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Puneet Kaura Named Chairperson of CII Northern Region

Sarthak Mahajan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:21:57

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Northern Region has appointed Puneet Kaura, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Samtel Avionics, as its Chairperson for the 2026–27 term. The announcement was made during the organisation's annual regional meeting, held on 16 April in New Delhi alongside The Future India Summit, which carried the theme "Navigating Change. Driving Growth."

Shradha Suri Marwah, Chairperson and Managing Director of Subros Ltd, was named Deputy Chairperson. Together, the two will oversee CII's Northern Region operations spanning seven states — Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh — as well as the Union Territories of Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

At the meeting, Kaura outlined six strategic priorities for the region in the coming year: Policy Advocacy; Technology and Innovation Enablement; MSME Growth and Competitiveness; Skill Development; Sustainability and Community Engagement; and Membership Engagement.

The CII Northern Region functions as a non-government, not-for-profit body that works to cultivate an environment supportive of industrial development in India, engaging with government and civil society through advisory and consultative processes.

UK Grants £380 Million to Tata's Agratas for Somerset EV Battery Gigafactory

Sarthak Mahajan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:05:24

The United Kingdom's Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) has officially announced a £380 million grant, approximately $510 million, to Agratas, the battery manufacturing arm of India's Tata Group. The funding forms a key component of a broader £470 million government grant package aimed at strengthening domestic electric vehicle supply chains.

The grant was facilitated through the Department for Business and Trade's DRIVE35 Automotive Transformation Fund. The British High Commission in India described the development as a strong example of UK-India partnerships shaping the future of clean mobility.

The gigafactory represents a £4 billion private investment and is expected to create around 4,000 jobs directly, with Phase 1 becoming operational by late 2027. The facility is projected to become one of the largest battery manufacturing plants in Europe.

The manufacturing facility will be developed at the Gravity Smart Campus near Bridgwater, Somerset, with Agratas serving as the first and primary occupier on the site. The plant is expected to have a capacity of 40 gigawatt-hours.

The Somerset gigafactory will initially supply Jaguar Land Rover, with the potential to support wider automotive manufacturers in the future. The UK government says the Agratas project will strengthen economic security and reduce the country's reliance on imports by significantly boosting domestic battery production.

ISMA Pushes Back on Draft CAFE-3 Norms, Seeks Stronger Flex-Fuel Vehicle Incentives

Sarthak Mahajan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:32:36

The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has formally requested the Ministry of Power to reinstate stronger incentives for Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) under the Draft Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE-3) norms, citing concerns that the current draft's reduced provisions could dampen automotive industry momentum toward ethanol-compatible vehicles.

In its communication to the government, the apex industry body representing private and public sector sugar and bio-energy producers acknowledged ongoing policy support for ethanol-based transportation. However, ISMA expressed concern over the reduction of the Volume Derogation Factor (VDF), a key incentive parameter, in the latest regulatory draft, arguing that a weaker incentive structure may discourage automakers from accelerating FFV production.

India met its 20 percent ethanol blending target ahead of schedule, a milestone backed by sustained policy interventions and substantial investments from sugar mills and grain-based distilleries. ISMA noted that with ethanol production capacity now significantly exceeding current blending requirements, expanding the flex-fuel vehicle ecosystem represents the most direct pathway to absorbing the surplus, while simultaneously supporting rural incomes and ensuring stable returns for farmers.

The association also highlighted ethanol's role in reducing India's dependence on imported crude oil, contending that FFVs can contribute meaningfully to building resilience against geopolitical disruptions in global energy markets. ISMA noted that the ethanol programme has already demonstrated tangible gains in foreign exchange savings and in ensuring prompt payments to farmers through the supply chain.

Among its specific proposals, ISMA called for restoring earlier incentive levels under both the Carbon Neutrality Factor (CNF) and VDF provisions to maintain industry confidence. The body also recommended incorporating emerging vehicle technologies, including FFV-Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FFV-PHEV) and FFV-Range Extended Electric Vehicles (FFV-REEV), within the regulatory framework to ensure long-term adaptability.

ISMA further urged the timely notification of the CAFE-3 norms, stressing that regulatory clarity is essential for automakers, investors, and ethanol producers planning future commitments. The association stated that a stable, forward-looking policy environment is necessary for aligning India's transportation transition with its broader goals of energy security, environmental sustainability, and rural economic development.

The Ministry of Power has not yet issued a public response to ISMA's letter. The CAFE-3 norms, which govern fuel efficiency standards for passenger vehicles in India, are currently in the draft stage and subject to stakeholder consultation before final notification.

Fada Offers to Invest in EV Charging, Scrappage Infra in Delhi

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:16:49

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has proposed to directly invest in Delhi’s electric vehicle ecosystem, positioning dealers as active partners in the capital’s transition to cleaner mobility rather than just retail stakeholders.

Speaking at an industry event, FADA President C. S. Vigneshwar said the shift to EVs must be enabling and inclusive, particularly for dealer networks that serve as the last-mile interface with customers. Referring to the recently released EV policy draft, he said the industry supports the transition but emphasised that “enablement always goes faster than enforcement,” underscoring the need to align policy intent with on-ground realities.

Building on this, FADA Delhi Chairperson Shailendra Gupta outlined a set of investment-led proposals, signalling the willingness of the dealer community to contribute directly to ecosystem creation.

Gupta said FADA has proposed to set up 150 public EV charging stations across Delhi and is willing to fund the infrastructure as a partner to the government. He added that the association is also willing to establish vehicle scrappage centres in the city, where such infrastructure remains limited, in line with regulatory norms.

Beyond this, FADA has expressed readiness to develop dedicated auto zones equipped with integrated infrastructure such as internal roads, solar power systems, water treatment, and effluent management facilities, all to be developed and funded by the dealer ecosystem.

The proposals come alongside a request to the Delhi government to consider dealer participation as part of the broader EV policy framework, particularly given the scale and economic role of the sector.

Gupta noted that Delhi’s automobile dealers contribute about ₹7,150 crore annually to government revenues, including ₹2,650 crore through motor vehicle tax and ₹4,500 crore via GST, while supporting large-scale employment across the retail network.

FADA said it remains supportive of the EV transition and is willing to take on a larger role, provided policy frameworks enable such participation and align with ground realities.

Mercedes-Benz Expands Goa Network With New Margao Service Facility

Dev Vadchhedia — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:01:05

.Mercedes-Benz India inaugurated a new service facility in Margao, Goa, on April 17, 2026. Operated by franchise partner Counto Motors, the site marks the brand's first dedicated service center located in the South Goa region.

The Margao facility spans a total built-up area of nearly 8,600 square feet, which includes a covered showroom area measuring around 4,300 square feet. The workshop layout is equipped with four service bays, divided into two dedicated service bays and two supporting bays. The center is equipped to handle periodic maintenance, general repairs, advanced diagnostics, and genuine parts replacement.

Operations at the center integrate several digital systems, including XENTRY, Skyline, OAB, and Digital Service Drive tabs, which are utilized for vehicle diagnostics and providing real-time service updates to customers. The facility also offers warranty support and pick-up and drop services for customer convenience.

The new location serves as Counto Motors' second Mercedes-Benz outlet in the state, supplementing its existing 3S facility located in Ribandar, North Goa. Aakash Khaunte, Director of Counto Motors, stated that the Margao expansion improves accessibility for the growing customer base residing in South Goa. Shekhar Bhide, Vice President of Customer Services at Mercedes-Benz India, noted that the region is a fast-emerging market driven by evolving customer aspirations.

The Goa expansion aligns with broader corporate initiatives for the automaker. Mercedes-Benz has outlined plans to open 20 new dealerships and launch 12 new products across India during the 2026 calendar year.

CM Rekha Gupta Asks Dealers to Motivate Customers to Switch to EVs

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:11:06

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has called on automobile dealers to play a more proactive role in accelerating electric vehicle (EV) adoption, urging them to motivate customers to shift towards cleaner mobility solutions as part of Delhi’s broader anti-pollution strategy.

Speaking at the FADA Vyapar Delhi conference organised by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations, Gupta said dealers remain a critical interface between policy intent and consumer behaviour, and their role will be key in driving the transition to electric mobility.

“You have such a big domain. thousands of people use your vehicles daily. You should motivate them to shift to clean-energy vehicles,” she said.

Her remarks come as the Delhi government prepares to roll out an expanded EV policy framework that combines incentives with a phased move towards stricter regulations.

Shift from incentives to mandates

Gupta indicated that while the current EV policy framework is built on subsidies and incentives, the long-term direction is towards compulsory adoption of clean-energy vehicles.

“Gradually, all these things will be made compulsory. there is a time frame in which we can get rid of pollution from Delhi,” she said, signalling that policy measures could tighten significantly by 2027–2028.

The policy includes direct subsidies, tax waivers, registration fee exemptions and scrappage incentives, aimed at accelerating adoption before regulatory mandates take effect.

Dealers at the centre of transition

Positioning dealers as key enablers of the EV shift, Gupta emphasised their influence on buyer decisions.

“You should motivate people. take them towards EVs,” she said, urging the dealer network to actively support the transition.

She also indicated that the government is open to working with stakeholders to improve ease of doing business and strengthen vehicle registrations within Delhi.

Charging infra and ecosystem gaps

While backing the expansion of charging infrastructure, Gupta suggested that current targets may not be sufficient.

Referring to suggestions around setting up 150 charging stations, she said, “How will 150 stations be enough?” indicating the need for a more aggressive rollout.

She also flagged long-term challenges, particularly around battery disposal. “In the future, there will be a mountain of batteries,” she said, adding that the government is working on EV waste-processing systems.

Alongside EV adoption, the government is scaling investments in public transport and last-mile connectivity, including ₹10,000 crore towards metro expansion and 1,000 new permits for women to operate electric autos free of cost.

FADA Seeks Dealer Inclusion In Delhi EV Policy

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:01:49

As the Delhi government moves to firm up its electric vehicle policy framework, the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has called for greater inclusion of dealers in the policy roadmap, stressing the need to balance environmental goals with livelihoods on the ground.

Speaking at an industry event in the capital, FADA President C S Vigneshwar positioned Delhi as central to India’s mobility transition, both as a policy hub and a testbed for new ideas.

Referring to the recently released EV policy draft, he said the industry supports the shift to cleaner mobility, but emphasised that the transition must remain enabling and inclusive. “Enablement always goes faster than enforcement,” he said, adding that livelihoods across the dealer ecosystem must be factored into the policy framework.

Building on this, FADA Delhi Chairperson Shailendra Gupta urged the Delhi government to consider dealer perspectives as policies evolve. “I would like to request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to continue supporting our dealer community in upcoming policies, to consider our suggestions, and to ensure sustained employment and growth for every family dependent on this industry,” Gupta said.

Retail Growth And Economic Contribution
Delhi’s automobile retail market recorded a 17% growth in March 2026, reflecting strong demand across segments. Two-wheelers grew by 30%, passenger vehicles by 25% and commercial vehicles by 22%. Over the past year, nearly 800,000 new vehicles have been registered in the city. The dealer network, comprising around 550 outlets, employs close to 55,000 people and supports thousands of families linked to the trade.

Gupta also highlighted the sector’s fiscal contribution, noting that Delhi’s automobile dealers contribute about ₹7,150 crore annually to government revenues, which includes ₹2,650 crore through motor vehicle tax and ₹4,500 crore via GST.

EV Adoption Gathers Pace
Alongside conventional growth, Delhi is witnessing a rapid rise in EV adoption, particularly in commercial vehicles. Electric two-wheelers grew by 62%, passenger EVs by 41% and commercial EVs surged nearly 700%, signalling an accelerated transition in certain segments.

“India is no longer debating EVs. India is adopting EVs,” Gupta said, while cautioning that the pace of transition will vary across segments. “Growth is not always linear. Policy and ground realities must always remain aligned,” he added.

Dealers Seek Role As Transition Partners
Highlighting the role of dealers as the last-mile interface with customers, Vigneshwar noted that the operational burden of transition will largely fall on the retail network, reinforcing the need for alignment between policy intent and on-ground realities.

Gupta added that dealers are already handling multiple responsibilities, from customer education to EV adoption, inventory management and workforce training.
“The biggest burden of this transformation does not fall on OEMs alone; it falls on dealers,” he said.

To support the transition, FADA has outlined three key priorities for Delhi: policy stability, infrastructure development and employment generation.

On infrastructure, the association has proposed setting up 150 public EV charging stations in the city and has offered to fund them as a partner to the government. On skilling, it has proposed setting up training centres and centres of excellence at ITIs to build an EV-ready workforce, with employment linkages to dealerships and OEMs.

Scrappage, Auto Zones Proposed
FADA has also backed the vehicle scrappage policy, while highlighting the lack of adequate infrastructure in Delhi, and proposed setting up scrappage centres in partnership with the government.

In addition, the association has expressed willingness to lead the development of dedicated auto zones with integrated infrastructure such as internal roads, solar power and water treatment systems.

Balancing Transition With Livelihoods
Vigneshwar said the transition must not leave behind those who form the backbone of the industry. Gupta echoed the sentiment, framing the shift as both a challenge and an opportunity. “Delhi is changing, business is changing, and if we do not change, we risk being left behind,” he said. He added that dealers are ready to play a leading role in the transition, provided policy frameworks remain supportive and aligned with ground realities.

Simple Energy Prices Ultra Electric Scooter at Rs 2.34 Lakh

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:45:00

Simple Energy on April 17 announced the price of its Simple Ultra electric scooter at INR 2,34,999 (ex-showroom), with deliveries now underway across its retail network in India.

The Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler maker unveiled the Ultra earlier this year as part of its Gen 2 portfolio. The scooter is powered by a 6.5 kWh battery and offers an IDC range of 400 km, which the company claims is the longest of any electric scooter in India. It has a top speed of 115 kmph and accelerates from 0 to 40 kmph in 2.77 seconds, making it the second fastest electric scooter in India after the Simple One (5 kWh variant).

The Ultra comes equipped with four-level traction control and a seven-inch display console.

Suhas Rajkumar, Founder and CEO, said, "At Simple Energy, we engineer with intent. The Simple Ultra is built for riders who demand extreme range and performance without compromise. With a 400 km IDC range and high-performance architecture, it sets a new benchmark for electric two-wheelers in India. With prices now revealed and deliveries underway, we are delivering truly anxiety-free electric mobility at scale, backed by our expanding pan-India network."

The Ultra is available for test rides and purchase at Simple Stores or at simpleenergy.in. Simple Energy currently operates close to 70 touchpoints across cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, and Goa, and plans to expand to Nagpur, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar in the coming months.

The Simple Ultra is Simple Energy's fourth product action in 2026. Earlier this year, the company launched the Gen 2 versions of the Simple One and Simple OneS. The Simple One Gen 2 retails from INR 1,94,999 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru) with a range of up to 265 km, while the Simple OneS Gen 2 is priced at INR 1,74,999 with a range of 190 km.

Simple Energy Prices Ultra Electric Scooter at Rs 2.34 Lakh

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:45:00

Simple Energy on April 17 announced the price of its Simple Ultra electric scooter at INR 2,34,999 (ex-showroom), with deliveries now underway across its retail network in India.

The Ultra comes equipped with four-level traction control and a seven-inch display console.

Mercedes-Benz Faces Investor Heat Over China Recovery Strategy, Reuters Reports

Autocar Professional Bureau — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:38:27

Investors pressed Mercedes-Benz on its China recovery plans at the automaker's annual shareholders' meeting on Thursday, warning that an overly luxury-focused strategy could undermine the German brand's efforts to win back consumers in the world's largest car market, according to a Reuters report.

Like rivals BMW and Audi, Mercedes has lost significant ground in China, struggling to keep pace with fast-moving domestic brands such as BYD, NIO, and Li Auto, all of which offer technology-rich premium vehicles at prices that undercut European incumbents. Reuters reports that Mercedes' China sales fell 19% last year to 552,000 vehicles, with the decline accelerating sharply to 27% in the first quarter of 2026.

At the Stuttgart meeting, investors questioned whether Mercedes was doing enough to meet Chinese consumer standards on technology. Moritz Kronenberger of Union Investment, a top-20 shareholder holding approximately $276 million in stock, argued that the brand's traditional appeal is fast becoming a liability. He also criticised Mercedes for developing new products from the flagship S-Class downward, rather than adopting a more mass-market-led approach in line with Chinese rivals.

Tanja Bauer of Deka Investment, which holds around $191 million in Mercedes stock, flagged what she described as "the risk of an overly narrow focus on luxury" in her remarks to the meeting, Reuters reports.

In response, CEO Ola Källenius pointed to a sweeping product and technology overhaul for China, involving seven new models by 2027, alongside the rollout of advanced driver assistance systems co-developed with Chinese technology firm Momenta. Källenius described the initiative as the most ambitious in the company's history, backed by local development and partnerships. Finance chief Harald Wilhelm set out a medium-term volume target of 500,000 to 600,000 annual vehicle sales in China, a range that would represent a stabilisation of the brand's market position.

The pressure on Mercedes' luxury-first positioning is not confined to China. In India, the brand's dominance in the luxury segment is also showing signs of strain. BMW Group India overtook Mercedes-Benz in quarterly luxury car sales for the first time in more than a decade in Q1 2026, according to VAHAN registration data.

BMW recorded 4,944 units in the January–March period against a combined 4,862 units for Mercedes-Benz India and Mercedes-Benz AG, a narrow but symbolically significant gap. The divergence reflects contrasting strategic choices: Mercedes-Benz India has moved up the value chain, with its average selling price nearing ₹1 crore, while BMW has expanded its reach among first-time luxury buyers through a wider, more accessible portfolio including the iX1 EV.

Mercedes-Benz does retain the No. 1 position for the full financial year FY2026, with 18,160 units against BMW's 17,301, but the narrowing gap suggests that its premium-over-volume approach faces growing competitive pressure in one of the world's fastest-growing luxury car markets.

Exclusive: Royal Enfield Eyes Output of Up to 1.32 million 2Ws in FY27, Double-digit Growth in Domestic Volume

Ketan Thakkar — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:16:36

Despite growing competition from global brands such as Triumph, Harley-Davidson and Honda, Royal Enfield continues to outpace the broader motorcycle market, riding on sustained demand in the mid-size segment.

After crossing the 1-million mark in domestic dispatches and the 1.2-million mark in total dispatches in the financial year 2026, the company is looking to maintain its growth momentum with a fresh push in production and sales for the financial year 2027.

The company did not respond to Autocar Professional’s request for comment on its financial year 2027 production and sales plans.

According to sources familiar with the company’s plans, Royal Enfield is targeting to manufacture about 1.28-1.32 million two-wheelers in the financial year 2027, representing up to 6% growth from its estimated output of 1.24 million units in the financial year 2026. The company is also aiming to sustain strong domestic market demand momentum with double-digit growth after delivering a sharp rise in volumes over the past year.

Domestic volumes rose 23% to 1.11 million units, while exports also climbed 23% to 131,316 units, underlining balanced growth in both segments. The company’s total dispatches reached 12.39 million units in the financial year 2026, compared with 10.10 million in the previous year.

The growth story continues to be driven largely by the 350cc portfolio, which remains the backbone of Royal Enfield’s volumes. Models with engine capacity up to 350cc accounted for more than 10.87 lakh units during the financial year 2026, growing significantly faster than motorcycles in higher displacement categories.

Domestic sales stood at 1.11 million units, reflecting strong demand in the home market. Sources said the company is targeting to cross the 1.2 million mark in domestic sales this year as it builds on the momentum generated in the previous year.

The company’s rising volumes also translated into a stronger presence in the overall two-wheeler market. Its market share improved to 5.18%, up from 4.48% a year earlier, making it one of the major gainers in the industry during the financial year 2026. The steady performance was supported by sustained demand for its core models and continued expansion in international markets.

Alongside its core internal combustion portfolio, Royal Enfield has also taken its first step into the electric motorcycle segment, marking a significant shift in its long-term strategy. The company recently launched the Flying Flea C6, its first electric motorcycle, at an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.79 lakh, becoming the first traditional motorcycle maker in the country to roll out an electric motorcycle.

In a bid to lower the upfront cost, the company is offering the motorcycle at Rs 1.99 lakh under a battery-as-a-service option. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from the end of May, the company said.

The company plans to follow a phased rollout strategy, starting with Bengaluru, as it looks to gradually build its presence in the premium electric motorcycle segment. The Flying Flea C6 has been positioned as an urban-focused electric motorcycle, with the company aiming to differentiate on design, performance and connectivity rather than compete purely on price.

The model is the first product under the Flying Flea brand, which was unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan in 2024, where the company had announced two motorcycles — the classic-styled FF-C6 and the scrambler-styled FF-S6. The C6 will be followed by the S6 as part of the brand’s initial product portfolio.

With production targets rising, new products in the pipeline and a cautious entry into electric mobility, Royal Enfield appears to be positioning itself for another year of steady expansion as it builds on the strong base created in the financial year 2026.

The company remains optimistic about the outlook for the premium motorcycle segment, which is expected to grow faster than the broader industry. The company believes the overall motorcycle market is likely to expand in high single digits in the coming year, while the premium segment is expected to maintain stronger momentum.

“We will continue to outgrow the market. That’s our ambition,” Royal Enfield CEO B Govindarajan told investors earlier this year, pointing to a strong product pipeline and brand-building initiatives planned to coincide with the company’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

Toyota Kirloskar Sundaram Mobility Opens First Multi-Brand Pre-Owned Car Outlet in Bengaluru

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:12:19

Toyota Kirloskar Sundaram Mobility Pvt Ltd (TKSM) on April 17, 2026, inaugurated its first multi-brand pre-owned car retail outlet under the UTrust brand in Whitefield, Bengaluru, marking the company's entry into the certified used-car retail segment.

TKSM is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota Kirloskar Sundaram Automotive Solutions Pvt Ltd (TKSAS). The UTrust outlet integrates vehicle sourcing, refurbishment, retail, and service operations under one model, with each vehicle undergoing inspections, refurbishment using genuine parts, and backed by proprietary warranty packages, roadside assistance, and documentation support including RC transfer.

The company has appointed Rajesh Menon as President to lead its strategic growth. TKSM has stated it plans phased expansion across key Indian markets.

Geetanjali Kirloskar, Chairperson and Managing Director, Kirloskar Systems, said: "The inauguration of our first multi-brand pre-owned car retail outlet marks a significant milestone in building a customer-centric automotive retail platform. This initiative is focused on creating long-term value by bringing greater transparency, structure, and customer confidence to the pre-owned car market, while building on the strong foundation established through TServ Select and strengthening a future-ready mobility ecosystem."

Srivats Ram, Director, TSSF Group, said: "The launch of our first multi-brand pre-owned car retail outlet marks an important milestone in reimagining how customers buy and experience used vehicles. This venture is envisioned as a scalable, integrated mobility platform that brings together sourcing, refurbishment, retail, and service to enhance value and support sustainable, capital-efficient growth over the long term. By combining trust, transparency, and convenience, we aim to create a differentiated ownership journey while building a strong foundation for future expansion."

Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd, said: "The launch highlights the growing emphasis on structure and professionalism within the pre-owned car segment. An approach built around certification, defined processes, and service assurance can contribute to improved customer confidence and consistency, while supporting the segment's gradual development across markets."

Zelio E-Mobility Appoints Divyanshu Agarwal as CEO

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:07:43

Zelio E-Mobility, a Haryana-based electric two- and three-wheeler manufacturer, on April 15, 2026, appointed Divyanshu Agarwal, 26, as its Chief Executive Officer, following a resolution by circulation passed by its Board of Directors on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.

Agarwal, a Chartered Accountant, joins Zelio after stepping down from Navi Limited, the fintech firm founded by Sachin Bansal, where he had been associated since November 2021. He progressed from a finance associate to Head of UPI Business and Growth by July 2025, leading scaling operations, building partnerships, and participating in the company's DRHP process, private equity fundraising, and cross-functional projects. Prior to Navi, he trained at Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants in Kolkata handling statutory audits of listed companies.

At Zelio, Agarwal will oversee operational execution, development of new manufacturing plants including facilities in Odisha and Coimbatore, distribution expansion, and product-market alignment.

"Zelio is at a stage where growth needs to be backed by consistent execution and clarity in direction. The focus will be on strengthening the core, expanding reach in a measured way and building products that customers can rely on every day. The opportunity is significant, and the effort will be to build it with discipline," Agarwal said.

Kunal Arya, Managing Director of Zelio E-Mobility, said: "Divyanshu brings a strong understanding of both finance and business operations. He has seen how to build and scale in fast-moving environments. As we expand, the need is for sharper execution and long-term thinking, and he is well equipped to take that forward."

The appointment comes after Zelio E-Mobility raised ₹78.34 crore through its IPO, comprising a fresh issue of ₹58.84 crore and an offer for sale of 11.4 lakh shares worth ₹15.50 crore, with the issue closing at an overall subscription of 1.5 times.

The company currently operates through over 350 dealers across more than 20 states and union territories, with a customer base of over two lakh riders. Its portfolio includes electric two-wheelers under the Zelio brand and electric three-wheelers under the Tanga brand.

India Notifies First Chip Fabrication Plant at Dholera SEZ

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:17:18

The central government on April 9, 2026, notified a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing Private Limited at Dholera, Gujarat — India's first chip fabrication plant — covering 66.166 hectares and projected to employ 21,000 persons in electronic hardware, software, and IT-enabled services.

The SEZ includes enabling infrastructure and a dedicated approval mechanism to streamline operations and logistics. With a proposed investment of ₹91,000 crore, it will operate as an AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication facility.

The notification follows amendments to the SEZ Rules, 2006, made on June 3, 2025, which reduced the minimum land requirement from 50 hectares to 10 hectares, introduced flexibility in encumbrance norms, included free-of-cost supplies in Net Foreign Exchange calculations, and permitted domestic sales in the Domestic Tariff Area on payment of applicable duties.

Since the regulatory changes, the Board of Approval for SEZs has cleared four other semiconductor and electronics SEZs. Micron Semiconductor Technology India Pvt. Ltd was notified on June 23, 2025, for an Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging unit at Sanand, Gujarat, across 37.64 hectares with a proposed investment of ₹13,000 crore and projected employment of 20,786.

On the same date, Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster Private Limited received approval for an electronics components manufacturing SEZ across 11.549 hectares in Karnataka, with a proposed investment of ₹100 crore and projected employment of 4,360. CG Semi Pvt. Ltd. was notified on September 23, 2025, for outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing across 11.541 hectares, with a proposed investment of ₹2,150 crore and projected employment of 1,911. Kaynes Semicon Pvt. Ltd. followed on September 26, 2025, for an OSAT unit across 18.44 hectares, with a proposed investment of ₹681 crore and projected employment of 2,020.

The government has stated that these SEZs are expected to develop domestic value chains, generate high-skilled employment, and reduce import dependence in the semiconductor sector.

No Purchase Postponement Yet Amid Proposed ICE Ban in Delhi: Ashok Leyland

Mukul Yudhveer Singh — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:03:41

Ashok Leyland has ruled out any immediate impact of the proposed EV policy in Delhi on commercial vehicle demand, even as it acknowledged that customers are increasingly evaluating fuel choices more closely amid shifting economics and regulatory signals.

Speaking at a media roundtable held during the launch of twin-fuel variants of the DOST and DOST+ XL, Amandeep Singh, President – LCV, IO, Defence & Power Solutions, and Viplav Shah, Head – LCV Business, said that while the policy has triggered conversations in the market, it has not led to purchase delays. “Policy will play a role, but total cost of ownership will ultimately drive the customer’s decision,” Singh said.

Executives indicated that customer decision-making is becoming more application-led, with operators evaluating fuel options based on total cost of ownership rather than a fixed preference for a specific powertrain. “Nearly 46 to 50 percent of the customer’s expense is fuel. The profit that a customer makes largely comes from there,” Singh said.

During the interaction, a question around diesel being cheaper than CNG in some markets drew attention to the narrowing cost gap between the two fuels. Responding to this, Singh said, “A lot depends on how global fuel prices evolve. The gap is not very high right now, and these trends will keep changing,” he said.

Ashok Leyland maintained that fuel preferences are now influenced by a combination of regional price dynamics, infrastructure availability and usage patterns. “These are evolving conditions. Customers will decide based on what works best for their application,” Shah said.

Against this backdrop, the company has introduced CNG-petrol twin-fuel variants of its DOST range, aimed at providing operational flexibility in an uncertain environment.

The technology allows vehicles to run on CNG for cost efficiency while retaining petrol as a backup, helping operators manage range limitations and fuel availability concerns. “The objective is to eliminate availability anxiety and give customers flexibility to optimise their operating cost,” Shah said.

The DOST twin-fuel offers a payload of 1,218 kg and a range of about 400 km, while the DOST+ XL twin-fuel delivers 1,410 kg payload and up to 500 km range. Prices start at ₹8.20 lakh and ₹8.75 lakh, ex-showroom.

CNG Push

Despite increasing complexity in fuel economics, Ashok Leyland remains committed to expanding its CNG portfolio. The company indicated that it is targeting a meaningful share of its LCV volumes from CNG, with internal expectations around the 20 percent level over time, as adoption widens beyond traditional markets. “CNG demand is now expanding beyond Delhi NCR into states like Gujarat and Maharashtra as infrastructure improves,” Shah said.

India currently has around 9,000 CNG stations, with plans to double this network over the next four to five years. Rising fuel cost uncertainty and global developments are also nudging customers to explore electric options, particularly in last-mile applications.

“There is some anxiety in the market due to global developments. Customers are evaluating options that can reduce operating costs, including electric vehicles,” Singh said. However, the company emphasised that EVs will be part of a broader multi-fuel ecosystem rather than a standalone solution. “Diesel, CNG, EV, LNG and hydrogen will all have their place depending on application and ecosystem readiness,” Shah said.

The company maintained that underlying demand trends remain stable despite ongoing uncertainties. “The economic momentum continues to be strong. We have not seen any disruption in demand so far,” Singh said.

No Plan to Export Cars to Europe from India, FTA to Boost Tech & Component Flow: Renault's François Provost

Ketan Thakkar — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:47:23

Renault Group will not use India as a base to export cars to Europe, even if a free trade agreement between the two regions materialises, with the company instead positioning the country as a hub for technology, components and engineering.
“In the $2 billion, there is no export of vehicle to Europe,” François Provost told Autocar India, referring to the company’s export target from India by 2030.

Provost said India will still play a key role in Renault’s global plans, but the mix will be different from conventional export models. “I see potential of export from Chennai for vehicle, but I see a lot of potential for parts, components, technologies, R&D,” he said, pointing to a broader, capability-led approach rather than a pure vehicle export strategy.

He was cautious about the idea of shipping cars from India to developed markets, citing external uncertainties. “Exporting cars from India to Europe is not in my plan… I am cautious about it given geopolitics,” Provost said.

Instead, Renault is looking to leverage India’s strengths in engineering and cost-efficient innovation to support its global operations. “What is embedded in our plan is not just cars, but a lot of technologies and components,” he said, highlighting areas such as onboard connectivity and software as key export drivers.
These capabilities, he added, can be scaled quickly across regions that share common platforms. “What the team here will do in terms of connectivity on board… I have the opportunity to export this very quickly to markets like South America, because it is the same platform,” Provost said, underlining the speed and cost advantages India offers.

While backing the India–EU FTA, Provost made it clear that it does not alter Renault’s core approach to the market. “It’s not core in our strategy… what is core is to localise deeply and do India for India,” he said.

Any upside from the agreement, he suggested, would be limited and tactical. “Maybe we could think about a few CBUs to enhance our brand, but it will be just an opportunity,” he added.

For Renault, the takeaway is straightforward. India is not being positioned as an export base for Europe, but as a competitive hub feeding technology, components and vehicles into other global markets where cost and speed matter more.

Greater India Autonomy, New Platforms at the Core of Renault's Revival Plan

Ketan Thakkar — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:40:46

In a decisive shift in strategy, Renault Group is placing India at the centre of its next phase of growth by handing greater autonomy and control to its local management, a move it believes is critical to staging a strong comeback in one of its most important markets.

Renault’s global leadership has acknowledged that earlier structures, driven by global processes, often limited the speed and flexibility needed in India. “During the past years, our organisation was too much scheduled… India-for-India for me means delegation to deliver the product at the speed of India, for Indian people, with accountability,” said François Provost, underlining the shift to a single, integrated leadership model with full local control across the value chain.

A key element of the strategy is a broad-based powertrain roadmap, with Renault planning to offer petrol, CNG, hybrid and electric options across its line-up. The company is aligning its product development to India’s multi-energy reality, where affordability, regulation and usage patterns demand a range of technologies rather than a single transition path.

The 'India-for-India' approach underpins Renault’s broader reset, which includes the rollout of two new platforms tailored for the market. At the entry level, the Renault Group Entry Platform (RGEP) will replace the ageing small-car architecture, supporting a new generation of compact products in the sub-₹10 lakh segment with improved digital capability and flexibility for multiple body styles.

For higher segments, Renault will leverage its CMF-B–based architecture to bring back a renewed SUV line-up, including the next-generation Renault Duster and a three-row derivative aimed at expanding its presence in the mid-size and upper segments. “When Renault localised its strong assets—SUVs, design, modern powertrains, European standards—we succeeded in India. When we do this, we can succeed again,” Provost said, pointing to the company’s earlier playbook as a guide for the future.

In parallel, Renault is sharpening its focus on exports from India, positioning its Chennai operations as a hub for both vehicles and components. The move is aimed at leveraging India’s cost competitiveness and engineering capabilities to serve global markets, while also improving scale and utilisation at its manufacturing base.
While Renault’s product pipeline will address gaps that emerged in recent years, the company’s leadership is clear that the core of its turnaround lies in organisational change. “They are one team, completely focused, with full delegation… this is the main change compared with before,”

"India is Charting its Own Auto Path, We're Happy to Support”: Bosch Chairman

Shahkar Abidi — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:01:40

Global component major Bosch Ltd claims that as Indian auto and other companies prefer to forge their own paths and trajectories, they want to become part of this growth journey.

At its annual media briefing on Thursday, Bosch’s top leadership said India remains a large and steadily growing market, and one of the few globally to have sustained growth last year, with expectations of continued expansion.

Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, remarked that the Indian market wants to forge its own path with local strategies and trajectories. It is visible in the numbers of sales done by the local OEMs. "We are happy to help them," he noted.

The remarks comes on the background of Bosch Limited and Tata AutoComp Systems Limited had in mid-March announcing plans to establish a 50:50 joint venture in India to manufacture and supply e-axles and electric traction motors, strengthening their presence in the country’s growing e-mobility market. Operations are expected to commence by mid-2026, subject to regulatory clearances. The JV will focus on engineering, manufacturing, sales and after-sales services of eAxle systems and electric motors, with scope to expand into other product segments as decided by its board. The companies said the JV is expected to support localisation, scale up EV component manufacturing, and strengthen India’s e-mobility supply chain.

Bosch Limited reported revenue of Rs 18,087 crore in FY2024-25, while Tata AutoComp Systems reported Rs3,959 crore in the same period, Autocar Professional previously reported.

Scania Expands Indian Operations With New Bengaluru Office

Dev Vadchhedia — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:36:19

Scania Commercial Vehicles India inaugurated its new corporate office in Bengaluru on April 16, 2026. The opening ceremony was attended by Jan Thesleff, the Ambassador of Sweden to India, alongside senior Scania leadership, customers, dealer partners, finance partners, and representatives from Business Sweden.

The new facility in Bengaluru is intended to serve as a hub for key business functions, aimed at facilitating closer coordination across teams and improving engagement with stakeholders. The location will also focus on attracting a skilled professional talent pool for the company's operations. Concurrently, Scania confirmed that its Regional Product Centre located in Narasapura continues to be fully operational, providing end-to-end manufacturing and tailored solutions.

In conjunction with the new office opening, Scania announced a White label financing program established in partnership with Axis Bank. The initiative is designed to offer accessible and competitive financing options for customers purchasing Scania trucks in the Indian market. According to Munish Sharda, Executive Director of Axis Bank, the collaboration combines product capability with structured financing to support fleet operators.

Martin Stahlberg, Senior Vice President for Asia and Oceania at Scania CV AB, noted that India remains a central market for the company's long-term global growth strategy. Silvio Munhoz, Managing Director of Scania Commercial Vehicles India, stated the new office and the Axis Bank partnership will enable the company to operate with greater proximity to its customer base and provide structured solutions for fleet expansion.

Samvardhana Motherson Shuts France-Based Dormant GIE Groupe AD Unit

Shahkar Abidi — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:34:49

GIE Groupe AD (GIE), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Samvardhana Motherson International Limited, has discontinued its operations, the component major said in a regulatory filing on Thursday.

GIE was acquired by Samvardhana Motherson International on May 13, 2024, as part of the acquisition of ADI Group. GIE was not carrying out any business or operation, so the shareholders of GIE approved its dissolution. Accordingly, the Commercial Register approved the dissolution of GIE on April 14, 2026, effective from November 1, 2017.

GIE's other income during FY 2024-25 was €122,917 and its net worth was ‘Nil’. Further, the said other income and net worth of GIE contributed negligibly to the consolidated revenue and consolidated net worth of the Company as of the end of FY 2024-25, the company noted in the filing.

Samvardhana Motherson International Limited is involved in Design, Engineering, Manufacturing, Assembly and Logistics (D.E.M.A.L.) for the automotive and other sectors. Established in 1986, the company boasts a diverse global customer base that includes nearly all leading automobile manufacturers worldwide. The company has over 425 facilities across 47 countries on five continents.

The company has diversified to non-automotive businesses, including technology and industrial solutions, health & medical, aerospace and logistics. SAMIL is currently the largest auto ancillary in India and is ranked among the top 15 automotive suppliers worldwide, the company added.