Top Trending Auto & Transportation News & Highlights
Are adventure bikes India's newest two-wheeler fad? We clarify
In India, adventure bikes, sometimes referred to as adventure tourers or ADVs, are one of the motorbike segments with the quickest rate of growth. There is no apparent limit to what the Indian motorcycle market has to offer, ranging from well-known models like the Hero Xpulse 200 4V or the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 to more recent models like the TVS Apache RTX 300. In order to meet the growing demand that spans a wide variety of budgets and tastes, manufacturers have also begun introducing their high-displacement flagship tourers, such as the BMW R 1300 GS and Ducati DesertX. This wasn't always the case, and for a long time, only those with large enough wallets could afford these bikes, allowing them to live out their nomadic dreams. This changed when the Hero Honda Impulse 150, India's first mass-market dual-sport, was introduced. Although it wasn't an ADV, it helped establish the adventure market, which shortly saw the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411, the first reasonably priced ADV, go on sale. By the year 2025, we have a large selection of models from both domestic producers and high-end foreign companies.There is a reason behind its popularity. The most adaptable motorcycles are ADVs, which have a tough exterior and strong hardware and technology that support both off-road and on-road riding. Demand has also been boosted by expanding interest in adventure travel, an increase in disposable income, and the allure of seeing India's varied landscapes. And with the state of Indian roads, it should be of no surprise that most OEMs on our shores sell an ADV for those eager to sail through whatever this country has to offer.
Published 15 Oct 2025 05:33 PM
Kawasaki gets ready to unveil a new competitor to the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 at EICMA 2025
Kawasaki plans to bring back the KLE name with a new middleweight adventure bike, anticipated to launch at EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy. Launched in 1991 as the Kawasaki KLE500, this was a 498 cc Japanese dual-sport motorcycle designed for light off-roading and long-distance touring. The nameplate, which was discontinued in 2007, is now making a return to the stables after an absence from the market of nearly twenty years.The forthcoming Kawasaki KLE was initially hinted at during last year’s EICMA event, featuring a display of a 21-inch front wheel and a parallel-twin engine. A new teaser video shared on the manufacturer’s social media has revealed glimpses of the bike in off-road conditions, further affirming that the model will maintain its rally-style dual-sport character for riders seeking robust adventure-ready equipment without entering the larger Versys lineup. The forthcoming Kawasaki KLE was initially hinted at during last year’s EICMA event, featuring a display of a 21-inch front wheel and a parallel-twin engine. A new teaser video shared on the manufacturer’s social media has revealed glimpses of the bike in off-road conditions, further affirming that the model will maintain its rally-style dual-sport character for riders seeking robust adventure-ready equipment without entering the larger Versys lineup.Anticipated to arrive in India in 2026, the new KLE 500 will add competition to the 500cc adventure segment, alongside bikes like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Honda NX500. Here’s all the information you need to be aware of regarding it:
Published 06 Oct 2025 05:38 PM
From October 2026, electric vehicles in India will be equipped with a pedestrian warning system or AVAS. How it operates
From next year on, electric vehicles in India are expected to become noisy. In India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has prepared a notification suggesting the establishment of a pedestrian warning system using Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) for electric vehicles. As a result, electric vehicles in India will be equipped with a pedestrian warning system that notifies other road users of the electric vehicle's presence.As reported by the US Department of Transportation, electric vehicles present a 20% greater risk of pedestrian accidents compared to cars with internal combustion engines, and this risk increases to 50% during low-speed driving. In markets such as the US, Japan, and Europe, AVAS is a compulsory feature for electric vehicles. With this technology, the low-frequency artificial sound produced by the EV easily alerts road users. According to the draft notification put forth by the MoRTH, all new electric vehicles, encompassing both passenger and goods carrier vehicles, are required to be equipped with AVAS starting from October 1, 2026. The rule will apply to the electric vehicles currently in production as of October 1, 2027. The government notification stated, "From 1st October 2026 onwards for new models, and from 1st October 2027 for existing models, electrified vehicles of category M and N must be equipped with an AVAS that complies with the audibility requirements outlined in AIS-173, as it may be revised over time."Regarding this, Md Saddam Hussain, Principal Research Associate at the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy, stated that the mandate will enhance pedestrian safety and align India with global best practices. In the context of India’s crowded cities, an audible alert can significantly impact low-speed situations, as long as the sounds are crafted to be effective while avoiding contributions to noise pollution. It will be crucial to include two- and three-wheelers in phases and to enforce regulations strictly through the use of well-defined thresholds and accredited laboratories. He added that for maximum impact, AVAS should be complemented by active safety technologies such as pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).
Published 01 Oct 2025 04:40 PM
BEST introduces 17 new electric buses, with many assigned to the new Coastal Road route
On Sunday, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking expanded its fleet by adding 17 new electric buses measuring 12 metres. Several of these buses were deployed on a newly inaugurated route along the city’s Coastal Road.The PMI-brand buses produced by Nagpur's Mumbadevi Mobility Private Limited will be run from the Oshiwara depot located in the western suburbs. On Saturday, IAS officer Asheesh Sharma, who also serves as the general manager of BEST, officially inaugurated the induction at the Colaba depot.The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking has bolstered its fleet with the addition of 17 new 12-meter electric buses, improving services throughout Mumbai. Some of these buses will run on the newly inaugurated AC route A-84, linking Oshiwara Depot to Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherji Chowk (Museum) through the Coastal Road.On Sunday, September 7, 2025, BEST will launch a new route, AC A-84, linking Oshiwara Depot to Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherji Chowk via the Coastal Road. This route will feature 17 newly inducted 12-meter electric buses as part of BEST's fleet. Produced by Mumbadevi Mobility Private Limited, these buses bolster the BEST fleet with amenities such as public address systems and mobile charging ports, aligning with the organization's larger electrification initiative aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and cutting emissions.
Published 29 Sep 2025 05:25 PM
Auto & Transportation
Automobile is the biggest industry worldwide generating millions of job opportunities for different level of skills and same goes with transportations.
Tata Punch EV Launched In India; Prices Start At Rs. 10.99 Lakh
Tata Motors has launched the all-new Punch EV in the Indian market with prices ranging from Rs. 10.99 lakh to Rs. 14.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Based on Tata’s new born EV ‘Acti.ev’ architecture, the Punch EV will become Tata’s fourth EV to go on sale in India after the electric versions of the Nexon, Tiago and Tigor. The vehicle will be available in a total of five trims- Smart, Smart +, Adventure, Empowered and Empowered +and two range options – Standard and Long Range (LR).In terms of design, the Punch.ev has a lot in common with the standard Punch but also features a few distinctive styling cues that set it apart. These include the new slim, full-width LED DRLs, a charging port situated behind the front Tata logo and new 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The interior, however, is vastly different from the ICE model and is equipped with a 10.25-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, along with a 10.25-inch full-digital instrument console.The EV’s equipment list includes ventilated front seats, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, cornering fog lamps, auto-folding wing mirrors, an electric sunroof, wireless phone charging and 360-degree cameras. On the safety front, the Punch EV gets six airbags and electronic stability programme (ESP) as standard, and a blind spot monitor on the top-spec variant.The EV’s equipment list includes ventilated front seats, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, cornering fog lamps, auto-folding wing mirrors, an electric sunroof, wireless phone charging and 360-degree cameras. On the safety front, the Punch EV gets six airbags and electronic stability programme (ESP) as standard, and a blind spot monitor on the top-spec variant.The Punch.ev also features bolstered ventilated leatherette seats, mood lights and an Air purifier with AQI display. Additionally, the Punch.ev comes with paddle-shifters, which enables the 4-level multi-mode regeneration and over-the-air software upgrade capabilities.On the powertrain front, the Long Range variant of the vehicle will be offered with a 90 kW motor with a torque output of 190 Nm. It will also feature a battery capacity of 35 kWh and a ARAI range of 421 km. The regular Punch.ev will have a 25 kWh battery, with a range of 315 km along with a 69 kW motor and 114 Nm of torque output.The Punch EV will be offered with a 3.3 kW wall box charger as standard while a 7.2 kW AC fast charger is also available as an option for an additional Rs 50,000.To be offered in five trims- Smart, Smart+, Adventure, Empowered and Empowered+.Gets a new infotainment system and full-digital instruments display.To be offered with two range options – Standard and Long Range (LR).
Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Race Car Launch Date Revealed
Red Bull announces its Formula 1 2024 season launch date, set for February 15, aligning with Mercedes and Alpine's unveiling. Sergio Perez is confirmed to continue alongside Verstappen in 2024. Its predecessor, the RB19, dominated the 2023 season with all but one of the 22 Grand Prix races. Red Bull Racing has officially announced its Formula 1 2024 season launch date, aligning with its rivals Mercedes and Alpine. The unveiling is scheduled for February 15, a mere six days before the commencement of winter testing in Bahrain. While it remains uncertain whether Red Bull will present the actual RB20 car or reveal an updated colour scheme on a show car, expectations are high following the exceptional success of its predecessor, the RB19, which dominated the 2023 season, securing all but one of the 22 Grand Prix victories and propelling Max Verstappen to a more than comfortable third world championship.In response to questions about the team's prospects in the upcoming season, Christian Horner, Red Bull team boss, drew parallels with Mercedes' dominance in 2020 and emphasised the dynamic nature of Formula. Despite subtle rule changes, Horner acknowledged the evolving competition and expressed the team's commitment to adapting lessons learned from the RB19 to the development of the RB20, aiming for a competitive car to defend their titles.Sergio Perez is confirmed to continue alongside Verstappen in 2024, facing a crucial year to secure a contract extension with Red Bull. The team's launch follows announcements from Mercedes and Alpine, with Mercedes revealing its new W15 on February 14. Alpine, Renault's brand, is set to unveil its 2024 motorsport season, encompassing both F1 and the World Endurance Championship teams, on February 7. The launch dates for AlphaTauri, McLaren, and Haas are yet to be disclosed, completing the lineup of F1 teams preparing for the upcoming campaign.
Toto Wolff Extends Contract With Mercedes For 3 More Years
Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff signs a new three-year contract, extending his leadership until the end of 2026. The deal involves Wolff, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe, and Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius.The contract excludes performance clauses.Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff has inked a new three-year contract, securing his leadership until at least the end of 2026, according to an exclusive interview with The Daily Telegraph. The deal involves Wolff, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe, and Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius. Remarkably, the contract excludes performance clauses, emphasising trust between the parties and Wolff's commitment to achieving success rather than relying on specific track outcomes.Wolff, who owns 33 per cent of the team, clarified, "I've never had a performance clause; you either trust each other or you don't." The new agreement arises amid speculation about Wolff's position due to Mercedes' recent struggles in comparison to Red Bull's consecutive title wins. Despite external pressures, the contract demonstrates mutual confidence and a desire to navigate challenges as a united front. The lack of performance clauses aligns with Wolff's emphasis on stability and a long-term perspective. He believes that the absence of such conditions reinforces the shared goal of achieving a strong return on investment, which, in the context of Formula 1, translates to winning races and championships. His commitment extends beyond the team principal role, encompassing responsibilities as a co-shareholder and a member of the board.Reflecting on the risks associated with his role, Wolff expressed a concern for "bore-out" rather than burnout, indicating a preference for overcoming challenges and embracing difficulties rather than stagnating in a dominant position. The Mercedes team principal remains driven by the prospect of re-establishing the team's dominance in Formula 1.Wolff's new contract is significant not only for its duration but also for the absence of conditional performance metrics. It reflects a collective decision by the stakeholders to persist in their current roles and address the challenges that come with a downturn in the team's performance. The deal positions Wolff as a key figure in Mercedes' efforts to reclaim its leading position in Formula 1 and underscores the importance of trust and collaboration among the team's principal shareholders.In the larger context, the contract signals a commitment to stability, allowing Mercedes to navigate a transitional phase in Formula 1 and work towards regaining competitiveness. While the team faces uncertainties regarding the performance of the new Mercedes W15 car, Wolff's enduring leadership provides continuity and stability during a critical period.As Wolff embarks on the next three years, the focus will be on steering Mercedes back to the summit of Formula 1, where it enjoyed a dominant position for much of the past decade.
2024 Bajaj Chetak review, first ride
Where every other electric scooter in the mainstream has aspired to carve a niche for itself in the market as a futuristic next-generation mobility solution, Bajaj has attempted to authentically replicate an experience in electric with their Chetak. The all-metal body, the rounded design and the minimal technological intervention. All of which meant that up until now the Chetak was left to an ever-diminishing demographic of people familiar with the original Chetak. For 2024, without really making too many big changes, Bajaj has upped their ante and expanded the reach of the updated bike to new demographics with a slight rejig of the equipment list.But before we jump into what's new. Let us talk about the design and build of the new Chetak for a second. The design hasn’t changed from the first generation of the Chetak. The rounded fascia with the round headlamp and the svelte body section set in an all-metal body make for a very premium-feeling scooter. It also gets all LED lighting as standard. However, while the build on the paint and the bodywork do feel premium, the plastics and the body mouldings do seem a little off-brand for the premium electric scooter. Switchgear, though, is a premium touch and feels solid, although we did notice a few times when buttons on the instruments would not respond momentarily. But before we jump into what's new. Let us talk about the design and build of the new Chetak for a second. The design hasn’t changed from the first generation of the Chetak. The rounded fascia with the round headlamp and the svelte body section set in an all-metal body make for a very premium-feeling scooter. It also gets all LED lighting as standard. However, while the build on the paint and the bodywork do feel premium, the plastics and the body mouldings do seem a little off-brand for the premium electric scooter. Switchgear, though, is a premium touch and feels solid, although we did notice a few times when buttons on the instruments would not respond momentarily.
Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift vs Kia Seltos vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs others: Price comparison
India Today was the first news organisation to confirm that Hyundai Motor India will launch the Hyundai Creta facelift in the country in 2024. We also maintained that the Hyundai Creta facelift price will range from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). Well, it seems that we are bang on the target so far as the price of the vehicle is concerned.Among the other rivals, the Elevate's price ranges from Rs 11.58 lakh to Rs 16.40 lakh (ex-showroom), the Urban Cruiser Hyryder's price from Rs 11.14 lakh to Rs 20.19 lakh (ex-showroom), that of the Kushaq from Rs 11.89 lakh to Rs 20.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the price of the Taigun from Rs 11.70 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom) and the Astor from Rs 9.98 lakh to Rs 17.90 lakh (ex-showroom). In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, the SUV segment continues to witness fierce competition with manufacturers constantly upgrading their models to meet the changing preferences of consumers. In this comparison, we will focus on the recently launched Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift, the popular Kia Seltos, the established Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and a few other noteworthy contenders. Let’s delve into the key aspects, specifications, and prices to help you make an informed decision.The Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift arrives with refreshed aesthetics and upgraded features. Packed with cutting-edge technology, the Creta continues to be a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. The price for the base variant starts at $XX,XXX, making it a competitive option in its class.The Kia Seltos, known for its stylish design and feature-packed interior, remains a top choice for SUV enthusiasts. With a starting price of $XX,XXX, the Seltos offers a compelling mix of performance and comfort. Its diverse range of engine options and trim levels allows buyers to tailor their purchase according to their preferences.
JLR India launches Discovery Sport 2024 at Rs 67.90 lakh
JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model.The Discovery Sport 2024 is available in Dynamic SE with two engine options - 2.0-litre petrol (245hp and 365Nm) and 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel (201hp and 430Nm). Both engines are mated to an automatic transmission. The new Discovery Sport gets subtle exterior updates. There is a contrast roof and exterior accents, including Discovery script, grille, lower body sills and lower bumpers, all having a distinctive Gloss Black finish. There is Gloss Black front claw detailing on the bumpers and wheel arches. There are 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. The SUV also gets a new Varesine Blue exterior paint option.JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model. JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model.The new Discovery Sport gets subtle exterior updates. There is a contrast roof and exterior accents, including Discovery script, grille, lower body sills and lower bumpers, all having a distinctive Gloss Black finish. There is Gloss Black front claw detailing on the bumpers and wheel arches. There are 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. The SUV also gets a new Varesine Blue exterior paint option.You now get a digital instrument cluster and steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles as standard, while the redesigned centre console boasts a new floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen. The latest Pivi Pro infotainment set-up features permanently accessible sidebars, which provide shortcuts to key vehicle controls and functions, such as media, volume, climate and navigation. There is a panoramic glass roof as well.The SUV has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and a wireless charger. A natural shadow oak trim finisher surrounds a new gear shifter. Discovery Sport Dynamic SE features DuoLeather interiors with up to two colour options.
RE Shotgun 650 vs Kawasaki Eliminator – new twin engines but which one suits your pocket and need
Indian bike maker Royal Enfield has launched its latest bike, the Shotgun 650, the fourth bike in the company’s 650cc series in India. The Shotgun 650 is inspired by the company’s Super Meteor 650, with some design changes that give it a distinct look. While the Shotgun 650 has no direct rivals, it takes on the Kawasaki Eliminator as both are new twin-engine bikes. While the Eliminator is priced significantly higher than the Shotgun 650, it is one of the closest rivals to the new offering from Royal Enfield. The Kawasaki Eliminator is powered by a 451cc liquid-cooled engine compared to the 648cc air-cooled engine on the Shotgun 650cc. In terms of design, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is inspired by the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and is based on the same platform. However, the Shotgun 650 comes with a bobber design. It comes with a rugged design and features a round headlamp and rear-view mirrors. It comes with a single-piece seat and minimal body panels. It features blacked out engine parts that give it a retro look. It features a large 13.8-litre fuel tank and comes with an 18-inch front-wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel.Kawasaki Eliminator Price starts at Rs. 5.62 Lakh which is Rs. 2.02 Lakh costlier than base model of Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 priced at Rs. 3.59 Lakh. In technical specifications, Kawasaki Eliminator is powered by 451 cc engine , while Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is powered by 648 cc engine. Kawasaki Eliminator is available in 1 different colours while Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 comes with 4 colours. The Comparison Kawasaki Eliminator vs Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 can be described on the basis of price and specifications.BikeWale brings you comparison of Kawasaki Eliminator and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650. The ex-showroom price of Kawasaki Eliminator is ₹ 5,62,000 and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is ₹ 3,59,430. Kawasaki Eliminator is available in 1 colour and 1 variant and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is available in 1 colour and 3 variants. Apart from prices, you can also find comparison of these bikes based on displacement, mileage, performance, and many more parameters. Comparison between these bikes have been carried out to help users make correct buying decision between Kawasaki Eliminator and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650.
Khelo India's medal total for the 2024 Winter Games
The Khelo India Youth Games 2024 will take place over 26 different sports, with competitions beginning on January 19 and ending on January 31.On Friday, January 19, the sixth iteration of the Khelo India Youth Games is scheduled to get underway. Up till January 31, the event will be held in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Trichy. It is a component of the Khelo India initiative of the Indian government, whose mission is to promote various sports at the grassroots levels of the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open this year's showpiece event at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.At the 2024 Khelo India Youth Games, more than 5,500 athletes from the 36 Indian states and Union Territories are expected to compete. Every athlete from every state and Union Territory will add to the total number of medals won in this team competition. The team with the greatest number of medals at the end of all the events will be declared the winner. In past Khelo India Youth Games seasons, Maharashtra and Haryana have dominated. In the first iteration of the event in 2018, known as the Khelo India School Games, Haryana emerged victorious, topping the medal standings. In the subsequent two rounds, Maharashtra emerged as the winners, but Haryana eventually took home the trophy in 2022. As the defending champions, Maharashtra will start the season as favorites.26 different sports are represented on the 2024 KIYG lineup, with a total of 933 medals available—278 gold, 278 silver, and 377 bronze. This year's multi-sport under-18 meet will see the debut of squash. However, for the first time, a demonstration sport based on an indigenous martial art called silambam will be included in the schedule.With 559 athletes, host Tamil Nadu has the largest contingent in the 2024 KIYG. Maharashtra, however, has committed 451 competitors to the competition, and Haryana has sent 491 athletes. The majority of the events will be staged in Chennai, while the Kalaripayattu events will be held in Madurai and Tricky will host gatka and kho kho. Basketball and thang-ta competitions will take place in Coimbatore in the meantime. You Might Enjoy
Ola Electric Introduces Ola Maps With Upgraded EV Software Move OS 4
The most recent iteration of Ola Electric's e-scooter software platform, called Move OS 4, allows for enhanced routing and a quicker, more precise search feature, according to the startup. A year after Ola announced that it was creating a specific navigation system for its cars and apps, the company has announced that Ola navigation will be used for commercial purposes on Ola EVs. Ola Electric submitted its DRHP to SEBI last month in an effort to raise more than INR 5,500 Cr through an IPO. On Thursday, January 18, Ola Electric released its in-house Ola Maps commercially along with the widespread release of the Move OS 4 software platform for its electric two-wheelers. The most recent iteration of Ola Electric's e-scooter software platform is called Move OS 4. MoveOS 4, according to the electric two-wheeler firm, has elevated navigating to an entirely new plane with Ola Maps. Improved navigation and a quicker, more precise search function are made possible by the updated software. Ola Electric claims that the revised user interface makes it easy for users to access necessary functionality without ever leaving the navigation screen. Furthermore, Ola Maps gives users the ability to mark their favourite spots for a fully customised navigation experience. Through Bluetooth, users may even locate their scooter by pushing places from their phone to it. One year after Ola announced it was working on a specialised maps system for its cars and applications and will soon be launching the system, the company announced that Ola Maps would be used for the first time on Ola EVs for commercial purposes. We are evaluating our own Ola maps! will launch in a few months on our cars and the Ola app! Bhavish Aggarwal, the CEO of Ola, stated in January of 2012. Ola Electric added that MoveOS 4 will provide over 100 new features and enhancements to the Ola S1 Gen 1 scooter range, S1 Pro (2nd Generation), and S1 Air. The update for S1 X+ is scheduled for the upcoming months. The business claimed that in addition to Ola Maps, the updated software version also includes enhancements to "Hill Descent Control" and the addition of "Cruise Control in eco-mode."
Volkswagen celebrates its 75th anniversary in the US market.
January 17, 2024, RESTON, Virginia /PRNewswire/ -- The first attempt to sell the Volkswagen Type 1, now known as the Beetle, to Americans was made exactly 75 years ago today when two of the cars touched down in New York. Seventy-five years later, the venerable carmaker is commemorating its modest beginnings, honoring those who have helped to integrate the brand into American culture, and laying the groundwork for the brand's next phase of ongoing change.Today, in honor of the historic anniversary, the company is launching a comprehensive, year-long campaign that aims to be both an invitation to participate in Volkswagen's electric future and a love letter to the people of America. "VW has transformed from a story about two Beetles to a significant part of American culture in the last 75 years," stated Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience & Brand Marketing at VW of America. "We hold individuals dear to our hearts and names. We will commemorate the real people and real-life events that have contributed to the Volkswagen brand becoming the beloved brand that it is today as we look forward to the next 75 years."Throughout the year, events are being organized to highlight the individuals, goods, and locations that have shaped one of the most recognizable brands in America. Following a break from Big Game advertising, Volkswagen will make a comeback to Super Bowl LVIII as part of the 75th anniversary campaign. Dutch businessman Ben Pon came to New York in 1949.
Sobek Auto to be acquired by CarTrade Tech for ₹537 crore
CarTrade Tech, an online vehicle classifieds platform, announced on Monday that it has signed an agreement to buy Sobek Auto India for a reported ₹537 crore. Sobek operates an online classifieds company in addition to an automotive digital platform. CarTrade Tech announced in a regulatory filing that the business has engaged into a share purchase agreement to purchase a 100% ownership in Sobek from OLX India BV, subject to the fulfilment of certain requirements. According to the company, the acquisition is a step towards its strategic goals of making investments that will complement CarTrade Tech's current commercial operations. On June 30, 2023, Sobek purchased the online classifieds company from OLX India in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the business transfer agreement.
A difficult future awaits Spirit Airlines following the failed JetBlue takeover.
After a federal judge this week blocked JetBlue Airways' proposed $3.8 billion takeover of Spirit Airlines, the budget carrier is now in precarious financial position. The business community speculate that the airline may have to further reduce its already low fares. According to some Wall Street analysts, the discount carrier might need to reorganize, if not go bankrupt. Following the release of the decision on Tuesday, Spirit's stock dropped 47%. On Wednesday, they saw yet another 23% decline, reaching a new all-time low of $5.74 per share. Even before the decision, Spirit, whose last profitable year was 2019, was dealing with difficulties: it is managing the grounding of some Airbus narrow-body aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney engine problems; additionally, it is dealing with lower-than-expected demand in the wake of the pandemic, in addition to increased expenses.The airline may try to find a new buyer, but Helane Becker, an airline analyst at TD Cowen, stated in a note that "a more likely scenario is a Chapter 11 filing, followed by a liquidation." "We understand that this may sound severe and alarming, but the truth is that we think there are very few circumstances in which Spirit can reorganize." The airline, which is well-known for its inexpensive tickets and extra charges for things like baggage claim and seat preference, may have to further reduce prices if it files for bankruptcy. In an effort to get as much money as possible through the carrier, Becker predicted that major Spirit routes may see some shocking prices.
Discovery Sport 2024 is priced at Rs 67.90 lakh by JLR India.
The Discovery Sport 2024 was introduced by JLR India today and is priced at Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model is priced Rs 3.49 lakh less than the 2023 model. The Discovery Sport 2024 is available in Dynamic SE with two engine options - 2.0-litre petrol (245hp and 365Nm) and 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel (201hp and 430Nm). Both engines are mated to an automatic transmission.Subtle exterior changes are made to the new Discovery Sport. The Discovery script, grille, lower body sills, and lower bumpers are among the exterior accents that have a gloss black finish and contrast with the rest of the body. The wheel arches and bumpers have front claw detailing in gloss black. There are alloys with 19-inch diamond cuts. The SUV also gets a new Varesine Blue exterior paint option.
According to Tata Motors, industry EV sales growth in India is expected to moderate to 40–45%.
"EV growth was starting from a very low base two years ago. It grew by almost 100% in the previous year, but the base is now expanding. By the end of this financial year, it will be around 90,000 to 1 lakh. On thishigh base, I think the growth (industry) would moderate to about 40% to 45%," Chandra said. Delhi, New: According to a top company official on Wednesday, Tata Motors anticipates that the industry sales growth of electric vehicles in India will moderate to 40–45% this year as the base grows. Four more EV models will be released this year, according to Tata Motors Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd Managing Director Shailesh Chandra, whose company launched Punch.evon on Wednesday.
Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme for Women to Launch Soon
Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme:- The Maharashtra government is about to launch a revolutionary program i.e., Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme to support women’s employment and safety. To address environmental concerns, the plan calls for the deployment of e-autos and the introduction of Pink Rickshaws in 10 major cities, including Mumbai city, Mumbai suburb, Thane, Panvel, Nagpur, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Nashik. Read below to check the detailed information related to Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme 2024.Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme, 2024 Maharashtra Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme, led by women, will soon be available in ten Maharashtra cities, including Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and Nagpur. The Women and Child Department presented a strategy to Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar.Dr. Prashant Narnaware, the commissioner of the Department of Women and Child Development, has proposed 5,000 pink rickshaws for the program's first year. Under this scheme, the government would subsidize unemployed women by 20% so they can buy rickshaws; they will pay 10% of the entire cost, with bank loans covering the other 70%.Goa, Lucknow, and Surat have already seen the introduction of similar e-rickshaws. Although the idea of women operating rickshaws is not new, the government has already created the Aboli Rickshaw program exclusively for women, with no financial support. Bank loans covered 85% of the vehicle's cost, requiring applicants to pay only 15% of the entire cost. Nonetheless, the Aboli Rickshaw program was unsuccessful, and aboli rickshaws are rare in Maharashtra today.
Uber comes up with its Flexible Pricing Service
Uber, a well-known ride-hailing company, is now testing its flexible pricing service, which lets commuters bid a specific fee for their route, in a number of Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns in India.A representative for Uber stated in a statement, "We are currently piloting this feature in some of the tier 2 and 3 markets in India.Additionally, Uber Flex is being tested in Latin America, Kenya, and Lebanon. In contrast to Uber's conventional pricing structure, Flex lets users choose from nine pricing points and bid any amount they like, with a default price already chosen.Drivers in the vicinity can then accept or decline the ride based on the fare that the passenger has chosen.In a similar vein, drivers can quote their charges to the user. The ride is finalized once they select the driver whose offer most appeals to them. Currently, users of inDrive, another ride-hailing app, can manually enter a certain fare. In Drive announced its intention to use the $150 million it raised in February of last year to assist its ongoing growth as well as customer acquisition and retention. Uber is working on a new feature called "Uber Flex" that would let Indian customers select the fare that suits them best. The function, which is presently undergoing testing in a number of Indian locations, is anticipated to allay worries about rising ticket prices. The Uber Flex function was first tested in October of last year, according to a TechCrunch article. The Uber Flex feature was tested in several Indian cities, including Aurangabad, Ajmer, Bareilly, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Gwalior, Indore, Jodhpur, and Surat. Uber informed the publication, "We are currently piloting this feature in some of the Tier 2 and 3 markets in India."
