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Tata Sierra Remains Tata Motors’ Third Best-selling SUV in CY2026 Despite Production Hurdles

Ajit Dalvi — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:50:18

The Tata Sierra, launched in end-November 2025 and the newest of Tata Motors’ six-pack of SUVs which includes the Nexon, Punch, Curvv, Harrier and Safari, continues to be the company’s third highest-selling SUV. This is despite Sierra production being disrupted at the Sanand, Gujarat plant twice this year – in Q2 CY2026 (April-June 2026) by a component supplier-related issue and, more recently, in end-July by flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the region both at the plant, which manufactures the Tiago, Tigor, Nexon and Sierra, as well as at suppliers’ facilities in and around Gujarat.

Between December 2025 and July 2026, the Tata Sierra – the modern avatar of the iconic model sold between 1991 and 2003 – has sold 50,038 units, crossing the 50,000-units wholesales milestone in the domestic market in a span of eight months. In CY2026’s first seven months, the Sierra’s 49,747 units make it the third-best-selling SUV for Tata Motors after the Punch and Nexon compact SUVs, and ahead of the Harrier, Curvv and Safari midsize SUVs.

As the wholesales data table below depicts, the Tata Sierra’s best monthly sales were in March 2026 (9,003 units) when it accounted for a 16% share of Tata Motors’ 55,748 SUV sales. However, since then, there has been a month-on-month drop in dispatches due to the disrupted production at the Sanand plant: April (7,316 units, down 19% MoM), May (6,606 units, down 10% MoM), June (6,392 units, down 3% MoM) and July (6,327 units, down 1% MoM). As a result, the Sierra’s share of Tata UV sales has reduced from 16% in March to 12% in July.

If it were not for the slowed-down production in April-June and end-July, the Sierra’s cumulative seven-month sales would have likely been higher by an additional 10,000 units, given that there is a sizeable backlog of consumer bookings for this popular midsize SUV. With production back on track, expect dispatches from August to see a marked increase.

The Sierra’s highest sales were in March (9,003 units), when it accounted for 16% of Tata Motors’ dispatches. Factory dispatches in Q2 CY2026 were impacted by localised supply chain constraints.

Within Tata Motors’ SUV portfolio, the Sierra is positioned between the Curvv and the Harrier, and goes head-to-head against the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara and Victoris, Renault Duster, Toyota Hyryder, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor and Citroen Aircross X.

The addition of the Sierra to Tata Motors’ SUV portfolio has given a boost to Tata Motors’ UV sales. The company’s cumulative January-July 2026 SUV sales at 369,615 units jumped 57% YoY (January-July 2025: 234,735 SUVs). This year’s sales comprise the Punch (140,616 units, up 47% YoY), Nexon (135,637 units, up 35% YoY), Sierra (49,747 units, New Model), Harrier (21,256 units, up 123% YoY), Curvv (11,556 units, down 44% YoY) and Safari (10,803 units, up 18% YoY).

The Tata Sierra, which won Autocar India’s Car of the Year 2026 title as well the Best Design & Styling, Viewer’s Choice for Car of the Year and the Midsize SUV of the Year awards, had impressed the jury with its premium, well-appointed cabin, a wide spread of powertrain options and a design that turns heads. Pricing for the 24-variant Tata Sierra, which has a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, starts from Rs 11.49 lakh through to Rs 21.29 lakh (ex-showroom). In terms of powertrain, the Sierra debuts Tata’s all-new 1.5-litre direct injection turbo-petrol engine and also has the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engine options on offer with manual and automatic transmissions. Fuel efficiency depends on the engine and transmission options. As per ARAI, the petrol variants deliver 16-18kpl, while the diesel variants deliver better fuel efficiency of 18-20kpl.

The Tata Sierra EV, launched on June 30, has a price sticker that starts at Rs 18.79 lakh and goes up to Rs 25.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned above the Curvv EV in the brand's EV lineup, the Sierra EV competes with the Mahindra BE 6, Hyundai Creta Electric, Vinfast VF6, Maruti e-Vitara, MG ZS EV and Tata Curvv EV. Offered with 35kWh and 75kWh battery packs, Tata Motors claims a maximum driving range of 665km (MIDC) for the 75kWh version and 535km (MIDC) for the 63kWh version, while DC fast charging can add 263km of range in 15 minutes. In its first verdict on the newest Tata EV, Autocar India calls the Sierra EV a “superb family car that just happens to be an EV” and that it is the best new Tata in years, which gets the smoothest powertrain the brand has to offer.

Tata Motors has sold 369,615 SUVs between January-July 2026, which gives the category an 83% share of the 442,669 PV sales, considerably higher than the 76% share they had a year ago.

SUV Share of Tata PV Sales Jumps to 83% in January-July 2026
As a result of the strong demand for its six-pack of SUVs, the SUV share in Tata Motors’ PV sales continues to rise. In the current calendar year’s first 7 months, the 369,615 SUVs sold account for 83% of total PV wholesales (442,669 units). This is a sizeable jump over the 76% SUV share in Tata Motors’ record passenger vehicle sales of 578,771 units in CY2025.

The growing SUV share in PV wholesales is also helped by the accelerated customer demand for EVs, a segment where Tata is the market leader and has the largest portfolio of seven models including four e-SUVs – Nexon EV, Punch EV, Curvv EV, Harrier EV and the recently launched Sierra EV. In the January-July 2026 period, Tata Motors EVs have clocked e-PV wholesales of 76,615 units, including a monthly best of 15,217 electric cars and SUVs this July. Now with Sierra ICE and Sierra EV production back on track, and the festive season coming along soon, it’s likely the Tata Sierra (ICE and EV) could close in on the 100,000 annual wholesales milestone in CY2026.

ALSO READ: Tata Motors dispatches 76,615 EVs in January-July, charges towards 150,000 milestone in CY2026

Compact SUVs Hit New High of 397,609 Units in Q1 FY2027, Tata Motors Commands 29% Share

Hyundai Motor India Targets 1 Million Connected Car Sales By 2027

Autocar Professional Bureau — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:44:15

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) has surpassed 0.8 million cumulative connected-car sales in India and is targeting the 1-million-unit milestone by 2027. The company said connected vehicle penetration across its portfolio has increased from 4% in 2019 to 20% in 2026.

HMIL introduced its Bluelink connected car technology in India in 2019 with the Hyundai Venue. Since then, the company has expanded its connected technology offerings across models including the Creta, Venue and i20, and introduced over-the-air (OTA) capabilities.

The company is also targeting more than 2 million cumulative connected car sales by 2030. Its connected vehicle roadmap is centred on the development of software-defined vehicles (SDVs), with the latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) technology introduced in 2025 offering controller OTA update capability.

Bluelink Features
Hyundai Bluelink currently offers more than 70 features covering safety, security and convenience. These include remote vehicle monitoring, vehicle health diagnostics, location tracking, trip history, remote commands, Hyundai Pay, Digital Key, Digital Passport and Remote Immobilizer.

The system also supports more than 450 AI-powered voice commands across five languages.

According to HMIL, its connected technology has assisted more than 0.5 million motorists through SOS and roadside assistance services. The company also said its systems have supported around 15,000 crash notification interventions and assisted law-enforcement agencies with vehicle tracing and recovery.

Next-Generation Connected Technology
HMIL said its upcoming mass-market electric SUV will offer next-generation connected car technology as standard across all variants. The company sees this as part of its strategy to integrate connected technology with its expanding electric vehicle portfolio.

Tarun Garg, MD and CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said: “As we move towards our goal of 1 million connected car sales by 2027, we remain focused on advancing software-defined mobility and expanding connected technologies across our portfolio.”

Software, generative AI reshaping vehicle development at Maruti Suzuki, says MD Hisashi Takeuchi

Kiran Murali — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:40:11

Maruti Suzuki is increasing its use of digital technologies as rising software content in vehicles and advances in generative artificial intelligence reshape product development and manufacturing.

Managing director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said technology was transforming the company in areas extending beyond vehicle powertrains.

“The rapid rise of software content in vehicles and the advances being made in Artificial Intelligence, particularly Generative AI, are fundamentally reshaping product development, manufacturing, quality management, safety improvement and customer experience,” Takeuchi said in his address to shareholders in the company's annual report for FY26

As Maruti Suzuki expands, digital technologies are becoming increasingly important for improving efficiency, enabling faster and better-informed decisions and enhancing organisational agility, he said.

“Across Maruti Suzuki, we are increasingly leveraging digital technologies,” Takeuchi added.

The growing use of software and artificial intelligence comes as Maruti Suzuki prepares for one of its most intensive product programmes. As Autocar Professional reported earlier, the carmaker plans to introduce nine models over the next three years and is looking to reduce vehicle development time by 25 percent, from 48 months to 36 months. The pipeline includes seven SUVs, although their rollout is planned over five years.

Maruti Suzuki is also working more closely with parent Suzuki Motor Corporation to build new models faster and at lower cost.

Chairman R C Bhargava said cooperation between the two companies had become closer and more integrated during FY2026, with both sides seeking to improve their competitiveness by strengthening the partnership.

“In particular, we are working closer than ever to strengthen our capacity for building new models of cars in shorter and more cost-effective ways,” Bhargava said in his address to shareholders.

“Engineering strength is the core value that leads to success of a car company,” he added.

Maruti Suzuki to make all new production lines flexible, says RC Bhargava

Kiran Murali — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:34:10

Maruti Suzuki will make all its new production lines flexible enough to switch between platforms and models in response to changes in demand, chairman RC Bhargava said in the company's annual report for FY26.

The move is aimed at addressing capacity mismatches that emerged after the company adjusted production over the past several years to account for falling small-car sales and the rapid growth of SUVs.

The subsequent recovery in small-car demand left Maruti Suzuki without adequate capacity for some models. The country’s largest carmaker ended March 2026 with 1.9 lakh pending bookings for vehicles it was unable to produce in sufficient numbers.

“This was the consequence of adjustments made over the past several years to cater to the fall in small car sales and the growth of the SUV market,” Bhargava said in his address to shareholders.

“We are remedying this situation by making all our new production lines flexible enough to permit your company to change platforms and models as may be required,” he added.

Bhargava said the changes had already started showing results. Maruti Suzuki’s small-car sales grew 35 percent in the first quarter of FY2027 as the company increased production of vehicles facing stronger demand.

The carmaker’s overall sales increased 38 percent during the quarter, compared with 28 percent growth for the industry. Small-car sales had grown 17 percent in the second half of FY2026 following the implementation of revised GST rates in September 2025.

Maruti Suzuki is implementing the flexible manufacturing strategy while expanding its production footprint. Its installed capacity is projected to reach 2.9 million vehicles by the end of FY2027 and 3.65 million units by the end of FY2031.

Two production lines have been commissioned at the company’s Kharkhoda plant in Haryana, while work is progressing on the third.

At Hansalpur in Gujarat, a fourth line with annual capacity of 250,000 vehicles has been commissioned. This has taken the plant’s capacity to one million units, making it Suzuki Motor Corporation’s largest manufacturing facility globally.

Maruti Suzuki has also begun work at a new site in Sanand, Gujarat, where it plans to establish an annual capacity of one million vehicles. The proposed investment at the site is Rs 35,000 crore.

The flexible lines, combined with the additional capacity at Kharkhoda, Hansalpur and Sanand, are intended to give Maruti Suzuki greater room to adjust its production mix as demand shifts between small cars and SUVs.

Maruti Suzuki prioritises localisation, alternate sourcing amid global supply-chain risks

Kiran Murali — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:29:32

Maruti Suzuki will prioritise localisation, alternate sourcing and supplier capability development as geopolitical uncertainty and the concentration of critical automotive supply chains in a few countries increase risks for the industry.

In the annual report for FY26, Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said the growing use of advanced technologies was increasing the industry’s dependence on specialised materials, semiconductors, batteries and electronic components.

Supply chains for many of these items remain concentrated in a limited number of countries, increasing the automotive industry’s exposure to disruptions.

Takeuchi said recent geopolitical developments, including the conflict in West Asia, had highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains and reinforced the need to balance efficiency with resilience.

“Localisation, alternate sourcing, supplier capability development and ecosystem development remain critical priorities,” Takeuchi said in his message to shareholders.

Takeuchi said these measures were intended to address immediate supply risks while supporting the development of a stronger domestic automotive ecosystem.

Maruti Suzuki is extending its focus beyond its own manufacturing operations to suppliers and dealer partners. During FY2026, the company assessed human-resource systems and human-rights practices at local Tier 1 suppliers accounting for 84 percent of its component purchases by value.

It also conducted more than 2,550 training programmes covering all Tier 1 suppliers and dealer partners during the year. The company continued to promote occupational health and safety, skill development and governance standards across its ecosystem.

Maruti Suzuki conducted more than 470 supplier assessments and awareness programmes relating to the management of substances of concern. It also extended a governance framework across its Tier 1 supplier base to strengthen transparency, risk management and ethical conduct.

The supplier initiatives come as greater use of semiconductors, batteries, electronics and specialised materials makes access to reliable supply chains increasingly important for new vehicle programmes.

Takeuchi said the objective was not merely to mitigate risk, but to strengthen India’s long-term competitiveness in future mobility technologies.

Path to Maruti Suzuki’s next million sales accelerating, says Hisashi Takeuchi; 7 SUVs lined up

Kiran Murali — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:24:27

Maruti Suzuki’s journey towards its “next million sales milestone” appears significantly faster than previously anticipated, Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said, as the carmaker prepares to introduce seven SUVs over the next five years.

Takeuchi said the momentum generated in FY26 had placed the country’s largest carmaker at an inflection point, with multiple growth engines moving simultaneously.

“The journey towards next million sales milestone appears significantly faster than previously anticipated,” Takeuchi said in his message to shareholders in the company’s annual report for FY26.

Maruti Suzuki sold a record 2.42 million vehicles in FY26, including 447,774 units in overseas markets. Annual production exceeded two million units for the second consecutive year, while the company also recorded its highest-ever domestic sales.

The carmaker plans to introduce seven SUVs over the next five years to to strengthen its presence in the segment.

Takeuchi said Maruti Suzuki’s SUV portfolio was strengthened during FY2026 with the launch of the Victoris and e Vitara. The e Vitara also marked the company’s entry into the battery electric vehicle market.

The planned SUV rollout comes as Maruti Suzuki expands manufacturing capacity to support its medium-term growth. Chairman RC Bhargava said installed capacity would reach 2.9 million units by the end of FY27 and 3.65 million units by the end of FY31.

Takeuchi said customer expectations were evolving beyond mobility, with buyers increasingly seeking safety, comfort, convenience and connectivity. Maruti Suzuki is expanding its product portfolio and manufacturing capacity as it moves towards its next million sales milestone.

Maruti Suzuki targets higher exports in FY27 as Japan becomes 3rd largest overseas market

Kiran Murali — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 23:58:14

Maruti Suzuki is targeting higher exports in FY27 despite problems in the Middle East, as Japan emerges as its third-largest overseas market and the carmaker strengthens its position as India’s leading passenger vehicle exporter.

The country’s largest carmaker now accounts for almost 50 percent of passenger vehicles exported from India, chairman RC Bhargava said in his address to shareholders in the company's annual report for FY26.

“Japan has become our third-largest export market. Export volumes are targeted to increase from last year’s level, despite the problems in the Middle East,” Bhargava said.

Maruti Suzuki exported a record 447,774 vehicles in FY2026 and remained India’s largest passenger vehicle exporter for the fifth consecutive year.

Managing director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said in his message to shareholders that Maruti Suzuki vehicles are now sold in nearly 120 countries through Suzuki Motor Corporation’s global distribution network. The broad geographical presence has reduced dependence on any single region and strengthened the resilience of the company’s export business.

Exports will continue to play an important role in Maruti Suzuki’s growth strategy. The commencement of e Vitara exports has enabled the carmaker to re-enter advanced markets such as Europe and Japan, while strengthening India’s position within Suzuki’s global operations, Takeuchi said.

Maruti Suzuki is also increasing the use of rail to move vehicles while reducing logistics costs, emissions and the risk of damage in transit.

Rail accounted for 26.5 percent of the company’s vehicle dispatches in FY2026. Maruti Suzuki expects the share to increase to 28 percent in FY2027.

“Moving cars by using rail transport continues to be a priority activity,” Bhargava said.

The railway siding at Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant is operational and has delivered cost savings and greater convenience. Bhargava said rail transport also reduces the carbon impact of vehicle dispatches and carries a lower risk of damage in transit.

A similar railway siding is planned at the company’s Kharkhoda manufacturing facility in Haryana, where two production lines have been commissioned and work is progressing on the third.

Maruti Suzuki targets nine lakh CNG vehicle sales in FY2027

Kiran Murali — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 23:51:33

Maruti Suzuki has set a target of selling nine lakh CNG vehicles in FY27 after volumes rose 58% in the first quarter, reinforcing the fuel’s importance in the carmaker’s multi-powertrain strategy.

The country’s largest carmaker sold 2.2 lakh CNG vehicles in the first quarter of this financial year, Chairman RC Bhargava said in his address to shareholders in the company’s annual report for FY26. This followed a 22% increase in CNG sales to 7.46 lakh units in FY26.

"CNG cars have been in much demand,” Bhargava said. “This year’s target is nine lakh CNG cars."

The target represents an increase of about 21% over FY26 volumes.

Maruti Suzuki Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi, in his message to shareholders that the company’s multi-pathway approach had helped it meet its Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency Phase 2 target for FY26 “by a good margin”.

Maruti Suzuki’s multi-powertrain strategy covers battery-electric vehicles, strong hybrids, CNG, compressed biogas, E20-compatible vehicles, and flex-fuel technologies.

“For a country as large and diverse as India, no single technology pathway can adequately address all mobility needs,” Takeuchi said.

He described the multi-powertrain approach as a practical route towards reducing carbon emissions while preserving affordability, customer choice and energy security, while remaining suited to local conditions.

Among these pathways, Maruti Suzuki sees a significant opportunity in compressed biogas. Takeuchi said India’s biomass resources could be used to produce low-carbon fuel locally, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and create supply chains supporting the rural economy. Using paddy straw as feedstock could also help reduce crop burning.

Maruti Suzuki’s board has approved four biogas plants in the first phase at an investment of Rs 561 crore. Bhargava said the company could make substantial further investments in biogas production and distribution after gaining experience from the initial projects.

The carmaker plans to consume more than 20 tonnes of biogas per day by FY31. It has also been working with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, over the past two years to study biogas production and the use of fermented organic manure.

The nine-lakh-unit target underlines the role CNG will continue to play in Maruti Suzuki’s efforts to reduce fleet emissions and meet regulatory requirements alongside electric vehicles, hybrids and biofuels.

Maruti Suzuki may revisit long-term targets as India car market heads towards 6.3 million units

Kiran Murali — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 23:28:16

Maruti Suzuki may revisit its long-term targets as it expects India’s passenger vehicle market to reach 6.1-6.3 million units by FY2031, with small cars likely to grow significantly faster than they did over the past five years.

The country’s largest carmaker is undertaking a fresh assessment of demand over the next five years following the momentum generated by the GST reforms, chairman RC Bhargava said in his address to shareholders in the annual report fo FY26.

“Presently, we are estimating that the car industry would grow to 6.1 to 6.3 million by FY2030-31 and that the share of the small-car market would grow significantly faster than what had happened in the last five years,” Bhargava said.

“This could lead to some changes in our longer-term targets,” he added.

The assessment comes as Maruti Suzuki accelerates its manufacturing expansion. Work has started on a new plant at Sanand in Gujarat, where the carmaker plans to invest Rs 35,000 crore and create annual capacity for one million vehicles.

Along with expansions at Kharkhoda and Hansalpur, the new plant will take Maruti Suzuki’s installed capacity to 2.9 million units by the end of FY2027 and 3.65 million units by the end of FY2031.

Maruti Suzuki’s small-car sales grew 17 percent in the second half of FY2026. They accelerated by 35 percent in the first quarter of FY2027 as the company increased production of models facing strong demand.

The company’s overall sales grew 38 percent in the first quarter, compared with 28 percent growth for the industry, Bhargava said. Retail sales had increased 17 percent in the second half of FY2026 following the implementation of revised GST rates on September 22, 2025.

The recovery in demand has exposed a mismatch between Maruti Suzuki’s production capacity and the models customers are seeking. The carmaker ended March 2026 with 1.9 lakh pending bookings because of inadequate manufacturing capacity for some models.

Bhargava attributed the shortage to production adjustments made over the past several years in response to falling small-car sales and the rapid growth of SUVs.

Maruti Suzuki is addressing the issue by making its new production lines flexible, allowing it to switch between platforms and models in response to changes in demand. Bhargava said the move had already started showing results, with more small cars being produced during the first quarter.

Two production lines have been commissioned at Kharkhoda in Haryana, while work is progressing on the third.

A fourth line, with an annual capacity of 250,000 vehicles, has been commissioned at Hansalpur in Gujarat. This has increased the facility’s installed capacity to one million units, making it Suzuki Motor Corporation’s largest manufacturing plant globally.

The company is also working more closely with parent Suzuki Motor Corporation to develop new models faster and at lower cost.

“In particular, we are working closer than ever to strengthen our capacity for building new models of cars in shorter and more cost-effective ways,” Bhargava said.

“Engineering strength is the core value that leads to success of a car company,” he added.

Audi Global CEO Backs Broader Powertrain Mix; EV Assembly Planned in India

Hormazd Sorabjee — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 19:53:53

Audi will pursue a broader powertrain strategy spanning battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and combustion engines, stepping away from its earlier plan to become an all-electric carmaker.

Global CEO Gernot Döllner said he reviewed Audi’s all-electric strategy after taking charge and decided that the company needed a more balanced product and powertrain mix to address the varying pace of EV adoption across markets.

“When I joined Audi, there was an all-electric strategy in place, which was one of the first things I reviewed,” Döllner told Autocar India in an exclusive interview. “We found a more balanced strategy between plug-in hybrids, especially important for Europe, combustion engine and electric.”

The slower-than-expected pace of EV adoption in several global markets has extended the relevance of combustion engines and plug-in hybrids. Audi expects to retain a focused combustion-engine and plug-in-hybrid portfolio, particularly for SUVs.

The company has recently completed a major investment cycle covering new petrol and diesel engines, plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles designed to meet Euro 7 and other global regulations.

“For sure, the majority of our investment will be in battery electric. That’s a given,” Döllner said.

Audi will continue to invest selectively in combustion engines, including efficiency improvements and transmission technology, but Döllner expects the pace of innovation to be much faster in EVs.

“The combustion engine is fairly mature. It’s at the very end of a 100-year innovation cycle, and battery electric is still at the very beginning, to be honest,” he said. “The dominant part of our investment will definitely be on the battery-electric side.”

Electric remains Audi’s leading technology

Audi’s decision to retain combustion engines and plug-in hybrids does not alter its long-term direction towards electric vehicles.

“Electric is, for Audi, still the leading technology,” Döllner said. “It’s our main priority to step by step become more electric.”

Audi currently has four battery-electric model lines globally and expects to increase this to five by the end of the year, with some available in more than one body style.

The company will, however, tailor the powertrain mix to individual regions. Plug-in hybrids will be particularly important in Europe, while the requirements of the US market will influence Audi’s future combustion-engine and PHEV portfolio, especially for SUVs.

In India, Audi’s immediate focus remains on petrol and electric vehicles. Diesel is not part of its current plan. The case for plug-in hybrids will depend partly on whether they receive any benefit under the India-EU FTA.

New electric products are also planned for India.

“From what I know, we also have decided to enter with new products in the electric segment in India,” Döllner said.

Audi has decided to assemble an electric vehicle in India, Autocar India learns, although the model and launch timing are still being worked out. The move from fully imported EVs to local assembly is now a question of when, rather than if.

The company was among the first luxury carmakers to enter India’s EV market with models such as the e-tron, e-tron Sportback, e-tron GT and Q8 e-tron. High import duties, however, restricted their reach and affected their resale-value proposition.

The Q6 e-tron is among the products being studied, but Audi has not decided which EV will be assembled in India. The selected model will need to offer the right combination of volume, pricing and suitability for local conditions.

Audi believes electric SUVs make more practical sense in India because their ground clearance is better suited to local road conditions. Sedans have not been ruled out, but SUVs offer a more practical proposition for battery-electric vehicles in the country.

Regional focus to shape future products

The broader powertrain approach is part of Döllner’s effort to make Audi more responsive to the requirements of individual regions.

“Audi has to act much more regional,” he said. “The times where we had a one size fits all, and we then bring it to China, just extend the wheelbase and do the same car, that doesn’t work anymore. We have to listen carefully to the markets.”

The Q9 is the first clear example of that approach. Conceived around the requirements of American customers, it will be the first Audi to make its market debut in the US.

“The Q9 is a perfect proof point of a car. The biggest Audi we’ve ever built,” Döllner said. “That car would not be there without the American market.”

India does not yet generate the volumes required for Audi to develop country-specific models. Local requirements covering ground clearance, suspension, tyres, weather, dust and fuel quality are, however, fed into its global development process.

The introduction of new models in India is also expected to move closer to their global launches, helping Audi benefit from the interest created when a vehicle is revealed internationally.

Döllner said the improvement in India’s manufacturing and automotive technology has changed how the country is viewed within the global industry.

“India is also an excellent proof point. It’s really unbelievable what the car industry has developed in India and what level of perfection and technology products are delivered,” he said.

“In the past, there has been this strong European automotive industry, and the world has turned around. Now we have a very dynamic Chinese market, a growing and rising Indian automotive industry. The US is a story of its own.”

“What keeps me awake at night is if we are able to change fast enough,” Döllner said. “We have to speed up.”

JLR Appoints Dedicated Discovery Boss as Brand Prepares for Repositioning

Ketan Thakkar — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 16:31:42

JLR has appointed Adam Constable to lead Discovery, creating a dedicated leadership role for the brand for the first time as the automaker prepares to reposition it under its House of Brands strategy.

Constable, currently global strategy director for Range Rover, will take charge of Discovery from September 1. He will also serve as managing director of Freelander, the electrified SUV brand being developed by Chery with JLR's backing.

The appointment comes as JLR continues to restructure its leadership and product portfolio across its four-brand strategy, which comprises Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar. Constable will be responsible for shaping the future direction of Discovery as the brand prepares for a new generation of products.

The move comes at a significant point for Discovery. The Discovery Sport is scheduled to end production later this year, while the fifth-generation Discovery is also nearing the end of its lifecycle. This could leave the brand without a model in the market during its transition to a new product portfolio.

JLR has previously indicated that Discovery will be positioned differently from Defender, despite the two brands operating in overlapping SUV segments. The focus is expected to shift towards family-oriented adventure, with greater emphasis on versatility and practicality. Future derivatives, including a potential replacement for the Discovery Sport, are expected to follow a similar positioning.

Constable brings experience across several areas of the automotive industry to the role. Before joining Range Rover's strategy team, he headed marketing for JLR's Special Vehicle Operations division and has held senior positions at Aston Martin and Prodrive.

His additional responsibility for Freelander is focused primarily on JLR's operations in China rather than the global retail operation of the new brand. Freelander's international retail activities will be managed by Chery alongside its other brands.

Despite Constable holding leadership responsibilities across both Discovery and Freelander, there are currently no plans for platform or component sharing between the two brands. His Freelander role will instead include oversight of JLR's China operations with Chery, including the Changshu manufacturing facility and Shanghai design centre, which contributed to the development of the new Freelander 8 SUV.

The appointment forms part of a wider leadership reshuffle at JLR which also includes new management positions for its UK operations, Defender and North America. For Discovery, however the initial priority will be defining a distinct market position and developing a product portfolio that can establish the brand as a standalone pillar within JLR's evolving business structure.

Credits: Autocar UK

Audi Extends Roadside Assistance for Rain-affected Cars in Delhi-NCR

Arunima Pal — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 16:24:27

Audi India has announced complimentary 24x7 roadside assistance (RSA) for customer vehicles affected by heavy rainfall in the Delhi-NCR region.

The support will be available across Delhi-NCR and will include assistance for vehicles that have been immobilised or affected by the ongoing rain and waterlogging. Customers can access the service through Audi's roadside assistance numbers, 1800 103 6800 and 1800 209 6800.

The assistance package includes on-site repairs, fuel delivery and spare-key support. Audi said customers may also receive travel or accommodation facilities, along with vehicle custody, transportation, storage and safekeeping services, depending on the circumstances.

"In light of the unprecedented challenges currently faced by our customers in the Delhi-NCR region, we remain fully committed to supporting them in every possible way. We are also monitoring situation in other cities and will extend support, as needed. Our teams are on standby to respond swiftly, ensuring the safety, comfort and well-being of our customers during this difficult time," said Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director, Audi India.

The announcement comes after several days of heavy rainfall across Delhi and neighbouring parts of the National Capital Region. Delhi recorded 127 mm of rain during the first seven days of August, making it the wettest opening week of August in 15 years. Heavy rain has also affected Gurugram and Noida, with waterlogging reported on several roads and traffic disruptions across the region.

Gurugram, in particular, has reported extensive waterlogging following repeated heavy spells, affecting major arterial roads and disrupting daily travel. The rainfall has also resulted in flooded roads and stranded vehicles in parts of the NCR.

For vehicles exposed to substantial waterlogging, Audi's roadside assistance is intended to provide support with vehicle recovery and transportation, alongside basic roadside services. Customers have been advised to contact their nearest Audi dealership for further information.

Audi said its teams are monitoring weather conditions in other cities and that additional support would be extended if required.

VinFast Opens First Bihar Dealership as India Network Reaches 60 Outlets

Dev Vadchhedia — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:23:01

VinFast Auto India announced that it has inaugurated its first 3S dealership in Bihar, marking its 60th retail outlet in the country.

VinFast's First 3S Facility in Bihar

The new facility, operated by Patliputra Motors Private Limited, is located in Patna. Spanning 11,500 square feet, the 3S outlet combines sales, service, and spare parts under one roof, featuring a 3,000 square foot showroom display area. The opening expands the company's footprint into eastern India, following its strategy to extend retail operations across tier 2 and tier 3 markets.

VinFast's Push Into Eastern India and Tier 2/3 Markets

"We are delighted to mark the milestone of 60 dealerships in India while establishing VinFast's presence in Bihar for the first time. This marks an important step in our growth journey and opens up new opportunities in a promising market in eastern India. VinFast remains committed to building a strong retail and after-sales network and accelerating the adoption of green mobility across the country," said Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India.

Pininfarina Names Davide Loris Amantea as Chief Creative Officer

Dev Vadchhedia — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 15:43:51

Pininfarina has appointed Davide Loris Amantea as its new Chief Creative Officer, reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer Paolo Dellachà.

In his new position starting this month, Amantea will direct the company's creative vision and assume responsibility for Mobility Design within the Mobility Business Unit, reporting functionally to Marco Busi.

Davide Amantea's Design Career at Pininfarina

Amantea brings international design experience across Europe and Asia, having worked with Fiat Group, Italdesign, Jaguar Land Rover, and NIO. He joined Automobili Pininfarina in 2018 and rose to Chief Design Officer, leading design for the Battista electric hyper GT, the Pura Vision show car, and the B95. His industry recognitions include Bloomberg's "50 Ones to Watch" selection in 2023 and the "Design Rising Star" award from Automotive News Europe in 2025.

Guglielmo Cartia to Lead New Heritage Department

Concurrently, Guglielmo Cartia will take leadership of the newly established Heritage Department, dedicated to preserving and developing the Pininfarina Historical Archive and Collection. Reporting to Amantea, Cartia will also support the Chief Creative Officer as an advisor for the Mobility Design team.

Tata Motors Announces Onam Offers and Special Editions for Kerala Market

Dev Vadchhedia — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:43:34

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles has announced a range of festive offers and special feature packages across its lineup in Kerala for Onam, valid throughout August 2026.

Tata Onam 2026: Model-Wise Discount Breakdown

The automaker is offering financial benefits of up to Rs 2.25 lakh across its of internal combustion engine and electric portfolio. Maximum benefits reach up to Rs 2,25,000 on the Harrier.ev, which includes a Rs 1,00,000 loyalty benefit and free insurance. Other model-wise savings include up to Rs 77,500 on the Curvv, Rs 72,500 on the Nexon, Rs 60,000 on the Nexon.ev, Rs 55,000 on the Curvv.ev, Rs 54,500 on the Altroz, Rs 47,000 each on the Harrier and Safari, and a Rs 30,000 loyalty benefit on the Sierra.

New Special Editions: Nexon CAMO, Sierra Jubilee & Punch HBX Pack

The campaign highlights styling and accessory packages across select models, led by the recently launched Nexon CAMO Edition starting at Rs 9.99 lakh with new colour options called Munnar Mist and Coorg Cloud. The Sierra Jubilee Edition offers exterior cladding, roof rails, and grille enhancements at a bundled premium of Rs 50,000 on Smart+ and Rs 40,000 on its Pure and Adventure trims. For the Punch, the HBX Pack is available as a dealer-installed accessory package for Rs 29,999, adding skid plates, body cladding, roof rail inserts, and a rear spoiler with up to a two-year warranty.

"Onam is a celebration of cherished traditions, meaningful reunions and the progress that every family takes pride in. It is a season of gratitude for how far they have come and optimism for the road ahead," said Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd.

MINI India Appoints Deutsche Motoren as Second Dealer Partner in Delhi NCR

Dev Vadchhedia — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:28:59

MINI India has appointed Deutsche Motoren as its second dealer partner in the Delhi NCR region, expanding its retail footprint in the local premium car market.

Inside the New MINI-BMW Showroom in Noida Sector 63

The new dealership is situated in Sector 63 in Noida, bringing the BMW and MINI brands under one roof. The facility includes space to display two MINI vehicles, alongside a dedicated lifestyle accessories zone for official brand merchandise. The outlet also integrates digital consultation tools to support sales, service, and customer interaction.

BMW Group India, Deutsche Motoren on the Delhi NCR Expansion

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, "Delhi NCR is an important market for MINI, shaped by customers who value individuality, progressive style and premium experiences. The appointment of Deutsche Motoren as our second MINI dealer partner in Delhi NCR is a strategic step in widening the brand's reach and deepening customer engagement in this high-potential region". Yadur Kapur, Dealer Principal, Deutsche Motoren, added, "With BMW and MINI under one roof, customers can experience BMW Group's premium retail standards while discovering a brand that celebrates individuality and self-expression".

India EV Retail Sales Cross 3.27 Lakh Units in July as Two-Wheeler, Three-Wheeler Segments Set New Records

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:03:42

Electric vehicle (EV) retail sales in India reached an all-time high of 327,901 units in July 2026, registering a 66.2 per cent year-on-year increase from 197,298 units a year earlier, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). The performance lifted EV penetration across the overall automotive market to nearly one in eight vehicle sales, supported by record volumes in the two-wheeler segment and higher adoption across commercial and passenger vehicle categories.

The two-wheeler segment remained the largest contributor to EV volumes, while electric three-wheelers continued to dominate their category with more than 65 per cent market share. Passenger vehicle EV sales also recorded strong growth, although dealer body FADA said supply constraints on popular models continue to limit demand.

“India has never bought more electric vehicles in a month than it did in July'26 — 3,27,901 units, up over 66% YoY — with nearly one in eight vehicles retailed now electric. Every category told the same story in its own way. Two-Wheelers crossed the two-lakh mark for the first time, at a record 11.2% share. Three-Wheelers, at 65.1%, have made electric the default, not the alternative. Commercial Vehicles nearly tripled to a record 3.57% share — fleet electrification has moved from pilots to purchase orders. And Passenger EVs grew 83% over last year, held back only by supply of in-demand models — which we urge OEMs to resolve before the festive rush. The EV transition has stopped being a forecast. It is now a showroom reality — and Bharat is driving it,” said Sai Giridhar, Vice President, FADA.

Electric Two-Wheelers Cross 2 Lakh Units

Electric two-wheeler retail sales crossed the 200,000-unit milestone for the first time, rising 88.3 per cent year-on-year to 204,362 units, compared with 108,516 units in July 2025. EV penetration in the segment increased to 11.2 per cent, up from 7.7 percent a year earlier and 10.6 percent in June.

TVS Motor retained the top position with 55,499 units, followed by Bajaj Auto at 45,613 units and Ather Energy with 30,357 units. Hero MotoCorp retailed 22,900 units, while Ola Electric recorded 14,106 units during the month.

Electric Three-Wheelers Maintain Majority Share

Electric three-wheeler retail sales increased 25.3 per cent year-on-year to 87,055 units, taking the segment's EV market share to 65.1 per cent, up from 60.3 per cent a year earlier.

Mahindra Group led the category with 14,191 units, narrowly ahead of Bajaj Auto, which retailed 13,442 units. TVS Motor followed with 4,473 units, while YC Electric Vehicle and Dilli Electric Auto completed the top five.

Passenger EV Sales Rise 83% Amid Supply Constraints

Passenger EV retail sales rose 83.1 per cent year-on-year to 32,928 units, compared with 17,981 units in July 2025. However, volumes declined marginally by 1.8 per cent from June. EV penetration in the passenger vehicle market remained at 7.9 per cent, unchanged from June but higher than 5.1 per cent in July last year.

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles remained the segment leader with 13,678 units, followed by Mahindra & Mahindra at 7,742 units and JSW MG Motor India with 5,689 units. Maruti Suzuki, VinFast, BYD and Hyundai also featured among the leading manufacturers.

Electric Commercial Vehicles Continue to Expand

Electric commercial vehicle retail sales nearly tripled year-on-year, increasing 168.6 per cent to 3,556 units from 1,324 units in July 2025. The segment's EV penetration improved to 3.57 per cent, compared with 1.65 per cent a year earlier.

Tata Motors led the segment with 1,306 units, followed by Euler Motors at 777 units and Mahindra Group with 362 units. Switch Mobility, Olectra Greentech and Tivolt Electric Vehicles also recorded higher sales during the month.

The July performance underscores continued growth in EV adoption across all vehicle categories, with two-wheelers accounting for the largest share of volumes and three-wheelers maintaining the highest level of electrification among mainstream vehicle segments.

India PV, CV Sales Rebound in FY2026 as SUVs Gain Further Ground: Rubix Report

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 12:59:40

India's passenger vehicle (PV) and commercial vehicle (CV) industry returned to growth in FY2026 following a slowdown in the previous year, with stronger domestic demand, higher exports and a continued shift towards utility vehicles, according to a new industry report by Rubix Data Sciences.

The report states that domestic passenger vehicle sales rose around 8% year-on-year in FY2026, while commercial vehicle sales increased about 12.5%. It attributes the recovery to the implementation of GST 2.0, which reduced the tax burden on vehicles, and lower RBI repo rates that improved vehicle financing conditions.

PV, CV Production and Sales Rise Over Five Years

India's passenger vehicle production increased from 3.06 million units in FY2021 to 5.54 million units in FY2026, while domestic sales grew from 2.71 million to 4.64 million units over the same period. Commercial vehicle production rose from 0.62 million to 1.17 million units, with sales increasing from 0.57 million to 1.08 million units.

SUVs Now Drive 65% of India's PV Sales

The report also highlights an ongoing shift in consumer preference towards utility vehicles. Their share of passenger vehicle sales climbed from 39% in FY2021 to 65% in FY2025, driven by growing demand for SUVs and crossovers. In the commercial vehicle segment, medium and heavy commercial vehicles expanded their share of sales from 28% to 39%, supported by demand from infrastructure projects, mining and long-haul freight transport.

India's Vehicle Exports Hit Record Highs, Led by Maruti Suzuki

On the export front, passenger vehicle exports reached a record 0.77 million units in FY2025, growing at a 17% CAGR. Saudi Arabia emerged as the largest destination for Indian truck exports, while the UAE led bus exports. Maruti Suzuki recorded exports of 4.47 lakh units during FY2025-26.

ADAS and EV Adoption Rising, but Challenges Remain

The report identifies policy support, including the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, expanding vehicle financing, growth in the pre-owned vehicle market and replacement demand under the Vehicle Scrappage Policy as key drivers for the sector. It also notes increasing adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with penetration rising from 6.2% in the first half of 2024 to 8.3% in the first half of 2025. Battery electric vehicle penetration in passenger vehicle registrations increased from 1% in 2022 to 4% in 2025, while overall four-wheeler EV penetration reached 5.35% in 2026.

However, the report cautions that the industry continues to face challenges including supply chain disruptions linked to West Asia, higher compliance costs from stricter emission norms, increasing engineering complexity and volatility in raw material prices.

Tenneco’s PV Suspension Share Grew from 48% to 55% in Eight Months: Arvind Chandra

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 12:33:54

Tenneco has expanded its share of India’s passenger vehicle suspension market from 48% to 55% in just eight months, driven by growing adoption of its Da Vinci suspension technology, new OEM programme wins, and increasing demand for premium ride quality, according to Arvind Chandra, Whole-time Director and CEO of Tenneco Clean Air India.

The Tier-1 supplier now commands a 55% share of the passenger vehicle shock absorber and strut market, meaning more than one in every two passenger vehicles sold in India uses a Tenneco suspension system.

What's Driving Tenneco's Market Share Growth in India

“We can now probably say that more than one in two cars in India has a Tenneco shock absorber,” Chandra told Autocar Professional. “Going from 48% to 55% in just eight months is crazy. In this industry, if you gain even one percentage point of market share, you normally do it over three years.”

According to Chandra, three factors have driven the company’s growth: higher content per vehicle, increasing exports, and market share gains from competitors.

Da Vinci Suspension: From One OEM to Industry-Wide Adoption

A major contributor has been the rapid acceptance of Tenneco’s Da Vinci mechanical suspension technology, which was first introduced with a single OEM before gaining wider industry interest.

“We started with one very strong disruptive OEM. After the first application became so successful, other Indian OEMs joined the fray, and overseas OEMs too. It has become like a FOMO situation,” he said.

While declining to identify the manufacturers, Chandra said Tenneco has secured additional applications with existing customers while also winning programmes from new Indian and overseas automakers.

New DCx32 Variant to Target A and B-Segment Cars

The company is now preparing to bring the technology to more affordable vehicles.

“We have now created a new Da Vinci for the low A and B segment. We are trying to make it standard across the entire Indian passenger vehicle market,” he said.

The new DCx32 variant has been developed specifically for A and B-segment passenger vehicles, allowing the company to significantly expand its addressable market.

Why Ride Quality Is the New Battleground for Indian Automakers

Chandra said suspension has become the next major area of differentiation for automakers as traditional differentiators such as infotainment, panoramic sunroofs, and ADAS become increasingly common.

“They’re not talking about sunroofs anymore. They’re not talking about ADAS anymore. They’re talking about ride quality,” he said.

He attributed the shift to rising consumer expectations, increasing disposable incomes, and growing competitive pressure from Chinese automakers.

“Chinese OEMs have the latest suspension technology. Indian OEMs know they have to differentiate, and ride quality has become one of the ways to do that,” he said.

Alongside premiumisation, Tenneco’s export growth and increasing technology content per vehicle have also helped the company outpace the broader market. The company’s Advanced Ride Technologies business grew 27.9% year-on-year in the first quarter of FY2027, helping drive overall value-added revenue growth of 18.4%.

Audi Global CEO Eyes Greater Localisation, Stronger Product Portfolio for India Reset

Hormazd Sorabjee — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 12:30:00

Audi is preparing a new plan for India built around a stronger product portfolio, greater local assembly and faster introduction of its global models, as the German luxury carmaker seeks to regain momentum in one of the world’s most promising automotive markets.

Global CEO Gernot Döllner said India is becoming increasingly important to Audi and the company is now working towards the right product and operating structure for the market.

“We will see a substantial portfolio, but it has to be focused to be able to be successful in India,” Döllner told Autocar India in an exclusive interview. “Every successful strategy starts with products. Without products, it does not make sense.”

The renewal will begin with the new-generation Q3 in the fourth quarter of 2026, followed by the A5 in the first half of 2027. The Q9 flagship SUV is also being evaluated for India, with work underway to assemble it locally.

The three models could reach the market within around nine months. Audi also plans to reduce the delay between global and Indian launches, which has left parts of its local range out of step with competitors in recent years.

The carmaker is targeting a doubling of its share of India’s luxury-car market from around 8-9 percent to 18-20 percent over the next three to five years.

“India is an increasingly important market, and we have to be honest. We have been quite struggling to find the right setup in that market,” Döllner said.

“I hope that we now, with the decisions that we have taken over the past years, are able to step by step find our position in the market. Trade agreements will help in the future, but we still have to clean up some things that we did wrong in the past.”

Audi sees the long-term potential but is still working out the volumes and cost structure needed to make the business viable.

“When it comes to market importance and to the perspective of the Indian market, it definitely is,” Döllner said. “We somehow still have not found the right complete volume and setup and business case behind that for the brand.”

Assembly is Only Step One

Greater local content will be necessary for Audi to compete in India, where import duties and adverse currency movements have pushed up prices.

“You will be only in the game if you have local content and you follow these rules that are implemented. That’s what we have to do,” Döllner said.

Locally assembled models are expected to account for around 90-95 percent of Audi’s future India business, Autocar India learns. Fully imported vehicles will largely be restricted to niche and brand-shaping models.

Audi currently assembles its core models at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The EA888 2.0-litre petrol engine used across much of the range is also assembled in India.

The company is working on the local assembly case for the Q9 and studying what would be required to assemble its 3.0-litre engine in India.

The Q9 will sit above the Q7 and add a new flagship to Audi’s India portfolio. It has been developed with greater emphasis on rear-seat occupants and is expected to offer different seating configurations, an important consideration in India’s chauffeur-driven luxury segment.

Deep component sourcing will take longer. The relatively small volumes generated by individual luxury models make it difficult to create a viable domestic supplier base for every part. Audi will widen local assembly first and increase local content where the volumes support it.

New-generation models are becoming more expensive because of additional technology and regulatory requirements. The stronger euro has compounded that increase by raising the cost of imported vehicles and parts.

“The very strong euro compared to the dollar and other currencies is really hitting us badly, especially in markets like India where, due to the big competition, the margins are quite critical,” Döllner said.

Audi does not plan to counter the cost increase by offering stripped-down variants. Its sales data over the past five years shows that Indian luxury-car buyers favour better-equipped versions. The top variant accounts for around 55 per cent of sales, the middle version for 35 per cent and the entry variant for just 10 per cent.

The new Q3 and A5 will therefore be positioned competitively, but pricing alone will not be Audi’s play. The company believes buyers will pay for the latest technology and features if the product delivers enough value.

Network Expansion to Support New Products

Audi will expand its network from 29 showrooms to 40 by the end of 2027. Most existing outlets are also being upgraded to its latest global retail format.

Existing owners account for around 35 per cent of new Audi sales in India, giving the company a sizeable customer base as the new models arrive. Audi has also built its pre-owned business to the point where it sells one used Audi for every new car, creating another pool of customers who could move into new vehicles over time.

The India-EU FTA could allow Audi to introduce more niche and high-performance models. Imports, however, will remain a small part of the business, with locally assembled models continuing to drive volumes.

Even with a wider locally assembled range, Döllner expects profitability to remain challenging.

“Even with that, the margin situation in India is not fun.”