Automobiles

Ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, Ashok Leyland, one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, has advocated for a scrappage incentive for ageing trucks to boost fleet modernization and curb environmental pollution. The company emphasizes that financial incentives for retiring older trucks would stimulate demand for new vehicles, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions. Analysts suggest that such measures could invigorate India’s commercial vehicle sector, drive industrial growth, and enhance road safety.

Rapido, India’s leading two-wheeler ride-hailing platform, reported a significant improvement in financial performance for FY25, with revenue rising 44% year-on-year and net losses narrowing. The growth was driven by increased ride volumes, expansion into new cities, and diversification into delivery and mobility services. Operational efficiencies and cost rationalization helped reduce the overall loss burden, reflecting the company’s maturing business model.

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has announced a recall of select CBR650R units after identifying a potential wiring-related defect that could affect vehicle performance and safety. The issue, linked to a specific section of the wiring harness, may lead to electrical malfunction under certain operating conditions. While no major incidents have been reported so far, the company has initiated a preventive recall to inspect and rectify the fault. The move underscores Honda’s emphasis on product quality, regulatory compliance and customer safety in India’s premium motorcycle segment.

Ola Electric has appointed Deepak Rastogi as its new chief financial officer, marking a significant leadership move as the electric vehicle maker scales operations and sharpens its focus on financial discipline. Rastogi’s appointment comes at a critical juncture, with Ola Electric expanding manufacturing capacity, investing in product development and preparing for long-term capital planning.

Tata Motors is entering a potentially favorable phase as discussions around GST 2.0 gather momentum, raising expectations of a more streamlined and growth-oriented indirect tax regime. Market participants believe proposed reforms could simplify rate structures, improve compliance and stimulate demand across vehicle categories. For Tata Motors, which has strengthened its domestic market position and expanded its electric vehicle portfolio, tax rationalization could translate into better pricing flexibility and improved volumes.

TVS Infrastructure Trust has successfully raised Rs. 830 crore in fresh capital, reinforcing investor confidence in India’s infrastructure investment landscape. The fundraise, completed through a structured issuance to institutional investors, is expected to strengthen the trust’s balance sheet and support long-term growth plans. The capital infusion will be deployed toward asset acquisition, debt optimization, and ongoing project development across core infrastructure segments.

Spy shots of the upcoming Tata Tiago EV facelift have surfaced, offering early clues about updates planned for one of India’s most accessible electric cars. The images suggest that Tata Motors is preparing a refreshed version focused on design refinements and feature enhancements rather than a mechanical overhaul. As competition intensifies in the entry-level EV segment, the facelift appears aimed at keeping the Tiago EV relevant through improved aesthetics, updated technology, and potentially enhanced cabin features.

Honda has repositioned the Fit hatchback in China as part of a broader effort to stabilize market share in an increasingly competitive passenger vehicle landscape. Tailored to local consumer preferences, the China-specific Fit reflects Honda’s strategy of adapting global models to regional demand dynamics. The move comes amid slowing growth in traditional car segments and rising competition from domestic manufacturers and new-energy vehicle brands.

Bajaj Auto is preparing to introduce the updated 2026 Pulsar 125, bringing fresh visual elements and enhanced technology to one of its most popular commuter motorcycles. The update reflects the company’s strategy of keeping high-volume models contemporary through periodic refinements rather than radical redesigns. New graphics, subtle cosmetic changes, and added tech features are expected to strengthen the Pulsar 125’s appeal among young and value-conscious riders.

Skoda Auto is expected to introduce a facelifted version of its Kushaq compact SUV, signaling a renewed focus on design-led differentiation in India’s competitive mid-size SUV segment. The upcoming update is likely to feature subtle yet meaningful exterior and interior enhancements aimed at keeping the model visually contemporary while retaining its core mechanical strengths. As consumer preferences increasingly shift toward feature-rich and aesthetically refined vehicles, the refreshed Kushaq is positioned to strengthen Skoda’s foothold in a crowded market.