New McLaren 788HS Unveiled

McLaren introduces the new 788HS – the definitive and final evolution of its award-winning series supercar that celebrates and concludes the multi-award-winning supercar lineage that began with 720S and evolved through 765LT and 750S.

The 788HS features a 788PS 4.0-litre twin turbo V8, which combines with a 1,265kg dry weight to deliver a power-to-weight of 623PS per tonne – the highest achieved by any model in the 720S, 750S and 765LT series. When coupled with the unique aerodynamic package, amplified exterior design cues and personalisation possibilities, the result is heightened performance on track, even greater engagement on the road, and the chance for each client to celebrate the car’s era-defining linage in their own way using the expertise of McLaren Special Operations (MSO).

The McLaren 788HS wears the ‘High Sport’ designation reserved only for the most special expressions of a series production McLaren. Until now, this rare badge has only appeared on two previous McLarens; the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS.

Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Chief Commercial Officer, McLaren Automotive, said: “The new McLaren 788HS has been designed and engineered with a singular focus; to deliver a visceral experience and captivating drive through its precise balance of performance, sound, dynamism and individuality. It represents the ultimate expression of our supercar series that began with the 720S and becomes only the third McLaren to wear our HS designation – a fitting finale for a much loved and critically acclaimed car.”

Assertive design
The McLaren 788HS features sculpted bodywork elements that provide the most advanced aerodynamic package ever applied to the platform, increasing downforce by 10% over 765LT, with uncompromised vehicle dynamics and balance.

The aerodynamic concept centres around a new S-Duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler and an intricate Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser. Working in combination with a bespoke front splitter, these elements enhance stability, performance and driver confidence. The louvred under-wing panel further supports powertrain cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.

Gloss black exterior accents include a roof scoop on Coupe derivatives, and clients can opt for full Visual Carbon Fibre bodywork – encompassing every exterior panel – highlighting the car’s lightweight construction.

The driver centric cabin layout includes a lightweight carbon fibre centre console that signifies the level of focus applied to every aspect of 788HS.

The cabin also features bespoke HS branding with a unique perforation pattern for the upholstery and a dedication plaque.

Track precision meets on-road engagement
The heart of the 788HS is McLaren’s M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, which revs to 8,500rpm and develops peak power at 7,500rpm. With 800Nm of torque it delivers immediate response and sustained acceleration – from 0-100kmph in 2.8s, 0-200kmph in 7.0s, to a top speed of 330kmph (205mph). A unique engine mount calibration for 788HS delivers heightened engagement and connection between powertrain and driver without compromising long-distance usability.

Proactive Chassis Control III linked-hydraulic suspension system with bespoke suspension tuning delivers even higher levels of dynamic performance. The 788HS also features a 5mm lower front ride height than the 750S, for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Braking performance is enhanced through carbon ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna, with black six-piston forged aluminium monoblock front calipers and integrated cooling for sustained high-performance use. The 788HS also introduces the first centre-lock wheel mechanism ever fitted to this supercar series, in combination with a new Super Lightweight Forged Alloy wheel.

The quad-exit titanium exhaust system amplifies the V8’s distinctive soundtrack, with more intensity throughout the rev range, while carefully engineered induction and exhaust sound symposer technologies immerse occupants in the unmistakable soundtrack of McLaren’s twin-turbocharged V8.

Škoda Auto Builds Its One-Millionth Karoq

Škoda Auto has built its millionth Karoq at the Kvasiny plant. The milestone vehicle is a Karoq 1.5 TSI 110 kW in Graphite Grey. Since its debut in 2017, the Karoq has proved popular with customers and earned recognition from industry experts, including a Red Dot Award in the Product Design category. With its spacious interior, extensive standard equipment and choice of front- or all-wheel drive, the Karoq offers a high degree of versatility and everyday practicality. It is built at the Kvasiny plant, which also produces the Octavia and Kodiaq and has an annual production capacity of more than 300,000 vehicles. The model’s successor is set to be unveiled at the turn of 2027 and 2028.

Andreas Dick, responsible for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto, says: “Since production began in 2017, the Škoda Karoq has become an established part of our portfolio and an especially important model for the Kvasiny plant. Reaching the one-million mark reflects the commitment and teamwork of many people over the years. I would like to thank all colleagues in Kvasiny for their dedication, as well as our social partner KOVO for our long-standing, constructive and trusted cooperation.”

Škoda Karoq: an important pillar of the brand’s SUV line-up
Launched in 2017 as Škoda’s third SUV model at the time, the Karoq quickly proved popular with customers around the world. Škoda now offers 14 model series, nine of them SUVs, and the Karoq is the third most popular model in the brand’s SUV line-up.

Following its update four years after launch, the Karoq continues to appeal with its spacious, versatile interior, extensive standard equipment and efficient powertrains.

Practical SUV wins over customers and experts alike
The Škoda Karoq is currently available in around 60 markets worldwide. Customers can choose from 1.0 TSI, 1.4 TSI, 1.5 TSI and 2.0 TSI petrol engines, as well as a 2.0 TDI diesel, with power outputs ranging from 85 to 140 kW and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.

Some 73% of customers choose an automatic transmission, while 27% opt for a manual. The model’s largest markets are Germany, the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom.

The Karoq has also received a number of international awards and accolades, including the Red Dot Award for Product Design, the 2018 Car of the Year title in the Czech Republic and the Best Value Family SUV award at the 2023 What Car? Awards.

Work on the next generation of the Karoq is progressing, with its unveiling planned for the turn of 2027 and 2028.

Karoq remains an important part of Kvasiny production
The Karoq has been built at Škoda Auto’s Kvasiny plant since its launch and accounts for a significant share of the site’s production output. In 2025, following the expansion of Kodiaq production and the addition of the Octavia to the production programme, the plant set a new record by building 301,500 Škoda vehicles. The Octavia Combi has also been produced there since May 2026.

The Kvasiny plant is one of the region’s largest employers and is being continually modernised to improve flexibility and efficiency. This year, its paint shop will be upgraded to further raise quality standards and allow the use of more advanced paint materials.

JSW MG Motor India Unveils MG ADAPT – India’s First Multi New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Platform

Reinforcing its commitment to advancing New Energy Mobility in India, JSW MG Motor India has unveiled MG ADAPT (Advance Drive Architecture Platform Technology), India’s first Multi New Energy Vehicle (NEV) platform. Designed as a future-ready modular architecture, MG ADAPT supports Electric Vehicles (EVs), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Range Extender Electric Vehicles (REEVs), bringing multiple energy solutions together on a single intelligent platform.

A Platform Built for the Future

Engineered to address the evolving needs of customers and a rapidly transforming mobility landscape, MG ADAPT is developed as an intelligent modular architecture. The platform seamlessly integrates multiple electrified propulsion technologies within a common framework. Its advanced engineering with a greater design flexibility delivers faster product development, focuses on improving driving range, fast-charging capability, enhanced efficiency, stronger performance, improved safety and superior driving refinement.

While remaining adaptable to future mobility technologies, MG ADAPT aims to offer customers the right powertrain for every driving need. As the foundation for JSW MG Motor India’s next generation of New Energy Vehicles, MG ADAPT establishes a new benchmark in platform versatility while accelerating the company’s vision for sustainable mobility.

Speaking at the unveiling, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “At JSW MG Motor India, we believe the future of mobility lies in giving customers the freedom to choose the energy solution that best suits their lifestyle, without compromising on performance, efficiency or driving experience. MG ADAPT marks a defining milestone in our New Energy Vehicle journey and reflects our commitment to bringing globally advanced technologies that are relevant to the evolving needs of Indian customers.

Designed as a highly flexible technology platform, MG ADAPT brings together multiple energy solutions on a single intelligent architecture, enabling us to deliver vehicles that are more efficient, more adaptable and engineered for the future. As we continue to expand our New Energy Vehicle portfolio, this platform will serve as the technological backbone of our future products and reinforce our commitment to accelerating sustainable mobility in India.”

Engineering Intelligence at its Core

At the heart of MG ADAPT is an Integrated Technology Ecosystem developed exclusively for hybrid applications to deliver the best operational efficiency to surpass customer expectations on drivability, economy and hassle-free trips.

The technology integrates a dedicated hybrid engine, a dedicated battery system, a first-in-India 10‑in‑1 intelligent electric drive unit, and the world’s first electromagnetic dedicated hybrid transmission. Managed by an intelligent energy management system, these components continuously optimize the interaction between the engine, battery, and electric motor to maximize efficiency, performance, and driving comfort.

The dedicated hybrid engine has been developed exclusively for hybrid applications to deliver higher thermal efficiency and lower fuel consumption. Complementing it is a dedicated battery system that provides instant electric response, enhanced safety, and high efficiency.

The compact 10-in-1 Intelligent Electric Drive Unit simplifies system complexity while improving performance and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Electromagnetic Dedicated Hybrid Transmission ensures seamless power delivery, faster response and a refined driving experience.

Intelligent Energy Management

MG ADAPT’s Intelligent Energy Management System continuously analyses driving conditions and automatically selects the most efficient operating strategy through four dedicated drive modes:

Pure Electric Drive – Silent, responsive urban driving
Series Hybrid Drive – Engine generates electricity while the motor powers the wheels
Parallel Hybrid Drive – Engine and motor work together for maximum performance
Engine Direct Drive – Optimised for efficient highway cruising

Enabling the Future of Electric Mobility

Built on a highly modular architecture, MG ADAPT also supports Range Extender Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology. In this configuration, the electric motor always powers the wheels, while a petrol engine acts solely as a generator to recharge the battery when required. This delivers an electric-first driving experience while significantly enhancing driving range, offering customers greater confidence and flexibility for longer journeys.

MINI India Accelerates Into H1 2026 With An Exceptional Plus 70% Growth

MINI India has delivered a standout first half of 2026, powered by an exciting product line-up, stronger brand engagement and a focused retail network expansion plan. Between January and June 2026, MINI delivered 504 cars to customers, registering +70% growth year-on-year. The performance reinforces MINI’s distinctive appeal among customers who value expressive design, go-kart-like driving fun and a premium urban lifestyle with unmistakable character.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “MINI India has had a remarkable start to 2026, growing by +70% in the first half of the year. This momentum reflects the strong connection customers have with MINI’s unmistakable design, spirited performance and vibrant lifestyle appeal. The success of our special editions and the continued popularity of the MINI Countryman show how strongly MINI’s unique character is resonating in India. As we look ahead, the locally produced MINI Countryman C will play a defining role in the next phase of MINI’s journey in India. It brings the brand closer to more customers, makes MINI ownership even more accessible and will be instrumental in strategically catapulting MINI’s growth in the country. With an expanded product offering, richer brand experiences and a stronger retail footprint, MINI is well-positioned to build on this momentum.”

MINI Product Offensive

MINI’s product strategy continued to spark excitement through a series of distinctive special editions in 2026. The MINI Cooper S Victory Edition and MINI Convertible JCW Pack were completely sold out, highlighting strong customer enthusiasm for exclusive offerings that bring together individuality, performance and MINI’s high-character appeal.

Retail Network Expansion

A focused retail network expansion plan is strengthening MINI’s growth journey in India by bringing the brand closer to customers in high-potential markets. With Retail.NEXT, MINI is creating future-forward retail spaces designed to make every interaction more immersive, innovative and personal. Today, MINI has 18 sales touchpoints across 17 cities. In 2026, MINI network expansion across new markets includes Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ranchi, Guwahati, Surat, Vijayawada and Lucknow, while deepening its presence in key cities such as Mumbai, Pune and Gurugram. This wider and more experience-led footprint will help MINI engage more customers, strengthen brand visibility and support the next phase of growth

Brand Connect and Experience

MINI continued to strengthen its connection with customers and fans through engaging experiential platforms. Signature engagements such as MINI Go-Kart Days saw strong participation, reinforcing the brand’s emotional pull and the enduring appeal of MINI’s fun-to-drive spirit.

Renault To Celebrate Performance History And Electric Future At Goodwood Festival of Speed

Renault will return to the Goodwood Festival of Speed with a showcase that brings together some of the most defining and celebrated moments in its performance history, from rally-winning icons and Formula 1 pioneers to its latest electric ‘mini-supercar’, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, making its public dynamic debut.

Across the event, Renault’s presence will create a vivid link between past innovation and future technology. The 555 hp Renault 5 Turbo 3E will take on the famous hillclimb in tandem with the pioneering Renault RS10 Formula 1 car, while on the Renault stand it will be brought face-to-face with the legendary 1985 Tour de Corse-winning Renault 5 Turbo that inspired it, reconnecting the original with its modern electric reinterpretation. The championship-winning Renault R25 completes the line-up, forming a striking display that reflects how Renault’s approach to performance has evolved across generations.

At the centre of this story is the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which reimagines one of Renault’s most iconic competition cars for the electric era. Running throughout the four-day event in front of sell-out crowds, it will demonstrate how the spirit of the original Renault 5 Turbo continues in a bold new form, defined by electrifying performance, advanced engineering and unmistakable design.

Powered by two rear-mounted in-wheel electric motors developing 4,800 Nm of torque, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is the most powerful road-going Renault ever created. Its carbon superstructure keeps weight to around 1,450 kg, enabling 0–62 mph in under 3.5 seconds, while an advanced 800-volt architecture supports ultra-fast 330 kW charging, allowing a 15–80% recharge in just 15 minutes.

Displayed alongside it, the 1985 Tour de Corse-winning Renault 5 Turbo stands as a defining moment in Renault’s rally heritage. Its presence at Goodwood highlights the origins of the Turbo nameplate, creating a powerful connection between one of Renault’s most celebrated competition cars and its electric successor.

Renault’s Formula 1 legacy further strengthens that connection. The Renault RS10, which will run dynamically on the hillclimb, marked a turning point in motorsport history as the first turbocharged Formula 1 car to win a Grand Prix, a breakthrough that reshaped the sport’s technical direction and cemented Renault’s reputation for innovation in Formula 1.

Joining it will be the iconic Renault R25 Formula 1 car that powered Fernando Alonso to the first of his two World Championship titles in 2005. Famous for its distinctive blue and yellow livery and the ear-splitting shriek of its 3.0-litre naturally-aspirated V10 engine, it remains one of the most revered cars in modern motorsport history.

Renault’s electric icons and the next generation
Alongside its performance and heritage display, Renault will showcase the breadth of its next-generation electric range, reinforcing how its innovation continues to translate into the everyday.

The stand will feature the multi-award-winning Renault 5 E-Tech electric and Renault 4 E-Tech electric, together with the new Renault 4 E-Tech electric ‘Plein Sud’, which introduces an electrically operated canvas roof that opens at the touch of a button or via voice control, for an open-air driving experience that maintains refinement when closed.

Also making its Goodwood debut is the Renault Twingo E-Tech electric, offering an early insight into Renault’s future approach to accessible electric mobility. Designed for urban use, it combines compact dimensions with a targeted starting price below £20,000, a WLTP range of up to 163 miles and features including One Pedal driving and OpenR Link with Google built-in.

Hillclimb appearances across the event will be undertaken by Arthur Ferrière and David Prasch, both experienced development and test drivers with extensive backgrounds in high-performance vehicle engineering and chassis development.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is set against the spectacular backdrop of Goodwood House in West Sussex.

The New BMW X6 M60i xDrive Launched In India

The new BMW X6 M60i xDrive was launched in India. This performance Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) will be available in the country as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) model. The car is available at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,77,90,000.

The new BMW X6 M60i xDrive is a bold expression of authority on the road, where uncompromised performance meets commanding luxury. Designed to indulge every journey, it surrounds its passengers with refined comfort, striking design, and intelligent functionality. Powered by a newly developed V8 petrol engine, the roaring 4.4-litre engine is a high-performance masterpiece.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The new BMW X6 M60i xDrive is an absolute powerhouse engineered to command the road with an unmistakable, muscular stance. Positioned at the pinnacle of expressive luxury, this sports activity coupé is crafted for individuals who demand a distinct lifestyle. At its heart lies the legendary V8 engine, offering raw, emotional power. The X6 M60i is not just an automobile; it is a bold manifestation of exclusivity and engineering supremacy, designed to dominate the road and imagination of true driving connoisseurs.”

The new BMW X6 M60i enthralls with its distinctive design and coupé profile. The long, swooping roofline and crisply painted lines generate a dynamically stretched silhouette. The new BMW X6 features slim adaptive LED headlight units with arrow-shaped daytime driving light elements, specified with M Shadowline lights. Kidney grille surrounded in matt black featuring vertical double ribs, and the M logo exude M style on the front of the new BMW X6 M60i. The gloss black M exterior mirrors adds to the aggressive look of the SAC. M-specific side skirts and M High-gloss Shadowline extended trim reflect the agile character of the new BMW X6. The athletically taut surfacing of the flanks and the car’s muscular shoulders transition smoothly into its equally powerful rear end design. The rear apron has an insert in Dark Shadow, while the exhaust tailpipe trims are trapezoidal in shape. Another unmissable design feature of the Sports Activity Coupé is the slim rear lights that reach far into the tailgate. Their light signature is shaped by the familiar L shape of the rear light and brake light bars. The BMW X6 M60i xDrive leaves the factory as standard on 21-inch M light-alloy wheels with runflat tyres.

The new BMW X6 M60i is fitted with the M Sport package Pro as standard which also includes an M Sport braking system with red brake callipers, a quad-pipe M Sport exhaust system, M seat belts and a rear spoiler in black high-gloss, pointing to the standout performance attributes of the eight-cylinder model.

The new BMW X6 M60i will be available in six striking colours – Aventurine Red, Manhattan Metallic, Brooklyn Grey, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Isle of Man Green. Inside, the cabin can be tailored with Sensafin upholstery available in Silverstone, Tacora Red/Black, Black and Cognac. For those seeking a truly bespoke finish, further individualisation is possible with around 40+ BMW Individual special paintwork shades (including metallic variants such as Atlantis and Velvet Blue, as well as solid or matt finishes) along with BMW Individual extended leather trim ‘Merino’ in Ivory white, coffee, tartufo and black ensure the vehicle is a unique reflection of your taste.

The fully digital BMW curved display is at the heart of the interior redesign for the new BMW X6 M60i. It is made up of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches – both located behind a single glass surface. The newly designed instrument panel serves as the perfect stage for the BMW curved display. Its horizontal structure emphasises the width of the cabin, while the surfacing in leather-like Sensafin, with its aesthetic and haptic qualities, draws further attention to the optimised premium character of the interior. Adding an extra touch of elegance and quality is the broad, smoothly curving trim element in standard fine wood with high-gloss metal effect for the new BMW X6 M60i xDrive model. Another feature is the ambient light bar with crystalline surface structure and highly effective LED backlighting integrated below the trim element in the front passenger area. The model lettering – “///M” – is added to the light bar’s graphic. Exclusive glass applications as optional for toggle, iDrive controller and controls can be specified with the crafted clarity option.

The standard comfort seats in the new BMW X6 offer outstanding lateral support through dynamically taken corners. They are ventilated, feature lumbar support and offer electric adjustment options for the seat height, seat angle, backrest angle and backrest width – including a memory function on the driver’s side. Also available as an option for the driver and front passenger is massage function with eight massage programs, each with three intensity levels for muscle activation and relaxation. With its 16 speakers and 464-watt amplifier, the Harman Kardon surround sound system further enhances the on-board acoustic experience. The optional Alcantara M headliner adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Additionally, Soft-close doors enhance convenience and safety with smooth, effortless operation.

The new BMW X6 M60i xDrive model is powered by a newly developed V8 petrol engine. The 4.4-litre power unit can trace its genes back to engines used in renowned BMW M and racing machines. The engine produces an output of 530 hp and 750 Nm maximum torque. It is accompanied by a characteristic sound thanks to the M sport exhaust unit. The 48V battery setup significantly improves performance as well as efficiency. The car completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 250 kmph.

The eight-speed steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it is available with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function as standard. The integral active steering, with rear-wheel steer, enhances agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds.

BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. The standard M Sport differential enhances driving engagement. The Adaptive M suspension fitted as standard results in a noticeably firmer connection to the body. Electronically controlled dampers are on hand to refine handling dynamics as well as primary ride comfort. M Sport brakes provide excellent braking performance and intuitive feel, whether negotiating city streets or driving around a circuit on a track day. The brake callipers are painted red and display the M logo.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. Host of ConnectedDrive features include digital key plus, emergency call, real-time traffic information and remote services through MyBMW app. BMW live cockpit professional includes the freestanding 14.9” BMW curved display with navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and BMW head-up display.

The latest BMW iDrive with Operating System 8.5, offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch or speech. It is complemented by the BMW intelligent personal assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Wireless smartphone integration and regular remote software upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

My BMW App keeps an eye on vehicle status and includes ‘Learning Navigation’ which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on driving habits. BMW digital key plus turns a smartphone into a vehicle key enabling remote locking / unlocking and driving the car.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking assistant professional with 360 surround view makes parking in tight spots easier. The reversing assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 200 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as auto start-stop, brake-energy regeneration, electronic power steering, ECO PRO mode in driving experience control. An adaptive M suspension tuned with bespoke chassis technology for a sporty driving experience offers excellent body rigidity for a sportiness and comfortable ride. Intelligent lightweight design, 50: 50 weight distribution and optimized aerodynamic properties provide an ideal basis for endowing the new BMW X6 M60i with remarkably agile and dynamic handling abilities.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, attentiveness assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, tyre pressure indicator, ISOFIX child seat mounting and tyre repair kit.

Renault India Begins Global Exports of the All-New Duster

Renault India has begun exports of the all-new Duster, with a first shipment of 750 vehicles departing from Chennai to South Africa. The shipment marks the beginning of Renault India’s export programme for the new Duster, with additional international markets planned in the coming months.

This milestone underscores the growing role of India within Renault Group’s global manufacturing and export network. It also reflects the company’s futuREady strategy to strengthen India’s position as a key hub for manufacturing, engineering, and exports.

Commenting on this Occasion, Mr. Stephane Deblaise, CEO of Renault Group India, said, “The start of exports of the all-new Duster is an important moment for Renault India and a strong validation of the quality, capabilities, and competitiveness of our operations in Chennai. It reflects the progress we have made in building India into an integral part of Renault’s global industrial footprint.

“India possesses all the fundamentals required to emerge as a leading automotive export hub: world-class manufacturing capabilities, engineering talent, scale, and a rapidly evolving logistics ecosystem. As Renault continues to expand its international footprint, India will play an increasingly strategic role in our future plans. We remain committed to contributing to the country’s manufacturing ambitions and are working towards our objective of generating €2 billion in annual exports from India by 2030.”

The new Duster is the first Renault vehicle in India to be built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), a flexible architecture designed to support multiple powertrain technologies. It has also secured a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating across all variants and powertrains, further reinforcing its readiness for both domestic and global markets.

DrivebuddyAI Secures Patent for Real-Time Lane ROI Detection System, Advancing Next-Generation ADAS Safety

drivebuddyAI, a leading provider of AI-powered Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS), has been granted an Indian patent for its invention “A Real-Time Automotive Assistance System and Method for Lane ROI Detection in Vehicle.”

The patented technology introduces an intelligent, automated framework for lane detection that improves the accuracy and reliability of critical ADAS functions while reducing false alerts across diverse real-world driving environments.

As ADAS adoption continues to grow globally, an accurate understanding of the vehicle’s drivable corridor remains essential for safety features such as lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings, headway monitoring, and driver assistance interventions. However, conventional systems are often affected by variations in camera installation, vehicle architecture, road geometry, environmental conditions, and sensor alignment, resulting in inaccurate estimations and inconsistent performance.

drivebuddyAI’s patented technology addresses these challenges through a self-calibrating framework that automatically optimises lane calculations during new installations, software updates, and system reboots, ensuring reliable performance without manual intervention. The new patent covers several innovations, including:
● AI-driven frame validation that selects high-confidence video frames for lane ROI computation.
● Vehicle-specific lane adaptation based on vehicle type and configuration.
● Dual-camera architecture integrating road-facing ADAS with Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS).
● Real-time safety alerts supporting lane departure warning, collision avoidance, and steering assistance.
● Compatibility with Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous driving applications, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and advanced path planning.

Unlike conventional approaches that rely on static calibration settings, drivebuddyAI’s technology continuously validates and optimises lane ROI using real-world driving data, enabling robust performance across inconsistent lane markings, changing road conditions, adverse weather, and diverse vehicle platforms.

The technology has been trained and validated on over 6.4 billion kilometres of real-world driving data, spanning highways, urban roads, rural routes, low-light environments, adverse weather conditions, and complex mixed-traffic scenarios. This extensive dataset enables reliable lane perception in situations where traditional systems frequently underperform.

Commenting on the patent grant, Nisarg Pandya, Founder & CEO, drivebuddyAI, said: “The effectiveness of any ADAS system depends on how accurately it understands the drivable space around the vehicle. This patent is a significant step towards self-calibrating ADAS systems that deliver more reliable safety alerts with minimal manual intervention.”

The technology is particularly valuable for commercial fleets and OEMs operating across diverse geographies and vehicle platforms. By automating lane calibration and enabling continuous optimisation through cloud connectivity and over-the-air (OTA) updates, the solution simplifies deployment, reduces maintenance requirements, and ensures consistent ADAS performance throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

This latest grant further strengthens drivebuddyAI’s growing intellectual property portfolio, which now includes more than 15 patents spanning ADAS, DMS, AI perception, driver risk assessment, driver recognition, real-time safety systems, and intelligent mobility technologies. As the automotive industry transitions toward connected, software-defined, and increasingly autonomous vehicles, drivebuddyAI continues to advance AI-driven safety innovations that make mobility safer, smarter, and more reliable.

New Dacia Spring: A Name That Continues A Legacy

Dacia is launching the second generation of its 100% electric city car. Made in Europe, New Spring opens a new chapter for the brand, while building on the continuity of a model that has become a benchmark.

Introduced in 2021, Spring has already won over nearly 210,000 customers across Europe, confirming the relevance of simple, accessible, no-nonsense electric mobility.

True to the Dacia spirit, New Spring keeps the essentials: a 100% electric powertrain, four real seats and a proper boot.

A universal and instantly recognisable name, Spring is a symbol of renewal and positive energy. With New Spring, Dacia continues to pursue a clear ambition to pave the way for electric mobility that is accessible to all.

Next-Generation Alpine A110 Mule To Make Global Public Debut At Goodwood

Alpine will reveal the next-generation Alpine A110 mule – car used in testing to develop future technology for the next-generation A110- to the public for the very first time at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (9-12 July), as the brand marks an exciting new chapter with its biggest-ever presence at the legendary event. Alongside the mule, the French premium sports specialty brand will showcase its full model range and a stellar line-up of drivers from BWT Alpine Formula One Team, including Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto.

The third generation of the Alpine A110 will be the world’s first true EV sportscar, underpinned by the brand-new Alpine Performance Platform (APP), which allows it to remain true to Alpine’s DNA while outperforming the best of today’s combustion sports cars. Making its global public premiere at Goodwood, visitors to the Festival of Speed will be able to see the mule – car used in testing to develop future technology for the next-generation A110- in action each day.

To celebrate the heritage of the iconic Alpine A110, the Festival will bring together other landmark models that trace the car’s evolution from rally icon to electric pioneer. Together, these models tell the story of Alpine’s past, present and future.

Based on a bold and confident vision of sportiness, while remaining true to its heritage of performance and emotion, Alpine is entering an exciting new phase in its history, with more customers buying Alpine than ever before. Two models from the current line-up that have driven this record-breaking growth will also be on track and on the stand throughout the festival: the A290, Alpine’s best-selling electric hot hatch, and the A390, the brand’s 470hp five-seat sport fastback and newest addition to the range.

Alpine’s presence at Goodwood extends well beyond its cars. Headlining a five-strong driver line-up from BWT Alpine Formula One Team, Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto will be joined by Alpine Academy and reserve drivers Nina Gademan, Paul Aron and Alex Dunne, to drive exclusive cars and meet fans on the Alpine stand across the four days.

An undoubted highlight of the festival will be the Alpine Moment on Thursday 9 July, when the brand celebrates the A110’s legacy during the “Brand Parade”. Fans will see the mule – car used in testing to develop future technology for the next-generation A110 – make its global public premiere alongside other landmark A110 models which make the Alpine Brand story and the actual line-up – with a demonstration run from the E20 Formula One car providing a memorable finishing touch.

Beyond the headline moments on track, the Alpine stand will be a focal point for fans throughout the four days, with interactive Alpine Active Torque Vectoring (AATV) simulators, daily talks and signing sessions with Alpine’s drivers, and lunchtime DJ sets. The brand’s full line-up will also take part in the festival’s parade, giving visitors further chances to see the cars and drivers up close.

First staged in 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is the world’s largest automotive garden party, with more than 600 cars and motorcycles spanning the history of motoring and motorsport taking to the hill each year, alongside many of the sport’s most legendary figures.