Automobile / The Economic Times
Maruti Suzuki India has partnered with Equitas Small Finance Bank to offer vehicle financing solutions to a wider customer base. This collaboration aims to enhance the accessibility and affordability of Maruti Suzuki vehicles by providing retail financing options for new, used, and commercial vehicles.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global job market, experts are urging young people to focus on careers that are less likely to be automated. According to PwC's latest report, roles in manual trades, creative fields, and AI-related sectors are expected to remain in demand. While AI is boosting productivity and offering higher salaries in tech-savvy industries, it's also reducing reliance on traditional degrees. Instead, employers are placing more value on practical skills and
The Nifty Auto index closed 0.36 per cent down at 23327.4.
Vikas Khemani shares his investment strategy amid Israel-Iran tensions and oil price swings, stressing Indias structural strength. He outlines sector picks like auto ancillaries, manufacturing, and chemicals.
Following the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad, Kiran Bedi shared a spiritual perspective, suggesting the accident reflects collective karmic forces, drawing from Paramahansa Yogananda's teachings. Yogananda believed such events stem from disturbances in humanity's vibratory field caused by selfish actions. Bedi's remarks sparked debate, with some criticizing the timing amidst grief and investigation.
The Nifty Auto index was trading 0.99 per cent down at 23179.45.
President Trump hinted at potentially raising tariffs on imported automobiles to bolster domestic manufacturing, building upon the existing 25 percent levies. This announcement immediately impacted the US auto market, causing shares of Ford and General Motors to decline. GM projects a significant earnings hit due to these tariffs, despite ongoing discussions with the administration regarding auto parts.
Indian automakers are facing potential supply disruptions of rare earth magnets due to China's export controls, impacting production of critical components for both electric and conventional vehicles. To mitigate this, the industry has proposed a three-pronged strategy to the government, including local assembly incentives, recycling initiatives, and diversification of import sources.
The Nifty Auto index closed 1.65 per cent down at 23411.8.
Mercedes-Benz introduced the AMG G63 Collectors Edition in India. It costs 4.30 crore. This special edition blends G-Wagon power with Indian design. It features customized upholstery and unique trim. The SUV retains its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. It includes MBUX infotainment and a 360-degree camera. Availability is limited. This collectible combines performance with Indian craftsmanship.
Dhananjay Sinha of Systematix Group indicates a recovery in the Information Technology sector. Improved US-China relations are easing investor concerns. Potential US tax cuts could further boost the sector. Significant corrections in IT stocks have created attractive valuations. Pharma and auto sectors may also benefit. Maharashtra government's duty hikes on alcohol may affect alco-beverage companies.
The Nifty Auto index was trading 0.82 per cent down at 23610.15.
Dolat Capital is optimistic about India's long-term growth. Kedar Kadam highlights sectors like FMCG and automobiles as potential outperformers in 2025. Falling interest rates and a good monsoon are expected to help. Opportunities exist in export and infrastructure sectors. Investors are advised to be cautious amid global uncertainties.
U.S. and China have signed a trade deal easing rare earth supply concernsvital for EVs, sensors, and defence components. The pact, which also includes visa relaxations and new tariffs, is expected to benefit global auto, electronics, and capital goods sectors, including Indias automakers.
An enterprising Mumbai autorickshaw driver, celebrated for his innovative bag storage service near the US Consulate, faced an abrupt shutdown. His lucrative venture, born out of security restrictions, gained widespread attention after a LinkedIn post highlighted his impressive earnings. However, this fame attracted scrutiny from Mumbai Police, who deemed the unauthorized operation a security threat, leading to its immediate termination.
An enterprising Mumbai autorickshaw driver, celebrated for his innovative bag storage service near the US Consulate, faced an abrupt shutdown. His lucrative venture, born out of security restrictions, gained widespread attention after a LinkedIn post highlighted his impressive earnings. However, this fame attracted scrutiny from Mumbai Police, who deemed the unauthorized operation a security threat, leading to its immediate termination.
The United States has declined India's request for consultations at the World Trade Organization regarding American tariffs on automobiles and auto parts. Washington claims the tariffs are based on national security grounds, not safeguard measures. India had sought discussions after the US imposed a 25% tariff. This dispute arises as India and US are negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement.
Maruti Suzuki's All-New Dzire has achieved a 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP, becoming the first sedan in India to do so, while the New Age Baleno scored 4 stars. Maruti Suzuki plans to equip all passenger vehicles with 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Program+ as standard features across all variants, enhancing safety across its entire range.
Indian auto industry representatives are seeking expedited rare earth magnet imports from China due to new export restrictions imposed in April. The restrictions, requiring special licenses and end-use disclosures, have led to potential production issues, especially for electric vehicles.
The Indian automotive sector is grappling with supply chain hurdles, primarily due to restrictions on shipments of rare earth magnets from China. This has prompted major automakers, including Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors, to urge the government to relax domestic value addition requirements linked to the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the Production-linked Manufacturing Plan (PMP).
Once a Senior Associate in the IT sector, Bengalurus Surendra R had to leave the corporate world due to health setbacks. Now an auto driver, his humble request for a job touched an HR executive, who shared his story on LinkedIn. The emotional post has since gone viral, with users rallying to help him relaunch his professional journey.
Minda Corporation has partnered with Toyodenso Co. to manufacture advanced automotive switches for the Indian market. The joint venture aims to provide comprehensive solutions, including design and manufacturing, for two-wheelers and passenger cars. A new manufacturing facility will be established in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with operations expected to begin in the second half of FY 2026-27.
Mohammed Siraj shares his emotional journey from Hyderabad to Lord's. He credits his father for his success. His post goes viral, receiving support from fans and friends. Siraj is preparing for the upcoming Test series against England. He is expected to play a key role in India's pace attack. Experts praise his adaptability for English conditions.
Chinese EV makers, led by BYD, are challenging Tesla in self-driving technology by offering affordable EVs with advanced driver-assistance systems. BYD's God's Eye undercuts Tesla's FSD, leveraging lower component costs and government support. Tesla faces challenges in China due to regulations, competition, and a strategic shift towards robotaxis, while Chinese firms gain advantages through scale and data collection.
Global automakers are alarmed by China's rare-earth export restrictions, fearing a new supply chain crisis. With limited alternative magnet sources, companies are stockpiling and seeking workarounds to avoid factory shutdowns. The industry's reliance on China for critical raw materials raises concerns about future leverage and potential disruptions.
Klarna AI layoffs have taken a surprising turn. The Swedish fintech giant, once praised for firing 700 employees and replacing them with artificial intelligence, is now reversing that decision. Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski admitted that relying too heavily on AI led to poor customer service and falling satisfaction levels. With complaints rising and users frustrated, Klarna is now rehiring humans to restore service quality. The companys bold AI-first strategy didnt deliver as expected. Thi
Raja Raghuvanshi's honeymoon turned tragic in Meghalaya. He suffered fatal head injuries. Police arrested his wife, Sonam. She conspired with three others to commit the murder. The conspirators confessed to the crime. Police recovered the suspected murder weapon. The investigation continues to uncover the motive. Raja's family is devastated. His mother demands justice for her son's death.
Anya, a Bengaluru resident, faced hostility from an autorickshaw driver over a fare dispute. The driver mocked her for speaking Hindi and demanded more money. Anya posted a video of the incident, sparking outrage online. Rapido has removed the driver from their platform. The incident has ignited a debate about language and respect in cosmopolitan cities.
A Mumbai auto driver's ingenious bag storage service near the US Consulate, earning him substantial income, sparked debate after a LinkedIn post went viral. While celebrated for his street-smart entrepreneurship, Info Edge's Sanjeev Bikhchandani argued the business model isn't venture capital fundable due to scalability issues and low barriers to entry.
Following a tragic accident in Thane, the Railway Board has mandated automatic door closers for all new and existing Mumbai suburban train rakes. Five people died after falling from an overcrowded train. Passengers collided with another train. The incident disrupted Central line services. Authorities are investigating the cause. Efforts are underway to restore normal train operations.
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has said that artificial intelligence is unlikely to trigger mass job losses but could deepen economic inequality if governments fail to act. In a detailed post on X, he argued that the real risk lies in monopolistic tech firms hoarding the benefits of automation. He urged policymakers to focus on fair economic distribution and warned that only human-centric jobs, such as caregiving and farming, might hold future value. Policy, not AI, will decide who wins, he said.
China's dominance of the critical mineral industry, key to the green energy transition, is increasingly viewed as a key point of leverage for Beijing in its trade war with US President Donald Trump. China produces around 90% of the world's rare earths, and auto industry representatives have warned of increasing threats to production due to their dependency on it for those parts.
Miley Cyrus captivated fans while promoting her new album, Something Beautiful, in New York. The 32-year-old singer sported a daring sheer black dress, complemented by sunglasses and a high bun, while signing autographs. Cyrus revealed that the visual album's film was inspired by Pink Floyds The Wall and that the songs contain healing sound elements.
Maruti Suzuki India's Grand Vitara has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 3 lakh unit sales in just 32 months, establishing itself as the fastest-selling SUV in its segment. The surge in sales is largely attributed to the Strong Hybrid variants, witnessing a 43% year-on-year growth.
Canada's trade deficit reached a record high in April. This was due to a sharp decline in automobile exports to the United States. Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian auto, steel, and aluminum sectors caused this drop. Canada's trade surplus with the US also decreased. However, trade with other countries like China and the UK increased.
U.S. auto suppliers are urgently calling for action as China's restrictions on rare earth exports threaten to disrupt auto parts production. The Vehicle Suppliers Association warns of serious supply chain risks due to the new licensing requirements, which have already halved rare-earth magnet exports. Automakers are feeling the impact, with Ford already halting production due to shortages.
Mullen Automotive stock surged over 240% after the California-based EV startup announced plans to launch its high-performance Five RS SUV in Europe by the end of 2025. The company will begin sales in Germany, then expand to other European countries, the UAE, and Africa in 2026. Mullen plans a U.S. launch only after proving strong sales overseas. Partnering with German firm Faissner Petermeier Fahrzeugtechnik AG for manufacturing, Mullen also boosted its stake in Bollinger Motors to 95%. This bol
India has initiated discussions with the United States under the World Trade Organisation. This concerns American tariffs imposed on auto components. The move follows India's reservation to impose retaliatory duties on select US products. This is in response to US tariffs on steel and aluminium. India considers the US tariff increase a safeguard measure.
In Bengaluru, a road dispute escalated when Pankhuri Mishra assaulted auto-rickshaw driver Lokesh with her slipper after a minor collision. The incident, captured on video, went viral, leading to an FIR against Mishra. She later apologised, claiming inappropriate behavior from the driver and stating she panicked due to her pregnancy, while pro-Kannada groups demanded action.
TVS Motor Company sees a significant boost in sales. Total sales surge by 17 percent in May. The company sold 4,31,275 units. Two-wheeler sales rise by 16 percent. Domestic two-wheeler sales increase by 14 percent. Three-wheeler sales jump by 46 percent. Exports grow by 22 percent. The company showcases strong performance across various segments.
Mamta Pathak, a chemistry professor convicted of her husband's murder, is challenging her 20-year sentence in the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Representing herself, she argues the autopsy failed to conclusively prove electrocution, citing her scientific expertise.
The Congress party has raised concerns over the declining share of passenger cars in India's auto sales, suggesting it reflects economic inequality and stagnant incomes. Jairam Ramesh highlighted that while SUV sales are rising, driven by first-time buyers, many Indians are unable to afford entry-level cars.
China's auto industry is facing an intensifying price war, sparked by BYD's significant discounts on its electric vehicles, leading to concerns about a potential shake-out. This price war is putting immense pressure on weaker players and the automotive supply chain, with some companies selling cars below cost.
Tesla's prior success did become a synonymous with Elon Musk. However, the billionaire's association with Donald Trump administration has not gone down well with a section of market.
India's FTA with the UK offers nuanced duty concessions for the auto sector, linking relaxations and quotas to engine capacity and vehicle prices. Import duties will be reduced over 10-15 years with adequate safeguards for sensitive sectors. The agreement aims to double two-way commerce by 2030, benefiting companies like Tata-JLR.
Even with recent troubles, an expert says Tesla has a bright future thanks to its self-driving tech and AI. He thinks it could grow a lot if everything goes right, and robotaxis may be a big part of it.