Page 46- All Automotive News

Tesla boosts India presence: launches a six-seater, Model Y L (681 km range), and expands service to four new cities, adding Superchargers on highways linking Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.

The Skoda Kushaq facelift and Kia Seltos compete closely in the compact SUV segment, with the Kushaq offering a lower entry price and unique features, while the Seltos provides larger dimensions, more engine options, and advanced technology.

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 440 may bring back the old-school Himalayan charm with a 443cc engine, practical features, and a more affordable price point.

Ducati has introduced the Multistrada V4 Rally to its Factory Made customisation programme in Europe, offering buyers a range of aesthetic and technical options. The service is not yet available in India.

Venttup strengthens its leadership by appointing Prashanth R. Menon, former Tesla India director, as strategic advisor to drive EV expansion and strategic growth.

Maruti Suzuki set a new annual production record of 23.4 lakh units in FY ending March 2026, leading India's passenger vehicle segment and planning a major capacity expansion with a new Gujarat plant.

Toyota has increased prices for select Taisor variants by up to Rs 24,000, with the starting price unchanged at Rs 7.25 lakh. Other models like the Innova Hycross and Fortuner have also seen recent price adjustments.

Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, and Renault Duster all achieved 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, with Seltos leading in adult occupant protection and all three offering strong child safety scores and advanced safety features.

Rising crude prices are lifting upstream profits, but OMCs are seeing refining and marketing margins compress, reshaping Q1 2026 earnings trajectories.

German-backed Rocklink India has opened India's first advanced lithium-ion battery and permanent magnet recycling plant in Sikandrabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Volvo Cars has started production of the EX60 electric SUV in Sweden, targeting 40,000 units in 2026 as demand exceeds expectations. The EX60 is priced near its plug-in hybrid counterpart and uses a new production platform.

TVS has launched the 2026 Raider 125 TFT DD variant at Rs 98,550, featuring a new full-colour TFT display, over 99 connected features, and new colour options. The bike uses a 124.8 cc engine and offers advanced safety features.

Kawasaki is offering a complimentary pannier kit worth Rs 1.25 lakh with the Ninja 1100SX MY2025 in India. The offer is available nationwide on a first-come, first-served basis or until April 30. Regional discounts also apply.

Kia has updated the Syros with minor design changes and new variants, but removed key features. The model faces challenges with styling and engine calibration. An electric version is expected later this year.

The Skoda Kushaq facelift and Renault Duster target compact SUV buyers with similar pricing, turbo petrol engines, and strong feature lists. The Duster offers more features and space, while the Kushaq emphasizes driving dynamics and safety.