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Nissan To Launch Affordable Vehicle To Grid Technology From 2026

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Nissan today announced it will launch affordable on-board bi-directional charging on selected electric vehicles from 2026. The initiative forms a key step towards its vision of creating a sustainable energy ecosystem.

The project progresses the commitment made in Nissan’s business plan, The Arc, delivering differentiated innovation that enables the EV transition, while unlocking new revenue streams. It also supports the company’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030, to create a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.

The Vehicle to Grid (V2G) technology, which allows EV owners to use electricity stored in their car’s battery to power their homes, or sell it back into the grid, will launch in the UK initially, followed by other markets in Europe.

The project is underpinned by Nissan’s extensive experience in V2G, with around 40 pilot projects conducted worldwide throughout the past decade.

Following a successful year-long project at The University of Nottingham, UK, Nissan has become the first car company to gain G99 Grid code certification with an AC-based solution, needed to supply electricity into the UK national energy supply.

Under the banner of Nissan Energy, the company’s aim is to roll-out V2G technology across markets in Europe and beyond, empowering consumers with either AC or DC-based V2G solutions, in alignment with local infrastructure and regulatory requirements.

Benefits of Vehicle-to-grid technology
By using Nissan’s on-board bi-directional V2G technology, customers can cut the annual cost of powering an EV by 50%. The same technology can also reduce net CO2 emissions from charging by 30% per year, per EV for the average UK household.

EVs equipped with V2G technology can play a crucial role in integrating and increasing the mix of renewables into the energy supply, by storing electricity generated by wind or solar, and directing it back into the grid when needed, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

As one of the bi-directional systems Nissan plans to offer, this AC-bidirectional system certified in the UK will leverage an integrated on-board charger to deliver a lower cost of entry, allowing the technology to be accessible to more people. Nissan aims to offer its AC bi-directional charger at a price comparable to a mono-directional charger available today.

As well as lowering the cost of entry, Nissan’s V2G system will give customers complete control and flexibility over their energy via a dedicated App.

The launch forms part of Nissan’s strategy to create a fully integrated energy ecosystem – sustainably manufactured EVs providing zero emission motoring, charged using clean energy and capable of providing power back to the home as well as to the grid.

Hugues Desmarchelier, Nissan Vice President, Global Electrification Ecosystem & EV Programs, said: “The technology we are bringing to customers is a potential game-changer for how we view the car. Not just as a means of getting from A to B, but as a mobile energy storage unit, capable of saving people money, supporting the transition of our energy systems away from fossil fuels and bringing us closer to a carbon-free future.

“Nissan is proud to democratise technology for the benefit of society. The breakthrough in an on-board solution for two-way charging will be a substantial reduction in the cost of integrating a future EV into your energy supply, and the ability to leverage the car as a source of income over its lifecycle.”

Nissan aims to become a truly sustainable company, and in the Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region (AMIEO) is using its unique diversity to drive locally-focussed action and scalable solutions that contribute to a cleaner, safer and more inclusive world for everyone.

Strong partnerships support successful UK trial
The V2G UK trial has been partly funded by the UK Government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre, a body established to support and accelerate the automotive industry’s transition towards net zero.
The V2G UK trial has been partly funded by the UK Government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), a body established to support and accelerate the automotive industry’s transition towards net zero.

APC Chief Executive, Ian Constance, said: “This is a significant milestone for the collaborative research and development project, led by Nissan Technical Centre Europe and supported by the Department for Business and Trade through the APC. Investing in pioneering vehicle-to-grid technology and R&D in the UK is part of a system-level approach to decarbonisation.”

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood, said: “Vehicle to grid technology is a fantastic innovation which has the potential to save people money and accelerate the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

“A greener transport network is a key priority for this Government, and by working together with industry we will boost consumer confidence and achieve our shared goal of getting more EVs on the road.”

During the trial, Nissan worked with several partners including Dreev and Enovates.
Dreev, a joint venture between EDF and NUVVE, was responsible for data collection, customer profiling and setting the charging and discharging plan by analysing information from the wall box.

Eric Mévellec, CEO for Dreev commented: “We have been working alongside Nissan for years on this revolutionary technological adventure, and we are thrilled to be a part of this new chapter. We are convinced that, by reducing the electricity bill for the customers while providing huge storage capabilities for the electrical system, V2x technology has a major role to play in the energy transition”

Enovates, a Belgian-based mobility technology company, developed the wall box, or Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), including set-up and test certification.

The wall box acts as the system hub, sending and receiving information on energy demand and supply from the Dreev cloud, and directing the car to charge or discharge electricity at a set amount to the home or grid.

Bart Vereecke, CEO of Enovates, said: “Enovates is proud to partner with Nissan in demonstrating through the Field Operating Test the real-world benefits of AC V2G technology. This test marks an important step in creating a sustainable, interconnected energy future where electric vehicles play a central role in sustainable mobility solutions and resolving energy grid congestions.”

“Enovates has always been committed to pushing the boundaries of V2G technology, and we are excited to bring our expertise in AC charging to this project,” added Stijn Vispoel, R&D Manager. “Our certified AC V2G chargers represent the next generation of energy technology, offering accessible, efficient, and smart solutions for the future of transportation and energy.”

The University of Nottingham was also pivotal in the trial, providing a base of operations at its on-campus Creative Energy Homes and supporting academic research.

Nissan is continuing to work with these, and other partners, to achieve the necessary grid certification in other markets, develop a seamless user experience and expand the technology availability to more customers.

Chairperson of Nissan’s Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region, Guillaume Cartier, commented: “One of the big challenges faced by society today is energy supply – how do we make it affordable, reliable and clean.

“At Nissan, we see a future for our customers where their energy comes from the car on the driveway – not only the power station – fully integrated, flexible and cleaner.”

Hyundai Motor Celebrates Production Milestone Of 100 Million Vehicles With ‘One Step Further’ Exhibition

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Hyundai Motor Company is marking its historic achievement of producing 100 million vehicles worldwide with the grand opening of its ‘One step further’ exhibition at Hyundai Motorstudio Seoul. The exhibition showcases the driving forces behind the 100-million-unit production milestone and conveys Hyundai’s gratitude to those customers who have been part of the journey.

This exhibition is a continuation of the 100 million production celebration held at Hyundai Motor’s Ulsan Plant on September 30. At that event, the company delivered the 100 million and first vehicle, an IONIQ 5, to its new owner, representing the brand’s gratitude to its customers for their unwavering support.

“It takes thousands of parts and pieces to build a car, with combined efforts of millions of people involved in R&D, design and manufacturing over many years,” said Sungwon Jee, Senior Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “We wanted to shed light on these behind-the-scenes efforts that went into producing 100 million vehicles and tell the story of Hyundai Motor’s transformation from a traditional automaker to a leading smart mobility solutions provider.”

Spanning five floors, the exhibition begins on the first floor by introducing the journey to 100 million units, featuring the Cortina Mark 2, Hyundai Motor’s first production model; and the Pony, Hyundai Motor’s first independently developed model.

The second floor offers a retrospective on how Hyundai has helped its customers’ lives and showcases the history of major Hyundai Motor plants, including the evolution of production processes over time.

The exhibition’s third floor highlights key drivers in achieving the production milestone of 100 million vehicles globally, focusing on three iconic models: the first-generation Sonata, the first-generation Elantra and Scoupe. These vehicles exemplify Hyundai Motor’s relentless pursuit to go ‘one step further’ in driving its incredible achievement.

The first-generation Sonata showcased Hyundai’s craftsmanship and dedication to enhancing product quality. The first-generation Elantra, a steady seller, laid the foundation for the company’s 100-million-unit production capability with the introduction of an automated production line. The Scoupe – equipped with the Alpha series, Hyundai’s first proprietary engine – pioneered the sports car segment in Korea and demonstrated the company’s engineering prowess.

The exhibition’s fourth and fifth floors feature the brand’s modern SUV lineup – Santa Fe, Kona and Inster; and electric vehicle (EV) lineup – IONIQ 5, IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6. This final section looks ahead to Hyundai Motor’s future as it moves ‘one step further’, transforming from a traditional automaker to a smart mobility solutions provider.

The exhibition is testament to Hyundai Motor’s unwavering commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction and a future of continued growth and success. Held from October 10 to November 10, admission is free to all visitors.

BMW Group Posts Significant BEV Growth In Challenging Market Conditions

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In a globally challenging market, the BMW Group increased its sales of fully-electric vehicles by +19,1% in the first nine months of 2024, with a total of 294,054 BEVs delivered to customers. During this period, BMW brand sales of fully-electric models rose by +22.6% to 266,151 vehicles. The MINI brand also grew its fully-electric vehicle sales by +54.3% in the third quarter, delivering 16,536 BEVs to customers.

“Our fully-electric vehicles are winning over customers worldwide – as shown by the significant double-digit growth in our BEV sales during the first nine months of the year,” said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales. “We also grew our sales in the Europe region. Our attractive model line-up, which is designed for technology openness, gained traction in the marketplace, despite the challenging conditions overall. The BMW brand captured market share in Europe and significantly outperformed the region’s total market,” Goller continued.

In Europe, the BMW brand delivered 577,803 vehicles to customers between January and the end of September (+7.6%), with particularly high demand in countries including the UK, Italy and France. The BMW brand’s fully-electric models also performed exceptionally well in the European region, with 121,844 vehicles delivered to customers – an increase of +35.8%.

The BMW Group delivered a total of 1,754,158 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles to customers in the year to the end of September (-4.5%). This downward trend can be partly attributed to delivery stops associated with the supplied Integrated Braking System (IBS), which significantly impacted the third quarter, as well as the difficult market environment in China. In light of this development, on September 10, 2024, BMW AG revised its sales targets for the financial year 2024.

Between January and September, the BMW brand experienced strong demand for its fully-electric models, with a total of 266,151 (+22.6%) vehicles sold. Most notably, the BMW iX1 and BMW i4 showed positive sales development. The BMW brand sold a total of 1,583,485 vehicles (-2.3%) in the year to the end of September. BMW M GmbH delivered 146,574 vehicles in the first nine months of 2024 (+2.0%), with growth driven by the BMW M2 and BMW M3 Touring models, among others. The MINI brand, which is updating its entire portfolio this year, delivered a total of 166,703 (-20.9%) vehicles to customers in the year to the end of September. In the third quarter, fully-electric MINI models were particularly in demand, with 16,536 vehicles delivered to customers, representing growth of +54.3%. In the first nine months of this year, the Rolls-Royce brand presented a total of 3,970 motor cars to their new owners worldwide (-12.8%).

Between January and September, BMW Motorrad delivered 163,436 (-0.9%) motorcycles and scooters to customers.

New Nissan Magnite Launched At Special Introductory Price of INR 5.99 Lakhs

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Nissan Motor India has launched the New Nissan Magnite with bold aesthetics, enhanced safety, and advanced tech. The Magnite’s bold presence is accentuated by a tougher, more robust exterior that exudes confidence and enhances its already impressive road presence. The New Magnite continues its commitment to innovation and customer-centric design, hitting the market at an introductory price of INR 5.99 lakhs. The Magnite is a testament to Nissan’s ‘Make-in-India, Make for the World’ vision, surpassing cumulative sales of 150,000+ units till date and making a powerful impact in both Indian and international markets since its December 2020 debut.

The introduction of the new Nissan Magnite marks a significant step in expanding the brand’s export markets. The continuing demand and popularity of the ‘Made in India’ Magnite across international markets has allowed the company to expand its export footprint to 47 new markets taking the total export footprint to over 65 international markets now including Left-Hand Drive markets.

With this new development, the export markets for Nissan now stand at 65+ countries. Speaking at the launch, Mr Frank Torres, Divisional Vice President-AMIEO Region Business Transformation & President-Nissan India Operations, said, “India has a critical role in our global strategy and we are glad to roll out the Magnite from our Chennai facility to more markets across the globe. It not only strengthens our export goal but also cements our customer-first philosophy. The Nissan Magnite’s success since its 2020 launch, both in India and international markets, embodies the enduring value of our ‘One Car, One World’ philosophy.”

Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. (NMIPL), said,“The Magnite has redefined market expectations, earning unwavering customer loyalty and setting new standards in the segment. The new Magnite delivers value on all fronts-safety, premium features, with a powerful yet efficient CVT Turbo powertrain. This launch showcases our unwavering commitment to excellence and plays a pivotal role in our product offensive approach for the country.We are grateful for the love and trust shownby customers in India and thank them for making the Magnite a resounding success in the country. We are confident that the New Nissan Magnite will also resonate with international customers in the same way.”

Building on its previous success, the New Nissan Magnite exemplifies Magnite-ness with a tougher, bolder and more robust exterior that enhances its commanding road-presence. The Magnite has sleek LED Headlamps with lightsaber-style turn indicator, Best-in-Class LED Taillamps with 3D Gradient “Honeycomb” pattern, and Magnite’s signature L-Shape Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Additionally, the new model boasts a new floating uplifted skid plate at front, bigger & bolder new imposing grille, all new dual tone R16 Diamond Cut Alloy wheel, functional roof rails (50kg capacity) and best-in-class ground clearance, giving a differentiated design appeal.

To cater for all preferences and customer needs, the New Nissan Magnite comes in 11 body colours, six monotones and five dual-tones available – all expertly created and crafted to suit customer tastes and ensure their car is as unique as they are.

Inside, the New Nissan Magnite sets new benchmarks with its refined interior, offering an impressive array of colour themes and advanced features. With unique 360 leather pack –including a Brownish Orange leatherette wrapped dashboard, leatherette seat upholstery with unique “Honeycomb”quilting pattern, leatherette all door trim, parking brake lever, steering, and front armrest–the New Nissan Magnite provides a no compromise premium package that is sure to impress.

The New Nissan Magnite also boasts of largest in cabin storage, improved seat comfort, standard expandable boot space from 336L to 540L with standard 60:40 rear seat split, largest rear knee room, high command driving position, best-in-class front seat couple distance, front armrest with storage, and cooled glove box, making interiors a perfect amalgamation of comfort and design.

The New Nissan Magnite comes loaded with 20+ first & Best-In-Segment features including premium quilted leatherette seat with Heat Guard Tech, continuous multi colour Ambient Light with memory function, Plasma Cluster air ionizer, new global smart key with Remote Engine Start with 60m range, Walk Away Lock (WAL) & Approach Unlock (AUL) function, biggest electronic bezel-less auto dimming IRVM, Full LED Exterior pack including LED Headlamp, LED Taillamp, LED Day time Running Light, LED Indicator, and LED Front Fog Lamp.

The new model also features Around View Monitor, 17.78 cm full digital advanced multi-functional cluster with dark theme, floating 20.32 cm (8) touchscreen infotainment system with Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 3D sound by ARKAMYS, and cruise control, making Nissan Magnite the most premium car in the category ready to pamper the new age customers.

Along with these, the New Nissan Magnite also provides consumers with a option of a unique tech pack which has a dashcam, wireless charger, premium speakers (JBL powered by Harman), puddle lamps and LED scuff plates.

New Nissan Magnite continues to offer a range of sporty and fun-to-drive powertrains that provide a thrilling driving experience for customers. The HRA0 1.0 turbo engine is one of the most fuel-efficient engines (ARAI certified 20 kmpl) among B-SUVs in the market, delivering higher torque at lower speed, giving a dynamic feel with strong acceleration at take-off.

The HRA0 1.0-litre comes with Mirror Bore Coating Cylinder Block technology which is used in Nissan’s world class sports cars such as Nissan GT-R, cylinder head with integrated exhaust manifold, split cooling, forged crank shaft, electric turbo actuators, improving performance and fuel efficiency and reducing NVH & emissions.The HRA0 1.0-litreturbo engine will be available with 5 Speed and X-TRONIC CVT gearbox.

The automatic gearbox, is the 3rd generation XTRONIC-CVT transmission, offering wider gear range that delivers seamless performance even in peak city traffic, better fuel economy, and acceleration thanks to improvements including a twin oil pump system with new electrical oil pump. Its D-step logic control computer software uses dynamic inputs like vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position and application speed to determine the ideal gear ratio needed to deliver an exhilarating drive and smooth cruises on the highways.

New Nissan Magnite to also come with a B4D 1.0-litre which is a naturally aspirated engine with manual or EZ-Shift (AMT) option.

As safety is paramount for Nissan, the New Magnite has further pushed the envelope to ensure Best-in-Class Safety – with 40+ standard active & safety feature and 55+ total safety features. These include; 6 Airbags (2 Front Airbags/2 Side Airbags/2 Curtain Airbags), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

In addition to the above, customers can enjoy driving friends and families with complete peace of mind thanks to further safety features such 3 point seat-belt for all seats, seat-belt reminder for all seats, child lock, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and rear parking sensor now coming as standard fitment across all variants – ensuring that every journey is not just comfortable, but more secure than ever. This comprehensive safety suite is complemented with improved body structure with 67% advanced and High Tensile Strength Steel. In addition, the New Magnite also comes with a 3-year / 100K kms warranty as standard, ensuring the peace of mind and enhancing the ownership experience for customers.

The New Magnite doesn’t just meet expectations; it exceeds them by offering a strong and modern presence on the road, best-in-class technology, and safe driving experience – all at an unbeatable price. This facelift underscores Nissan’s commitment to delivering exceptional value, making the New Magnite a great value proposition for customers seeking a vehicle that stands out in every aspect.

The launch of the New Magnite, and expansion to additional markets thanks to left-hand drive, highlights Nissan India’s role as a key automotive manufacturing hub. Combining Japanese design with efficient local production, the Magnite delivers great features and impressive performance to customers worldwide.

The state-of-the-art Nissan-Renault alliance plant in Chennai is a prime example of Nissan’s commitment to the India market. From this flagship facility, Nissan retains its firm focus on constant innovation – in order to meet the evolving requirements of today’s customers, while strengthening its presence in the region. This approach, and India as market, sit at the heart of The Arc, Nissan’s global business transformation plan based around strengthening its product portfolio, advancing electrification across key markets, exploring new approaches to engineering and manufacturing, the adoption of new technology, and harnessing strategic partnerships to drive value and strengthen competitiveness.

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Plays A Vital Role In Ethical Sourcing Of Indian Coffee

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In an innovative move towards sustainable development and community empowerment, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) is supporting Škoda Auto a.s. ‘Curiosity Fuel’ initiative by connecting with Indian coffee planters. This unique project endorses the nation’s ‘Make-in-India’ initiative by enabling Indian coffee to reach European markets directly.

Focus on sustainability and circular economy principles:

Škoda Auto a.s. is using coffee bean husks as a tanning agent for leather seats in Škoda’s Kodiaq and Octavia models, leading the way in eco-friendly automotive manufacturing. This innovative use of an agricultural by-product exemplifies the group’s commitment to the circular economy, transforming what was once considered waste into a valuable resource.

Empowering family-owned coffee farms in Coorg (Karnataka, India):

India, the world’s eighth-largest coffee producer with an export value of close to USD 1.25 billion, is known for its unique coffee flavours,. The annual coffee consumption at Škoda Auto Volkswagen India’s headquarters in the Czech Republic amounts to approximately 25 tonnes. Recognising India’s rich coffee heritage, the brand strategically chose to directly source the coffee and, in turn, support family-owned coffee farms in Coorg. The ‘Curiosity Fuel’ initiative is redefining the coffee supply chain by directly engaging with local farmers and eliminating multiple intermediaries. This approach not only ensures fair trade practices certified by the Rainforest Alliance but also promotes permaculture farming, emphasizing ecological and social responsibility.

Škoda Curiosity Fuel Initiative:

Škoda Auto a.s. has rolled out a new coffee called ‘Curiosity Fuel’ across the company in the Czech Republic. This special blend is grown, roasted, and packaged in a way that is friendly to both nature and farmers. Specially created for Škoda Auto a.s., ‘Curiosity Fuel’ is designed to inspire staff with fresh ideas and further the group’s sustainability objectives as outlined in Strategy 2030.

Karsten Schnake, Board Member for Procurement at Škoda Auto a.s. commented, “Our ‘Curiosity Fuel’ initiative highlights Škoda Auto’s commitment to innovative sustainability by integrating social, environmental, and circular economy principles into our supply chain. From ethically sourced coffee for our employees to utilizing coffee byproducts in our vehicles, we’re setting new sustainability standards in the automotive sector.”

Piyush Arora, Managing Director & CEO, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, added, “Our ‘Curiosity Fuel’ project demonstrates Škoda Auto Volkswagen India’s commitment to holistic sustainability. By bridging the gap between Coorg’s coffee planters and our global operations, we’re fostering community development. This initiative exemplifies our belief that true progress in the automotive sector must encompass environmental responsibility and community empowerment. It’s about creating a symbiotic relationship between our industry and India’s rich agricultural heritage.”

By connecting agriculture and automotive innovation, Škoda is showcasing how cross-sector collaboration can drive sustainable development and rural prosperity, promoting a more regenerative and inclusive economic model.

Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant Opens To Significantly Expand EV

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Kia Corporation has celebrated the opening of Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, Hyundai Motor Group’s (the Group) first dedicated EV manufacturing facility.

Located at Kia Autoland Gwangmyeong, the new South Korean facility has an annual production capacity of 150,000 units and started production of the Kia EV3 in the first half of this year, to be followed by the EV4 in the first half of 2025. Derived from the term ‘Evolution’, the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant demonstrates how Kia will continue to change and move forward as it aims to become a leader in the future of mobility.

To celebrate the completion of the project, Kia hosted around 150 guests during a ceremony at the new Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, including Jun Young Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Domestic Production Division at Kia; Seung Won Park, Mayor of Gwangmyeong City; and O Kyeong Lim and Nam Hee Kim, Members of the 22nd National Assembly of the Republic of Korea.

“The completion of the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant solidifies Kia’s first step as an EV leader following the company’s brand relaunch in 2021. With the goal of providing sustainable mobility solutions, we will lead innovation in the EV market and fulfil our responsibilities in helping to deliver a sustainable future”, said Jun Young Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Domestic Production Division at Kia, during a welcoming speech at the event.

Seung Won Park, Mayor of Gwangmyeong City also added, “The completion of the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant will help Gwangmyeong City to establish itself at the center of the EV industry in Korea. Through this we will strive to promote sustainable development of the local economy and create more jobs.”

In order to flexibly respond to changes in global demand for EVs, Kia has been steadily preparing for EV production at its global facilities. The Gwangmyeong EVO Plant is a dedicated EV facility, with an investment total of KRW 401.6 billion over approximately 60,000 square meters and will serve as an outpost for production of Kia’s popular EV models.

Kia has spent approximately one year transforming Gwangmyeong Plant 2, which was completed in 1987 to produce small internal combustion engine vehicles such as the Kia Pride, Avella and Stonic. The Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant is also meaningful in that it is the Group’s first dedicated EV plant and a facility that has been completely rebuilt on an existing plant site to become a hub for next-generation vehicle production.

Opening a new era for of EVs with full-fledged electrification

Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant is characterized under the theme of ‘pursuing maximum change through minimal expansion’ in consideration of its city center location and other environmental factors, such as protection of green spaces.

In addition, the plant has been constructed with a full-scale conversion to electrification in mind, focusing on ‘eco-friendly’ and ‘worker-friendly’ processes.

The body shop is now a high-tech logistics factory thanks to the introduction of automated guided (AGV) forklifts, and the green credentials of the paint shop have been increased by applying the water-based 3C1B method instead of the previous oil-based 3C2B method. New equipment has also been introduced to improve wellbeing and reduce the workload of plant employees, including machinery which can automatically install high-voltage batteries, wheels and tires on the vehicles.

Following the completion ceremony of the Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, Kia will ramp up EV production. Mass production of the EV3, the brand’s compact all-electric SUV, began in the first half of this year. The EV3 is Kia’s third dedicated EV model after the Kia EV6, the brand’s all-electric crossover SUV launched in 2021, and the Kia EV9 all-electric flagship SUV launched in 2023.

In the first half of 2025, Kia plans to introduce the EV4, the brand’s mid-sized electric sedan. Kia plans to utilize the Gwangmyeong EVO Plant as a key production base for the company’s EV models, including the EV3 and EV4, with an annual production capacity of 150,000 units.

Through the production of the brand’s high-quality EV models, the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant will begin a new era for Kia’s move towards electrification.

The New BMW X7 Signature Edition Debuts In India

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BMW India launched the new BMW X7 Signature Edition. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the car will be available exclusively in the petrol xDrive40i variant. The new BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport Signature Edition will be available in limited units and can be exclusively booked via the BMW Online Shop. The car is available at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,33,00,000.

The car is available in two exclusive BMW Individual paintworks: Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey. Upholstery features the exquisite BMW Individual Leather ‘Merino’ upholstery in Tartufo and Ivory White shades.

The generous exterior dimensions and expansive surfaces of the new BMW X7 radiate an expression of grandeur. The new imposing yet progressive front clearly differentiates it from its predecessor and other X models. The large kidney grille comes with a newly designed intricate double bars with chrome highlight. The crystal headlamps with Swarovski glass cut crystals in the front create a unique light effect. The aluminium satinated roof rails and aluminium satinated exterior elements add to the luxury appeal of this Sports Activity Vehicle. The central air intake is framed by two eye-catching chrome air vents. Modern impulses such as 3D taillights with a new inner graphic and connecting chrome bar covered by smoked glass are real eye-catchers.

The interior of the new BMW X7 M Sport Signature makes for an innovative and exclusive ambience. The first element to catch attention is the new digital BMW Curved Display which is harmoniously unified into the cockpit area, so it almost looks like it is floating. It’s typical BMW driver-orientation, clear reduced design along with an interplay of eye-catching graphics, modern colours and futuristic textures create an immersive visual appearance. The individual instrument panel lapped in genuine leather brings a particularly progressive feel to the modern premium ambience. Another premium feature is the ambient light bar extending from the centre stack to the passenger side. It beautifully elevates the overall ambient lighting effect available in 14 colours. Moreover, its crystalline appearance and prismatic structure perfectly complement the crafted clarity components such as the gear selector, iDrive control wheel, audio control button and start/stop button.

The overall experience of the occupants of the new BMW X7 M Sport Signature is further enhanced by the ambient air package. Filling up the cabin with a sense of space and natural light flow is the large sky lounge panoramic glass sunroof extending till the third row. The sky lounge comes with over 15,000 individual light points which can be altered via the ambient light setting to create a stunning light pattern. Crystal door pins add to the overall aesthetic appeal inside the car. Also available as standard are backrest cushions in Alcantara for the rear seat passengers. Captain seats lapped in genuine leather Merino offer the perfect individual luxury experience for rear seat passengers. Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers provides an intense musical feast for the ears. Handsfree operation of split tailgate gives easy access to a boot capacity of up to 2,120 litres.

Thanks to unrivalled BMW TwinPower turbo technology, the petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The 3-litre 6-cylinder in-line petrol engine of the new BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport Signature Edition produces an output of 381 hp and maximum torque of 520 Nm at 1,800 – 5,000 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 5.8 seconds. Additionally, the engine features a 48V electrical motor that with a power output of 12 hp and torque output of 200 Nm, helping achieve even better efficiency and dynamics.

The eight-speed steptronic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. The driver can access distinct driving setups in both automatic and manual mode – Comfort, Efficient, Sport and Sport Plus.

BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks’ (ADB-X), extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control’ (DTC), Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain. Adaptive 2-axle air suspension enables raising and lowering of vehicle at the touch of button and automatically adjusts the height of the car to suit any given driving situation.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. Host of connected drive features include BMW ID, BMW App, digital key, emergency call, real-time traffic information, remote services and smartphone parking. BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding BMW curved display with navigation with real-time traffic information and augmented view, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 14.9-inch control display and BMW head-up display.

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

My BMW app functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times as well as Learning Navigation, which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on the owner’s driving habits. In addition, customers can use the My BMW app to generate the BMW Digital Key Plus, which turns a smartphone into a digital vehicle key. It will enable customers to physically open the doors when unlocking them this way. If the Digital Key Plus is activated, it’s also possible to perform automated parking manoeuvres.

The spread of Driver Assistance Systems is more extensive than ever. They support and relieve the driver, thus increasing comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes functions like Cruise Control, the Attentiveness Assistant, Parking Assistant Professional with Surround View Camera, Drive Recorder, remote parking via smartphone and Reversing Assistant.

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.

MG Windsor Launched In India At INR 9.99 Lakhs

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JSW MG Motor India has launched the MG Windsor at the price of a manual compact SUV. The Windsor, combining the comfort of a sedan and the expanse of an SUV, will be offered with innovative aerodynamic design, spacious and opulent interiors, reassuring safety, smart connectivity, driving comfort, and many hi-tech features. It is built on ‘Pure EV Platform’ with BaaS – a unique ownership program, MG Windsor is offered at INR 9.99 Lakhs + 3.5 Rs. /km for battery.

For the first time in India’s passenger vehicle segment, JSW MG Motor India is introducing an innovative ownership plan through Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) offering, which makes owning an electric CUV at the price of a manual engine-based compact SUV possible. This flexible ownership program eliminates the upfront cost of the battery, enabling customers to pay only for its usage. Essentially, buyers pay a nominal fee per kilometre driven, which is 40% of the fuel costs of conventional vehicles. This model significantly reduces the initial acquisition cost and lowers the per-kilometre expense, ensuring an economical and hassle-free ownership experience.

In addition, the company is offering a first-of-its-kind lifetime battery warranty to the first owner of MG Windsor. With the eHUB by MG app, the company is offering one year of free public charging, making it easier than ever for Windsor owners to power up anytime, anywhere. JSW MG Motor India is also introducing its 3-60 assured buyback plan for the Windsor which ensures that it will retain 60% of its value after 3 years/45,000kms.

The Intelligent CUV features an AeroGlide design language, which is futuristic and transcends the concept of traditional segmentation. The interiors are opulent and luxurious with spacious aero lounge seats that can be reclined to 1350, coupled with the expansive infinity view glass roof, adding to the business class experience. Immersive entertainment and smart connectivity features are powered by a massive 15.6-inch Grand View Touch Display in the central console.

The Windsor comes with the powerful PMS Motor which is IP67 certified. Impressive performance is derived through a 38 kWh Li-ion battery pack and four driving modes (Eco+, Eco, Normal and Sport) that deliver 100KW (136PS) power and 200Nm of instant torque, offering a range of 331 kms. It can be charged in 40 minutes at any DC fast charger.

Speaking at the launch, Parth Jindal, Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “The MG Windsor is the realization of the vision and promise behind JSW MG India and marks a significant milestone in this journey. The Windsor is the first car that has come out of the JV and the team has worked very hard in developing and bringing it to the Indian market. This vehicle embodies our commitment to delivering to our Indian customers the best of innovation the world has to offer. As a crossover utility vehicle, the Windsor merges the comfort of a sedan with the expanse of an SUV, making it an ideal car for the Indian household. With its advanced features, innovative design, and disruptive pricing, the Windsor sets a new benchmark. I look forward to seeing the MG Windsor on our Indian roads, delighting our customers and helping them travel sustainably with comfort, style and power.”

Sharing his views on the occasion, Rajeev Chaba, CEO Emeritus, JSW MG Motor India said, “With its delightful features and easy to drive dynamics, MG Windsor will certainly invite newer sets of customers to try EVs. Enabling this, we have created a clear channel for smart and unique ownership through the BaaS program, complemented with additional benefits. With these initiatives, we are addressing the barrier of incremental upfront cost of owning an EV and supporting easy and hassle-free ownership through the user-friendly eHUB by MG app that brings the EV ecosystem to the fingertips of customers. I am confident that the overall package of the Windsor will prove to be a catalyst in strengthening the EV segment further for prospective car buyers.”

MG Windsor is a vision to bring the luxury of business class lifestyle and travel to the lives of every Indian. It is an ideal vehicle for customers looking to beat the bustling urban roads and tighter spaces in smaller towns, in comfort and style. The MG Windsor is being offered in three variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence; and four colours: Starburst Black, Pearl White, Clay Beige, and Turquoise Green.