Markus Haupt confirmed as Chief Executive Officer of SEAT and CUPRA

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The Supervisory Board of SEAT and CUPRA, chaired by Thomas Schäfer – Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Brand Group Core, and CEO of the Volkswagen brand – has appointed Markus Haupt as the new Chief Executive Officer of SEAT and CUPRA, effective immediately. Haupt has been serving as interim CEO since April 1, and now, with the full support of the company’s Executive Committee, formally assumes the position on a permanent basis.

“Markus brings over two decades of experience across multiple brands and countries within the Group,” said Thomas Schäfer, Chair of the SEAT and CUPRA Supervisory Board. “His deep expertise in production, logistics, and strategic planning makes him the ideal leader to drive the company’s electrification strategy and CUPRA’s continued growth. Having successfully led the transformation of SEAT and CUPRA’s facilities in preparation for the Electric Urban Car family, he is perfectly positioned to shape the brands’ future,” he added.

Markus Haupt takes the helm at a crucial juncture as the company accelerates its electrification. Since joining as Executive Vice-President for Production and Logistics in 2022, Haupt has driven a transformative shift, including a €3 billion investment to electrify the Martorell plant. Guided by his vision and expertise, the company has led the groundbreaking Electric Urban Car family project with four models from three brands in two plants on behalf of the Brand Group Core. This initiative is set to make electromobility more accessible, with the highly anticipated CUPRA Raval -the first model to roll off the production line- launching in March 2026 and paving the way for a new era of urban electric mobility.

“My passion for cars began early and has guided my career, from working on prototypes at the Volkswagen Group to now leading SEAT and CUPRA as CEO. I am honoured to steer the company through its most significant transformation, including the launch of groundbreaking models like the CUPRA Raval and our shift toward electrification. Together with the Executive Committee and our teams, I am confident we will write a new chapter of growth in the company’s history,” said Markus Haupt upon his new appointment. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Oliver Blume, Thomas Schäfer, and the Board of the Volkswagen Group for placing their trust in me with this exciting challenge. I’m equally grateful to SEAT and CUPRA’s Executive Committee for being exceptional teammates and constant sources of inspiration. Together, I’m confident we will achieve remarkable things,” he added.

With over 20 years of experience within the Volkswagen Group, Markus Haupt has held leadership roles across multiple brands and countries. After studying and graduating in Barcelona, he began his career in 2001 in SEAT and quickly advanced, playing a key role in the launch of the Audi Q3 at the Martorell plant. He later led major production projects, including the Volkswagen Group’s A0 platform in Wolfsburg and the launch of the T-Roc in Palmela, actively contributing to the Group’s transition toward electric mobility.

A passionate racing enthusiast, Haupt is German with Spanish descent and has deep personal and professional ties to Spain. He previously served as President of Volkswagen Navarra and General Manager of the Landaben plant in Pamplona, where he successfully introduced a third model for the first time in the factory’s history, before returning to Barcelona in 2022.

Positioning the company for long-term success
As one of the company’s key strategic pillars, the company remains firmly focused on CUPRA’s growth, now with a fully-fledged portfolio and a growing global fanbase. CUPRA has already sold over 950,000 cars globally and is on track to reach one million total deliveries in the coming weeks. As CEO, Haupt now leads the company at a time when the sales continue to gain momentum. SEAT S.A. sales grew in the first 8 months of 2025, driven by CUPRA’s success. The brand continues to break boundaries, and between January and August 2025, CUPRA delivered 216,000 vehicles, marking a 36% increase compared to the same period last year.

This momentum comes amid a complex industry landscape. “There will be challenges ahead, but I’m sure that with a shared vision, a commitment to transformation and a unified team going in the same direction, we will be successful. We are on the cusp of exciting changes, as we transition towards electrification. That’s a future I’ve always believed in, and it’s one that we will work harder than ever to achieve.” Haupt said.

CUPRA is now preparing to take bold steps beyond its current boundaries. This announcement comes at a key moment for the company, as CUPRA builds on growth momentum -volume, markets and portfolio- ahead of the launch of the CUPRA Raval. Following its ambition to become one of Spain’s truly global brands,​ CUPRA will build on the strong success it has achieved in existing key territories and will soon expand into new high-potential markets to broaden its global footprint. The brand is investigating new growth opportunities in the Middle East, a region that offers CUPRA a unique opportunity as it is quite close to Europe and it’s one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

Along with CUPRA, the SEAT brand remains a cornerstone of the company’s present and future strategy. As one of the most recognised Spanish brands, with over 21 million vehicles produced since 1950 and more than 172,700 units sold in 2025 (January-August), SEAT has been instrumental in shaping the company into the economic and automotive powerhouse that it is today. Now, it is poised to enter a new era in its history with the upcoming World Premiere of its bestselling models, the SEAT Ibiza and Arona.

“We stand at the beginning of an exciting new chapter for SEAT S.A. As one company with two complementary brands, we are better prepared than ever to lead the future of mobility, continuing to inspire through innovation and the passion that has always defined us,” Haupt said.

Change needs drivers and SEAT S.A. is steering the future of mobility. As the only company in Spain that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets cars, SEAT S.A. is a cornerstone of the nation’s automotive industry and the driving force behind its electrification.

As the company undertakes the biggest transformation in its 75-year history, SEAT S.A. is turning Spain into a European hub for electric vehicles. Through the Future: Fast Forward project, and in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group, PowerCo, and other partners, the company has invested €10 billion into the country’s electrification. The company is also leading the Electric Urban Car project for the Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group Core and will begin producing 100% electric vehicles, including the CUPRA Raval, at its Martorell plant from 2026.

A member of the Volkswagen Group, SEAT S.A. sells vehicles under the SEAT and CUPRA brands including the iconic SEAT Ibiza and the company’s bestselling model, the CUPRA Formentor. With 14,000 professionals and three production centres in Martorell, El Prat de Llobregat, and Barcelona, the company exports over 80% of its vehicles to more than 70 countries.

Jawa Yezdi Makes Its Premium Classic Motorcycles Irresistible For India’s Riding Community

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Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles is going live with a compelling range of offers geared to celebrate its customers this festive season and make their festivities even more memorable. It is extending an industry-first pre-booking price of INR 999 on a product range that has made the company the biggest gainer from GST 2.0 rationalisation in the world’s largest motorcycle market.

Ranging from variants such as Adventure, Roadster, Bobber, to the Scrambler, eight models are now available for below INR 2 lakh (between INR 1.59 lakh and 1.99 lakh). Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles either have a 293cc or a 334cc Alpha2 liquid-cooled engine. The latter outperforms its 350cc competitor bikes with 42 percent more power at 29PS (and supplies 30Nm of torque).

As the GST 2.0 reforms took effect from September 22, the company passed on 100 percent of the tax reduction benefit (from 28 percent to 18 percent) to buyers of its performance classic motorcycles with engines 350cc and below. The irresistible INR 999 offer is available at three dealerships in Kolkata. It increases the customer’s chance to reserve their favourite iconic Jawa or Yezdi motorcycle before stocks run out in the festive rush. The company already has 21 dealerships across as many cities in West Bengal.

Anupam Thareja, Co-Founder, Classic Legends stated, “We are thrilled to launch the Yezdi Roadster in the heart of the City of Joy. If there’s one market that doesn’t follow fads, it’s Kolkata. This city values ideas that endure. For the people here, emotion is an insight, not an impulse, and reason completes the purchase. We are not chasing fads either, we’re here to contemporise classics. These motorcycles are nostalgic yet resilient like a monsoon ride through Howrah Bridge, turning the ordinary into legend. The people of the city see both the heart and the engineering behind our performance classics. Kolkata’s charming chaos, with its sub-cultures of poets and pandals, mirrors our ride: Powerful, raw, and eternally cool. I can say from the response to our new Yezdis and the award-winning Jawa 42 FJ this festive season that motorcycling as a way of life is here to stay, much like the city’s love for football, food, and art.”

The company has expanded its sales and service footprint to over 450 across India, for worry-free access and easy maintenance. With a cut in the cost of after-sales components post-GST 2.0, its patrons will enjoy significant reduction the cost of ownership of Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles. All of the machines are backed the ‘Jawa Yezdi BSA Ownership Assurance Programme’ an industry-first initiative in this segment. The comprehensive programme includes a 4-year/50,000-km standard warranty, extended coverage options of up to six years, one year of roadside assistance, and a range of ownership benefits reflecting the company’s confidence in its engineering excellence and long-term reliability of its machines.

Spreading the festive cheer among motorcycling purists is BSA Motorcycles with the Gold Star, which had set a new benchmark in 650cc engine refinement by which large single-cylinders are now measured. BSA Motorcycles is absorbing the post-GST 2.0 tax hike and offering the Gold Star starting at INR 3,09,990. Buyers will also receive an exclusive limited-edition accessory kit worth INR 5,900, featuring a tall touring windscreen, a pillion backrest, a metal exhaust shield, and a rear rail adding both purpose and style.

With the series of irresistible offers, Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles and BSA Motorcycles are telling aspirants of their high-fashion retro machines with segment-busting designs, world-class engineering, and performance technology optimised for Indian roads to get off the beaten path and ahead of the rush.

Price list:

BrandModel (Starting price)Old PriceNew Price Post GST 2.0Savings
Jawa42Rs.1,72,942Rs.1,59,431     Rs. 13,511
Jawa350Rs.1,98,950Rs.1,83,407     Rs. 15,543
Jawa42 BobberRs.2,09,500Rs.1,93,133     Rs. 16,367
Jawa42 FJRs.2,10,142Rs.1,93,725     Rs. 16,417
YezdiRoadsterRs.2,09,969Rs.1,93,565     Rs. 16,404
YezdiAdventureRs.2,14,900Rs.1,98,111     Rs. 16,789
YezdiScramblerRs.2,11,900Rs.1,95,345     Rs. 16,555

Aston Martin DB12 S Unveiled

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Aston Martin is proud to announce a new DB12 halo model, the DB12 S. Taking the thrilling, driver-focussed DB12 as its start point, DB12 S builds on that pioneering recipe of intensely dynamic ultra-luxury performance by adding more power and even greater dynamic prowess. Together with striking exterior changes and extensive interior enhancements, DB12 S is the new pinnacle of Super Tourer.

Joining DBX S and Vantage S, DB12 S is the latest to honour Aston Martin’s long tradition of applying the ‘S’ suffix to the highest performing derivative of an established model. This custom began in 1953 with the glorious DB3S road racer. More recent examples include the first and second generation Vanquish S – launched in 2004 and 2016 respectively – V8 and V12 Vantage S models introduced in 2011 and 2013, and the magnificent four-seater Rapide S, also launched in 2013.

The heart of the DB12 S is an even more potent version of the formidable Aston Martin 4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8. Now with 700PS @ 6000rpm – an increase of 20PS – and 800Nm delivered between 3000 and 6000rpm, the DB12 S offers scintillating response, relentless acceleration and a 202mph top speed.

In keeping with this intensified spirit, DB12 S features a distinctive new exhaust sound character. The new quad tailpipe stainless steel sports exhaust system has been tuned to accentuate the engine frequencies throughout the rev range for added depth and potency. An optional titanium exhaust system amplifies that soundtrack, further boosting the bass, mid and treble frequencies uplifting the sound level by 1.5dB. while also reducing weight by 11.7kg compared to the stainless steel system.

Calibration changes to the powertrain have optimised the Launch Control system, reducing gearshift times by more than 50% and contributing to a 0.1sec improvement in 0-60mph time, which is now just 3.4 seconds. Aston Martin engineers have further honed the throttle pedal calibration, introducing a more progressive throttle pedal feel with a new S-specific drive-by-wire throttle map to give the driver an even greater sense of connection and control.

An extensive package of chassis changes, target a commensurate increase in the driver’s sense of agility, connection and precision together with improvements in feel and composure. Software changes to the Bilstein DTX dampers to improve roll and pitch control work in harmony with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and finessed camber, toe and castor geometry settings. Combining these changes bring improvements in front-end confidence and overall agility feel.

Additional tuning of the steering calibration and electronic rear differential (E-diff) has enabled Aston Martin’s chassis engineers to dial-in further connection and response for even more natural and intuitive feel. With the ability to use more throttle earlier in the corner for maximum satisfaction from corner entry to exit, DB12 S achieves an impeccable balance of agility and exploitability, together with an underlying stability for ultimate confidence and enjoyment.

Another significant upgrade for the DB12 S is the standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB). Offering increased braking performance and thermal capacity together with a significant reduction in unsprung weight, the CCBs – 410mm diameter at the front, 360mm at the rear – combine linear brake response and consistent pedal feel with exceptional resistance to fade. They also save 27kg of unsprung weight compared to steel brakes, which brings benefits to ride quality, steering feel and dynamic handling behaviour.

The DB12 S also benefits from the next generation of corner braking control system (CBC), which optimises interaction between the Integrated Brake Slip Control and the Integrated Vehicle Control modules. A predictive function within the CBC allows the car to maintain optimum stability while trail braking into a corner, using more of the rear braking performance to maintain a tighter line from corner entry to apex.

This system allows the driver to brake later and with improved stability, the Integrated Brake Slip Control system providing torque vectoring across the rear axle to provide predictable, precise and consistent cornering behaviour in all driving environments, from twisting country roads, high-speed highway junction exits or driving on a racetrack.

Aston Martin Director of Vehicle Performance, Simon Newton said “The technology we introduced with the DB12 now allows us exceptional scope to explore a new depth of character and capability within the same vehicle platform. With DB12 S we have carefully engineered a host of detailed changes, which, preserve signature levels of refinement, boost vehicle performance and amplify driver engagement. Having added this greater dynamic and performance bandwidth to DB12 S, we believe this elevates the Super Tourer ethos to a thrilling new level.”

Visually, the new DB12 S reflects its significantly bolstered performance and sporting feel with a striking new look. Starting at the front, the DB12 S is identified by new dual element front splitter and new bonnet louvres, with each performing a functional and aesthetic role.

The splitter visually lowers and widens the DB12 S to create a more assertive look, while also generating downforce and guiding airflow in and around the front wheel arches to stabilise airflow and further reduce lift. The bonnet louvres – finished in gloss black or optional 2×2 Twill Carbon Fibre – aid extraction of hot air from the ‘hot-V’ configured 4.0-litre V8 while completing DB12 S’s more aggressive frontal aspect.

Moving to the flanks, DB12 S features gloss black sill additions. These continue the line formed by the new front splitter, further enhancing the ground-hugging stance. DB12 S also continues the tradition of carrying S badges in key locations. Specifically, on the fenders just below each side strake. Featuring a hand-made, in either bright or dark chrome, forged ‘S’ badge completed with red glass enamel, it is a discreet but enduring mark of performance.

The rear design of the DB12 S makes an emphatic statement, capturing the essence of boosted power, sharpened dynamics and an unforgettable soundtrack. Once again aerodynamics play a major role, the fixed rear spoiler adding drama and increasing high speed stability. Below sits the new rear diffuser, which reduces lift while allowing space for the DB12 S signature stacked pairs of exhaust tailpipes, which are framed within a broader rear bumper for maximum visual impact.

In common with its ‘S’ badged stablemates in the revitalised Aston Martin range, the interior of DB12 S features a host of distinguishing details unique to the halo model. Foremost amongst these is a red anodised finish to the knurled metal drive mode rotary controller, which also informs the colour of the seatbelts, contrast seat welts, contrast stitching and headrest embroidery.

Amongst the enticing options offered on DB12 S are an Alcantara® heated sports steering wheel, and the iconic Aston Martin wings applied to the seat headrests by an industry-first technique using both embossing and debossing for unprecedented precision and sculptural depth.

DB12 S comes with a choice of three interior trim environments; Accelerate leather and Alcantara trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather and Alcantara and Inspire S full semi-aniline leather. Both Inspire S packages include S Herringbone quilting with micro-perforations and an Alcantara headlining. DB12 S is fitted with 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats as standard, plus the option of a Carbon Fibre Performance seat.

DB12 S is available to order now, in Coupe and Volante form, with deliveries commencing in Q1 2026.

First Look At The All-New Tekton In India – Nissan’s Latest C-SUV

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Nissan Motor India today revealed the name and offered a tantalizing preview of the design for the newest edition to the global SUV lineup: the All-New Nissan Tekton.

A name that reflects Nissan’s ambition

The name “Tekton” is of Greek origin, meaning “craftsman” or “architect”. It aligns with Nissan’s ethos of precision engineering and innovation that enriches lives. The name signifies a powerful, premium C-SUV that embodies engineering excellence, performance, and a distinctive design identity. The Tekton will be a choice for those who are “shaping their world” through their careers, passions, or lifestyles.

Ahead of its full unveiling and start of sales in 2026, the Tekton is designed and engineered to disrupt the C-SUV segment. It will be the second product under Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy, manufactured in partnership with Renault at the Chennai plant for sale within India and future export to select global markets.

Design and Inspiration

Nissan’s newest SUV, the Tekton, draws design inspiration from the company’s longest-running and most iconic SUV, the terrain conquering Patrol. When it arrives next year, it will combine bold aesthetics with robust reliability, premium craftsmanship, and a suite of advanced tech features.

At the front, a powerfully sculpted bonnet and distinctive C-shaped head lamp signature—reminiscent of the Patrol—pair with robust lower bumper to create a commanding and imposing presence that belies the vehicle’s size.

The side profile features an imposing, muscular stance, designed to create an unmistakable silhouette on the road. Paying Homage, the front doors of the Tekton feature a ‘Double-C’ shaped accent, incorporating a subtle mountain range motif inspired by the Himalayas.

At the rear, a red illuminated lightbar spans the width of the vehicle, conveying a sense of sturdiness and connecting the ‘C-shaped’ dynamic tail-lamps. The Tekton nameplate is prominently displayed across the tailgate below.

Alfonso Albaisa, Corporate Executive, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd says, “The All-New Nissan Tekton draws its design inspiration from our legendary Nissan Patrol. It is designed to disrupt, dominate, and deliver everything today’s modern Indian consumer desires. Imposing, stylish, and built to set a new benchmark in India and beyond, the design and build quality are distinctly Nissan—embodying the best of Nissan’s SUV DNA.”

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor in India, comments, “The All-New Nissan Tekton is going to be at the centre of the Nissan’s resurgence story and offers a glimpse into the future of our product portfolio in the country. With its commanding stance, bold looks and premium interiors, we are confident that it will be a segment disruptor, appealing to customers seeking a robust yet refined C-SUV. This model will spearhead Nissan’s growth story in India.”

The Tekton will be key to Nissan Motor India’s plans to strengthen its presence and expand its product portfolio in the country. As part of this growth, Nissan Motor India is rapidly expanding its dealership network.

Shell Lubricants Launches A Range Of High-Performance Automotive Lubricants

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Shell Lubricants India has launched three cutting-edge lubricant products, developed using world-class technology, to meet a diverse range of customer needs — from passenger cars and two-wheelers to pickup trucks. These new offerings underscore Shell’s commitment to delivering exceptional technical excellence across its product portfolio.

The range of new products include:

Shell Spirax S4 GX 75W90 – Shell Spirax S4 GX 75W90 engineered using a blend of high-quality base oils, viscosity improvers, and a unique additive package stands out as the only Shell Branded product globally in this specific viscosity. It is also India’s first Shell Branded synthetic gear oil under the Spirax category. Designed for manual transmissions in passenger cars and LCVs, it provides superior gearbox protection, smoother gear shifts, and long-term cost savings. Approved under API GL-4 and ZF-TE-ML-08 standards, it is compatible with a wide range of OEMs including Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, among others. The product comes in 1L and 2.5L packaging at the MRP of INR 540 and INR 1300 respectively.

Shell Advance AX6 5W30 -Targeted at the growing BS VI scooter market, Shell Advance AX6 5W30 delivers comprehensive 360-degree protection for daily commuters. Formulated with advanced synthetic technology, it offers robust performance under demanding urban conditions, including heavy traffic and frequent stop-start riding. The striking black colour 600 ml bottle made is from 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) material and is priced at INR 355 and will be available nationwide.

Shell Rimula Pick-Up – Shell Rimula Pick-Up is a customized engine oil crafted and tested specifically for pickup trucks navigating city traffic, offering superior performance and extended drain intervals. The product range comes in 5L and 7L packaging, for both BS IV & BS VI engines priced at INR 2040 and INR 2765 (15W-40 variant) / INR 3150 (10W-30, BS6-compliant variant) respectively and is launched nationwide.

Shell Lubricants recently launched the new Shell Helix Ultra, engineered to deliver ultimate performance and protection. Powered by Shell’s exclusive PurePlus Technology — which converts natural gas into 99.5% pure base oil — the product offers up to 1.8% more engine power, 3.4% improved responsiveness, and 100% engine power retention. These benefits translate into a smoother drive, improved fuel efficiency, and long-term engine health, reinforcing Shell’s commitment to innovation and performance excellence.

Souradeep Dutta And Ibrahim Ali Shaikh Claim Calcutta By Night ’25 Title

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Calcutta By Night was started by Partha Sadhan Bose who was a well-known rallyist, a true lover of motor sports and a collector & restorer of vintage cars. His son, Deborshi Sadhan Bose popularly known as ‘Billy’ is carrying the family legacy forward. He has restarted the event and has committed to make it into an annual motor sports affair.

Over the past couple of years, Calcutta By Night has gradually developed into a ‘much-looked-forward-to-event’ in the city’s motor sports calendar year being one of the few night rallies. Along with challenges for both driver and navigator, this event also promotes ‘Safe Drive, Safe Night’ with the main focus of passing on the message that our ‘City of Joy’ is a safe city.

The main objective of this event also focuses on promoting motor sports in the Corporate’ and ‘Social Club category along with the traditional Expert, Amateur, Novice, Ladies and Couple categories. This year, there was a special category for Sister Nivedita University, one of the patrons of this event. A total of 46 teams took part in this event making it one of the biggest TSD car rallies of the eastern region.

The team of Souradeep Dutta and Ibrahim Ali Shaikh emerged overall winners of the Calcutta By Night 2025. The team of Aniruddha Sk. & Alivia and the husband-wife duo of Sk. Ajgar Ali and Rehana Ali Sk. finished second and third respectively separated by only 5 penalty points. The team of Amit Kumar Saha and Suvrajit Dutta secured the fourth position; while the duo of Subhodev Chatterjee and Saptarshi Basu rounded up the top five positions in the overall ranking. The event spread across two night legs proved to be mighty exciting leaving all the competitors at the edge of their seats.

Deborshi Sadhan ‘Billy’ Bose said, “EMSAA remains committed to promote motorsports in Bengal by breaking the belief that one needs totally modified cars, by breaking the belief that motorsports is always dangerous. We commit to give our next door neighbour a chance to prove their capability as a driver or navigator in the true spirit of motorsports and assure to do more events in different formats. EMSAA strives to put back Bengal as the home of motor sports as to what it used to be.”

Photographs courtesy: Ranadip Mandal

The BMW G 310 RR Limited Edition Launched In India

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To commemorate the 10,000 unit sales milestone of BMW G 310 RR, BMW Motorrad has launched the BMW G 310 RR Limited Edition in India. The bike is available at all BMW Motorrad India dealerships effective immediately.

The BMW G 310 RR is a true road racing sports bike. It’s performance, agility, precision and raring-to-go flair reveals racing attitude. The agile single-cylinder engine, Ride by Wire, the anti-hopping clutch and the various riding modes are designed for sheer riding pleasure. The limited edition features a range of sporty decals that give it a distinctive and aggressive look. It clearly showcases its S 1000 RR heritage.

The ex-showroom prices of the BMW G 310 RR Limited Edition starts from INR 299,000.

The BMW G 310 RR Limited Edition’s aerodynamic design makes an extremely sporty appearance with its road racing DNA. The decals for the entire body kit including wheel rims add a touch of dynamism and performance to the bikes’ already impressive aesthetics. The ‘1/310’ badging signals the highly exclusive nature of this limited edition. The aerodynamic design is optimized by the full fairing, intelligent dimensions as well as lighter materials that work together to offer agile and precise handling. The Champion’s Dome emphasizes the brand’s racing pedigree and performance capabilities.

Thanks to the Ram Air intake, the oncoming air flow is ideally used, and the gill vents ensure that the hot air is channeled away from the engine. The bike has an aggressive and sharp face with full-led headlights, large transparent visor and pure-black handlebars. The entire fly line is front-wheel oriented. The dynamic front, tank-hugging seating position and a pulled-up short rear visually underline closeness to the racetrack. New high-end details such as the standard gold upside-down fork, aluminum swingarm, handlebars with controls and excellent workmanship reflect the finest within the segment and underscore the stable wheel control with sensitive and precise feedback. The standard Michelin Pilot Street radial tyres fit perfectly with the character by providing ample grip and control.

The first-ever BMW G 310 RR is fitted with a water-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke 312-cc engine with electronic fuel injection. The engine achieves a maximum power of 25kW at 9,700 rpm as well as maximum torque of 27.3 Nm at 7,700 rpm.

The 6-speed gearbox allows ease of engagement of gear and no slippage at higher speeds for precise shifts and launches. The race tuned anti-hopping clutch with self-reinforcement reduces engine braking and significantly increases riding safety – especially during braking manoeuvres with simultaneous downshifts. It also offers reduced operating force at clutch lever.

For ideal adaptation to varied conditions, the 310 RR is fitted with four modes as standard – Track, Urban, Rain and Sport. The Track mode is focused from acceleration to braking where the ABS is adjusted for late braking into bends. Urban mode has balanced acceleration and braking behaviour as the ABS and throttle response are geared towards urban traffic. Sport mode delivers best possible acceleration and maximum deceleration values – with sporty dynamics. Rain mode is paired with Ride by Wire and the ABS reacts highly sensitively to guarantee riding safety and stability control on wet roads.

Ride by Wire system along with E-Gas passes on the commands directly from a sensor on the twist grip to the engine control system resulting in even finer control and throttle response. Thanks to the electromotive throttle controller, automatic idle speed increase when starting also prevents a possible sudden stalling of the engine.

The suspension has a torsionally stiff, highly robust tubular steel frame in grid structure with bolt-on rear frame. The front wheel suspension is taken care of by a solid upside-down fork while at the rear there is an aluminium swinging arm in conjunction with a directly mounted spring strut. The suspension geometry is designed for easy handling, stability and a neutral cornering response, which makes for an active riding character and maximum riding fun.

The new multifunctional 5” TFT display boasts of a very good level of functionality that is synonymous with high-speed riding. Its intuitive framework, high-resolution and clear graphics provide all required information to the rider in an easy-to-understand format. It shows essentials like riding statistics, riding modes, maximum speed, deceleration, temperature etc.

The Infotainment Control Switch offers perfect operability of functions to change the desired modes or views. Depending on the riding mode, the TFT display also customizes the screen with relevant information.

The high-performance brake system with 2-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ensures efficient deceleration and short braking distances. BMW Motorrad ABS prevents the wheels from locking and rear wheel lift-off protection keeps the race bike’s wheels on the track, even when braking late into corners.

Nissan Motor India Confirms E20-Compatible Vehicles And Continued Warranty Protection For New Nissan Magnite Customers

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Nissan Motor India is fully aligned and supportive of the Government’s initiatives focused on alternative fuels and innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Nissan Motor India is committed to advancing these goals through continuous product innovation and sustainable mobility solutions.

The New Nissan Magnite has solidified its reputation as a symbol of quality and safety, earning the prestigious 5-star GNCAP safety rating. Nissan Motor India also recently launched a segment first 10- year warranty programme for the New Magnite that underscores the brand’s long-term commitment towards its customers.

Both available powertrains for the New Nissan Magnite are E20 compliant: 

·        The 1.0L HR10 turbocharged petrol engine is E20 compliant since August 2024.

·        The BR10 naturally aspirated petrol engine is E20 compliant since February 2025. 

Owing to Nissan’s robust engineering and high build quality, all Magnite vehicles — new and existing — are capable of running on E20 fuel; with no significant issues observed. Nissan has ensured full compatibility with the Government of India’s initiative to shift to E20 fuel as part of our shared commitment to the move to greener fuels and lower emissions.

Nissan Motor India confirms that using E20 fuel will not void warranty on New Nissan Magnite vehicles sold after October 2024, and any/ all India manufactured Nissan vehicles with an active warranty.

As a customer-focused company, Nissan Motor India assures all vehicle owners that any issues potentially arising from the transition to E20 fuel, as mandated by the Government of India, will be thoroughly inspected and addressed during routine service appointments.

Volvo EX30 Arrives in Style: Pre-Reserve At INR 39,99,000

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The wait is finally over. Volvo Car India has announced the much-anticipated price of the Volvo EX30, the brand’s most sustainable and stylish electric car. With an introductory ex-showroom price of ₹41,00,000, the EX30 is set to make luxury electric mobility more accessible than ever before.

This festive season, Volvo Car India, together with its dealers, is bringing extra delight by offering the EX30 at INR 39,99,000 for those who pre-reserve the car before October 19, 2025. This special pre-reserve price is for a limited time, and customers can reach out to their nearest dealership for further details. The car will be available in five colours, and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first week of November 2025.

This marks the third EV model from Volvo Cars to be locally assembled at the company’s plant in Hosakote, Bengaluru. Each EX30 comes with an 11-kW charger as a standard offer. The EX30 embodies Volvo’s commitment to sustainable mobility, innovative technology, futuristic design, and uncompromising safety.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Volvo EX30 to the Indian market at such an exciting price point, with special benefits for those who pre-reserve,” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India. “We believe this model will play a significant role in making luxury electric vehicles appeal to a new segment of innovators and achievers, those who appreciate power, design and sustainable luxury. With its impressive performance, extended range, sophisticated look, and the convenience of a hassle-free ownership package*, the EX30 is set to redefine the EV experience for our discerning customers.”

As the most sustainable car in Volvo’s lineup, the EX30 has the lowest carbon footprint of any fully electric Volvo to date. Its attractive interiors are made from recycled materials, including denim, PET bottles, aluminium, and PVC pipes. Incorporating Scandinavian design and cutting-edge technology, EX30 has achieved a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety test. The EX30 also features active safety tools such as an intersection auto-brake to mitigate collisions, a door-opening alert to prevent ‘dooring’ accidents, and the advanced Safe Space Technology, which boasts 5 cameras, 5 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors.

The cabin offers an immersive experience with five ambient lighting themes and sounds inspired by Scandinavian seasons. The new Harman Kardon soundbar concept, featuring a 1040W amplifier and nine high-performance speakers, delivers state-of-the-art surround sound. The intuitive 12.3-inch high-resolution center display includes Google Built-in, 5G connectivity, and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This head-turning design has also earned international accolades, including the prestigious Red Dot award: Best of the Best Product Design 2024 and the World Urban Car of the Year 2024.

The EX30 comes with an 8-year battery warranty and a wall box charger. The car reimagines convenience with its digital key functionality. Using NFC, one can simply tap a card to unlock the car, and with Digital Key Plus on the Volvo Car App, your phone acts as the key, providing a seamless and smarter experience.

Nissan Motor India Announces Special Flood Support Program For Customers In Kolkata

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Nissan Motor India, in response to the recent floods that have impacted several regions across Kolkata, West Bengal, has rolled out a comprehensive support initiative to assist affected customers. Demonstrating its commitment to customer care, the company is offering a range of services aimed at easing the difficulties faced during this challenging time.

Nissan has launched a comprehensive support program for customers affected by the floods. A dedicated helpdesk (1800 209 3456) is in place to assist with flood-damaged vehicles. The initiative includes free towing of affected vehicles to the nearest authorised Nissan workshops, extended service hours and support with insurance claims – including coverage of the excess clause fee.

In addition to service support, Nissan is providing a 10% discount on engine oil and oil filter replacement. Moreover, an additional 10% discount on floor carpet replacements. A comprehensive vehicle health check-up will also be conducted to assess any damage and ensure the continued performance and safety of the vehicles.

Commenting on this, Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. said, “The recent floods and waterlogging in Kolkata have impacted many families and brought unexpected challenges. At Nissan, our customers are always at the heart of what we do, and we want to stand by them in this difficult time. Through our helpdesk, free towing, and dedicated assistance, we aim to ensure that our customers can continue to celebrate the season with peace of mind and confidence.”

Nissan service centers in flood-affected areas across Kolkata have extended their working hours to better support customers during this time. The brand continues to prioritise customer well-being, ensuring help is accessible when it’s needed most.