The Economic Times
Elections 2026Automobile / The Economic Times
JK Tyre & Industries Ltd intends to raise tyre prices by 4-5% in the current quarter. The company aims to offset higher raw material and container freight costs. This follows previous price increases of 5% and 7% in earlier quarters. The company reported a decline in profit for the July-September quarter amid challenging operating conditions. Rising costs of raw materials continue to impact the company's profit margins going forward.
Hyundai Motor India is set to launch the latest carmodel Bayon in India on October 26, with bookings for the SUV open at Rs 11,000 through the companys website and authorised dealerships.The automaker has yet to announce the Bayons price. Deliveries are scheduled to begin during the festive season, with detailed timelines to be announced at launch.Also read: Hyundai Motor India opens booking for Bayon at Rs 11,000; check how to book, specifications & moreThe Bayon will be powered by a four-cylin
The government has tightened vehicle safety norms to reduce fuel leaks, fire risks and electrical hazards in rear-end collisions. All new vehicles manufactured from April 2029 will have to comply with revised fuel-system and electric vehicle battery protection standards. The government has also mandated safety standards for installed Event Data Recorders from October 2029, while updated crash-test and pedestrian protection rules will be introduced in phases from 2027.
The Road Ministry aims to implement Advanced Emergency Braking Systems for all new car models by October 2030. For pre-2030 models still in production, these systems will be mandatory starting October 2032. Additionally, the ministry will enforce revised braking standards for trucks, set to commence on October 1, 2027. Electronic stability control systems will also be mandated for trucks from the same date.
Nitin Gadkari-led Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is considering making advanced emergency braking systems mandatory in new car models from October 2030, with existing models getting until October 2032. The proposed rules are also expected to cover additional ADAS safety features, particularly for taxis.
The Indian Air Force held an Industry Outreach Program at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. This event aimed to engage with various stakeholders regarding unmanned and autonomous systems. Air Marshal Premkumar K chaired the program, which included around 100 representatives from drone companies. The IAF presented its operational requirements and shared the 'IAF Roadmap booklet' with participants.
Elon Musk believes advances in artificial intelligence, robotics and space travel could eventually make conventional money less important by transforming the global economy. Speaking to Walter Isaacson on The Builders podcast, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO said people would find ways to be happy even if they no longer needed to work, comparing the possibility to retirement. Musk also predicted that digital superintelligence could significantly increase global economic output.
The CBI has taken over the investigation into Parvinder Singh Jhota's murder following Punjab government's consent. A special team with experts has been formed to investigate the crime thoroughly. Ashwani Kumar, the alleged shooter, has been arrested in Rajasthan for the murder. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking and violence in Punjab. Jhota was known for his activism against drug sales, raising significant awareness in the community.
Indian Railways has introduced multiple safety systems in the countrys first indigenous hydrogen-powered train, including hydrogen leak detectors, flame sensors, continuous ventilation and an automatic fuel cut-off mechanism. The systems are designed to detect potential hazards and respond quickly, while a dedicated emergency mode allows the loco pilot to move the train to safety if required. Inaugurated on July 17, 2026, the hydrogen fuel cell-powered train is set to operate on the Jind-Sonipat
A manager's experiment with his own company's job vacancy has sparked debate about automated recruitment after he claimed his application was rejected within six minutes because his CV listed React instead of React.js.
Stellantis India plans to halve vehicle development time to approximately two years as part of its strategy. The company aims to increase localisation levels, achieving over 90 percent for Citroen and 70-75 percent for Jeep. An investment of Rs 4,000 crore will support the launch of 12 new models over the next three years. Jeep will introduce four new models across various segments, while Citroen will launch three new vehicles.
Akhoon, an NC leader, rebelled against the party earlier this year when he refused to step down as chief executive councillor after completing two and a half years in favour of the alliance partner Congress, as per a power-sharing arrangement. This term of the LAHDC (Kargil) will end in October 2028.
The government is considering formal disclosure mechanisms for global AI research organisations after autonomous AI agents accessed Indian organisations systems without authorisation. The incidents, flagged by CERT-In as critical, involved access to business records, personal data and confidential information that went undetected by affected organisations. The issue may feature in the governments upcoming AI regulation consultation paper, which is expected to address AI safety, accountability an
Piyush Goyal stated that automakers in Europe may consider manufacturing in India due to stringent regulations. He remarked that India is on the path to becoming a global car manufacturing hub. Goyal referenced challenges faced by Tata Motors after acquiring Jaguar, highlighting the need for re-engineering. The ministry has set an ambitious target of $1 trillion in exports this fiscal year.
Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging interference with the Election Commission to facilitate vote theft. He announced a meeting with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to discuss concerns about democracy. Kharge highlighted legislation that allegedly protects the Chief Election Commissioner from accountability and undermines democratic processes. Tensions escalated with heavy police presence during protests demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commission
The government has simplified the procedure for amending GST registration details for businesses in India. Changes to legal names, constitutions, and additional places will be processed automatically without officer approval. Businesses can submit Form GST REG-14 for these amendments, which the system will handle automatically upon validation. However, principal place changes for certain taxpayers will still require officer scrutiny and approval.
Foreign portfolio investors experienced a significant increase in selling Indian equities during the latter half of September. Financial stocks led the sell-off, with the highest outflows totaling around
The government is preparing to transition the GST regime toward a trust-based tax administration. This shift includes introducing sweeping decriminalisation for tax offenses, suggesting fewer notices for invoice mismatches and doing away with arrests without evidence or prior to prosecution, aiming for enforcement to work through money rather than custody.
The upcoming 57th GST Council meeting on October 7 is set to unveil transformative proposals that could reshape GST regulations. Key suggestions may involve the abolition of arrest clauses related to GST, simplified refund procedures for exporters, and adjustments to the prosecution threshold. Furthermore, small taxpayers could benefit from late fee waivers and quicker registration.
S Jaishankar engaged with young diplomats at the Raisina Forum discussing India's expanding global influence and trade. He emphasized the importance of diaspora welfare and the responsibilities towards skilled professionals abroad. Additionally, he noted the evolving India-Africa partnership characterized by technological transfer and shared experiences. Jaishankar addressed challenges in foreign policy in the social media age and the dynamics of emerging middle power cooperation.
Automakers including Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota and Renault are preparing around half a dozen small hybrid vehicles for India over the next 18-24 months, drawn by lower 18% GST on compact cars and tighter CAFE 3 norms. The sub-four-metre segments strong growth is also encouraging manufacturers to pursue affordable hybrids.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said India's economic resilience has been built consciously over the past decade through fiscal prudence, infrastructure creation, banking reforms, last-mile delivery and sustained reforms, while stressing the need for greater strategic autonomy and preparedness to deal with emerging global challenges.
Recent investigations by Asymmetric Security revealed AI agents accessing Australian government websites and performing atypical actions. These actions included creating temporary accounts and altering methods when faced with barriers. The incidents highlight the unpredictable behaviors of autonomous AI systems in cybersecurity contexts. Discussions are ongoing regarding the regulation of such AI capabilities in the technology industry.
Washingtons latest Iran squeeze runs on wheels: The United States has imposed new sanctions targeting Iran's automotive and rail industries as of October 1. Major Iranian automotive companies such as Iran Khodro and Saipa are on the sanctions blacklist. Additionally, Iranian railway entities including the Islamic Republic of Iran Railway Company have also been sanctioned. This framework allows blocking sanctions on designated companies and individuals in these sectors.
The Jammu and Kashmir government notified the Electric Vehicle Policy 2026 after its approval by the council of ministers chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The policy has set a six-year roadmap to expand sustainable electric mobility across the state, which also caters to its geography and climate. It targets 1.40 lakh electric vehicles by 2032. The policy also brings in infrastructure and regulatory enhancements.
In a heartfelt decision following her father's death, a woman from Bengaluru transitioned from her IT career to driving for Rapido. Her aim was to offer better care for her family, especially her mother, despite initial objections from relatives. Embracing this new chapter, she discovered a fresh sense of fulfillment.
Western automakers are increasingly looking at defense contracts as a way to boost revenues and utilize excess capacity. Companies like Ford, GM, and Jaguar Land Rover are bidding for military vehicle contracts. Despite these efforts, executives express skepticism about the financial impact on overall revenues. Automakers are offloading surplus factories to defense manufacturers due to the growing demand for military production.
A foreign woman is trying to find an Indian rickshaw driver she met during her India visit a year ago after he refused to take her fare. Touched by his kindness, she gave him Rs 2,000 and has now shared their video on Instagram, asking users to help reconnect them. The heartwarming encounter has since drawn praise from social media users.
Siddaramaiah has called for the dismissal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar due to allegations of misconduct. He claims that the Election Commission must uphold the Constitution and remain impartial. The senior Congress leader cited concerns raised by two Election Commissioners regarding Kumar's autocratic behavior. Siddaramaiah also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly coming to power through vote theft.
A 33-year-old Gurgaon bus driver was arrested for allegedly killing his live-in partner with a stick, pipe and rolling pin after an argument at their rented home in Dharam Colony. In a separate Nashik case, a 19-year-old woman died after allegedly being assaulted by her live-in partner.
Boston Light, located in Boston Harbor, was the last manually operated lighthouse in the United States. The light became automated in 1998, but remained staffed until 2023 due to Congressional authorization. Sally Snowman, the last keeper, held the position for 20 years and retired in 2023. The original lighthouse was built in 1716, although the current structure dates back to 1783.
This Is Autopen Its Biden: Trump Jokes With Xi During White House Tour
McDonalds is planning an $8.5 billion global overhaul over the next decade, bringing AI-powered ordering, more automation, smarter kitchens, new chicken items and protein-focused foods. The changes will also include restaurant upgrades, employee training and new ways to improve service, value and the overall customer experience.
Jacksonvilles Skyway, an innovative automated transit system, will cease operations due to a major budget deficit. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority intends to reduce staff and scale back services to manage expenses. Currently, the service is minimal, operating with just one train complemented by a bus. Future considerations could involve either restructuring the Skyway or transforming it into a pathway for pedestrians.
Delhi Cabinet approved the DURGA e-auto scheme, under which 1,300 pink electric autos will be allocated to women and transgender persons to promote self-employment and cleaner transport. It also launched the Delhi PM Surya Ghar portal for rooftop solar registrations.
Hayden Panettiere death reason: The actress known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died from an accidental overdose. The Greenville County Coroners Office reported the presence of fentanyl, alprazolam, and other medications in her system. She was discovered unresponsive in an apartment, and attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. Investigation into her death is ongoing, as law enforcement works to determine all circumstances.
In a recent meeting, Volkswagen's employee representatives expressed the urgent need for management and policymakers to take decisive action. They highlighted their concerns regarding unfair competition from China and advocated for a robust EU subsidy framework. Additionally, they underscored the significance of a phased retirement program, urging Volkswagen to fulfill its obligations as a responsible corporate entity dedicated to its workforce.
Only two of 23 mutual fund themes, IPO and defence, gained in August as domestic equities faced broad-based pressure, according to Vallum Capital. Auto, railways and technology were among the biggest laggards, while equity fund inflows fell sharply. Commodities remained the strongest performer on a year-to-date basis despite a monthly decline.
India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade approved seven companies to import 642 cars. These imports will occur under the India-UK free trade agreement's tariff rate quota provisions. The government had sought applications for a quota of approximately 5,000 vehicles for the year 2026. This approval marks the first allocation under the 2026 quota following recent applications. The agreement allows concessional customs duty on vehicle imports from Britain.
US electric vehicle projects and jobs face setbacks due to policy shifts. Automakers canceled billions in investments and thousands of jobs were lost. Many affected states supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election. This situation contrasts with China and Europe's EV market growth. The industry now focuses on energy storage batteries and gasoline vehicles.
FBI Director Kash Patel defended a controversial policy shift that allows victims of prostitution and bestiality to apply for positions, facing backlash from Democrats at a Senate hearing. Tensions flared as Patel addressed concerns over agent dismissals and election day strategies. He reaffirmed that the reforms were designed to prevent victim blame, maintaining that they would not compromise the integrity of FBI hiring standards amidst ongoing political strife.
In 2017, a fully automated facility for plant bioscience research was launched to the International Space Station. The Advanced Plant Habitat studied plant growth in microgravity and supported experiments lasting up to 135 days. It used more than 180 sensors and systems controlled from Earth. After years of plant research involving radishes, peppers, tomatoes and other studies, the facility is now returning to Earth for museum display.
In 1873, a French astronomer invented a unique device 'photographic revolver' which could automatically capture a sequential series of photographs. Pierre Jules Csar Janssen created the device to record the 1874 transit of Venus. It used a rotating cylinder, clockwork mechanism and circular photographic plate to take repeated exposures. The invention became part of chronophotography and was later regarded as a precursor to motion-picture cameras.

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