India’s First D+ SUV Promises Hassle-Free Ownership with 5-5-5 Programme

• India’s First D+ SUV now backed by 5-Year Unlimited KM Warranty, Free 5-Year Roadside Assistance for Unlimited Km and 5 Labour-Free Services
• Innovative 5-5-5 ownership programme delivers complete peace of mind to MAJESTOR customers
• First 3000 pre-reserve customers can avail the benefits of this unique programme by booking the MAJESTOR at a Pre-reserve price of INR 41000/-

JSW MG Motor India reassured customers with long-term ownership assurance through its unique 5-5-5 ownership programme for the MG MAJESTOR- India’s First D+ SUV. In a segment where customers invest significantly in performance, size and advanced technology, the 5-5-5 programme has been designed to deliver hassle free ownership experience, long-term cost predictability, by addressing running costs and nationwide support from the outset.

Unlike standalone warranty extensions or optional service packages, the 5-5-5 proposition brings together a 5-Year Unlimited Kilometres Warranty, Free 5-Year Roadside Assistance for Unlimited KM, and 5 Labour-Free Services as a unified, standard offering for the MAJESTOR customers. For customers, this means no kilometre cap on warranty coverage, five full years of nationwide breakdown support, and reduced service expenditure during the most intensive early years of ownership. For high-mileage users, long-distance travellers and off- road enthusiasts, this translates into measurable financial predictability and complete peace-of-mind.

Commenting on the initiative, Vinay Raina, Chief Commercial Officer, JSW MG Motor India, said, “The MG MAJESTOR has been created as an SUV that is rugged in its capability, refined in its comfort, and dependable in its engineering. For us, delivering a strong product was only one part of the commitment and ensuring complete peace-of-mind in ownership was equally important. With the 5-5-5 programme, we have built structured, long-term assurance into the proposition from day one. This reflects our customer-first philosophy and our confidence in the MAJESTOR as a true full-size SUV engineered for Indian conditions and usage patterns.”

Powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine delivering best-in-segment 215.5 PS and 478.5 Nm of torque, mated to a best-in-class 8-speed automatic transmission in both 2WD and advanced 4WD configurations, the MG MAJESTOR is engineered for serious capability. It comes with First-in-segment Triple Differential Locks (front, rear and centre), an Advanced 4WD system with 10 off-road modes, and Crawl Control Mode for extreme terrain mastery, along with 219 mm ground clearance and an 810 mm water wading capability. As India’s First D+ SUV with Level 2 ADAS, the MAJESTOR also combines rugged performance with advanced safety and intelligent technology. The 5-5-5 Complete Peace of Mind programme complements this engineering strength, ensuring that customers can confidently experience the vehicle’s full capability with long-term ownership assurance built in.

Pre-reservations for the MG MAJESTOR are open at INR 41,000 on www.mgmotor.co.in. With showroom display and test drives commencing in April 2026 and deliveries beginning in May 2026, customers now have the opportunity to secure early access to India’s First D+ SUV along with the benefits of the 5-5-5 Complete Peace of Mind programme.

Renault Announces the Return of the Iconic Duster—this Republic Day, the Country’s OG SUV Invites You to Rethink SUV

Renault India, a wholly owned subsidiary of the French carmaker Renault Group, today officially announced that its much-awaited new SUV will proudly carry forward the legacy of the iconic nameplate – Duster.

Originally launched in India in 2012, the Renault Duster redefined the SUV landscape and pioneered a segment that today accounts for nearly one-fourth of the passenger vehicle market. The Duster is also going to be the first product to be launched under the brand’s International Game Plan 2027 in India. The car is a key pillar company’s India centric transformation strategy renault. rethink.

Speaking on the occasion, Stephane Deblaise, CEO Renault Group India said “Renault Duster is more than just a name – it’s a true legend. A symbol of adventure, reliability and innovation, its comeback shows our commitment to the Indian market and our desire to offer vehicles that meet the needs of our customers. New Renault Duster will rely on its iconic heritage while adopting a modern design, advanced technology and enhanced performance.”

The announcement marks a significant moment for Indian automotive enthusiasts, many of whom have long awaited the return of the beloved SUV. With close to 1.8 million customers globally and more than 200,000 happy owners in India, the Duster enjoys a cult following and remains one of the most successful SUVs in Renault’s global portfolio.

The icon will be unveiled on Republic Day – 26th January 2026. Until then, stay in the loop by joining the waiting program starting today.

ABOUT RENAULT

Renault, a historic mobility brand and pioneer of electric vehicles in Europe, has always developed innovative vehicles. With the ‘Renaulution’ strategic plan, Renault has embarked on an ambitious, value-generating transformation moving towards a more competitive, balanced, and electrified range. Its ambition is to embody modernity and innovation in technology, energy, and mobility services in the automotive industry and beyond.

Renault India Pvt. Ltd. is a fully owned subsidiary of Renault S.A.S. France. Renault India cars are manufactured in the manufacturing facility located in Oragadam, Chennai, with a capacity of 480,000 units per annum. Renault India also has a widespread presence of close to 350+ sales and 450+ service touchpoints, which include 250+ Workshop on Wheels locations across the country, with benchmark sales and service quality.

TVS Motor Company Unveils '2025 TVS Ronin', the Ultimate Modern Retro Motorcycle

• The 2025 TVS RONIN is now available in two new colours - Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember
• The mid-variant now comes equipped with Dual-Channel ABS

TVS Motor Company, a leading global automaker in the two and three-wheeler segment, announced the launch of the all-new TVS RONIN 2025 Edition – a bold new iteration of its category defining modern-retro motorcycle. Since its inception, the TVS RONIN has redefined motorcycling by blending the timeless appeal of retro aesthetics with cutting edge technology and contemporary riding. The 2025 TVS RONIN now introduces vibrant colours, a sleek new style and enhanced features.

Designed for the free-spirited rider who embraces life beyond the script, the 2025 TVS RONIN has been launched with two additional striking colours: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember. This addition highlights TVS Motor's commitment to providing customers with fresh, bold choices that enhance the bike's overall visual appeal and give it a sharp, modern edge. Along with its eye-catching new colours, the 2025 edition now has Dual Channel ABS in its mid variant, starting at an attractive price of INR 1.59 Lakh.

 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head Business - Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS RONIN has redefined modern-retro motorcycling in the country and continues to embody the essence of #Unscripted motorcycling, empowering riders to explore unchartered paths with confidence and style. With the 2025 edition, we bring in a new palette of striking colours along with upgraded safety features and are excited to bring this refreshed model to our customers and look forward to their enthusiastic response as they experience the next chapter of the TVS RONIN's journey.”

This upgrade helps set apart all three RONIN variants and maintains a strong balance between style and functionality. The 2025 TVS RONIN will be available at authorized TVS dealerships across India, starting INR 1,35 lakh (ex-showroom.)

Complementing the TVS RONIN’s modern-retro aesthetics is a powerful 225.9cc engine, delivering 20.4 PS at 7,750 RPM and 19.93 Nm of torque at 3,750 RPM. Designed for versatility, it features Glide through Technology (GTT) for smooth low-speed riding, an assist and slipper clutch for effortless gearshifts, and an upside-down front fork for superior handling.

Indian Bank Inks MoU with Tata Motors to Offer Commercial Vehicle Financing Solutions

Indian Bank, one of India’s leading public sector banks, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer to offer attractive financing solutions to Tata Motors commercial vehicle customers and authorised dealerships across the country.

The bank will offer customised financial packages with competitive interest rates and streamlined credit processing. This partnership will provide tailored financial solutions for Tata Motors’ entire commercial vehicle portfolio including LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) and electric range of commercial vehicles.

Tata Motors and Indian Bank will also significantly scale up their partnership on dealer financing.

Speaking on this announcement, Mr. Ashutosh Choudhury, Executive Director, Indian Bank, said, “We are elated to sign a MoU with Tata Motors to offer tailored financial solutions for their dealerships and fleet operators. Our financial packages will help both customers and dealers achieve their business objectives while enhancing overall financial efficiency. We look forward to working closely with Tata Motors to help their customers achieve their business goals.”

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Rajesh Kaul, Vice President & Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors, said, “We are happy to sign a MoU with Indian Bank, this partnership will help provide easy financing solutions for our customers. By streamlining credit access and offering seamless financing options, we aim to strengthen financial ecosystem for our dealer network, helping them scale their business while providing enhanced convenience to our valued customers.”

Tata Motors offers the widest commercial vehicle portfolio spanning from sub-1-tonne to 55-tonne cargo vehicles and 10-seater to 51-seater mass mobility solutions. These robustly engineered commercial vehicles are further complemented by a range of value-added services for comprehensive vehicle lifecycle management, through its Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative. With Fleet Edge – Tata Motors’ connected vehicle platform for optimal fleet management, which enables operators to further increase the uptime of its vehicles and reduce the total cost of ownership, and 24×7 support from India’s widest service network, Tata Motors continues to establish new benchmarks in holistic transportation solutions.

Founded on August 15, 1907, Indian Bank is a prominent Public Sector Bank in India, with the Government of India holding 73.84% of its shares (as of 30th June’ 2024). Recognized as the first public sector bank to install an ATM in Madras in 1989, it operates 5,846 branches (including 3 Digital Banking Units) across diverse regions: 1,983 rural, 1,531 semi-urban, 1,173 urban, and 1,159 metros. The Bank also has 3 overseas branches and 1 International Banking Unit (IBU). As part of its digital transformation drive Indian Bank under Project WAVE, is redefining customer experiences and optimizing services. In Q1 FY25, the Bank generated an impressive ₹36,678 crores via digital channels, while also witnessing a sharp surge in mobile banking and credit card users. Under Supply Chain Finance, the Bank provides end-to-end financing solution through Online platform for meeting working capital requirements of Dealers and Vendors. Supply Chain Finance product of the Bank has made strong strides in recent past and on-boarded many leading companies in automobile and other sectors.

BMW and Tata Technologies Launch New JV 'BMW TechWorks India'

BMW Group and Tata Technologies have launched a new Joint Venture (JV) — BMW TechWorks India. This new global hub is focused on Al, automotive software, and business processes.

BMW Group and Tata Technologies each hold a 50% share in this joint venture. The JV will have offices in strategic talent hubs in Pune, Bengaluru, and Chennai.

The Joint Venture (JV) will innovate automotive software, including software-defined vehicles (SDV) and digital transformation solutions for business IT.

The newly formed organisation will leverage resources from BMW Group’s India and Munich operations as well as Tata Technologies, TCS and Tata Elxsi to not only develop software and new innovations for in-car systems, but also manage business and manufacturing processes for BMW Group across the world.

BMW TechWorks India will work on software-defined vehicles (SDV), automated driving, Al applications, next-gen infotainment systems, and business IT solutions.

The joint venture will start with 100 employees and rapidly scale to a four-digit workforce by the end of 2025. This collaboration aims to drive digital innovation in the automotive industry and strengthen BMW's global strategy by leveraging top-tier Indian talent.

India’s exceptional engineering and IT talent will play a pivotal role in developing strategic software solutions for SDVs, automated driving, digital infotainment, and automotive digital services. In addition to automotive software, the joint venture will provide digital innovations for the BMW Group’s Business IT.

Consequently, BMW TechWorks India will expedite the digital transformation of the car manufacturer’s global production network as well as strengthen its digital customer journey and sales processes. Another key area of focus will be the development of AI applications and platforms, which will increase the speed and efficiency of all core business processes.

The management team of BMW TechWorks India is comprised of seasoned executives from both partner companies. Representing Tata Technologies are Aditya Khera as CEO and Sweta Girinatham as CFO of this JV. From the BMW Group, Stefan Flader serves as COO of Enterprise IT, and Oliver Scheickl holds the position of COO of Automotive Software in this new JV.

Apart from the recent joint venture with Tata Technologies, BMW has engaged in several other collaborations with Indian companies. BMW and an another Tata Group company, Tata Motors, have a long-standing partnership, including the production of the BMW X1 and BMW X3 models in India.

BMW and Bajaj Auto have collaborated on the development of the BMW K1600 B motorcycle, which is designed and manufactured in India.

BMW has also partnered with Mahindra & Mahindra for various projects, including the development of electric vehicles and mobility solutions.

Tata Motors Unveils New Vehicle Manufacturing Plant in Tamil Nadu; To Use 100% Renewable Power

Tata Motors recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new vehicle manufacturing facility in Panapakkam, Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu. This state-of-the-art, greenfield plant will use 100% renewable power and is expected to create over 5,000 employment opportunities. The facility will produce next-generation vehicles for both Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), catering to both Indian and global markets.

This initiative aligns with Tata Motors' commitment to sustainability and innovation. The plant will also focus on skill-building within the local community. It's a significant step towards promoting indigenous manufacturing under the "Make in India, For the World" initiative.

Tata Motors Group intends to invest ~INR 9,000 crores (approximately 1.08 billion USD) in this greenfield manufacturing facility, which has been designed for an annual production capacity of over 250,000 vehicles. Production will begin in a phased manner and progressively increase to reach this capacity over the next 5-7 years.

This new Tata Motors facility in Tamil Nadu will produce a range of next-generation vehicles for both Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). This includes electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles, and advanced internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The focus will be on leveraging cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to cater to both domestic and international markets.

The manufacturing facility is designed to have an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles. This capacity will support the production of a range of next-generation vehicles for both Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), including electric vehicles (EVs) and other advanced models.

Maruti Suzuki is Now Exporting Its Made-In-india SUV Fronx to Japan

Maruti Suzuki has started exporting its award-winning SUV, the Fronx,— which is its ‘Made-in-India’ SUV— to Japan. This marks the first time Maruti Suzuki is launching an SUV in the Japanese market, highlighting the success of the 'Make in India' initiative. The Fronx is exclusively manufactured at Maruti Suzuki’s advanced facility in Gujarat.

The award-winning Fronx is the second model from Maruti Suzuki to be exported to Japan, after Baleno in 2016. Fronx is planned to be launched in Japan by Suzuki Motor Corporation, Maruti Suzuki’s parent company, in the autumn of 2024. The historic milestone symbolizes the growing strength and global reach of the Indian manufacturing industry.

The first consignment of over 1,600 vehicles has already been shipped from Gujarat’s Pipavav port. This move not only showcases Maruti Suzuki's manufacturing capabilities but also underscores India's growing strength in the global automotive industry.

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a subcompact crossover SUV that has gained significant attention since its launch.

Unveiled globally at the Auto Expo 2023, Fronx was launched in India on 24th April 2023. Fronx stands out with its modern SUV design, spirited performance, and tech-loaded premium persona. The SUV has caught the fancy of Indian consumers and became the first model in the country to clock the fastest 1 lakh sales within 10 months from launch. In July 2023, the company commenced export of Fronx to destinations like Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Cumulatively since launch, Fronx has recorded total sales of over 2 lakh units in domestic and export markets.

Maruti Suzuki exports vehicles to nearly 100 countries. Some of the key markets include South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Chile, Mexico, Philippines, Indonesia, and Ivory Coast, among others. 

These exports highlight Maruti Suzuki's strong global presence and its commitment to the 'Make in India' initiative.

Mahindra and China's Shaanxi $3 Bn JV to Build a Car Seeks Govt Nod

Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra and China's Shaanxi Automobile Group have agreed to establish a $3 billion joint venture to build a car manufacturing plant in India, said a report exclusive to Reuters. However, in a stock exchange statement, Mahindra has denied this report.

According to the report, the plant is proposed to be set up in Gujarat and will include an export-oriented, integrated manufacturing hub for assembled cars, engines, and car batteries.

The joint venture is currently awaiting approval from the Indian government. A majority stake in the proposed manufacturing venture will be owned by Mahindra.

This move comes as India is looking to ease restrictions on Chinese investments in non-sensitive sectors.

In 2020, the Indian government introduced stricter regulations requiring government approval for any investment from countries sharing a land border with India, including China. This move was aimed at addressing security concerns and reducing dependency on Chinese imports.

Recently, the government has started considering sector-specific approvals for Chinese investments. This means that investments in less sensitive sectors might be allowed, while critical sectors remain under strict scrutiny.

Approvals for Chinese investments are being given on a case-by-case basis. For example, Haier Appliances India received approval to invest ₹184 crore in AC component manufacturing after nearly two and a half years.

Shaanxi Automobile Group, also known as Shacman, is a prominent Chinese manufacturer of buses and trucks. Founded in 1968, the company is headquartered in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. The Chinese auto group has a significant international footprint, with operations in over 140 countries. The company recently developed the X6000 800, the world’s most powerful truck, featuring a 16.6-liter engine.

Besides, Mahindra also has a notable presence in China, primarily through its acquisition of Jiangling Tractors Company. This strategic move has solidified Mahindra's position in the Chinese market for agricultural equipment. The company operates manufacturing facilities in China, which cater to both the domestic market and international exports.

Additionally, Mahindra (China) Tractor Co. Ltd. manufactures tractors for the growing Chinese market and exports them to the USA and other western nations. This presence allows Mahindra to meet the demand for tractors and agricultural equipment in China while also serving global markets.

Ford to Make a Comeback in India With a New Strategy – Report

Ford is contemplating a re-entry into the Indian market. A global team, including CEO Jim Farley, will evaluate a fresh proposal with a new strategy. The plan involves new investments, a focus on electric vehicles and sustainability, and production for exports. Ford's belief in India's potential as a volume leader in the global auto industry drives this decision.

A report on feasibility of re-entering India will be considered by global team at Ford's headquarters and the possible re-entry will call for new investments, focus on electrics and sustainability.

The brand's recognition among potential buyers also plays a crucial role. If approved, it may take around a year to start production at the Chennai factory. Despite being present in India for over three decades, Ford previously struggled to build a solid business case here.

Ford faced several challenges during its previous operations in India. Despite investing over $2 billion in India, Ford struggled to gain significant market share. After 25 years of operations, they held only 2% of the market.

Earlier joint ventures with Mahindra & Mahindra did not meet Ford’s expectations. These partnerships failed to establish a stable business, leading to Ford’s decision to sell its Gujarat plant to Tata Motors and consider exiting the Indian marke.

Ford grappled with a dated product lineup and stiff market competetion, hindering its ability to sustain operations in India.

Now, as Ford considers re-entering India with a focus on electric vehicles and sustainability, it aims to overcome these challenges and tap into the country’s growth potential.

Ford's Global Strategy for Electric Vehicles

Ford’s global strategy for electric vehicles is ambitious and comprehensive. The auto major is investing $22 billion in electrification through 2025. This substantial commitment aims to lead electrification in areas of strength.

The company is electrifying its most iconic products, including the 'Mustang'. The all-electric Mustang Mach-E, which delivers the 0-60 mph hrills Mustang is famous for, along with cutting-edge technology and over-the-air Ford Power-Up software updates. The F-150 Lightning, an all-electric version of America’s best-selling truck, combining innovation, technologies, and capabilities. The E-Transit, an all-electric version of America’s best-selling van, designed for smart and connected fleet operations.

Potential Partnership with Tata Motors

According to few of the auto news portals, Ford is exploring a potential partnership with Tata Motors to re-enter the Indian market, this time with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs). Notably, Ford and Tata have a storied past. In 1998, Tata launched India’s first indigenous car, the Indica, but it faced challenges. Later, Tata acquired Jaguar-Land Rover (JLR) from Ford, turning it profitable.

Partnering with Tata, a leader in the EV segment, could accelerate Ford’s re-entry. The PLI scheme for local EV production adds to the appeal.

Ford exited India in 2021 but now seeks to return. The recent sale of its Sanand, Gujarat plant to Tata Motors hints at collaboration. Ford aims to develop new products, hybrid powertrains, and EVs in India.

Larsen & Toubro Wins ₹ 1,000–2,500 Cr Order to Construct Automobile Plant Near Bengaluru

The Buildings & Factories (B&F) business vertical of Larsen & Toubro has won an order to construct a state-of-the-art automobile manufacturing plant for a prestigious company.

According to the company’s classification of projects, the value of the order is between ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 crores.

According to sources, privy to this matter, the unnamed prestigious company behind this project is Tata Motors. Tata Motors has entrusted Larsen & Toubro's Buildings & Factories (B&F) business vertical with the construction of their state-of-the-art automobile manufacturing plant near Bengaluru. The project will emphasize sustainability and environmental considerations, aligning with Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) norms.

The manufacturing plant is to be constructed near Bengaluru by adhering to IGBC norms. The scope entails comprehensive design, execution of civil, structural, architectural and MEPF (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection) services.

The Buildings & Factories vertical of L&T has immense expertise and wide-ranging experience to undertake all types of EPC projects for a variety of sectors. Over the years, it has acquired the capability to execute complex industrial projects on a design-and-build basis and has emerged as a total solutions provider in the factory construction segment.

The exact size of the automobile manufacturing plant hasn't been specified in the official press release announcement. However, given Tata Motors' reputation and the emphasis on sustainability, we can expect it to be a substantial facility, likely spanning several acres.

Honda Developing Global Platform 'PF2' for Made In India Vehicles

Honda is said to be working on a global platform for its small- and medium-car portfolio, and India is set to become the global production base for this endeavor, reported AutocarIndia.com, a reputed auto publication. The new modular platform, codenamed "PF2," will serve as the foundation for a variety of upcoming products, including sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles (EVs), and hybrids.

The PF2 platform is designed to be versatile, accommodating both internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV powertrains. Honda aims to follow a multi-powertrain strategy, similar to Toyota.

Unlike a dedicated EV platform, the PF2 provides flexibility, especially considering the evolving demand for electric vehicles.

Honda's commitment to selling only EVs or fuel cell cars by 2040 remains intact, but the PF2 allows them to adapt to market dynamics. The PF2 platform will underpin a range of future models, including sedans, SUVs, and hybrids.

Honda hopes that the PF2 will rejuvenate its sales in India, where volumes for the City sedan and the Elevate (sold as the WR-V in Japan) have faced challenges. The Elevate has performed well in exports to Japan, making India an essential low-cost export hub for Honda.

With growing demand for strong-hybrid SUVs, Honda plans to localize its hybrid powertrain. The PF2 platform is designed to be hybrid-ready from the outset. In early 2029, Honda intends to launch a compact SUV based on the PF2 platform, which could arrive in Indian showrooms around the same time.

Overall, Honda's PF2 platform represents a strategic move to enhance its product lineup, address market shifts, and strengthen its position in India and beyond.

Besides Honda, several other automakers are actively developing innovative platforms. Ford is developing a Low-Cost EV Platform, which the American auto major compares it with Rivian and Tesla's offerings. The platform aims to support smaller electric cars and will be used for Ford's next-gen EVs.

Ford's Skunkworks team, led by Alan Clarke (known for his work with Tesla's Model Y), is engineering this platform. The goal is to create a more affordable EV platform with a smaller battery and different chemistry.

Automakers also collaborate, most of the times, to save costs and share technology. For instance, BMW and Toyota worked together, with BMW needing a roadster and Toyota requiring a halo sports car. Volkswagen and Citroën shared platforms for models like the original Beetle and VW Bus.

In summary, automakers are increasingly exploring partnerships and efficient platforms to enhance their product offerings and address market demands.

Maruti Suzuki India's Accelerator Program Now Open for Global Startups as Well

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has opened applications for the 9th Cohort of its Maruti Suzuki Accelerator program, which now includes global startups. This initiative aims to create an enabling ecosystem for startups with technology-driven innovations in the automobile manufacturing and mobility space. Here are the key benefits for startups:

1. Guidance from Mentors: Startups receive guidance from mentors associated with domestic and international startup ecosystems, as well as domain experts from Maruti Suzuki.

2. Paid Proof of Concept: Qualified startups have the opportunity to conduct a Paid Proof of Concept with Maruti Suzuki.

3. Educational Visits to Japan: Participants can engage in educational visits to Japan, fostering global market connections.

4. Funding: Startups may secure funding through the Maruti Suzuki Innovation Fund.

Since its inception, the program has screened over 2,000 startups across 8 cohorts, engaging with 56 startups. Notably, 18 of these startups have become business partners, generating a combined business of over INR 1 billion. Starting with Cohort 9, the program has been rebranded as the Maruti Suzuki Accelerator, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and growth. Interested startups can apply [here].

In the previous cohorts of the Maruti Suzuki Accelerator program, several startups have made significant strides. Here are some notable success stories:

1. Woloo: Woloo emerged as one of the winners in the program. Their innovative solutions likely address specific challenges within Maruti Suzuki's business verticals. 
2. Hala Mobility: Hala Mobility, another winning startup, showcased promising technology relevant to the automobile manufacturing and mobility space.
3. SwitchON: SwitchON, the third winner, impressed with their solutions. Their contributions may enhance customer convenience or improve business processes for Maruti Suzuki.

Maruti Suzuki has engaged with a total of 56 startups across eight cohorts. Out of these, 18 startups have become business partners, collectively generating over INR 1 billion in business. These success stories demonstrate the program's commitment to fostering innovation and driving technological advancements in the automotive industry.

Volkswagen in Talks With Mahindra for Joint Venture

German car maker Volkswagen (VW) is reportedly in preliminary talks with Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) to scale up their supply agreement on components for a joint venture.

In February, the two companies signed a supply agreement covering components of VW's vehicle platform for M&M's purpose-built electric platform called INGLO. The deal includes certain electric components and unified cells, with the first electric SUV on the INGLO platform set to launch later this year.

It is to be noted that, as per media reports, the Volkswagen Group is currently in talks to sell its stake in its India business to a local partner. Despite having invested over $2 billion USD, Volkswagen has faced challenges in the Indian market, which is highly cost-sensitive.

The German carmaker is now focusing on developing new products for India, where "over-engineered" vehicles have struggled to gain traction. Klaus Zellmer, global CEO of Skoda Auto, emphasized the importance of finding the right partner for a true collaboration, including shared engineering, sales, and procurement competence. While Zellmer did not reveal the potential partner, Mahindra is rumored to be a front-runner.

VW's India business has faced challenges due to premium pricing and poor brand recall, while M&M has well-defined plans for the electric vehicle segment. The joint venture could be a strategic move for both companies as they explore opportunities in the Indian market.

Besides the potential joint venture with Mahindra and Mahindra in India, Volkswagen has been actively engaged in other collaborations globally. Volkswagen recently resolved to invest initially $1 billion USD in Rivian Automotive, Inc., and intends to establish a joint venture in the area of E/E architecture for electric vehicles. The joint venture would allow Volkswagen access to Rivian's current E/E architecture technology. 

In China, Volkswagen has three joint ventures — SAIC Volkswagen, FWA-Volkswagen, and JAC Volkswagen. These ventures produce Volkswagen Group brand models for the Chinese market. 

Volkswagen has also partnered with companies like Umicore, 24M Technologies, and Vulcan Energy Resources to enhance electric vehicle production and technology.

Additionally, Volkswagen plans to take a 60% stake in a $2 billion tech joint venture with China's Horizon Robotics to further develop software and technology.

Bajaj Auto Launches World's 1st CNG Motorcycle

Bajaj Auto recently launched the world's first CNG motorcycle, aptly named the Freedom 125. Its longest-in-class seat and mono-linked type suspension offers superior comfort while the Bluetooth connectivity adds convenience.

📍 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐞

𝙇𝙖𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙’𝙨 🌏 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙉𝙂 𝙈𝙤𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙮𝙘𝙡𝙚 🏍 𝙗𝙮 𝘽𝙖𝙟𝙖𝙟 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙣 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮.

This groundbreaking innovation promises significant savings in operating costs and pollution reduction. With this eco-friendly… pic.twitter.com/TLyiLP38At

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) July 5, 2024

Below are some more key details about this innovative two-wheeler:

Fuel System: The Freedom 125 features both a 2-kilogram under-seat CNG tank and a 2-liter petrol tank. Riders can easily switch between petrol and CNG modes using a convenient switch.

Cost Savings: Bajaj claims that the Freedom 125 offers approximately 50% cost savings compared to similar petrol motorcycles due to reduced fuel expenses.

Range: On CNG alone, the motorcycle can cover about 213 kilometers (with a fuel efficiency of 105 km/kg). Additionally, it can travel an additional 117 kilometers on petrol (with a petrol efficiency of 65 km/l), resulting in an impressive overall range of up to 330 kilometers.

Safety: Despite concerns about CNG usage in motorcycles, Bajaj assures that safety is not compromised. The Freedom 125 has undergone 11 safety tests, including a demonstration where a truck passed over the bike while the CNG tank remained secure.

Design: Stylistically, the Freedom 125 adopts a modern-retro aesthetic with a round headlamp featuring a daytime running light (DRL). It also boasts the longest seat in its category, measuring 785 mm in length.

Pricing: The base variant with drum brakes is priced at ₹95,000, while the variant with drum brakes and LED headlamps costs ₹1.05 lakh. The top-end variant, equipped with disc brakes, is available at ₹1.10 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).

Initially, the Freedom 125 will be available in Maharashtra and Gujarat, with plans to expand to other states in subsequent quarters. Bajaj aims to attract customers from the 100cc to 125cc segment with this groundbreaking motorcycle

Tata Motors Launches Digital Marketplace for Its Entire Range of Commercial Vehicles

Tata Motors launches Fleet Verse, a digital marketplace for its entire range of commercial vehicles

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicles manufacturer, has recently announced the launch of Tata Motors Fleet Verse – a comprehensive and innovative digital marketplace for Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles. The platform offers features like new vehicle discovery, configuration, acquisition, financing, and is future-proofed to include a range of additional services and features, making Fleet Verse a one-stop digital destination for all commercial vehicle needs.

Built on five key pillars, Fleet Verse is designed to consolidate all aspects of commercial vehicle ownership onto a single platform. The Smart Search Vehicle Discovery, enriched with advanced semantic search features allows users to explore Tata Motors’ full range of commercial vehicles of 900+ models and 3000+ variants.

With Product Configurator, users can key in their business needs, application, and choices to get the most appropriate vehicle recommendation. The 3D Visualizer offers an immersive experience to view vehicle exteriors and interiors in realistic detail. With Vehicle Online Finance, Fleet Verse partners with major financiers to offer fast and smooth finance applications and approvals. Finally, the Vehicle Online Booking feature enables users to book their desired vehicles in a few easy clicks and get prioritized fulfillment, simplifying the acquisition process.

Launching the Fleet Verse platform, Mr. Bharat Bhushan, Head – Digital Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, With the launch of Fleet Verse, we are setting a new benchmark in the commercial vehicle industry by providing customers with an all-encompassing digital platform. We aim to streamline the commercial vehicle ownership experience, ensuring it’s fast, intelligent, safe, and reliable. This initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and enriched customer excellence, driving growth and convenience for both dealers and customers through digitalized value chains. We are excited to bring this transformative experience to our customers and look forward to continuously enhance the platform with new features and capabilities.”

All transactions on Fleet Verse are rendered through Tata Motors’ extensive pan-India dealership network, using a direct-to-dealer payment ecosystem. Serving as a digital bridge, the platform connects dealerships and financiers directly with customers, streamlining processes from enquiry to vehicle delivery. This enables a transparent, prompt and convenient procurement process for customers and Tata Authorised Dealerships —a true win-win scenario.

Hyundai Motor India Submit Draft IPO Papers to SEBI, Plans for the Biggest IPO of India of $3 Billion

Hyundai Motor India has submitted draft papers to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for an initial public offering (IPO).

According to the draft red herring prospectus, Hyundai Motor Company, the Korean auto giant, plans to dilute a 17.50% stake in its Indian arm through an offer-for-sale (OFS). This translates to selling 142,194,700 shares out of its 100% stake, which currently stands at 812,541,100 shares.

The IPO aims to raise approximately USD 3 billion (around Rs 25,000 crore). The expected valuation for Hyundai Motor India is around USD 18 billion (approximately Rs 1,50,390 crore).

If successful, this IPO will be the largest ever in India, surpassing the 2022 LIC IPO, which raised Rs 21,000 crore. Remarkably, this marks the first time in over two decades that an automaker is going public in India. The last carmaker to do so was Maruti Suzuki India back in 2003.

Hyundai has appointed Kotak Mahindra Capital, Citigroup Global Markets India, HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India), J.P. Morgan India, and Morgan Stanley India as book running lead managers for the IPO.

Hyundai Motor India is currently the second-largest carmaker in India by volume, trailing only Maruti. It also holds the position of the second-largest car exporter from India. The company sells 14 models, including popular ones like the Creta, Venue, Verna, and i20.

Going public allows Hyundai to raise substantial capital by selling shares to the public. This infusion of funds can be used for various purposes, such as expanding production capacity, investing in research and development, and strengthening the company's financial position. In addition, by listing on the stock exchange, Hyundai aims to unlock the value of its Indian subsidiary. The IPO provides an opportunity for existing shareholders (including the parent company) to monetize their holdings and realize gains.

Anil Ambani Enters Electric Vehicles Biz as Reliance Infra Incorporates New Reliance EV Pvt Ltd Subsidiary

Anil Ambani's Reliance Infrastructure has recently made a significant move by incorporating a new subsidiary, Reliance EV Private Limited (REVPL), through its subsidiary Reliance Velocity Limited (RVL). This incorporation took place on June 6, 2024, and it's a strategic step into the automobile sector, specifically focusing on electric vehicles.

The authorized and paid-up share capital for REVPL is set at ₹1,00,000, divided into 10,000 equity shares of ₹10 each. The main objective of this new subsidiary is to engage in the manufacturing and dealing of vehicles of various descriptions and components for transport and conveyance, utilizing any nature of fuel.

This development has positively impacted Reliance Infrastructure's market performance, with a notable surge of 9.84% in its share price, reaching ₹184.25. It reflects the growing investor confidence in the company's expansion into the high-growth electric vehicle sector.

Specific plans of Reliance EV Private Limited

Reliance EV Private Limited (REVPL), a subsidiary of Reliance Infrastructure, has outlined several specific plans as part of its foray into the electric vehicle (EV) sector:

• Manufacturing and Dealing: REVPL aims to manufacture and deal in vehicles of every description and components for transport and conveyance using any nature of fuel.
• Infrastructure Development: The company is investing in the installation of a network of EV charging stations and battery swap stations at its mobility stations and other standalone locations.
• Battery Manufacturing: Reliance is also entering the lithium-ion battery manufacturing space with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry, which is crucial for the EV industry.
• Collaborations: There are reports of talks with Tesla for setting up an EV manufacturing plant in India, indicating potential collaborations with global leaders in the EV space.

These initiatives reflect Reliance's commitment to the EV sector and its strategy to become a significant player in the rapidly growing market for sustainable transportation solutions.

Indian EV Market

The Indian Electric Vehicles market is at an inflection point, with EVs accounting for about 5% of total vehicle sales between October 2022 and September 2023. This is expected to reach more than 40% penetration by 2030, driven by strong adoption in both two-wheeler (2W) and three-wheeler (3W) categories.

India's EV sales soared 40% to 1.75 million units in FY2024, with electric two-wheelers (E2Ws) and electric three-wheelers (E3Ws) contributing 94% of the total EV sales. 

Reliance Infrastructure has been working towards becoming debt-free. Anil Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Infrastructure, announced that the company would become debt-free by utilizing funds received from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) following a Supreme Court judgment. The company had a standalone debt of ₹3,808 crore and was expected to receive ₹7,100 crore from DMRC, which would be used to repay the debt.

However, it's important to note that these statements were made in the past, and the current status of the company's debt should be verified with the most recent financial reports or official announcements from Reliance Infrastructure for the latest updates.

Honda and IBM Join Hands for Joint R&D in Semiconductor Chip and To Develop Future SDVs Technologies

Honda and IBM Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Explore Long-term Joint Research and Development of Semiconductor Chip and Software Technologies for Future Software-Defined Vehicles

Agreement outlines intent to research and develop solutions to new challenges related to processing performance, power consumption, and design complexity.

Honda and IBM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to embark on a long-term joint research and development initiative. This collaboration aims to address the challenges and complexities associated with semiconductor chips and software technologies, which are crucial for the next generation of software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

The MOU indicates a shared commitment to explore specialized semiconductor technologies, such as brain-inspired computing and chiplet technologies. These efforts are directed towards enhancing processing performance while reducing power consumption. Additionally, the partnership will look into open and flexible software solutions to manage the increasing design complexity of semiconductors for future SDVs.

This strategic alliance is a response to the anticipated widespread application of intelligence and AI technologies in mobility and other sectors by 2030 and beyond. The goal is to develop next-generation computing technologies that can meet the high processing performance demands and low power consumption requirements of the future, thereby enabling the realization of highly competitive SDVs.

Besides this IBM (Technology) and Honda (Automobile) collaboration, there have been several other notable partnerships in the tech and auto sectors aimed at accelerating innovation and development. Market research firm Gartner has identified that automakers are re-evaluating their approach to hardware sourcing and predicts that by 2025, 50% of the top 10 automotive OEMs will design their own chips.

Tech Mahindra has partnered with Anyverse to accelerate Al adoption in the automotive industry, focusing on synthetic data to train, test, and validate Al systems for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), in-cabin systems, and autonomous vehicle (AV) applications.

Automotive software firm Cariad and Bosch, as well as Argo Al, Ford, and Walmart, have announced partnerships to advance automated and autonomous driving and associated services.

Ford and Volkswagen have agreed to explore working on electric and autonomous vehicles together, while Honda invested in General Motors' driverless unit with a view to launching a fleet of unmanned taxis.

These collaborations reflect a broader trend in the industry where tech companies and automakers are joining forces to navigate the complex landscape of software-defined vehicles and the integration of advanced technologies.

Tata Elxsi Collaborates with Arm to Accelerate the Software-Defined Vehicle Journey for OEMs

Tata Elxsi has collaborated with Arm, the global semiconductor design and software platform company, to offer advanced solutions on the latest Arm® processors, which will help Automotive OEMs and Tier-1s fast track their transition to software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

Automotive architectures are evolving from a distributed and domain-based paradigm to SDV, which includes the use of high-performance computing (HPC). This evolution requires a strategic shift in software development, validation, and deployment philosophies.

To recall, last month Tata Technologies inked an agreement, with BMW Group, to form a Joint Venture (JV) that will focus on strategic software development, including solutions for software-defined vehicles (SDV).

Going back to the Tata-Arm collaboration, Tata Elxsi brings its extensive portfolio of SDV solutions through Tata Elxsi AVENIR, a SOAFEE-based software suite that enables the development, integration, building, testing, and deployment of applications entirely on the cloud with ease for OEMs and suppliers.

By collaborating with Arm, Tata Elxsi will make this software suite available on the latest Arm® Automotive Enhanced (AE) technology that will power the high-performance requirements of next-generation vehicles.

Tata Elxsi AVENIR includes a cloud-native development and validation environment, that enables seamless collaboration to develop and validate SDV functionalities, a Connected Digital Twin Framework, which enables easier adoption and management of digital twins and a pre-integrated subscription management software. This allows end users to subscribe to automotive features on demand.

“The automotive industry is being transformed by a massive increase in software and AI that demands more computing within the efficiency and safety constraints of the vehicle,” said Suraj Gajendra, vice president of products and solutions, Automotive Line of Business, Arm. “By bringing together its SDV solutions with Arm’s latest AE technology, Tata Elxsi is leveraging Arm’s efficient performance and safety leadership to accelerate software development cycles for next-generation vehicles.”

“Intelligent vehicles of the future will be powered by SDV, Data and AI, and it is critical that technology companies collaborate to overcome the growing complexities. We are committed to working with Arm to make Tata Elxsi AVENIR available on the latest generation of Arm cores, which will power future HPCs for SDV while fostering innovation and unlocking the benefits of scale.” said Shaju S, Vice President & Head, Transportation Business.

Tata Elxsi AVENIR integrated on Arm processors will provide automakers with a proven and ready-to-integrate SDV framework and modular software components that work seamlessly across Arm-based high-performance computing architectures and chips. This integration accelerates the “shift-left” in SDV development and validation processes, helping drastically cut down time-to-market and development risks.

In automotive software arena, other global companies that made news are — Infosys, which announced the acquisition of in-tech, to enhance its service offerings in the software-defined vehicles (SDVs) domain. Prior to that, and Wipro, which teamed up with General Motors (GM) and global automotive supplier Magna, to develop a B2B sales platform, called SDVerse, for buying and selling automotive software.

Tata Motors Opens New 1 Lakh Sq. Ft. Commercial Vehicle Spare Parts Warehouse in Guwahati

First-of-its-kind integrated warehouse facility spans 1 lakh square feet, ensures seamless availability of Tata Genuine spare parts in the North East

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced the inauguration of a new commercial vehicle spare parts warehouse in Guwahati. The state-of-the-art facility is fully digitalised and spans across 1 lakh square feet, stocking spare parts for the entire commercial vehicle portfolio. The addition of the new facility will enable the company faster turnaround times and easier availability of spares at Tata Authorised Service Stations in the North East.

Equipped with world-class infrastructure and safety measures, the facility will unlock greater customer value proposition through digitalised warehouse processes. Tata Motors has partnered with Delhivery, India’s largest fully integrated logistics services provider, to leverage its technology-enabled warehousing and transportation solutions. The facility also boasts cutting-edge storage systems catering to diverse needs, including gravity spiral and vertical reciprocating conveyors. Additionally, a designated area for handling medium and heavy vehicle body parts has been integrated to ensure seamless operations.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Vikram Agarwal, Head – Spares and Non Vehicular Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, “The inauguration of the new warehouse in Guwahati is a testament to Tata Motors’ customer-centric approach and will further enhance the vehicle ownership experience by ensuring easy availability of spares. The new warehouse will enable smarter inventory management at Tata Authorized Service Stations in the region, thereby enhancing service quality and vehicle uptime. This new facility brings us closer to our customers in the fast-progressing region of the North East, making logistics more efficient.”

Tata Motors offers an extensive range of sub-1-tonne to 55-tonne cargo vehicles and 10-seater to 51-seater mass mobility solutions, ranging in small commercial vehicles and pickups, trucks, and buses segments to address the evolving needs of logistics and mass mobility segments. The company ensures unparalleled quality and service commitment through its extensive network of 2500+ touchpoints, manned by trained specialists and backed by easy access to Tata Genuine Parts.