Tata Motors’ Sanand facility, one of the newest constructions of the manufacturer, has set a significant milestone by producing its 1 millionth car. The facility, which was built in 2010, spans over 1,100 acres in Gujarat. Besides being a significant hub for Tata Motors, the plant is also a significant job provider directly and indirectly, employing over 6,000 individuals.
The establishment includes key sectors such as the press line, assembly line, weld shop, paint shop, and powertrain shop. These units, working in perfect synergy, assures the streamlined and efficient production of vehicles. This fine-tuned coordination facilitates the flexible production and precision needed to meet market demands. The Sanand facility’s successful transformation from a single model to a multi-model manufacturing unit is a powerful statement on the adaptability and commitment of contemporary manufacturing industries in meeting market demands. The variety of models such as Tiago, Tigor, and XPRES-T EV are assembled at this facility.
With emphases on lean management systems and flexible assembly lines, Tata Motors aligns their Sanand facility with contemporary manufacturing processes. The facility excellently manages and utilises its assets, promoting operational efficiency and assured quality control.The Sanand plant focuses on utilising technological advancements to enhance its production capabilities and the reliability of its products. The innovative approach adopted by the plant aids in the continuous improvement and ensures that the vehicles completely meet the strict quality standards.
Producing 1 million vehicles is a testament to the plant's long-term success in manufacturing, which relies heavily on customer satisfaction, quality, environmental sustainability, and adaptation to market dynamics through innovation. Shailesh Chandra, the Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, stated, “We take immense pride in rolling out the 1 millionth car from our Sanand plant." He further noted that the facility had played a vital role in supporting the company's growth story by efficiently responding to market needs. To further their efforts in increasing considerations for their products, Chandra added, "Our efforts have led to higher consideration for our products and this milestone certainly reiterates the popularity of our products among consumers. We are confident to carry forward our momentum in providing safer, smarter, and greener mobility solutions." Source
Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Teased Ahead of July Reveal at Goodwood
Bengaluru, June 13, 2025 – Hyundai has officially teased the highly anticipated Ioniq 6 N, the high-performance electric variant of its streamlined sedan. The car’s debut is confirmed for the Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 10–13, 2025).
What’s New with the Ioniq 6 N?
Aggressive aero upgrades: Bold wider fenders, two-tier rear spoilers (ducktail plus massive wing), sporty front bumper and slim pixel-style DRLs
Performance wheels & brakes: Lightweight alloy rims paired with sticky rubber and upgraded brakes reminiscent of the Ioniq 5 N
Racing-inspired stance: Lower ride height, wider track, and diffuser-based styling cues inspired by RN22e prototype
Interior sport upgrades: Expect N-specific three-spoke steering, bucket seats, dedicated drive modes and performance badging
Likely Performance & Specs
Powertrain DNA: Hands-free borrowing of the 650 hp dual-motor AWD setup from the Ioniq 5 N is forecast
Performance projections: Expect 0–100 km/h in the low 3-second range, same as Ioniq 5 N (~3.4 s)
Battery & Range: Possibly mates an ~84 kWh battery and dual motors; previous spec hints suggest ~448 km WLTP
Why It Matters
EV Sports Sedan icon: Cementing Hyundai’s N division as a true EV performance powerhouse.
Track & daily use: Built on pillars of “Racetrack Capability”, “Everyday Sports Car” & “Corner Rascal”
Segment disruptor: Will push boundaries in high-end EVs, rivaling performance models like Tesla Model 3 Performance and BMW i4 M50
Bengaluru, June 13 2025 – Mahindra has now made its Scorpio‑N automatic accessible to more buyers by introducing the Z4 trim with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Priced at ₹17.39 lakh (petrol) and ₹17.86 lakh (diesel, ex-showroom), this update brings the starting point for automatic transmissions down by up to ₹1.67 lakh compared to previous offerings .
Powertrain & Transmission Options
Engine choices:
2.0 L mStallion turbo‑petrol: 203 hp, torque of 370 Nm (MT) / 380 Nm (AT)
2.2 L mHawk diesel: Standard tune at 132 hp/300 Nm; higher tune (Z4 E variant) delivers 175 hp/ 370 Nm (MT) with optional 4WD
Automatic gearbox: 6-speed torque-converter AT; rear-wheel drive standard, with optional 4WD in the Z4 (E) diesel
Features & Configuration
Seating: Strictly offered as a 7-seater across both petrol and diesel Z4 AT trims
Equipment list includes:
8″ infotainment with wired Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
Steering‑mounted audio controls, second‑row AC vents
Halogen headlights, LED turn indicators, 17″ steel wheels with covers
Fabric upholstery, rear spoiler, power windows
Safety kit: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control, Hill‑Hold & Descent Control, ISOFIX anchors, and 3‑point seatbelts
Value & Market Impact
Lower entry: The Z4 AT trims are ₹1.05 lakh cheaper than the previous cheapest automatic Z6 diesel and ₹1.67 lakh less than the Z8 Select petrol AT
Endurance of 4WD: The introduction of optional 4WD in the Z4 (E) diesel maintains Mahindra Scorpio‑N’s off‑road capability at a competitive price point.
Strategic push: Broadens appeal to families and SUV buyers seeking convenience and adventure in an affordable automatic package.
**Mercedes‑AMG G 63 Collector’s Edition Rolls Out in India at ₹4.30 Crore **
Bengaluru, June 12, 2025 – Mercedes‑Benz has officially introduced the ultra-exclusive AMG G 63 Collector’s Edition in India, priced at ₹4.30 crore (ex-showroom). Limited to just 30 units, this “hyper-personalized” G‑Wagon celebrates Indian heritage with bespoke design and luxe upgrades .
India‑Inspired Design & Personalization
Exclusive finishes: Offered in two Manufaktur shades—Mid Green Magno (monsoon greenery) and Red Magno (iron‑rich soil)—highlighted with 22″ gold-finished AMG alloys and a ‘One of Thirty’ plaque on the spare wheel
Custom interior: Cabin features Catalana Beige/Black Nappa leather, open-pore walnut wood trim, and uniquely, a client’s name engraved on the dashboard grab-handle
Special insignia: Distinct Collector’s Edition branding on body and trim to mark exclusivity
Same V8 Power, Bold Performance
Engine unchanged: Retains AMG’s iconic 4.0 L twin‑turbo V8 with 585 hp, 850 Nm, plus a 22 hp boost from 48‑volt mild-hybrid assist
Transmission & drive: Mated to a 9‑speed DCT powering all-wheel-drive (4MATIC); 0–100 km/h in 4.4 sec .
Availability & Special Access
Bookings open now, with deliveries slated for Q4 2025
Reserved for top-end clients, reflecting the G-Class’s high rate of Manufaktur customisation in India
Pricing premium: Roughly ₹55–66 lakh above the standard G 63, depending on source
Why It Matters
Hyper-personalised luxury: Showcases Mercedes’ India-specific design effort and growing focus on ultra-lux offerings.
Collector appeal: Limited numbers, bespoke details, and performance pedigree make it a future collector’s item.
Flagship finesse: Reaffirms the G-Class’s dominance among India’s high-end SUV market.
Volkswagen Polo Edition 50 Celebrates 50 Years with Limited-Edition Trim
Bengaluru, June 12, 2025 – Volkswagen marks the iconic Polo’s 50th anniversary with the launch of the limited-run Polo Edition 50, built on the second-from-base Style trim and packed with exclusive cosmetic and feature upgrades, priced at €28,200 (~₹27.9 lakh) in Germany .
What’s New on the Edition 50?
Distinctive styling: Features exclusive Crystal Blue metallic paint, unique ‘50’ badges on the B-pillar, steering wheel, and door sills, standard 16" Coventry alloys, and optional 17" Torosa wheels, plus tinted rear windows
Interior upgrades: Leather-wrapped steering with ‘50’ emblem, sports seats, ambient lighting, black headliner, chrome pedals, heated front seats, and an optional panoramic sunroof with the Plus package
Tech & comfort: Comes equipped with two-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, rear-camera, and selectable drive modes
Powertrain & Performance
The Polo Edition 50 is powered by the proven 1.0 L TSI turbo-petrol engine, with two tune options:
95 hp / 175 Nm with a 5-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
116 hp / 200 Nm output available with the DCT gearbox
What This Means
Brand heritage: A fitting celebration of five decades of the Polo sedan’s global legacy
Exclusive appeal: Combines visual exclusivity with enhanced features at a premium over standard Style trim
Market teaser: Though launched in Europe, the Edition 50 hints at potential future special editions if Volkswagen considers a re-entry into markets like India.
QJ Motor Unveils SRT 300 DX Adventure Bike to Rival Honda CRF300 Rally
Bengaluru, June 12, 2025 – Chinese bike-maker QJ Motor has revealed the SRT 300 DX, a new adventure motorcycle aimed squarely at the popular Honda CRF300 Rally. Primed for European and Southeast Asian markets, its arrival in India remains unconfirmed .
Engine & Performance
292.3 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine outputting 28.8 hp @ 8,000 rpm and 24.5 Nm torque @ 7,000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and wet multi-plate clutch
Performance rivals the CRF300 Rally, which delivers around 27.3 hp and similar torque
Riding Hardware & Dynamics
Built on a steel frame with 21″ front and 18″ rear spoked wheels wrapped in knobby tires for true off-road capability
Offers USD forks up front, a rear monoshock, 275 mm ground clearance (10 mm more than Kawasaki KLX 230), and a seat height of 890 mm—tall but purposeful
**Weighs around **157 kg, aiding nimble trail handling
Market Positioning & Price
Launching soon in Europe and Southeast Asia for approx. USD 4,350 (~₹3.7 lakh)
Direct competition includes Honda CRF300 Rally, Kawasaki KLX 230, with styling nods to Africa Twin and Enduro Veloce
No official plans announced for Indian launch yet
Why It Matters
Affordable adventure: Brings credible adventure specs into the sub‑₹4 lakh range.
Trail-ready build: High ground clearance, knobby tires, long travel suspension are hardcore-ready.
Honda rival: Offers similar or slightly better power than CRF300 Rally at a lower price point.
Global strategy: Marks QJ’s growing ambition with performance-oriented adventure bikes for international markets.
**Maruti Dzire Becomes India’s First Sedan to Bag 5-Star Bharat NCAP Safety Rating **
Bengaluru, June 12, 2025 – Maruti Suzuki's updated Dzire compact sedan has emerged as the first-ever sedan in India to earn a coveted 5-star safety rating under the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) .
Landmark Achievement in Crash Safety
It scored 29.46/32 in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and 41.57/49 in Child Occupant Protection (COP) tests
This 5-star rating is across all Dzire trims—even the base LXI variant—to ensure uniform safety standards
Notably, the Dzire had already earned a 5-star rating from Global NCAP last year
Advanced Safety Features Across the Board
Standard across all variants:
**Six airbags **(front, side, curtain)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with ABS+EBD and Hill Hold Assist
360° camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and seat-belt reminders for all occupants
Speed alert, tyre-pressure monitoring, and automatic door locking systems
These enhancements are part of Maruti’s broader initiative to add six airbags and ESP+ across its entire lineup by FY 2025–26
What This Means for the Compact Sedan Market
Safety leadership: The Dzire sets a new benchmark for mainstream Indian cars, challenging the likes of Hyundai Aura, Tata Tigor, and Honda Amaze
Regulatory & market influence: Maruti's push toward standardizing six airbags and ESC raises the bar across entry-level to premium segments
Government endorsement: Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari praised the milestone, emphasizing its alignment with global safety protocols
TVS & Norton to Bring New 450 cc Motorcycles to India — Based on BMW Platform
Bengaluru, June 12, 2025 – TVS Motor Company has confirmed that it will locally manufacture a family of 450 cc motorcycles in Hosur, India, including its own Apache 450 cc, plus models for Norton and BMW—all powered by BMW’s upcoming 450 cc twin‑cylinder platform .
What You Need to Know
Shared BMW engine: All bikes will use BMW’s 450 cc parallel-twin powertrain, first seen in the concept F 450 GS, showcased at EICMA and now nearing production
Made in India: TVS’s Hosur factory will handle manufacturing for TVS’s Apache 450 cc, BMW’s F 450 GS, and the Norton-branded 450 cc models
Product strategy: TVS MD Sudarshan Venu confirms platform sharing across brands. Alongside these, the company plans an Apache RTX 300 adventure bike and a possible Apache RTR 450 naked in future line-up
Norton revival: Norton-branded 450 cc bikes are expected in India by end-2025, sold via CBU route while assessing local demand
Market positioning: The Apache 450 cc will likely aim at rivals like KTM Duke 390, Honda CB 500 series; Norton’s retro roadsters will target premium enthusiasts, while BMW’s F 450 GS addresses adventure touring buyers .
Why This Matters
Royal Enfield CEO Rides Teased Himalayan 750 & Himalayan EV in Ladakh
Royal Enfield has officially dropped powerful teasers as CEO B. Govindarajan and design chief Mark Wells were seen testing two future-ready bikes—the Himalayan 750 and the Himalayan EV (HIM‑E)—in high-altitude Ladakh terrain
Himalayan 750: Stepping into Middleweight Adventure
Engine & Power: Likely powered by a new 750 cc parallel‑twin, delivering an estimated 50–55 hp and 60 Nm torque, based on spy shots of the engine and RE’s upcoming platform
Chassis & Setup: Adopts a road‑biased adventure build: trellis frame, USD front forks, monoshock, and 19"/17" spoke wheels tuned for touring rather than hardcore off-road
Braking & Weight: Features a dual‑disc front brake setup, essential for its enhanced performance profile . Expected heft: approx. 220 kg — heavier than the Himalayan 450.
Ride Modes & Tech: Spy reveals hint at ride-by-wire throttle, multiple ride modes, and possibly cruise control—marking it a technologically leap ahead
Launch Plans: Production-ready units tested in mid‑2025. Likely launch window: late 2026 or early 2027, with an ex-showroom price range of ₹3.9–4.3 lakh
Himalayan EV (HIM-E): RE’s First Electric ADV
Prototyping Stage: Seen in camouflaged test form, but styling clearly reflects RE’s classic Himalayan DNA—with large single-seat, tall windshield, knobby tyres, and full LED lighting, keeping a rugged aesthetic
Suspension & Frame: Could include high-spec Öhlins suspension (golden USD forks, adjustable mono) and a lightweight aluminium frame using the battery/motor as stressed structural elements
Features & Launch Speculation: Likely to sport a TFT display, Bluetooth, ride modes, and radially-mounted calipers. The bike looks production-ready and testing in real-world conditions suggests possible 2026 launch, priced at a premium over the ICE variant
What It Means for Adventure Riders
Midweight Advantage: Himalayan 750 sits above the 450, competing with Kawasaki Versys 650 and KTM 790/890 ADVs, offering more highway muscle.
Tech Boost: Both models bring electronics-forward riding—offering ride modes, TFT, connectivity, and better suspension.
Electrification Leap: Himalayan EV signifies Royal Enfield’s bold push into electric adventure touring, tapping into global EV trends and eco-conscious riders.
Brand Evolution: With CEO-level testing at Khardung La, RE emphasizes quality validation and global appeal from the world’s highest motorable road
