Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has disclosed that the State government will come up with a new EV (Electronic Vehicles) policy soon.
Speaking at a programme after handing over appointment orders to the newly recruited Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspectors (AMVIs) at the Khairatabad RTA office here on Monday, the Chief Minister said the State government was taking various measures to keep the city of Hyderabad free from pollution and asked the officials of Transport department to extend their cooperation for the endeavor of the government.
On the occasion, he appealed to the newly recruited AMVIs to speak to the students and unemployed in their respective villages and inspire them to prepare for competitive exams.
“Build confidence among the youth about the importance of education, which only give a recognition and respect, and also repose faith in the government,” Revanth Reddy advised the AMVIs.
He also asked the newly recruited staff to take stringent measures to curb the smuggling of drugs and Ganja in the border areas, saying that it is not a job but an emotion.
Indirectly criticising BRS leaders, the Chief Minister said that during Diwali festivities, some people consumed drugs in the guise of celebrating house warming ceremony.
“Leader means a vanguard. He should be a role model for all. He does not mean to celebrate festivals with drugs and liquor bottles,” he pointed out.
The Chief Minister further appealed to the youth to social boycott such leaders, advising that youth should think whether to consider Srikantachari , who sacrificed his life during Telangana movement, or leaders celebrating parties with drugs and liquor as role models.
Hyderabad: JSW MG Motor India has announced the expansion of the MG Hector lineup, India’s first Internet SUV, by including two new 7-seater variants, the Hector Plus 7-Seater Select Pro and Smart Pro, offer a spacious and versatile option for customers seeking a premium SUV experience. The Select Pro is powered by a 1.5T petrol engine paired with a CVT transmission, delivering a smooth and efficient driving experience. Available in a 2.0L diesel engine, The Smart Pro variant is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering fuel efficiency and torque.
“The addition of our new 7-seater Hector variants underscores JSW MG Motor India’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our valued customers. Building upon the success of the MG Hector, these new additions offer a spacious and versatile experience without compromising on the quality, comfort, and technological excellence that have made the Hector a beloved choice. We are confident that the Hector Plus 7-Seater Select Pro and Smart Pro will continue to meet and exceed expectations of SUV enthusiasts,” shared, Satinder Singh Bajwa, Chief Commercial Officer, JSW MG Motor India.
Priced competitively, the new variants of the Hector making all the key features more accessible that have made the Hector a popular SUV, including its commanding road presence, advanced technology, and superior driving comfort. Building upon its success, the new Select Pro and Smart Pro variants offer an enhanced in-car infotainment experience with India’s largest 14-inch HD portrait infotainment system, i-Smart technology with over 75 connected car features, Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto and a wireless phone charger.
With R18 Dual Tone machined alloy wheels, the new trims boast a bold exterior design, highlighted by LED projector headlamps, floating light turn indicators and LED blade connected tail lamps. Inside, the premium upholstery, leather-wrapped steering, and wooden finish create a sophisticated ambience. The full digital cluster with a 17.78 cm embedded LCD screen provides a modern and intuitive driver interface. For added convenience, both the Select Pro and Smart Pro variants feature push button engine Start/Stop with a Smart Key. The innovative Digital Bluetooth Key and Key Sharing capability, a first in the segment, offers enhanced convenience and security. Additionally, the cabin of the Smart Pro sports Dual Tone Argil brown & black interior theme with leatherette seat upholstery and equipped with power driver seats.
The new model offers a range of convenience and safety features, including cruise control, Electric Parking Brake, All four-wheel disc brakes, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Hold Control (HAC), ABS + EBD, brake assist, follow me home headlamps, cornering front fog lamps, front & rear defogger, speed sensing auto door lock, Isofix child seat anchors, and high-speed warning alert.
Both Select Pro and Smart Pro variants come with the unique car ownership program “MG Shield,” offering after-sales service options. Customers will also benefit from the standard 3+3+3 package, including a three-year warranty with unlimited kilometres, three years of roadside assistance, and three labour-free periodic services. Additionally, owners can customise their coverage by extending their warranty or roadside assistance or opting for the Protect plans, the company’s pre-paid maintenance packages for added peace of mind and a stress-free ownership experience.
Powertrain diversity is emerging as a transformative concept in the mobility sector, particularly with the integration of compressed natural gas (CNG) as a key player in creating a sustainable transportation ecosystem.
This approach combines various powertrain technologies—including electric, hybrid, biofuels, and traditional internal combustion engines—to meet the complex challenges of modern transportation while addressing carbon emissions and air quality, writes Vivek Sharma, Principal Analyst – Powertrain & Compliance Forecast at S&P Global Mobility. In his analysis, Vivek underscores CNG’s significant potential as an alternative fuel option within the transportation sector.
The Role of CNG in Sustainable Mobility
In India, the growing adoption of CNG vehicles among budget-conscious consumers marks a significant shift towards cost-effective and environmentally friendly fuel options. Cars priced under INR 10 lakhs primarily target the middle class, with CNG providing a compelling alternative to traditional fuels like petrol and diesel, thanks to its lower costs and reduced emissions.
Market Landscape
Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) leads the CNG market, holding approximately 72% of the share.
Tata Motors has strengthened its CNG offerings in 2022 by introducing advanced iCNG technology in entry-level cars, positioning itself to secure the second spot with around 15% market share. Notably, Tata was the first to implement twin-cylinder technology and automated manual transmission (AMT) in the CNG segment. Hyundai is also making significant strides with its Hy-CNG dual-cylinder technology, which has garnered positive customer feedback and is expected to capture about 12% market share by 2024 (as shown in the graphs in the later sections).
Many manufacturers are rolling out factory-fitted CNG variants of popular models, which enhance reliability and performance compared to aftermarket conversions. This shift is crucial as compliance with stricter emission standards like BS6 and RDE 2 drives consumers away from diesel and toward cleaner alternatives.
Economic Benefits
With rising fuel prices for gasoline and diesel, CNG presents substantial savings opportunities for individual consumers and fleet operators. It serves as a transitional fuel, appealing to those not yet ready to transition to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
Government Support and Industry Engagement
Strong government initiatives promoting cleaner fuels enhance CNG’s growth potential, facilitating infrastructure development and increasing consumer awareness. In my estimate, the share of factory-fitted CNG cars could stabilize at 20-22% by FY30. The automotive industry is increasingly investing in CNG technology alongside electric options, broadening consumer choices.
Furthermore, the optimized performance of factory-fitted systems alleviates concerns about engine efficiency and longevity, making CNG an attractive choice in the evolving automotive landscape.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development
Government initiatives promoting cleaner fuels and developing CNG infrastructure have further bolstered the adoption of CNG cars, especially in urban areas where pollution is a pressing concern.
The establishment of CNG refueling stations has expanded rapidly, providing the necessary support for consumers to transition to this cleaner fuel. In many metropolitan areas, local governments are also incentivizing the use of CNG through subsidies and grants for both consumers and businesses.
Taxation Variability and Its Impact
However, taxes on CNG can vary significantly by state and city in India, impacting its overall affordability and adoption. Some regions impose lower taxes on CNG, making it a more attractive option compared to petrol and diesel. For example, states like Gujarat and Maharashtra have implemented favourable tax structures that encourage the use of CNG. In contrast, other areas may have higher taxes that can diminish CNG’s cost advantages, affecting consumer choice.
The disparity in taxation can lead to inconsistent adoption rates across the country. Effective policy coordination at both the national and state levels is essential to promote CNG as a viable alternative fuel. Policymakers must consider not only the direct financial implications for consumers but also the broader environmental benefits of reducing air pollution.
Despite the recent reduction in APM (Administered Price Mechanism) gas volumes, CNG continues to shine as a smart, cost-effective fuel choice for the short and mid-term. With fuel costs rising across the board, CNG would still provide substantial savings over petrol and diesel, making it a highly attractive option for consumers.
Advantages of CNG Over Other Fuels
CNG provides numerous benefits that enhance its appeal in the context of a diverse powertrain landscape. It has a lower carbon footprint compared to gasoline and diesel, contributing to cleaner air quality, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Additionally, CNG combustion produces fewer particulate emissions and nitrogen oxides, making it a cleaner alternative that aligns with global efforts to reduce vehicular pollution.
The use of CNG is especially beneficial for fleet operations, where its affordability can significantly reduce overall costs. Many public transportation systems are transitioning to CNG buses, recognizing the dual benefits of lower fuel costs and reduced emissions. These fleets not only contribute to better air quality but also serve as a model for other sectors to follow.
Technological Integration and Future Prospects
The push for powertrain diversity is fueled by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and the pressing need to combat climate change. While electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity for their low emissions, CNG offers unique advantages in terms of refuelling speed and range, making it ideal for applications like public transit and long-haul trucking.
Additionally, CNG can work alongside other clean technologies, enhancing energy security and promoting a circular economy—especially when integrated with biofuels derived from waste. This synergy not only improves the environmental footprint of transportation but also fosters innovation in vehicle design and infrastructure development.
Bio CNG: A Decarbonization Solution
Among the various clean technologies, Bio CNG stands out as a particularly promising option for decarbonizing mobility.
Derived from organic waste through anaerobic digestion, Bio CNG not only provides a renewable energy source but also plays a crucial role in reducing methane emissions, especially in a country like India, where methane inventory is a significant concern due to agricultural and waste management practices.
By utilizing Bio CNG in transportation, we can tackle two critical issues simultaneously: decarbonizing mobility and managing methane emissions. In urban areas, where waste generation is high, Bio CNG can be produced locally, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.
Moreover, integrating Bio CNG with other clean technologies can improve energy security. For instance, when combined with biofuels from agricultural residues or food waste, it not only optimizes fuel production but also creates a more resilient energy ecosystem.
By leveraging a mix of powertrains, manufacturers can optimize performance, reduce costs, and meet diverse market demands. Urban areas may benefit from the efficiency of electric and hybrid vehicles, while rural regions can rely on CNG and traditional combustion engines for longer trips.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Mobility
In conclusion, powertrain diversity—with a strong emphasis on CNG—represents a forward-thinking strategy that enhances sustainability, efficiency, and adaptability in transportation systems. Continuous innovation and strategic investment in CNG and other technologies will ensure a resilient transportation landscape that evolves responsibly and inclusively.
As we move forward, it is crucial to focus on creating a robust ecosystem that supports CNG alongside other clean technologies. This includes further investments in infrastructure, consistent taxation policies, and public awareness campaigns highlighting the benefits of CNG.
Seoul: The number of diesel cars imported to South Korea has plunged by more than 60 per cent so far this year, with their market share dipping to the lowest in 20 years, data showed on Sunday.
In the January-October period, the number of diesel vehicle imports came to 6,740, down 65.1 per cent from the same period last year, according to the data from the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association (KAIDA). In October alone, the number plummeted 58.7 per cent on-year to 643. The January-October figure accounted for 3.1 per cent of all imported vehicles, marking the smallest market share since 2004, reports Yonhap news agency. The local market share of diesel imports had peaked at 69 percent in 2015 after breaching the 20 percent and 30 percent marks in 2009 and 2011, respectively, according to KAIDA. The sharp decline in the number of diesel imports was partly attributed to the so-called Dieselgate, where German carmaker Volkswagen AG was found in 2015 to have passed emissions tests by using “defeat devices.”
“Sales of diesel cars are slowing more rapidly in South Korea than in other countries due to the fast electrification of vehicles here,” a local market watcher said.
New Delhi: Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar launched the ‘EV as a Service’ programme of Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), aimed at boosting e-mobility in government offices with the deployment of 5,000 e-cars in government departments over the next two years.
The Union Minister flagged off an EV rally comprising vehicles in multiple segments with the call to action on adopting clean mobility alternatives to reduce emissions. The programme held at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here, marks a significant step forward in advancing the adoption of electric cars in Central and State Government ministries/departments, Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and institutions.
CESL, a subsidiary of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), as part of its E-Services drive, is leveraging a flexible procurement model, the programme allows for the deployment of a variety of e-car models, enabling government offices to choose e-cars that best align with their operational requirements.
It not only supports the government’s environmental sustainability vision but also aligns with India’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2070, according to an official statement. Enabling EV adoption within government fleets, CESL is contributing significantly to cutting carbon emissions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and bolstering India’s energy security.
The CESL has already deployed nearly 2000 nos. of E-Cars across India and is also facilitating the deployment of approximately 17,000 e-buses. The minister said, “The ‘EV as a Service’ programme exemplifies CESL’s dedication to sustainable innovation and showcases its ability to address the urgent need for clean mobility solutions.”
“I commend CESL for not only driving change but for setting an inspiring example in our nation’s journey toward greener transportation. With initiatives like these, India moves closer to a future where clean energy is the norm, creating a lasting impact for generations to come,” the minister added.
“The launch of ‘EV as a Service’ follows the recent introduction of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme, a national initiative aimed at fast-tracking India’s shift to electric mobility,” said Vishal Kapoor, MD & CEO, CESL.
“At CESL, the future of transportation is electric, and by facilitating EV adoption in government fleets, we are enabling large-scale emissions reduction and enhancing energy security for India. This programme aligns stakeholders – from manufacturers and fleet operators to policymakers and users – creating a collaborative ecosystem poised for growth,” he explained.
The launch event saw an impressive turnout and featured an EV Exhibition and an EV rally comprising more than 100 electric vehicles from a wide array of segments, including e-bicycles, electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, e-tractors, e-mobile charging vans, e-cargo pickups, e-buses, and e-trucks.
Senior officers from Central Government Ministries and Departments such as the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Department of Revenue, and Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs attended the event. Further, various E-Mobility Original Equipment Makers (OEMs), think-tanks and EV enthusiasts attended the event.
Maruti Suzuki has achieved a milestone by securing its first-ever five-star Global NCAP crash safety rating. This accomplishment marks a significant shift for a brand often criticized for its subpar safety ratings, with many of its models previously earning only one or two stars. This breakthrough is pivotal for Maruti Suzuki as it seeks to enhance its reputation for producing safer vehicles.
Why This Matters
The model that earned this coveted rating is not a high-end vehicle but the mass-market, sub-four metre Dzire. This distinction highlights Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to improving the crashworthiness of its more affordable cars, rather than focusing solely on its premium models like the Grand Vitara. By achieving this rating, Maruti Suzuki aims to demonstrate that passenger safety is a top priority, countering past perceptions of negligence in this area.
What This Means for Customers
The latest generation of the Dzire stands out due to the standardization of numerous safety features, which were previously optional or unavailable. These enhancements include:
Six airbags as standard, including side head curtain airbags and side chest airbags for both the driver and front passenger.
Increased use of “Ultra and Advanced High Strength Steel” for improved structural integrity, contributing to greater overall safety.
These advancements have come at a cost, with the base model of the new Dzire now priced at ₹6.59 lakh ex-showroom. While this increase may be a concern for some, it reflects the broader industry trend towards prioritizing safety over cost-cutting measures.
Context and Implications
Maruti Suzuki’s Chairman, RC Bhargava, has previously expressed concerns about the financial impact of mandatory safety features, particularly for entry-level buyers transitioning from motorcycles to cars. However, with the entry-level segment shrinking and competitors like Hyundai exiting this market, Maruti Suzuki’s strategic shift towards safety is an effort to rebuild its image and customer trust.
This move is also timely, considering the growing consumer awareness and demand for safer vehicles. According to McKinsey’s Automotive Consumer Survey, 58% of respondents are willing to pay more for safety, and 70% now consider it the most important factor in their purchasing decisions.
Why Safety Ratings Matter
The Global NCAP’s “Safer Cars for India” initiative has significantly influenced Indian car buyers, pushing manufacturers to prioritize crashworthiness. In the past, many popular models from Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai were criticized for not including essential safety features, often reserved for their international counterparts to manage costs.
This initiative has highlighted the disparity between the safety standards of cars sold domestically and those exported, forcing manufacturers to rethink their strategies. The increased focus on safety is further supported by government efforts to reduce road fatalities and enhance vehicle safety standards.
Looking Ahead
Maruti Suzuki’s journey towards improved safety is just beginning. The upcoming assessments of its other models by Bharat NCAP, which follows similar UN-based crash safety regulations, will be crucial. It remains to be seen whether models like the Swift, WagonR, and Alto will also see enhanced safety features becoming standard.
For now, Maruti Suzuki can celebrate this achievement, having set a new benchmark for safety in India’s automotive industry. This accomplishment not only elevates Maruti Suzuki’s standing but also sets a precedent for other manufacturers, including Hyundai and Kia, which have yet to secure a five-star Global NCAP rating for their India-made cars.
This step towards prioritizing safety signifies a broader transformation within the industry, where safer truly means better.
Seoul: Hyundai Motor Group has outperformed Volkswagen Group to become the world’s second-largest automaker in terms of operating profit, industry data showed on Thursday. According to automotive industry data, Hyundai Motor Group achieved sales of 69.4 trillion won ($49.6 billion) and an operating profit of 6.5 trillion won during the third quarter.
For the period from January to September, the South Korean automaker’s cumulative sales reached 208.9 trillion won, while operating profit was recorded at 21.4 trillion won, reports Yonhap news agency.
In terms of operating profit alone, Hyundai Motor Group ranked second among global competitors after Toyota Group. The Japanese automaker reported an operating profit of 1.15 trillion yen ($7.4 billion) for the third quarter, and an operating profit of 32.4 trillion won for the January-September period. For the third quarter, Volkswagen Group has reported an operating profit of 4.3 trillion won. For the first nine-month period, Volkswagen’s operating profit stood at 19.36 trillion won. With Volkswagen Group facing challenges in the Chinese market, many industry watchers see Hyundai Motor Group as being poised to secure the No. 2 position in terms of operating profit after Toyota Group for the entirety of 2024.
Hyundai Motor Group, however, is likely to take some time before surpassing Volkswagen Group in global sales volume.
Maruti Dzire Crash Test Rating: The new Maruti Suzuki Dzire, which debuted in India this week, received five stars for adult and four stars for kid occupant safety. The new Dzire is the first Maruti Suzuki to receive a five-star Global NCAP certification.
Now, what is Global NCAP certification?
It is a crash test that assesses frontal and side impact protection, ESC, and pedestrian safety, all of which are required for top-star ratings.
David Ward, Executive President of the Towards Zero Foundation, said, “The new Dzire’s five-star rating sets a significant safety benchmark for Maruti Suzuki compared to the previous version of this model and others from Maruti we have tested. Global NCAP warmly welcomes this milestone voluntary test result.”
“We are optimistic that going forward Maruti will seek to achieve this high level of safety performance across their model range. If they do, it will be a vehicle safety game changer for Indian consumers.”
Hero MotoCorp Unveils Xtreme 250R to Rival KTM Duke 250 in Streetfighter Segment
Hero MotoCorp has launched the flagship model of its Xtreme range, the Xtreme 250R. This naked motorcycle introduces a new 250 cc liquid-cooled engine, building on the concept design of the Xtunt 2.5R that was showcased in 2023. Positioned to compete with the KTM Duke 250, the Xtreme 250R brings a fresh edge to Hero’s lineup. Here’s a comparison of the Xtreme 250R and the KTM Duke 250 across key features.
Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM Duke 250: Engine
The Xtreme 250R debuts Hero’s latest 250 cc engine, which will also power the upcoming Karizma XMR 250. This 250 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valve engine, developed from Hero’s existing 210 cc version, features an extended bore length. The engine produces 29.5 bhp and 25 Nm of torque, achieving 0-60 km/h in just 3.25 seconds and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
The KTM Duke 250, on the other hand, sports a 250 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, delivering 30.5 bhp at 9,250 rpm and 25 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. It also features a 6-speed gearbox, with the added advantage of a bidirectional quick-shifter for smoother gear changes.
Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM Duke 250: Hardware
Both bikes use a trellis frame, providing stability and balance. The Xtreme 250R features a 43 mm upside-down front suspension and a 6-step adjustable mono-shock rear suspension, achieving a 50-50 weight balance. It rides on 17-inch wheels and includes disc brakes at both front and rear.
The Duke 250 is equipped with 43 mm USD forks and a 10-step adjustable mono-shock rear suspension. It also features 17-inch wheels, with a 320 mm front disc brake and a 240 mm rear disc brake. The Duke 250’s seat height is 820 mm, and it offers a ground clearance of 176 mm.
Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM Duke 250: Features
The Xtreme 250R includes a modern LED projector headlight with LED DRL, a Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument cluster, and connected features like navigation, music control, lap timer, and drag timer.
The Duke 250 now comes with a 5-inch color TFT display with advanced cube switches, providing information such as the rev counter, lap timer, and gear display. Additional features include navigation, headset pairing, SuperMoto mode, and two riding modes — Track and Street.
With the Xtreme 250R, Hero MotoCorp offers a compelling alternative in the streetfighter segment, challenging the Duke 250 with a mix of advanced features and a powerful engine upgrade.
In the luxury segment, BMW has been making the highest sales and recorded an impressive 10.8% EV penetration in its sales in CY 2023.
% EV penetration for Mercedez Benz sales has been gradually increasing every year and currently stands at 4.6%.
Observations:
Tata Motors has consistently made the highest EV sales in the 4W segment, with 51,892 electric cars for YTD CY 2024. This year, 11.7% of their total car sales have been electric, the same as CY 2023.
A distant second in overall EV sales, JSW Morris Garages India registered the highest EV penetration (33.4%) for YTD 2024. The company has been recording an impressive EV sales penetration year on year, as seen in the graph below. Every third car they have sold this year is electric.
Mahindra & Mahindra EV sales remain low at 1.5% penetration this year.
Citroën India sold 5,949 cars in YTD 2024; of which were 1,953 electric, amounting to 32.8% EV penetration in sales. Fun fact – Citroen has sold more EVs than ICE cars in Telangana in YTD 2024.
In the luxury segment,BMW Motors India has been making the highest sales and recorded an impressive 10.8% EV penetration in its sales in CY 2023, and 6.8% in YTD 2024.
Volvo Car Indiasold 387 EVs YTD 2024 (total sales 1550), amounting for ~25% EV penetration in its sales.
% EV penetration for Mercedes-Benz AG India sales has been gradually increasing y-o-y and stands at 4.6% for YTD 2024.
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