Automobile / The Economic Times
Mahindra & Mahindra experienced a robust June, with overall auto sales climbing 14% to 78,969 units, driven by an 18% surge in utility vehicle sales domestically. Tractor sales also saw a significant boost, rising 13% to 53,392 units, fueled by strong domestic demand. This performance marks a record quarter for SUVs, highlighting the company's strong market position.
TVS Motor Company announced a robust 20% year-on-year surge in total sales, reaching 4,02,001 units in June. Two-wheeler sales climbed by 20%, while domestic two-wheeler sales saw a 10% increase. The company's three-wheeler segment experienced substantial growth at 42%, complemented by a significant 54% rise in total exports.
Omega Seiki Mobility (OSM) is emerging as a key player in India's rapidly growing commercial EV market, particularly in the electric three-wheeler segment. By leveraging the 'Make in India' policy and focusing on local production, OSM has achieved over 85% localization, minimizing reliance on imports.
Ramkrishna Forgings is venturing into forged wheel manufacturing with a new plant in Chennai, targeting an annual capacity of 228,000 wheels. With an estimated project cost of Rs 2,000 crore, the company anticipates significant revenue generation from this vertical, complemented by initial orders for assembled undercarriages from Indian Railways, projecting revenues of Rs 250-300 crore in two years.
Indian automakers are resisting the government's aggressive carbon emission reduction targets, deeming them unsustainable for the industry. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) proposes a more gradual 15% reduction instead of the planned 33% cut by 2027.
Ola Electric maintained its third position in India's electric two-wheeler market for the second consecutive month in June, registering 18,527 units. TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto continued to lead with 25.4% and 22.8% market share, respectively. The overall electric two-wheeler segment experienced a slight dip in sales, while Ather Energy saw a modest increase in market share to 14.4%.
The Nifty Auto index closed 0.56 per cent down at 23872.55.
The Nifty Auto index was trading 0.34 per cent down at 23925.8.
Indian stock markets witnessed a subdued opening on Monday. Both Sensex and Nifty started the day in the red. Financial and auto stocks experienced losses. This occurred despite positive global cues. Easing Middle East tensions and renewed foreign investment boosted sentiment. The BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty reflected this mixed market mood.
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.
The autopsy of 42-year-old actor Shefali Jariwala has been conducted, but the cause of death is currently undetermined, leading Mumbai police to register an accidental death report. Jariwala was declared dead on arrival at Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital after being rushed there by her husband, Parag Tyagi.
Bengaluru resident Lalit Gour's humorous take on the city's notorious traffic has gone viral. Frustrated by a 48-minute commute for just 3.6 km, he jokingly proposed a 'fourth law of motion': 'A Bangalore auto at rest will remain at rest.
The Maharashtra government is set to install automated weather stations (AWS) in every village, expanding from the current revenue circle level, under the Union Government's WINDS project. This initiative aims to provide accurate, localized weather data to assist farmers, aid in disaster management, and support agricultural research.
Mercedes-Benz India introduced the AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ and GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ models. These high-performance cars feature hand-built engines and Formula 1 inspired technology. The GT 63 4MATIC+ accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds. The GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ is even faster with enhanced power and carbon fibre parts.
Chinese automakers are aggressively targeting Africa's automotive market, particularly with electric and hybrid vehicles, due to export challenges in the U.S. and Europe. Companies like BYD and Chery are leveraging competitive pricing and viewing South Africa as a crucial entry point.
Neera Tanden testified before Congress regarding the use of autopen signatures on official documents, admitting she didn't know who ultimately authorized them. The House Oversight Committee is investigating President Biden's involvement in major decisions and whether others are using the autopen on his behalf. Several other Biden team members, including his former White House doctor, will also testify.
Abu Dhabi initiates its first autonomous drone parcel delivery test in Khalifa City. LODD's drone successfully delivered a package from a post office. This trial is part of Abu Dhabi's plan to integrate drones into its transport network. ADIO leads the project with support from LODD and 7X. The goal is a secure aerial delivery framework.
The move is expected to benefit over 70 million subscribers of the Employees Provident Fund Organisation who will not get up to Rs 5 lakh of advance claims as against Rs 1 lakh earlier within three days without any human intervention, ensuring quick turnaround and transparency. The move is aimed at enhancing ease of living for EPFO subscribers, the ministry of labour and employment said on Tuesday.
Amazon CEO AI workforce warning: Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has cautioned employees about upcoming workforce reductions due to the increasing integration of artificial intelligence, particularly impacting white-collar positions. As Amazon expands its AI capabilities, fewer individuals will be needed for existing corporate roles, leading to a leaner corporate workforce. Jassy encourages employees to adapt and embrace AI to remain relevant within the company.
Bengaluru residents faced issues with autorickshaw drivers after bike taxi ban. Drivers overcharged and refused passengers. Bengaluru Traffic Police took action. They booked over 1,000 cases in the west division. Fines collected reached Rs 4.9 lakh. The drive targeted areas like Majestic and MG Road. Overcharging and uniform violations were common. Plainclothes officers also caught offenders.
The automaker's decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump's imposition of a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts. A Toyota spokesperson, however, denied the tariff directly influenced the price increase.
In Mizoram's Lawngtlai, auto-rickshaw driver Lalhmingmuana has been lauded for his honesty. He returned 17 lakh to a Myanmar businessman who accidentally left the money in his vehicle. Discovering the cash after dropping the passenger at a hotel, Lalhmingmuana promptly returned it without expecting a reward.
Tesla's long-awaited robotaxi service is tentatively set to launch in Austin, Texas, on June 22, pending safety checks. This launch is significant for Tesla's future in the self-driving market, though challenges and regulatory hurdles remain. Initial operations will involve a limited number of driverless Model Y vehicles in a geofenced area, with remote supervision.
Bengaluru residents report auto drivers are using rigged meters. Commuters are facing inflated fares and unexplained 'congestion fees'. Some drivers refuse to use meters altogether. Passengers express frustration online about overcharging. They question why authorities target bike taxis instead of addressing auto fare issues. Many feel helpless and demand action against unfair practices. The Transport Department needs to intervene.
Barack Obama cautioned that the U.S. is nearing the normalization of behaviors seen in autocratic regimes, drawing parallels to Hungary's political model. He emphasized the importance of facts and rebuked falsehoods about the 2020 election, urging a collective defense of democratic norms. Despite his concerns, Obama expressed optimism, encouraging action and coalition-building to address injustice and authoritarian tendencies.
Geoffrey Hinton, the 'Godfather of AI,' predicts AI will surpass human capabilities. He says AI will soon replace routine office jobs. Plumbing remains a safe career choice for now. Paralegals and call center workers face high risk. Hinton warns of mass job losses and worries about the impact on people's sense of purpose. Healthcare may better adapt to AI changes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.