Tag: india

All-New Renault Triber Launched In India

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Renault India has launched the All-New Renault Triber with ex-showroom prices starting at INR 6,29,995. The new Triber comes with new and modern design language along with comfort enhancing features, while retaining its unique DNA of modularity, adopting to rethink space philosophy.

The All-New Renault Triber sports a completely redesigned front fascia, featuring a bold new grille, sculpted new hood, refreshed bumper, new sleek LED projector headlamps with integrated LED DRLs and new LED fog lamps.

Inside, the cabin has been revamped with a stylish dual-tone dashboard, seamlessly integrated with an 8-inch floating touchscreen display that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The renewed interior also includes new seat upholstery, a modern LED instrument cluster, LED cabin lighting, and blacked-out door handles for a premium touch.

At the rear, the new Triber showcases a redesigned bumper, updated LED tail lamps, a new skid plate, and a stylish tail lamp connecting embellisher, completing its contemporary makeover.

The car equipped with 35 new features, is the first ever product under renault. rethink. brand transformation strategy. In line with rethink space philosophy, it offers best-in-class modular seating with 3rd row Easy-Fix seats configurable as a 5, 6, or 7-seater, complemented by a segment-leading boot space of up to 625 litre, allowing customers to use the car in unique and innovative ways to fulfil their varied lifestyle utilities.

Designed with thoughtful enhancements, the new Triber is now available in four new variants, Authentic, Evolution, Techno and Emotion.

The new Triber now comes fitted with 21 standard safety features including 6 Airbags, ESP, TPMS, EBD with Brake Assist to name a few. Further adding on the safety features is Front Parking Sensor, available for the first time in the segment.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Venkatram Mamillapalle, Managing Director, Renault India, said, “India remains a cornerstone of Renault’s global strategy, driven by a strong product pipeline, expanding export operations, and a renewed focus on customer satisfaction — exemplified by the launch of the All-New Triber. This model is also the first in India to proudly feature Renault’s new brand logo, symbolizing the company’s bold, modern direction and deep alignment with Indian aspirations.”

He further added that “As a fully integrated operation with a manufacturing plant, R&D centre, and design studio based in India, Renault continues to develop and produce vehicles tailored specifically for Indian customers — truly by India, for India. The new Triber is over 90% localized, underscoring Renault’s long-term commitment to the Indian market.”

Asserting the significance of the new launch, Mr. Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Renault India, said, “The Triber has always reflected our deep understanding of the evolving needs of Indian families — blending smart engineering, modularity, and exceptional premium value. With the All-New Triber, we continue to champion our ‘rethink space’ philosophy, offering India’s most spacious sub-four metre car, now with a fully renewed design and features. This launch brings the spirit of renault. rethink. to life in the most tangible way, and we are confident it will further accelerate our momentum and strengthen Renault’s footprint in India.”

All-New Triber delivers a maximum power output of 72 PS at 6250 rpm and a maximum torque of 96 Nm at 3500 rpm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission available across all variants. The top-end Emotion variant also offers the advanced Easy-R AMT, enhancing driving comfort and convenience. This powertrain setup ensures a smooth and responsive performance suited for both city and highway driving.

Offering an absolute peace of mind, the car comes with 3-year standard Warranty extendible up to 7 years / unlimited kilometres coverage under Renault Secure program. To enhance the accessibility, now the new Triber is available with government approved CNG retrofitment kits across country along with a 3-year warranty.

The made in India Triber already enjoys 1.84 lakhs happy customers in the country and it is exported to over a dozen countries around the world. The All-New Triber flaunts bolder looks, rich features and packed with thoughtful premium technology upgrades, reaffirming Renault’s commitment to design-led and people-centric innovation for the Indian customers.

The brand is well entrenched in the country with over 350+ sales and 450+ service touchpoints across the country. The introduction of the All-New Triber marks an important milestone in Renault’s product renewal strategy, aimed at claiming its due position in the dynamic and competitive Indian automobile market.

New Prices – All India One Price

Ex-Showroom (INR)AuthenticEvolutionTechnoEmotion
Manual6, 29,9957,24,9957,99,9958,64,995
Easy-R AMT–––9,16,995

Six Lakh Units Of Tata Punch Sold Under Four Years

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Tata Motors has announced a historic milestone for its compact SUV, Punch, which has surpassed 6 lakh production milestone in less than four years—a record-breaking feat that cements its position as one of India’s favorite SUV.

Launched in October 2021 with the vision of making the SUV experience accessible to every Indian, the Tata Punch pioneered an entirely new segment — the sub-compact SUV. Since then, it has struck a powerful chord with customers across the nation. From bustling metros to aspiring hinterlands, the Punch has emerged as a symbol of choice, reliability, and style, reshaping the contours of the Indian automotive landscape. It made history by becoming the highest-selling car in the country in CY2024. Whether navigating urban streets or rural trails, appealing to first-time buyers, young professionals, or growing families — the Punch has evolved into more than just a car.

Speaking about the Punch and its deep connection with the growing aspirations of a bold and confident India, Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Punch embodies the spirit of a new India — bold, self-assured, and ready to forge its own path. Crossing the 6 lakh milestone is more than a production achievement; it’s a reflection of the immense trust that over 6 lakh Indians have placed in a vehicle that represents confidence, presence, and a fresh start to their journeys. It’s especially heartening to see how Punch has become the natural first choice for so many first-time car buyers. Punch is not just a car — it’s a breakthrough brand that has sparked a cultural shift and redefined what India expects from the first car in their family. With the launch of the ‘India Ki SUV’ campaign, we celebrate this extraordinary journey and the customers who made it possible. This is more than a celebration of numbers — it’s a tribute to a product that made SUV attitude accessible to all, without ever compromising on substance.”

Hardeep Singh Brar Appointed As President And Chief Executive Officer Of BMW Group India

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BMW Group India has announced a change in personnel at the helm with Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar being appointed as the President and Chief Executive Officer effective September 1, 2025.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar succeeds Mr. Vikram Pawah who is taking charge as Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Australia and New Zealand.

Mr. Jean-Philippe Parain, Senior Vice President, Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, BMW Group said, “India is among the fastest growing markets for BMW Group and an important pillar of our long-term success strategy for the region. Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar holds vast expertise and an intricate understating of Indian automotive industry to lead this dynamic market and strengthen BMW Group’s operations here. We would like to thank Mr. Vikram Pawah for his immense contribution towards strategic growth of BMW Group India and playing a decisive role in its recent development.”

Mr. Brar brings more than thirty years of rich experience in Indian automotive industry, having held numerous senior management positions. He most recently served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Kia India. Prior to this, Mr. Brar’s diverse experience included leading core functions of sales, marketing, customer experience, network development and corporate strategy across several brands including Maruti-Suzuki, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, General Motors, Nissan Motor and Great Wall Motor Company. He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Punjab. He is an alumnus of Harvard Business School’s Senior Executive Leadership Program.

Mr. Vikram Pawah has been with the BMW Group since 2017 and has successfully led the company’s operations in both India (2017 – 2018 and 2020 – 2025) as well as Australia (2018 – 2020). In recent years, Mr. Pawah strongly fixed BMW Group India’s gaze on expanding market share through new opportunities and target groups, and taking electric mobility, digitalization, retail experience and customer centricity to the next level.

Ashok Leyland Defence Business Secures Multiple Orders Worth INR 700 Crore

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Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group, and the largest supplier of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army, has announced that its Defence business has won multiple orders valued more than INR 700 crore.  The vehicles to be supplied under these orders are to fulfil Defence sector needs of troop transportation, logistics, and other specialised mobility requirements under the Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) program. With these new orders, Ashok Leyland further solidifies its position as a leader in advanced land mobility solutions for the Armed and Paramilitary Forces.

The recently awarded contracts encompass a diverse range of specialised vehicles, including the Stallion 4×4, Stallion 6×6, Short Chassis Bus, and Mobility System Travelling Platform. These vehicles combine superior reliability with exceptional off-road capability, ensuring seamless manoeuvrability across country’s most demanding terrains, meeting a variety of operational requirements.

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland said, “For decades, Ashok Leyland has been a trusted partner in Defence mobility. We are immensely proud to have secured these new orders, which reinforce Ashok Leyland’s leadership in the sector and reaffirms our commitment to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the armed forces. The defence business remains a key pillar of Ashok Leyland’s future growth.”

Mr. Amandeep Singh, President – Defence Business, Ashok Leyland said, “As a proud proponent of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ we are committed to strengthening India’s defence capabilities through indigenous design and manufacturing in the Defence mobility sector. Our vehicle platforms ranging from 4×4 to 12×12, packed with contemporary Defence specific requirements, including armouring, known for their versatility and durability, remain the backbone of logistics and specialist needs of Armed Forces. As the largest supplier of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army, we take immense pride in supporting our forces and remain committed to delivering these orders on time. Our future Defence order and tender pipeline is also quite robust.”

Ashok Leyland remains committed to developing indigenous mobility solutions that not only fulfill the operational needs of the armed forces but also advance India’s self-reliance in defence. With a legacy of excellence and a spirit of innovation, the company continues to power the Indian Army’s logistics backbone, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.

Nissan Motor India To Launch Two New Products Starting FY25

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Nissan Motor India has announced an all-new 7-seater B-MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) to their existing line-up. The company showcased two new products slated for India at their recently concluded Global Product Showcase Event held in Yokohama, Japan. This is in line with the company’s plans for the India business to reshape its new products to meet the rising aspirations of its customers and deliver products in all high-growth segments such as the B-MPV and C-SUV segments in addition to its existing share in the B-SUV segment led by the New Nissan Magnite.

Nissan will continue to strengthen its presence in India’s rapidly growing market, enhancing domestic performance and expanding exports. Nissan’s planned product offensive has begun with the first-time global reveal of an all-new 7- seater B-MPV scheduled to launch in FY25 as a brand new addition to the India product portfolio.

This will be followed by a previously announced 5-seater C-SUV (compact sports utility vehicle) in early FY26. The company has shared two brand new teasers for Indian audiences which confirm the developments and timelines for both vehicles. Nissan Motor India remains on track to have 4 products by FY26 for Indian customers across the B/C and D-SUV segments.

The C-SUV has been designed to disrupt the segment in India. It will be feature- packed and be delivered with state-of-the-art proprietary advanced technologies. Inspired by another iconic Nissan SUV, the new C-SUV takes its design cues from the Nissan Patrol. The C-SUV will deliver true Nissan SUV DNA and deliver the same robust reliability, premium craftsmanship and technology that Nissan is renowned for globally. The C-SUV with unmistakable presence will offer a high approach and departure angle making it the perfect companion for Indian road conditions.

The Nissan 7-seater B-MPV on the other hand aims to deliver unmatched value, quality and comfort to its core customer driven by value conscious customers seeking to maximize their purchase in the segment. The Nissan B-MPV will deliver muscular styling that is unique to Nissan’s distinct design philosophy. It has been designed to ensure comfort for passengers on all rows without compromising on driving pleasure.

Nissan is setting its sights on achieving an ambitious target of 1,00,000 units in both annual domestic sales and exports from India. To support this goal, the company will locally manufacture both new products at the Alliance JV plant in Chennai. This approach ensures that every vehicle manufactured here meets global standards, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Building on the success of the New Nissan Magnite, Nissan is introducing a new C- SUV that will also be made in India and exported globally. This 5-seater C-SUV will be the second model from the Chennai plant to follow the ‘One Car, One World’ strategy, reinforcing Nissan’s commitment to expanding its presence in both domestic and international markets.

TVS Motor Company Appoints Gaurav Gupta As President – India, Two Wheeler Business

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TVS Motor Company (TVSM) has announced the appointment of Gaurav Gupta as President – India Two Wheeler Business. He will be based out of Bengaluru and report to K N Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Company. Gaurav will head the India Two Wheeler Business, both ICE and EV. He has over three decades of experience and has worked in multiple geographies including India, China, Dubai, Indonesia, Vietnam, and ASEAN markets.

Announcing the appointment, K. N. Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Company said, “Gaurav has rich experience and expertise that will add significant value to the company. The company has been on a steady growth trajectory, delivering results well ahead of the industry. We are confident that under his leadership, we will further strengthen our market position and continue to set benchmarks. We wish him the very best and welcome him to the TVSM family.”

Prior to joining TVSM, Gaurav served at JSW MG Motor India (until recently as MG Motor India) in assignments as an Executive Committee member, Deputy Managing Director and Chief Growth Officer. During his tenure of 6.5 years, he played a pivotal role in establishing and leading the commercial operations for MG Motor India from the ground up, significantly impacting the Indian automotive industry.

In his previous role as Managing Director of Bridgestone Tire Indonesia, Gaurav led the company’s operations including both domestic and exports. Earlier, for two decades, he worked for General Motors in various roles across Asia Pacific operations including as Managing Director of General Motors Indonesia, General Motors Vietnam. Gaurav has also served the American Chamber of Commerce in the roles of Chair and board member. 

Gaurav is a Physics graduate and an MBA. His interests include travelling, technology, philanthropy and an occasional round of golf.

Škoda Auto Celebrates 25 Years In India

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Škoda Auto entered the highly dynamic Indian market 25 years ago: In January 2000 the Czech car manufacturer laid the foundation stone for its plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad until 2022) and was the first Volkswagen Group brand to establish a presence on the local market. The Škoda Octavia became the first model assembled locally. To date, India has become a key market in Škoda’s internationalisation plans, helping the company to effectively leverage existing sales potential in the ASEAN region, Middle East, Australia and New Zealand. On behalf of the Volkswagen Group, Škoda Auto has been spearheading all activities in the region jointly since 2018. Today, the brand developed and produces three models locally in India for India, based on the localised MQB A0–IN platform: the Kushaq, the Slavia, and, most recently, the Kylaq compact SUV, which expands the line-up into the popular sub-4-metre segment.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto: “We have built on 25 years of experience in India to make this thriving market the cornerstone of our international growth strategy. With its tremendous talent pool, growing consumer demand, and access to other markets, India is becoming our second pillar outside Europe and helping leverage further sales potential in ASEAN, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific region. Škoda has been a notable brand in India since we entered the market with the Octavia in 2001. We now produce in two plants. We have launched three all-new models specifically for India, achieving localization of up to 95 per cent: the Škoda Kushaq, Slavia, and just recently the Kylaq compact SUV, which complement the Octavia and Superb we also sell through a growing dealer network. In the last two years, we have increased customer touchpoints across the country by 35%. India also contributes to the global sustainability goals of Škoda Auto. One plant already runs entirely on green energy, while the plant in Pune expanded its photovoltaic system to deliver up to 30% of its electricity needs. I want to thank all our Indian colleagues for helping power the next stage of our growth, and especially our customers for their trust in our products. With this passion, we can achieve even greater things in the next 25 years!”

The first Škoda model introduced to Indian customers was the first generation of the modern Octavia, assembled from imported parts in rented facilities alongside the construction of the plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Over time, other Škoda models, such as the Fabia, Rapid, and later the Superb and Kodiaq, also attracted the attention of Indian customers.

A decisive step for Škoda in India came in 2018 when the Volkswagen Group entrusted the brand with jointly spearheading all Group activities on the market. As part of this, Škoda was tasked with developing the MQB-A0-IN platform, designed exclusively for the Indian market. The first vehicle built on this platform was the Kushaq, which entered production in Pune in 2021. Just a year later, the Slavia sedan was launched, with its development and manufacturing also carried out in Pune. The latest addition to Škoda’s portfolio for the Indian market is the Kylaq SUV, Škoda’s first model in the popular sub-4-metre segment, accounting for nearly 50% of car sales in the Indian market. The new model received 10,000 orders within just ten days of its launch and will contribute to the brands annual sales target of 100,000 cars in India by 2026.

The quality and reputation of Škoda’s vehicles in India is reflected not only in strong customer interest but also in numerous prestigious awards. For instance, the Škoda Slavia was named India’s Sedan of the Year in 2022 and won Car of the Year 2023 at the Acko Drive Awards.

In the meantime, the Indian market has developed into one of the key markets for Škoda and a strategic hub for the wider ASEAN region, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition to its assembly lines in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and manufacturing plant in Pune, Škoda has established a Technology Centre there. Moreover, in October 2023, Škoda opened a modern logistics facility for the export of components to Vietnam, a market the company entered in 2023.

Sustainable production is a major priority for Škoda, also in its Indian plants: The facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar operates entirely on green energy, while the Chakan plant in Pune is on track to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2030. On top of that, this 500-hectare plant site provides a habitat for more than 300 species of plants, trees and animals. Furthermore, the company is involving local suppliers in India and plays an active role in infrastructure development, supporting education and social initiatives. At its plant in Pune, Škoda expanded its photovoltaic system which is now capable of producing up to 26.6 GWh of electricity annually, covering up to 30% of the site’s electricity consumption.

Bengal Speed Festival 2024

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Bengal Speed Festival 2024 put the industrial town of Haldia on India’s motorsports map as automobile enthusiasts, motorsports fans, and local residents made up a 5,000 strong crowd to witness the thrilling autocross action during the 2-3 November weekend.

This was the fifth year of the National Autocross Championship qualifier with other supporting 4W Autocross being held in Haldia which witnessed a neck-to-neck competition amongst the top drivers of the eastern zone.

With the support of Shrachi Sports as Title Sponsor, this event got a great boost. Other sponsors such as Vamcy Merla, Haldia Municipality and Haldia Development Authority among many other organizations also extended their patronage to make this event a grand success.

The event was a combination of 4Wheeler Autocross and East Zone Qualifier of Indian National Autocross Championship 2024. The total number of entries registered for the event was a staggering 146 amongst which there were two lady participants.

In 4W Indian National Autocross Championship Qualifier, Karan Chaudhury clocked the best timing of the event with 1 minute 56.337 seconds followed by Saujatya Kole, Areeb Rahman, Nilanjan Banerjee and Uday Ganguly.

Saujatya Kole registered the fastest time with 1 minute 37.636 seconds in Open Autocross followed by Karan Chaudhury, Raunak Jana, Uday Ganguly and Sourabh Choudhury.

Speaking on the occasion, Saurav Chatterjee & Sk. Ajgar Ali, the main organisers of this event explained that autocross is not only about raw speed; one has to match that with driving acumen and physical stamina as well. They also added that the aim of the event is to woo the youth away from road racing to regulated motorsports, where safety of the drivers is of paramount importance.

The goal of FMSCI, the apex body of Indian Motorsports, is to identify young budding talents from the regional zones and thus Bengal Speed Festival 2024 is a big step forward to the eminent goal.

Calcutta Motor Sports Club and Kolkata Automotive Sports Association along with Motor Sports Association of Eastern India, the organising motorsports clubs of Bengal Speed Festival 2024 shall together be the guiding force of raw talents in the near future.

Photographs by Ranadip Mandal

Oben Electric Launches Nationwide Dussehra Festive Campaign

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Oben Electric, one of India’s homegrown electric vehicle manufacturers, is kicking off the Dussehra season with a nationwide campaign packed with irresistible deals that promises to electrify the festivities. From September 29 to October 12, customers can purchase Oben Electric’s flagship performance electric motorcycle, Oben Rorr at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,19,99, a flat INR 30,000 savings on the original ex-showroom price of INR 1,49,999. In addition, each purchase includes an extended 5-year warranty and an opportunity to win iPhone 15, iPad Mini, and Sony headphones.

Adding to the festive excitement, Oben Electric will also host a special Dussehra Dhamaal Day across its showrooms in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Pune. These exclusive one-day events will give customers the chance to win up to a massive ₹60,000 in total savings on the Oben Rorr, dropping the price to an astonishing ₹89,999. The Bengaluru event will take place on September 29 (HSR Layout showroom), followed by Delhi (Dwarka showroom) on October 2, and Pune (Wakad showroom) on October 6.

Madhumita Agrawal, Founder and CEO of Oben Electric said, “At Oben Electric, we are always looking for ways to bring more value to our customers, and the Dussehra Festive Offer is our way of celebrating this joyous season with the people who are driving India’s transition to electric mobility. We aim to make our electric motorcycle a superior choice in performance, safety, and sustainability. This festive season, we’re excited to provide enticing discounts and offers, to ensure that more customers can experience the reliability and quality of Oben Electric’s innovative EV motorcycle.”

This festive announcement follows Oben Electric’s aggressive expansion plans, which include opening 60 new showrooms across key Indian cities in the coming months. With a strong presence in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, and Kerala, Oben Electric continues to grow its footprint, making electric mobility solutions accessible to every corner of India. The brand’s LFP battery technology sets it apart from competitors by offering superior performance, 50% greater heat resistance and extended lifespan, reinforcing Oben’s position as a trusted partner in India’s electric mobility revolution.

Made In India Hyundai Exter Heads To South Africa

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Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), cumulatively the largest exporter of passenger vehicles by volumes from India, announced the expansion of its exports portfolio with the export of the Hyundai Exter. The model will now be available to customers in South Africa making it the eighth model to be exported to the country from India.

Commenting on the exports portfolio expansion, Mr. Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head – Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “South Africa has always been an important export market for HMIL, as most of the models that are manufactured at HMIL’s factory in Tamil Nadu are exported to South Africa. Also, 2024 is a milestone year for HMIL as it marks 20 years of exporting world class products to South Africa.‘Made in India, Made for the World’ is a testament to HMIL’s manufacturing prowess as it is evident that our products are not only loved by the Indian audience, but garner appreciation from customers the world over. I am confident that the Hyundai EXTER would be highly appreciated in South Africa, replicating its success story and tremendous popularity in India.”

HMIL commenced the export of Exter by dispatching the first lot of 996 units to South Africa. Exter will be Hyundai’s eighth model offering in the country after Grand i10 NIOS, Aura, i20, i20 N Line, Venue, Venue N Line and Alcazar.