The Economic Times
Elections 2026Automobile / The Economic Times
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal invited global automobile companies to manufacture in India. He urged them to use India as a base to serve global markets. Goyal cautioned automakers about lack sheep not increasing localisation efforts. He stated that company-wise import and export data is being monitored. Leaders will attend the BRICS Leaders' Summit in India next week.
Prime Minister Modi urged the Indian auto industry to innovate for Viksit Bharat by 2047. Adviser Tarun Kapoor stressed accelerating the electric mobility transition for energy security. He warned of increasing restrictions on four-wheelers, especially in urban areas. Government reforms and incentives are boosting domestic manufacturing capabilities and EV adoption. Industry must prepare for eventual tapering of subsidies and policy changes.
India aims for one trillion dollars in exports this year, seeking automotive industry growth. The government encourages companies to increase local production and pursue international markets. Automakers must reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical components. New trade agreements and global partnerships will help expand the industry's presence. Investment in research and development will support manufacturing capacity for future mobility needs.
Automakers anticipate implementing calibrated price increases in upcoming months. High commodity costs are exerting pressure on manufacturer profit margins. The auto industry is preparing for a greater push towards electrification of mobility. A multi-fuel pathway including diesel and hydrogen is also highlighted. Pricing actions will be undertaken wisely to avoid market disruption.
India's automotive sector achieved record domestic sales across multiple segments in FY2025-26. Passenger vehicles and two-wheelers saw their highest-ever sales figures during this period. Exports also experienced significant growth, reflecting strong international demand for Indian vehicles. The industry fully transitioned to E20-compliant gasoline vehicles, supporting national energy goals. Electric vehicle registrations grew substantially, driven by government initiatives and industry collabo
As stated by officials, government subsidies for electric vehicles will phase out in the coming years. It is imperative for automobile companies to work together to enhance charging infrastructure, paving the way for comprehensive electrification. Manufacturers are strongly urged to escalate their research and development investments. Backed by government initiatives, India has emerged as a frontrunner in electric mobility, and the sector must brace for upcoming challenges and opportunities.
Maruti Suzuki's MD hopes for continued balance between regulations and affordability. This balance ensures safer and cleaner mobility remains accessible to Indian customers. Compressed biogas shows strong potential as a clean automotive fuel source. GST reforms have significantly boosted small car sales and affordability. Maruti Suzuki is also a leading exporter of electric vehicles from India.
Tata.Cars has launched its new Curvv Series X SUV Coup lineup. This new range offers multiple personas focusing on design and performance. Prices for the Curvv Series X start at an attractive Rs 9.99 lakh. Various personas like Pure X and Creative X+ include advanced technology and safety features. The top-tier Accomplished X and X+ variants add ADAS and premium audio systems.
Tata Curvv Series X: Whats new across 6 variants
India's auto exports showed mixed trends in August 2026, impacted by regional logistical disruptions. Domestic demand remained robust across most vehicle segments, driving overall retail volumes higher. Passenger vehicle wholesale volumes saw significant year-on-year growth, supported by strong retail demand. Two-wheeler sales also recorded substantial growth, with electric variants surging significantly. Commercial vehicle dispatches and farm equipment sales experienced double-digit and single-
Indian auto leaders and ministers emphasized deepening localization for global supply chain strength. They stressed owning more value chain components amid geopolitical uncertainties and resource crunches. Accelerating technological capabilities in semiconductors and batteries is now essential for independence. The industry must scale up design, development, manufacturing, and export of components from India. Policy measures and incentives are supporting this growth in volumes and know-how.
India's auto component sector aims for $200 billion turnover by FY30. Achieving this goal requires greater resilience against rising costs and shortages. The industry has seen significant growth over the past decade despite disruptions. Strong domestic demand and increasing exports will support future expansion. Companies must focus on capability building and technological advancements for sustained growth.
The auto sector must become stronger due to disruption in the next decade. Deep localization, people development, collective learning, and technology are key enablers. Companies should view workforce development as an investment, not a cost. Digital tools help anticipate and manage supply chain bottlenecks effectively. Cybersecurity and contingency plans are crucial for operational recovery.
The auto PLI scheme has attracted Rs 45,477 crore investment and created over 67,000 jobs. Government enhanced electric two-wheeler scheme outlay by Rs 1,000 crore to Rs 11,900 crore. Over 25 lakh electric two-wheelers and other vehicles have already received support. The industry crossed Rs 7.6 lakh crore in FY26 with exports reaching USD 24 billion. India aims to lead global mobility transition through innovation and advanced technologies.
Maruti Suzuki's MD urged deeper localisation for India's manufacturing growth. Global supply chains are reconfiguring, creating opportunities for India's reliable production. Government policies and domestic market scale support this strategic localisation effort. Indian products must match global quality standards, requiring supplier ecosystem strengthening. The industry must build flexibility and use technology for future resilience.
Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy urged the automotive industry to prioritize design and domestic value addition. He emphasized that India's electric mobility success extends beyond sales numbers. The minister called for bolder investments in cleaner and emerging technologies for global competitiveness. Government schemes are actively supporting domestic manufacturing and cleaner mobility transitions. India aims to lead the global mobility transition by 2047.
Despite strong August sales data reflecting robust demand for passenger vehicles, auto stocks faced a notable drop. Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors both reported impressive sales increases, while Hyundai Motor India celebrated its highest domestic sales ever in August. However, tractor sales diverged from this trend, as analysts expressed worries about future demand amidst the specter of price rises and increasing inflation.
India's automotive sector anticipates robust growth in FY27, driven by two-wheelers and passenger vehicles. August 2026 saw double-digit volume increases across most vehicle categories and manufacturers. Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor reported significant year-on-year volume gains in the two-wheeler segment. Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki posted strong sales figures for passenger vehicles during the period. Commercial vehicle dispatches also showed a notable increase, indicating a revival in the sector
In August, India's GST collections rose by 14.8%, totaling 2 lakh crore. The surge in bulk car sales by 36% indicates robust consumer enthusiasm, while the UPI system hit a record with 24.51 billion processed transactions, pointing to a rise in digital transactions. Additionally, power consumption surged by 12.9%, portraying an ongoing economic recovery following a solid June quarter.
Harsh Goenka has shared a computer-generated video depicting a chilling vision of future warfare involving AI systems, autonomous vehicles, bird-like drones and swarms of insect-sized machines. His post has renewed discussion around autonomous weapons and the growing role of artificial intelligence in military operations.
TVS Motor Companys total sales rose 21% year-on-year to 6.17 lakh units in August 2026. Two-wheeler EV sales surged 137% to 59,453 units, while international sales grew 29% and three-wheeler sales increased 34%.
Ashok Leyland reported a significant 38 percent year-on-year increase in total sales for August 2026. Domestic sales saw a substantial rise of nearly 43 percent during the same period. Medium and heavy commercial vehicle sales in the domestic market grew by 55 percent. This growth reflects strong performance in the commercial vehicle sector for the company. The company's total sales reached 21,038 units in August 2026.
Nissan India reported a 147% domestic sales increase in August. Sustained demand for Magnite and Gravite models boosted these volumes. The newly launched Tekton SUV also contributed to the automaker's strong performance. Nissan began exporting the Tekton to South Africa, Bhutan, and Nepal. These exports align with the company's global manufacturing and export strategy.
Effective September 1, auto-rickshaw fares in Dakshina Kannada district have seen a revision. Passengers will now start with a minimum charge of Rs 40 for the first 1.5 kilometers, followed by Rs 20 for each additional kilometer. The RTA has also adjusted waiting and luggage fees. Notably, rides during the nighttime from 10 pm to 5 am will be charged at 1.5 times the regular fare.
Faridabad-based auto-parts maker Victura Technologies is considering an India IPO that could raise up to $300 million through fresh shares and an offer for sale. The company has held preliminary talks with investment banks and may appoint advisers soon. The potential listing comes amid growing interest in Indias auto-components sector.
Bajaj Auto shares rose on Tuesday after the two- and three-wheeler maker reported a 28% year-on-year increase in August sales. Strong export growth drove the performance, with two-wheeler exports rising 53%. Commercial vehicle sales also grew 22%, while the companys April-August sales increased 29% year-on-year.
Manufacturers will slightly increase product prices over the next fortnight. This move aims to protect crucial festive season demand and sales. Companies are absorbing some cost increases to avoid larger price hikes. Smartphone and automobile makers are implementing these adjustments now. Further price revisions are unlikely until at least November end.
Mumbai auto-rickshaw and taxi minimum fares have been raised by the transport authority. Auto-rickshaw fares increased to twenty-seven rupees and taxi fares to thirty-three rupees. Drivers must recalibrate their electronic meters within three months from now. Revised fares will officially take effect starting September first this year. Over four lakh auto-rickshaws and fifty thousand taxis operate in the region.
Bengaluru flyover restrictions: Bengaluru traffic police will restrict vehicles on airport and electronics city elevated corridors. Two-wheelers and autorickshaws face round-the-clock bans on the airport road flyover. Goods vehicles will also be restricted during specific hours on several city flyovers. These new traffic rules aim to enhance road safety and reduce congestion. The restrictions will initially be implemented on a trial basis for assessment.
The Odisha government has ordered automatic salary deductions for state employees who fail to pay court-mandated alimony or maintenance to estranged wives and children. The amount will be transferred directly to beneficiaries, with cases to be tracked through the states HRMS system.
Maruti Suzuki Chairman RC Bhargava credits GST reforms for economic impetus and growth. The Indian car industry is projected to reach 6.3 million units by 2031. Small car market share is expected to grow significantly faster than previously observed. The company is expanding production capacity to meet anticipated demand increases. This expansion reflects the economy's substantial potential for future growth.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd is increasing its electric vehicle market share. The company has experienced a three-fold growth in electric vehicle bookings recently. Production capacity is currently limiting the company's ability to meet strong demand. A positive festive season is anticipated, potentially marking the industry's largest quarter. Factors like GST reforms and changing consumer preferences are driving this momentum.
General Motors will invest C$1.1 billion in Canada's auto sector after a tentative union deal. This investment includes adding a heavy-duty GMC Sierra truck to an Oshawa plant. The CAMI plant in Ingersoll will not be sold or closed while production is studied. New V8 engines and transmissions will also be produced in Ontario facilities. This agreement aims to bolster Canada's auto industry amid trade tariff concerns.
Indian automakers are expanding powertrain options as petrol's market share declines. New models offer electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid choices to consumers. CNG and diesel technologies also remain relevant in this evolving market. Carmakers are hedging bets due to buyer preference uncertainty. This complex transition offers customers diverse mobility pathways.
Passenger vehicle demand shows constructive growth, likely exceeding nine to ten percent year-on-year. Two-wheeler retail growth is estimated between eighteen and twenty percent during August. Commercial vehicles also posted steady trends with double-digit retail growth. Demand in southern markets led passenger vehicle sales due to early Onam. Improved supply chains and steady inquiry levels support broad-based retail momentum.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has halted RTO actions against drivers. Auto and taxi drivers will now receive one year to learn Marathi. This decision came after a meeting with union representatives on Thursday. Fadnavis stated that no coercive action would be taken during this period.
Mumbai's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a one-year learning period for drivers. This extension allows drivers time to acquire functional Marathi language skills. No action will be taken against drivers during this granted one-year period. Marathi classes and study materials will be provided to aid their learning efforts. This decision follows a recent transport department drive and driver organization meetings.
Alaska's manual salmon counting techniques are laborious and expensive. To improve efficiency, new computer vision algorithms are under development to automate the vital task of fish population monitoring. Initial AI solutions faced high error rates compared to human counters, but ongoing advancements have significantly enhanced their accuracy. Embracing automation holds the potential for widespread and efficient oversight of crucial fish stock levels.
CNH Industrial India will invest Rs 2,000 crore by 2030. This includes a new tractor plant near Greater Noida to double manufacturing capacity. Additional funds will support research and product development for global markets. The company aims to double its market share and enter the top four tractor makers.
The year 1866 marked a pivotal moment in communication history with Christopher Sholes' invention of the QWERTY keyboard layout. This groundbreaking design not only reshaped how people wrote but also facilitated quicker business transactions. The Sholes and Glidden typewriter emerged after its patent by E. Remington & Sons, showcasing the importance of the QWERTY system, which continues to endure amidst ongoing technological evolution.
India will amend regulations and introduce new rules within two months for manufacturers. The minister assured companies that their concerns were resolved during recent discussions. The government has simplified the Bureau of Indian Standards framework and approval processes. India aims to seed $50 billion in semiconductor and associated industries soon. This initiative is part of a long-term journey for India's manufacturing ecosystem.
Quote of the Day by Peter Coyote: Peter Coyote's famous quote, I spent ten years de-educating myself... challenges conventional assumptions about security and success. Drawing from his time in the 1960s counterculture movement, Coyote examines the tension between institutional conditioning and authentic independence. He argues that external safety nets can obscure innate resourcefulness, trapping people in comfortable compliance.

29 C