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The race for autonomous ride-hailing has a prestigious new contender. Mercedes-Benz has announced a strategic partnership with NVIDIA to power a fleet of self-driving S-Class robotaxis, aiming to redefine urban mobility through high-performance computing. At the heart of this collaboration is the NVIDIA Drive Hyperion platform. This "brain" allows the vehicle to process massive amounts of sensor data in real-time, enabling the level of perception and decision-making required for complex city environments. While Mercedes has already made waves with its Level 3 Drive Pilot system, this move toward a robotaxi service represents a leap into Level 4 autonomy, where the vehicle handles all driving tasks within specific geographic zones. The decision to use the flagship S-Class as the platform for this pilot program underscores Mercedes' commitment to "luxury autonomous travel." Unlike the utilitarian designs of many current autonomous pods, these robotaxis will ma...

India and Canada have held high-level bilateral talks focused on strengthening cooperation in electric vehicles, battery manufacturing and clean mobility. The discussions, held in New Delhi, centred on securing supply chains for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, graphite and rare earth elements that are essential for large-scale EV production. The meeting was led by India’s Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, and Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson. Kumaraswamy underlined India’s growing importance as one of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturing hubs. He highlighted the impact of the FAME-II scheme, which has supported the adoption of over 1.6 million electric vehicles and helped establish more than 10,900 public charging stations across the country. He also pointed to an incentive programme worth nearly US$2 billion aimed at building domestic advanced chemistry cell manufacturing capacity. Hodgson described India as a key player i...

Mercedes-Benz has outlined its vision for a global Mercedes robotaxi ecosystem, centred on the next-generation S-Class and developed in partnership with leading technology and mobility players. The luxury automaker is working with Nvidia and Momenta on the technology side, while ride-hailing and mobility providers Uber and Lumo are set to operate the autonomous vehicles across multiple regions. At the heart of the strategy is the S-Class, which Mercedes-Benz says has been engineered with full system redundancies for steering, braking, computing and power supply. These fail-safe measures are critical for Level 4 autonomous operation. The brand’s new MB.OS operating system will act as the backbone of the robotaxi platform, supporting driverless shuttle services across America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Nvidia will play a key role by supplying its Drive Hyperion hardware architecture along with Drive AV Level 4 software for the ecosystem being jointly developed with Mercedes-...

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a heavily updated S-Class, calling it the most extensive update within a single generation of the luxury sedan. More than half of the car—around 2,700 components—has been newly developed or re-engineered. Production will continue at Mercedes-Benz’s Factory 56 in Sindelfingen. At the heart of the update is the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a next-generation electrical and electronic architecture that links all vehicle systems and enables comprehensive over-the-air updates. The latest MB.Drive driver assistance suite is also introduced, including MB.Drive Assist Pro, which allows point-to-point assisted driving in dense urban traffic. The feature will debut in China, followed by the US and other markets as regulations allow. ALSO READ: This Audi RS 6 Avant Is What Happens When Stock Isn’t Enough Powertrain updates span the range. The revised V8 now delivers 395 kW and 750 Nm, while six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines gain a 17 kW integ...

The Audi RS 6 Avant has always been the ultimate fast estate — supercar pace wrapped in a family-friendly body. But if you think Ingolstadt’s wildest wagon is already maxed out, M&D Exclusive Cardesign has a different opinion. The Dinslaken-based specialist has taken the RS 6 and turned the aggression dial several notches higher with a carefully curated list of premium aftermarket upgrades. The visual transformation starts with the extensive PD6RS widebody kit from Prior Design. Up front, a sharper spoiler lip and bonnet add-ons give the RS 6 an unmistakably hostile face. Fender attachments and extended side skirts beef up the side profile, while the rear is dominated by a motorsport-inspired diffuser with prominent fins. Twin spoilers — one at the roof edge and another below the rear window — complete the wide, low and track-ready look, reinforced by subtle cup-style wings on the bumpers. Sitting perfectly under the flared arches are Z-Performance ZP.Modular 2 wheels. These m...

Mazda has announced that cumulative global production and sales of the CX-5 have surpassed five million units as of the end of 2025. The popular crossover SUV becomes only the third model in Mazda’s history to achieve this milestone, after the Mazda 323 and Mazda3. Since its launch, the CX-5 has been sold in over 100 countries and has remained Mazda’s best-selling model globally since 2018. The SUV has played a central role in the brand’s international growth, appealing to buyers with its blend of design, practicality and driving dynamics. Production of the first-generation CX-5 began in 2011 at Mazda’s Ujina Plant No.2 in Japan. Over the years, manufacturing has expanded to additional facilities, including Ujina Plant No.1 and the Hofu Plant in Japan, along with plants in China. The CX-5 is also locally assembled in markets such as Malaysia and Vietnam to support regional demand. ALSO READ: Mazda CX-6e Electric SUV Debuts at Brussels Motor Show Mazda recently unveiled the th...

Bentley has unveiled the Supersports at a high-profile launch event in Dubai, marking the model’s regional premiere for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Orders for the new performance flagship will open in March, with production slated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. First customer deliveries are expected in early 2027. Positioned as one of the most dynamic Bentleys ever, the Supersports delivers 666 PS and features a rear-wheel-drive layout. The chassis and aerodynamic package have been specifically developed to prioritise agility and driver engagement, signalling a sharper, more performance-focused direction for the brand. The Supersports will be offered across key global markets, including the UK and EU, the US and Canada, Australia and New Zealand, Malaysia and Japan. In the Middle East, availability has been confirmed for markets such as the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. ALSO READ: Bentley Flying Spur Speed Sets Winter Lap Record in Sweden The Dubai unveiling took pl...

BMW India has announced that bookings for the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro will open at 12:30 pm on 30 January 2026. The luxury SUV will be locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai and can be pre-booked across BMW’s dealership network in India. The new-generation BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro is scheduled to be officially launched in the country on 16 February 2026. Visually, the updated X3 makes a stronger statement with a completely redesigned exterior and the aggressive M Sport Pro package. Highlights include a bolder design language and the illuminated Iconic Glow kidney grille, which anchors the SUV’s athletic proportions and refreshed styling. Under the bonnet, BMW has significantly upgraded the powertrain, promising notable gains in both power and torque. This translates into quicker acceleration and sharper on-road performance, reinforcing the X3’s positioning as a sporty luxury SUV. ALSO READ: BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase to Debut at Beijing Auto Show 2026 The c...

KTM has introduced the international-spec 390 Adventure R in India, priced at ₹3,77,915 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Positioned as the most off-road-focused middleweight adventure motorcycle in its segment, the new 390 Adventure R brings global-spec hardware and rally-inspired capability to Indian riders. Powering the motorcycle is a 399 cc engine, paired with a true rally wheel setup featuring a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel. Long-travel, fully adjustable WP suspension with 230 mm of travel promises serious trail capability, while the chassis and setup are tuned to handle demanding off-road conditions with confidence. Also read: KTM RC160 Launched in India: Newest in the Segment to Woo in Young Buyers Despite its dirt-first focus, the 390 Adventure R is designed to remain composed on the road. A low centre of gravity and nimble handling are supported by advanced electronics such as Cornering ABS, Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control and dedicated Offroad ABS. Riders also get...

Genesis has taken a bold step into hardcore off-roading with the global debut of the X Skorpio Concept in the Rub’ al Khali desert, UAE. Unveiled at a dramatic world premiere, the X Skorpio is the brand’s first extreme off-road concept and signals a new direction for Genesis beyond luxury road cars. The concept is powered by a V8 engine producing a staggering 1,100 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque. Built for serious desert punishment, it features a tubular chassis with a full roll cage, while extensive use of fiberglass, carbon fibre and Kevlar keeps strength high and weight in check. Genesis says the vehicle was developed using components sourced from specialists in off-road endurance racing. The X Skorpio rides on 18-inch beadlock wheels wrapped in massive 40-inch off-road tyres, paired with Brembo motorsport-grade brakes to handle the extreme performance on loose terrain. Alongside the X Skorpio, Genesis also showcased the GV60 Outdoors Concept, GV70 Outdoors Concept and the GV80 Dese...

Chartered Speed Limited and EKA Mobility have received the Letter of Confirmation of Quantity (LOCQ) for deploying 1,750 electric buses in Bengaluru under the Government of India’s PM E-Drive Scheme. The move marks a major step in strengthening sustainable public transport infrastructure in one of India’s largest metro cities. The allocation accounts for nearly 39 percent of Bengaluru’s planned induction of 4,500 electric buses under the scheme, highlighting Chartered Speed’s significant role in the city’s electrification push. Bengaluru continues to lead India’s electric public transport transition, with the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation steadily expanding its EV bus fleet in line with Karnataka’s clean mobility goals and the Centre’s de-carbonisation roadmap. The project brings together Chartered Speed’s experience in large-scale bus operations and EKA Mobility’s electric vehicle manufacturing and technology expertise. A strong focus has also been placed on safety a...

Electric vehicles hit a historic milestone in Europe in December, with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) narrowly outselling petrol cars for the first time ever. BEVs accounted for 22.6 percent of total registrations in the European Union, edging past petrol cars at 22.5 percent, according to data from industry body ACEA. ALSO READ: Volvo EX60 Electric SUV Unveiled with 810 km Range and Gemini AI The shift was driven by a sharp year-on-year rise in BEV demand. Electric car registrations jumped 51 percent to 217,900 units in December, while petrol car sales fell 19.2 percent to 216,500 units. This marked the sixth consecutive month of growth for BEVs, even as concerns over charging infrastructure and higher upfront costs remain. Despite the December breakthrough, petrol cars still led the overall market in 2025. For the full year, BEVs made up 17 percent of EU sales, compared to petrol’s 26.6 percent, with total new car registrations rising modestly by 1.8 percent to 10.8 million ...

Ashok Leyland has brought back two of its most iconic truck nameplates—TAURUS and HIPPO—reintroducing them in modern, re-engineered forms for today’s commercial transport needs. The legendary badges, long associated with strength and reliability, now return with next-generation technology, marking a major milestone for the brand’s heavy-duty portfolio. Positioned as flagships in their segments, the revived TAURUS leads Ashok Leyland’s high-horsepower tipper range, while HIPPO anchors the tractor-trailer lineup. Both trucks are built on the company’s advanced AVTR modular truck platform, enabling multiple configurations and flexible feature options to suit diverse fleet applications across India. Designed for higher productivity and better lifecycle value, the new TAURUS and HIPPO focus on improved uptime, enhanced fuel efficiency, and greater driver comfort. The upgrades are aimed at delivering stronger profitability for fleet operators while meeting the evolving demands of infrastr...

Peugeot has launched a Europe-wide roadshow for its Polygon concept, with the tour starting in Madrid on January 23. The showcase will travel across nine countries and run through early June, giving audiences a closer look at the brand’s future interior and control technologies. At the heart of the Polygon concept is Peugeot’s Hypersquare steering control paired with steer-by-wire technology. According to the automaker, this advanced steering setup is slated to make its way into production Peugeot road cars from next year, signalling a major shift in how drivers interact with future models. The roadshow will move on to key European cities including Lisbon, Paris, London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Brussels, Warsaw, and Vienna through March, followed by additional stops planned for April, May, and early June. To enhance the experience, Peugeot has created a dedicated mobile exhibition space known as the Polygon Box, which will host the concept at each location. The Polygon concept itsel...

Daimler Truck has unveiled the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck, its latest hydrogen fuel cell semi-trailer tractor, which is set to enter small-series production at the Wörth plant in Germany. Around 100 units will be deployed with selected customers from the end of 2026 as part of a real-world validation programme. The NextGenH2 Truck uses liquid hydrogen, enabling a driving range of over 1,000 km on a single fill. Two on-board tanks can store up to 85 kg of hydrogen, while refuelling takes just 10 to 15 minutes using the sLH2 refuelling standard developed jointly by Daimler Truck and Linde. Powering the truck is the cellcentric BZA150 fuel cell system, a twin-stack setup producing a combined 300 kW. The fuel cell technology has been developed by cellcentric, a joint venture between Daimler Truck and Volvo Group. Several key components are shared with the battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, including the integrated e-axle, ProCabin design, and the brand’s latest safety syste...

Porsche Cars Canada has unlocked Plug & Charge functionality on the Tesla Supercharger network for Macan Electric and 2026 model year Taycan owners, significantly expanding fast-charging access across the country. Through the Porsche Charging Service, customers can now tap into more than 27,500 Tesla Superchargers across North America, with the same feature set to arrive on the upcoming Cayenne Electric later this year. The Plug & Charge system allows seamless, encrypted authentication and automatic billing—drivers simply plug in and charge, without the need for apps, cards, or manual logins. The feature is available to active Porsche Charging Service members, making long-distance EV touring far more effortless. This move builds on Porsche’s broader charging ecosystem expansion, which includes recent software updates for the Taycan and Macan Electric, as well as complimentary NACS/CCS DC adapters for customers. In addition to Tesla’s network, the Porsche Charging Service a...

Cadillac’s design momentum continues as the Elevated Velocity concept has been crowned EyesOn Design’s Best Concept Vehicle of 2026. The win marks the second year in a row the GM luxury brand has taken home the honour, following the Opulent Velocity concept’s victory in 2025. EyesOn Design, a respected organisation made up of automotive designers and educators, recognises standout achievements in vehicle design, making the award a strong endorsement of Cadillac’s current design direction. The Elevated Velocity is envisioned as an electric high-performance crossover, featuring a dramatic 2+2 layout, striking gull-wing doors and massive 24-inch wheels. According to Cadillac, the concept embodies its “Art of Exhilaration” design philosophy, blending bold proportions with a strong emotional appeal. Design cues from flagship models such as the Celestiq and Lyriq are clearly carried forward, hinting at how Cadillac’s future electric production vehicles could evolve in terms of stance, su...

Mahindra has expanded its lifestyle SUV portfolio with the launch of the new Thar ROXX STAR EDN, a design-focused addition to the Thar ROXX range. Aimed at buyers looking for extra visual flair without compromising on capability, the STAR EDN brings a more premium and exclusive edge to Mahindra’s iconic off-roader. The Thar ROXX STAR EDN stands out with a series of bespoke cosmetic upgrades. Inside, it features all-black leatherette seats with suede accents, lending the cabin a darker, more upmarket feel. On the outside, the SUV gets a piano black front grille and matching piano black alloy wheels, giving it a bold yet sophisticated road presence. Mahindra has also introduced a new hero shade, Citrine Yellow, alongside existing colour options such as Tango Red, Everest White and Stealth Black. Mechanically, the Thar ROXX STAR EDN retains the proven powertrain choices from the standard lineup. Buyers can opt for the G20 TGDi mStallion petrol engine producing 130 kW and 380 Nm, or th...

Volkswagen India has marked a key milestone with the start of local assembly for its flagship SUV, the Tayron R-Line. Production is underway at the brand’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility, aligning with Volkswagen’s plans to launch the premium SUV in the first quarter of 2026. Positioned as the most premium SUV in Volkswagen India’s portfolio, the Tayron R-Line is designed to combine true seven-seat versatility with everyday usability and the brand’s sporty R-Line styling. The focus is on offering generous cabin space, refined road manners and a more dynamic visual appeal, aimed at buyers seeking a step up in the premium SUV segment. With local assembly now in motion, Volkswagen is preparing to strengthen its presence in the upper end of the SUV market. The Tayron R-Line’s India launch in Q1 2026 is expected to play a crucial role in the brand’s premium growth strategy, bringing a globally recognised nameplate to Indian customers with a locally assembled advantage. from India...

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles has expanded its fleet-focused XPRES lineup with the launch of new Petrol and CNG variants, complementing the existing XPRES EV. Aimed squarely at professional fleet operators, the move strengthens Tata’s multi-powertrain strategy while opening up the XPRES brand to a much wider market. The Tata XPRES Petrol is priced from ₹5.59 lakh, while the XPRES CNG starts at ₹6.59 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Bookings are now open across authorised Tata fleet dealerships nationwide. Both variants are powered by Tata’s familiar 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine, paired with a manual transmission and tuned for durability and high-uptime commercial use. The highlight, however, is the XPRES CNG’s segment-first 70-litre (water capacity) twin-cylinder CNG setup. This not only delivers an extended driving range but also preserves usable boot space—one of the biggest pain points for fleet operators. The petrol version ups the practicality further with a class-leading 419-li...

Kia India has achieved a major sales milestone with its popular subcompact SUV, the Kia Sonet, surpassing the 5 lakh unit sales mark in the Indian market. The achievement underlines the strong acceptance the Sonet has earned since its launch and reinforces Kia’s growing footprint in one of the country’s most competitive segments. Developed to meet the aspirations of modern Indian buyers, the Sonet helped redefine the subcompact SUV space with its bold design, feature-packed cabin, advanced tech and everyday usability. Manufactured locally under Kia’s ‘Make in India, for the World’ philosophy, the Sonet has appealed to a broad customer base, ranging from first-time car buyers to young urban families. The Sonet has emerged as a key volume driver for Kia India, contributing nearly 35 percent of the brand’s domestic sales. Its success is not limited to India alone, with over 1 lakh units exported to close to 70 global markets including the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America...

A new motorcycle navigation system developed by P3 digital services and Magic Lane will make its global debut at CES 2026, aiming to redefine how riders interact with navigation on two wheels. The solution is fully integrated into Sparq OS, P3’s infotainment platform built on Android Automotive OS, and has been designed specifically with motorcyclists in mind. Unlike car-focused systems adapted for bikes, this motorcycle navigation system brings predictive, context-aware environmental alerts tailored to real-world riding conditions. Riders receive timely warnings about potential hazards such as slippery road surfaces or strong crosswinds, displayed only when relevant to avoid unnecessary distraction while on the move. A key highlight is the AI-powered routing agent, which allows riders to plan journeys using natural language voice commands. Want a more engaging ride? The system also offers motorcycle-optimised scenic routing, prioritising twisty roads with dynamic geometry over dull...

Vertical Aerospace has marked a major milestone by bringing its Valo electric aircraft to the United States for the first time, kicking off a showcase tour in New York City. The appearance also signals serious intent, with plans already in motion to establish air taxi routes in and out of Manhattan in partnership with Bristow Group and Skyports Infrastructure. Designed as a next-generation electric air taxi, the Valo is targeting certification by 2028. The aircraft is engineered to cover distances of up to 100 miles at speeds reaching 150 mph, all while producing zero operating emissions. Its cabin is configured for four passengers as standard, with the flexibility to expand to a six-seat layout, making it suitable for both premium and high-demand urban travel. Vertical and its partners are evaluating multiple use cases for the Valo, focusing on reducing travel times in and around one of the world’s most congested cities. Proposed routes include rapid airport transfers between JFK a...

When it comes to choosing a new vehicle, safety is one of the most important factors for many buyers. Particularly for families or those who frequently drive long distances, the safety features and crash-test ratings of an SUV can make a significant difference. Photo by HAMZA YOUNAS on Unsplash As consumers become more aware of the risks associated with driving, understanding the safety ratings of different SUV models is essential to making an informed decision. Let's explore how safety ratings influence the selection of an SUV, focusing on crash-test results, features, and real-world safety performance. Understanding SUV Safety Ratings The safety ratings of SUVs are determined through rigorous testing by organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Consumer Reports explains that these tests assess multiple aspects of vehicle safety, including crashworthiness, rollover risk, and safety fea...

Mercedes-Benz has offered an early look at the updated S-Class ahead of its world premiere scheduled for 29 January. The preview, presented by CEO Ola Källenius in a short YouTube film, hints at one of the most extensive updates in the luxury sedan’s storied history. According to Mercedes-Benz, over 50 percent of the S-Class has been revised, with nearly 2,700 components either new or updated. The changes underline the brand’s intent to keep its flagship sedan at the forefront of luxury, technology and comfort. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz VLE Electric MPV to Debut in March 2026 Visually, the refreshed S-Class adopts a revised exterior design highlighted by an upright Mercedes star on the bonnet, reinforcing its traditional flagship identity. Inside and beneath the surface, the car introduces the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), bringing next-generation digital functionality and connected features to the cabin. Buyers will also have access to expanded Manufaktur Made...

VinFast has achieved a major safety milestone in India, with its VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs earning the highest 5-star rating from Bharat NCAP. The results underline VinFast’s engineering focus on occupant protection and its commitment to meeting India’s increasingly stringent vehicle safety standards. In Bharat NCAP testing, both models scored five stars in Adult and Child Occupant Protection. The VF 6 recorded 27.13 out of 32 points for Adult Occupant Protection and 44.41 out of 49 points for Child Occupant Protection. The VF 7 performed even stronger, scoring 28.54/32 in AOP and 45.25/49 in COP, highlighting robust protection for families. Crash test performance further reinforced these results. In frontal impact tests, both the VF 6 and VF 7 achieved maximum scores for head, neck and upper leg protection for the driver and front passenger. Side impact tests also returned full marks for both adult and child occupant safety. In pole side impact testing, head injury values were re...

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has officially entered India’s battery electric vehicle space with the launch of the all-electric Urban Cruiser Ebella. Marking a major milestone for the brand, the new electric SUV blends Toyota’s global electrification expertise with bold styling, modern technology and a strong focus on safety and ownership assurance. Based on the Urban SUV Concept, the Urban Cruiser Ebella aligns with Toyota’s multipathway approach to electrification, offering Indian customers a new zero-emission mobility option while supporting the country’s decarbonisation and energy security goals. The electric SUV is offered with two battery options—49 kWh and 61 kWh—delivering a claimed driving range of up to 543 km on a single charge. Designed to look the part, it features Toyota’s signature hammerhead front design, sleek aerodynamics, premium LED lighting, dual-tone paint options and 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a confident SUV stance. Inside, the cabin focuses on space and com...

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), part of Daimler Truck, has officially introduced the eCanter all-electric light-duty truck in the United Arab Emirates. The regional debut took place in Dubai in collaboration with authorised distributor Al Habtoor Motors, bringing together customers and key stakeholders from the commercial vehicle industry. Billed as Japan’s first mass-produced electric light-duty truck, the eCanter has already been rolled out across several global markets. It is aimed squarely at urban-focused operations such as city logistics, municipal services and last-mile delivery, where zero-emission mobility is becoming increasingly critical. The eCanter offers zero tailpipe emissions, significantly lower noise levels and reduced operating costs compared to conventional diesel trucks. To suit a wide range of business needs, the electric truck is available with multiple battery configurations and flexible body options, allowing operators to customise range,...

Scania’s L-series cab has secured a five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s Safer Trucks programme, marking the highest possible score in the European safety assessment for commercial vehicles. The accolade was awarded to the electric L-cab variant, part of Scania’s utility-focused lineup that includes refuse collectors and urban service trucks. Designed specifically for city and vocational use, the L-series features a low-entry cab that improves visibility and reduces blind spots—critical advantages in dense urban environments. Its strong safety performance is backed by a comprehensive suite of active driver-assistance systems. These include advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning with active steering intervention, and a side-turn emergency brake that can detect cyclists when the truck is turning across their path. On the passive safety front, the L-cab is equipped with driver and side curtain airbags. It can also be specified with Scania’s City Door, which opens within a minima...

Ducati has unveiled the Panigale V4 Tricolore, a limited-run collector’s superbike that celebrates Italian pride, racing legacy, and cutting-edge performance. Limited to just 1,000 numbered units globally, the Tricolore pays homage to the iconic 1984 Ducati 750 F1 and continues the tradition of Tricolore-liveried flagship Ducatis. Based on the latest Panigale V4, the Tricolore wears a striking asymmetrical white, red, and green paint scheme designed by Drudi Performance and Centro Stile Ducati. The Italian tricolour is paired with a chequered-flag motif on the fairing, while race-style number plates add to its factory racer vibe. Beneath the skin, the seventh-generation Panigale V4 brings a revised chassis, integrated aerodynamics, and advanced electronics including Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) and Race eCBS. ALSO READ: Ducati Panigale V4 R With Over 330 KMPH Top Speed Launched in India For the first time, a Tricolore gets serious track-focused hardware. Highlights include fi...

Suzuki Motor Corporation has inaugurated its second biogas facility in India, strengthening its push toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility. The new Banas Suzuki Biogas Plant, located in Bhukhala, Banaskantha district of Gujarat, follows the launch of the company’s first plant at Agthala in December 2025. Developed in partnership with the National Dairy Development Board and Banas Dairy, the facility is part of an agreement signed in September 2023 to set up five biogas plants across the region. The plant converts cow dung into biogas for use as fuel in CNG vehicles, while also producing organic fertiliser as a by-product. Spread across 27,000 square metres, the Bhukhala plant can process up to 100 tonnes of cow dung every day, generating around 1.5 tonnes of biogas—enough to fuel approximately 850 CNG vehicles daily. Given that CNG-powered cars account for nearly 20 percent of India’s passenger vehicle market, Suzuki sees biogas as a key carbon-neutral solution to support cl...

Abu Dhabi has officially entered the era of fully autonomous mobility, with Baidu’s Apollo Go and K2’s AutoGo launching a commercial driverless ride-hailing service in the emirate. The service is now live on Yas Island, with phased expansion planned for Reem, Al Maryah and Saadiyat Islands in the coming months. Available via the AutoGo app, the service allows users to book rides in vehicles that operate without a human driver on board. Yas Island has been designated as an approved zone for fully driverless operations, marking a major milestone for smart mobility in the UAE. The partners are aiming to deploy hundreds of autonomous vehicles across Abu Dhabi by 2026. Apollo Go brings significant global experience to the project, operating in 22 cities worldwide and having logged over 240 million autonomous kilometres. More than 140 million of those kilometres were completed in fully driverless mode, with over 17 million rides recorded by October 2025. ALSO READ: Motional Targets F...

Volvo Cars Canada has returned to the Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS) with its latest premium lineup, headlined by the Canadian auto show debut of the Volvo EX30 Cross Country. The rugged take on Volvo’s smallest electric SUV is designed to offer extra versatility and confidence without losing its compact, city-friendly footprint. Based on the EX30, the Cross Country variant brings a tougher edge to electric mobility. It features a raised chassis, front and rear skid plates, and distinctive black exterior accents that underline its go-anywhere character. Aimed at drivers who want adventure-ready capability in a small EV, the EX30 Cross Country blends Scandinavian minimalism with practical upgrades and Volvo’s signature focus on safety. The debut also highlights the importance of Quebec for Volvo Cars Canada, particularly as the brand accelerates its electrification push. The Montreal Auto Show serves as a key platform for introducing the EX30 Cross Country to Canadian buyer...

Motional, the autonomous driving joint venture backed by Hyundai Motor Group, has confirmed plans to roll out a fully driverless Level 4 robotaxi service in Las Vegas by the end of 2026. The announcement follows supervised pilot operations conducted earlier using the Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi platform. As part of its next development phase, Motional is shifting to end-to-end AI motion planning. This approach merges perception, decision-making and vehicle control into a single learned system, moving away from traditional modular software. The goal is to deliver more natural, adaptable driving behaviour across complex real-world scenarios. The Ioniq 5-based robotaxis are manufactured at the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore and engineered to meet US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Independent safety assessments have also been carried out by TÜV SÜD. Motional’s validation strategy includes extensive simulation testing, closed-course evaluations and a gradual expan...

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has officially commenced export shipments of its premium SUV, VICTORIS, marking a key milestone in the brand’s global ambitions. Over 450 units have been dispatched from Mundra and Pipavav ports, bound for international markets, where the SUV will be sold under the name Across. Developed and manufactured in India, the VICTORIS is positioned as a modern, tech-forward SUV that blends intelligent features, premium comfort and futuristic design. It reflects Maruti Suzuki’s ‘Got It All’ philosophy, aimed at delivering a well-rounded ownership experience for global customers. The SUV has already demonstrated strong safety credentials, securing a 5-star rating in both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP, reinforcing its appeal in safety-conscious international markets. Adding to its global profile, the Made-in-India VICTORIS was showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, offering international audiences a closer look at Maruti Suzuki’s evolving product capabilities. W...

BYD has officially announced UK pricing for its new Sealion 5 DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV, with prices starting at £29,995 on the road for the Comfort trim and rising to £32,995 for the higher-spec Design variant. The Sealion 5 DM-i becomes BYD’s ninth model in the UK, with order books now open and showroom arrivals scheduled from 7 February. Positioned as an accessible electrified SUV, the Sealion 5 DM-i uses BYD’s proven dual-mode hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 212 PS. The focus here is efficiency without range anxiety, making it a compelling alternative to full EVs. The entry-level Comfort trim is equipped with a 12.96 kWh battery, delivering more than 38 miles of electric-only range, ideal for daily urban commutes. Step up to the Design trim and the larger 18.3 kWh battery extends EV range to 53 miles, allowing many drivers to complete regular journeys without using the petrol engine at all. With both power sources wo...

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an urgent safety warning after counterfeit airbag inflators imported from China were linked to eight driver fatalities and two serious injuries in the United States. The inflators, allegedly manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Co. Ltd. (DTN), are believed to have been illegally brought into the country and installed as replacement parts. According to NHTSA, the counterfeit inflators ruptured during crashes, firing metal fragments into vehicle occupants instead of deploying safely—an extremely dangerous failure mode reminiscent of past airbag scandals. All ten known incidents involved vehicles that had their original airbags replaced after earlier crashes, raising serious concerns about the use of unverified parts in accident repairs. So far, confirmed cases have involved Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata models, many of which carried salvage or rebuilt titles. However, the agency...

BYD has strengthened its customer promise in Europe by extending the warranty on its Blade Battery to eight years or 250,000km, up from the earlier 150,000km limit. The updated warranty applies across the European Economic Area, Switzerland and the UK, while retaining the same eight-year duration and a guaranteed minimum 70% state of health. Crucially, the expanded coverage isn’t limited to new buyers. BYD confirmed that existing owners of its battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids will also benefit automatically, reinforcing confidence in the brand’s long-term EV ownership proposition. The Blade Battery is a core part of BYD’s electric strategy and is fitted to all BYD passenger vehicles sold in Europe. Based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, the battery is designed for durability, thermal stability and long service life. According to BYD, the Blade Battery has been proven to exceed 3,000 charge and discharge cycles, translating to a potential lifespan of up to 1.2 ...

Bajaj Auto has expanded its electric scooter line-up with the launch of the all-new Chetak C25, a stylish and lightweight addition aimed squarely at urban riders. Designed for easy everyday mobility, the C25 brings a younger and more contemporary vibe to the Chetak family, while retaining the brand’s core values of solidity, reliability and a reassuring ride feel. Built to slip through congested city streets with ease, the Chetak C25 targets evolving urban lifestyles and multi-scooter households looking for convenient, independent mobility. Staying true to the Chetak’s identity, it features a premium metal body with a clean mono-body construction, a signature DRL headlamp and a high-quality paint finish. The neo-classic design is paired with six vibrant colour options and youthful, street art-inspired graphics. Powering the C25 is a 2.5 kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of up to 113 km and a top speed of 55 km/h—ideal for daily city commutes. Fast charging supports up to...