On June 3, 2024, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS), widely recognized as a prominent automotive industry event, announced its indefinite cancellation. The organizers cited numerous uncertainties prevalent in the automotive industry's current market landscape due to post-pandemic ramifications as primary reasons. Additionally, dwindling interest from manufacturers and escalating competition from other top-tier events like the Paris and Munich shows contributed to the decision.
The Comite Permanent du Salon International de l'Automobile, the event's organizing body, made what it terms a "responsible choice" to scrap next year's planned motorsport show and any subsequent editions. It underlined that the challenging market conditions within Europe have diminished the viability of future shows. However, they clarified that GIMS in Qatar, first launched in Doha in 2023 during a four-year hiatus from Geneva, remains unaffected by this decision as they look forward to its next iteration in November 2025.
In the past, GIMS had been the heartthrob of the European motor events since its inception in 1905, attracting over 120 exhibitors and approximately 600,000 visitors in its peak times. However, the recent edition held in 2024 was more subdued, with just 23 manufacturers showcasing their creations. Notably absent were significant entities like Stellantis and the Volkswagen Group, partly due to some reported fiscal disagreements stemming from the abrupt dissolution of the 2020 show triggered by the COVID-19 outbreak in Europe.
The Comite's President, Alexandre de Senarclens, expressed deep regret at the decision, stating, "The decision is saddening but necessary, given the circumstances. Our teams worked tirelessly to revive the motor show in post-COVID times, but several factors have hampered our efforts." Initially, the next Geneva show was scheduled for February 17, 2025, as per an official declaration after its "successful and promising" return earlier this year.
Despite the indefinite cancellation of GIMS, budding enthusiasts still have opportunities like the Beijing motor show 2024 and automobile showcases like the new MG3 hatchback at the 2024 Geneva motor show, amongst others to look forward to.
The Geneva International Motor Show has remained a stalwart in the industry since its inception, and despite its indefinite hiatus, the automotive world continues to evolve, with other events picking up the mantle for the time being.
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
