motornews

Royal Enfield has taken a bold step forward by launching the all-new Bullet 650 in India, bringing its most iconic nameplate into the 650cc era. First introduced in 1932, the Bullet remains the world’s longest-running motorcycle in continuous production. Now in its 94th year, the machine has evolved into its most powerful form yet, while retaining the unmistakable silhouette, upright stance, and that signature old-school appeal enthusiasts swear by. At its heart sits Royal Enfield’s proven 650cc parallel-twin engine, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The setup promises smooth power delivery, making it equally at home on relaxed highway cruises and more spirited weekend rides. Underneath, the Bullet 650 is built on a steel tubular spine frame and gets Showa suspension, ensuring a stable and composed ride. Classic proportions are preserved with a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup, keeping that commanding road presence intact. Design remains pure Bullet. The t...

BYD has expanded its UK portfolio with the launch of the BYD Dolphin Cargo—a clever light commercial vehicle derived from the Dolphin hatchback. Priced from £29,358 (excl. VAT), the compact EV van is tailored for urban businesses looking to go electric without compromising usability. Instead of building a dedicated LCV from scratch, BYD has opted for a smart local conversion. The rear seats are removed and replaced with a full metal bulkhead, freeing up 1,093 litres of cargo space, including underfloor storage. The load bay gets a tough phenolic ply floor, reinforced door panels, and protective film on the bumper, while optional polycarbonate rear panels boost security. Power comes from a 204PS electric motor paired with a 60.4kWh Blade Battery—BYD’s cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate setup. The brand claims an impressive 347-mile city range and 265 miles on the combined WLTP cycle, making it well-suited for last-mile delivery duties. Despite its workhorse role, th...

After a five-year silence, Mitsubishi Motors is bringing back one of its most iconic badges—the Mitsubishi Pajero . The all-new model is set to make its global debut in autumn 2026, marking a significant revival for the brand’s flagship SUV line. The new Pajero will be built on a rugged ladder-frame platform derived from the Mitsubishi Triton , but with extensive reworking to suit its SUV role. Mitsubishi promises a balance of serious off-road ability and improved on-road comfort, thanks to model-specific suspension and cabin development. First introduced in 1982, the Pajero quickly became a global off-road icon. Its motorsport pedigree is hard to ignore—12 Dakar Rally wins, including a dominant streak of seven consecutive victories. Over four generations, the SUV clocked more than 3.25 million sales across 170+ markets, cementing its reputation for durability and go-anywhere capability. Back home in Japan, the Pajero also sparked a recreational vehicle boom in t...

BMW has reached a major production milestone in China, with its joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive rolling out its seven millionth vehicle from the Shenyang Production Base. Marking the occasion is a special BMW 3 Series Horse Edition. The achievement highlights the rapid scale-up of BMW’s manufacturing footprint in China since local production began in 2003. What started as a single assembly operation has evolved into a fully integrated manufacturing hub, covering complete vehicle production, powertrain manufacturing, and even local research and development. The timing is significant. BMW Brilliance is gearing up to begin production of its next-generation Neue Klasse models in Shenyang later in 2025 — a move that signals a fresh chapter for the brand in one of its most important global markets. The Neue Klasse platform is expected to play a key role in BMW’s future, particularly in electrification and digitalisation, making this milestone more than just a n...

LG Electronics is pushing the boundaries of in-car tech with its latest Android Automotive OS-based infotainment system, built around a clever single-chip architecture that could redefine modern dashboards. At the heart of the system is a multi-display control setup powered by Qualcomm Technologies ’ Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. Unlike conventional setups that require separate chips for each screen, LG’s solution runs multiple displays of varying sizes and formats using just one system-on-chip. The idea is simple but impactful — fewer components, lower costs, and reduced system complexity for automakers. In its demo, LG showcased a seamless experience with a driver-focused navigation screen, a front passenger video display, and even rear-seat live TV, all running simultaneously off a single processor. Beyond hardware efficiency, the system brings a more personalised in-car experience. It supports individual user profiles, customised settings, cross-screen content ...

Toyota has rolled out a comprehensively updated Hilux in Japan, bringing fresh tech and improved durability to its iconic pickup. Prices start at JP¥4.98 million for the Z grade, going up to JP¥5.5 million for the more rugged Z Adventure variant. Built at Toyota’s Ban Pho plant in Thailand, the new Hilux sticks to its proven ladder-frame IMV platform but gets notable structural upgrades. Thicker frame side rails and 36 additional spot welds in the floor enhance rigidity, promising better toughness — something Hilux buyers swear by. Under the hood sits the familiar 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. A part-time 4WD system comes standard, along with Multi-Terrain Select and Multi-Terrain Monitor, making it as capable off-road as ever. Dimension-wise, the pickup measures 5,325 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width and 1,865 mm in height, with a payload capacity of up to 500 kg. While the core remains rugged, Toyota has injected a dos...

Modern diesel trucks are built to deliver strong towing power, dependable performance, and long-term durability. However, as emissions systems become more advanced, many diesel owners begin facing issues related to soot buildup and restricted airflow. One of the most discussed topics among heavy-duty diesel enthusiasts is the LML EGR delete , particularly due to recurring maintenance concerns associated with excessive carbon buildup in the engine. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation system, commonly known as the EGR system, was designed to reduce emissions by redirecting a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s intake system. While this process helps lower nitrogen oxide emissions, it also introduces hot soot-filled exhaust into vital engine components. Over time, this can create thick carbon deposits that affect airflow, throttle response, cooling efficiency, and overall engine reliability. As soot accumulates, drivers may begin noticing reduced power, sluggish a...

Lancia has revealed the first look at its all-new Gamma, a sleek crossover fastback that signals the brand’s next chapter under Stellantis . Built on the STLA Medium platform, the Gamma will be offered with both hybrid and fully electric powertrains for Europe. Measuring 4.67 metres in length, the Gamma sits firmly in the premium mid-size space, blending coupe-like styling with crossover practicality. Under the hood, Lancia is offering a 145 hp hybrid variant capable of delivering a claimed range of over 1,000 km. The EV lineup is where things get interesting. Buyers will get three options: a 230 hp version with over 540 km range, a more efficient 245 hp variant pushing past 740 km, and a range-topping 375 hp all-wheel-drive model with up to 675 km on a single charge. The Gamma has been designed, engineered and developed entirely in Italy, and will roll out of Stellantis’ Melfi plant — one of the group’s most advanced production facilities. Lancia says the model r...

Volvo is set to significantly boost charging convenience for its EV customers, announcing access to Tesla’s Supercharger network across Europe starting in Q4 2026. This move will open up more than 20,000 Supercharger stations spanning 29 European countries, dramatically expanding fast-charging availability for Volvo drivers. Key markets include Germany, France, Norway, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Spain — regions where Tesla ’s infrastructure is already well established. Eligible models will include Volvo’s latest electric lineup such as the EX30, EX40, EC40, EX60, EX90, and ES90. Access to the Supercharger network will be seamlessly integrated through the Volvo Cars app, keeping the user experience clean and familiar. The Swedish automaker isn’t stopping there. It also plans to transition select models in Japan and South Korea to the North American Charging System (NACS) by 2029, aligning with Tesla’s widely adopted charging standard and future-proofing...

Bosch has taken a major step in electrifying heavy-duty transport, with its joint venture Bosch MC Battery Service Innovations securing its first customer in China. Partnering with Mitsubishi Corporation, the venture has rolled out a new energy service hub in Chizhou, operated by Shanghai Lingzhou Technology. The facility introduces a ‘Battery as a Service’ model tailored for electric truck fleets. In simple terms, it allows trucks to either swap depleted batteries or recharge them within minutes — a game-changer for commercial operations where downtime directly impacts profitability. The hub is already capable of handling over 100 electric trucks per day. Behind the scenes, an AI-driven charging system and integrated inspection tech manage the entire process, ensuring both speed and safety. Bosch’s ‘Battery in the Cloud’ software plays a crucial role here, constantly monitoring battery health, predicting degradation, and optimising charging strategies for fleet ope...

Xiaomi is turning up the heat in the performance EV space with two new additions to its YU7 luxury SUV range — the YU7 Standard and the range-topping YU7 GT. And it’s the GT that’s grabbing headlines. The YU7 GT has stormed the Nürburgring Nordschleife with a blistering lap time of 7:22.755, setting a new production SUV record and undercutting the previous benchmark by a massive 14 seconds. That’s serious pace for a full-size electric SUV. Powering the GT is a dual-motor setup producing a staggering 1,003 PS, driven by Xiaomi’s HyperEngine V8s EVO that spins up to 28,000 rpm. The result? A 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.92 seconds and a claimed top speed of 300 km/h — numbers that firmly place it in supercar territory. On the other end, the YU7 Standard offers a more balanced package. It gets a 73 kWh LFP battery on a 752V platform, delivering a CLTC range of 643 km. Performance remains strong, with 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h. Fast charging...

Geely Auto has pushed safety testing a step further by subjecting the Geely Starray EM-i to a unique, beyond-regulation crash test in France. Conducted at UTAC ’s Euro NCAP-accredited facility, the test combined a side-impact collision with a secondary pole strike—simulating a real-world chain crash scenario. The test saw a moving deformable barrier hit the SUV at 60 km/h, forcing it into a rigid pole placed on the opposite side. This dual-impact setup goes beyond standard Euro NCAP protocols, which typically assess single-phase impacts. According to Geely, the Starray EM-i maintained cabin integrity during the crash, with airbags deploying as intended. The vehicle also activated its emergency eCall system and automatically unlocked its doors post-impact. Battery safety—crucial for electrified vehicles—was also evaluated, with the system reportedly remaining protected. The demonstration took place at the “Automotive Safety Tech Globalization & Innovation in ...

BYD is expanding its footprint in the UK with the introduction of the all-new BYD Ti7 —its largest model yet for the market. This three-row SUV is aimed at families and lifestyle buyers looking for space, performance and electrified efficiency in one package. Measuring over 5.1 metres in length, the Ti7 sits at the top of BYD’s UK lineup. Under the hood, it uses the brand’s Dual Mode Performance (DM-p) plug-in hybrid setup, combining a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with dual electric motors and all-wheel drive. The result is a claimed 0-62 mph time of just 4.8 seconds, making it surprisingly quick for its size. It also offers a WLTP electric-only range of up to 79 miles, though full battery and charging details are yet to be revealed. Design-wise, the Ti7 gets a bold stance with split LED lighting up front, a contrasting lower bumper finished in titanium tones, and chunky wheel arches. The upright rear profile emphasises practicality, while inside, the cabin is con...

Jaguar Land Rover is gearing up to showcase the all-new Range Rover Electric, marking the first fully electric model to carry the iconic Range Rover badge. The EV will be previewed at exclusive, invitation-only events through summer 2026, before order books officially open later in the year. The pre-production SUV has already made its first public appearance at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with additional showings lined up in Sardinia and at Wimbledon. These curated events will offer select customers an early look—and feel—of the brand’s most anticipated EV yet. In terms of design, the Range Rover Electric sticks closely to the brand’s signature silhouette. Subtle cues like a flush grille and unique wheel centre caps are the only giveaways of its all-electric underpinnings, keeping the classic Range Rover identity intact. JLR is keeping technical details under wraps for now, with no confirmation yet on battery specs, range, pricing or drivetrain configuration. Wha...

Hyundai Motor America is scaling up its software game, expanding its over-the-air (OTA) digital features marketplace to more vehicles. The Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Santa Cruz and Hyundai Ioniq 5 now join the platform, taking the total to six models alongside the Hyundai Palisade and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Through the Bluelink Store, customers can browse, purchase and activate software-driven features directly via the app or website. Updates are delivered over the air and installed without a dealership visit, making the process seamless. Hyundai also confirms that once purchased, these features remain with the car for life—even transferring to the next owner. To mark the expansion, Hyundai has introduced a special FIFA World Cup 2026 display theme, available free for US customers until October 19, 2026. It features tournament branding along with visuals of Boston Dynamics’ Atlas and Spot robots. Other themes on offer include Nature, a retro-inspired Hyun...

Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to showcase its first flex-fuel vehicle in India on World Environment Day, signaling a fresh push towards alternative fuels. The announcement was made by Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, during a recent event in Nagpur. This move doesn’t come out of the blue. Maruti has been quietly developing flex-fuel technology, and previously pulled the wraps off an E100-ready version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx at the Japan Mobility Show. That prototype hinted at the brand’s readiness to adapt to ethanol-based fuels as India explores cleaner mobility solutions. At the same time, the government is accelerating efforts to support flex-fuel adoption. Plans are underway to establish around 5,000 E100 fuel stations across the country within the next two years, a move aimed at reducing dependence on crude oil imports. The upcoming unveiling could mark a significant step in making ethanol-powered vehicles more mainstream in India. If...

Nissan Motor Company is stepping up its performance game Down Under, confirming a major expansion of the NISMO brand in Australia. The move brings factory-backed expertise, heritage support and genuine performance parts closer to one of the world’s most passionate GT-R fanbases. The headline development is the introduction of dedicated NISMO Performance Centres, making Australia among the first markets outside Japan to tap directly into the knowledge base of the legendary NISMO Omori Factory . These centres will offer access to authentic NISMO upgrades, restoration programs and specialised services, all backed by factory-trained NISMO Meisters. The first facility is slated to open in the second half of 2026 at Nissan Ferntree Gully in Victoria, with more locations expected to follow. Customers can expect a direct link to Japan’s performance hub, ensuring the same level of precision and craftsmanship associated with NISMO globally. This announcement also aligns w...

Hyundai Motor Group has outlined its ambitious hydrogen roadmap for Europe at the World Hydrogen Summit 2026, putting the spotlight on its next-generation fuel cell tech and ecosystem strategy. Headlining the display is the all-new Hyundai Nexo, a key pillar of the brand’s hydrogen mobility push. Alongside it, Hyundai is also showcasing advanced fuel cell systems designed for stationary power and industrial use, underlining its intent to go beyond just passenger vehicles. The entire presentation is built around Hyundai’s dedicated hydrogen brand, HTWO, which spans the complete value chain—from hydrogen production and infrastructure to end-use applications. The company is positioning itself as a long-term partner for Europe’s hydrogen ambitions, leveraging over two decades of fuel cell development expertise from South Korea. In the European market, Hyundai has already made its presence felt with products like the Nexo and the Hyundai Xcient Fuel Cell truck. Now, a...

Audi is gearing up to expand its EV portfolio with the upcoming Audi A2 e-tron , slated for a global reveal in autumn 2026. Positioned as an entry-level electric offering, the A2 e-tron aims to bring premium EV credentials into a more accessible compact package. The prototype is already deep into testing, undergoing extreme cold-weather validation in northern Sweden. Engineers are pushing the camouflaged test car across snow and ice to fine-tune driving dynamics, battery efficiency, and thermal management in sub-zero conditions. Back in Germany, Audi’s Ingolstadt facility is handling wind tunnel development, where the A2 e-tron is being shaped for aerodynamic efficiency at speeds of up to 300 km/h. Further real-world testing in Bavaria’s Altmühl Valley is focusing on suspension tuning and driver assistance systems across varied terrain, including tight corners and elevation changes. Production of the A2 e-tron will also take place at Ingolstadt, reinforcing Audi’s...

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the exclusive Night Editions of its best-selling luxury SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and Mercedes-Benz GLS , in India. These limited-run models are part of a global series and will be available in restricted numbers, adding a layer of exclusivity to the brand’s already popular SUV lineup. Visually, the Night Editions stand apart with a darker, more aggressive theme. Buyers can choose between Obsidian Black and the striking Alpine Grey, the latter being exclusive to these variants and unavailable on standard models. Inside, the cabin gets a premium upgrade with black Nappa leather upholstery paired with Anthracite open-pore oak wood trim—another exclusive touch. Feature-wise, both SUVs now come equipped with a Head-Up Display as standard. The GLE Night Edition further ups the game with the addition of AIRMATIC air suspension, enhancing ride comfort and adaptability over the regular version. The GLE and GLS continue to be strong performe...

Suzuki has taken the wraps off the all-new Suzuki Burgman 150 in Colombia, marking a significant step up from the familiar Suzuki Burgman Street 125 . The Burgman 150 embraces a proper maxi-scooter stance, featuring a larger body, wide front apron , and a bold lighting setup combining projector LEDs, DRLs, and indicators. Its design is complemented by a central spine and spacious footboard layout, promising a more comfortable riding experience. On the feature front, Suzuki has gone all out. The scooter packs a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity , turn-by-turn navigation, keyless ignition , dual-channel ABS, and even switchable traction control —a rare addition in this segment. Power comes from a 149cc air-cooled engine producing 14.2 bhp and 14.2 Nm , paired with 14-inch wheels at both ends. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks up front and dual rear shocks. With a 760 mm seat height , 145 kg kerb weight , and an 8-litre fuel tank , it strikes ...

Mini has expanded its electric portfolio in Australia with the arrival of the all-new MINI Aceman SE . Slotting neatly between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman , this compact crossover offers a fresh mid-size EV option for urban buyers. Powering the Aceman SE is a front-mounted electric motor producing 160 kW (218 hp) and 330 Nm of torque , delivering brisk performance right from standstill. It draws energy from a 49.2 kWh usable battery , offering a claimed range of up to 405 km , making it well-suited for daily commutes and city runs. At just under 4.1 metres long, the Aceman SE is designed with tight urban environments in mind. Its front-wheel-drive layout , light steering, and low centre of gravity promise a nimble and engaging drive—something MINI enthusiasts will appreciate. That said, the Australian market presents a unique challenge. Dominated by rugged utes and large SUVs, and with relatively limited public charging infrastructure, EV adoption still ...

Skoda Auto has taken a big step toward making EVs more accessible with the unveiling of the all-new Skoda Epiq . Positioned as the brand’s most affordable electric crossover yet, the Epiq will sit below the existing EV lineup and aims to match the pricing of its ICE sibling, the Skoda Kamiq , in several markets. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s new MEB+ platform , the Epiq is also the first Skoda EV to feature front-wheel drive , signalling a shift toward cost-efficient, mass-market electric mobility. Battery, Range and Performance The Epiq will be offered with two battery options and three power outputs. Entry-level variants use a 38.5kWh LFP battery , producing 85kW and 99kW, with a claimed range of around 310km . The range-topping Epiq 55 gets a larger 55kWh NMC battery paired with a 155kW motor, pushing range to approximately 440km . Fast-charging from 10 to 80 percent takes just 24 minutes , making it practical for daily use and longer trips. Tech That Goe...

In a move that feels straight out of the future, Volvo Cars has teamed up with Google to showcase a world-first in-car integration of the Gemini AI model , and it’s seriously impressive. Demonstrated at the Google I/O conference, the system uses the upcoming Volvo EX60 ’s exterior cameras to let AI “see” the world around the car—and explain it to you in real time. Your Car Just Got Smarter In the demo, Gemini was able to read parking signs and break down complex rules—like time limits, restrictions, and permit requirements—into simple, spoken explanations for the driver. Think of it as having a co-driver who actually understands confusing road signage. This is made possible by the EX60’s advanced neural processing unit (NPU) and software-defined architecture, which allow the AI to process both visual inputs from cameras and voice queries simultaneously. The result? A seamless blend of real-world awareness and conversational intelligence. Navigation Gets a Maj...

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has hit a major milestone in India’s evolving electrification story, announcing cumulative sales of 3 lakh hybrid vehicles . It’s a big moment—not just for the brand, but for hybrid technology itself, which is steadily finding favour among Indian buyers. The milestone underlines the growing acceptance of self-charging hybrid electric vehicles (SHEVs) , especially in a market where full EV adoption still faces infrastructure and cost challenges. For many buyers, hybrids are emerging as the perfect middle ground—offering better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and none of the range anxiety associated with EVs. Toyota’s strong hybrid portfolio in India includes models like the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder , Toyota Innova HyCross , Toyota Camry Hybrid , and the premium Toyota Vellfire . These vehicles have played a key role in building customer confidence around hybrid tech, especially among buyers upgrading from conventional petrol or diesel c...

After years of losing ground in Europe, Ford has finally laid out a serious comeback plan. The brand has confirmed seven new models for Europe by 2029 , aiming to revive declining passenger car sales while strengthening its already dominant commercial vehicle business. This new push falls under a global strategy called “Ready-Set-Ford,” focused on blending performance, workhorse capability, and motorsport DNA. Passenger Cars Take Centre Stage Five of the seven models will target the passenger car space. Leading the charge are two all-electric offerings —a B-segment hatchback and a compact SUV—both to be built at a Renault plant in France using the Ampere platform. These EVs are expected by 2028 and will place Ford right in Europe’s most competitive segments. Also in the pipeline is a new Ford Bronco family member, set for production in Valencia, alongside two crossovers. All three are expected to offer hybrid and fully electric options , giving Ford flexibility...

Stellantis has announced an ambitious new project aimed at reviving the affordable small car segment with a new range of electric vehicles, set to hit production lines by 2028. Dubbed the “E-Car” project, the initiative focuses on building compact, budget-friendly EVs designed specifically for European urban mobility. The “E” represents European, Emotion, Electric, and Environmental friendliness—highlighting the brand’s intent to blend accessibility with sustainability. The move comes at a time when the small, affordable car segment in Europe has seen a sharp decline. Stellantis aims to reverse this trend by offering practical, city-focused EVs that are both cost-effective and technologically advanced. Production will take place at the historic Pomigliano plant in Italy, a facility known for manufacturing iconic models like the Fiat Panda . The company is expected to leverage the plant’s legacy and scale to achieve high production volumes. Stellantis also plans t...

Renault has officially named its upcoming pick-up truck ‘Niagara’, with the model scheduled for a global debut on 10 September 2026 ahead of its rollout in Latin America later in the year. The Niagara is part of Renault’s broader futuREady strategy, under which the carmaker plans to introduce 14 new models in markets outside Europe by 2030. The new pick-up will play a key role in strengthening Renault’s presence in the highly competitive Latin American market. Production of the Niagara will take place at Renault’s Córdoba facility in Argentina. The model draws inspiration from the Renault Niagara Concept that was first showcased in 2023, hinting at a rugged design and lifestyle-oriented appeal. The Niagara will join Renault’s growing portfolio in the region, alongside recently introduced models such as the Renault Boreal and Renault Kardian. from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/tplyoFn via IFTTT

Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its retail presence with the inauguration of a new luxury showroom in Visakhapatnam, as part of its ‘Go to Customer’ strategy targeting emerging high-growth markets. Operated by long-time partner Silver Star, the new 1S facility spans around 2,300 sq. ft. and offers a premium, personalised sales experience. The showroom features dedicated customer consultation areas, immersive product displays, and is fully compliant with Mercedes-Benz’s global corporate identity standards. It is supported by a team of 15 trained professionals. Marking the launch, the brand also showcased the all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA BEV in the city, underlining its push towards sustainable luxury mobility. This is Mercedes-Benz’s first 1S luxury facility in Visakhapatnam, complementing its existing service operations in the region. The move reflects the brand’s growing focus on expanding beyond metro cities while strengthening its footprint in established markets...

Amazon India has announced plans to roll out around 1,000 electric trucks across the country, in partnership with Eicher Trucks and Buses, a division of VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV). The move marks one of the largest dedicated electric truck deployments in India’s e-commerce and quick commerce space. The fleet will support Amazon Now operations, enabling efficient movement of goods between fulfilment centres on city outskirts and micro-fulfilment hubs closer to customers. As part of the collaboration, VECV has developed the Eicher Pro-X—a compact electric truck designed specifically for high-frequency intra-city logistics. Amazon has already deployed around 50 of these trucks and plans to scale up to over 1,000 units by 2028. In daily use, the trucks are expected to cover 100–180 km and complete multiple delivery runs, with fast-charging times of approximately 50 minutes. Initial deployment will focus on major markets including Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, su...

Norton Motorcycles is set to begin local manufacturing in India, with the Atlas ADV likely to become the brand’s first model to roll out from the country. Owned by TVS Motor Company, Norton will produce the Atlas at its Hosur facility near Bengaluru. The model is expected to launch in India in the second half of the year, following multiple test sightings on public roads. The Atlas will be built on a dedicated assembly line alongside the upcoming BMW F 450 GS, highlighting TVS’s growing manufacturing capabilities for premium motorcycles. Positioned as an adventure tourer, the Norton Atlas will be offered in two variants, including a GT version equipped with alloy wheels. The motorcycle features a semi-faired design with an upright riding stance and comes loaded with modern features such as an 8-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, multiple riding modes, traction control, and cruise control. Powering the bike is a 585cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine ...

Volkswagen has unveiled the ID.Polo GTI, marking a major milestone as the brand’s first all-electric model to wear the iconic GTI badge. Based on the recently revealed ID.Polo hatchback, the GTI version adds a sportier edge with a striking red exterior contrasted by black design elements. It features a black roof, black ORVMs, and 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, giving it a more aggressive stance. Inside, the cabin gets a performance-focused theme with an all-black layout and red accents. The dashboard houses a 10.35-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. A two-spoke steering wheel with a red 12 o’clock marker further emphasizes its sporty intent. Powering the ID.Polo GTI is a 52 kWh battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor producing 223 bhp and 290 Nm of torque. The hatchback offers a claimed range of up to 424 km (WLTP cycle). Performance figures are equally impressive, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.8 seco...

Hours of Service regulations are federal rules that limit how long a commercial truck driver can drive and work before taking mandatory rest. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration enforces these rules under 49 CFR Part 395 to reduce fatigue-related crashes on public roads. These rules apply to most drivers operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. Understanding the driving limits for truck drivers set by HOS regulations helps carriers stay compliant and helps injured parties establish negligence when violations occur. Violations of these rules are not minor infractions. They can result in driver disqualification, carrier penalties, and significant liability exposure after a crash. The Core HOS Rules Every Driver and Carrier Must Know The foundation of HOS compliance rests on three main limits that work together to control driving time, on-duty time, and rest requirements. The 11-Hour Driving Limit A property-carrying driver may drive ...

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded its highest Top Safety Pick+ rating to the 2026 Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Prius, strengthening their safety credentials in the latest round of evaluations. The Palisade qualifies following improvements in the moderate overlap front crash test. However, only models built after November 2025 are eligible, as Hyundai revised the rear seat belt buckle design to meet updated standards. Meanwhile, the Prius moves up from its earlier Top Safety Pick rating after performing better in IIHS’s updated vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention test introduced last year. To achieve a Top Safety Pick or higher, vehicles must score well in multiple crashworthiness tests, including moderate overlap, small overlap, and side impact evaluations, while also offering acceptable or good headlights across all variants. The Top Safety Pick+ rating further requires strong pedestrian crash prevention performance and improve...

Xiaomi has dramatically slashed delivery times for its YU7 electric SUV in China, with select buyers now able to take delivery within just two hours of placing an order on in-stock units. At launch in mid-2025, overwhelming demand saw wait times stretch beyond a year. Over 240,000 reservations were logged within the first 18 hours, pushing delivery estimates to as much as 56 weeks for the base variant. Today, those timelines have been significantly reduced, with current lead times ranging from seven to 14 weeks, depending on the variant. The standard YU7 now carries a waiting period of seven to 10 weeks, while the Pro and Max variants are listed at nine to 12 weeks and 11 to 14 weeks, respectively. Custom-configured models can be delivered within four to seven weeks. Buyers can complete the entire purchase process through Xiaomi’s app, with a delivery advisor assigned to manage the handover after the initial deposit is paid. This sharp reduction in waiting periods...

Honda has revealed prototypes of a next-generation Hybrid Sedan and an Acura Hybrid SUV at its business briefing in Japan, marking the beginning of an ambitious electrification push. The two models preview the first of 15 new hybrid vehicles Honda plans to launch globally by March 2030, with a primary focus on North America. Both prototypes are built on an all-new platform featuring an upgraded two-motor hybrid system. This setup improves engine efficiency and expands the operating range, while also reducing system costs. Honda claims over 10% better fuel economy and a 30% cost reduction compared to its current hybrid technology. A newly developed electric all-wheel-drive system further enhances performance and capability. The Honda Hybrid Sedan is slated to go on sale in 2027, while Acura’s hybrid models based on the new system will follow within two years. Looking ahead, Honda also plans to introduce larger D-segment hybrid models in North America by 2029. To s...

Toyota has expanded its iconic Land Cruiser lineup with the launch of the all-new, more compact FJ series in Japan, with prices starting at ¥4,500,100 (approx. $28,351). Positioned as the fourth model line alongside the 300, 250 and 70 series, the FJ is designed to offer classic Land Cruiser toughness in a smaller, more urban-friendly package. Toyota is targeting monthly sales of around 1,300 units. Built on a shortened ladder-frame chassis, the FJ measures 4,575 mm in length—around 350 mm shorter than the 250 series—while retaining strong off-road credentials. Power comes from a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120 kW and 246 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Adding a unique twist, Toyota has also previewed the upcoming “Land Hopper”—a compact electric personal mobility device that can be stored in the FJ’s boot. Set for launch in 2027, it’s designed for exploring trails beyond where the SUV can go, and can be ridden without a licence ...

Hyundai Translead has officially launched commercial sales of its XCIENT Fuel Cell hydrogen trucks in Canada, marking a key step in expanding zero-emission heavy-duty mobility. The trucks will be sold through Breadner Trailers, which is being upgraded from a conventional trailer dealership into a dedicated hydrogen truck outlet. Based in Ontario, a major logistics hub, the dealer is expected to support wider adoption of fuel-cell technology in commercial fleets. Hyundai’s XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks are already operational in Canada, with 11 units currently running as part of various hydrogen mobility initiatives in British Columbia. These include projects like the BC Hydrogen Ports initiative, the H2 Gateway Project led by HTEC, and the HDZEV programme overseen by Innovate BC. Globally, the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck has built a solid track record, clocking over 12 million miles in Europe and nearly one million miles in North America as of early 2026. The new dealership...