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Is this the beginning of the end of Diesel vehicles in our country? A Niti Aayog report released on Tuesday advocated gradual removal of Diesel vehicles from the roads while making a gradual shift towards cleaner fuels and technologies like CNG, hybrids and electric vehicles. The report says the ultimate aim is fully shift to zero emission vehicles.
Diesel cars still account for fair share of sales in some popular segments.
The roadmap for net zero pathway also includes tightening of Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms and the aim according to the report is to achieve net zero transport emissions by 2070. The report says that fossil fuels still account for energy needs of 80% transport vehicles, a number which needs to come down. It talks about adopting flex fuel vehicles and increased Bio-CNG blending.
The report states, “The transition strategy should begin with the phased elimination of polluting diesel vehicles and the adoption of lower-emissions technologies such as CNG, hybrids, and electric vehicles.” Increased adoption of electric vehicles will go a long way in achieving the goals while usage of fossil fuels will need to reduce at the same time.
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Come 1st April 2027, the emission standards for BS6 vehicles will be shifted from MIDC (Modified Indian Driving Cycle) to WLTP (or Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Testing Procedure). This change will happen at the vehicle testing level, where manufacturers test the emission standards of their powertrains. But how will this change affect you, the end consumers (i.e. car buyers)? Let’s find out.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued that the emission standards for the M1 and M2 vehicle categories will be tested under the WLTP cycle. M1 category includes all the passenger vehicles (up to nine-seater), while the M2 includes commercial passenger buses and vans (nine+ seater) with a gross weight of under 5 tonnes. It needs to be noted here that the statement only mentions BS6 ICE cars, and there’s no mention of the EVs yet.
While both the MIDC and WLTP are laboratory tests for fuel efficiency and powertrain emissions, the MIDC follows a fixed speed-distance-time pattern, which is less dynamic and not as accurate as the real-world condition. On the other hand, the WLTP cycle is more stringent, has higher testing speeds, harder acceleration, shorter idling periods, and varied driving phases. This makes the WLTP more matched to the realistic conditions the vehicles are subjected to and hence produces results which are more accurate. The WLTP was adopted by the European Union back in 2018.
Also, the regulation levels remain the same as set by BS6 (Bharat Stage VI) norms in 2020. Even the safety regulation rules will remain unchanged. However, the inclusion of ethanol blending will be more noticeable. The new change also instructs the testing to be conducted on a chassis dynamometer, or more commonly called as ‘rolling road’. There will be frequent testing throughout the lifecycle as well to monitor stricter numbers and provide better precision.
Not only will the newer cars post April 2027 have to comply with the newer WLTP, but the existing models produced from that date forward will also be subjected to the newer test cycles. And the Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms, which are under MIDC right now, will also move to WLTP.
How It Impact Car Buyers?
Firstly, since the WLTP is more closely matched to real-world conditions, the fuel efficiency figures that manufacturers advertise will be slightly lower. Or better put, more evenly matched to what the owner could expect in the day-to-day driving. It is essential to understand that the vehicle's efficiency won’t decrease; only the advertised claimed figures will be more closely matched to the real-world performance.
Secondly, the emissions figure will be closer to the real-world condition. But as a buyer, this won’t affect you in any other way than getting a regular PUC for your car.
Lastly, it’s the pricing. While the testing applies to manufacturers and not to the end consumers in any way, the pricing of the vehicles sold – theoretically – shouldn’t change in any way. However, since the OEMs might have to recalibrate the powertrains – including but not limited to the engines, transmissions, running gear, and even the exhaust systems – for the newer testing equipment, they may or may not pass on the added expenses down to the customer.
It needs to be seen when the EVs will be subjected to the WLTP cycles. Since the WLTP is more accurate for the real-world range achieved by the EVs, it will be helpful for buyers to make a more informed decision with their newer EVs when it comes to range.
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Toyota has unveiled the next generation of its popular Highlander SUV for the United States, with one big change over its predecessors: it’s electric-only. The new Highlander becomes Toyota’s fourth EV for North American markets and its first-ever three-row electric SUV. Underpinned by a modified TNGA-K monocoque platform, the new Highlander will go on sale in global markets in late 2026 and will be offered with two battery packs and front or all-wheel drive options.
On the design front, the new Highlander adopts Toyota’s latest design template with the familiar ‘Hammer Head’ front end design, with the sleek LED lightbar just below the bonnet, while retaining boxy and upright proportions. As with many new-gen EVs, the Highlander has a distinct lack of a front grille, with the bumper featuring a thick swathe of body-coloured plastic between the lightbar and the airdam at its base. Additional lighting elements sit in the faux vents on either side of the central air intake.
In profile, the SUV rides on large 19-inch wheels - 22-inch wheels are optional - with a notable crease on the shoulderline extending from the front doors and into a prominent rear haunch. Around the back, the new Highlander features a sleek edge-to-edge lightbar below the rear windshield and a sleek rear bumper replete with a faux skidplate element.
Inside, the dashboard features a layered design with a free-standing 12.3-inch digital instruments display and a large 14-inch central touchscreen. Physical switch gear is minimal on the centre console, while the central air-con vents sit almost at the base of the bumper. Being an EV, Toyota has tried to maximise storage with a floating central floor console with space for smartphones and cupholders at the top and a storage cubby below.
Depending on the variant, buyers can option the Highlander with a bench seat in the second row, with captain seats being part of the standard configuration. Top variants feature tech such as heated and ventilated front seats and heated second row seats with an optional panoramic glass roof. Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 ADAS systems are standard.
Moving to the powertrain, the new Highlander will be offered with two battery options - 77 kWh and 95.8 kWh. The smaller unit gets the option for front and all-wheel drive, while the larger unit gets dual-motor AWD as standard. In the FWD spec, the SUV is good for 221 bhp and 268 Nm, while the AWD modes develop a stronger 338 bhp and 438 Nm. Toyota claims a range of up to 447 km for the 77 kWh variants and a range of up to 515 km for the 95.8 kWh variants.
In terms of charging, Toyota has said that the new Highlander supports North American Charging Standards for the North American markets, offering fast charge times in the region of 30 mins for a 10 to 80 per cent charge. All variants will also ship with an 11 kW on-board charger.
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When we are praising a car's capabilities, we often fail to recognise the critical role played by the tyres. Be it overcoming technical challenges out there in the wild or the comfort that you seek on a long drive, tyres are at the base of it all, scraping the road below to get you the much-needed traction and rolling tirelessly for you, munching miles relentlessly. The role of the tyre in a car’s performance is one of the most underrated things, as a matter of fact.
On a recent invitation from Continental Tyres, we headed out on an adventure trail hidden between a reserve forest on one side and the Goa-Karnataka state border on the other. Two hours of driving from the Dabolim airport, passing through a narrow road meandering through forest area and connecting remote villages in between, took us to the perfect setting for testing the new Continental CrossContact A/T2 tyres.
We were welcomed by the thick foliage of wild vegetation, old trees with huge canopies and tyre tracks carved on soft mud, disappearing as you wade into a river stream or climb over a rocky patch. Ideal test track for testing a rugged off-road tyre with just mud, slush, rocks and water around and no sight of cement or tar for kilometres.
CrossContact Tyres were first launched by Continental in India in late 2023. It was subsequently made available in varying sizes to match the popular OEM fitment requirements. CrossContact AX6 is aimed at providing the best grip on off-road trails, offering comfort and low noise on tarmac at the same time. The latest generation CrossContact A/T² tyre is equipped with Traction Plus technology designed to tackle extreme off-roading. The grooves are wider and 14% deeper than the AX6, and the unique block geometry resists lodging of small stones and mud that usually cause traction loss on trails.
During our drive through the specially curated off-road trail, tyres stood on the ground well, even when the big SUVs leaned at 45 degrees on a side, putting all its weight on rubber. Navigating through narrow forest trails meant tackling small stones, pebbles, and loose soil, none of which could unsettle the vehicle's grip on the ground.
Bold, large block pattern looks promising and functionally superior with deep grooves acting as the gripping tooth for the tyre. The special treads on the shoulder give more volume to the tyre and make it look visually broader than it originally is.
On extremely steep climbs, our SUV kept crawling forward without the slightest slip or skid. Strong grip ensured easy movement on challenging inclines laden with loose gravel and mud.
This was followed by driving into a river with a muddy bed underneath, needing sure footing over a slippery surface. Traction Plus technology played an important role here by providing constant grip during the entire water wading experience and preventing a lateral slide while leaving the water and climbing up over the slushy riverbank.
CrossContact A/T2 tyres performed as promised, giving both confidence and assurance in abundance while dealing with the difficult terrain.
Not every tyre can deliver everything that a vehicle in motion usually demands. The most important of all in an off roading set up is always providing a good grip on the ground, irrespective of what lies beneath the rubber. And on that ground, CrossContact A/T2 is surely a strong offering.
We did not get an opportunity to test the tyres on a regular road, knowing Continental’s strong reputation for making tyres with the least road noise and offering utmost comfort, this could be the one SUV tyre you need for all your requirements.
Written by: Aashish Bhardwaj
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Tata Motors has announced a continuation of its long standing partnership with Stellantis in India and other global markets. The two brands have just completed 20-years of partnering via their 50:50 joint venture, Fiat India Automobiles Private Limited (FIAPL). To mark the occasion, both companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore further opportunities for collaboration across manufacturing, engineering and supply chain in India and other global markets.
Tata Motors said in a statement that the partnership has been able to successfully leverage Stellantis’ global expertise and its vehicles’ local capabilities. It added that robust strength across manufacturing, powertrain, and supply‑chain excellence will help lay a strong foundation for expanding future collaboration. 4 Jeep and 3 Tata Motors cars are currently produced at the JV Plant and more than 1.37 Million vehicles produced since the beginning of the partnership.
Grégoire Olivier, Chief Operating Officer of Stellantis Asia Pacific, said: “FIAPL stands as a testament to what two strong organizations can achieve together. As we commemorate this milestone, we remain focused on evolving the partnership to support future-ready manufacturing, innovation, and sustainable growth in the region.”
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director & CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, added: “Our partnership with Stellantis through FIAPL reflects the strength of a long-standing collaboration built on trust, shared values and a common vision. We look forward to deepening this relationship with Stellantis in the years ahead.”
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Ferrari has provided new details on its upcoming first-ever EV, including its name - Luce or ‘Light’ in Italian. We also get our first look at the EV’s interior, following a retro-inspired design replete with physical toggle switches on the centre console, a retro-styled steering and a digital instrument cluster that looks close to analogue.
Ferrari says that the Luce will be its first car to feature the instrument binacle mounted on the steering column, letting it move with the steering to maintain an optimum viewing angle. While the three dial cutouts in the binacle, while looking inspired by Ferrari’s retro dials from the past, are all digital units. They utilise a unique layered OLED display design featuring two overlapping displays to offer a three-dimensional display. Ferrari says the three dials are part of one singular display rather than three individual screens.
The steering also looks to take a retro-inspired design direction, looking akin to units found in the likes of the Ferrari F40 and F50. The centre features the use of leather, while the aluminium frame is visible in the exposed spokes. As with other new Ferraris, all driver-related controls are featured on the steering wheel itself. Additionally, in line with the recent Amalfi and Testarossa, the buttons are physical and not capacitive touch.
The use of aluminium is also visible on the dashboard with a thick slab running its width. It houses the retro-styled circular air-con vents and the mounting for the free-standing centre display. The centre console display is mounted on a ball joint and capable of being adjusted towards the driver or passenger. The screen features the use of Corning Fusion5 Glass with a mechanical clock also integrated into the top corner of the unit. A row of physical buttons sits below the display, with Ferrari also integrating a handrest into the floating unit for easier operation.
As for the clock, Ferrari says that it features a unique movement with three individual motors powering each of the clock’s three arms. The unit features four modes – clock, chronograph, compass, and launch control.
Another highlight is the floor console between the seats that features a shift-by-wire selector made entirely out of Corning Fusion5 Glass. A key dock sits alongside the shifter, with the vehicle key itself also made from the same glass. Ferrari says that the Luce’s key features the first application of colour-changing E-Ink in its range, with the yellow Ferrari badge turning black when the key is docked in its housing.
Previously, Ferrari has already revealed details on the powertrain of the new EV, confirming a quad motor set-up making in excess of 1000 bhp paired with a 122 kWh battery. The EV is also set to offer a range of over 500 km on a full charge.
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The year 2026 started with a bang for the Indian auto Industry as manufacturers launched and unveiled cars across different segments, powertrains and body styles in January. February too promises be no different as many new products are slated to hit the Indian roads in the next fortnight. Here’s the list and this includes everything from SUVs to MPVs and yes electric vehicles.
MG Majestor
JSW MG Motor India is set to launch the Majestor SUV in the market on February 12. It is in a sense a replacement for the Gloster but will have a larger footprint. The SUV is likely to come with a more sporty design language while the cabin could see some similarities with the Gloster. It is likely to run on the same 2.0-litre diesel engine that powers the Gloster which makes 216 bhp and is mated to an 8-speed auto gearbox. The SUV will also come with all-wheel drive capability.
Nissan will re-enter the Indian MPV space after more than a decade with the Gravite. The MPV is based on the Renault Triber but based on the teasers it is likely to come with a more aggressive design language. The cabin is likely to share features with the Triber and the engine too will be the same 1.0 3-cylinder unit that comes with manual and AMT options. Nissan could price the Gravite more aggressively when compared to the Triber to attract more consumers.
Tata Punch EV Facelift
Two years after the baby SUV was first launched in the market, Tata Motors will launch a facelift version of the Punch EV on February 20. The first look of the electric car has already been revealed which points towards resigned DRLs, bumpers and air vents. A new, unnamed colour has also been revealed which could give the Punch EV a fresher look. The cabin is likely to get more features than earlier and the SUV could get a slightly bigger battery pack than before.
After launching the new X3 in India in 2025, in both Petrol and Diesel versions, BMW is ready to launch a more powerful Petrol version of the SUV on February 16th. The X3 30 M Sport Pro runs on the same 2.0 twin-turbo Petrol engine but at 258 bhp & 400 Nm it gets significantly more power and torque. There are some exterior and interior changes too which are exclusive to this variant including blacked out grille, smoked headlamps and M styled seat belts.
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Hero MotoCorp’s electric vehicle brand, Vida is getting ready to enter the electric motorcycle segment. The company has filed design patents for what appears to be a production-spec version of the Vida Ubex, which was showcased as a concept at the EICMA 2025. From the patent images, the Vida Ubex appears to be a street-focussed urban electric motorcycle with an aggressive naked bike stance.
The design patent reveals the sporty naked bike silhouette of the Ubex, along with some distinctive styling elements. The bike gets a single projector headlamp surrounded by a LED daytime running light and turn indicators. The headlight housing shape and design looks contemporary and modern, as does the sculpted “tank” section, split seat. The handlebar is flat and wide, hinting at an upright riding stance, while the patent shows the front suspension to be conventional telescopic fork set-up and not the USD showcased in the concept.
The Ubex retains alloy wheels at both ends with front and rear disc brake set-up and a large battery pack is seen mounted low on the frame, hinting at what could possibly be a high-range electric motorcycle. The motor is expected to be mid-mounted and placed right behind the battery, while the trellis swingarm appears to have been retained from the concept. Power is expected to be sent to the rear wheel via a chain drive. A large display is visible, which is expected to be TFT.
So far, only the design patents are available and no other details on specifications and range are available. The filing of the design patent is however an indication that the Vida Ubex is almost ready though there’s no confirmed launch timeline as yet.
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Nissan India has given us a sneak peek at the interior of the Gravite MPV ahead of its debut, slated for February 17. Based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-A platform, the Gravite will share its underpinnings with the Renault Triber. However, the latest images suggest that the cabin layout is closer to the Triber’s pre-facelift version, with a familiar dashboard and control placement carried over for the Nissan derivative.
From the images, the Gravite appears to share several interior elements with its cousin, the pre-facelift Renault Triber. The dashboard layout looks familiar, with a centrally placed touchscreen and air con vents sitting above. The three-spoke steering wheel appears to be new and has mounted controls.
While areas such as the centre console and parts of the dashboard are not clearly visible in the teaser images, the overall layout suggests that much of the cabin design has been borrowed over. It remains to be seen whether Nissan will introduce additional features to differentiate the Gravite from its alliance partner, Renault. Similar to the Renault Triber, the Nissan Gravite will have a 5+2 seating layout.
On the equipment list, the Nissan Gravite is expected to offer features including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, rear AC vents, and multiple charging outlets, among others. In terms of safety, the Gravite is likely to come equipped with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist and a tyre-pressure monitoring system, ISOFIX and parking sensors with a reverse camera.
On the outside, the Gravite features a distinct front-end design, highlighted by a prominent grille with a mesh-like pattern and swept-back headlamps with LED eyebrow-style elements. The front bumper incorporates C-shaped inserts on either side along with a central air dam. Teasers of the rear section suggest a layout similar to the Triber, with the main visible change being a revised bumper design.
Under the hood, the Gravite is expected to use the familiar 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine seen across the Renault-Nissan CMF-A range. This unit produces 71 bhp and 96 Nm of torque and is likely to be offered with both manual and AMT transmission options.
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Jawa Moto has unveiled the new 730 Twin for global markets. However, it is important to note that this model is not related to the Jawa motorcycles currently sold in India. In the Indian market, the Jawa and Yezdi brands are operated by Classic Legends, which holds the rights to manufacture and sell these products locally under the Mahindra Group umbrella. The 730 Twin, on the other hand, has been developed by the original Czech brand, which continues to function independently.
The Jawa 730 Twin carries a unique design with a mix of contemporary and retro elements, though it is not easy to place neatly into one category. It features a compact profile with a sculpted fuel tank, exposed frame and a short tail section. Up front, the round LED headlamp and simple bodywork keep things minimal.
At present, Jawa’s global website lists three models under its 750 platform. The new 730 Twin packs the same 730cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing 74 bhp at 8,200 rpm. Jawa Moto mentions that the engine has been developed in collaboration with Swiss engineering firm Suter Racing Technology.
Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable KYB upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock. Braking hardware includes twin Brembo calipers at the front, while the bike runs on 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends. Other features include full LED lighting and smartphone-connectivity functions such as call and message alerts through the TFT instrument cluster, which also offers navigation.
The Jawa 730 Twin is expected to go on sale in the Czech Republic later this year. However, since the motorcycle has been developed independently by Jawa Moto in Europe, it is not linked to the Jawa range sold in India. As a result, its launch in the Indian market remains unlikely.
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Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has launched new special editions of the Dio 125 scooter and Shine 125 motorcycle. Called the Dio 125 X-Edition and Shine 125 Special Edition, the two models are priced at Rs 87,733 and Rs 86,211 (ex-showroom), respectively, and feature unique special-edition colourways and graphics compared to the standard models.
Starting with the Dio 125 X-Edition, the scooter gets a new dual-tone Pearl Siren Blue and Pearl Deep Ground Grey colour scheme, along with X-Edition specific body graphics and Mat-Frash coloured alloy wheels. Honda says that the special edition is aimed at Gen Z and young riders who want to ‘project confidence and individuality’. At Rs 87,733 (ex-showroom), the special edition costs about Rs 1,000 more than the Dio 125 standard and gets similar features such as all LED lighting, TFT instrument cluster, engine idle stop/start system and USB Type-C charging socket.
Moving to the Shine 125 Limited Edition, the special edition motorcycle also gets an edition-specific livery, though the base Pearl Siren Blue colour is shared with the standard Shine 125. The special edition can also be identified by its pyrite-brown alloy wheels, compared to the standard motorcycle’s black-painted units. At Rs 86,211 (ex-showroom), the special edition Rs 1,000 more than the Shine 125 Disc while offering the same features.
