Automobile / The Economic Times
The United States and European Union have finalized a trade deal. The US will impose a 15% tariff on most EU imports. This includes autos, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and lumber. The US will lower car tariffs once the EU cuts tariffs on US goods. Tariff relief could come soon. The EU will eliminate tariffs on all US industrial goods.
In Satara, a woman constable was injured after being dragged by an autorickshaw driven by a suspected drunk driver. Constable Bhagyashri Jadhav attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver allegedly pushed her, causing her raincoat to get caught and dragging her until bystanders intervened. The driver has been detained, and a case has been registered against him.
General Motors reveals two futuristic Chevrolet Corvette concept cars - the electric CX and hybrid CX.R, featuring fighter jet-inspired designs, 2,000 horsepower powertrains, and innovative canopy openings at California's Quail automotive event
Auto sales rose 1.6%. They appear to have returned roughly to normalized spending after a surge in March and April as Americans attempted to get ahead of Trump's 25% duty on imported cars and parts and then a slump after that, according to Samuel Tombs, chief US Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics.
Brightcom Group has announced the launch of 'Brightcom Defence,' a new division dedicated to developing next-generation aerospace intelligence and autonomous aerial defense software. Approved by the company's Board, this strategic move aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing markets for advanced defense solutions. Brightcom Defence will focus on AI-powered UAV systems, mission simulation, cybersecurity, and real-time threat detection.
Tata Motors' financial stability is expected to mitigate the effects of its commercial vehicle business separation and the planned acquisition of Iveco. S&P Global Ratings believes the Iveco purchase will strategically expand Tata Motors' reach. The passenger vehicle division will be housed under Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd.
The Indian Army's Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II, mounted on a TATRA 6x6 vehicle, enhances minefield marking efficiency. This semi-automatic system erects pickets at adjustable intervals, rolling out ropes with minimal manual intervention. Capable of covering 1.2 kilometers per hour, it uses a linear motor for picket placement and supports up to 15 kilometers of fencing per run.
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new medical device for rheumatoid arthritis. The SetPoint System is an implant that stimulates the vagus nerve. It reduces inflammation by re-educating the immune system. Clinical trials show promising results with reduced joint pain and swelling. Experts express cautious optimism about this drug-free approach.
The Rajya Sabha was informed that service rendered by an employee in an autonomous body will be considered for gratuity in the central government, according to the Department of Pension and Pensioners' Welfare. This applies to employees with National Pension System (NPS) who resign with permission to join the government. The All India NPS Employees Federation has welcomed this move.
Mumbai local train commuters will soon experience improved services. Indian Railways plans to add more coaches to increase passenger capacity. New air-conditioned local trains are being procured for comfortable travel. Non-AC trains with automatic doors will be introduced by 2025 for enhanced safety. Focus is on expansion, safety, and station redevelopment.
A woman in India faced an unpleasant auto ride. The driver stopped before her destination. He questioned her job choice and salary. This incident sparked online debate. Another commuter in Bengaluru reported a driver browsing Instagram. He even slowed down to view an actress's profile. These incidents highlight the challenges of auto rides in India.
Perplexity AI's CEO, Aravind Srinivas, unveils Comet, an AI browser poised to automate recruiting and administrative roles. Comet can source candidates, manage emails, and schedule meetings, potentially impacting white-collar jobs. While some executives foresee job displacement, others view AI as a tool for augmentation, highlighting the evolving debate on AI's role in the workplace.
Tiana Death, a former Australian athletics champion, has revealed her diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis, a rare neurological condition. This announcement comes two years after she suffered a major seizure and collapse at home. The 24-year-old athlete experienced severe symptoms, including memory loss and the inability to walk or talk, before receiving the correct diagnosis and beginning treatment.
A Miami jury has found Tesla partially responsible for a fatal 2019 crash involving its Autopilot system, awarding over $240 million in damages. The jury determined Tesla's technology failed, contributing to the accident even though the driver admitted to distracted driving.
Senior industry executives believe the new US tariffs and penalties are unlikely to affect India's $7 billion auto parts exports to the US. They anticipate the levy to be a 'reciprocal tariff,' not applicable to automobile and component manufacturers. Since auto component exports already face a 25% duty in the US, the new levy maintains existing competitiveness.
United States and the European Union finalized a comprehensive trade deal that places a 15 per cent tariff on most EU goods entering the U.S., up from earlier proposed rates as high as 30 per cent.
The Election Commission of India is waiting for a response from the West Bengal government. The ECI wants more independence for the state's chief electoral officer. They suggested creating a separate election department. This would give the CEO more financial and administrative control. The state government is considering the ECI's request. They may speed up appointments and financial approvals soon.
IIT Guwahati researchers have engineered an eco-friendly composite material from 'Bambusa tulda' bamboo and biodegradable polymers, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics in automotive interiors. The composite exhibits high strength, thermal stability, and low moisture absorption. This innovative material, costing Rs. 4300 per kilogram, aligns with the 'Make in India' policy and contributes to sustainable development goals.
Melina Frattolin's death is ruled a homicide. Autopsy reveals she died by drowning. Luciano Frattolin, the girl's father, faces murder charges. He reported her missing, triggering an AMBER Alert. Police suspect he staged the disappearance. Melina's body was found in Ticonderoga, New York. Authorities seek public help for video evidence. The father legally entered the US for vacation.
Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner passed away during a family trip to Costa Rica. Authorities confirmed his death was due to accidental drowning. The Cosby Show star was found in the water. Bystanders attempted to rescue him. He was declared dead at the scene. Warner was known for his role as Theo Huxtable. His career included roles in various television shows.
LinkedIn sees a big jump in job applications, thanks to AI tools. People use ChatGPT to create resumes and bots to apply for jobs. Companies also use AI to screen candidates. This creates an 'applicant tsunami' and AI vs AI situation. Fake applicants are a growing concern. LinkedIn is fighting back with its own AI tools.
India's automobile exports surged 22% year-on-year in the April-June quarter, fueled by record passenger vehicle shipments and strong growth in two-wheelers and commercial vehicles. Passenger vehicle exports hit an all-time high, driven by demand in the Middle East, Latin America, and reviving neighboring markets. Maruti Suzuki led the PV export growth, while Hyundai Motor India also saw a significant increase.
Ather Energy co-founder Swapnil Jains simple bus ride has turned into a talking point across Bengaluru. He skipped a 175 auto fare for a 12 BMTC bus, calling it a protest against what he called stupid auto prices. His post praising BMTCs UPI payments and electric buses drew nods and nudges from fellow commuters. Many shared their hacks, gripes and support. One cheap ride has pushed Bengaluru to think again about daily travel costs.
A trial has commenced in Miami concerning a fatal Tesla crash. The jury will determine Tesla's responsibility in the death of a student. The incident occurred in 2019 when a Tesla Model S struck the student. Lawyers argue Tesla's Autopilot feature failed to prevent the accident. Tesla claims driver distraction was the sole cause.
The Regional Transport Authority of Bangalore Urban District has increased the minimum auto rickshaw fare from Rs 30 to Rs 36 for the first 2 km, effective August 1. Beyond 2 km, the fare will be Rs 18 per km. Night fares (10 pm to 5 am) will include an additional 50% of the regular fare. Auto meters must be re-verified and updated with the new rates by October 31.
In Srinagar, National Conference leaders, including Omar Abdullah, Farooq Abdullah, and Sakina Ittoo, defied restrictions to pay tribute at the Naqshband Sahib graveyard. Omar Abdullah scaled the graveyard gates after police sealed the road. Farooq Abdullah rode an auto-rickshaw, while Ittoo arrived on a scooter.
Huawei EV battery is making headlines with its groundbreaking claima solid-state battery that delivers over 3,000 km range on a single charge and can fully charge in just 5 minutes. This next-gen battery uses a nitrogen-doped sulfide electrolyte, offering 400500 Wh/kg energy density, far higher than current lithium-ion models. While still in the lab phase, this innovation could reshape the electric vehicle industry. If Huaweis patent turns into reality, it could eliminate range anxiety and cut d
In Virar, Palghar district, a video surfaced showing Shiv Sena (UBT) workers assaulting an auto driver, Raju Patwa, for allegedly making 'anti-Marathi' comments. The incident, sparked by an argument over overtaking, escalated into a language dispute where Patwa refused to speak Marathi and allegedly insulted the language and state.
A video went viral showing an auto-rickshaw driver allegedly being beaten by Shiv Sena (UBT) workers in Palghar for 'anti-Marathi' remarks. The incident sparked controversy over language issues in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (UBT) defended their actions, asserting they were teaching the driver a lesson for insulting the Marathi language and culture.
Gurgaon witnessed a tragic night on July 9. Shailendra, an autorickshaw driver, died after falling into an open sewer. Akshat Jain, a graphic designer, was electrocuted by a live wire in floodwaters. Shailendra's wife, Sumalata, is now left to raise their children alone. Both families have filed complaints citing negligence. Police have issued show-cause notices and are investigating the incidents.
The Enforcement Directorate in Gurugram seized assets worth crores in two separate cases. One case involves Ramprastha Promoters accused of cheating homebuyers. The other case concerns Amtek Auto and related entities for bank fraud. Properties attached include land, fixed deposits, and shares. This action follows previous attachments in the Amtek Auto case.
The death of tennis star Radhika Yadav is under investigation. A postmortem reveals four bullets struck her chest. Her father, Deepak Yadav, confessed to the crime. Initial reports suggest a dispute over Radhika's tennis academy as the motive. Police are exploring other angles, including personal relationships and social media activity. Radhika was a promising doubles player with a bright future.
Karnataka health officials are alarmed by a recent spike in sudden deaths among young adults, particularly in Hassan district, with 14 fatalities under 45 reported between May and June 2025. Six of the deceased were auto or cab drivers, prompting concerns about occupational health risks.
A significant fire erupted at a godown in Navi Mumbai's Turbhe Sector 20, near the APMC market, causing extensive damage to vehicles and infrastructure within a truck parking zone. Fire services responded swiftly to extinguish the intense flames that engulfed the terminal, reducing parked vehicles to ashes.
Dubai is gearing up to test self-driving vehicles. The Roads and Transport Authority partners with Pony.ai for this project. Pilot trials will begin later in 2025. A fully driverless commercial service is planned for 2026. This is part of Dubai's strategy for 25% autonomous trips by 2030. Pony.ai's advanced vehicles will use AI and sensors.
India has reserved its rights to impose retaliatory duties on the US concerning tariffs on auto parts, a procedural move under WTO safeguards. This action won't impede ongoing negotiations for the proposed India-US trade pact, aiming to significantly increase bilateral trade.
India has proposed retaliatory tariffs against the United States. This action is under World Trade Organisation norms. It responds to American tariffs on the automobile sector. The US tariffs impact $2.895 billion of Indian imports. India seeks consultations with the US after Washington increased tariffs. This is the second time India has proposed retaliatory tariffs on American goods.
India has proposed retaliatory tariffs against the US. This is in response to American tariffs on automobile parts. The US imposed tariffs on automobile parts from India. India claims these measures violate WTO norms. India's retaliatory tariffs aim to collect an equivalent amount of duty from US products. This development occurs amidst ongoing trade negotiations between India and the US.
Triumph India is offering free accessories worth Rs 7,600 on the Speed 400 until July 31, 2025, as part of its Modern Classic range anniversary celebration. The offer includes a lower engine guard, knee pads, windscreen, and tank pad.
Volkswagen India has announced the return of Volkswagen Autofest. This event allows customers to upgrade their vehicles. It offers exchange deals and finance schemes. Loyalty rewards and service packages are also available. Volkswagen has also launched the Golf GTI in India. The performance hatchback has a 2.0-liter engine. It delivers 265 hp and is priced at 53 lakh.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with auto industry leaders. They discussed the impact of renewed US tariffs on Canadian vehicles. The meeting addressed declining EV sales and supply chain protection. Canada previously responded to US tariffs with retaliatory measures. Trade talks with the US are ongoing with a July 21 deadline. Failure to reach a deal risks escalating tariffs.
President Trump accused Japan of unfair automobile trade practices, highlighting the significant trade deficit between the U.S. and Japan. He suggested Japan should increase imports of U.S. energy resources and other goods to balance the trade. Japan is currently trying to avoid potential tariffs on its auto industry, which accounts for a substantial portion of its exports to the U.S.
Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has ordered strict action against Bengaluru autorickshaws, including app-based services, for overcharging passengers. Citing instances of excessive fares, he directed the Transport Commissioner to cancel permits and file police cases against drivers who demand more than the government-fixed rates. The department has been asked to create an action plan to protect the public.