Hero MotoCorp has announced plans to invest over Rs. 3200 crore in Andhra Pradesh as part of its strategy to strengthen manufacturing, logistics and electric mobility operations in the state. The investment will support capacity expansion at its Tirupati facility, establish a new global parts centre and create additional employment opportunities.

A significant portion of the investment, more than Rs. 750 crore, has been earmarked for setting up the company’s second Global Parts Centre (GPC) in Tirupati. The facility is intended to support the supply of spare parts for both domestic and international markets. The foundation stone for the new centre was laid in the presence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Hero MotoCorp also plans to expand production capacity at its existing manufacturing plant in Tirupati. Once the expansion is completed, the facility’s annual production capacity is expected to increase to between 1.2 million and 1.5 million units.

The company stated that its entire VIDA electric vehicle portfolio is currently designed, engineered and manufactured at the Tirupati plant, making it an important part of Hero MotoCorp’s electric mobility operations.

According to the company, the investment is expected to generate around 4000 jobs, while contributing to Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to strengthen its manufacturing and mobility ecosystem.

Speaking on the announcement, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the investment reflects the state’s focus on attracting industrial projects and is expected to support economic growth in the Rayalaseema region.

Hero MotoCorp Executive Chairman Pawan Munjal said the investment would help strengthen the company’s manufacturing capabilities, enhance its global supply chain and support future expansion in domestic and international markets.

Alongside the investment announcement, Hero MotoCorp introduced two initiatives in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh government.

The company announced the Dr. Brijmohan Lall Munjal Heroes of Tomorrow Scholarship for engineering students studying at the state’s Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs). It also launched a programme to supply VIDA electric scooters to women police personnel in Tirupati district, along with road safety training.

The investment marks one of Hero MotoCorp’s largest commitments in Andhra Pradesh and reflects the company’s continued focus on expanding its manufacturing and electric mobility infrastructure in India.

Source

The post Hero MotoCorp Announces Rs. 3200 Crore Investment In Andhra Pradesh appeared first on MotorBeam.

Toyota has confirmed that the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Strong Hybrid now uses a smaller battery pack as part of an update introduced with the 2025 model year. The change came to light after owners noticed a difference in the battery specifications and discussed it on online forums.

In an official statement, Toyota said the update was part of its ongoing product improvements carried out during the vehicle’s lifecycle. The company also stated that the change does not affect the SUV’s performance or fuel efficiency.

The strong-hybrid version of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder was initially equipped with a 0.76 kWh lithium-ion battery. However, from the 2025 model year update introduced in April last year, the battery capacity was revised to 0.60 kWh.

Despite the reduction in battery size, Toyota continues to claim an output of 115.56 PS and an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 27.97 km/l, indicating no official change in performance or efficiency figures.

The Hyryder’s strong-hybrid system continuously charges and discharges the battery while driving, allowing the vehicle to switch between petrol and electric power automatically.

A smaller battery could result in the SUV spending slightly less time in electric-only mode before the petrol engine starts assisting. At the same time, the reduced battery capacity may also allow it to recharge more quickly during normal driving, leading to shorter but more frequent charging cycles.

Toyota has not indicated any noticeable impact on the overall driving experience and maintains that the vehicle’s claimed performance and efficiency remain unchanged.

Apart from the revised battery capacity, the strong-hybrid powertrain remains unchanged.

The Urban Cruiser Hyryder continues to use a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine paired with an AC synchronous electric motor and an e-CVT automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

The petrol engine develops 92 HP and 122 Nm, while the electric motor produces 80 HP and 141 Nm. Combined system output stands at 115 HP.

Toyota says the battery revision is part of a routine product update and does not alter the vehicle’s overall specifications or efficiency claims.

Source

The post Toyota Confirms Smaller Battery Pack For Urban Cruiser Hyryder Strong Hybrid appeared first on MotorBeam.

Skoda Auto India has announced the price of the Kodiaq RS, with the performance-focused SUV available at Rs. 66.99 lakhs (ex-showroom). Imported as a completely built unit (CBU), the RS becomes the most expensive variant in the Kodiaq lineup and commands a premium of Rs. 20 lakh over the locally assembled Selection L&K trim.

The company also confirmed that the initial allocation of 50 units for India was fully booked within six minutes of reservations opening on June 22. Skoda has not yet announced whether additional units will be made available.

The Kodiaq RS is powered by Volkswagen Group’s EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, producing 265 HP and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the standard Kodiaq, this represents an increase of 61 HP and 80 Nm.

Power is sent to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG). Skoda claims the SUV can accelerate from 0-100 km/hr in 6.3 seconds, making it the quickest Skoda model launched in India to date.

The RS also receives chassis upgrades, including Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC Plus) adaptive suspension with 15 selectable damping settings, along with progressive steering, which varies the steering ratio depending on steering input.

Visually, the Kodiaq RS features a more aggressive appearance than the standard model. It gets redesigned front and rear bumpers, RS badges, 20-inch alloy wheels, a larger roof spoiler and dual stainless-steel exhaust outlets.

Gloss black exterior elements include the front grille, roof rails, window surrounds, ORVMs and D-pillar trim. Buyers can choose from Velvet Red, Magic Black, Moon White and Steel Grey exterior colours.

Inside, the cabin receives RS-specific styling with red contrast stitching on the seats, dashboard and steering wheel, along with RS embossing on the seats and metallic-finish dashboard inserts.

The equipment list includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, heating, massage, memory and thigh support functions, as well as a 13-speaker Canton audio system.

Safety features include nine airbags, a 360-degree camera and an ADAS suite.

The Skoda Kodiaq RS enters the market as a rival to the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line. While the Volkswagen is assembled locally and offered at a significantly lower price point, the Kodiaq RS differentiates itself with higher engine output and additional performance-oriented hardware such as adaptive suspension.

The post Skoda Kodiaq RS Launched In India, Priced At Rs. 66.99 Lakhs appeared first on MotorBeam.

Ather Energy has expanded the colour palette of the 450X electric scooter with the introduction of the new Overtone Series. The update adds three dual-tone paint schemes to the lineup, while the scooter’s mechanical specifications and feature list remain unchanged.

Priced at Rs. 1.52 lakhs (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), the Ather 450X now offers buyers more visual customisation options through the newly introduced finishes.

The Overtone Series consists of Still White, Space Grey and Lunar Grey, each featuring contrasting accents and revised graphics. All three versions also receive prominent ‘450’ graphics along the side panels.

The Space Grey variant features maroon accents on the bodywork and matching alloy wheels. The Lunar Grey option is paired with yellow highlights on the frame and wheels, while the Still White version combines a white exterior with light green accents.

These new colour options join the existing Cosmic Black and True Red solid finishes, as well as the Hyper Sand and Stealth Blue matte paint schemes already available on the 450X.

Apart from the cosmetic updates, the Ather 450X remains mechanically unchanged. It continues with the same electric powertrain, battery pack and performance figures offered previously.

Alongside the introduction of the new colour options, Ather has highlighted the availability of its 900W charger, which the company says can reduce charging time for the 450 series by nearly 30 percent.

The company has also begun rolling out AtherStack 7 via an over-the-air (OTA) software update. The latest software package includes the Voice on Ather feature, which was first showcased during the brand’s Community Day event in 2025.

With the addition of the Overtone Series, Ather has focused on expanding personalisation choices for the 450X while continuing to introduce software and charging improvements for existing customers.

The post Ather 450X Overtone Series Introduced With Three Colours appeared first on MotorBeam.

Lamborghini has introduced the Urus SE Performante, a more performance-oriented version of its plug-in hybrid luxury SUV. Positioned above the standard Urus SE, the new model receives increased power, reduced weight, revised aerodynamics and multiple chassis enhancements, making it the most powerful and quickest Urus produced to date.

The Urus SE Performante is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a permanent-magnet electric motor. The plug-in hybrid system produces a combined output of 801 BHP and 1000 Nm of torque, with power delivered to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

According to Lamborghini, the SUV accelerates from 0-100 km/hr in 3.3 seconds, reaches 200 km/hr in 10.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 312 km/hr.

The hybrid system is supported by a 25.9 kWh battery pack, enabling an electric-only driving range of over 60 km, depending on driving conditions.

Compared to the standard Urus SE, the Performante is 32 kg lighter, reducing kerb weight to 2473 kg. Lamborghini attributes the weight reduction to the extensive use of carbon-fibre components, including the bonnet, roof, wheel arches, side skirts and rear diffuser. A titanium Akrapovic exhaust also contributes to the lower weight by saving more than 10 kg.

The exterior has been revised with a new carbon-fibre bonnet featuring a raised centre section, larger front air intakes, a redesigned bumper, a larger rear spoiler and a more prominent rear diffuser. The SUV also rides on newly designed 23-inch alloy wheels.

Lamborghini states that the aerodynamic revisions reduce drag by 3 percent, while increasing downforce by 23 percent. Brake cooling efficiency has also been improved by 8 percent through updated airflow management and revised cooling ducts.

Inside, the Urus SE Performante retains Lamborghini’s driver-focused layout while introducing new materials and trim finishes. The cabin features CorsaTex by Dinamica microfiber upholstery, carbon-fibre detailing and red contrast accents.

A pair of 12.3-inch displays serve as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, with the software interface drawing inspiration from the Revuelto. The SUV also gets a redesigned steering wheel and an optional telemetry system intended for track use.

The Urus SE Performante debuts Lamborghini’s new Aura dual-chamber air suspension, which the company says reduces body roll by 55 percent and lowers cabin vibrations by 25 percent compared to the previous Urus Performante.

Additional mechanical changes include a wider track, upgraded brakes and improved stopping performance from 200 kmph, which Lamborghini claims is 12 percent better than before.

A new Rally driving mode has also been added for gravel and loose-surface driving. It joins the existing Strada, Sport, Corsa and EV modes, along with selectable hybrid operating settings.

With its combination of increased performance, revised chassis hardware and lightweight construction, the Urus SE Performante expands Lamborghini’s high-performance SUV lineup while retaining the practicality of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The post Lamborghini Urus SE Performante Unveiled With 801 BHP Hybrid Power appeared first on MotorBeam.

Electric passenger vehicle adoption in India witnessed strong momentum during the April-June quarter, with registrations increasing by 89.3 percent year-on-year. According to Vahan registration data, 82,737 electric passenger vehicles were registered during the quarter, compared to 43,710 units in the same period last year.

The growth comes amid changing consumer preferences, with higher conventional fuel prices and an expanding range of electric vehicle options contributing to increased demand. Industry players have also benefited from improved charging infrastructure and growing public awareness about EV ownership.

Tata Motors remained the country’s largest electric passenger vehicle manufacturer during the quarter. The company registered 32,283 units, marking a 104 percent increase over the 15,794 units recorded a year earlier. Its market share also increased from 36.1 percent to 39 percent.

Mahindra retained the second position, registering 20,112 electric vehicles, compared to 10,144 units in the corresponding quarter last year. Together, Tata Motors and Mahindra accounted for more than 63 percent of all electric passenger vehicle registrations during the period.

Monthly registrations also showed steady improvement throughout the quarter, rising from 24,963 units in April to 27,320 units in May, before reaching 30,454 units in June.

Commenting on the market, Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said the recent geopolitical developments in West Asia have encouraged more buyers to consider electric vehicles, with rising fuel prices influencing purchasing decisions.

Among other manufacturers, JSW MG Motor India recorded 16,502 registrations, representing a 22 percent year-on-year increase. Maruti Suzuki, which recently entered the electric passenger vehicle segment, registered 4,894 units during its first full quarter in the market.

VinFast registered 3,973 units, while BYD recorded 2,173 registrations, reflecting a 30 percent increase over the previous year. Kia registered 1,304 units, posting significant growth on a relatively small base. Meanwhile, Hyundai saw registrations decline to 1,386 units from 2,142 units, while Stellantis recorded 78 registrations during the quarter.

Industry observers attribute the rise in EV registrations to multiple factors. While petrol, diesel and CNG operating costs have increased due to higher fuel prices, electricity costs have remained comparatively stable, improving the cost-of-ownership proposition for electric vehicles. At the same time, manufacturers have continued expanding their product portfolios and charging infrastructure, further supporting EV adoption.

The post India EV Registrations Jump 89.3% In Q1 FY2026 appeared first on MotorBeam.

Land Rover has refreshed the Discovery range for the 2026 model year in some international markets with the introduction of a new Landmark edition, while also updating the existing Tempest and Discovery S variants. The revised lineup aims to offer buyers a broader choice of specifications, combining luxury, practicality and off-road capability in the brand’s seven-seat SUV.

Positioned between the entry-level Discovery S and the flagship Tempest, the new Discovery Landmark adds exclusive styling elements and a more feature-rich equipment list. It also introduces Tasman Blue, a new metallic exterior colour inspired by one of the original Discovery paint finishes from 1989 and available exclusively on the Landmark variant.

The Landmark edition can be identified by its unique branding on the tread plates, centre console, B-pillar inserts and puddle lamps. Exterior updates include Graphite Atlas accents on the grille, side vents and Discovery lettering, Carpathian Grey skid plates and newly designed 21-inch alloy wheels finished in Dark Agate Grey.

Inside, the SUV receives Tech Velour trim on the dashboard and door panels, brushed aluminium inserts with Landmark branding, a sliding panoramic sunroof and a centre console refrigerator, adding to its family-focused appeal.

The Discovery Tempest continues as the flagship variant in the lineup and now gets a new exclusive Borasco Grey exterior finish alongside existing colour choices. Matte protective film is now standard across all Tempest paint options. The model also features Petra Copper exterior accents, exclusive branding and 22-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can also choose from two new interior themes with Light Oyster or Caraway upholstery paired with Extended Windsor leather detailing.

Serving as the entry point to the range, the Discovery S continues with features aimed at everyday usability. Standard equipment includes Duoleather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, multiple USB charging ports and several storage compartments designed to improve cabin practicality.

Land Rover has also retained its range of optional accessory packs tailored for different lifestyles. These include packages designed for pet owners, cycling enthusiasts, beach trips, long-distance travel and winter driving, offering equipment such as roof-mounted carriers, cool bags, rubber mats and load-space accessories.

Mechanically, the Discovery remains unchanged. It continues to offer Terrain Response 2, All Terrain Progress Control, a maximum wading depth of 900 mm and a towing capacity of up to 3500 kg with Advanced Tow Assist.

Powertrain options continue to include six-cylinder Ingenium engines, with D249 and D350 diesel variants as well as the P360 petrol engine, depending on the market.

Another notable update for 2026 is the introduction of a Driver Attention Monitor, which uses a driver-facing camera to detect signs of distraction and can issue audio and visual alerts. The system can be configured or switched off through the vehicle’s driver assistance settings.

Land Rover is unlikely to introduce this special edition model in the Indian market as the SUV is phasing out soon.

The post Land Rover Discovery Landmark Edition Revealed appeared first on MotorBeam.

Kia India has expanded the Seltos range with the introduction of two new flagship variants, the GTX (O) and X-Line (O). Both trims are priced at Rs. 21.57 lakhs (ex-showroom) and are positioned above the existing GTX (A) variant, offering additional convenience, safety and connected technology features.

The new GTX (O) variant brings several equipment upgrades aimed at improving comfort and everyday usability. These include a head-up display, an air purifier with AQI display, integrated navigation for the 12.3-inch infotainment system, rain-sensing wipers, a dual-channel dashcam with front and rear recording and one-touch auto up/down operation for all four power windows.

Safety has also been enhanced with the addition of Kia’s ADAS F+ package. Along with the existing driver assistance features, the system now includes front collision avoidance assist during junction crossing and lane changes, evasive steering assist for collision avoidance and navigation-linked smart cruise control that can automatically adjust vehicle speed based on road curvature and speed limits.

The X-Line (O) variant offers the same feature set as the GTX (O) while retaining the X-Line’s exclusive cosmetic treatment. Exterior highlights include Matte Graphite and Aurora Black Pearl paint options, black-finished 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss black skid plates and side door garnish. Inside, it features a black and green leatherette upholstery theme unique to the X-Line.

Both new variants continue to be offered with Kia’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options. The rest of the Seltos lineup remains unchanged, with prices continuing to start from Rs. 10.99 lakhs (ex-showroom).

The post Kia Seltos GTX (O) & X-Line (O) Variants Launched With More Features appeared first on MotorBeam.

The Indian government has initiated trials of E25 petrol, a fuel blend containing 25 percent ethanol, as it evaluates the feasibility of increasing ethanol content beyond the current E20 standard. The study is aimed at understanding how the higher blend affects vehicle performance, fuel efficiency and long-term durability before any policy decision is taken.

The testing programme is being carried out by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). According to government officials, the agency has started evaluating E25 fuel on both E10- and E20-compliant vehicles. The assessment will cover a total distance of 1,50,000 km to measure the fuel’s impact under extended usage.

Once the study is completed, the findings will be reviewed by the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT). After the technical evaluation, the report will be submitted to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, which will decide whether a higher ethanol blend should be introduced in the future.

India has been steadily increasing ethanol blending in petrol as part of its strategy to reduce crude oil imports, improve energy security and support domestic ethanol production. The nationwide rollout of E20 petrol came into effect from April 1, 2025, while all vehicles manufactured from April 2025 onwards are required to be compatible with E20 fuel.

However, the transition to E20 has not been without criticism. Some vehicle owners have reported a drop in fuel economy after switching to the higher ethanol blend, while others have raised concerns about possible mechanical issues in older vehicles that were not designed for E20. Government agencies and automobile manufacturers have maintained that E20-compliant vehicles are engineered to operate safely on the fuel and they have not accepted claims linking the blend to widespread vehicle damage.

Industry observers note that any move towards E25 is likely to receive close scrutiny, particularly because of the mixed consumer response to E20. The ongoing study is expected to provide technical data that will help policymakers determine whether a higher ethanol blend can be introduced without compromising vehicle performance or reliability.

The ARAI report is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

Source

The post E25 Petrol Testing Begins In India, ARAI Studying Impact appeared first on MotorBeam.

BMW has unveiled the fifth-generation X5, introducing a completely redesigned version of its flagship luxury SUV with a broader choice of powertrains, updated styling inspired by the Neue Klasse design philosophy and a host of new digital technologies. The latest X5 also becomes the first BMW model to be offered with five different propulsion options, including petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, battery-electric and, later, a hydrogen fuel-cell variant.

The new X5 retains its position as BMW’s core Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), a model that has been part of the brand’s lineup since 1999. While combustion-engine variants continue with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, BMW is significantly expanding the electrified range.

Leading the lineup is the all-electric BMW iX5, which debuts BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology. The SUV adopts an 800V electrical architecture and newly developed cylindrical battery cells. BMW claims a driving range of up to 845 km for the iX5 60 xDrive, while also offering faster charging capabilities and bidirectional charging support.

BMW has also confirmed that the X5 range will eventually include the production version of the iX5 Hydrogen. The hydrogen-powered SUV combines a third-generation fuel-cell system with BMW’s newly developed Hydrogen Flat Storage tanks and a high-voltage battery. The company estimates a driving range of up to 750 km, although homologation figures are yet to be certified.

Visually, the fifth-generation X5 adopts a cleaner and more upright design influenced by BMW’s Neue Klasse styling language. It features a redesigned front fascia with illuminated kidney grilles, newly developed “double-X” lighting signatures and flush-style electrically operated door handles integrated into the bodywork. Buyers will be able to choose from 11 exterior colours and wheel sizes of up to 23 inches. BMW will also offer M Sport packages and a range of M Performance accessories for customers seeking a sportier appearance.

Inside, the cabin has been extensively redesigned with a stronger focus on digital interfaces and premium materials. New features include BMW Panoramic iDrive running Operating System X, a panoramic windscreen projection display, a redesigned central touchscreen, an available passenger display and a new multifunction steering wheel. BMW is also introducing slate trim as an optional interior finish, a first for the brand.

On the mechanical front, the new X5 comes standard with adaptive suspension and near 50:50 weight distribution. Higher-spec variants can be equipped with Adaptive Chassis Control and Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with roll stabilisation, particularly on electric and plug-in hybrid models. BMW has also updated its Level 2 driver assistance systems and introduced features such as BMW Symbiotic Drive and Soft-Stop braking technology for the electric and hydrogen variants.

Production of the fifth-generation BMW X5 will begin at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA, in August 2026. Customer deliveries of petrol and diesel versions are scheduled to commence in late November 2026, while plug-in hybrid and all-electric variants are expected to arrive in early 2027. The upcoming iX5 will also become the first battery-electric vehicle to be built at the Spartanburg facility.

The post 2026 BMW X5 Revealed With Electric, Hydrogen, Hybrid & Petrol Powertrains appeared first on MotorBeam.

Tata Motors has launched the Sierra EV in India with introductory prices starting at Rs. 18.79 lakhs (ex-showroom). Positioned in the midsize electric SUV segment, the Sierra EV sits above the Curvv EV and competes with rivals such as the Mahindra BE 6, Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV and VinFast VF6. Bookings are now open, while customer deliveries are scheduled to begin on July 15.

The Sierra EV is available in multiple variants with a choice of 63 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs. Prices range from Rs. 18.79 lakhs for the entry-level Pure variant to Rs. 25.99 lakhs for the fully loaded Empowered A AWD version. Buyers opting for the 7.2 kW home charger and installation package will need to pay an additional Rs. 49,000.

Built on Tata Motors’ Acti.ev+ platform, the Sierra EV shares its electrical architecture with the Harrier EV. Rear-wheel-drive versions are offered with both battery options, while the larger 75 kWh pack is also available with an all-wheel-drive configuration. The single-motor variants produce up to 315 Nm of torque, whereas the dual-motor AWD version develops a combined 504 Nm. Tata claims the AWD variant can accelerate from 0-100 km/hr in 5.8 seconds using Boost Mode.

The claimed MIDC driving range stands at up to 665 km for the 75 kWh rear-wheel-drive version, while the AWD model offers a claimed range of 624 km. The 63 kWh variants are rated for up to 535 km on a full charge. Using a 120 kW DC fast charger, the battery can gain up to 263 km of claimed range in 15 minutes, while charging from 20 to 80 percent takes approximately 26 minutes. Tata also continues to offer a battery warranty covering up to 15 years from the vehicle’s first registration.

The Sierra EV becomes Tata’s second electric SUV to feature all-wheel drive after the Harrier EV. The AWD variant also includes six terrain modes, low-speed cruise control for off-road driving and a 540-degree camera system with an underbody view.

Visually, the Sierra EV closely resembles its internal combustion engine counterpart, with a few EV-specific styling changes. These include a redesigned front bumper, revised front fascia details and dedicated EV badging. Wheel sizes range from 18 inches on lower variants to 19 inches on higher trims, while ground clearance is rated at 205 mm.

Inside, the cabin layout remains largely unchanged from the ICE Sierra but features a different interior colour theme. Depending on the variant, buyers get features such as a triple-screen dashboard setup, panoramic sunroof, JBL audio system, ventilated and powered front seats, powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, connected car technology, Level 2 ADAS, head-up display, digital key, OTA software updates, Auto Park Assist and six airbags as standard. The Sierra EV also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) charging, Summon Mode and Tata’s DrivePay in-car payment system.

With its combination of multiple battery options, long claimed driving range, available all-wheel drive and a feature-rich cabin, the Sierra EV expands Tata Motors’ electric vehicle portfolio while strengthening its presence in the competitive midsize electric SUV segment.

The post Tata Sierra EV Launched, Priced From Rs. 18.79 Lakhs appeared first on MotorBeam.

Honda and Nissan are reportedly preparing to collaborate on the development of standard electronic control units (ECUs) for future software-defined vehicles, signalling a move towards project-based cooperation instead of a full-scale corporate merger. While the proposed partnership is still at an early stage, India could become an important part of the companies’ long-term sourcing and localisation plans.

The latest development follows the collapse of merger discussions between the two Japanese automakers earlier this year. Rather than pursuing a complete integration, both companies are now said to be focusing on targeted collaborations that could help lower development costs and improve competitiveness in a rapidly changing automotive industry.

One of the first areas of cooperation is expected to be the joint development of standard ECUs for next-generation vehicles. As software becomes increasingly central to modern cars, sharing development costs and creating common electronic architectures could help both manufacturers improve efficiency while accelerating product development.

Both Honda and Nissan have faced challenges in recent years, including increasing competition from Chinese automotive brands and changing market dynamics. A technology-focused alliance allows the companies to work together in selected areas without the complexities associated with a full merger.

India could also benefit from this collaboration. Honda has already identified India, along with China, as a strategic sourcing hub because of its competitive automotive supplier ecosystem. The company has also acknowledged that its previous India strategy did not deliver the desired results and has indicated that it will adopt a more focused approach in the coming years.

For Nissan, India remains an important manufacturing base despite the restructuring of its alliance with Renault. Although Nissan sold its stake in the Chennai manufacturing joint venture, it continues to produce vehicles there under a contract manufacturing arrangement. The company has also strengthened its presence with the Magnite and is preparing to launch the Tekton SUV on July 9 as part of its renewed growth strategy.

If the collaboration progresses, increased localisation and joint sourcing of components could help both manufacturers reduce costs for domestic production as well as exports. However, there has been no official announcement regarding any India-specific manufacturing or product development initiatives under the proposed partnership.

For now, the reported alliance appears to be focused on technology sharing and procurement efficiencies, with broader collaboration likely to depend on the outcome of these initial projects.

Source

The post Honda, Nissan Eye Technology Partnership, India Could Play Key Role appeared first on MotorBeam.

Ducati has introduced the 2026 Multistrada V4 Rally in the Indian market with a starting price of Rs. 32.40 lakhs (ex-showroom). The updated adventure tourer receives revisions to its chassis, suspension, braking hardware and electronic rider assistance systems while retaining its V4 Granturismo engine.

One of the key changes is the revised chassis, which features a higher swingarm pivot aimed at improving overall dynamics. The motorcycle continues to use Ducati’s semi-active Skyhook Suspension EVO, now enhanced with updated Adaptive DSS EVO strategies and an additional suspension mode designed to offer improved ride quality across varying terrain.

To improve low-speed usability, Ducati has equipped the Multistrada V4 Rally with an Automatic Lowering Device that temporarily reduces the seat height during slow-speed manoeuvres. The braking system has also been updated with a larger 280 mm rear disc, while the twin 330 mm front discs remain unchanged.

The motorcycle also benefits from Ducati’s new Vehicle Observer (DVO) algorithm, which uses virtual sensor data to optimise the performance of rider aids such as cornering ABS and wheelie control. The radar-based safety package has been expanded with the addition of Forward Collision Warning, complementing the existing Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection features.

Inside the cockpit, the 6.5-inch TFT instrument cluster receives a refreshed user interface for improved functionality and easier access to information.

Power continues to come from the 1158cc V4 Granturismo engine, producing 168 BHP and 123 Nm of torque.

The 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally is offered in two colour options. Ducati Red is priced at Rs. 32.40 lakhs (ex-showroom), while the Jade Green version is available for Rs. 32.73 lakhs (ex-showroom).

The post 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Launched In India, Priced At Rs. 32.40 Lakhs appeared first on MotorBeam.

The Mumbai-Vadodara section of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is expected to be opened to the public by August 31, 2026, significantly improving road connectivity between Maharashtra and Gujarat. Once operational, the new expressway is expected to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Vadodara from around eight hours to nearly four hours.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the expected opening timeline, stating that the entire stretch within the state is planned to be operational by the end of August. The project marks another key milestone in the phased completion of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.

The Mumbai-Vadodara corridor spans approximately 157 km and has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 24,000 crore. According to the state government, construction has been completed on five of the seven project packages, with the remaining sections progressing toward completion ahead of the proposed inauguration.

The Mumbai-Vadodara route forms part of the 1,400 km-long Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, an eight-lane, access-controlled highway designed to improve connectivity between northern and western India. The corridor passes through Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra, linking major economic and industrial centres across these states.

In addition to reducing travel times for commuters, the expressway is expected to strengthen freight movement by providing faster access between industrial hubs in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat and Maharashtra and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), supporting logistics and trade efficiency.

The post Mumbai-Vadodara Expressway To Open By August 31 appeared first on MotorBeam.

The Delhi government has announced that the Delhi EV Policy 2026 will come into force on July 1, 2026, and remain applicable until March 31, 2030. As part of the initiative, the government plans to invest approximately Rs. 15,000 crore over the coming years to promote electric mobility, strengthen charging infrastructure and reduce vehicular emissions across the capital.

Unlike the draft version circulated earlier this year, the final policy does not include any incentives for strong hybrid vehicles. The proposal to provide a 50 percent exemption on road tax and registration charges for hybrid cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh has been omitted from the approved policy, leaving electric vehicles as the sole beneficiaries of financial incentives.

Under the new framework, electric cars with an ex-showroom price of up to Rs. 30 lakh will receive a complete exemption from road tax and registration fees. Additional purchase incentives include up to Rs. 30,000 for electric two-wheelers, Rs. 50,000 for electric three-wheelers and up to Rs. 1 lakh for N1 category electric goods vehicles. Vehicle owners scrapping older, polluting vehicles will also be eligible for incentives ranging from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 1 lakh, with all benefits to be credited directly to beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.

The policy also outlines a phased transition to electric mobility across vehicle segments. From January 1, 2027, only new electric auto-rickshaws and N1 category goods carriers will be eligible for registration in Delhi. This will be followed by an electric-only registration mandate for new two-wheelers from April 1, 2028.

To support the growing EV ecosystem, the government has set a target of installing more than 30,000 charging points across Delhi. Investments under the policy will also be directed towards public transport electrification and other supporting infrastructure. Further details regarding the allocation of funds and implementation of various schemes are expected to be released through a detailed government notification.

The post Delhi EV Policy 2026 Excludes Hybrid Car Incentives appeared first on MotorBeam.