Director, are proud to announce the launch of this ambitious initiative, which marks a significant milestone for India.
ATMA seek ban on import of waste/scrap tyres into India
Kochi: Voicing concern over the surge in imports of waste/scrap tyres into the country, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) has urged the government to take immediate steps to ban such shipments.
India’s semiconductor market to touch $103 billion by 2030: IESA
India’s semiconductor market is projected to grow from $52 billion (₹4.5 lakh crore) in 2024 to $103.4 billion (₹9 lakh crore) by 2030, according to a report by the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA).
Battery Passport: Transforming EV supply chains with data transparency, security and sustainability
Highlighting that the whole concept of Battery Passport is coming into India from the European regulation, Radhakrishnan explains that the Battery Passport serves as a unique digital profile for each battery, capturing crucial data points such as origin, composition, performance metrics, and lifecycle history. This not only ensures compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks but also fosters circular economy practices by enabling efficient recycling and reuse strategies. While, currently it is considered for electric vehicle (EV) batteries as it is the most expensive part of the vehicle with safety concerns related to it, he explains that it is not going to be confined to just EV batteries or batteries, but cover a slew of other product parts made of materials such as plastic, steel, and rubber, to mention.
Exide Industries reports 1.96% growth in net profit to ₹244.99 crore in Q3FY25
It, however, witnessed a double-digit growth in the replacement battery segment during the quarter. “Our operating profitability remains steady with EBITDA and PBT margins of 11.7 per cent and 8.5 per cent, respectively, in the current quarter, benefitting from relatively stable commodity prices and focus on cost excellence,” said Avik Roy, MD and CEO, Exide Industries.
📝 Jitendra EV partners with Battery Smart to integrate battery-swapping technology
📝 Mahle eyes larger growth in India, plans slew of clean fuel technologies
📝 Union minister unveils Rs 20,000-cr expansion plan to hike Bokaro Steel Plant capacity to 7.55 MTPA
Read More >>
🌢 Fuels, Lubricants
Maharashtra sets up panel to explore phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles in Mumbai
The Maharashtra government has formed a seven-member committee to explore the possibility of banning petrol and diesel vehicles in Mumbai Metropolitan Region and allowing only CNG and electric vehicles in view of the city's worsening air quality. The panel, headed by retired IAS officer Sudhir Kumar Shrivastava, will study and submit a report with its recommendations within three months, as per the government resolution (GR) dated January 22.
IOC sets capex target for FY26 at Rs 33,000 crore
State-owned major oil marketing company Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has set its capex target for the next fiscal year 2025-26 at Rs 33,000 crore against the capex target of Rs 35,000 crore in FY25, the company said on Tuesday. As of December, the company has incurred a capex of Rs 28,000 crore for the fiscal.
Nayara, Jio-BP sell fuel on discount; state-run OMCs lose market share
New Delhi: Private fuel retailers are cutting prices and eating into the market share of their public sector peers, passing on the benefit of cheaper Russian crude oil to their customers. While government-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) that dominate fuel retailing in India have not touched prices since March 2024, Jio-BP and Nayara, which together control 97% of private fuel retail, have cut prices by as much as ₹5 in some regions.
Indian Oil’s net profit crosses Rs 2,873 crore in Oct-Dec quarter
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on Monday announced a net profit of Rs 2,873.53 crore for the October-December quarter of the current financial year, which represents a sharp recovery from the mere Rs 180 crore net profit recorded by the company in the preceding quarter.
Crude prices to stay between USD 75-85 in 1H2025, USD 65-75 in 2H2025: Report
In the base-case expectations, ICICI Bank sees Brent crude prices trading in the USD 75 per barrel to USD 85 per cent barrel range over 1H2025 and in the USD 65 per barrel to USD 75 per barrel range in 2H2025 assuming a demand slowdown from China kicks in.
📝 Oil prices hold near two-week low as weak China data adds to demand concerns
📝 IndianOil chairman confident US sanctions on Russian oil will not impact India's energy security
📝 Ultraviolette launches UVLYNC allowing e-two-wheelers to charge via car charging stations
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🌍 Emissions/Environment
End of road for clunkers as Centre weighs BS-1 vehicles ban
The ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) is examining a proposal to ban vehicles complying with the first-generation Bharat Stage I(BSI) norms even if they possess fitness certificates, two people aware of the matter said on the condition of anonymity.
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💸 Finance & Insurance
Zelio E Mobility partners with Ecofy for easy green financing
Zelio E Mobility, an Indian electric two-wheeler company, has partnered with Ecofy, a green-focused NBFC, to offer affordable financing options for their electric vehicles. This partnership aims to increase EV accessibility across India and boost sales for Zelio 's models like the X-Men, Gracy, Eeva, and Mystery. This collaboration follows a recent partnership with LoanTap, another financing platform, further expanding customer financing choices.
📝 Mahindra Finance Q3 Results: Profit surges 63% to Rs 899 crore
📝 TVS Credit reports 40% growth in net profit
Read More >>
📖 Magazines
BE 6, XEV 9e real world range, battery warranty sees positive response: Jejurikar
When Mahindra launched the BE 6 and the XEV 9e all-electric SUVs late last year, both models received a lot of traction on social media platforms. Rajesh Jejurikar, executive director and CEO (Auto and Farm Sector) at Mahindra & Mahindra, said in an interaction with Autocar India, “The cumulative viewership of all the digital content that went up after the launch in November has been over 1.4 billion.”
Mahindra BE 6, XEV 9e Pack Two price reveal post March
We have nearly every bit of info regarding the Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e, except the prices of select mid- and higher-spec variants. And, on the sidelines of the recent Auto Expo 2025, Rajesh Jejurikar, executive director and CEO of Mahindra’s Auto and Farm Sector, told us when we can expect the price announcement for the remaining variants. “We will announce the schedule [of the rollout] for [Pack Two] by the end of March,” he said.
Ultraviolette UVLYNC allows e-two-wheelers to be charged at AC car charging stations
Ultraviolette has released a new charging component named the UVLYNC, which allows you to charge two-wheelers at any electric car AC charger. The UVLYNC is priced at Rs 2,999 and is compatible with a charger of any make.
Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS updated for 2025
Triumph’s flagship streetfighter, the Speed Triple 1200 RS, has been updated for 2025 with a little more powerful and new features.
Next-gen BMW X5 to get hydrogen powertrain
The electric BMW iX5 is set for an international launch in 2026, alongside the fifth-generation X5 with upgraded petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Additionally, a hydrogen-powered iX5 will join the line-up in 2028, using a powertrain co-developed with Toyota. This version will be followed by new fuel cell variants of existing models by the end of the decade. It’s too early to comment on its launch here, as the hydrogen infrastructure is undeveloped. For reference, BMW India’s current X5 line-up consists of petrol and diesel engine options only.
Kia Syros review: Ace of Space
The compact SUV segment is a crowded space for sure, with contenders that include Kia’s own Sonet. The Korean automaker has now introduced another player in the mix; enter the Syros, positioned above the Sonet and below the Seltos in Kia’s portfolio.
McLaren sells 50 cars in India
McLaren has sold over 50 supercars in India. This may not sound like a lot, especially as this number represents cumulative sales from back in 2022. However, factor in that the supercar maker produces no SUVs or performance sedans (only supercars and hypercars), was relatively unknown in India prior to its launch here, and has a range that starts at around Rs 4.5 crore and you understand why this actually is something of a big deal.
Quality and customer satisfaction drive rising sales, says Lexus India president
Lexus India says it is experiencing steady sales growth, a trend that looks set to continue in 2025. Hikaru Ikeuchi, Lexus India president, credited the rise in sales to the brand's focus on quality and customer satisfaction in an interview with Autocar India. He also pointed out that the growing demand for luxury cars is a sign of the changing customer landscape, where increasing household incomes are fueling industry growth.
KTM 390 Adventure S launch likely on January 30
KTM India has, via social media, announced that it will be ‘revealing more details’ about the new 390 Adventure S on January 30. However, the company has not specified whether this will be a launch or if the bike’s specifications will be out on that date.
Maruti e Vitara features, colour options revealed
In the run up to the Maruti e Vitara's launch in March, more details about the brand’s first EV are surfacing. We now have details of the features and safety kit the top-spec e Vitara will come with, and the colour options that Maurit will offer on its Tata Curvv EV and Mahindra BE 6 rival.
Honda to set up electric motorcycle factory in India by 2028
Honda Motor Company plans to establish a dedicated electric motorcycle factory in India by 2028, said Daiki Mihara, the head of the Motorcycle and Power Products Electrification Business Unit, in a media interaction in Japan.
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ST revealed
For 2025, Harley-Davidson has introduced a more road-biased variant of its adventure tourer, called the Pan America 1250 ST. It comes with updates, including lowered suspension, road-biased tyres, and 17-inch wheels at both ends.
BMW M3 CS Touring previewed for the first time
BMW has officially teased the M3 CS Touring for the first time, possibly alluding to a full reveal in the coming months. The new model is set to be a racier version of the current BMW M3 Touring, with aggressive design tweaks, weight reductions, an increased power output, and more.
Made in India Suzuki Jimny 5-door to launch in Japan this month
Audi RS Q8 Performance bookings open
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📰 International
General Motors Q4 results: GM posts $2.96 billion loss on China-related charges
US automaker General Motors swung to a loss in the fourth quarter on huge charges related to China.
Sri Lanka lifts ban on vehicle import placed in 2020 due to pandemic
This will be with effect from February 1. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has issued a gazette dated January 24 which ended the ban on vehicle imports imposed in early 2020 with the COVID outbreak. The ban was continued when Sri Lanka suffered its economic crisis triggered by forex shortage.
Thailand car production slumps 20% y/y in 2024, seen up 2% this year
Thailand's car production in 2024 dropped about 20% from the previous year to record the lowest output in four years, owing to weaker domestic sales and exports, although production is expected to rise 2% this year, an industry group said on Tuesday.
Mercedes-Benz expects higher margin on car division in fourth quarter
Mercedes-Benz told investors on Monday it expected the adjusted margin of its passenger car division to be above its 6%-7% forecast for the fourth quarter of 2024, according to analysts at Bernstein Research and Jefferies.
Japan's Honda eyes launching sub-USD 30,000 EV in North America
Japan's Honda Motor plans to launch a small electric vehicle priced below USD 30,000 in North America by as early as 2026, the Nikkei newspaper said on Tuesday, as it plays catch-up in the battery-powered car market.
📝 First TikTok, now automakers. Does Volvo’s Chinese ownership threaten US national security?
📝 China's fossil-fuelled power output may fall in 2025 for first time in decade
📝 US court throws out Biden-era rules designed to protect car buyers
📝 Tesla investors pin hopes on cheaper EV model to boost sales after lackluster 2024
📝 Nissan looks to Trump-proof North American production plans
📝 Tesla, BMW take EU to court over China EV tariffs
Read More >>
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