Presenting an Upgrade of Skoda's Latest Models to Showcase a 13-inch Infotainment System and Innovative Steering Wheel-Mounted Gear Selector.
Embracing the Next Generation: Skoda Readies Global Debut for Revamped Kodiaq and Superb Models, Unveiling Production-Ready Interiors. Here's a Deep Dive into the Transformations. The upcoming 2024 iterations of Skoda's Kodiaq and Superb models are set to make their global entrance, showcasing refreshed designs inside and out.
The automaker has now offered a sneak peek into the finalized interior layouts of its flagship SUV and sedan, each exuding a sense of sophistication. Although the new Skoda Kodiaq and Superb adopt a harmonious black and tan color scheme within the cabin, their character shines through distinct dashboard configurations and center consoles. The sedan boasts an elegant arrangement, featuring slender central AC vents and an intricately slatted design on the passenger side. In contrast, the SUV takes on a sturdier and more upright dashboard design, emphasizing its robust appeal.
Taking Center Stage in both models is the impressive 13-inch floating touchscreen, positioned prominently atop the dashboard. Upholstery-wise, both new models boast a 100 percent polyester composition. A notable evolution lies in the center console of these models, where the automatic transmission's drive selector has been relocated from its traditional position, finding its new home behind the steering wheel on the steering column. This strategic shift not only enhances ergonomics but also liberates additional storage space.
Adding to their appeal, both models will notably include a welcome provision of tactile knobs and buttons. Among these, the two outer rotary dials serve functions such as regulating AC temperature, seat heating, and ventilation, offering a convenient and intuitive experience. In the heart of this arrangement, the central dial assumes a versatile role, adaptable for controlling various features. From fan speed adjustment and air direction control to smart air conditioning management, drive mode selection, map zooming, and infotainment volume modulation, this central dial offers a customizable interface tailored to the driver's preferences
Advanced Offerings Aboard the New Generation Skoda Vehicles
Incorporating modern advancements, the forthcoming Skoda models will feature a 10-inch digital driver's display, a heads-up display, wireless phone charging capabilities, powered front seats, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. An added touch of luxury awaits as the driver's seats in both vehicles come equipped with a pneumatic massage function.
The safety of passengers remains a top priority, underscored by the inclusion of multiple airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and an array of cutting-edge advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to provide a comprehensive safety net.
Under the Hood: Propulsion for the Duo
The upcoming Kodiaq and Superb models will maintain a diverse array of engine-gearbox combinations in their international configurations. Here's a recap of the confirmed options:
The global-spec Superb is set to adopt the same assortment of powertrains as the Kodiaq. Notably, the sedan's 2-liter turbo-petrol engine will also be available in a higher state of tune, boasting 265PS and accompanied by an all-wheel drivetrain (AWD).
For the plug-in hybrid iterations of these models, a robust 25.7kWh battery pack takes center stage. This battery capacity permits an electric-only range of up to 100km, while also facilitating efficient DC fast charging capabilities of up to 50kW.
However, in light of Skoda India's decision to discontinue diesel powertrains, the Indian variants of the new-generation Kodiaq and Superb are expected to exclusively offer turbo-petrol options, with the plug-in hybrid variants not being part of the Indian lineup.
Arrival in India and Anticipated Pricing
Anticipated to make their entry to the Indian market as imports, the flagship SUV-sedan pair from Skoda is projected to grace our shores in the coming year. With expectations set, both the Kodiaq and Superb are poised to commence their pricing journey at slightly above the Rs 40 lakh mark (ex-showroom).
competition
In India, the Skoda Kodiaq is primed to rekindle its competition with contenders like the Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Gloster, offering consumers a versatile choice in the premium SUV segment. Meanwhile, the sedan variant of the Superb is positioned as an appealing alternative to the Toyota Camry, bringing an additional layer of choice to discerning sedan enthusiasts."
Callum Reinvents the Classic: 110 hp Wood & Pickett Mini
Callum Design, led by legendary British designer Ian Callum CBE, has teamed up with Wood & Pickett to breathe new life into the final-gen Mk5 Mini, delivering a meticulously crafted restomod that marries vintage charm with performance and modernity
Exterior & Interior – Classic with a Modern Twist
Revamped bodywork retains the iconic proportions of the Mk5 Mini (last built 1997–2001), enhanced with bespoke valances, side skirts, and a redesigned rear end that echo Wood & Pickett’s coachbuilding pedigree
Upgraded LED lighting, Callum-designed 13‑inch alloy wheels, road-tuned suspension, and uprated disc brakes deliver a sophisticated yet purposeful aesthetic
Inside, expect a piano-switch dashboard, touchscreen infotainment, and luxurious Bridge of Weir leather trim—quality that “British Leyland could only dream about”
Under the Bonnet – Genuine Go-Kart Feel
Powertrain: Stage 3 1.3‑litre A‑Series motor, rebuilt to produce 110 hp, nearly doubling standard output
Mated to a re-engineered gearbox with twin-exit exhaust, the car promises lively performance reminiscent of early hot-hatch legends
Handling is enhanced via bespoke suspension and quality brakes, completing the transformation into a light-footed go-kart classic
Limited Editions & Customisation
Each restomod is hand-built in the UK, with customers invited to collaborate from day one—ensuring no two builds are identical
Starting price is around £75,000 (~₹80 lakh), reflecting its exclusivity as a David Gandy-commissioned first example, due to debut at the Heveningham Concours this weekend
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Wood & Pickett Mini by Callum reinvigorates classic Mini DNA with bespoke design, performance upgrades, and modern luxury—all while preserving its authentic character. This restomod isn’t just a tribute; it’s a statement in selectors and craftsmanship, appealing to design purists and hot‑Mini enthusiasts alike.
MG Teases Two New EVs at 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed
MG Motor is set to make a strong statement at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed (10–13 July) by showcasing two new production EVs alongside concept models—Cyberster Black, Cyber X, and a fresh EX4 EV livery
What We Know So Far
IM6: The Torchbearer
Teasers hint that one of the mystery models could be the IM Motors IM6, rebadged under the MG brand for international markets
Dimensions: ~4.9 m long, 1.99 m wide, 1.67 m tall, 2.95 m wheelbase
Design cues: Coupé-SUV silhouette, full‑width LED rear lighting, petal‑pattern alloys, glass roof
IM6 Performance on the Hillclimb
MG plans to demonstrate its “phenomenal EV acceleration” during the hill climb event—using the Performance variant of IM6.
Powertrain: dual‑motor (200 kW front + 372 kW rear)
Combined output: 778 PS, 802 Nm
0–100 km/h in 3.4 seconds — a serious hill‑climb contender
Concept Stars & Performance EVs
Cyberster Black: A new dark‑themed version of MG’s electric roadster with blacked-out styling and matching interiors
Cyber X Concept: Rugged, boxy compact SUV with bold pop-up headlights—ideal for urban adventures
EX4 EV Livery: The electric rally-inspired EX4 returns with a fresh Metro 6R4-inspired design for hill‑climb runs
MGS5 EV, MG4 XPower & HS SUV will also feature at MG’s main stand and experience area
Reveal time: The new EVs will debut at 11 AM on 10 July, the first day of the event
Why This Matters for EV & MG Fans
MG’s bet on global EV expansion: The IM6 could rival the Tesla Model Y segment; its presence signals MG’s international ambitions
Performance meets spectacle: The hillclimb run aims to re-establish MG as a performance EV contender
Broad showcase strategy: MG’s combination of production reveals and concept displays shows a dual focus on immediate sales and future innovation
Final Take
At Goodwood ’25, MG is primed to refresh its image with powerful new EVs, head-turning concept models, and high-visibility hill‑climb action. The event could mark a turning point as MG prepares to go global with advanced electric SUVs.
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Features new chassis, electronics, and powertrain, while retaining key elements like battery and software from Ather’s existing 450/Rizta models
Possible inclusion of LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries to further reduce costs
Ecosystem Enhancements
Introduction of next-gen Grid fast chargers promising faster, more reliable charging versus current rate (1.5 km/min)
Launch of** Ather Stack 7.0,** featuring upgraded UI, improved OTA updates, voice interaction, ride analytics, and better device connectivity
Strategic Move: Democratizing EV Access
The EL platform marks Ather’s push into the mass-market EV space, extending its lineup beyond premium scooters like the 450 series and Rizta to attract budget-conscious buyers
Set against continued competition from Ola, Hero, TVS, and others, this strategy positions Ather to capture new demographics—especially in smaller towns.
Also likely aligns with launch of Zenith platform for e‑motorcycles, signaling broader product expansion
What’s Next
Ather Community Day 2025, planned for August—exact date TBD
Reveal of EL platform, concept models, chargers, and Stack 7.0
Expected timeline for EL-based scooter launch: early 2026, with potential sub‑₹1 lakh pricing
Final Take
Ather’s EL platform debut could reshape India’s electric two-wheeler market by offering trusted build quality and smart features at mass-market pricing. Coupled with charging and software upgrades, this initiative reinforces Ather’s ambition to lead both premium and budget EV segments.
Mercedes‑AMG GT XX Concept Debuts as Brand’s First True Electric AMG Super‑Sedan
Mercedes‑AMG has lifted the curtain on the GT XX concept, its first all-electric flagship coupe/sedan that previews the AMG.EA platform. Under its sleek, four-door coupe body lies a staggering 1,340 hp tri‑motor EV, poised to challenge the fastest electric performance cars on the planet
Powertrain & Performance
Hybrid architecture redefined by three axial-flux electric motors sourced from Yasa, delivering unparalleled power density and efficiency
Peak output over 1,340 hp, targeting 220 mph (≈360 km/h) top speed — a direct rival to hyper-performance EVs .
Battery features high-performance oil cooling and next-gen rapid-charging, leveraging F1-sourced tech to manage sustained power delivery
Design & Aerodynamics
Active aero wheels adjust brake cooling vs drag reduction dynamically
Signature AMG vertical-bar grille, six round taillights and illuminated sill inserts accentuate the dramatic appearance
Low-slung, nearly coupe-style stance with a possible dual-use production variant featuring a hatchback and higher roofline
Drag coefficient reported at 0.198, nearly the lowest among production EVs
Interior & Production Prospects
Concept cabin blends race-inspired seats with a digital-rich environment reminiscent of virtual concept cars .
Carrying a VIN suggests more than just design theatrics; AMG confirms that core tech and drivetrain are production-ready, slated to debut in 2025 on AMG.EA
Final Take
The Mercedes‑AMG GT XX concept not only packs radical performance with over 1,300 hp and record-breaking aerodynamics but also preview's AMG’s next-gen EV platform. With production-ready underpinnings, it stands as a bold statement: AMG is ready to dominate the high-performance electric era.
Honda Activa e: Gets New Lite BaaS Plan—Budget Battery Subscription at ₹678 / Month
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has introduced a new Lite plan for the Activa e: electric scooter, priced at ₹678 per month (+GST), offering 20 kWh of energy, ideal for riders covering under 25 km daily
What the Lite Plan Includes
Monthly battery usage: 20 kWh (~600 km)
Affordable pricing: ₹678/month, a big drop from ₹1,999 (Basic) and ₹3,999 (Advanced) plans
Excess usage charged at ₹70/kWh (+GST) once limit exceeded
Why This Matters
Great for low‑usage commuters—offers predictable costs with manageable monthly bills
Basic BaaS plans were costlier, increasing running costs close to those of ICE scooters; Lite eases that pressure for casual riders
Energy billing is cumulative—daily highs can be offset by lower usage days
Activa e: – Key Details at a Glance
Ex-showroom prices:
Standard: ₹1.17 L
RoadSync Duo (TFT display): ₹1.52 L
Battery packs: Twin 1.5 kWh, swappable
Claimed IDC range: 102 km per charge
Availability: Initially in Bengaluru, followed by Mumbai and Delhi once swap stations roll out
Charging network: Over 80 swapping points already in Bengaluru; expansion planned to 500 stations by March 2026
Plan Comparison Table
Final Take
The Lite BaaS plan significantly lowers the ownership cost for occasional riders, making the Activa e: more accessible and keeping it competitive with ICE scooters. However, its success hinges on faster roll-out of swap infrastructure in key cities. For light users, this is a welcome move toward affordable EV commuting.
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Tata Harrier EV Triumphs with 5-Star Bharat NCAP Safety Rating
Tata Motors’ flagship Harrier EV has achieved an impressive 5-star rating in the latest Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) crash tests, making it a top-tier contender in EV safety
Adult & Child Safety Results
Adult Occupant Protection: A perfect 32 out of 32, making Harrier EV only the second SUV to earn full points
Scored 16/16 in both frontal offset and side barrier tests. Protection for chest, head, abdomen, and pelvis rated “good”.
Child Occupant Protection: 45 out of 49, matching its rival Mahindra XEV 9e
Full marks (24/24) in dynamic tests and CRS fitment (12/12), with 9/13 in general safety assessment.
Why It Matters
The tests were conducted on the top‑end Empowered 75 kWh RWD and AWD variants, but all Harrier EV variants share the same structural safety, airbag count, and seatbelt systems, making the rating universally applicable
Standard Safety Tech
All variants are equipped with:
Six airbags (seven on Fearless and Empowered trims)
Level‑2 ADAS, including AEB, lane‑keep assist, adaptive cruise control
ESC, ISOFIX anchor points, seatbelt reminders, pretensioners
ABS with EBD, TPMS, auto headlights, AVAS, hill‑hold, and descent control
Catch-up with Global Standards
Tata continues to elevate safety benchmarks. Following its success with the Nexon EV, the Harrier EV now sets a new standard for mid-size electric SUVs in India, offering stellar occupant protection and cutting-edge active safety — all starting from ₹21.49 lakh ex-showroom
Final Take
With its flawless safety rating and high-level features as standard across the lineup, the Tata Harrier EV redefines excellence in EV safety and value in India. This perfect Bharat NCAP score reinforces Tata’s reputation as a leader in occupant protection for electric SUVs.
VinFast Showcases VF 6 & VF 7 at Chennai Mall as Pre-Launch Strategy
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is creating buzz ahead of its India debut by displaying its upcoming electric SUVs—VF 6 and VF 7—at a busy mall in Chennai. This is part of a nationwide tour covering 11 cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Lucknow
Why Mall Exhibits Matter
Brings premium EVs to public spaces, making them accessible for first-hand inspection by potential buyers
Builds **pre-launch engagement **in the run-up to commercial availability later this year.
Supports VinFast’s ₹2 billion India investment and launch of its Thoothukudi plant expected this July
Meet the SUVs
VF 6 – B‑segment Subcompact EV
59.6 kWh battery, offering 174 hp/250 Nm in Eco mode; Plus variant boosts to 201 hp/310 Nm
Range: approximately 460–480 km WLTP
Features stylish LED DRLs, 12.9” touchscreen, HUD, Level 2 ADAS, premium interior
VF 7 – C‑segment Mid-Size EV
75.3 kWh battery with 201 hp/309 Nm (Eco) and 348 hp/499 Nm (Plus AWD)
Expected ~498 km WLTP
Bold “Asymmetric Aerospace” design, panoramic sunroof, 15.6” infotainment, driver-focused cabin
Mall Tour Locations
Launch Timeline & Market Strategy
Bookings: Set to begin in late June or early July 2025
Local production: Thoothukudi plant commissioning in July, starting CKD assembly for VF 6/VF 7; planned capacity: 50,000 units/year initially
Positioning: VF 6 expected around ₹35 lakh, VF 7 near ₹50 lakh—targeting segment rivals like BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Ioniq 5
Final Take for CarTopNews
By taking the VF 6 and VF 7 directly to malls, VinFast is smartly blending engagement and accessibility to connect with diverse Indian buyers ahead of launch. With compelling specs, cutting-edge design, and strong backing via local production, these EVs could redefine the mid‑size electric SUV landscape in India.
Tata Harrier EV Debuts in India – Prices from ₹21.49 Lakh
Tata Motors has officially launched its flagship electric SUV, the Harrier EV, in India. The rear‑wheel‑drive variants are priced between ₹21.49 Lakh and ₹27.49 Lakh (ex‑showroom). Bookings open 2nd July 2025, with all‑wheel‑drive (QWD) pricing to be announced 27th June
Battery & Powertrain Options
65 kWh RWD variants:
Adventure: ₹21.49 L
Adventure S: ₹21.99 L
Fearless+: ₹23.99 L
75 kWh RWD variants:
Fearless+: ₹24.99 L
Empowered: ₹27.49 L
Future offerings will include 75 kWh QWD variants with dual motors producing 313 hp and 504 Nm, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in 6.3 seconds
Claimed Range & Performance
65 kWh RWD: Up to 502 L boot, 235 PS power
75 kWh RWD: 627 km MIDC‑certified range; real‑world 480–505 km
Supports DC fast charging: 20–80 % in ~25 minutes via 120 kW charger
Design & Features
Retains updated Harrier styling: closed grille, split LED lamps, aero wheels, EV badging
Available in four colour options plus a Stealth Edition with matte black accents
Interiors feature a large 14.5″ QLED touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, Level‑2 ADAS (22 features), JBL–Dolby Atmos audio, 540° surround cameras, V2L and V2V tech
Warranty & Market Position
Offers lifetime battery warranty
Positioned against rivals like Mahindra XEV 9e, BYD Atto 3, and MG ZS EV, yet priced competitively at ₹21.49–27.49 L
Final Take
The Tata Harrier EV brings class-leading range, bold design, and advanced features into a compelling package at an attractive price point. It's set to redefine the electric SUV segment in India—especially once the AWD QWD variants launch.
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