Top Indian Automobile Industry News & Updates - 05 July 2025,Saturday

🏢 Industry

Truck rentals, EV and tractor sales rise in June; car sales see decline
The Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata corridor witnessed a month-on-month (M-o-M) rise of 2.4 per cent, while the Mumbai-Chennai–Mumbai route grew by 1.9 per cent and the Delhi-Hyderabad-Delhi route saw a 1.6 per cent increase in truck rentals, said June edition of the Shriram Mobility Bulletin.
Auto Focus: Hyundai Creta crosses new sales milestone
The Hyundai Creta has become the highest-selling SUV in the first half of the calendar year 2025, Hyundai has announced. Celebrating the 10th anniversary in 2025, the Creta has managed to top the sales charts thrice in monthly sales this year, including for June 2025, at 15,786 units sold. More than 1.2 million units of the Creta have been despatched since it debuted in 2015, which shouldn’t be a surprise as Hyundai maintains this is the most successful mid-size SUV in terms of yearly sales for the last 10 years.
Dividend alert: M&M announces Rs 25.30 payout – Check record date, eligibility, and key investor signals
More than Rs 25 per share dividend on offer, one of India’s top auto players is once again rewarding its shareholders. But what exactly does “ex-dividend” mean, and why is this day important for retail investors?
Mark your calendars: Bharat Mobility Expo 2027 dates are out
It’s official. The third edition of Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2027 will be held from February 4-9 in the National Capital Region of Delhi, as announced by the commerce ministry. According to the official statement, this premier event will unite industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts to explore advancements in the mobility sector. It further said, “The third edition of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo (BMGE) is scheduled to be held from 4th to 9th February 2027 in the National Capital Region of Delhi.”
China’s mineral export curbs a wake-up call for India, says GTRI
India must urgently reduce its dependence on Chinese imports, particularly in electronics and clean energy, as China tightens export controls on critical minerals, the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said on Thursday, reports PTI.
India proposes retaliatory auto tariffs on US, says Trump tariffs impacting $2.8 billion worth exports
India has notified the World Trade Organisation (WTO) of its plan to impose retaliatory tariffs on selected U.S. products in response to safeguard duties levied by Washington on Indian automobile parts and vehicles. The proposed measures, circulated by the WTO on Friday (July 4, 2025), are aimed at countering a 25% tariff hike by the United States, which India claims violates global trade norms.
Tata Motors gears up for a software-defined EV future with AI-led platforms
In a bid to stay ahead in the evolving electric vehicle (EV) landscape, Tata Motors is doubling down on smart mobility solutions with a focus on connectivity, personalisation, and continuous digital evolution. The company’s commitment is anchored in its CESS philosophy — connected, electric, shared, and safe mobility — and is powering a future where cars behave more like intuitive smart devices.
Brake on emissions: As India plans CAFE norms, a look at regulations followed globally across US, other automotive markets
Globally all major countries shield small cars in CAFE norms: Nomura
The Financial Express
India's auto industry likely to see continued export growth in 2-wheelers, commercial passenger vehicles: Report
Source Credit: ANI, The Tribune
📝  India-U.S. trade pact likely before July 9; certain issues still pending in agri, auto sectors
📝  Renault in talks with JSW for India partnership as Nissan ties unwind: Report
📝  Govt to soon introduce rule requiring silent EVs to have vehicle alerting system
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🚗 ICE Car/SUV

Volkswagen India brings back Autofest 2025 with exclusive offers
Volkswagen India has officially brought back ‘Autofest 2025’, its yearly customer-focused campaign featuring a range of special offers. As part of this nationwide exchange carnival, the carmaker is offering deals on vehicle exchange, attractive financing plans, and value-added service packages. Volkswagen's current portfolio in India includes the locally manufactured Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan, alongside fully imported models like the Tiguan R-Line and Golf GTI.
Suzuki is becoming a top Japan importer with Made-in-India cars
Suzuki Motor Corp. beat out Mercedes-Benz Group AG to become Japan’s top car importer in June, thanks to the Jimny Nomad and another popular small SUV assembled in India.  Although Honda Motor Co. is also known as a longtime importer of its own cars into Japan, Suzuki’s feat is notable because it’s one of the smaller manufacturers in terms of total global output, well behind market leader Toyota Motor Corp.
Skoda Auto India crosses 5 lakh car production milestone
Skoda Auto on Friday said it has surpassed the production milestone of 5 lakh units of vehicles in India, reflecting the contribution of the country’s capabilities to the company’s global strategy.
Hyundai Motor India crosses 1.1 million sunroof-equipped vehicle sales
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has announced that it has surpassed sales of 1.1 million sunroof-equipped vehicles in India over the past five years. The company noted that in FY 2024–25, every second vehicle it sold was fitted with a sunroof.
Honda City Hybrid gets massive discount: Best time to buy?
Honda City has been flying under the radar for some time. In May, the City managed to sell only 491 units, which include both the standard petrol and the hybrid or e:HEV. In comparison, the segment leader in the sedan segment, the Volkswagen Virtus, sold 1,707 units. To boost the numbers, Honda Cars India decided to pull the plug on the City Hybrid V variant, which was also the more affordable option. The good news here is that the top model ZX now attracts a hefty discount of around Rs 95,000, which now costs around Rs 90,000 more than the now defunct V variant.
📝  Second-hand car prices in Delhi drop due to restrictions on end-of-life vehicles, says trade body
📝  Toyota opens base in Maharashtra to set up greenfield plant
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Electric Car/SUV

Tata Motors starts production of feature-packed Harrier.ev
Tata Motors on Friday announced the production of its highly anticipated Harrier.ev. at the company's state-of-the-art facility in Pune.
Mahindra to begin deliveries of BE 6 and XEV 9e pack two from July-end
Mahindra is set to begin deliveries of its BE 6 and XEV 9e pack two electric SUVs by the end of July, with prices starting from ₹21.90 lakh. The new pack includes a larger 79 kWh battery option alongside the existing 59 kWh variant, offering real-world city ranges of up to 500 km and 400 km, respectively.
Mahindra XEV 9e Pack Two launched in India — Here’s what it gets
Mahindra has seen immense success with its latest EV offerings, the BE 6 and XEV 9e. Adding to the excitement, Mahindra has launched the Pack Two version of the XEV 9e, priced at Rs 24.90 lakh onwards, ex-showroom. The Mahindra XEV 9e Pack Two is offered in two versions and also packs a host of features.
📝  Tata Harrier EV production commences in India, deliveries to begin this month
📝  Booked Mahindra XEV 9e or BE 6 Pack 2? Here's when the deliveries begin
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🚗 Luxury

Ferrari SF90 Stradale evades taxes in Bengaluru — Traced down
Supercars in Bengaluru have been under the Transport Department’s radar, and the latest to come under scrutiny was a Ferrari SF90 Stradale. Officers asked the owner to pay a massive tax of Rs 1.42 crore for evading Karnataka road tax. Here’s more on the story.
Land Rover unveils Defender OCTA Black edition
Land Rover has introduced the Defender OCTA Black, a new variant of its high-performance off-roader, featuring extensive blacked-out detailing and interior enhancements. Designed as a more aggressive and luxurious version of the Defender OCTA.
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⛟ Commercial Vehicles

TrucksUp launches safety 360 service for secure digital onboarding
TrucksUp, a logistics aggregator platform, on Friday announced the official launch of Safety 360, an innovative and comprehensive verification service to redefine security and trust within the nation's rapidly digitising trucking ecosystem.
West Bengal to add 350 CNG buses, considers more electric vehicles
The West Bengal Transport Department is planning to procure around 350 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses as part of its public transport fleet expansion, a senior official said. The move is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and diversifying fuel sources.
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🎤 Interviews & Features

India’s Auto Inc could be follower or a fierce leader: Andy Palmer
When Dr Andy Palmer, former Aston Martin CEO and the man credited with launching the world’s first mass-market EV, the Nissan Leaf, speaks about the future of automotive, he doesn’t mince words. During his recent visit to India, Palmer described the country as being at a historic crossroads, one where it must decide whether to continue as a technology follower or emerge as an innovator in its own right.
Rumion enough for you?
There’s no hiding the fact that the Toyota Rumion is essentially a rebadged Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. What it offers in addition to the already well-established product the Ertiga is, are key inclusions that can make the ownership experience even better: Toyota’s well-renowned after-sales service, extended warranty coverage, and even some subtle premium touches on the product itself. We take the Toyota Rumion out on a drive to see how all this comes together.  To start with, the front-end styling has been ever so slightly updated to incorporate a Toyota Innova Crysta-like face. It’s a token inclusion which works in the Rumion’s favour until you move to the side, where the identical Ertiga profile tells you that this isn’t much different. There’s nothing wrong with the way the Ertiga looks and the Rumion gets to enjoy the same well-proportioned exterior styling. 
Driving in Kerala in the monsoon: Navigating the rains on God’s own roads
The two most scenic hill stations in south India are Munnar and Kodaikanal – so, it’s expected that the road connecting the two will be equally stunning.
Syros Fun: Kia
It was just earlier this year that Kia brought out a brand-new SUV, slotted it into a market space that didn’t exist earlier, and even made it look good while doing so. Social media has been abuzz with comments and memes about how it resembles the extremely popular Land Rover Defender, and at the same time, the Syros has consistently received not just buyer attention but also decent sales. Not only does it get the basics right, but it also pushes the boundaries with features unseen in a car this approachable. To further that, a recent crash test routine by Bharat NCAP saw the Syros come out with flying colours and a full five-star rating. So, clearly, Kia seems to have made a potent SUV, but how is it to live with? We find out as we put the turbo-petrol version of the Kia Syros through its paces. 
Make rules for fix, not for show
Aditya Sinha Policy in India often lurches backwards before inching forward. The latest example of this is the confusion over end-of-life (EoL) vehicles — petrol cars over 15 years old and diesel ones over 10. After announcing a fuel ban for such vehicles from July 1, as directed by Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Delhi government put it on hold on Thursday, citing enforcement hurdles and ‘technological challenges’. Now, it plans to target only visibly unfit vehicles, sparing well-maintained old cars.
 
📝  How AI is turbocharging the future of Indian auto industry's software-driven revolution
📝  Mahindra Vision.SXT Concept teased, will join Vision S & Vision T for ‘Independence Day’ reveal
Read More >>

🏗 Construction & Agriculture

Tractor firms want rollout of new emission rules delayed; agri panel submits report
New Delhi: A committee set up by the agriculture and farmers' welfare ministry to examine the implementation of tractor and machinery emission standards-phase V, or TREM V, has submitted its report, a senior government official confirmed.
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🏍 EV/ICE Two Wheelers

Mandatory ABS for 2Ws from January 2026 to boost safety, may impact entry-level demand: ICRA
The government's move to mandate anti-lock braking systems (ABS) in all new two-wheelers from January 1, 2026, is expected to significantly enhance road safety but could dampen recovery in the entry-level segment, according to a recent ICRA report.
2025 Bajaj Dominar 250 and 400 launched — Gets a host of tech updates!
Bajaj has officially launched the updated Dominar 250 and 400 in India after teasing the motorcycle and leaving many wondering if it could be the 250 or 400. Bajaj, having launched both, has priced the 2025 Dominar 250 at Rs 1.91 lakh and the 2025 Dominar 400 at Rs 2.38 lakh, ex-showroom.
📝  Bike makers may appeal to govt to defer rule mandating anti-lock braking systems
📝  Keeway K-Light 250V & Zontes 350X get more affordable by up to ₹71,000
📝  2026 Triumph Scrambler 400 X revealed in a new colour for Europe
Read More >>

⚙ Components

📝  Bosch shares jump 3.5% despite Rs 96 crore customs hit
Read More >>

🌢 Fuels, Lubricants

Shell deepens India market reach through Raj Petro acquisition
Global energy giant Shell has acquired Mumbai-based Raj Petro Specialities to deepen its foothold in the world's third biggest lubricants market in the world, a top company official said.
Every gun matters! The unsung frontline of India’s EV charging revolution
As India’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem expands at a rapid pace, the focus remains firmly on scaling infrastructure and boosting adoption. However, a critical yet largely ignored component is the EV charging gun—central to vehicle charging but often sidelined when it comes to maintenance and service protocols.
BPCL's Premium petrol speed fuels Neeraj Chopra classic 2025
 
📝  Rapido-investor Shell deepens Indian lubricant market reach through Raj Petro acquisition
📝  Tata Power to lead India’s energy transition: N Chandrasekaran
Read More >>

🌍 Emissions/Environment

Delhi govt reverses fuel ban on old vehicles
In a significant U-turn, the Delhi government announced the rollback of its contentious policy that restricted fuel supply to older vehicles, just two days after its implementation sparked widespread public anger and operational challenges.
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💸 Finance & Insurance

Loan for e-car comes for a lower price
To promote green mobility, banks are pricing their loans for four-wheeler electric vehicles (EV) at 5-25 basis points lower than their interest rates on internal combustion engine (ICE) car loans. Most lenders are waiving off processing fees, offering flexible payment options, including no prepayment charges on EV loans.
📝  Bajaj Finance shares rise over 3% after Q1 business update
📝  Supreme Court Rules: No compensation for accidents caused by driver’s own negligence
Read More >>

📖 Magazines

VW Tiguan R Line gets Rs 3 lakh discount 3 months after launch
Volkswagen is rolling out attractive discounts and offers on the Virtus sedan, Taigun SUV, and even the new-gen Tiguan SUV throughout July. Depending on the variant and model year, customers can avail of a flat cash discount, an exchange or scrappage bonus, and a loyalty bonus on these Volkswagen cars.
TVS Ntorq Race XP fuel economy tested, explained
The TVS Ntorq has carved a strong reputation for itself in the 125cc segment, combining punchy performance with smart features. The Race XP variant takes things further with riding modes and a higher power output than standard versions. But how much do all those extras affect real-world efficiency? To find out, we put the Race XP through our standard fuel economy tests in both city and highway conditions.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 vs Triumph Speed T4 comparison review
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350’s recent update has made significant improvements to its appeal, which means it's now time to ask where it stacks up against the competition. Its strongest rival is another neo-retro roadster with a British badge and a similar price point that’s aiming straight at the Hunter buyer.
Mahindra BE 6, XEV 9e Pack Two variants add bigger 79kWh battery
The mid-spec Pack Two variant of the Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e can now be optioned with a 79kWh battery pack, over the existing 59kWh unit. The larger battery was previously exclusive to the range-topping Pack Three variants of the two Mahindra electric SUVs, and its introduction lower down in the lineup confirms our May 2025 report.
Delhi reverses fuel ban for 10 year old diesel, 15 year old petrol vehicles
The Delhi government has backtracked on its recently-implemented ban on fuel sales to vehicles classified under "end of life" status, i.e. petrol vehicles over 15 years of age and diesel vehicles over 10 years of age. This pause is a consequence of operational and technical challenges surrounding the fuel ban, as well as public backlash.
Suzuki takes wraps off all new GSX8T and GSX8TT retros
Suzuki has taken the wraps off two all-new neo-retro roadsters - the GSX-8T and GSX-8TT. These new 8T models are built on the same platform as the GSX-8R sportbike, with some obvious visual differences and some not-so-obvious changes under the new suave design. 
Mercedes AMG GT: FAQs on price, performance, features
Mercedes-Benz recently launched the new-gen AMG GT sports car in India, which will sit at the pinnacle of the German carmaker’s performance line-up. Buyers of the new AMG GT can opt between two variants: the standard GT 63 4Matic+, or the edgier GT 63 Pro 4Matic+. Should you be in the market for a new AMG GT, we’ve answered some of the most prevalent questions around the sports car below.
Maruti Grand Vitara hybrid discounts go up to Rs 1.85 lakh in July
Maruti Suzuki Nexa dealers across India are offering a range of benefits and discounts on the Fronx, Baleno, Grand Vitara, Ignis, XL6, Invicto, Ciaz and Jimny. Buyers can avail of cash discounts alongside exchange/ scrappage offers on the aforementioned models throughout the remainder of July.
Honda City hybrid price slashed by nearly a lakh
Honda Cars India has slashed the price of its City e:HEV hybrid by nearly Rs 1 lakh. Exclusively sold in one fully-loaded ZX variant, the Honda City hybrid is now priced at Rs 19.90 lakh, ex-showroom. The Honda City e:HEV has the distinction of being the only hybrid in the midsize sedan segment.
10 bikes with the tallest seat height in India
Earlier, we curated a list of ADVs with the lowest seat heights for riders who aren’t confident handling tall motorcycles. This time, we’ve gone in the opposite direction — highlighting motorcycles with the tallest seat heights. These are typically found in off-road and adventure-focused categories, where taller saddles come as a result of their design — offering generous ground clearance, long-travel suspension, and a commanding rider’s perch.
Next Bharat Mobility Expo dates confirmed
Corroborating our May report, the Commerce Ministry has announced that the third edition of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo (BMGE) will be held from February 4-9, 2027, in Delhi-NCR. BMGE had switched to an annual format for the last two shows in 2024 and 2025. However, the shift to a biennial schedule has been made so that the participants have more time to build and showcase next-generation mobility solutions.
Citroen e-Spacetourer being evaluated for India
Citroen is seriously evaluating bringing the e-Spacetourer to India to enter the fast-growing premium MPV space here. If it materializes, it will be brought to India as a full import, but given the ongoing FTA talks, Citroen could have the opportunity to price it attractively. This MPV is available with diesel and electric powertrains abroad, but it is only the EV version that’s being evaluated for India.
Updated BMW CE 04 unveiled
BMW Motorrad has taken the wraps off the updated version of its CE 04 electric maxi-scooter. While the scooter’s core powertrain remains unchanged, it now gets more colour options and equipment choices to enhance everyday usability and comfort.
Updated Bajaj Dominar teased ahead of launch
Bajaj has teased the imminent launch of an updated Dominar on its social media handle. The Dominar modes haven’t seen an update in quite a while and are still powered by the older 373cc KTM-derived powerplant. 
2025 Bajaj Dominar 250 and 400 launched
Bajaj has launched the updated Dominar 400 and Dominar 250 in India, with both bikes receiving new electronics, touring equipment, and ergonomic revisions. The Dominar 400 is now priced at Rs 2.39 lakh, while the Dominar 250 costs Rs 1.92 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi).
Keeway K Light 250V and Zontes 350X prices cut by up to Rs 71,000
Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI) Pvt Ltd has announced a huge price cut on two bikes it has under its umbrella of various Chinese-owned brands. The Keeway K-Light 250V cruiser and the Zontes 350X sport tourer have both seen big price revisions.  
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📰 International

Why Nissan’s recalling half a million cars in U.S. and Canada?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced the recall of over 480,000 vehicles. The recall includes vehicles in both the U.S. and Canada, and the reason for this is a potential manufacturing issue that could lead to an engine failure. According to NHTSA documents, 443,899 vehicles are recalled in the U.S, while Nissan confirmed to Associated Press that 37,837 units are affected in Canada.
Tesla UK sales up 14% in June this year
Tesla’s new car sales in Britain rose year-on-year in June amid a broader recovery in the electric-vehicle market, data showed on Friday, as the U.S. auto maker started deliveries of its updated Model Y last month.
US electric vehicle tax breaks will expire on September 30
Sweeping tax and budget legislation approved by Congress on Thursday means $7,500 tax credits for buying or leasing new electric vehicles will end on September 30, as well as a $4,000 used EV credit, that have helped juice green vehicle sales in recent years.
China's intense EV rivalry tests Thailand's local production goals
Hyper-competition in China's electric vehicle sector is spilling over to its biggest market in Asia, Thailand, as smaller players struggle to compete with dominant BYD, putting ambitious local production plans at risk.
Germany’s Autobahn Cracks After Heat Wave Hits Europe
Germany will carry out emergency repairs on its autobahn this weekend after extreme heat in recent days blew up large chunks of concrete along key stretches of the highway.
China urges caution - and speed - on assisted-driving technology
China's automakers are outpacing foreign rivals in their push for assisted-driving technology, eager to woo motorists hungry for rapid innovation.
China shows signs of tackling price wars taking toll on its EV industry
 
📝  Only 15 electric vehicle brands in China will be financially viable by 2030, AlixPartners says
📝  Polestar to make new SUV in Europe from 2028
📝  Volvo Cars pushes back large-scale production at new Slovak plant to early 2027
Read More >>


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