Swedish luxury car brand, Volvo Car India and ChargeZone®, India’s largest EV charging network, has inaugurated an ultra-fast charging station on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway that features a 360kW star charge power unit with two dynamic load balancing dispensers. This station is located at Food Hills, Mumbai-Nashik Highway, Near Igatpuri. This marks a significant milestone in their collaboration to build a premium nationwide supercharging network.
This intelligent configuration enables optimal power distribution, reduced waiting times and faster real-world charging experience for Volvo customers and other EV users. Strategically positioned on one of Maharashtra’s busiest intercity routes, the charging station offers dedicated bays for Volvo EVs, seamless app-based access for navigation and payments, and an elevated customer experience designed for convenience and reliability.
Jyoti Malhotra, MD, Volvo Car India, spoke during the ribbon cutting ceremony organized at the charging station today, “As a legacy brand, Volvo Cars is committed to driving the transition towards sustainable mobility, and this partnership with ChargeZone® is a testament to that vision. Together, we are ensuring that our customers not only enjoy the luxury and performance of Volvo EVs but also have access to a dependable and hassle-free charging infrastructure. The new 360kW station on the Mumbai-Nashik highway is the first step in delivering a world-class charging experience across India.”
Present at the event and speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kartikey Hariyani, Founder & CEO, ChargeZone®, said, “The launch of our first co-branded 360 kW ultra-fast charging station with Volvo Car India represents an important milestone in building a premium, future ready charging network for the country. The Mumbai Nashik hub showcases our focus on high speed, technology enabled infrastructure supported by intelligent features such as dynamic power loading that significantly improve the customer experience. As EV adoption accelerates, our priority is to ensure that long-distance travel becomes fast, predictable and seamless. We look forward to supporting India’s shift toward a cleaner and more sustainable mobility landscape.”
This installation follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2025 between ChargeZone® and Volvo Car India to expand access to high-speed EV charging across key national corridors, and the plan is to get a few more charging stations added in 2026. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving long distance EV travel, strengthening charging availability, and advancing India’s transition to sustainable mobility, while encouraging the adoption of luxury and performance EVs across the country.
Nissan Motor India has announced the launch of the All-New Nissan Gravite at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 lakhs. A bold and game-changing 7-seater MPV, the Gravite marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nissan’s India journey.
The Gravite is the first product to roll out under Nissan Motor India’s renewed product offensive — underlining the company’s strengthened commitment and presence in India.
The name “Gravite” draws inspiration from 1.4 billion Indians and the 19,000 vernaculars and rituals that shape the nation’s diversity; the Gravite has been purpose-built to meet the evolving aspirations of Indian families. It combines space, versatility, comfort, and everyday practicality with a commanding road presence.
Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President and President, Middle East, KSA, CIS and India – Nissan and Infiniti, said, “India is central to Nissan’s global ambitions. Our actions over the past year strengthening operations, expanding the network and embarking on a product offensive demonstrate our long-term commitment to this market. The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is not just a product launch; it marks the beginning of a sustained growth phase for Nissan in India. With local manufacturing at our alliance partner facility in Chennai and a future-ready product roadmap, we are here to compete, grow and lead in the segments that matter.”
Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is inspired by the diversity, scale, and ambition of Indian families. Every detail from its modular seating to its commanding stance reflects how Indian customers live, travel and grow together. For us, GRAVITE is more than a product introduction. It is a promise that Nissan will continue to design, manufacture and invest in vehicles that truly resonate with India’s mobility aspirations.”
The All-New Nissan Gravite establishes a distinct and confident identity aligned with Nissan’s global design language. Its elevated proportions, muscular body lines, pronounced wheel arches and high ground clearance create a commanding road presence suited to diverse Indian driving conditions.
The Gravite is the only vehicle in its segment to feature distinctive hood branding along with unique rear-door badging — a bold design expression that reinforces exclusivity and strong visual recall.
Central to its identity is Nissan’s signature C-shaped design integration at the front and rear, ensuring instant brand recognition while delivering a premium, contemporary character.
The Nissan Gravite redefines family mobility with exceptional cabin roominess and pioneering modularity. Designed to seamlessly adapt to daily commutes and long journeys alike, it delivers intuitive comfort across all three rows.
Premium suede and leatherette quilted seats enhance seating comfort, while generous shoulder and elbow room in the first row and ample headroom and knee room in the second and third rows ensure relaxed seating for all occupants.
Safety remains a core pillar of the Gravite’s value proposition, with 30+ standard safety features designed to deliver peace of mind for families.
The All-New Nissan Gravite is powered by an efficient and refined petrol engine, thoughtfully calibrated to meet the everyday mobility needs of Indian families. It is tuned to deliver smooth acceleration, comfortable cruising and predictable performance across city and highway conditions. The combination delivers a driving experience that prioritises reliability, ease of use and everyday usability – aligning with needs of modern Indian families without compromising on fuel economy and refinement.
The All-New Gravite as the second critical model in Nissan’s rejuvenated portfolio represents a decisive step in the brand’s product renaissance in India. Building on the momentum of the New Nissan Magnite – which is exported from India to markets and locally supported by an expanding dealer network across network cities, the Gravite establishes a strong foundation for sustained growth.
With the upcoming Tekton C-SUV in mid-2026 and a 7-seater C-SUV in early 2027, Nissan’s future-ready roadmap signals a confident multi-segment offensive in the Indian market.
The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is launched at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 Lakhs.
JSW MG Motor India has showcased the MG Majestor, its all-new offering as India’s First D+ SUV. After breaking cover at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the Majestor now claims centre stage as MG’s most rugged, durable, and premium SUV tailored for the Indian roads and beyond. Built for peak performance and to deliver commanding road presence and all-terrain performance, premium comfort, and advanced safety, the Majestor showcases cutting-edge 4×4 prowess raising the bar with segment-leading innovations, luxury features, top-tier safety, and enduring build quality.
Commenting on the occasion, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “India’s premium SUV customer is evolving rapidly, looking not just for space, but for a vehicle that projects stature, inspires confidence, and integrates seamlessly into a more ambitious lifestyle. With MG MAJESTOR, we have created an SUV that is rugged in its capability, refined in its comfort, and dependable in its engineering. MAJESTOR for us represents our vision of what a true, full-size SUV should stand for, which is a commanding presence, sophisticated premium craftsmanship, intelligent in technology, and uncompromising in performance.”
Exterior
Resting on a massive 2950 mm wheelbase, the Majestor asserts dominance at the longest (5046mm), widest (2016mm), and tallest (1870mm) – unmatched in class. Its Mosaic Matrix Combination Grille, Dragon Eyes DRLs, split headlamps, connected LED tail lamps with sequential turn signals, raised hood line, and 19-inch alloy wheels amplify a bold, upright, rugged profile. Yet, it maintains a sophisticated, premium aesthetic that turns heads on city streets or highways.
Interior
Step inside for an expansive haven in black theme with plush leather and sleek centre console. Driver and co-driver seats are ventilated, offer massage function, memorize positions, and can be adjusted in multiple ways (12-way driver, 8-way passenger). A panoramic sunroof floods light, while 64-colour ambient lighting sets the mood. Three-zone AC ensures personalized comfort.
Flexible in 6- or 7-seater configurations, it suits families or adventurers. Dual 12.3-inch displays (instrument cluster and infotainment) support wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Immersive 12-speaker JBL sound, dual wireless chargers, 220V outlet, and 75+ iSMART connected features underline a tech-forward, luxurious drive every time.
Off-Road Capabilities
At the heart of the Majestor lies true SUV engineering, powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that churns best-in-segment power at 215.5 PS and 478.5 Nm torque mated to 8-speed AT (Automatic Transmission) in both 2WD and advanced 4WD.The Advanced 4WD system with 10 off-road modes balances worlds – on-road ease, off-road might.
In Auto Mode, the vehicle intelligently operates in 2WD during regular driving conditions and automatically switches to 4WD the moment it detects loss of traction. This ensures better fuel efficiency during daily use while delivering enhanced off-road capability exactly when required. This intelligent mode is particularly effective in conditions such as rain, snow, and slippery surfaces which require higher speeds.
Further strengthening its rugged credentials, the Majestor becomes the first in the segment to offer front, rear, and centre differential locks, enabling it to pull itself out of extreme situations even when one or more wheels lose traction or lift off the ground. Supported by Crawl Control Mode, 219 mm ground clearance, and an 810 mm water wading capability. The Majestor is engineered for durability and reliability across the toughest terrains.
Safety
Safety remains a core pillar of the MG Majestor. The SUV is equipped with Level 2 ADAS, providing assisted steering, braking, and acceleration for enhanced driver confidence across conditions. Apart from this it is also equipped with a host of safety features like 360 Degree HD Camera, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), integrating Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Roll Movement Intervention (RMI).
The MG Majestor will be offered in Sharp and Savvy variants across 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, in Pearl White, Concrete Grey, Metal Black, and Metal Ash. With the Majestor, JSW MG Motor India brings together rugged capability, uber premiumness, intelligent technology, and long-term reliability in one cohesive SUV, setting a new benchmark for large premium SUVs in India.
Peace-of-Mind
As part of MG’s Complete Peace of Mind Program, Majestor comes with an industry-leading 5-5-5 offering comprising 5 Year Unlimited KM Warranty, 5 Year Road-side Assistance, and 5 Labour-Free Services. Additionally, through a strategic partnership with ICICI Bank, customers will receive an exclusive invite for the ICICI Emeralde Credit Card at zero joining fee*. Early customers will also benefit from Priority Deliveries, access to Exclusive Previews across select cities in March 2026, and Invite-only Experiential Drives curated specially for Majestor owners.
The MG Majestor is available for pre-booking for a booking amount of INR 41,000 while full range pricing and market availability will be announced closer to launch.
Nissan’s all-new game-changing seven-seater B-MPV will be called Gravite and will be launched in early 2026. It is the first product to be rolled out under the brand’s refreshed and strategically curated line-up for India.
Purpose-built for modern Indian families, the Gravite delivers exceptional versatility and modularity, redefining convenience for value-conscious households while accelerating the expansion of Nissan’s revitalized product portfolio.
Announced in July 2024 as the second model in Nissan Motor India’s ambitious product offensive, the Gravite underscores the company’s forward momentum. The product roadmap includes the launch of the Gravite in early 2026; followed by the Tekton in mid-2026 and a 7-seater C-SUV in early 2027 — reaffirming Nissan’s deep and ongoing commitment to diversifying, strengthening, and revitalising its offering for Indian customers.
A Name that Reflects Nissan’s Ambition
The name “Gravite” draws inspiration from the word gravity, signifying balance, inherent stability, and powerful attraction. This choice reflects Nissan’s core vision of designing vehicles that perfectly anchor families in comfort, superior versatility, and seamless connectivity. Inspired by 1.4 billion Indians and the 19,000 vernaculars and rituals that form the foundation of the nation, the Gravite is the perfect companion for the aspirational and versatile Indian.
Interior: Pioneering Modularity and Comfort
The Gravite transforms family journeys with exceptional cabin roominess and pioneering, class-leading storage innovations. Every aspect has been meticulously crafted for versatility and intuitive use—from ultra-modular seating that effortlessly adapts to changing passenger and cargo needs, to smart space utilization that makes both daily commutes and extended family road trips equally seamless.
Set for its grand debut in early 2026, the All-New Gravite will be manufactured locally in Chennai. This production milestone reinforces Nissan Motor India’s unwavering commitment to deliver vehicles specifically tailored to the evolving demands of Indian customers. As the second critical model in Nissan’s rejuvenated lineup, the Gravite represents a decisive step in the brand’s product renaissance in India.
Design and Inspiration
The All-New Gravite establishes a bold and distinct identity aligned with Nissan’s global design language. Its signature C-shaped front grille—a defining element of Nissan’s DNA—ensures instant recognition and a bold on-road presence. The Gravite’s sleek horizontal proportions and confident, muscular stance combine modern elegance with practical and everyday usability.
The Gravite is the only vehicle in its segment to feature distinctive hood branding along with unique rear-door badging—a bold design choice that powerfully amplifies its exclusive identity. The rear fascia continues to echo Nissan’s signature C-shaped interlock theme, ensuring the MPV’s unmistakable presence on every road.
Massimiliano Messina, Chairperson, Nissan AMIEO (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe & Oceania), commented: “India continues to be a strong contributor to AMIEO’s performance, and Nissan Motor India plays a pivotal role in our strategy. Over FY25, we have strengthened our business operations, expanded our portfolio, and delivered on every promise made under our 2024 product offensive. The upcoming line-up—shaped by global insights yet deeply attuned to the needs of Indian customers—reflects our commitment to this dynamic market. With new models developed in and for India, and exports to several international markets, India remains both a growth driver and a strategic hub for Nissan Alliance. The reveal of the GRAVITE demonstrates our continued momentum and reinforces our confidence in the road ahead.”
Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, stated: “The All-New GRAVITE is a testament to Nissan Motor India’s renewed focus on the evolving Indian market. Deeply rooted in the fabric of the country, it is designed to be the perfect companion for the diverse needs of our customers. As the second model in our all-new product line-up, the GRAVITE marks a pivotal step in our transformation journey and reinforces our commitment to delivering vehicles that resonate with the aspirations of Indian consumers.”
To support this growth, Nissan is fast-tracking the expansion of its nationwide dealership network, ensuring greater accessibility and enhanced customer experience across the country.
Building on this momentum, the Nissan Magnite continues to strengthen the brand’s global footprint as one of its most successful ‘Made in India’ models. Now exported to 65 markets across South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, the Magnite’s strong acceptance underscores India’s pivotal role as a manufacturing and export hub for Nissan.
Further strengthening its future-ready product roadmap in India, Nissan revealed the Tekton in October 2025—its upcoming premium SUV. With its commanding design and modern technologies, the Tekton sets the tone for the brand’s next phase of growth, complementing today’s introduction of the new Gravite and signalling a robust, multi-segment offensive tailored for the Indian market.
The Volkswagen Group is starting the next testing phase in Wolfsburg with its self-driving research vehicle Gen.Urban1. After intensive trials, the Gen.Urban can now drive autonomously in real urban traffic. The research project aims to explore how passengers experience riding in a self-driving vehicle without a traditional steering wheel or pedals – and what requirements this creates for future vehicle concepts.
An interdisciplinary team from Volkswagen Group Innovation, including designers, human factors specialists, software engineers, and materials experts, is gathering comprehensive data on user behaviour and interaction with the Gen.Urban. These findings will contribute to the development of future interior and user experience (UX) concepts across the Group’s brands.
Key questions include: How do people spend their time in a self-driving vehicle? Which digital features best support work, entertainment, or relaxation? How should interaction between the vehicle and passengers be designed, particularly for older people or children? Simply put: Do people feel comfortable?
Gen.Urban delivers a personalised driving experience even before the journey begins Even before departure, passengers can customise their preferences – via app or directly in the vehicle – from cabin temperature to ambient lighting. Upon entering, the Gen.Urban greets the passenger, and the seat automatically adjusts to the desired position. In addition, the vehicle’s digital interior can be tailored to individual preferences using artificial intelligence (AI). The wide front display with its information, light, and sound is then adapted to an individual theme.
Gen.Urban is designed without a traditional steering wheel or pedals. The test participant sits in the driver’s seat, while a trained safety driver monitors the vehicle from the passenger seat. If necessary, the safety driver can intervene at any time using a specially developed control panel with a joystick.
The current test phase initially involves Volkswagen Group employees and will last for a period of several weeks.
Dr. Nikolai Ardey, Head of Volkswagen Group Innovation, explains: “The technology for autonomous driving is making rapid progress. With our Gen.Urban research vehicle, we want to understand exactly how passengers experience autonomous driving. Why? Because the key to a positive customer experience is to build trust – through meaningful interaction, a relaxed atmosphere, and intelligent assistance systems that respond precisely to the needs of passengers. Ultimately, technology should fit people, not the other way around. We will benefit from these insights across the entire Group in the long term.”
Test route in Wolfsburg city area with typical traffic scenarios The starting point of the test route is the visitor parking lot at the HQ building. From there, the nearly ten-kilometre loop runs through Wolfsburg’s city area, passing the Sandkamp factory gate, Saar and Lessing streets, Brandenburger Platz, Breslauer Street, Grauhorststraße, and finally returning via Heinrich-Nordhoff-Street. Traffic light intersections, roundabouts, current construction sites, residential areas, industrial sections, and possibly congested traffic: the route is chosen to correspond to typical challenges of urban traffic. Each test drive lasts approximately 20 minutes.
The Flying Spur Speed has again demonstrated its exceptional performance in all conditions by setting a new ‘winter lap record’ at the world’s most northerly active race circuit.
The record was set at the Drivecenter Arena circuit in Fällfors, northern Sweden – just 100 miles from the Arctic Circle, and a former military airbase. Despite the entirety of the 2.05-mile track being covered in 12-inch of ice and snow, the Flying Spur Speed was able to complete laps in under three minutes, with the best time standing at 2:58 – the quickest any vehicle has lapped the facility in winter conditions, ever. The Flying Spur’s variable four-wheel drive system and rear-wheel steering combined to give the car outstanding agility in the conditions, and peak speed was 120 mph during the record run despite the longest straight being only 450 metres long and covered in sheet ice.
The record was inspired by a combination of previous events from Bentley’s history – the two Ice Speed Records captured by Bentley in 2007 and 2011, and the one-hour endurance record set by a Turbo R at Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK in 1986 where 140 mph was averaged around the banked bowl. While the conditions mirrored those of the Ice Speed Records, the car that was used – registration Y15 BML – has a specification matched to the Turbo R in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. Identical Brooklands Green paintwork, yellow fine lines, and an interior in Linen, Cumbrian Green and Open Pore Walnut were specified to mark the Turbo R’s 40th birthday this year.
The Flying Spur Speed is a car designed to deliver exceptional driving performance in all conditions, thanks to its Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain and advanced chassis systems. An advanced 600 PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is combined with a 190 PS electric motor that is neatly integrated within the 8-speed dual clutch transmission. In Sport Mode this powertrain deploys a full 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, with the instant torque of the E-motor complementing the charismatic cross-plane beat of the V8.
In pure EV mode, the E-motor provides 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, more than enough to keep up with the traffic in most situations, while the 25.9 kWh battery offers up to 47 miles (76 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle). Together, the V8 and E-motor provide the new Flying Spur with a total range of 515 miles (829 km). Full electric mode can be deployed at speeds of up to 87 mph / 140 kmph, with throttle applications of up to 75 per cent.
The Bentley Performance Active Chassis comes as standard with the Flying Spur Speed. Features of the sophisticated new setup include Bentley Dynamic Ride and All-Wheel Steering, along with an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential, while a new generation of ESC software permits a range of driving styles to be accessed and provides reliable traction in all conditions – though the record was asset with the system completely switched off.
With the new car’s rear-biased weight distribution of 48.3 : 51.7, the chassis systems and ESC have a mechanically-optimised platform in which to provide the final refinement. The system uses active torque vectoring front to rear through a centre differential, and precision vectoring across each axle using the brakes, to provide exceptional traction in all conditions – vital for a fast lap on snow-covered sheet ice.
BLive EZY, India’s leading e-mobility platform offering EV as a service for last-mile delivery catering to e-commerce and quick commerce companies like Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, and Blinkit, has announced the launch of its operation in Kolkata. The company plans to deploy 5,000 electric 2W and 3W vehicles (EVs) over the next 36 months, marking a major step toward sustainable and carbon-free deliveries in Kolkata.
With over 3 million deliveries fulfilled daily and nearly 1 lakh delivery partners on the road, Kolkata stands as one of India’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets in India. Yet, EV penetration for deliveries remains below 2%, signalling a vast opportunity for electrification. Through its successful EZY franchise model, BLive aims to create 50+ EV Franchisees, driving rapid EV adoption while enabling entrepreneurship.
Franchise Model: Profitable, Scalable, and Hassle-Free
BLive EZY’s growth is driven by its franchise model, which allows individuals and EV entrepreneurs to participate in India’s booming EV revolution. With an investment starting at INR 25 lakhs, franchisees can own a fleet of electric two-wheelers and earn assured monthly rentals. This fleet is deployed with leading delivery platforms like Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy.
The model offers investors a profitable business opportunity — BLive manages end-to-end operations, including deployment, maintenance and rider management — allowing franchise partners to earn 2X return on their investment within 48 months, right from the comfort of their homes. The entire fleet operation is efficiently managed on BLive’s AI-powered “Smart Fleet” tech platform, allowing vehicle tracking, digital rider onboarding, and digital payments and real-time vehicle data.
Driving Green Deliveries and Sustainable Livelihoods
BLive EZY’s entry into Kolkata aligns with its mission to enable green deliveries and sustainable livelihoods. The platform’s end-to-end EV ecosystem ensures seamless operations for enterprises and delivery riders, combining smart fleet technology with predictive analytics and real-time tracking.
“Kolkata represents the next big leap in India’s EV growth story. With high delivery volumes and increasing demand for sustainable logistics, this is the right time for businesses and individuals to invest in clean mobility,” said Sandeep Mukherjee, CEO & Co-Founder, BLive. “Our model makes EV adoption simple, scalable, and profitable — a win for entrepreneurs, enterprises, and the environment.”
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.
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.
Volkswagen is also setting the course for the future when it comes to model names: with a new naming strategy that also transfers the familiar designations of combustion-engine models to its all-electric ID. family. The first model to be launched will be the ID. Polo1 from 2026. The concept car is known as the ID. 2all.
Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Head of the Brand Group Core and member of the Group Board of Management: “Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”
Volkswagen will transfer more established names to the electric portfolio with each new model generation. At the same time, all vehicles with conventional drives will continue to run under their previous names. With this strategy, Volkswagen is bringing together the electric and combustion engine worlds, helping customers navigate the brand’s product range more easily in the future.
The designation ID. stands for advanced technologies and electric mobility. The Polo has always stood for quality, safety and democratisation of innovations. The new ID. Polo combines these characteristics and will be launched with its new name in the Polo’s 50th anniversary year as the first model of this strategy.
Martin Sander, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales: “Our cars often accompany people for many years – they shape memories and stages of life. A model like the Polo shows just how powerful a name can be: it stands for reliability, personality and history. That’s precisely why we are again giving our ID. models names that arouse emotions and are anchored in people’s everyday lives. Electric mobility should not only be progressive, but also accessible and personal.”
The second future ID. model for the small car segment will evoke special emotions. Martin Sander: “We are bringing one of our strongest brands, the GTI, into the electric world. Also launching in 2026, the ID. GTI Concept2 model will go into production as the ID. Polo GTI. It will offer outstanding dynamics and plenty of driving pleasure.”
The still-camouflaged ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI will make their first public appearance worldwide at the IAA MOBILITY in Munich (8 to 14 September). The day before, on 7 September, Volkswagen will unveil the concept vehicle for an electric compact SUV, the new ID. CROSS Concept, in a world premiere. The production version of this concept vehicle – the ID. Cross1 – will be launched at the end of 2026 as the electric counterpart to the T-Cross.
For Volkswagen, the premiere of the smaller and more compact vehicles in its electric family marks the start of a new era – it will make electric driving more affordable than ever, thanks to new models such as the ID. Polo and ID. Cross. These new models show clearly that Volkswagen is responding closely to customer feedback. This is evident, among other things, in the high level of quality with soft materials, the intelligent combination of digital and physical controls such as buttons and knobs in the steering wheel and cockpit, as well as the intuitive operating concept.
Volkswagen introduced the naming of the ID. family in 2018. It designates the stand-alone all-electric product range in the Volkswagen brand portfolio. The first model to be launched was the ID.3. Further models followed, which are also differentiated by model numbers depending on the vehicle segment. The largest model is the ID.7, available as a saloon and estate. This is currently the market leader in Germany and Europe.
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