Bengal Moto Fest 2025, a 4 Wheeler Autocross & Indian National Autocross Championship Qualifier, delivered an absolute thriller at Jyotirmoy Knowledge Park near Sonarpur in front of a huge local crowd during the weekend of 8th & 9th November, 2025. This was the fifth consecutive year that this championship was being held here in West Bengal which witnessed a nail-biting competition among the top drivers of the eastern zone.
The event was ably supported by Vamcy Merla & JK Tyre. The championship featured eight categories divided according to engine capacity and modification, to make the competition as fair as possible. There was a separate event planned for the amateur drivers and ladies as well.
The total number of 184 entries were received which included three lady participants. Kolkata local lad Raunak Jana emerged as the fastest man on the track clocking an impressive 1 minute 59.531 seconds in the National Championship Qualifier while Nilanjan Banerjee clocked the fastest timing of 2 minutes 03.972 seconds in the Open Event. Amongst the others Babit Lyngdoh (from Shillong), Karan Choudhury, Areeb Rahman, Uday Ganguly, Srijita Shome and Anish Das emerged victorious in their respective categories.
Speaking on the occasion Saurav Chatterjee, the key organiser of the event, explained that the main objective of the event is to woo the youth from unsafe road racing to regulated motorsports, where safety of the drivers is of paramount importance.
The goal of FMSCI Octane Pits Indian National Autocross Championship is to identify young budding talents from different parts of the country and thus Bengal Moto Fest 2025 is a big step forward to the eminent goal. Motor Sports Association of Eastern India, the organising club of this event wants to be the guiding force of many raw talents in the future.
115 days before its first race in Formula 1, Audi provided a preview of the company’s presence in the pinnacle of motorsport at its Brand Experience Center in Munich. Just like in future production models, Audi will bring uncompromising clarity to the racetrack and beyond.
“By entering the pinnacle of motorsport, Audi is making a clear, ambitious statement,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. “It is the next chapter in the company’s renewal. Formula 1 will be a catalyst for the change towards a leaner, faster and more innovative Audi.” According to Döllner, Audi is entering the racing series with an ambitious yet realistic roadmap: “We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there. We want to win. At the same time, we know that you don’t become a top team in Formula 1 overnight. It takes time, perseverance and tireless questioning of the status quo. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title.”
The Formula 1 team will spearhead Audi’s new brand identity The Audi R26 Concept is a clear statement and provides a preview of the colour scheme and design of the brand’s first Formula 1 race car, which will be unveiled in January. This visual identity is based on the recently introduced design philosophy and its four design principles: clear, technical, intelligent and emotional. “We are implementing a unifying design language that draws together every aspect of our organization,” says Audi Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella. “This makes the Formula 1 project a pioneer for the new brand identity, which will be rolled out in the future both for the F1 team and Audi as a whole.”
The R26 Concept is one of the first expressions of the brand’s new visual identity. Minimalist graphic surfaces, defined by precise geometric cuts, integrate seamlessly with the racing car’s geometry. The colour palette features titanium, carbon black and the newly introduced Audi red. As part of this identity, Audi will also sport red rings, used selectively to underscore its Formula 1 presence.
F1 as a global stage to demonstrate “Vorsprung durch Technik” The Formula 1 project is a strategic flagship for Audi, reflecting the technological, cultural and entrepreneurial reinvention of the brand. It is intended to inspire customers and employees alike. Development and racing take place within an economically attractive framework: a cost cap applicable to all teams ensures a clearly defined budget and conditions, while the global reach of Formula 1 offers strong brand exposure and sponsorship opportunities.
Formula 1 has been a globally established sports platform for decades and, with more than 820 million fans, is the world’s most popular sports series. In 2024, around 1.6 billion TV viewers watched the races. The financial valuations of Formula 1 teams are in the billions. The future Audi F1 team already has three global corporations as partners – adidas, bp and future title partner Revolut – and there is great interest in supporting Audi in Formula 1.
To enter Formula 1, Audi acquired the Sauber Group in Switzerland in its entirety at the beginning of this year, thereby creating the conditions to bring Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund on board as an investor. At the helm of the Audi F1 Project are two experienced Formula 1 managers, former Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley (formerly Red Bull), who report directly to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. In terms of drivers, the company is relying on a combination of experience and youthful energy with seasoned racing driver Nico Hülkenberg (Germany) and young talent Gabriel Bortoleto (Brazil).
“Formula 1 is more than just motorsport,” says Jürgen Rittersberger, CFO of AUDI AG. “It’s entertainment, emotion, technology – and also a challenge. But it is precisely this combination that takes us where we want to go: inspiring new customer groups for Audi. With the enormous reach of Formula 1, we have the opportunity to attract new customers for our brand – especially in the younger target group, where Formula 1 is experiencing rapid growth. Thanks to the cost cap, Formula 1 is also more financially sustainable than ever before. When we look at the development of sponsorship opportunities, team evaluations, and the overall revenue potential in Formula 1, one thing becomes clear: This path makes perfect sense for Audi – also economically.”
From motorsport heritage to Formula 1 newcomer Motorsport is part of the Audi DNA and has always been a driving force for technological progress and innovation. From the first mid-engine Grand Prix car to quattro all-wheel drive in rallying, to diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains at Le Mans, in Formula E and at the Dakar Rally, Audi has led every motorsport project to success with determination, courage, perseverance and team spirit, always pioneering new ground. The Formula 1 involvement of Audi is intended to build on this.
The pinnacle of motorsport is considered the toughest test laboratory in the world. The short development cycles, minimal chain of command and quick decisions are intended to serve as a model for the entire company. At the same time, Audi is close to the latest technological developments and materials. Thanks to open competition, Formula 1 serves as a technology driver for both electric mobility and sustainable e-fuels – both topics that are also highly relevant for production models. In these two areas, the regulations offer great freedom and scope for innovation.
Far-reaching changes to the technical regulations of Formula 1 from 2026 onwards present an ideal opportunity for Audi, as a newcomer, to enter the pinnacle of motorsport. All competitors will have to familiarize themselves with new regulations and technologies at the same time, both in terms of the chassis and the drivetrain.
Milestones and the journey toward Formula 1 Since spring 2022, Audi has been developing the power unit for Formula 1 in Neuburg an der Donau – the only operational location of an F1 team in Germany. It consists of a V6 internal combustion engine (ICE) with a displacement of 1.6 litres and turbocharging, an energy recovery system (ERS) including energy storage (ES) and an electric motor generator unit (MGU-K), as well as an electronic control unit (CU-K). In addition to the power unit, the gearbox is also being developed in Neuburg. Together with the power unit, they form what is known as the powertrain. The new technical regulations for F1 powertrains focus on greater road-car relevance with a new hybrid concept. The output of the electric motor has been tripled and will in future be on a comparable level with the combustion engine, which will be powered by sustainable fuels from 2026. Audi has been working exclusively with the British company bp on this since 2022.
Concept development for the F1 powertrain ‘made in Germany’ began in 2022. Just two years later, the complete powertrain ran dynamically as a unit for the first time in a race simulation on the test bench. Virtual simulations and digital development tools are particularly important here, as regulations mean that it will not be possible to test the new powertrains on a racetrack until early 2026. As with product development at Audi, dynamic driving simulators, digital tools and methods play a significant role in the development process. The first power units for use on the racetrack have now been completed and will be shipped from Neuburg an der Donau to their respective locations starting in December.
The team develops and builds the race cars at the F1 Factory in Hinwil. The Swiss location is also responsible for planning and executing race operations. In addition, a technology office has been in operation in Bicester in the UK since summer 2025. The presence in the so-called ‘Motorsport Valley’ gives the team access to additional F1 expertise. There is intensive technical cooperation between the locations to fully exploit the advantages and opportunities of a factory team through the seamless integration of power unit and chassis.
First race in Formula 1 The future Audi F1 team will make its full public debut at the official team launch in January 2026. Shortly thereafter, the first official test drives with the new-generation Formula 1 cars will take place at the end of January at Barcelona, Spain – still behind closed doors. During further tests in Bahrain (11–13 February and 18–20 February), the Audi factory team will test in Formula 1 in front of the public for the first time, before the brand’s eagerly awaited debut in the pinnacle of motorsport takes place in Melbourne (Australia) from 6–8 March.
The new MINI Countryman SE All4 was launched in India today at an ex-showroom price of INR 66,90,000. The car will be available in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked at all MINI India authorized dealerships from today onwards. Deliveries for the same will commence immediately.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The new MINI Countryman SE All4 is a car that’s full of confidence and adventure. It’s electric, it’s fun to drive, and it’s perfect for exploring the city and the great outdoors. With its spacious interior, eco-friendly tech, and signature MINI style, every drive is a special experience. The sporty design and John Cooper Works trim make it a great choice for those who love performance and sustainability.”
The new all-electric, all-wheel-drive MINI Countryman SE All4 is the epitome of versatility and driving pleasure. The modern, minimalistic design with clear surfaces and wider wheel arches reinforces the look of the new MINI Countryman SE All4. The character of this SUV is underlined through the vertical orientation of body details. Its distinctive front grille, striking headlights and the very sculptural bonnet enhance the overall appeal. Short overhangs and slim contouring give the vehicle’s silhouette an elegant definition. The visual three-part division into the vehicle body, surrounding window area and a Jet Black roof ensure the MINI is instantly recognizable. The surfaces look particularly exciting thanks to an integrative treatment of details. Flush door handles and absence of side scuttles underline the clear and modern overall impression. A clearly defined shoulder area gives a decidedly athletic body. A wide stance on the rear, characteristic charisma and a modern minimalist design with clearly designed surfaces ensure the new MINI Countryman SE All4 has a significantly enhanced presence.
With its dynamic, sporty exterior and exclusive JCW trim, the new MINI Countryman SE All4 stands out as the epitome of driving fun and individuality. The exterior colour options Legend Grey or Midnight Black are complemented by roof and mirror caps and Sport Stripes in Black. The John Cooper Works trim stands out with unique design features of the Grille, Bumpers, Side Skirts, Rear Spoiler and Door Entry Sills. The JCW Aerodynamic styling, JCW Sports stripes in Black, Black Roof rails offer a dynamic appearance. The Piano Black Exterior Trim and wheel arches add to the sporty look of the car. The 19-inch JCW Runway Spoke Black alloy wheels further elevate the sharp character.
The striking appearance of the car is enhanced by three selectable Signatures Modes (Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works) for the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) of the LED headlights and the redesigned matrix rear lights. All three modes begin and end with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation. The intelligent High Beam Assistant takes care not to blind oncoming traffic during night-time driving.
Minimalist design, digital innovations and immersive user experience are the hallmarks of the interior. The sportiness is elevated with JCW Sports Seats, Vescin/Cord combination JCW Black upholstery and JCW Dashboard Trim. Electric seat adjustment with Active Seat for the driver is available as standard. The JCW Steering Wheel with paddle shifters adds to the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. The Headliner Anthracite elevates aesthetics inside the cockpit. The dashboard and door panels are completely chrome-free and leather-free, using recycled 2D knitted fabric lining. The textile surface is made luminescent by ambient lighting and projections from the MINI Interaction Unit that make even rush hour relaxing. The panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and spacious atmosphere.
The focal point of the cockpit in the MINI Countryman SE All4 is the round OLED display. The central instrument with a diameter of 240 mm and a high-quality glass surface simultaneously controls the infotainment and assistance systems. With the new MINI Operating System 9, all vehicle functions can be operated intuitively via touch or voice assistant. The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. A Fisheye Camera can capture selfies, fun moments and videos with sound, inside the cabin and is capable of transfers via a QR code. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System is an aural treat. Other features include Navigation, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Teleservices, In-Car Weather and Intelligent Emergency Call.
With the MINI Experience Modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.
A distinctive Toggle Bar Island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged.
The versatile and powerful electric drive makes it a perfect companion for unbridled driving fun even off the beaten track. With 313 hp and a maximum torque of 494 Nm, the new MINI Countryman SE All4 sprints from 0-100 km in just 5.6 seconds. It has a top speed of 180 kmph. The standard all-wheel drive system distributes its power precisely and reliably, providing the sporty SUV with sufficient grip and traction even in challenging conditions. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery with gross capacity of 66.45 kWh and has ample WLTP* driving range (combined) of up to 440 kms. The new MINI Countryman SE All4 also ensures fast and hassle-free charging. Charging time is – 130 kW DC Charger – 10 to 80% in 29 min (100 km top up range in 8 min) and 22kW AC – 0 to 100% in 3 hrs 45 min. (*WLTP = Worldwide harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure). JCW Sport Brakes impress with direct response and a better pedal feel.
Advanced assistance systems such as Cruise Control and Parking Assistant Plus with 360 degree Camera increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With Comfort Access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters.
The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The wide range of alloy wheels depending on the variant, radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled Aluminium.
The standard SAFETY equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator.
Bentley Motors today announced a series of updates to its forward-thinking Beyond100+ strategy, reflecting current market and customer perspectives. In a press conference streamed live from Bentley’s home in Crewe, and the future assembly line of Bentley’s first fully-electric car, Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, outlined a revised product cadence plan that includes extending the offer of internal combustion-engined as well as plug-in hybridised models.
Creating an entirely new segment with the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV, the all-new Bentley – designed, developed and produced in Crewe – is on track to be launched towards the end of 2026, with deliveries to markets during 2027. The as yet unnamed model will be incremental to Bentley’s current offering, less than five metres in length and promises a true Bentley driving experience and the craftsmanship expected of the marque, with industry-leading technology that includes the capability of charging from 0 – 100 miles in less than seven minutes. Development of the car continues at pace with pre-series, or prototype, vehicles embarking on a global performance programme.
Furthermore, hybridised Bentley models, today offered in both High and Ultra-Performance Engines in Continental GT coupe, Convertible and Flying Spur, would be available until at least 2035 meaning that Bentley’s previous target of being exclusively electric by that milestone could be extended. Another internal combustion engined model, the Bentayga Speed, was added to the range earlier in 2025 and in the same conference, Bentley revealed that a new non-hybridised and limited production performance model would be announced before the end of this year. It also didn’t rule out further similarly-engined cars to follow as it continues to maintain powertrain flexibility in line with customer demand across its global markets.
Commenting following the announcement, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said: “Today’s updates to our Beyond100+ strategy reaffirm Bentley’s commitment to progress — responsibly and sustainably. We are evolving our product cadence to reflect the realities of a changing world and a dynamic marketplace. By extending introducing new internal combustion engined models, and offering hybrid powertrains until at least 2035, we are ensuring that every Bentley customer can continue to experience the full breadth of our performance and craftsmanship.
“Our first fully electric Bentley, the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV, represents a bold step forward, it embodies our vision for sustainable luxury and technological excellence. With industry-leading charging capability and unmistakable Bentley character and design, it marks the beginning of an exciting new era for our brand – a future defined by innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability.”
Beyond100+ also endures a fundamental reinvention of the Crewe manufacturing infrastructure, and helps secure Bentley’s future at Crewe for the next generation of products and colleagues.
The company has already made enormous strides in reinventing the historic Crewe site, creating an industry-leading certified carbon neutral facility, and as the oldest building, named A1, prepares to assemble Bentley’s first electric car, the Dream Factory is closer to nearing completion.
The largest self-funded site investment programme in Bentley’s history continues with a new state-of-the-art Paint Shop due to open in 2026. This follows a new Design Centre and Integrated Logistics Centre, both opened earlier this year, transforming an 87-year-old site for a new age of electrification, and a new benchmark in next generation, digital, flexible and high-value manufacturing operations.
BLive EZY, India’s leading e-mobility platform offering EV as a service for last-mile delivery catering to e-commerce and quick commerce companies like Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, and Blinkit, has announced the launch of its operation in Kolkata. The company plans to deploy 5,000 electric 2W and 3W vehicles (EVs) over the next 36 months, marking a major step toward sustainable and carbon-free deliveries in Kolkata.
With over 3 million deliveries fulfilled daily and nearly 1 lakh delivery partners on the road, Kolkata stands as one of India’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets in India. Yet, EV penetration for deliveries remains below 2%, signalling a vast opportunity for electrification. Through its successful EZY franchise model, BLive aims to create 50+ EV Franchisees, driving rapid EV adoption while enabling entrepreneurship.
Franchise Model: Profitable, Scalable, and Hassle-Free
BLive EZY’s growth is driven by its franchise model, which allows individuals and EV entrepreneurs to participate in India’s booming EV revolution. With an investment starting at INR 25 lakhs, franchisees can own a fleet of electric two-wheelers and earn assured monthly rentals. This fleet is deployed with leading delivery platforms like Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy.
The model offers investors a profitable business opportunity — BLive manages end-to-end operations, including deployment, maintenance and rider management — allowing franchise partners to earn 2X return on their investment within 48 months, right from the comfort of their homes. The entire fleet operation is efficiently managed on BLive’s AI-powered “Smart Fleet” tech platform, allowing vehicle tracking, digital rider onboarding, and digital payments and real-time vehicle data.
Driving Green Deliveries and Sustainable Livelihoods
BLive EZY’s entry into Kolkata aligns with its mission to enable green deliveries and sustainable livelihoods. The platform’s end-to-end EV ecosystem ensures seamless operations for enterprises and delivery riders, combining smart fleet technology with predictive analytics and real-time tracking.
“Kolkata represents the next big leap in India’s EV growth story. With high delivery volumes and increasing demand for sustainable logistics, this is the right time for businesses and individuals to invest in clean mobility,” said Sandeep Mukherjee, CEO & Co-Founder, BLive. “Our model makes EV adoption simple, scalable, and profitable — a win for entrepreneurs, enterprises, and the environment.”
Nissan Motor India announced a significant milestone in its export operations with the export of its 1.2 millionth vehicle from India. This accomplishment underscores Nissan’s steadfast commitment to its ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ philosophy and reaffirms India’s pivotal role as a strategic export hub for the company in the AMIEO region. The 1.2 millionth vehicle, a New Nissan Magnite B-SUV destined for the GCC region, was ceremoniously flagged off by Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, at the Kamarajar Port, Ennore, Tamil Nadu.
Since the commencement of its export operations, Nissan Motor India has shipped a diverse range of models including the Nissan Magnite, Nissan Sunny, Nissan Kicks and Nissan Micra, catering to global markets across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. The arrival of the New Nissan Magnite significantly increased the global footprint of Nissan Motor India’s export strategy in both LHD and RHD covering our 65 countries.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “We are proud to celebrate yet another historic milestone of exporting 1.2 million Nissan vehicles from India. This achievement reflects the collective dedication of our teams and the trust of customers across the world in our Made-in-India cars. The Nissan Magnite continues to be a global success story, representing our focus on design, quality, and innovation that transcends borders.”
The New Nissan Magnite has been recognized among the safest B-SUVs, earning a prestigious 5-star Global NCAP rating for Adult Occupant Protection and 3 stars for Child Occupant Protection. With its bold design, over 20 first and best-in-segment features, and 55+ safety features, the Magnite continues to set benchmarks in the compact SUV segment.
Proudly Made in India, the New Nissan Magnite embodies Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy and is now sold in over 65 countries across both right-hand and left-hand drive markets, showcasing India’s manufacturing excellence on a global stage. The company is also gearing up for the upcoming launch of its new global C-SUV, the Nissan Tekton, which will be introduced in India next year and also exported to select international markets.
CARS24 has announced a bold step that redefines accountability in the pre-owned car industry, the launch of India’s first-ever 30-Day Return Policy. With this, buyers can return their car within 30 days or 999 km if it doesn’t meet their expectations, a first for the Indian market and a move that directly ties product confidence to customer trust.
Conversations with thousands of car owners and first-time buyers revealed a consistent truth, when it comes to pre-owned cars, peace of mind matters just as much as price. Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions for most families and people want the assurance that what they are driving is truly dependable, not just on day one but after they have lived with it. The 30-Day Return Guarantee was designed to close that trust gap and give buyers the time, space and confidence to know they’ve made the right choice.
India’s pre-owned car market, valued at over INR 3 lakh crore and growing nearly three times faster than new car sales, has long faced a single barrier: uncertainty around quality. CARS24 is tackling that challenge with rigour and transparency. Every car undergoes 300+ quality checks for performance, safety and structural integrity and only about 15% of inspected cars make it to the retail lineup, the rest are filtered out at the quality gate.
To make quality measurable, CARS24 uses AI-led inspection technology that can detect even micro-level defects invisible to the human eye. Each car is certified through Cartruth, the company’s proprietary inspection framework that ensures consistent standards of quality across every city in India.
“Trust has always been the hardest currency in this business,” said Himanshu Ratnoo, CEO, CARS24 India. “Even new car manufacturers don’t let you live with a car for a month and return it if it doesn’t feel right. We’re doing that because we’re so sure of our quality and because accountability should start with us. We stand behind every car we sell. The 30-Day Return Guarantee sets a higher standard for trust, one that proves quality through experience. We can offer it because we are certain our customers won’t ever have to return the car”
The process is simple. Customers have 30 days to experience their car. If it doesn’t meet expectations, they can raise a request through the CARS24 app or email. After a quick reinspection, the car is picked up and the refund processed within days.
With this move, CARS24 becomes the first company in India to bring e-commerce-like consumer protection to the auto space. As the used car market grows at nearly three times the rate of new car sales, initiatives like these could shape a new era of confidence-led car buying where quality is proven through experience, not promises.
Oliver Blume will remain at the helm of the Volkswagen Group in the coming years. The Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft resolved on Friday to conclude a new agreement with Mr. Blume for a term of five years, starting on January 1, 2026. This means Mr. Blume will continue as Volkswagen AG’s CEO until the end of 2030. Mr. Blume has held this post since September 1, 2022.
“In the last three years, Oliver Blume has impressively demonstrated his ability to advance and develop the Volkswagen Group’s strategy and business operations in a challenging environment. The Supervisory Board is confident that, with Mr. Blume on board, it will continue to successfully tackle the tasks ahead together with the Board of Management team,” said the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Hans Dieter Pötsch.
Kia Corporation has officially extended its partnership with tennis legend Rafael (‘Rafa’) Nadal, continuing an authentic affiliation that has grown to transcend mere sponsorship over the last 21 years. The announcement is being celebrated by Nadal’s visit to Korea, where he has been participating in events for both tennis prospects and fans under the theme “The Road Ahead.”
The brand’s partnership with Rafa began in 2004, when Kia Spain chose to sponsor the up-and-coming athlete. Following his first Grand Slam success at the 2005 French Open, Kia officially appointed Nadal as global brand ambassador in 2006. The champion’s values of resilience and constant self-improvement were in clear alignment with Kia’s values.
This week, Nadal returned to Korea for the first time since 2013 to celebrate the renewal of his enduring partnership with Kia. The renewal ceremony was held today at Kia Unplugged Ground, the company’s flagship brand space in Seongsu, Seoul, providing an opportunity to look back on the history of Kia and Nadal, their shared journey, and the values they hold in common.
“Kia and Rafael Nadal have shared a spirit of determination and a passion for the sport of tennis since we first joined hands in 2004,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia Corporation. “As we set out on a new chapter of our journey together, Kia will continue to build on our partnership with Rafael Nadal to bring positive inspiration to fans and young athletes around the world.”
“I would like to thank the Kia family for their enduring support and friendship throughout our 21 years together,” said Rafael Nadal. “Our partnership began when I was very young and has lasted over two decades, a powerful statement of our shared values. Going forward, I am sure we will continue to work together and inspire each other toward growth and innovation. The future awaits for both and we will work the future for the next generation both on and off the courts.”
Prior to the ceremony, a junior tennis program with Korea’s top 20 junior players was held yesterday at Tenez Park in Walkerhill Hotel. An exclusive tennis clinic was conducted by coaches from the Rafa Nadal Academy, where two players with outstanding performances were selected to participate in the High Performance Tennis Junior Camp in Spain next year.
Later today, a special event will be held for tennis fans and influencers to commemorate the new journey of Kia and Nadal. The fans, selected through a social media challenge, will have the opportunity to meet Rafa in person and discover insights into his life, career, and the inspiration he gained from tennis through a Q&A session.
Finally, a pop-up event is being held at Kia Unplugged Ground until November 9, allowing customers to relive Kia and Rafa’s partnership journey firsthand. The space has been redesigned into a celebratory showcase of both Nadal’s career highlights and the history of his affiliation with Kia. Visitors will also be able to view the spacious Kia PV5 Passenger and EV9 ‘GT-Line’, the vehicle that Nadal personally drives.
Kia has been a long supporter of the game of tennis through its various sports marketing activities over the years. Earlier this year, the company partnered with the Australian Open as the Major Partner of AO25 for the 24th consecutive year, further extending its track record as the longest-running major partner in the history of the tournament.
BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new-energy vehicles, is proud to announce its latest model in Europe with Super Hybrid with DM technology: the ATTO 2 DM-i, a ground-breaking compact SUV that blends an EV driving experience with up to 1020 kilometres of combined range.
Proven by the success of the SEAL U DM-i, the best-selling plug-in hybrid model in several key European markets, Super Hybrid with DM technology gives the ATTO 2 DM-i the power to redefine the compact-SUV segment. It can travel for up to 90 kilometres on electric power alone, a feat unrivalled in its class. And the intelligent powertrain (DM-i stands for Dual Mode-intelligent) maximises efficiency on longer journeys by choosing hybrid modes as required. With a fully charged battery and a full tank of petrol, this can take the ATTO 2 DM-i more than 1000 kilometres – comfortably greater range than not only hybrid and mild-hybrid rivals but also conventional combustion-powered compact SUVs.
Two versions of the ATTO 2 DM-i will be available, offering different battery sizes, EV and overall range, power outputs and performance, and the car will feature subtle design tweaks to set it apart from pure-electric versions of the ATTO 2. These changes include a larger middle front grille, decorative lower elements in the front bumper, the removal of the side vents in the front wings and resigned badging on the tailgate. There will also be a new exterior colour, Midnight Blue, that will be unique to the DM-i variant.
The BYD ATTO 2 DM-i will make its European debut at this week’s Fleet Europe Days event in Luxembourg, before being introduced to media in November. Pre-sales will begin soon after, with first deliveries expected from the opening quarter of 2026.
Power Drive 