Automobiles

India’s auto component manufacturing sector has urged authorities to ensure a stable supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and piped natural gas (PNG), citing rising production demands and increasing energy requirements. Industry leaders argue that consistent access to cleaner fuel sources is critical for maintaining operational efficiency, controlling production costs and meeting environmental compliance standards.

Commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland has announced a strategic investment in a battery pack manufacturing unit, reinforcing its long-term commitment to electric mobility and sustainable transportation. The move reflects the company’s effort to strengthen its presence in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle ecosystem while securing critical components required for future production. Industry experts believe that developing in-house battery capabilities can enhance supply chain stability, reduce costs, and support technological innovation.

Isuzu Motors India has announced the appointment of a new Deputy Managing Director, a strategic move aimed at strengthening the company’s leadership framework as it expands operations in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. The decision reflects the company’s focus on enhancing operational efficiency, accelerating product development, and reinforcing its long-term commitment to India.

Audi India has announced a price increase of up to 2% across its vehicle lineup, effective April 1, reflecting rising input costs and broader inflationary pressures in the automotive industry. The adjustment will impact several luxury models sold in the Indian market as the company seeks to offset higher expenses related to raw materials, logistics, and operational overheads. Industry analysts note that premium automakers have increasingly resorted to price revisions to maintain margins amid volatile global supply chains.

India’s electric vehicle (EV) market recorded a sharp rise in retail sales during February, highlighting the country’s accelerating shift toward sustainable transportation. Strong demand across multiple segments—including electric two-wheelers, passenger cars, and commercial vehicles—contributed to the growth. 

Mahindra & Mahindra reported strong vehicle sales for February, highlighting continued momentum in India’s fast-growing utility vehicle segment. Demand for popular models such as the Mahindra Scorpio-N, Mahindra Thar, and Mahindra XUV700 remained robust, supported by healthy rural consumption and improving supply chains. The company also recorded stable performance in its commercial vehicle segment and maintained steady export volumes.

Toyota Motor Corporation is strengthening its presence in India’s rapidly expanding sport utility vehicle market by introducing new models across multiple segments. The strategy reflects a broader shift in consumer preference toward SUVs that offer greater practicality, safety, and technology. Vehicles such as the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor, and the premium Toyota Fortuner illustrate the company’s diversified approach.

French automobile manufacturer Renault is preparing to expand its footprint in India with the planned introduction of the Renault Bridger in 2027. The upcoming SUV is expected to target the highly competitive mid-size utility vehicle segment, which has witnessed rapid growth as consumer preferences shift toward larger, feature-rich vehicles. Industry analysts believe the new model could help Renault refresh its product lineup and regain momentum in India’s dynamic automotive market.

India’s home solutions major Jaquar Group is accelerating its expansion in the lighting segment with an ambitious goal of generating Rs 1,700 crore in revenue within the next three years. The strategy reflects the company’s broader effort to diversify beyond its traditional bathroom fittings business and capture opportunities in India’s rapidly growing lighting and infrastructure markets. Rising demand for energy-efficient LED systems, smart lighting technologies, and design-oriented illumination solutions is driving growth across residential and commercial sectors.

India’s electric mobility transition could gain significant momentum if eligibility norms under the Automotive Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme are relaxed for emerging electric vehicle (EV) start-ups, according to Euler Motors CEO Saurav Kumar. While the scheme has been instrumental in attracting large-scale investment into advanced automotive technologies, many early-stage EV manufacturers struggle to meet its stringent financial and production thresholds.