India’s Sky Bus Vision: Gadkari Unveils Futuristic Leap in Urban Transit

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has revived India’s futuristic “Sky Bus” vision, showcasing electric pod-based aerial transit as a cheaper, faster, and zero-emission alternative to metros, with potential deployment in corridors like Delhi–Manesar and Mumbai–Pune. The concept emphasizes elevated string-rail systems carrying autonomous pods and double-decker trolleys above congested roads, aiming to cut traffic, reduce logistics costs, and expand urban mobility.

What is the Sky Bus?

हवा में उडनेवाली बस.. (Skybus), यह सिर्फ एक नई Transport Technology नहीं…

यह उस 🇮🇳 भारत की कल्पना है,
जहां Innovation का उद्देश्य सिर्फ गति नहीं, बल्कि जनसेवा, सुविधा और बेहतर भविष्य है।

नई सोच।
नई तकनीक।
नई ऊँचाई।
और गतिशील 🇮🇳भारत का भविष्य - SKY BUS#SKYBUS #Transport… pic.twitter.com/RqSGmlk6nr

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) October 1, 2026

• Elevated guideways: Narrow tracks supported by slender pillars on road medians, minimizing land use.
  
• Autonomous pods: Small electric vehicles for point-to-point commuting.
  
• Double-decker trolleys: Larger suspended carriers for rush-hour capacity.
  
• Dual-use corridors: Passenger transit during peak hours, cargo logistics off-peak.
  
• Zero-emission system: Fully electric, reducing pollution and congestion.
  

Why It Matters for India

• Cost-effective vs metros: Requires less capital and avoids disruptive land acquisition.
  
• Urban congestion relief: Ideal for Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Nagpur, and other metros.
  
• Logistics savings: Could lower freight costs by using elevated corridors for cargo.
  
• Global benchmarking: Inspired by systems tested in Sharjah and other international pilots.
  

Key Announcements Timeline

Event	Year	Highlight
Prayagraj DPR	2022	Feasibility study for Delhi–Prayagraj Skybus
Bengaluru pitch	2022	Proposal to examine Skybus/trolley-bus systems
Amritsar plan	2023	Cable-operated Skybus near Golden Temple
Delhi–Manesar corridor	2026	Active feasibility studies for deployment

Challenges Ahead

• Safety standards: Needs rigorous certification before mass adoption.
  
• Cost viability: Though cheaper than metros, large-scale rollout still requires investment.
  
• Implementation timeline: No official launch dates or funding approvals yet.
  

Outlook

Gadkari frames the Sky Bus as “new thinking, new technology, new heights,” positioning it as part of India’s broader push for innovative, sustainable transport.
If pilot corridors succeed, India could pioneer aerial rapid transit at scale, reshaping urban mobility for both passengers and cargo.

JSW Group Rolls Out AMPSTAR EV Buses & Trucks

JSW Group has officially entered India’s electric commercial mobility market with the launch of its new brand, AMPSTAR, focused on manufacturing electric buses and trucks at scale. The vehicles will be produced at a 90-acre facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, with an annual capacity of 15,000 units.

AMPSTAR is conceived as a comprehensive commercial mobility platform that spans the full customer journey. Beyond the vehicles themselves, it integrates charging networks, operational solutions, financing options, and after‑sales support — enabling fleet operators to transition to electric with confidence. Customers gain flexibility to tailor power outputs between 150 kW and 500 kW, while choosing from outright purchase, leasing, Battery‑as‑a‑Service (BaaS), or other ownership and operating models.

Key Highlights of AMPSTAR Launch

• Brand introduction: AMPSTAR is positioned as a full-stack commercial mobility solution, integrating charging infrastructure, financing, operating solutions, and after-sales support.
• Manufacturing facility: Located at AURIC, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, spread across 90 acres, with capacity for 10,000 buses and 5,000 trucks annually.
• Vehicle range: Electric buses from 7m to 18m (city, intercity, staff, and school transport); trucks starting with a 55-tonne electric tractor-trailer, expanding into tippers and dumpers.
• Power configurations: Options from 150 kW to 500 kW.
• Ownership models: Outright purchase, leasing, and Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS).
• Technology: Double-cooling battery system, high-strength monocoque chassis, proprietary driveline software, and automated truck-cabin assembly lines.

AMPSTAR at a Glance

Feature	Details
Launch Date	September 22–24, 2026
Parent Company	JSW Greentech (est. 2024)
Facility Size	90 acres, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Annual Capacity	15,000 EVs (10,000 buses, 5,000 trucks)
Bus Range	7m – 18m (city, staff, school, intercity)
Truck Range	55-tonne tractor-trailer, expanding to tippers/dumpers
Power Options	150 kW – 500 kW
Ownership Models	Purchase, Leasing, BaaS
Target Market	Private fleets, public-sector enterprises, government tenders
Avg Price (initial)	~₹80 lakh

Strategic Impact

• Energy independence: Sajjan Jindal emphasized AMPSTAR as nation-building, reducing reliance on imported fuel and boosting India’s energy security.
• Government tenders: AMPSTAR buses are expected to play a major role in public transport electrification under schemes like PM E-Drive.
• Economic competitiveness: Lower logistics costs, scalable manufacturing, and reduced operating expenses (up to 33% savings projected).

Challenges & Considerations

• Pricing pressure: At ~₹80 lakh per unit, affordability for smaller fleet operators may be a hurdle.
• Infrastructure readiness: Success depends on rapid deployment of charging depots and service networks.
• Competition: Rivals like Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, and Switch Mobility already have deployments in Indian cities.

Hinduja Group to Invest ₹2,500 Crore in Tamil Nadu Towards Renewables & New Mobility Solutions

• Hinduja Renewables to explore 200 MW+ projects across solar, wind and battery technologies
• Ohm Global Mobility to operationalise electric buses for public transport and expand mobility solutions value chain
• Group to explore opportunities across automotive, financial services, energy, battery charging infrastructure and digital mobility solutions

The Hinduja Group - a 111-year-old transnational conglomerate, today announced plans to invest ₹2,500 crore in Tamil Nadu. The investment will span across the group’s businesses including renewable energy, electric mobility, automotive, financial services, energy, battery charging infrastructure and digital mobility solutions.

As part of the commitment, Mr. Amit Saharia, Group President – Strategy, Hinduja Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mr. Deepak Jacob, IAS, MD & CEO, Guidance Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce Department, Government of Tamil Nadu in the august presence of Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu - Thiru C. Joseph Vijay, Mr. Ashok Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group of Companies (India), Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, Selvi S. Keerthana, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, Dr. S. Vijayakumar, IAS - Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce Department, Government of Tamil Nadu and other senior dignitaries.

A key component of the commitment will be the development of 200 MW+ renewable energy projects by Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Limited (HREPL), spanning solar, wind and battery technologies. The Group will seek land and connectivity support in identified catchment areas, including Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Virudhunagar, Madurai and Coimbatore as it works towards developing these projects.

In the mobility space, OHM Global Mobility Limited will operationalise electric buses for public transport in Tamil Nadu and expand its mobility solutions value chain. The Group will also explore opportunities across automotive, financial services, energy, battery charging infrastructure and digital mobility solutions as part of its broader investment commitment to the state.

Mr. Ashok Hinduja, Chairman, Hinduja Group of Companies (India), said, “Our ₹2,500 crore commitment is a statement of our confidence in Tamil Nadu and our desire to participate in its next phase of growth. With its strong industrial base, talent and renewable energy potential, Tamil Nadu is well positioned to lead India's energy and mobility transition. We look forward to building on our long-standing association with the state and working with the Government of Tamil Nadu to create lasting value through investments in clean energy, electric mobility and other emerging opportunities.”

The proposed investment reflects the Hinduja Group's long-standing presence in Tamil Nadu and its growing focus on clean energy and new mobility. The Group's businesses in the state include Ashok Leyland, Gulf Oil India, Hinduja Leyland Finance, Hinduja Housing Finance, Switch Mobility, Ohm Mobility, Gro Digital and Hinduja Tech, among others.

The latest commitment also builds on the Hinduja Group UK’s ₹7,500 crore MoU signed with the Government of Tamil Nadu in September 2025 for investments in the state's EV ecosystem, spanning battery manufacturing, battery energy storage systems and charging infrastructure. In March 2026, Ashok Leyland broke ground for a ₹500 crore greenfield battery pack manufacturing facility at Pillaipakkam near Chennai, further strengthening the state's electric mobility supply chain.

Tamil Nadu's strong industrial base, skilled talent, manufacturing capabilities and entrepreneurial ecosystem position the state well to play an important role in India's energy transition and the evolution of new mobility. The Hinduja Group looks forward to working closely with the Government of Tamil Nadu to take forward this commitment and contribute to the state's sustainable growth.

About Hinduja Group:

The Hinduja Group is a 111-year-old transnational conglomerate with over 250,000 employees across 100 countries. Founded in 1914 by Late Shri Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, the Group has evolved into one of India’s most respected diversified business houses, with leadership in automotive, financial services, lubricants & specialty chemicals, energy, digital solutions, real estate and healthcare. Through its enterprises, the Group has contributed to India’s industrial evolution and economic progress while building strong global partnerships and market presence worldwide. Anchored in robust governance, disciplined risk management and long-term value creation, the Hinduja Group is guided by its enduring credo, “My Dharma is to work so that I can give,” reflecting a legacy that combines global enterprise with nation-building and community commitment.

India’s eVTOL Leap: Sarla Aviation Achieves DOA Milestone to Build Air Taxis

Bengaluru-based Sarla Aviation has announced that it has secured Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from India’s aviation regulator DGCA. This marks a historic milestone for indigenous electric air taxis and enabling the company to move toward type certification and commercial production.

Achieved in just 3 years, the design approval is said to be the fastest DOA approval in Indian aviation history. The DOA validates the Sarla Aviation's Shunya eVTOL prototype as a credible path toward certification and move from prototypes to certified aircraft, opening doors for commercial eVTOL operations.

The Shunya eVTOL prototype is Sarla Aviation’s flagship six‑seater electric air taxi, designed for short urban trips of 20–30 km at speeds up to 250 km/h, with a payload capacity of around 680 kg—making it India’s highest‑payload eVTOL concept.

Design Organisation Approval (DOA) is the first and most critical regulatory recognition that an aerospace company must secure before it can design, certify, and eventually manufacture aircraft in India. The DGCA approval authorizes Sarla Aviation to take full responsibility for design, testing, and compliance with DGCA safety standards. Equivalent to approvals granted by EASA (Europe) or FAA (US), the DOA aligns India’s aerospace ecosystem with international norms.

Key Highlights

Sarla Aviation is a Bengaluru‑based aerospace startup founded in October 2023 by Adrian Schmidt (CEO), Rakesh Gaonkar (CTO), and later joined by Shivam Chauhan. The company develops indigenous eVTOL aircraft for urban air mobility and has attracted high‑profile investors including Accel, Flipkart co‑founder Binny Bansal, Zerodha co‑founder Nikhil Kamath, and Swiggy co‑founder Sriharsha Majety. 

• Approval Granted: DGCA Design Organisation Approval (DOA) under CAR 21 Subpart J
• Date & Venue: August 8, 2026, at Sarla Aviation’s new headquarters in Bengaluru
• Presented By: Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, alongside Karnataka minister Rizwan Arshad
• Company Age: Just 3 years old, making this the fastest DOA approval in Indian aviation history. 

The name “Sarla Aviation” carries a symbolic tribute to Sarla Thakral, who became India’s first licensed woman pilot in 1936 at the age of 21.

Aircraft & Technology

• Prototype: Shunya, India’s first full-scale indigenous eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft
• Flight Testing: Over 500 flight tests and 18 hours of flight time completed with half-scale demonstrator Sylla
• Next Milestone: Transition flight with the new prototype expected in January 2027

Strategic Partnerships

• Manipal Hospitals & Aeromed Air Ambulance (medical air mobility)
• Prestige Group (real estate integration for vertiports)
• Jio-bp (energy infrastructure)
• Jeppesen ForeFlight (navigation systems)
• Hexcel Composites & Tata Elxsi (materials and engineering support)

Strategic Impact

Factor	Details
Indigenous Aerospace	First Indian startup to achieve DOA this quickly
Urban Mobility	Paves way for electric air taxis in Indian cities
Government Backing	Strong support under Atmanirbhar Bharat vision
Market Outlook	Minister Naidu expects ecosystem to flourish within 2 years

Challenges & Risks

• Certification Path: DOA is only the first step; full type certification is still required
• Infrastructure Needs: Vertiports, charging networks, and pilot training facilities must scale rapidly
• Accessibility: Government insists eVTOLs must serve all regions, not just metros

Sarla Aviation blends global eVTOL expertise with local Indian innovation, aiming to make air taxis affordable for mass mobility. Its founders’ Lilium background ensures technical credibility, while its investors provide strong financial and entrepreneurial backing.

Introduced in September 2024, DGCA’s new eVTOL framework is creating India’s first dedicated certification pathway for VTOL aircraft. Sarla Aviation became the first company approved under this framework, setting precedent for others.

India’s air taxi sector is accelerating: the DGCA has already granted multiple design approvals, with Sarla Aviation leading the charge, and the government targets commercial eVTOL services by 2028 in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi.

Earlier this month, Air India, Japan's SkyDrive and Suzuki announced partnership to explore eVTOL medical logistics in India, aiming to revolutionize emergency healthcare transport.

Besides Sarla Aviation, India’s air taxi ecosystem includes startups like Autosync Aviation (Bengaluru), The ePlane Company (Chennai, IIT‑Madras incubated), and InterGlobe–Archer’s partnership for the Midnight eVTOL, all aiming for commercial rollout by 2027–28.

India Accelerates Into Global EV Leadership: From Local Innovation to Worldwide Impact

India’s electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer a distant dream—it’s unfolding at speed, reshaping mobility, industry, and climate strategy. Over the past decade, EV adoption has surged 46 times since 2016, turning India into a rising global hub for clean mobility.

Electric mobility has rapidly evolved into a cornerstone of India’s economic growth, energy resilience, and sustainable future. Since 2016, EV sales have skyrocketed nearly 46 times, reflecting a decisive consumer shift. Exports too have surged—from just USD 1.2 million in 2020 to USD 84 million in 2024—cementing India’s position as a rising hub in the global EV landscape.

Strategic government initiatives such as the National Mission on Manufacturing, the PLI Scheme for Automobile & Auto Components, and the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E‑DRIVE) are driving the creation of a self‑reliant, future‑ready eMobility ecosystem.  

The Shift to Electric Mobility

Electric mobility is now central to India’s climate and economic vision. EVs are reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports, strengthening energy security, and cutting urban air pollution. Government incentives, technological progress, and consumer awareness have made EVs a national priority.

• National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP 2020) – Roadmap for adoption and manufacturing.
• FAME India scheme – Incentives for buyers, charging infrastructure, and manufacturing.
• EV adoption grew from 0.08% in FY15-16 to 8.26% in FY25-26.

Types of EVs

• Battery EVs (BEVs) – Fully electric.
• Hybrid EVs (HEVs) & Plug-in HEVs – Engine + motor, rechargeable packs.
• Fuel Cell EVs (FCEVs) – Electricity from chemical energy.

EV Growth Story

EV adoption in India has surged dramatically, rising from just 0.08% in FY15‑16 to 8.26% in FY25‑26. What began with a modest base of around 50,000 vehicles sold in 2016 has expanded into 2.3 million units by 2025—a staggering 46‑fold growth. This pace has outstripped global trends, where EV sales grew about 20 times over the same period, from 918,000 in 2016 to 18.78 million in 2024. Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the country’s largest EV market, accounting for more than 400,000 units or 18% of national sales, followed by Maharashtra with 266,000 units (12%) and Karnataka with 200,000 units (9%).  

• From 50,000 units in 2016 to 2.3 million in 2025.
• Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka emerged as top markets.
• Exports rose from USD 1.2 million (2020) to USD 84 million (2024).

Expanding Infrastructure

• 52,718 public charging stations (July 2026), with 16,561 fast chargers.
• Hyundai, Tata expanding ultra-fast networks across highways and cities.
• e-Amrit tool helps locate charging stations nationwide.

India’s EV charging infrastructure is expanding at an unprecedented pace. As of July 2026, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) reports that out of 52,718 public charging stations nationwide, 16,561 are equipped with fast‑charging facilities.

The government’s e‑Amrit platform further simplifies access by helping users locate nearby charging points. Industry leaders are also accelerating this build‑out—Hyundai Motor India, for example, added 11 ultra‑fast charging stations in 2024 across major cities including Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Gurugram, and Bangalore, as well as along key highway corridors.  

India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI)

Launched in 2025 by NITI Aayog, IEMI tracks states’ progress across electrification, infrastructure, and innovation. Delhi, Maharashtra, Chandigarh are frontrunners with mature EV ecosystems.

Domestic Manufacturing & Startups

• OEMs like Tata Motors, Mahindra, TVS, Bajaj Auto scaling R&D and gigafactories.
• Global players like Tesla, VinFast, Suzuki investing in India.
• Suzuki’s “e VITARA” (2025) marked India’s entry into global BEV exports.
• 400+ EV startups driving innovation in batteries, charging, and AI mobility.

India is steadily transforming from an assembly‑driven market into a full‑fledged EV manufacturing powerhouse. Backed by a rapidly expanding supplier ecosystem, domestic production now spans critical components such as battery packs, motors, drivetrains, power electronics, wiring systems, and charging equipment. Leading OEMs including Tata Motors, Mahindra, TVS, and Bajaj Auto are scaling operations through investments in R&D, gigafactories, and dedicated EV platforms.

Over 400 EV startups are contributing to breakthroughs in battery recycling, AI‑enabled mobility, and charging solutions.

India’s role in EV supply chains is expanding, with exports of vehicles and components reaching USD 84 million in 2024, and Suzuki’s “e VITARA” becoming the first Made‑in‑India BEV exported to 100+ countries.

At the same time, global players like VinFast, Tesla, and major Korean and Japanese battery manufacturers are exploring large‑scale production in India. This wave of expansion is accelerating localization, reducing costs, and firmly embedding India within global EV supply chains.

Investment & Policy Push

• India’s EV ecosystem raised USD 1.4 billion in FY25.
• PM E-DRIVE Scheme – ₹10,900 crore, supporting 28 lakh EVs.
• PLI Auto Scheme – ₹2,377 crore incentives for EV manufacturers.
• PLI ACC Scheme – ₹18,100 crore for battery manufacturing, 50 GWh capacity target.
• PM e-Bus Sewa – 10,000 buses via PPP model.

Climate & Future Outlook

• Targeting 30% EV penetration by 2030.
• Cutting 1 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030.
• 1.32 million charging stations by 2030.
• EV market projected to grow from USD 3.71 billion (2025) to USD 191.04 billion (2034).
• CAFE III & IV norms (2027–2037) to enforce stricter CO₂ limits.

Conclusion

India stands at the threshold of a transformative mobility era. With surging demand, expanding manufacturing, and robust policy support, the country is poised to become a global EV hub. The road ahead will be defined by deeper supply chain integration, battery localization, and charging infrastructure—cementing India’s leadership in the clean mobility revolution.

Greaves Electric Mobility Strengthens EV Portfolio With Fully Subscribed ₹530 Crore Rights Issue

• Rights issue backed by Greaves Cotton and Abdul Latif Jameel Green Mobility Solutions reinforces long term confidence of the shareholders in GEML’s growth strategy
• Highlights GEML’s industry-beating performance and strong momentum across electric two- and three-wheelers, while reinforcing its commitment to supporting India’s clean mobility goals.

Greaves Electric Mobility Limited (GEML), the e-mobility business of Greaves Cotton Limited and one of India’s leading electric mobility companies consisting of brands Ampere and Greaves 3 Wheelers, announced an additional equity infusion of INR 530 crore through a Rights Issue. The investment is fully subscribed by the existing shareholders in proportion to their existing shareholding, including Greaves Cotton Limited (GCL) and Abdul Latif Jameel Green Mobility Solutions (ALJ), reaffirming their continued confidence in GEML’s strong momentum and its role in advancing India’s clean mobility transition. The investment reinforces the long-term commitment of GEML’s anchor shareholders.

The capital infusion is aimed at strengthening the GEML’s next phase of growth towards building Next Generation products, Battery Management Systems, Power Trains and New age Technology development.

Speaking on the investment, Mr. Karan Thapar, Chairman, Greaves Cotton Limited, said “GCL’s strong balance sheet enables us to support organic growth and selectively invest behind businesses with clear long-term potential. Our continued investment in Greaves Electric Mobility reflects our confidence in its strategic direction, execution capabilities, and role in advancing India’s clean mobility transition. With its manufacturing footprint, engineering depth, expanding portfolio and focus on Building for Bharat, GEML is well placed to sustain its market-outperforming growth and create enduring value.”

The investment will strengthen GEML’s electric two-wheeler and three-wheeler portfolio, deepen technology development and support execution in a competitive, fast-adopting EV market. While GEML has presently decided not to avail itself of the SEBI extension for the proposed Offer, it remains committed to pursuing a public listing at an appropriate time, subject to market conditions, regulatory approvals, and other relevant considerations.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Vikas Singh, Managing Director, Greaves Electric Mobility Limited, said “We are grateful for the full subscription of the rights issue by our existing shareholders. Their continued support reflects strong confidence in Greaves Electric Mobility’s vision, strategy, and execution momentum. As India’s electric mobility market moves towards mass adoption, we remain focused on supporting the country’s clean mobility goals through differentiated products Built for Bharat, stronger technology capabilities, and reliable mobility solutions for our customers. This capital will help us accelerate innovation and further strengthen our product pipeline.”

The investment comes at a time when Greaves Electric Mobility continues to deliver industry-beating performance across both the electric two-wheeler and three-wheeler segments through a growing portfolio of products, an expanding retail and service network, and continued investments in engineering, manufacturing, and customer experience. Its strategic focus remains anchored in democratizing smart and sustainable mobility while delivering solutions that are Built for Bharat.

SWITCH Mobility Secures 650 Electric Bus Order for Mumbai and Pune Under Pm E‑drive Phase II

SWITCH Mobility, a global manufacturer of electric buses and part of the Hinduja Group, has secured an order for 650 electric buses from Sai Green Projects Pvt. Ltd. The order will support public transport deployments across Mumbai and Pune under the Government of India’s PM E-Drive Phase II Tender.

As part of the order, SWITCH Mobility will supply 9m electric buses under the CESL PM E-Drive Phase II tender, secured by Sai Green Projects Pvt. Ltd. as the selected operator. These AC and Non-AC buses will serve Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) and Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) respectively. The collaboration is a major step in the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable public transportation in two of Maharashtra's largest urban centres.

Mr. Ganesh Mani, CEO, SWITCH Mobility, said, "The deployment of 650 electric buses is a significant step towards India’s ambition to reduce emissions, improve operating economics, and modernise public transport systems. At SWITCH Mobility, we remain focused on delivering reliable and efficient electric mobility solutions that enable operators to transition towards cleaner public transport while ensuring a superior passenger experience. With a growing product portfolio, we are well positioned to support the evolving mobility requirements of cities across India."

“We are pleased to partner with Sai Green Projects Pvt. Ltd. in supporting large-scale deployments in Mumbai and Pune under the PM E-Drive initiative. This is the beginning of a long-term partnership where we look forward to covering many green miles together,” he added.

Mr. RG Venkataraman, CCO, SWITCH Mobility, said, “This development is a strong testament to our commercial proposition and our ability to deliver at scale for operators across the country. At SWITCH Mobility, we go way beyond manufacturing great products. Our focus is to make sustainability commercially viable to the operators so they can run efficient, profitable fleets.”

Mr. Vikas Gupta, CEO, Sai Green Projects Pvt. Ltd. said, "Sustainable living is at the core of what we do at Sai Green Projects. We are proud to partner with a leading OEM like Switch Mobility to take India's vision for clean, efficient, and future-ready public mobility forward. We are confident that these electric buses will enhance the everyday experience of commuters in Mumbai and Pune.”

With over 185 million green kilometres covered globally and 2,500+ electric buses deployed in India, SWITCH Mobility continues to scale its presence across multiple segments, including city, intercity and specialised applications.

Backed by advanced connected vehicle technology, a growing product portfolio and a robust service network, SWITCH Mobility remains committed to accelerating India's transition towards cleaner, smarter and future-ready public transportation.

The ePlane Company Completes Full‑Scale e200X eVTOL Assembly, Enters Ground Testing for Passenger, Cargo, and Air Ambulance Markets

• The completed aircraft now enters ground and flight testing, the phase that leads to certification and first operations.
• A single platform engineered for three markets, passenger air taxi, urban cargo and air ambulance, the e200X is backed by a board that includes Vishesh Rajaram (Speciale Invest), Eash Sundaram (JetBlue) and Aditya Ghosh (Homage, Akasa Air, formerly IndiGo)

The ePlane Company has completed assembly of its full-scale electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the e200X, integrating the aircraft’s core subsystems into a single structure. The completed prototype, designated PT-01, moves the e200X from design and simulation into the physical testing phase that precedes flight. The aircraft is designed as one airframe serving three markets: a passenger air taxi, an urban cargo carrier, and an air ambulance.

A completed full-scale airframe is a decisive stage in any aircraft programme, because it establishes what simulation cannot. It validates that the design can be manufactured at full size, that the tooling and supply chain to build it are in place and functioning, and that the subsystems integrate physically into a single structure. It is the stage that separates designing an aircraft from being able to test one.

The e200X will now enter ground testing, in which the structure and onboard systems are subjected to aerodynamic and mechanical loads on specialised equipment at ePlane’s facility, followed by flight testing and the pursuit of Type Certification. Developing a full-scale eVTOL is among the most demanding challenges in contemporary aerospace, and only a small number of programmes worldwide have carried a design through to a complete, full-scale aircraft. With the e200X, ePlane is among them.

The e200X has been designed and assembled at ePlane’s own facilities, with its major systems, the propellers, the airframe structure, the landing gear and the battery pack, developed in-house rather than imported as finished assemblies. In a category where many developers rely on a global supply chain, that vertical integration gives ePlane unusual control over performance, cost and iteration speed.

The company has reached this stage on roughly 21 million US dollars raised to date, a fraction of what many international eVTOL programmes have consumed. Capital-efficient engineering is central to ePlane’s strategy.

Independent analysts value the global eVTOL market at roughly 1.3 billion US dollars in 2023 and project it to reach the 20-to-30-billion-dollar range by 2030, with the broader urban air mobility market on a similar trajectory.

Prof. Satya Chakravarthy, Founder of The ePlane Company said –

We set out to build an electric aircraft to a world-class benchmark, engineered and manufactured in depth in India for the World. We deliberately designed the e200X to be compact, because an aircraft that asks a city to rebuild itself around it will not solve the problem it was built to solve. The same airframe can move people as an air taxi, carry goods as a cargo aircraft, and save lives as an air ambulance, and it can do all three using the infrastructure cities already have. That combination of real capability and capital efficiency is how we intend to compete, and win, in markets around the world.”

ePlane’s ambition is matched by the people behind it. Its board brings together leaders who have built and scaled some of aviation’s most successful businesses: Vishesh Rajaram, Founder and Managing Director of lead investor Speciale Invest, Eash Sundaram, former Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Technology Officer at JetBlue and founder of JetBlue Technology Ventures; and Aditya Ghosh, who scaled IndiGo into India’s largest airline and went on to co-found Akasa Air; Founder Prof. Satya Chakravarthy and CFO Jayakrishnan R anchor the company’s deep-technology and engineering foundation.

The problems the e200X addresses are shared across the world’s major cities. The World Health Organization estimates that road traffic crashes kill about 1.19 million people globally each year, and survival from time-critical emergencies depends heavily on the golden hour, the window after a trauma or cardiac event in which intervention most determines the outcome.

India, one of the largest emerging markets for urban air mobility, illustrates the gap acutely, recording 172,890 road-accident deaths in 2023 and ambulance availability well below WHO norms. An aircraft that lifts a patient, a passenger or a payload above congestion addresses the single variable, time, that ground mobility cannot.

ePlane will unveil the completed e200X publicly in the coming weeks and then begin a ground testing campaign, followed by flight testing of the full-scale aircraft, building on the subscale prototypes it has already flown. It will pursue Type Certification with India’s DGCA, the first regulator to accept an eVTOL into its certification process, and then seek international validations to open export markets.

First operations will begin with early commercial applications and scale across the passenger, cargo and medical markets as certification milestones are met. The programme has already drawn international recognition: ePlane, incubated at IIT Madras, is among the Indian deep-technology ventures showcased at Bharat Innovates 2026, inaugurated in France in June 2026, and was recently featured in NVIDIA founder Jensen Huang’s GTC keynote in Taipei.

EBG Group Inaugurates Vajram Electric, an Integrated Manufacturing Platform for 11 Business Verticals

• The Hyderabad facility will expand from 25,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. over the next year, supporting EBG Group’s diversified verticals like electric mobility, rehabilitation technology etc.
• Backed by an initial investment of ₹25 Cr, the facility is expected to generate over 450 direct and indirect jobs.

EBG Group, one of India’s fastest-growing multi-sector business groups, has inaugurated Vajram Electric, a centralised manufacturing, assembly and distribution hub in Hyderabad, a move expected to generate over 450 direct and indirect jobs while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities and integrated supply chains. The facility will expand from 25,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. over the next year and support 11 of the Group’s business verticals through a unified multi-brand production platform. The project has been launched with an initial investment of ₹25 crore, with further expansion investments planned over the next phase of growth.

Brands

ACER Mobility

ebikeGo

Hard Rock

Nonstop Mobility & Rehab Store

Mexple (Nonstop)

Whill Mobility

Nuvun Pods

Daewoo Appliances

Brillen Space Engineering

Adhira & Appa Coffee

Tarzan Nature Retreat

Vajram Electric will function as a production and logistics hub for EBG Group’s diversified portfolio spanning electric mobility, rehabilitation technology, consumer electronics, construction, F&B infrastructure and sustainable hospitality. The company currently operates an advanced assembly facility on Hyderabad’s Outer Ring Road and functions as a fully integrated production and warehousing campus designed for scale, efficiency and faster market turnaround.

This is a defining milestone for EBG Group and a decisive step towards building a manufacturing-led growth engine. Vajram Electric is the strategic backbone of our entire operations. We are creating a platform that can support multiple high-growth sectors at scale. By centralising manufacturing, assembly and distribution, we are building an ecosystem that delivers speed, efficiency and consistency, enabling us to compete not just in India but in global markets with confidence,” said Dr Irfan Khan, Founder of EBG Group.

Hari Kiran, Co-founder, EBG Group, added, “Integrating manufacturing, warehousing and distribution under one framework gives us tighter operational control, better cost optimisation and faster turnaround times. It also ensures uniform quality across all our brands while allowing us to scale in a structured and sustainable manner. It is being built around zero-waste manufacturing, embedding sustainability into core operations as capacity scales and reinforcing EBG Group’s commitment to responsible growth.”

The upgraded facility is engineered to deliver significant production capacity, strengthening the Group’s ability to meet rising domestic demand while building export-ready manufacturing capabilities. The investment will be deployed in a phased manner towards automation, capacity expansion and systems integration, aimed at improving efficiency, reducing turnaround time and ensuring consistent quality across product lines.

Vajram Electric’s operations are supported by a growing national supply chain network, with logistics hubs in Ludhiana, Pune and Ahmedabad, and a fourth facility in Manesar set to become operational shortly. This network is complemented by a multi-channel distribution strategy, combining e-commerce with an expanding offline retail footprint to strengthen market access and last-mile delivery. The expansion aligns with India’s broader push towards strengthening domestic manufacturing and EV ecosystems, with increasing focus on reducing import dependence and building globally competitive supply chains. Leveraging its integrated, multi-brand platform, EBG Group aims to capture approximately 10% of India’s EV manufacturing market over the next five years.

About EBG Group

EBG Group is a multi-sector Indian conglomerate with a diversified presence across Mobility, Health, Realty, Lifestyle, Food, Services, Technology, and Education. From sustainable electric vehicles and physiotherapy-led wellness solutions to smart housing, hospitality, and traditional food experiences, EBG builds brands that combine innovation, sustainability, and human purpose. The Group’s Powerhouse hubs align business excellence with its core vision: People • Planet • Progress.

About Vajram Electric

Vajram Electric is the centralised manufacturing and logistics arm of EBG Group, founded in 2022 and headquartered in Hyderabad, India. Operating across imports, assembly, warehousing, and pan-India distribution, Vajram Electric serves as the production backbone for 11 EBG Group brands.

Future of Mobility: MGDP 6.0 Opens Applications for Start-ups in AI, EV, and Sustainability

• Innovation in Automobile’ is the central theme of Season 6.0 of MG Developers Program & Grant
• Applications open today; Entries close April 30, 2026
• Demo Day is scheduled for June 1, 2026
• MGDP has received over 1550 entries across its first five seasons

JSW MG Motor India today announced the launch of Season 6.0 of the MG Developer Program & Grant (MGDP) in collaboration with DPIIT, reaffirming its commitment to accelerating innovation and strengthening India’s start-up ecosystem. Building on the successes of the previous seasons, the sixth edition of MGDP is themed on ‘Innovation in Automotive’ and will focus on future-ready innovations.

Season 6.0 encourages start-ups to showcase their innovations under various categories, such as Innovation in Logistics and Supply Chain, AI in Automotive, V2X Intelligence, Sustainability & Circular Economy, Innovation in Vehicle Technology, Connected Services, Innovation in EV Charging Infrastructure, and Innovation in Manufacturing. An esteemed jury panel comprising senior leaders and distinguished experts from leading corporates, academic institutions and industry bodies will evaluate the entries based on their uniqueness and real-world applicability.

Speaking on the occasion, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India said, “Innovation remains the cornerstone of JSW MG Motor India’s vision for India, and we remain committed to nurturing this value through multiple initiatives. This new edition of MGDP aims to empower ambitious start-ups working across new energy, autonomous, and connected mobility technologies. Together, we hope to shape a future where technology meaningfully enhances every customer’s experience.”

Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, said, “Startup India, DPIIT is committed to supporting initiatives that foster collaboration, create opportunities for young talent and encourage India-specific innovation. We are delighted to partner with JSW MG Motor India for the new season of MGDP. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to nurturing India’s future workforce and fostering a culture of practical problem-solving.”

Selected participants will receive mentoring from JSW MG Motor India and its ecosystem partners, along with access to development support, opportunities for testing, and consideration for grant assistance at the jury’s discretion. Applications for the sixth season are live from today, with the final date for submission being April 30, 2026. Shortlisted teams will be mentored ahead of Demo Day on June 1, 2026.

Launched in 2019 in partnership with MG partner companies and tech giants, the MG Developer Program & Grant aims to nurture ground-breaking solutions within the Indian urban mobility space.

The program received over 1550 entries and saw 290+ teams being shortlisted in the first round across seasons 1 to 5. The teams were provided mentorship by 100+ experts, including JSW MG Motor India’s leadership and its technology ecosystem partners, making it the largest mentoring program in the automotive segment. A total of 51 start-ups have already been shortlisted by MG to date as part of MGDP and Grant, and they are working on various pilot projects.

MGDP 6.0 website is live! https://www.mgmotor.co.in/world-of-mg/events/mg-developer-program-grant-6

Startup India Application Link: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/accelerator-program.html?applicationId=69ae994fe4b0b7e5b72b9dd4

About JSW MG Motor India

SAIC Motor, a global Fortune 500 company with a presence in over 100 countries and JSW Group (India's leading conglomerate with interests across B2B and B2C sectors) formed a joint venture - JSW MG Motor India Pvt. Ltd. in 2023. The joint venture aims to build a smart and sustainable automotive ecosystem while staying focused on developing a diverse portfolio of vehicles to give car buyers better access to advanced technologies and futuristic products with attractive value propositions. JSW MG Motor India Pvt. Ltd. is committed to introducing world-class technology, strengthening the manufacturing landscape, bringing the best of innovation across its business operations, and generating significant employment opportunities through extensive localisation.

About Morris Garages

Founded in the UK in 1924, Morris Garages vehicles were world-famous for their sports cars, roadsters, and cabriolet series. MG vehicles were much sought after by celebrities, including British Prime Ministers and even the British Royal Family, for their styling, elegance, and spirited performance. The MG Car Club, set up in 1930 at Abingdon in the UK, has thousands of loyal fans, making it one of the world’s largest clubs for a car brand. MG has evolved into a modern, futuristic, and innovative brand over the last 100 years. Its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat, has an annual production capacity of 1,00,000 plus vehicles and 6,000 direct and indirect employees. Driven by its vision of CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric) mobility, the innovative automaker has augmented across-the-board ‘experiences’ within the automobile segment today. It has introduced several ‘firsts’ in India, including India’s first Internet SUV – MG Hector, India’s first Pure Electric Internet SUV – MG ZS EV, India’s first Autonomous (Level 1) Premium SUV – MG Gloster, the Astor- India’s first SUV with personal AI assistant and Autonomous (Level 2) technology, MG Comet – The Street-Smart Car, India’s first Intelligent CUV, MG Windsor, World’s Fastest MG – MG Cyberster and The Presidential Limousine – MG M9.

PM E-DRIVE Scheme Brings ₹10,900 Crore For Electric Vehicles

The PM E-DRIVE scheme is India’s flagship EV promotion program with a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore (2024–2026), extended till 2028. Funds are primarily allocated for demand incentives on electric two- and three-wheelers, as well as for e-buses, charging infrastructure, and testing facilities. As of February 2025, ₹423.23 crore had already been spent.

Key Financial Details of PM E-DRIVE

• Total Outlay: ₹10,900 crore (initially for 2024–2026, now extended till 2028)
• Expenditure till Feb 2025: ₹423.23 crore
• Subsidies (Demand Incentives): ₹422 crore (for e-2W, e-3W, e-rickshaws, e-carts, L5 category vehicles)
• Administrative & IEC Expenses: ₹1.23 crore
• Fund Allocation Split (Extended Scheme):
• ₹3,679 crore → Demand incentives for EVs (2W, 3W, some 4W)
• ₹7,171 crore → Electric buses, charging infrastructure, and testing facilities

Scheme Structure

Component	Allocation	Purpose
Demand Incentives	₹3,679 crore	Subsidies for e-2W, e-3W, limited 4W
E-Buses & Infra	₹7,171 crore	Procurement of e-buses, charging infra, testing
Admin & IEC	~₹1.23 crore (spent)	Awareness campaigns, scheme management

Implementation Highlights

• Launch Date: 29 Sept 2024 (replacing EMPS-2024)
• Ministry: Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI)
• Coverage: Nationwide, with focus on OEMs and fleet operators
• Targets:
• Nearly 2.9 lakh e-3Ws (L5 category) supported by Dec 2025
• Subsidies for e-2W and e-3W to end by March 31, 2026

Risks & Considerations

• Unused Funds: Nearly half of the ₹10,900 crore allocation remained unutilized by mid-2025, prompting extension till 2028
• Subsidy Cut-off: Demand incentives for smaller EVs (2W, 3W) will stop after March 2026, shifting focus to buses and infrastructure
• OEM Dependency: Claims beyond target numbers or after deadlines (e.g., post-Dec 2025 for e-3Ws) are not entertained

Takeaway for Gurugram Context

For Gurugram and NCR, where EV adoption is accelerating due to pollution concerns and fleet electrification (delivery, ride-hailing), the PM E-DRIVE scheme provides subsidies until March 2026 for two- and three-wheelers, while longer-term funds will prioritize e-buses and charging infra till 2028. Businesses in logistics, quick commerce, and public transport stand to benefit most.

Delhi Flags Off First Batch of SWITCH EiV12 Electric Buses in Landmark 950-Unit Rollout

SWITCH Mobility, a global leader in electric buses and light commercial vehicles and part of the Hinduja Group, today flagged off the SWITCH EiV12 – Low Floor Electric City Buses from its landmark 950-unit order for the Department of Transport, Delhi, awarded under the CESL tender.

These buses were flagged off by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Smt. Rekha Gupta, in the presence of Dr. Pankaj Singh, Hon’ble Transport Minister; Sh. Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (North East Delhi); Sh. Surya Prakash Khatri, Hon’ble MLA (Timarpur); Ms. Niharika Rai, Commissioner, Department of Transport, Delhi; Sh. Prince Dhawan, Managing Director, DTC, Delhi; Dr. Chadda, Senior Advisor, Hinduja Group; R.G. Venkataraman, Chief Commercial Officer, SWITCH Mobility; and Saurabh Chaudhary, CEO, Ohm Global Mobility. The occasion marks a key milestone in Delhi’s transition towards sustainable urban mobility.

Manufactured at SWITCH’s state-of-the-art facility, these buses embody the company’s ‘Make in India for the World’ vision, bringing together cutting-edge global technology and Indian manufacturing excellence.

The ultra-low-floor SWITCH EiV12 platform, designed for Delhi’s demanding urban transit needs, offers comfortable seating for 39 passengers. These 12-meter electric buses provide an impressive range to seamlessly meet daily schedules and are equipped with advanced safety and passenger convenience features, including a wheelchair ramp for differently-abled passengers, CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and GPS tracking. Ergonomically optimized and intelligently engineered, the SWITCH EiV12 ensures global standards in performance, durability, safety, and superior passenger comfort.

RG Venkataraman, Chief Commercial Officer of SWITCH Mobility, said, "We are delighted to commence delivery of our SWITCH EiV12 electric buses to Delhi, reinforcing the capital's leadership position in sustainable urban transportation. These Low Floor Electric City Buses, engineered with advanced global technology and manufactured with pride in India, will significantly enhance Delhi's public transport ecosystem while contributing to cleaner air and improved quality of life for millions of commuters. This deployment underscores our commitment to empowering Indian cities with intelligent, efficient, and eco-friendly transportation solutions that drive progress towards a more sustainable future."

The SWITCH EiV12 exemplifies cutting-edge design tailored for urban city commutes, offering a smart and lightweight solution that enhances metropolitan mobility. Its streamlined ultra-low-floor design ensures easy passenger boarding and a smooth ride through Delhi's bustling streets. The vehicles’ efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface enables rapid recharging while optimizing depot spaces. Powered by SWITCH iON, the proprietary telematics system, the buses offer real-time vehicle health monitoring, Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS), and efficient fleet management capabilities.

Prioritizing passenger safety, each bus is equipped with an advanced Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS). The floor-mounted LFP batteries contribute to a lower centre of gravity, ensuring excellent vehicle stability and enhanced safety during operations.

The deployment of these electric buses aligns with the Delhi Government's vision to maintain its position as the Indian city with the highest number of electric buses. This rollout is expected to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, improve air quality, and provide safer, more comfortable commutes for Delhi's millions of daily bus users.

Tata Motors and UBS’s EV Arm Ink Landmark Deal for 100 Magna Electric Coaches

In a major boost to India’s intercity electric mobility landscape, Tata Motors, the country’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Green Energy Mobility Solutions Pvt. Ltd (GEMS), the newly formed electric mobility arm of Universal Bus Services (UBS). The agreement will see Tata Motors supply 100 state-of-the-art Magna EV intercity coaches to GEMS, marking a significant step in UBS’s transition to sustainable transport.

A Strategic Leap at PV Expo 2.0

The MoU was formalized at the Passenger Vehicle Expo 2.0 in Chennai, where Tata Motors showcased its latest innovations in commercial passenger mobility. Among the highlights were the all-electric Magna EV and the LPO 1822, both engineered for superior performance, enhanced passenger comfort, and best-in-class total cost of ownership.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, alongside senior government delegates and members of the All Omni Bus Owners Association (AOBOA), underscoring the state’s commitment to fostering green mobility solutions.

UBS Accelerates Its Green Transition

Universal Bus Services, a leading premium intercity travel brand in South India, is known for its customer-centric approach and operational reliability. With the launch of GEMS, UBS is pivoting toward electric mobility, aiming to deploy advanced EV coaches and supporting infrastructure across its network.

The 100 Magna EV coaches from Tata Motors will serve as the backbone of this transition, offering long-range capabilities, fast-charging support, and a zero-emission footprint tailored for intercity operations.

Industry Impact and Future Outlook

This partnership signals a broader shift in India’s commercial transport sector, where legacy operators are increasingly aligning with OEMs to adopt electric fleets. For Tata Motors, the deal reinforces its leadership in the EV space and its commitment to delivering scalable, sustainable solutions for passenger mobility.

With Tamil Nadu emerging as a hub for EV innovation and manufacturing, the collaboration between Tata Motors and GEMS is expected to catalyze further investments in green infrastructure and fleet electrification across the region.

Hyundai Motor Opens CoE for Future Mobility at IIT Delhi

Hyundai Motor Group (the Group), on Thursday, announced the opening of the Hyundai Center of Excellence (CoE) for future mobility technology (Hyundai CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi.

This initiative is establishing a joint research system to advance future mobility technologies focused on electrification and battery systems, reflecting the Group’s commitment to driving innovation tailored to the needs of Indian customers.

To recall, it was in December last year when Hyundai Motor announced partnership with three IITs – IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay and IIT Madras.

The Group has selected nine joint research projects in collaboration with IITs as part of its long-term academic-industrial cooperation framework. These projects cover key focus areas including:

• Battery cells, systems and testing
• Battery management systems (BMS)
• Energy density enhancement
• Safety
• Durability
• Diagnostic technologies.

The initiative also explores new materials and system components, driving forward innovation in battery design and performance.

Hyundai Motor Group officials – including Heuiwon Yang, President and Head of the R&D Division; Unsoo Kim, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor India Limited; and Chang Hwan Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of the Electrification Energy Solutions Tech Unit – attended the main agreement ceremony held in New Delhi. They were joined by IIT representatives, including Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi; Dean Manu Santhanam from IIT Madras; and Dean Sachin C. Patwardhan from IIT Bombay.

The Steering Committee of the Hyundai CoE will be co-chaired by EVP Chang Hwan Kim and Dean Bijaya Ketan Panigrahi at IIT Delhi.

“We’re excited to work with India’s brightest minds in battery innovation,” said Heuiwon Yang, President and Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group. “Collaborating with leading researchers and IIT professors through the Hyundai Center of Excellence for future mobility technology will help us develop technologies tailored to India while contributing to its economy and society. We see this partnership with India’s academia and industry as a foundation for building a sustainable future together.”

Future Technology Research

In parallel, the Group is expanding its Future Technology Research Program, which has been in operation since 2021. Unlike the general operation methods of academic-industrial projects, the program allows university faculty members to propose their own research topics, which are then reviewed and selected by the Group.

Previously limited to domestic universities and Korean professors at overseas institutions, the program has been expanded to include foreign faculties – beginning with professors at IITs. This marks a significant step in globalizing the Group’s academic collaboration efforts.

Starting with IIT Delhi, the Hyundai CoE will expand in phases to build an India-wide network of experts, connecting leading researchers and institutions across the country.

Currently, the Group collaborates with three IIT universities (IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and IIT Madras), engaging around 30 professors. By December 2025, it aims to expand its reach to 10 universities in India, including non-IIT institutions, with approximately 100 professors participating.

The Group is organizing a range of initiatives to further strengthen this collaborative ecosystem. These include:

• Technology exchange forums bringing together experts from both India and Korea
• Global conferences on battery and EV technologies to share insights on trends and policies
• Policy dialogue sessions that engage key stakeholders from the Indian government, academia, and industry to discuss the future of the mobility and electrification sectors

As the Group’s first academic-industrial collaboration model for a growth economy, the Hyundai CoE is set to become a central hub for research and innovation. It will play a key role in advancing future mobility solutions while fostering a strong, localized innovation base tailored to the evolving needs of the Indian market.

e-Bike Maker Wardwizard Reduces Price of Joy e-bike Models to Boost EV Adoption in the country

Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited, one of India’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers under the brand Joy e-bike and Joy e-rik, has announced a significant price reduction across a range of its electric two-wheeler models. This strategic move aims to make electric mobility more accessible and accelerate EV adoption across the country.

The company has slashed prices by up to ₹13,000/- on selected models to strengthen its market presence and attract a broader base of EV consumers. The revised pricing applies to models including WOLF 31AH, GEN NEXT 31AH, GEN NEXT NANU PLUS, WOLF PLUS, GEN hyNEXT NANU ECO and WOLF ECO.

Model	Earlier Prices	Discounted Prices
WOLF 31AH	72000	57749
GENNEXT 31AH	70000	56699
GEN NEXT NANU PLUS	86000	73604
WOLF PLUS	89000	74654
GEN NEXT NANU ECO	75000	67304
WOLF ECO	80000	68354

With a growing portfolio of electric mobility solutions and a customer-first approach, Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited continues to strengthen its position in the EV industry. These customer-focused decision reflects the brand’s ongoing dedication to delivering value, innovation, and responsible transportation options.

Germany's TÜV SÜD Inaugurates E-Mobility Training Laboratory in Bengaluru

TÜV SÜD, a global leader in safety, quality, compliance, security, and sustainability solutions, hosted an exclusive preview of its state-of-the-art E-Mobility Training Mobile Lab at its Bengaluru Campus. This groundbreaking initiative is poised to transform the EV ecosystem by addressing the growing demand for hands-on, high-voltage (HV) safety training and upskilling in the electric mobility sector.

The TÜV SÜD E-Mobility Training Mobile Lab is a first-of-its-kind, expert-led, mobile training facility that brings practical, real-world education directly to the doors of automotive businesses, manufacturing units, and training institutes. By eliminating logistical barriers and reducing downtime, the lab ensures compliance with international safety standards, while accelerating EV adoption across industries.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Live, hands-on training using real EV components and high-voltage systems.
• On-demand, on-site demos for convenient, customer-specific training.
• Cutting-edge safety and testing equipment for accurate, industry-standard learning.
• Modular and customizable training tailored for various industries and personnel.
• Compliance and certification support, equipping professionals to meet global safety regulations.

Scalable and adaptable to different markets and geographies.

The lab is purpose-built to serve a broad range of stakeholders including automotive technicians and engineers, first responders and emergency personnel, manufacturing and assembly line workers, and institutional sales teams.

This mobile lab is a game-changer for the EV industry, fostering skill development and industry-readiness among professionals. With a flexible and immersive approach to EV training, the lab is designed to empower the workforce, enhance operational safety, and set new benchmarks for industry excellence.

Mr. Simon Lemin CEO TUV SUD South East Asia said, "The launch of our E-Mobility Training Laboratory represents a significant step forward in advancing the skills and safety standards of professionals in the e-mobility sector. We are proud to empower organisations and individuals through practical training solutions that deliver real-world, hands-on experience with high-voltage systems, fostering both knowledge and skill development.”

Mr. Vishal Nerurkar , Senior Vice President , Business Assurance TUV SUD South East Asia said, "As the world moves toward sustainable mobility, TÜV SÜD remains committed to safety, quality, and technical excellence in e-mobility. With the launch of the TÜV SÜD E-Mobility Mobile Training Lab, we take a significant step in delivering cutting-edge training directly to you.This state-of-the-art facility on wheels is empowers OEMs, component manufacturers, automotive professionals, and students with hands-on training in EV technology and industry best practices. By bridging the skills gap, TÜV SÜD is enabling a safe and sustainable transition to e-mobility, reinforcing our commitment to innovation, safety, and knowledge-sharing across the automotive ecosystem."

TÜV SÜD continues to be at the forefront of e-mobility innovation, and this latest initiative reinforces its commitment to future-ready training and safer EV ecosystems worldwide.

Hyundai and TVS Motor Explore Partnership to Redefine Last Mile Mobility Solutions

Showcase Micro Mobility Concept EVs at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

• The partnership will provide a unique opportunity to contribute to the micromobility needs in one of the world’s fastest growing economies.
• TVS Motor Company (TVSM) will explore to manufacture, market and co-develop the vehicles along with Hyundai Motor Company.

TVS Motor Company and Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) today unveiled concept models of advanced electric three-wheelers and micro four-wheelers at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The concept models address the pressing need for sustainable mobility and align with the evolving demands of road and urban infrastructure in one of the world’s fastest growing economies. Together with Hyundai Motor, TVSM is exploring to contribute to the last-mile mobility market of India. While binding agreements are yet to be executed, Hyundai Motor is exploring to offer design, engineering and technology while TVSM will contribute towards manufacture, market and co-development of the vehicles.

These innovative concepts underline TVSM’s focus on providing mobility solutions that are efficient, exciting, responsible, safe and sustainable.

Commenting on the announcement, Sharad Mishra, President, Group Strategy, TVS Motor Company, said, "TVS is proud to partner with Hyundai to shape the future of urban mobility. By combining Hyundai’s global expertise with our deep understanding of mobility solutions, we aim to develop next-generation micro-mobility solutions that redefine last-mile connectivity. This collaboration reflects our commitment to innovation and sustainability. With a shared vision, we are confident that this partnership will deliver impactful solutions that set new standards in design, engineering, technology, and quality."

Commenting on the concepts, Mr SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, Hyundai Motor, said, “Hyundai Motor is a customer-centric brand, and caring for people in India is our first mission. This commitment has driven us to explore designing micro-mobility solutions tailored to India's unique environment, reimagining the iconic three-wheeler to enhance mobility experiences through thoughtful design. Collaborating with TVS Motor, we aim to locally produce the three-wheeler while exploring global opportunities for the four-wheeler, blending intuitive functionality with the spirit of a rapidly innovating India.”

BluSmart Granted US Patent for Innovative Allocation System for e-Mobility

India's first and leading all-electric ride-hailing mobility service provider, BluSmart, has been granted a US patent for its innovative allocation system for e-mobility. This system, titled "Systems and Methods for Allocating Vehicles to Ride Requests," optimizes ride matching, driver efficiency, and charging station utilization. It ensures reduced wait times, fair pricing, and reliable service with 100% uptime.

The system that is granted patent optimally guides driver partners from the initiation of a ride request to picking up the customer and seamlessly navigating to the nearest EV charging station when needed.

BluSmart’s patented allocation system introduces several advancements over existing ride-hailing systems. Unlike traditional ride-hailing systems, BluSmart’s system is specifically designed for electric vehicles (EVs). It integrates with charging stations to ensure efficient vehicle charging and minimal downtime, which is crucial for maintaining 100% uptime.

BluSmart's patented system uses advanced algorithms to match ride requests with available vehicles, ensuring minimal wait times for passengers. The patented system integrates with charging infrastructure to ensure vehicles are charged efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring 100% uptime.

By optimizing the allocation of rides and resources, the system helps maintain fair and competitive pricing for passengers.

The system uses sophisticated algorithms to match ride requests with available vehicles, reducing wait times and improving overall efficiency. While other ride-hailing platforms also use algorithms, BluSmart’s focus on EV-specific challenges sets it apart.

The system ensures that vehicles are charged efficiently, minimizing downtime and maintaining high availability.

To address supply shortages, the system can offer incentives to drivers to work during peak periods, ensuring sufficient vehicle availability. It can also inform users about expected wait times and provide alter

native options, enhancing user satisfaction.

This patented technology is a major milestone for BluSmart, solidifying its position as an innovator in sustainable urban transportation. It contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions and promotes sustainable transportation solutions in key markets such as Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, and Dubai

To Fight Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR, Tata Power To Incentivize Its Employees to Purchase EVs at Special Benefits

In a major thrust to improve air quality in Delhi NCR, Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, today launched a special program to incentivize its employees to switch to EVs. This announcement is aligned with Tata Power's 'Sustainable is Attainable' movement, which encourages adoption of green energy solutions and products to commit to a Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE).

Tata Power and its subsidiaries have nearly 4000 employees working in the Delhi NCR region and are focused on building a culture of responsible environmental practices among the employees through initiatives like Climate Crew, which aims to mobilize the workforce to opt for green practices.

Under this program, Tata Power has encouraged its employees to purchase EVs, and is also offering free charging facility at select office locations including reimbursement of charging costs beyond company premises. Tata Power has also tied up with EV market leader Tata Motors to make available popular EVs at special prices for employees, with priority delivery post booking, and long term and low EMI financing covering the entire cost of the vehicle.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Himal Tewari, CHRO, Chief - CSR & Sustainability, Tata Power said, “We are encouraging our employees to embrace e-mobility and champion the cause of sustainable lifestyle by reducing individual carbon footprint. Tata Power is cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship, empowering every employee to become a 'Climate Action Hero' through such initiatives. We hope this move will also contribute towards improving the AQI in Delhi NCR, the city with one of the highest vehicular densities in the country."

Tata Power currently has an expansive EV Charging network consisting of 250+ e-Bus charging points, and 500+ public and semi-public charging points across Delhi NCR.

Tata Power is a leading integrated power company and a part of Tata Group, India’s largest multi-national business conglomerate. The company has a diversified portfolio of 14399 MW, spanning across the entire power value chain - from renewable and conventional energy generation to transmission & distribution, trading, storage solutions and solar cells and module manufacturing. As a pioneer of clean energy transition in India, Tata Power has 5539 MW of clean energy generation, which constitutes 38% of its total capacity.

The company has also committed to achieve carbon neutrality before 2045.Tata Power has established India’s most comprehensive clean energy platform, with offerings such as rooftop solar, microgrids, storage solutions, EV charging infrastructure, home automation et al. The company has also attracted global investors to support its growth and vision. Tata Power has successfully partnered with public and private entities in generation, transmission & distribution sectors in India, serving approx.13 million customers across the country. To know more about Tata Power, visit www.tatapower.com

Ashok Leyland to Invest Rs 1200 Cr Into Switch Mobility

Infusion to fund expansion of product portfolio, R&D & operations

The Board of Directors of Ashok Leyland in their meeting held today, have approved an investment of Rs 1200 cr in Switch Mobility as equity through its holding company Optare PLC UK. The funds infused will be used for capital expenditure, R&D and meeting operational requirements both in UK and India. The funds will be infused over the next few months after necessary statutory approvals in one or more tranches.

Switch Group of Companies (Switch Mobility Ltd - UK and Switch Mobility Automotive Ltd- India) house the Electric Mobility initiative of the CV major, Ashok Leyland, focusing on e-Buses and e-LCVs. Over the last few years, Switch India has had major success in garnering orders from State Transport Undertakings. As on date Switch in India and UK has over 800 + buses plying successfully and has an order book of over 1200 buses. Switch India had a successful launch of India’s only Double Decker e-Bus last year.

In September 2023, Switch India launched its state-of-the-art e-LCVs. The company has signed MOUs of over 13000 vehicles for its much-awaited e-LCVs which it will start delivering from the fourth quarter of the current fiscal.

Mr Dheeraj G Hinduja, Executive Chairman, Ashok Leyland stated, “Electric Vehicles especially in buses and light trucks have a very bright future as Governments and private customers are driving the green agenda. We are very happy with the progress made by Switch, and we will continue to invest on building its capabilities. We are confident that Switch will grow further in the European markets with the launch in 2024 of our new E1 12m bus developed specifically for the European market. Our portfolio of electric buses will cover value and premium segments meeting all price points for many global markets”

Mr Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland said, “The market for EVs is growing rapidly driven by the trend towards Carbon Neutrality. The Government support is further helping the market to expand. We will continue to build capability in this business by investing in product development as well as in expanding operations. Both India and European markets are going to be important growth centers for EV trucks and buses. In the coming year we are expecting our e-LCVs to drive faster customer adoption. The balance sheet of Ashok Leyland can comfortably fund the initiatives of Switch.”

In this Press Release, the company has disclosed forward-looking information to enable investors to fully appreciate our prospects and take informed investment decisions. This report and other statements – written and oral – that we periodically make, contain forward-looking statements that set our anticipated results based on management plans and assumptions. We have tried, where possible to identify such statements by using such words as ‘anticipate’, ‘expect’, ‘project’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘believe’ and words of similar substance in connection with any discussion of future performance.

We cannot, of course guarantee that these forward-looking statements will be realized, although we believe we have been prudent in our assumptions. Achievement of results is subject to risks, uncertainties, or potentially inaccurate assumptions. Should known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove inaccurate, actual results could vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or projected. Readers should bear this in mind.

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