Automobiles

French automaker Citroën has announced the launch of its latest model, the Aircross X SUV, equipped with upgraded features aimed at strengthening its foothold in India’s competitive automotive sector. The new SUV emphasizes safety, comfort, and technology integration, catering to the growing demand for premium yet affordable vehicles. With fresh design elements, advanced infotainment, and improved performance dynamics, the Aircross X underscores Citroën’s ambition to expand its market share in one of the fastest-growing SUV segments.

Maruti Suzuki’s newly launched SUV, the Victorious, has achieved a coveted 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, marking a significant milestone for India’s largest carmaker. The recognition underscores Maruti Suzuki’s efforts to align with international safety benchmarks and cater to an increasingly safety-conscious consumer base. The rating places the Victorious among the top-performing SUVs in India’s rapidly expanding automotive market, strengthening the company’s competitive edge.

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the UK-based luxury automaker owned by Tata Motors, has prolonged its production halt until September 24, 2025, following a crippling cyberattack that disrupted its IT systems, manufacturing, and supply chain. The shutdown, which began in early September, has left 33,000 workers sidelined and threatens the livelihood of more than 100,000 jobs across the wider supplier network. With daily losses estimated at £72 million, analysts warn the disruption could cost JLR billions if prolonged.

Belrise Industries Ltd., a prominent auto components manufacturer, has captured market attention with its recent stock performance, driven by strong financial results, strategic collaborations, and expansion into emerging technologies. The company, formerly known as Badve Engineering, has established itself as a critical player in supplying parts to both two-wheeler and four-wheeler manufacturers.

Honda has introduced the WN7, its first full-sized electric motorcycle, marking a significant milestone in the company's electrification journey. Designed for the European market, the WN7 combines performance, style, and sustainability, offering riders an alternative to traditional internal combustion engine motorcycles. With an estimated range of over 130 km per charge and rapid charging capabilities, the WN7 is poised to appeal to urban commuters and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.

Performance and Specifications

Ola Electric has reached a landmark production milestone, manufacturing its one-millionth electric vehicle (EV), underscoring the rapid growth of India’s electric mobility sector. The achievement highlights the company’s scaling capabilities, operational efficiency, and strategic focus on meeting rising domestic and global EV demand. Analysts view this milestone as a significant indicator of India’s accelerating transition to sustainable transportation, reflecting both consumer adoption and infrastructure development.

Honda Cars India has unveiled updated color options for its popular Amaze sedan, aiming to rejuvenate interest in one of the country’s best-selling compact sedans. The refreshed palette includes vibrant shades and premium finishes, enhancing the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal while retaining its core features of fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability. This move comes amid growing competition in the compact sedan segment from rivals such as Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor.

Mercedes-Benz India is reportedly considering a price adjustment for its portfolio, reflecting broader cost pressures in the automotive sector. Rising input costs, fluctuating currency rates, and increasing logistics expenses are prompting global automakers to revisit pricing strategies. The potential adjustment comes as demand for premium vehicles in India remains robust, driven by strong consumer confidence and increasing urban affluence.

Blue Energy Motors has appointed Anand Mimani as its new Chief Executive Officer, signaling a strategic move to accelerate innovation, market expansion, and operational efficiency in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle sector. Mimani brings extensive experience in automotive leadership, strategic business development, and technological innovation. The appointment underscores the company’s commitment to scaling production, enhancing EV offerings, and strengthening its footprint in domestic and international markets.

India’s automotive sector is projected to emerge as the largest globally within the next five years, driven by robust domestic demand, rapid urbanization, and government-backed infrastructure initiatives. Analysts highlight strong growth in passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and electric mobility, coupled with increasing exports to international markets. The industry’s expansion is expected to generate substantial employment, attract foreign investments, and accelerate technological innovation, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technologies.