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India-EU FTA to Allow Import of 1 Lakh Cars to India Initially at Lower Tariff

Kiran Murali — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 21:50:51

The India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will allow carmakers in Europe to import 1 lakh completely built-up (CBU) internal-combustion and non-plug-in hybrid cars into India in the first year of the FTA at concessional import duties, with the quota rising to 160,000 vehicles gradually from the tenth year, according to the schedule of tariff commitments under the deal.

The India-EU FTA talks concluded in January this year. The agreement is reportedly expected to be signed by the end of this year and could come into effect from next year. There are also reciprocal EU concessions given for cars exported to the EU from India, with a quota of 2.40 lakh CBU ICE and hybrid cars allowed in the first year at a concessional import duty of 8%.

Import Tariff Structure : How Much Duty EU Cars Will Pay in India

The concessional duties on imports to India are only for ICE and hybrid cars priced above 15,000 euros (approximately Rs 16.63 lakh) from the first year, while pure electric and plug-in hybrid cars will receive concessional access only from the fifth year, that too, for vehicles priced above 20,000 euros (approximately Rs 22.17 lakh).

In the first year of the FTA, cars with a CIF value of 15,000 euros to 35,000 euros will attract a 35% duty within the quota. Cars valued at 35,000 euros to 50,000 euros and those above 50,000 euros will face a 30% duty. Cars priced below 15,000 euros will not receive a tariff concession in the first year.

Opportunity for Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and BMW in India

Lower tariffs on imported cars to India will open a big opportunity for European automakers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and BMW, looking to export CBUs from Europe. Many of these companies already assemble imported kits (CKD) in India at a tariff of around 16%. But lower duties on CBUs could make it viable for them to bring a wider range of niche, performance and high-end models from Europe.

Car Import Quota to Rise From 1 Lakh to 1.6 Lakh Units

The first-year quota of 1 lakh cars will include 34,000 units in the 15,000-35,000-euro band, 33,000 units in the 35,000-50,000-euro band and 33,000 units for models priced above 50,000 euros. The quota will increase to 1.075 lakh vehicles in the second year, 1.30 lakh units in the fifth year and 1.60 lkah from the tenth year. The preferential duty across the three price bands will be 10% from the tenth year.

Tariffs on Cars Imported Outside the Quota

Cars imported outside the quota will face higher duties, ranging from 66-110%, depending on the applicable tariff line and the vehicle value. These out-of-quota rates will decline gradually to 30-35% by the tenth year.

Separate Quota for Electric and Plug-in Hybrid Car Imports

The FTA provides a separate tariff quota for CBUs of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles starting from the fifth year. The quota will begin at 20,000 vehicles in the fifth year and gradually increase to 90,000 vehicles by the fourteenth year. The preferential duty for vehicles within the quota will be 30% in the fifth year and will decline over time to 10% from the 10th year.

India's Reciprocal Car Export Quota to the EU

Meanwhile, the deal would allow export of 2.50 lakh CBU of ICE and hybrid cars with a CIF value of up to 50,000 euros in the first year with a concessional duty of 8%. The quota rises to 3.25 lakh vehicles in the fifth year and 4 lakh units from the 10th year with the duty falling to zero from the fifth year.

UK Business Minister To Meet JLR CEO Over Reported Job Cuts: Reuters

Eshisha Java — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 09:14:35

UK business minister Jonathan Reynolds will meet Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) CEO this week to discuss reported job cuts at the UK carmaker, Reuters reported on Sunday, citing comments Reynolds made to the BBC. The Times has reported that JLR could cut around 4,000 roles over two years.

Reynolds told the BBC that the government wanted to mitigate job losses but acknowledged that operating conditions for carmakers remained challenging in the UK and across Europe. He said discussions would need to focus on ensuring JLR has the workforce required to remain competitive.

JLR, which employs around 30,000 people in Britain and has its largest plant in Solihull, West Midlands, is owned by India's Tata Motors. The company said it needs to deliver £1.7 billion in savings over the next two years and will open a voluntary redundancy programme.

A JLR spokesperson said the company needs to adapt to changing global market conditions.

JLR Job Cuts Linked To Global Market Pressures

JLR has been affected by US tariffs under President Donald Trump, with the US representing an important market for its Range Rover and Defender models. The company is also facing increased competition from Chinese brands in the UK.

The Times reported that JLR could cut 4,000 roles over two years through a redundancy programme expected to be announced on Monday. The reported reductions would affect a workforce spread across the company's major sites in central and northern England.

The potential job cuts come as the UK government seeks to strengthen domestic manufacturing. Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who took office six weeks ago, has said he wants to reindustrialise Britain.

JLR Faces Tariffs And Chinese Competition

Chinese vehicle competition is adding pressure to the UK market, with models such as the Jaecoo 7 gaining sales. The Jaecoo 7 was ranked third among Britain's top-selling cars, according to the Reuters report.

JLR's planned savings programme comes alongside broader restructuring in the European automotive industry. German automaker Volkswagen's supervisory board recently approved a transformation plan involving 50,000 job cuts as the company responds to US tariffs and competition from Chinese manufacturers.

German Auto Industry to Lose 34,000 Jobs in 2026: Horváth Study

Arunima Pal — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:20:21

Germany’s automotive industry is expected to eliminate around 34,000 jobs in 2026 as manufacturers and suppliers intensify cost-cutting measures and reposition their businesses amid growing competition from Chinese companies, according to a study by consulting firm Horváth.

The estimate is based on an extrapolation of the study findings using total employment figures from the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). Globally, employment at the companies surveyed is expected to decline by only around 0.2 percent, with the reduction in Germany and Central Europe attributed largely to relocation activities.

At the same time, India is emerging as a key growth location for the industry. About 84 percent of the companies surveyed expect employment to increase in India, followed by Africa at 67 percent and North America at 61 percent.

The findings come from Horváth’s seventh annual ‘CxO Priorities’ study, based on interviews with more than 1,000 board members and senior executives at large internationally active companies, including 90 automotive OEMs and suppliers. Most respondents were based in Germany, with interviews conducted during the second quarter of 2026.

AI investment triples

AI transformation has become the second-highest strategic priority for Germany’s automotive industry, behind cost and earnings improvement. Companies are investing around 1.4 percent of their revenue in AI development and deployment in 2026, more than three times the previous year’s level and significantly above the 0.5 percent average for other manufacturing sectors.

Horváth said the focus is also shifting from individual AI applications towards end-to-end processes involving interconnected AI agents. Automotive companies expect AI-driven productivity gains of 20 percent in IT and digitalisation and 19 percent in research and development over the next three years.

However, expectations vary significantly among executives, reflecting uncertainty over how quickly AI’s potential can be translated into operational gains.

Cost pressure remains high

Profitability remains a major concern for automotive companies. The industry expects an average EBIT margin of 4.7 percent in 2026, less than half the 10.1 percent average across all industries.

Cost and earnings improvement remains the sector’s top strategic priority. Companies plan cost savings equivalent to 3.8 percent of revenue in 2026, up from 2.8 percent in 2025. Material costs are expected to account for 35 percent of the planned savings, while general administrative expenses contribute another 22 percent.

The pressure is also influencing decisions on production locations. According to Horváth, labour costs, permitting processes, flexibility and bureaucracy are among the factors affecting companies’ location strategies.

Confidence in policymakers declines

The study also points to growing dissatisfaction among automotive executives with policymakers in Germany and the European Union.

Some 92 percent of respondents said the German federal government had failed to improve the framework conditions for the automotive industry. This compares with 84 percent of executives who had expected the new federal government to strengthen competitiveness in the previous year.

Confidence in the EU is also limited, with only 26 percent of respondents believing the bloc will successfully reduce bureaucracy.

BEV transition continues

Despite the industry's financial and competitive pressures, investment in Germany is set to continue. German automotive companies plan to allocate 34 percent of their investments over the next five years to their domestic market.

A portion of this investment will be directed towards preparing existing facilities for new vehicle models, including through automation and AI deployment.

Meanwhile, two-thirds of surveyed executives remain confident that battery electric vehicles will achieve a breakthrough in Germany and Europe within the next three years.

The findings indicate that German automotive companies are pursuing a multi-pronged repositioning strategy: reducing costs, shifting parts of their operations geographically, investing in AI and other technologies, and adapting their product strategies to the continuing transition towards electric mobility.

Porsche sells MHP to Tata Consultancy Services in AI partnership

Eshisha Java — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 09:48:53

Porsche and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have signed an agreement for the sale of Porsche's management and IT consultancy MHP to TCS. The transaction is subject to regulatory and competition law approvals and is expected to be finalised in the coming months.

Under the proposed transaction, TCS will acquire MHP in its entirety through a subsidiary. The deal is part of a broader five-year strategic partnership between Porsche and TCS covering artificial intelligence (AI) services across Porsche's mobility value chain.

The companies plan to establish a dedicated AI Mobility Centre of Excellence for Porsche. It will focus on applying AI across manufacturing, engineering, operations and customer experience, with the objective of developing and scaling applications across the company's value chain.

TCS to establish AI Mobility Centre of Excellence for Porsche

The AI Mobility Centre of Excellence will focus on converting AI use cases into scalable solutions for Porsche. The partnership will combine Porsche's automotive engineering capabilities with TCS' expertise in AI, engineering, technology and business transformation.

The companies intend to use the partnership to accelerate the development, scaling and integration of AI applications in key business areas, as Porsche continues its digital transformation.

TCS CEO and managing director K. Krithivasan said the partnership will combine TCS' AI, engineering and technology capabilities with MHP's automotive consulting expertise.

MHP to retain brand and operate independently under TCS

Following the transaction, MHP will become part of TCS while retaining its existing brand and continuing to operate as an independent consultancy. Porsche and MHP will also continue their existing collaboration, with MHP remaining a partner for digitalisation and transformation projects at Porsche, particularly in artificial intelligence.

MHP has its headquarters in Ludwigsburg near Stuttgart and employs more than 4,500 people worldwide. The consultancy has more than 30 years of experience in strategy and IT transformation and works across sectors including automotive, manufacturing, aerospace, defence, energy and the public sector.

MHP acquisition strengthens TCS presence in automotive

MHP's areas of expertise include automotive transformation, artificial intelligence, software-defined manufacturing, supply chain management, cybersecurity, programme management, and platforms and ecosystems. Its existing relationship with Porsche includes work on complex automotive transformation programmes.

For TCS, the acquisition will strengthen its presence in Germany and among European automotive and industrial customers. The company said the combination of its global technology and engineering capabilities with MHP's automotive consulting expertise will support the scaling of AI applications for Porsche.

Porsche CEO Dr Michael Leiters said the transfer of MHP to TCS forms part of Porsche's strategy to focus on its core business, while the partnership with TCS is intended to combine Porsche's automotive expertise with TCS' digital technology and AI capabilities.

The acquisition remains subject to customary regulatory and competition law approvals. TCS will acquire MHP as a group of companies, with the transaction expected to be completed in the coming months.

Hyundai E3W, E4W win Gold at 2026 IDEA Awards

Eshisha Java — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:42:38

Hyundai’s E3W and E4W Electric Micro Mobility Concepts have won Gold in the Concepts & Speculative Design category at the 2026 IDEA Awards, organised by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). The concepts are listed in the IDEA Awards gallery under the Concepts & Speculative Design category.

The E3W and E4W were designed by Hyundai Genesis Global Design and co-developed and produced by TVS Motor Company. The concepts reinterpret the motor rickshaw format as an electric micro-mobility platform for urban applications.

Designed around dense traffic and everyday mobility requirements, the concepts use compact proportions and an angled windshield. The latter is intended to improve visibility for the driver, while the compact dimensions are aimed at allowing easier movement through urban traffic.

Both concepts feature a full-flat, barrier-free floor to facilitate entry and wheelchair access. Their seating can fold and dive to allow the interior to be changed between passenger and cargo configurations.

Hyundai E3W and E4W feature adaptable mobility-focused design

The E3W and E4W also incorporate adjustable ride height, which is intended to help maintain mobility on flooded or uneven streets. Simple digital interfaces and an ergonomic layout are used for the driver environment.

The concepts are based on a modular architecture that allows the same platform to be adapted for different applications. These include passenger transport, logistics and emergency roles.

Ather 450X Overtones Launched In Nepal With New Design Treatment

Eshisha Java — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:53:55

Ather Energy has introduced the 450X Overtones Series in Nepal, expanding its 450 Series offering in the company’s first international market. The new variant brings a tone-on-tone design treatment and is available in Still White, Space Grey and Lunar Grey.

Alongside the new variant, Ather has introduced Magic Twist, Infinite Cruise and Voice on Ather across the 450 Series in Nepal. The company entered the Nepalese market in November 2023 with the 450 Series and added the Rizta to its portfolio in 2025.

Ather Chief Business Officer Ravneet Singh Phokela said the 450X Overtones Series expands the company’s portfolio in Nepal while adding another design option to the 450 range.

Ather 450X Overtones design and colours

The 450X Overtones uses a tone-on-tone finish across three colour options: Still White, Space Grey and Lunar Grey. Ather says different textures and finishes have been used across the scooter to accentuate its form while retaining the existing design treatment of the 450 Series.

Ather 450 Series gets new technology in Nepal

The 450 Series in Nepal now features Magic Twist, Infinite Cruise and Voice on Ather. Magic Twist allows riders to decelerate by twisting the throttle backwards, using regenerative braking to slow the scooter while recovering energy.

Infinite Cruise is designed to maintain a consistent speed with reduced throttle input. Voice on Ather, powered by AtherStack 7.0, allows users with a compatible Bluetooth headset or smart helmet to issue voice commands for functions including navigation, locating charging stations and supported scooter settings.

Ather’s Nepal retail and charging network

Since entering Nepal, Ather has established 14 experience centres and 31 fast charging points through national distributor Vaidya Energy Pvt. Ltd. The company also operates 42 experience centres in Sri Lanka, while its India network stands at 715 experience centres.

JLR, Stellantis Explore North American Production Of US-Focused Defender Models

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:22:21

Jaguar Land Rover is exploring the production of new Defender vehicles in North America through a proposed collaboration with Stellantis, as the British luxury carmaker looks for a viable route to expand its manufacturing presence in the region.

The Tata Motors-owned company has signed a memorandum of understanding with Stellantis to examine opportunities for vehicles designed specifically for the US market. The products would enter new segments under the Defender brand rather than replicate models currently made at JLR’s plants.

JLR has not disclosed the proposed vehicles, production location, investment, platform or commercial structure. The arrangement remains under evaluation.

“Our approach to North America is that we’ve signed an MoU with Stellantis, looking at producing vehicles which are specific to the US market in North America,” JLR Chief Financial Officer Richard Molyneux said during Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles’ Q1 FY27 earnings call.

“We know we need to get some production on the right side of the tariff barrier, but it makes no sense for us just duplicating production of our existing vehicles,” he added.

Molyneux said JLR’s approach would involve “new vehicles, new segments” under the Defender brand, produced in the US. No manufacturing agreement has been finalised.

US Localisation at Viable Scale

North America is expected to contribute a significant part of JLR’s targeted double-digit revenue growth over the next five years. The company sees the region’s preference for premium SUVs and its large affluent customer base as a strong fit for Range Rover, Defender and Jaguar.

JLR does not believe that establishing a standalone US plant for its existing vehicles would be viable at current volumes.

The company sells around 30,000 Defenders annually in the US, according to management. Molyneux said local production would not be efficient at annual volumes of 30,000 or even 50,000 units.

Working with Stellantis could allow JLR to establish production in North America without investing in a standalone plant. JLR has not confirmed the factory, platform or manufacturing arrangement under consideration.

The memorandum remains exploratory. Any vehicle or production programme would require the companies to reach definitive agreements.

Tariff Protection and Currency Hedge

Producing vehicles in North America could reduce JLR’s exposure to changes in US import duties on vehicles shipped from the UK.

During part of the corresponding quarter last year, JLR paid US duties at 27.5% before subsequent trade arrangements came into effect. The comparison resulted in tariffs showing as favourable in JLR’s Q1 FY27 earnings.

Local production could provide greater protection against future changes in trade policy, particularly as JLR gives North America a larger role in its growth plans.

The proposed Stellantis arrangement could also provide a natural hedge against movements in the pound-dollar exchange rate.

JLR earns a significant share of its revenue in dollars, while much of its production and fixed-cost base is denominated in pounds. Manufacturing in North America could allow part of its dollar revenue to be matched with dollar-denominated costs.

“If that becomes real and goes into production, then we end up with much more of a natural hedge to what is at the moment an extremely large long-dollar position,” Molyneux said.

“That’s another small piece of our thinking behind the move to that MoU with Stellantis,” he added.

JLR also uses financial hedges and dollar-denominated borrowings to manage currency volatility. North American production would add an operating hedge to those measures.

Defender to Lead US-specific Expansion

The Defender brand is central to the proposed programme because of its position in the US and its potential to extend into additional vehicle categories.

Management said Defender wholesales remained strong during the first quarter even as JLR’s total wholesales declined 9.2% year on year.

Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Defender together accounted for 80.8% of JLR’s wholesale volumes in Q1 FY27, up from 77.2% a year earlier.

JLR and Stellantis are considering products aimed specifically at US customers rather than transferring production of the current Defender to North America. This would allow JLR to retain its existing manufacturing footprint while using the Defender brand to enter new segments.

The talks form part of JLR’s sharper focus on North America. Management said the US accounts for around 40% of the world’s millionaires and has a strong preference for SUVs.

JLR also plans to vary its powertrain mix by region. It expects to sell progressively more combustion-engine vehicles in North America while directing a greater share of its battery-electric vehicles towards the UK and Europe.

The Stellantis discussions offer JLR a possible route to establish North American production without committing to an independent factory. The next stage will depend on the products identified, the platform selected, the manufacturing location and whether the two companies can agree on a viable commercial structure.

JLR Expects Average Selling Price Above £80,000, Targets Double-Digit Revenue Growth

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:15:59

Jaguar Land Rover expects its average selling price to move well beyond £80,000 per vehicle over the next 18 months as it targets double-digit revenue growth over five years.

The Tata Motors-owned luxury carmaker is placing North America at the centre of its growth plans while working to deliver £1.7 billion in savings over two years. A greater contribution from Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Defender is expected to support revenue and profitability.

The targets follow a difficult start to FY27. JLR’s revenue declined 9.6% year on year to £5.97 billion in the quarter ended June 30, 2026, after wholesales fell 9.2%.

Adjusted EBIT margin narrowed to 2.8% from 4% a year earlier. Profit before tax and exceptional items declined 68.9% to £109 million, while free cash flow was negative at £998 million.

Production was disrupted by a fire at a major component supplier, while the conflict in West Asia affected sales. The planned run-out of outgoing Jaguar models also pulled down volumes.

JLR retained its FY27 guidance despite the weaker quarter.

“The results, whilst weaker than we would have liked, are not inconsistent with our full-year guidance,” JLR Chief Financial Officer Richard Molyneux said during Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles’ Q1 earnings call.

“It will, however, require strong performance for the remainder of the year,” he added.

North America Moves Up the Agenda

JLR expects North America to account for a significant part of its targeted growth. The region’s preference for large luxury SUVs and the established presence of Range Rover, Defender and Jaguar make it a priority market for the company.

Management said the US accounts for around 40% of the world’s millionaires, providing a large customer base for JLR’s high-value vehicles.

“Our focus is the US market for a significant part of that,” Molyneux said, referring to the company’s growth plans.

JLR also intends to vary its powertrain mix across regions. It expects to sell more combustion-engine vehicles in North America, while initially directing a greater proportion of its battery-electric models towards the UK and Europe.

“We will sell progressively more ICE in North America, progressively more BEV in the UK and in Europe,” Molyneux said.

The increased focus on North America comes as JLR faces continued pressure in China. Wholesales in China declined 25% year on year during the first quarter, making it the company’s weakest major market.

JLR said economic conditions, pressure on retailers and changes to luxury taxation had made the market more difficult. It is working to control retailer inventory and concentrate demand-generation efforts on Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Defender.

Management cautioned that conditions in China may not yet have bottomed out.

£1.7 Billion Savings Over Two Years

JLR has identified £1.7 billion in savings over two years under its Enterprise Missions programme.

The initiative will focus on the ex-works cost of vehicles, warranty expenditure and the company’s fixed-cost base. JLR plans to provide more details with its second-quarter results.

“You cannot shrink or save yourself to success. You have to grow and leverage scale,” Molyneux said.

JLR is approaching the peak of its current investment cycle. Spending is expected to remain at similar levels over the rest of FY27, although the mix will shift from engineering expenditure towards capital investment as new facilities come on stream and series production begins.

The company reported a capitalisation rate of 74% in the first quarter as investment remained elevated ahead of its next product cycle.

Average Selling Price Set to Rise

JLR expects its average selling price to move well beyond £80,000 over the next 18 months as the share of its most expensive models increases.

“This is the trend in our average sale price, continually rising and set to rise further as we launch our new products,” Molyneux said.

Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Defender accounted for 80.8% of JLR’s wholesale volumes in Q1 FY27, up from 77.2% a year earlier. The richer mix partly cushioned the effect of lower overall volumes during the quarter.

JLR also pointed to vehicle residual values as an indicator of pricing strength. Management said Range Rover and Defender led their respective segments on residual values in the US, while Range Rover and Range Rover Sport held the top positions in the UK.

However, the shift towards higher-value models has not insulated the company from tougher trading conditions. Retail variable marketing expenditure, which includes incentives, increased to 7.1% in Q1 from 4.1% a year earlier.

China accounted for a significant part of the increase. Incentives also remained elevated in the US compared with the corresponding quarter last year, when JLR had deliberately restricted sales allowances following the introduction of higher tariffs.

JLR’s challenge is to accelerate growth without diluting pricing as it recovers from the softer first quarter. That will require a turnaround in operating performance even as China remains under pressure and investment stays elevated.

JCB Hydromax Sets 406.320mph Hydrogen Land Speed Record

Eshisha Java — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 14:06:54

JCB Hydromax has set a 406.320mph world land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats, becoming the fastest hydrogen internal combustion vehicle to travel on land. The record is subject to official ratification by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

The twin-engined, 32-foot car recorded 400.623mph on its first run and 412.135mph on its second run. The two-way average of 406.320mph was recorded in accordance with FIA rules, with Wing Commander Andy Green OBE driving the vehicle.

The result exceeds the previous FIA-officiated hydrogen internal combustion benchmark of 185.5mph, set by the BMW H2R in 2004. It also surpasses JCB’s own 350.092mph diesel land speed record set by JCB Dieselmax at Bonneville in August 2006.

JCB Hydromax Uses Production-Based Hydrogen Engines

The JCB Hydromax is powered by two of JCB’s production-based hydrogen internal combustion engines, which have a combined output of 1,600bhp. The engines were manufactured at JCB’s engine factory in Foston, Derbyshire, and are also being used in JCB machines and equipment produced in the UK.

The engines form part of JCB’s £100 million hydrogen programme. JCB said more than 150 hydrogen combustion engines have been produced so far, with the first machines now in production.

JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has led the company’s hydrogen engine project, said the record attempt was intended to demonstrate the performance of its production-based hydrogen engine technology.

JCB Hydromax Becomes Fastest Hydrogen-Powered Vehicle

At 406.320mph, the Hydromax also exceeds the 303mph hydrogen fuel-cell land speed mark, making it the fastest hydrogen-powered vehicle of any type, according to JCB.

The record was set in Category A, Group XIV, Class 7 of the FIA World Flying Record Start Land Speed Record classification. Before the record attempt, the Hydromax had recorded 368.347mph at the Bonneville Speed Week, setting an SCTA record in the Blown Gas Streamliner class.
The record attempt was conducted by the engineering team led by JCB Engineering Director Ryan Ballard, with Andy Green at the wheel. Green previously drove the JCB Dieselmax to its 350.092mph FIA world diesel land speed record at Bonneville in 2006.
The latest record comes ahead of the opening of JCB’s new $500 million factory in San Antonio, Texas, which is expected to employ 1,500 people manufacturing machines for the US market.

JCB began developing hydrogen-powered construction equipment in 2021, when it unveiled prototype hydrogen-powered versions of a backhoe loader and Loadall telescopic handler. The company said a team of 150 engineers has been working on its hydrogen engine project as part of the £100 million investment.

YASA Secures UK Funding For Rare-Earth-Free Axial Flux Motor Development

Autocar Professional Bureau — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 21:10:56

YASA has secured UK Government grant funding to develop rare-earth-free and heavy-rare-earth-free axial flux electric motor technologies for future electric and hybrid vehicles.

The programme, named Project Resilience, will investigate two technology pathways designed to reduce dependence on rare-earth magnet materials while meeting the differing performance, packaging, cost and manufacturing requirements of future vehicle applications.

Two Rare-Earth-Free Motor Technology Pathways

For high-performance battery-electric and hybrid vehicles, YASA will develop heavy-rare-earth-free permanent-magnet motor designs intended to retain high power density without increasing motor weight or package size.

The company will also develop fully rare-earth-free axial flux motor technology for applications with different performance and cost requirements.

Why YASA Is Cutting Rare-Earth Magnet Dependence

Both development routes will use common YASA stator technology, allowing the company to develop a modular motor architecture with different rotor technologies selected according to individual vehicle programmes.

Inside the UK's DRIVE35 Funding Programme

YASA said the programme is intended to address risks associated with the geographically concentrated supply chains for rare-earth permanent magnets, including geopolitical uncertainty, export restrictions, price volatility and potential supply disruptions.

The company will carry out Project Resilience at its engineering and development facilities in the UK. The programme is funded through the UK Government's DRIVE35 Demonstrate competition, delivered by the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK and Innovate UK.

Tom Hillman, Head of Motor Simulation at YASA, said: “Different applications require different balances of performance, efficiency, packaging, cost and production volume, which is why we are developing two complementary technology routes rather than pursuing a single universal solution.”

The project forms part of the wider DRIVE35 programme, which supports research, scale-up and transformation of zero-emission vehicle technologies in the UK. The programme has £4 billion in grant funding available through 2035 for automotive R&D, scale-up and transformation.

YASA's Ownership Under Mercedes-Benz

YASA, which has been a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz Group since 2021, develops axial flux electric motors and power electronics for automotive applications.

BKT Extends Big Bash League Partnership Until 2028-29 Season

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:06:54

Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) has extended its partnership with Cricket Australia for another three years, continuing as the naming rights partner for the Golden Cap awards in the Big Bash League (BBL) until the end of the 2028-29 season. The renewal takes the partnership beyond 10 years, making it one of the league's longest-running commercial associations.

BKT's Big Bash League Association Crosses 10 Years

BKT has been an official partner of the Big Bash League since 2018. Under the renewed agreement, the company will continue its association with the BBL's Golden Bat and Golden Arm awards while supporting fan engagement initiatives linked to the tournament.

Australian Market Focus and India Expansion Underpin Renewal

The company said the extension reflects its continued focus on the Australian market, where cricket remains one of the country's most followed sports. Australia is a strategic market for BKT, which manufactures off-highway tyres and recently announced its entry into India's two-wheeler, passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle tyre segments.

"The extension of the partnership with the BBL has continued to evolve since 2018, bringing us to achieve significant milestones together. Australia remains a strategic market for BKT, and cricket is one of the country's most popular and passionately followed sports," said Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director, BKT.

According to Cricket Australia, the partnership will continue to support the Golden Bat and Golden Arm awards across the men's and women's Big Bash competitions, as well as fan engagement initiatives such as BKT Big Bash Tipping.

India-UK FTA: DGFT Imposes Use-It-or-Lose-It Rule on Automotive Import Quotas

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:13:17

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has operationalised the automotive import provisions of the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), paving the way for concessional-duty imports of up to 20,000 UK-built internal combustion engine passenger cars in the first year under the tariff rate quota (TRQ) mechanism. The notification also lays down the procedures governing quota allocation, eligibility, customs documentation and utilisation for eligible vehicle imports from the United Kingdom.

The first-year quota covers 20,000 internal combustion engine passenger cars, including 10,000 vehicles above 3,000 cc petrol or 2,500 cc diesel, 5,000 vehicles between 1,500 cc and 3,000 cc petrol (or up to 2,500 cc diesel), and 5,000 vehicles up to 1,500 cc. Separate tariff rate quota schedules have also been notified for ICE goods vehicles, while a dedicated TRQ regime for electric, hybrid and hydrogen-powered passenger cars will come into effect from the sixth year of the agreement. The notification also prescribes phased annual quota schedules and corresponding concessional customs duty rates over the duration of the pact.

The framework is expected to provide a preferential import route for eligible UK-built premium and luxury vehicles while retaining quantitative limits through annual quotas rather than permitting unrestricted concessional-duty imports. Manufacturers such as Jaguar Land Rover, MINI, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, McLaren and Lotus could be among those eligible to benefit, subject to meeting the origin and eligibility conditions prescribed under the notification.

The public notice establishes the operational framework for administering tariff rate quotas covering completely built-up (CBU) passenger cars and goods vehicles imported from the United Kingdom. It specifies eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, quota allocation methodology, customs procedures and utilisation conditions that importers must comply with to avail themselves of the concessional tariff benefits under the agreement.

Only original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), or dealers and channel partners authorised by UK vehicle manufacturers, will be eligible to apply for TRQ allocations. Applicants must furnish a pre-purchase agreement issued by the OEM specifying the quantity of vehicles proposed to be imported, while every consignment must be supported by a valid UK Certificate of Origin. The eligibility conditions effectively prevent unauthorised traders from independently accessing the concessional-duty quota. Importers have also been asked to endeavour to pass on the benefit of the concessional customs duty to the final buyer or consumer.

Where the total quantity sought by eligible applicants remains within the annual quota, applicants will receive the quantity requested. However, if applications exceed the notified limit, allocations will be made on a pro-rata basis in proportion to the quantities specified in the respective pre-purchase agreements. DGFT will electronically issue TRQ certificates and monitor cumulative utilisation, with authorisations ceasing once the annual quota has been exhausted.

The notification also introduces a mechanism aimed at improving utilisation of the quota. Importers that fail to utilise a significant portion of their allotted quota during a TRQ year could see such under-utilisation taken into account while determining allocations for the following year. The DGFT has also retained the flexibility to review the allocation methodology after two years based on utilisation trends, signalling that the framework may be refined to improve the effective utilisation of the concessional import quotas.

TRQ authorisations will remain valid for 12 months from the date of issue or until the end of the relevant calendar year, whichever is earlier. The notification, which takes immediate effect, completes the procedural framework required to operationalise the automotive market access commitments under the India-UK CETA, enabling eligible UK-built vehicles to be imported into India under concessional tariff quotas, subject to the prescribed conditions.

Xiaomi EV Expands Line-up With SkyNomad Large-Space SUV Series

Autocar Professional Bureau — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:31:10

Xiaomi EV has unveiled the SkyNomad, its second vehicle series, expanding its electric vehicle portfolio beyond the SU7 sedan and YU7 SUV. The new model range is positioned as an intelligent, reconfigurable large-space SUV and is designed around flexible interior usage rather than outright performance.

According to the company, the SkyNomad series has been developed to cater to buyers who use a single vehicle for multiple purposes, including daily commuting, family travel and working from the vehicle. Xiaomi says the cabin has been designed to function as an adaptable living space, with the interior capable of switching between passenger, cargo, workspace and lounge configurations.

The SUV is underpinned by Xiaomi's newly developed Kunlun Architecture, which enables a flat-floor layout and a long-track seating system intended to maximise interior flexibility. The platform also integrates the company's artificial intelligence capabilities, connected device ecosystem and smart manufacturing technologies to support the vehicle's adaptive interior functions.

Xiaomi said the concept behind the SkyNomad project emerged in early 2023 as changing consumer usage patterns increasingly prioritised cabin versatility over traditional measures such as seating capacity or interior comfort. The company noted that vehicles are increasingly being used as mobile workspaces, family activity areas and temporary living spaces in addition to transportation.

The SkyNomad series is aimed at professionals and families looking for a single vehicle capable of fulfilling multiple roles throughout the day. Xiaomi said the product has undergone three-and-a-half years of development and will initially be launched in mainland China. Pricing, technical specifications and launch timelines have not yet been disclosed.

"Our answer was to let intelligence define the space, to build a living interior that moves with you," said Lei Jun, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Xiaomi, in a Weibo post describing the development of the SkyNomad.

Ferrari Reveals Energy Management System for Hypersail Ocean Racing Yacht

Autocar Professional Bureau — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:51:31

Ferrari has unveiled the energy management concept for its Hypersail project, outlining the technology that will power what it describes as the world's first fully foiling monohull designed for offshore racing with complete energy autonomy.

The 100-foot yacht has been developed with a fully electric onboard energy architecture that eliminates reliance on conventional combustion-powered systems. Instead, it combines solar and wind energy harvesting with power generated by the crew to operate sailing systems and flight-control functions during long-distance ocean racing.

According to Ferrari, the energy management system was developed by the Hypersail technical team in Maranello with a focus on integrating multiple onboard systems while maximising efficiency. Renewable energy harvested from solar panels and wind turbines is supplemented by electricity generated by the crew through a new Winch-by-Wire system.

The Winch-by-Wire technology replaces conventional mechanical and hydraulic winch systems by converting the crew's physical effort directly into electrical energy. Rather than transmitting force mechanically, the electricity generated is distributed across the yacht to power sail adjustments and hydraulic systems. Ferrari says the technology allows crew members to maintain a more consistent operating cadence while handling loads of up to nine tonnes. The electric motors used in the system are derived from those employed in the active suspension systems of the Ferrari Purosangue and F80.

"Hypersail is the first foiling monohull for ocean racing to achieve complete energy autonomy. Thanks to an electrical system that ensures the ideal balance between efficiency and performance, alongside innovative solutions such as Winch-by-Wire, all on-board adjustments are powered entirely by energy generated while underway," said Marco Guglielmo Ribigini, Technical Team Leader of Ferrari Hypersail.

Below deck, the yacht uses an electronic control system with four voltage levels ranging from 12V to 800V. Ferrari has also developed an active Flight Controller that manages hydraulic flow for foil arms, the canting keel and control surfaces through separate operating modes for slower structural adjustments and rapid flight-control movements.

Energy is stored in twin 800V battery packs, which distribute power according to operational requirements. Renewable energy generation is supported by approximately 100 square metres of walkable solar panels integrated into the deck and topsides, while removable wind turbines mounted at the stern supplement power generation depending on sailing conditions. Ferrari said the placement of these systems was optimised to maximise energy output while limiting aerodynamic drag and additional weight.

Primus Partners Expands GCC Services with Gurugram Hub, Launches Centre for Linde-Wiemann

Autocar Professional Bureau — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:40:14

Primus Partners has expanded its Global Capability Centre (GCC) business with the launch of a new Global Capability Hub in Gurugram, marking its entry into end-to-end GCC build-and-operate services. The company has also established its first technology-focused GCC under the new model for Germany-based Tier-1 automotive supplier Linde-Wiemann.

The Gurugram-based centre will support Linde-Wiemann's global operations across enterprise resource planning (ERP), technology, business intelligence, finance, and sales and supply chain functions. According to the company, the centre is expected to expand over time into engineering, design, digital and other specialised capabilities.

The announcement comes as Haryana seeks to attract a larger share of India's GCC investments following the introduction of its Global Capability Centres Policy, 2026. The state currently hosts more than 270 GCCs, including centres operated by several Fortune 200 companies.

Primus Partners said it has observed increasing interest from multinational companies evaluating Haryana, particularly Gurugram, as a location for new GCC investments. The firm added that companies are increasingly seeking partners that can support the full GCC lifecycle, including strategy, establishment, operations and long-term capability development.

"Our engagement with Linde-Wiemann is an important milestone in that journey and reflects the growing confidence global enterprises have in Haryana as a strategic destination for future-ready Global Capability Centres," said Nilaya Varma, Global CEO, Primus Partners.

The company says Gurugram's established automotive and manufacturing ecosystem, engineering talent pool, proximity to the National Capital Region, and policy support have driven growing interest from global enterprises considering the region for future GCC operations.

Ferrari Revives Manual Gear Shifting With Limited-Run 12Cilindri Manuale

Autocar Professional Bureau — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:09:47

Ferrari has unveiled the 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-production derivative of the 12Cilindri that introduces a newly developed by-wire manual control system aimed at recreating the experience of a traditional manual gearbox while retaining the underlying eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Production will be capped at 1,499 units globally.

The model combines Ferrari's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine with what the company calls its Manuale by-wire system. Instead of a conventional manual transmission, the setup integrates a physical gear lever and clutch-by-wire pedal with the existing dual-clutch gearbox, allowing drivers to shift manually while also offering a fully automatic driving mode.

Ferrari says the system has been engineered in-house at Maranello and is designed to replicate the tactile feel and mechanical feedback associated with traditional manual gearboxes through electronically controlled hardware. The gear selector employs dedicated kinematic mechanisms to simulate shift resistance and engagement, while the clutch pedal digitally controls the transmission's clutch pack to recreate the load characteristics of a conventional clutch.

The cabin has also been redesigned to reflect the manual driving experience. It features a new centre console with an open-gate-inspired shift pattern, a round aluminium gear knob displaying the selected gear and driving mode, and a three-pedal layout. Ferrari has also removed the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, making the gear lever and clutch the primary interface for changing gears.

Power continues to come from Ferrari's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine producing 830hp at 9,250rpm and 678Nm of torque at 7,250rpm. The engine revs to 9,500rpm, while claimed performance figures include a 0-100kph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of over 340kph.

Ferrari says the Manuale by-wire system has been calibrated to reproduce familiar manual driving characteristics, including heel-and-toe downshifts and the possibility of stalling the engine if the clutch is not operated correctly. Drivers can also switch between manual and automatic modes depending on driving conditions.

The 12Cilindri Manuale will be offered exclusively through Ferrari's Tailor Made personalisation programme. Along with bespoke exterior finishes and interior trims, the special edition receives unique forged wheels, laser-etched badging, a revised front splitter and rear wing detailing inspired by the Ferrari 365 GTB4, and aluminium door sills bearing the model's logo.

The production run of 1,499 cars references the 1,499cc displacement of Ferrari's first V12 engine introduced in 1947, according to the company. Ferrari will also include its standard seven-year Genuine Maintenance programme with the model, covering scheduled servicing across its global dealer network.

BAM Opens Hydrogen Pipeline Test Facility to Support Germany’s Network Expansion

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:41:51

The German Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) has inaugurated a new living laboratory for hydrogen networks at its Test Site for Technical Safety near Baruth/Mark in Brandenburg. The facility houses the ModuH2Pipe modular test platform, designed to evaluate materials, components and operational processes for hydrogen pipeline networks under real-world operating conditions.

The facility comes as Germany advances plans to develop a hydrogen core network exceeding 9,000km by 2032, much of which will be created by repurposing existing natural gas pipelines. The national network is also expected to form part of the wider European Hydrogen Backbone, a planned cross-border hydrogen pipeline system projected to extend to around 50,000km by 2040.

The ModuH2Pipe platform enables testing of hydrogen infrastructure under varying operating scenarios, including repeated pressure cycles between 10 bar and 85 bar to simulate system start-up and shutdown. The facility can also introduce contaminants into the system to assess material ageing, potential damage mechanisms and the performance of pipeline components.

In addition to material testing, the platform will be used to validate manufacturing, welding and repair processes. BAM said non-destructive inspection techniques will also be assessed under operational conditions, with the findings supporting the development of digital diagnostic tools for service life estimation and maintenance planning.

The platform is also designed to conduct safety-related testing by exposing pipelines, valves and other components to pressures of up to 900 bar, allowing researchers to analyse failure scenarios and evaluate protective measures for hydrogen transport systems.

"The test platform is intended to become a driver of innovation for the hydrogen economy. Here, companies, grid operators and research institutions can test new materials, components, monitoring procedures, as well as maintenance and repair concepts under real-world conditions," said Dr Kai Holtappels, spokesperson for the H2Safety@BAM Hydrogen Competence Centre.

The project received EUR 3.8 million in funding from Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) under the federal government's economic stimulus and crisis management programme.

Valeo Appoints Jean-Luc Terrasse As CEO Of Light Division

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:58:05

Valeo has appointed Jean-Luc Terrasse as Chief Executive Officer of its Light Division and Group Executive Vice President, effective July 1, 2026. In his new role, Terrasse will report directly to CEO Christophe Périllat and become a member of the company's Executive Committee.

Terrasse succeeds Maurizio Martinelli, who is retiring after 26 years with the company. Valeo said the leadership transition comes as its Light Division continues to play a central role in the company's ELEVATE 2028 strategic plan, with a focus on profitable growth and lighting technologies for future mobility.

Terrasse brings more than 30 years of international industrial experience, having held senior leadership positions across Europe and South America. During his career at Valeo, which began in 1989, he has worked across multiple business units including Engine Management Systems, Body Electronics and Special Lighting Products, with responsibilities spanning operations, industrial management, product development and commercial leadership.

In addition to his tenure at Valeo, Terrasse has held roles at Alstom Grid, Johnson Controls Automotive and Safran. He most recently served as Vice President of Valeo's Wiper Systems product group, a position he assumed in January 2016. He holds an engineering degree from Centrale Lyon ENISE.

Commenting on the appointment, Christophe Périllat, CEO of Valeo, said, "Jean-Luc has extensive knowledge of the market and a deep knowledge of Valeo's culture and industrial excellence."

TVS Motor Launches Callisto 110 Scooter In Indonesia

Autocar Professional Bureau — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:56:18

TVS Motor Company has launched the new Callisto 110 scooter in Indonesia, marking an expansion of its presence in one of Southeast Asia's largest two-wheeler markets. The model has been introduced in Jakarta and targets the country's 110cc automatic scooter segment, which accounts for around half of total two-wheeler sales, according to the Asosiasi Industri Sepeda Motor Indonesia (AISI).

Speaking on the launch, Peyman Kargar, President, International Business, TVS Motor Company, said Indonesia remains a key market for the company and that the Callisto 110 has been developed under the 'Built for Real' philosophy to cater to the mobility requirements and lifestyle needs of Indonesian consumers.

The Callisto 110 is powered by a new engine equipped with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and features a stop-go system that the company says can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10% by automatically switching off the engine during brief halts.

The scooter is equipped with a 33-litre under-seat storage compartment capable of accommodating two half-face helmets, front fuel filling, an all-in-one lock system with a USB charging port, a long seat, adjustable rear suspension and Body Balance Technology. Safety features include an Emergency Brake Signal that activates during sudden braking above 50 km/h, along with an auto-off turn signal system.

TVS is offering the Callisto 110 in four colour options—Mint Green, Moon Silver, Solid White and Peach Perfect. The scooter is priced at IDR 20.9 million (on-road Jakarta), while the first 150 customers will be eligible for a launch price of IDR 19.9 million. Sales through the company's dealer network in Indonesia commenced on July 2.

Indonesia is one of TVS Motor's key international markets, with the company operating a manufacturing facility in Karawang, West Java, serving both domestic demand and exports to countries across Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America.

India-UK Trade Pact To Eliminate Tariffs On Auto Components From July 15

Autocar Professional Bureau — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:14:35

India and the United Kingdom will bring into force the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on July 15, 2026, marking a significant milestone in bilateral economic relations and creating new opportunities for Indian exporters, service providers and professionals.

The agreement, concluded after 14 rounds of negotiations, is designed to expand trade and investment flows between the two countries through tariff reductions, broader market access for services, and provisions to facilitate professional mobility. Alongside CETA, the Agreement on Social Security, also known as the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), will also take effect from the same date.

Tariff-Free Access for Auto Components
For the automotive sector, one of the key provisions is the elimination of UK tariffs on Indian engineering goods and auto components. Tariffs of up to 18 per cent on these products will be reduced to zero, improving the competitiveness of Indian component manufacturers in the UK market and potentially strengthening their participation in global automotive supply chains.

India's auto component industry has steadily expanded its export footprint in recent years, with manufacturers increasingly supplying parts to global vehicle makers and Tier-1 suppliers. The removal of tariff barriers could provide an additional boost to exports to the UK and support efforts to diversify overseas markets.

Services and Engineering Mobility Provisions
Beyond goods trade, the agreement includes commitments across 137 services sub-sectors and establishes mobility pathways for business visitors, intra-corporate transferees, contractual service suppliers, independent professionals and investors. These provisions could benefit Indian engineering and technology professionals working with UK-based automotive companies on areas such as vehicle development, software, connected-car technologies and mobility solutions.

Five-Year Social Security Exemption
The accompanying social security agreement is expected to support cross-border collaboration further. Under the arrangement, Indian professionals and their employers on temporary assignments in the UK will be exempt from making dual social security contributions. The exemption period has been extended from three years to five years.

According to the government, more than 75,000 Indian professionals and over 900 companies are expected to benefit from the revised framework. For automotive manufacturers, engineering service providers and component suppliers with employees deployed overseas, the extended exemption period could help lower assignment-related costs and improve workforce mobility.

With the agreement set to become operational next month, Indian automotive suppliers and engineering firms are expected to assess the opportunities arising from improved market access and a more streamlined framework for professional movement between the two countries.