BUSINESS
This Week in Auto | TVS chairman to step down; Jaguar I-Pace launched; no change in emission norms deadline and more
Take a look at what made headlines in the automotive space this week.
BUSINESS
Volkswagen's India reboot plans don't include a hatchback. Here's why
German giant hopes that the government will relook the definition of small cars and pave the way for a level playing field for all automakers; wants changes in the Sub 4-metre regulation that offers lower duty
BUSINESS
Here’s why Suzuki Motorcycle may have to invest in new capacity soon
With demand outstripping supply, the company’s existing plant is already being pushed beyond the limits. Suzuki’s Gurugram-based plant has an installed annual capacity of 750,000 units; however, based on its February production rate, the facility is operating at 116 percent utilisation level.
BUSINESS
Volkswagen Taigun to debut in festive season, take on Hyundai Creta
Built on a localised version of the MQBA0 platform the Taigun is first of the many launches VW has lined up for India using the common platform
BUSINESS
Will Llistosella’s sudden refusal to lead Tata Motors hurt the company?
The last time when Tata Motors faced a leadership vacuum, it lost market share. Llistosella’s abrupt rejection of the top job comes at a time when Tata Motors is on a smooth ride, with its shares being among the top performers in the Nifty index this year.
BUSINESS
Piaggio could consider getting an electric Aprilia scooter to India
Though plans of launching the battery powered scooter in India is under investigation, its maker has kept the option open for bringing in an electric Aprilia too
BUSINESS
This week in Auto: New Tata Motors CEO won’t join Co; Scrappage incentive scheme rolled out; No toll booths anywhere in 1 year
Here's what made headlines in the automotive space this week.
BUSINESS
Auto scrappage incentive scheme: Stakeholders look at it with optimism and doubt
In the absence of any official data, the actual number of vehicles eligible for scrapping is not clear. Also, there is no clarity on whether the government will reimburse the discount of 4-6 percent on the ex-showroom price of the vehicle against a scrappage certificate.
BUSINESS
In Pics: Skoda Kushaq launch, engine option, details, booking, delivery
Though pricing of the Skoda Kushaq will be revealed later the SUV is expected to compete against a limited line-up comprising Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Renault Duster and the Nissan Kicks.
BUSINESS
Hike in vehicle registration renewal may not lead to jump in new vehicle demand
The number of vehicles impacted is negligible. Government estimates indicate that there are around 3.4 million light motor vehicles that are older than 15 years and 5.1 million motor vehicles that are older than 20 years. The government’s focus could be on the old trucks and buses among these, as they are widely considered to be more 10-25 times more polluting than modern automobiles.
BUSINESS
Faulty airbag, oil leakage, engine stalling - Auto recalls hit four year high in 2020
Though India is the fourth largest automotive market in the world, the country lacks an official, government-defined and mandated vehicle recall policy, unlike some Europe nations, the US and China, which have strict laws governing vehicle recalls
BUSINESS
Explained: Why do automobile makers and their dealers regularly provide different sales numbers every month?
Automobile manufacturers and their dealers generally report a different set of sales numbers every month. There are issues with both the numbers but sales by dealers to end-users give a better picture of the actual demand and the market share of suppliers.
BUSINESS
Exclusive: Tata Motors in talks for electric mini trucks; also developing hydrogen tech, says Girish Wagh, Head of Commercial Vehicles
Tata Motors is in talks with potential clients for development of electric vehicles for commercial applications such as goods delivery, Girish Wagh told Moneycontrol in a wide-ranging interview
BUSINESS
This week in Auto: Tata Nexon EV gets HC relief; Auto sales grow 205 in Feb; Misplaced auto fuel strategies?
Here is a complete look at what made headlines in the auto space during the week
BUSINESS
Ethanol blending to E20: Automakers fear additional cost, fall in mileage in existing cars
Auto companies are calling for two separate tanks at petrol stations because existing vehicles will be running for at least another 10 years and should ideally continue to run on petrol with E10 — 10% ethanol. E20 fuel in an E10 vehicle, they say, could erode parts, which could prove to be a safety issue as the ethanol could lead to corrosion in the fuel lines of vehicles
BUSINESS
February car sales | Check out who gained and who lost market share
Tata Motors was the biggest gainer of market share in February while Maruti Suzuki became the biggest loser
BUSINESS
Women’s day 2021 | Auto companies give the day a miss
Only Hero MotoCorp has rolled out offers for Women’s Day. Estimates indicate women buyers account for 25-30 percent of scooter sales. With sales of passenger vehicles roaring, and women accounting for only 10 percent of those sales, other companies have not been as enthusiastic in their promotions
BUSINESS
This week in Auto: Delhi Govt withdraws subsidy; No more visits to RTO; India woos Elon Musk for Tesla factory and more
Here is what made headlines during the week
BUSINESS
It’s been 10 years without profits; time we changed that: Renault India MD
Under its five-year ‘Renaulution’ programme, the French carmakerwill scale up its brand image globally, and shift focus to larger, more premium (C and D segment) and fully electric cars that will bring in better margins. The French carmaker hopes to make all local units profitable by 2023 with India also being part of this plan.
BUSINESS
Tata Motors looks for partner to help synchronize Jaguar’s electric shift
The mismatch in product offerings and below par customer satisfaction levels has impacted the British global vehicle brand, leading to low volumes
BUSINESS
TVS Motor Company lines up capex of Rs 500 crore for FY22
The Chennai-headquartered two-wheeler maker has lined up several new products and a range of electric vehicles for launch next year as it looks to keep the good momentum for its products going
BUSINESS
India rolls red carpet to Elon Musk for a Tesla factory, but what can it offer?
Govt is promising lower costs. One analyst says since India’s EV market is very small, Tesla will have to heavily depend on exports. This is possible only if incentives are aimed to drive up exports. Gadkari’s hospitality comes at a time when Chinese regulators are questioning Tesla on many issues.
BUSINESS
No subsidy: Will Delhi government’s action hit Tata Nexon sales?
The subsidy would have brought down the on-road price of the SUV by around Rs 3 lakh. The other two electric SUVs in the country – the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona – don’t enjoy any subsidy in the state as they are priced above Rs 20 lakh.
BUSINESS
Bharat Forge identifies two new ‘growth drivers’ for the next five years
Senior executives of the company said the company plans to build components for electric vehicles and make lightweight, primary parts that go into making the shells of vehicles. To this end, Bharat Forge has even set up an engineering and solutions centre for lightweight parts in North America.









