Welcome to Gulf News, your premier destination for comprehensive coverage and insights into the dynamic landscape of the Gulf region and beyond. As a trusted source of news and information, we pride ourselves on delivering timely updates, in-depth analysis, and compelling stories that resonate with our diverse audience.
From breaking news to in-depth features, business trends to cultural happenings, sports highlights to technological advancements, Gulf News covers it all with accuracy, integrit
India Yamaha Motor has revised prices of the XSR 155, a little over three months after the motorcycle was launched in India. While the motorcycle continues to be offered in a single variant, the price revision differs depending on the colour option selected. At the same time, Yamaha has expanded the colour lineup with the introduction of a new Metallic Black shade, taking the total number of available options to five.
The newly introduced Metallic Black joins the Metallic Blue variant in featuring a gold-finished USD front fork. The Metallic Black version is priced at Rs 1.59 lakh (ex-showroom).
At launch, the XSR 155 was priced uniformly at Rs 1.50 lakh (ex-showroom) across all colour options. Following the revision, the Metallic Blue shade remains unchanged in price, making it the most affordable variant in the range.
Colour Options
New Price (ex-showroom)
Metallic Blue
Rs 1.50 lakh
Vivid Red
Rs 1.53 lakh
Metallic Grey
Rs 1.57 lakh
Metallic Greyish Green
Rs 1.59 lakh
New Metallic Black
Rs 1.59 lakh
The Greyish Green Metallic colour sees the highest increase of Rs 9,000 and now sits at the top of the range alongside the new Metallic Black. The Metallic Grey version has received a Rs 7,000 hike and is now priced at Rs 1.57 lakh, while the Vivid Red variant has gone up by Rs 3,000 and now costs Rs 1.53 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
The XSR 155 shares its platform and major components with the Yamaha R15 and MT-15. It is powered by a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 18.1 bhp and 14 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox and equipped with an assist and slipper clutch. Yamaha also offers Cafe Racer and Scrambler kits for the XSR 155 at an additional cost.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/pO6RLsF
via IFTTT
Tata continued its strong start to the 2026 calendar year in February, holding onto the no 2 position, albeit by a small margin compared to last month. Mahindra remained more or less consistent with sales of over 60,000 units in the domestic market for the second month straight, while both Hyundai and Kia reported personal best wholesale numbers for the month. Maruti Suzuki, meanwhile, saw its sales growth fall flat in the month, with sales in the mini and compact segments shrinking.
Maruti Suzuki witnessed domestic passenger vehicle wholesales fall flat in February 2026, reporting a 0.13 per cent year-on-year growth. Total domestic wholesales stood at 1,61,000 units in the month as the brand failed to build momentum in the hatchback segments though demand for utility vehicles remained high. Sales in February 2025 stood at 1,60,791 units.
Sales in the Mini and Compact segments shrank from a cumulative 83,168 units last year to 76,624 units - sales in the compact segment dropped to 66,386 units viz-a-viz 72,942 units last year. Sales in the Mini segment - Alto & S-Presso - were steady at 10,238 units in 2026 as against 10,226 units last year. Despite this, the Dzire (Compact segment) was Maruti’s best-selling model for the month with over 19,300 units sold. The Brezza and Ertiga followed it, with both selling over 17,800 units.
Utility vehicle sales remain the brand's peak, with total sales of 72,756 units, up from 65,033 last year. Van sales also remained consistent with 11,620 units sold compared to 11,493 units last year.
Strong exports, however, saw the company end the month with overall wholesales of 2,13,995 units as against 1,99,400 units in February last year. Exports in Feb 2026 stood at 39,155 units up from 25,021 units year-on-year.
Tata Motors
Domestic Sales: 62,329 units
Growth: 34%
Tata Motors continued to hold onto its no 2 position in CY2026 with domestic wholesales of 62,329 units - a 34 per cent growth from 46,435 units last year. The Nexon remained the company’s best-selling car for the second month in a row, with sales of 19,430 units followed by the Punch which sold 18,748 units. The Nexon also retained its position as the best-selling car in the Indian market in the month ahead of the Maruti Suzuki Dzire.
Cumulative sales for the month, including exports, stood at 63,331 units - up 35 per cent year-on-year, while cumulative EV sales stood at 8,385 units - up 57 per cent year-on-year.
Mahindra & Mahindra
Domestic Sales: 60,018 Units
Growth: 19%
Mahindra reported a second straight month of over 60,000 units sold in the domestic market in CY2026. The Indian SUV maker reported domestic wholesales of 60,018 units - a 19 per cent growth over February 2025. Total sales, including exports, stood at 60,685 units in the month.
Hyundai remained down in fourth place for February, though the company reported its best-ever domestic sales for the month. The company reported domestic wholesales of 52,407 units - a 9.8 per cent growth over February 2025. Exports, meanwhile, grew 24.8 per cent year-to-year to 13,727 units while cumulative sales stood at 66,134 units - the best ever in February.
The Creta remained the carmaker’s best-selling model with overall sales of over 17,900 units in the domestic market.
Toyota
Domestic Sales: 30,737 units
Growth: 16%
Toyota continued its steady sales growth in CY2026 with a second month of 30,000-plus units sold. Domestic wholesales in February 2026 stood at 30,737 units - a 16 per cent growth over 26,414 units sold in the same month last year. Exports, meanwhile, grew a stronger 65 per cent, rising from a low 2,000 units in Feb 2025 to 3,297 units last month. Cumulative sales stood at 34,034 units - up 20 per cent year-on-year.
Kia also continued to report double-digit sales growth in 2026, reporting its best-ever sales for the month in the process. Kia reported wholesales of 27,610 units - a 10.3 per cent growth over last year. The company said that key drivers for its sales growth in the Indian market were strong demand for models such as the Sonet, which is one of its best sellers, as well as the Carens Clavis and the new Seltos.
Honda Cars
Domestic Sales: 5,629 units
Growth: 0.23%
Honda reported flat sales in the month of February with 5,629 units sold in the domestic market. The carmaker reported a growth of 0.23 per cent over Feb 2025, when it reported 5,616 units sold. As with January, exports continued to remain lower than year-ago levels with 1,583 units shipped as against 4,707 units last year.
JSW MG Motor India
Domestic Sales: 4,957 units
Growth: 24%
JSW MG Motor India reported a 24 per cent growth in domestic wholesales with 4,957 units sold. The carmaker said that it witnessed steady demand across its EV and internal combustion portfolios - the latter of which is set to be strengthened with the launch of the new Majestor SUV that was unveiled last month.
Renault
Sales: 3,495 units
Growth: 31%
Renault India reported cumulative wholesales of 3,495 units in February 2026 - a 31 per cent year-on-year growth over the same month last year. Sales in Feb 2025 stood at 2,676 units. Renault attributed the strong growth to continued demand for the refreshed Kiger and Triber. The carmaker said that the sales of the Triber were up 57 per cent year-on-year in Feb 2026.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/F2hEkbm
via IFTTT
Mercedes-Benz India has reintroduced the V-Class in India at an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.40 crore (introductory). The luxury MPV returns to our market after being discontinued in 2022; however, it received a global update in 2023. The India-spec model is offered in the extra-long wheelbase configuration, measuring over 5.3 metres in length with a wheelbase of 3,430mm.
Alongside the price announcement, the carmaker confirmed that the new V-Class will be assembled locally at its Chakan facility. This follows the launch of the India-made GLS Maybach earlier this year in January. Bookings for the V-Class open today, with deliveries slated to commence by the end of March 2026.
New Mercedes-Benz V-Class: Exterior
The current V-Class is a facelift of the previous-generation model that was earlier sold in India and is offered exclusively in AMG Line trim. On the outside, it gets a larger grille with integrated three-pointed star elements, flanked by new dual-barrel Multi-Beam LED headlamps. The profile features updated alloy wheels, while the rear sees revised tail-lamp internals. The version launched in India comes with the AMG Line exterior package, which adds sportier bumpers and an illuminated grille surround.
The new V-Class measures 5,370mm in length, 1,928mm in width and 1,880mm in height, while the wheelbase stands at 3,430mm.
New Mercedes-Benz V-Class: Interior
Coming to the interior, the cabin sees significant upgrades over the previous model. The earlier analogue instrument cluster and infotainment system have been replaced by a fully digital instrument display and the latest MBUX touchscreen infotainment setup. The V-Class continues with a three-row layout, featuring lounge-style captain seats with ottomans in the second row.
Both the front and second-row seats are electrically adjustable and come with memory functions, while the second-row seats also offer heating and massage features. Wireless charging pads are integrated into the centre armrests of the lounge seats. The third-row seats include ventilation and can be removed entirely from the vehicle.
The seating layout is built around a single rail system for the second and third rows, allowing flexibility in configuration. The second-row seats can be moved further back to increase legroom, while the third-row seats can be repositioned to face rearwards, creating a conference-style arrangement. Three-point seatbelts are integrated into the seat frames for the second and third rows.
In terms of features, the V-Class is equipped with powered sliding rear doors, a powered tailgate, a Burmester surround sound system, 64-colour ambient lighting, multi-zone climate control with a dedicated rear zone, a 360-degree camera system, hands-free parking assist, and a suite of ADAS functions. The MPV also comes with Mercedes’ Airmatic air suspension.
New Mercedes-Benz V-Class: Engine
Under the hood, the V-Class is now offered with a petrol engine option in the V 300 variant. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 223 bhp. The diesel option, also badged as the 300, uses a 2.0-litre engine punching out 233 bhp. Both versions come paired with a 9-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox.
New Mercedes-Benz V-Class: Rivals
In India, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class competes with models such as the Lexus LM (Rs 2.15 crore - Rs 2.69 crore), Toyota Vellfire (Rs 1.20 crore - Rs 1.30 crore), while also locking horns with the all-electric MG M9 (Rs 70.90 lakh).
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/INpqwPi
via IFTTT
Mahindra has updated the XEV 9e electric SUV’s line-up with a new Cineluxe Edition priced from Rs 29.35 lakh (ex-showroom, excluding charger). Based on the fully-loaded Pack 3 trim, the new Cilelux Edition costs about Rs 1.15 lakh less than the top-spec 9e (Rs 30.50 lakh) while getting some cosmetic changes and feature updates. Bookings for the Cineluxe Edition commence from March 2 with deliveries to start from March 10, 2026.
On the outside, the Cineluxe Edition is offered in two paint finishes - Satin Black and Satin White, while the interior is finished in black leatherette upholstery with brown accents. The more notable updates come in the form of the features, with the Cineluxe Edition getting some additional features borrowed from the new XEV 9S. These include the new Pet & Camp climate control modes as well as the more comprehensive 360 Secure Pro vehicle monitoring system and a ‘Custom’ drive mode to tailor the individual vehicle settings to the driver’s tastes.
Other new features include a new NFC key, proximity-based vehicle locking & unlocking, a continuous digital video recorder, and a new user profile function.
Mechanically, the Cineluxe Edition is unchanged over the top-sped XEV 9e Pack 3, getting the same 79 kWh battery offering up to 656 km of claimed range. Power output, too, is unchanged at 282 bhp and 380 Nm.
Interestingly, Mahindra is not offering the option of a 7.2 kWh wallbox charger with the Cineluxe Edition. Buyers can either buy the SUV without a wallbox charger or pay an additional Rs 75,000 for the 11.2 kW AC wallbox unit.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/0Q7bFWU
via IFTTT
Car repair bills often jump when a claim includes a depreciation deduction on replaced parts. Depreciation reflects age and wear so that the payable amount can fall even after an approved claim, especially for plastic and rubber items.
This is why zero-dep is often considered at renewal, particularly when a policyholder has comprehensive insurance for own-damage protection.
This blog explains what zero-dep is, what it changes, why renewal suits it, and how it affects settlement.
What is Zero-Dep Cover?
Zero-dep cover, also called nil depreciation cover, is an add-on that can reduce depreciation on certain parts replaced during an admissible own-damage claim. Many policies apply higher depreciation to plastics, rubber and fibre, which can lower the insurer’s share of the part cost.
With zero-dep, depreciation on eligible parts is reduced as per the add-on wording. It applies to the own-damage section of the policy and does not change third-party liability cover. Insurers may also set eligibility rules, such as limits linked to vehicle age or the number of claims.
What Zero-Dep Cover Actually Changes in a Policy
When a claim is processed, the insurer approves repairs and then applies deductions to reach the payable amount. Depreciation is one deduction that reduces the approved cost of replaced parts, and zero-dep mainly changes this step by lowering depreciation on specified items when the claim is allowed.
It does not remove deductibles, policy excess, exclusions, or the need to follow survey and repair approvals. Other charges are still handled as per policy terms and assessment.
Why Renewal is the Right Time to Add Zero-Dep
Renewal is usually the simplest time to add this cover because the add-on can begin from day one of the new car insurance policy period. It is also when IDV, add-ons, and eligibility rules are reviewed, including conditions linked to vehicle age.
Renewal helps the premium reflect the selected add-ons for the full year and avoids mid-term endorsement changes. Adding zero-dep at renewal keeps the coverage terms clear for the year ahead.
How Zero-Dep Cover Impacts Claim Settlement
Claim settlement depends on assessment, admissibility, and the deductions allowed by the policy. Without zero-dep, depreciation on eligible parts can increase the amount paid by the insured at the workshop. With zero-dep, that depreciation deduction is reduced for specified parts, which may lower out-of-pocket payment in cashless and reimbursement claims.
In a cashless claim, the invoice typically shows the split between insurer payment and customer payment. Compulsory deductible, voluntary deductible, and non-payable items under exclusions can still apply.
Parts Commonly Affected By Depreciation
Depreciation is often applied to materials treated as wear-linked, so deductions show up most often on certain categories of parts.
● Plastic bumpers, trims, and interior panels are often depreciated.
● Rubber seals, hoses, and beading are often depreciated.
● Fibre or composite parts used in panels and fittings
● Tyres and tubes can be depreciated, often linked to wear limits.
● Batteries and selected electrical items may be depreciated, as per the schedule.
● Paint and refinishing materials may be adjusted during the repair assessment.
What Zero-Dep Does Not Cover
Zero-dep reduces depreciation on eligible parts, but it does not override exclusions or pay for every repair-related cost. These items are commonly outside the scope, depending on the policy terms.
● Wear-and-tear and mechanical breakdown are not covered unless linked to an insured event.
● Consumables are excluded unless separately covered, such as oils, coolant, clips, and fasteners.
● Compulsory deductible and any voluntary deductible still apply.
● Delays, loss of use, and consequential loss are usually not payable.
● Items beyond schedule limits, including restricted tyres or batteries, may not be paid.
● Claims may be affected by breaches, such as an invalid licence or undeclared usage.
Conclusion
Zero-dep cover is a renewal add-on that reduces depreciation on eligible replaced parts in an admissible own-damage claim. It can help bring the insurer’s payable amount closer to the cost of parts that often face higher depreciation, while deductibles and exclusions remain.
Renewal is a sensible time to add it because the cover details and eligibility are reviewed before the new period begins. Reviewing the add-on terms helps keep expectations aligned with settlement.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/WMQrxaX
via IFTTT
Toyota and Lexus India have announced a voluntary recall over a potential transmission control system malfunction. The recall affects 969 units of the Toyota Land Cruiser and 117 units of the Lexus LX. The impacted Land Cruiser units were manufactured between September 4, 2024, and September 30, 2025, while the affected Lexus LX vehicles were produced between March 6, 2025, and September 29, 2025.
In an official statement, the manufacturers said, “The recall campaign aims to reprogram the Transmission Control Computer software, which controls the Transmission Performance. As of Feb 18, there have been no cases reported in the Indian market”
The affected SUVs are equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission that uses linear solenoids to regulate gear shifts. Under certain driving conditions, a failure of these solenoids may not be properly communicated between the transmission control unit and the engine ECU. This could lead to over-revving in specific gears, potentially causing transmission damage and a loss of motive power at higher speeds. In extreme cases, damage to the transmission housing could also result in fluid leakage.
The LC300 and Lexus LX are built on the same platform and share mechanical components, including the twin-turbo V6 diesel engine paired with a 10-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. The electronically controlled transmission relies on linear solenoids to manage gear changes, which are central to the issue being addressed under this recall.
As part of the voluntary recall, authorised dealerships of the respective brands will contact owners of the affected vehicles to provide further details. Customers can also get in touch with their nearest authorised dealership for additional information or clarification regarding the recall.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/OhBuq60
via IFTTT
New test mules of what looks to be the Tata Tiago EV have been spied testing on Indian roads. The images of the heavily camouflaged testmules suggests that Tata could be readying a substantial overhaul for its entry-level EV, which was launched in India in 2022.
The heavy camouflage suggests that the EV is expected to receive a notable styling overhaul, and one could expect some design influence from the facelifted Altroz that launched last year. The overall silhouette does not look too different from the current model, so the basic bodyshell is expected to remain unchanged. The heavy camouflage hides any discernible details on the nose, though we do expect the hatchback to get a fresh bumper design as well as tweaks to the grille.
What can be confirmed are the new headlamps with integrated LED DRL eye brows and projector lighting elements - a step up from the current model’s LED reflectors.
Previous images of the rear of some test mules showcased a virtually unchanged tail section replete with the petal-shaped tail lamps, though these could just be place holders. Many early test mules of the Punch facelift have sported the tail lamps from the pre-facelift micro-SUV, with only later test mules getting the new connected lighting setup. A similar case could also be made for the Tiago EV.
The Tiago & Tiago EV received a notable update last year with styling tweaks and new features.
The Tiago EV did receive a notable update to the interior last year, including the addition of a 10.25-inch central touchscreen on top variants. The latest upgrade could thus see more minor changes when it comes to the cabin, though the hump on the camouflaged roof suggests the hatchback could be getting a sunroof.
The 2025 updates added a new 10.25-inch touchscreen, new digital instrument cluster and two-spoke steering with an illuminated logo to the interior.
Mechanically, Tata could go for similar upgrades as seen on the Punch EV - replacing the existing battery pack options with newer, more energy-dense units offering greater energy storage capacity and providing more usable range. A move to newer-gen electric motors could also make the EV more powerful as well. Charging speeds could also be upped from the current 25 kWh peak DC fast charge rate.
As for a launch, the updated Tiago EV could make its debut in the second half of the year, or Tata could look to unveil the model early next year at the next Bharat Mobility Expo.
In a definitive nod to his engineering-led transformation of the BMW Group, Oliver Zipse has been officially named the 2026 World Car Person of the Year.
The announcement comes as Zipse prepares to conclude his tenure as Chairman of the Board of Management, a role he has held since 2019. The award, voted on by a jury of 98 international automotive journalists (including India) recognises Zipse’s "technology-open" strategy and the successful launch of the Neue Klasse, hailed as the most significant technical overhaul in BMW's history.
Zipse, who joined BMW in 1991, beat high-profile finalists David Craig (General Motors) and Tisha Johnson(Slate) for the top honour. The jury cited Zipse’s ability to maintain record profitability while navigating the industry’s shift toward electrification and digitalisation.
"To me, this is much more than just an award for my tenure as BMW’s CEO: it is a recognition of our strategic course and the courage we have shown to pursue the company’s biggest project ever, the Neue Klasse," said Oliver Zipse, 2026 World Car Person of Year.
While many competitors pivoted exclusively to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Zipse’s leadership was defined by "technology openness" - developing excellence across multiple powertrain types simultaneously.
Jens Meiners, World Car Awards Chair Emeritus, noted that this strategy has been "fully validated by the market," stating that the current BMW lineup is "just about the best it has ever been."
Past winners of this award include BYD’s Stella Li (2025) and F1 engineer Adrian Newey (2024).
As Zipse’s tenure draws to a close, he leaves the BMW Group in a position of high financial security and technical readiness. The Neue Klasse serves as his parting legacy - a platform designed to define the brand’s identity for the next decade.
The World Car Person of the Year is the first of seven categories to be announced as part of the annual Road to the World Car Awards, which culminates at the New York International Auto Show (April 1st). The program is supported by Brembo, AISTATIC Research & Consult, NYIAS, KPMG and Newspress.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/Dng6cJL
via IFTTT
Bajaj Auto is getting ready to launch a new motorcycle brand in the 125-250 cc segment in the next few months, which is critical to the company’s growth. Speaking to a news channel in a television interview, Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto Ltd. Also said that the company will introduce upgrades to several Pulsar models this year, along with new products under a new motorcycle brand.
“There will also be at least one new brand, if not more than one, between now and the festive season, in this space, by which I mean the 125-250 cc space, that is so critical to our portfolio. And I think that will help us cast the net wider in this catchment area of 125-250 cc. Fingers crossed. Let’s hope new brands and new products work well for us,” said Rajiv Bajaj.
Bajaj Auto is India’s largest exporter of motorcycles, and for the period of April 2025 to January 2026, the company’s exports showed strong growth of 16 per cent to 16,14,601 units. Domestic sales volumes for the same period stood at 19,41,855 units. In January 2026, Bajaj Auto posted robust sales in both domestic and export markets. Domestic two-wheeler sales in January 2026 grew by 25 per cent, with 2,14,727 units, while overseas motorcycle sales grew 22 per cent to 1,91,568.
In November 2025, Bajaj Auto completed its 100 per cent acquisition of Pierer Bajaj AG, with the company being renamed Bajaj Auto International Holdings AG and KTM’s former parent company Pierer Mobility AG becoming Bajaj Mobility AG. With this acquisition Bajaj is now the sole owner of KTM.
Bajaj will continue to manufacture small-displacement KTM and Husqvarna models at its Chakan plant in India, while consolidating and steering a new global product strategy. The acquisition covers the entire Pierer Mobility portfolio, including KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/82aZLIe
via IFTTT
Renault India will announce prices for the new Duster on March 17, 2026. Unveiled in India in January, the new Duster is only the second generation of the SUV to make it to our market, though globally it's now in its third generation. The India-spec SUV sits on an India-specific derivative of the global CMF-B platform that Renault calls the Renault Group Modular Platform for the domestic market. It will also underpin Nissan’s upcoming compact SUV - the Tekton.
On the design front, the India-spec Duster looks as boxy and imposing as its European cousin, though there are changes to the fascia and rear end. The headlamps get simpler LED DRL lightguides while the grille features a ‘Duster’ wordmark instead of Renault. The bumper also gets a sleeker design compared to the chunky unit on the global Duster. Down the sides, the biggest differences over the global model are the lack of cladding extending up to the badge on the front doors, while at the rear, the India-spec SUV gets its own unique tail lamp design replete with a lightbar.
Inside, the India-spec SUV has been tailored to provide a more upmarket feel compared to its European cousin’s more utilitarian looks. The cabin looks to share much with the international-spec Boreal SUV - the Duster’s larger 7-seater cousin with a layered design and notable use of soft touch materials.
In terms of tech, top variants will get features such as LED headlamps, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, electric adjust and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and an ADAS suite with 17 assistance functions.
Mechanically, Renault has confirmed three engine options for India. A base 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol unit developing 99 bhp and 160 Nm, a more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol mill, good for 158 bhp and 280 Nm and a strong hybrid powertrain pairing a 1.8-litre engine with two electric motors and 1.4 kWh battery to offer up to 1000 km of range. Gearbox options include a 5-speed manual for the 1.0 turbo, a 6-speed manual & automatic for the 1.3 turbo and an 8-speed automatic for the strong hybrid.
For now, expect Renault to only announce prices for the turbo-petrol variants. The carmaker has previously confirmed that the hybrid will only arrive around the festive season later this year.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/e5JYwfd
via IFTTT
Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT) is an Indian MNC and a strong player in the global Off-Highway Tyre (OHT) segment with presence in 163 countries worldwide, offering mobility solutions in the field of Agriculture, Construction, Mining and other industrial applications.
As a part of BKT’s Vision 2030, the company announced a range of initiatives to achieve a 2.2X revenue growth over the FY25 levels, taking the total revenue to Rs23,000 Crores. Fresh investments are planned to support manufacturing capacity expansion, advancement in R&D capabilities and strengthening of the distribution network.
A sizeable chunk of this growth is to come from BKT’s foray into the Consumer Tyre Market, essentially the On-Highway Tyres. On the two-wheeler side, two new tyre lines were announced - BKT ZENOVA and BKT THYROS. BKT ZENOVA is designed for city commuting, promising enhanced comfort, smooth handling, and dependable grip for everyday urban riders. BKT THYROS on the other end, is engineered for a dual-purpose usage including on and off-road riding, offering confidence and control across mixed terrain conditions.
For the Commercial Vehicle On-Road segment, BKT will be launching BKT m.Loadxpert and BKT Milexpert RG in the Apr-Jun’26 period. Thes tyres have been developed for high-demand On-Highway applications such as cement transport, construction logistics, and regional cargo movement across the country. BKT also announced special efforts towards developing and promoting the Tyre Retreading industry for enhanced product usage life and its contribution towards sustainability efforts.
A renewed customer focus was also emphasised by BKT with special measures being undertaken for enhanced service responsiveness and speedy complaint resolutions. BKT also announced introduction of a ‘Journey Assistance Program’ for the two-wheeler riders and a ‘Save the Casing Program’ for Commercial Vehicle Radials segment. Both, targeted towards the end tyre users, as a measure of establishing a direct connect with the customer setting the foundation for the B2C business.
Launch of a multimedia brand campaign starring Ranveer Singh as the brand ambassador was also announced to compliment the BKT’s entry in the B2C business with the theme –‘Elevate Your Drive’.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/GXlxDLW
via IFTTT
