Maharashtra Proposes Double Green Tax, Scrappage Incentives For Old Vehicles

The Government of Maharashtra has proposed measures to encourage vehicle owners to retire older vehicles from the road. The proposal includes higher green taxes on ageing vehicles along with tax concessions for owners who voluntarily choose to scrap them and purchase newer models.

 

Also Read: No More KYV: Relief for FASTag Users from February 2026

Under the proposed plan, vehicle owners who scrap older vehicles could receive motor vehicle tax concessions when buying a replacement. Owners scrapping BS-III or older vehicles may receive a 30 per cent concession on motor vehicle tax, while those scrapping BS-IV vehicles could be eligible for a 16 per cent concession when purchasing a new vehicle. The move is intended to encourage the replacement of older vehicles with newer models that comply with stricter emission norms.

 

Alongside the incentives, the state government has also proposed a revision of the green tax applicable to older vehicles. As per the proposal, the environmental tax could be doubled. If implemented, the green tax for two-wheelers may increase from Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000, while petrol cars could see it rise from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000. For diesel cars, the tax could increase from Rs 3,500 to Rs 7,000. These taxes are typically collected at the time of vehicle registration renewal once a vehicle crosses a certain age threshold.

 

Also Read: No Fastag Annual Pass For Three Row Cars? NHAI Clarifies

The proposal is aligned with the broader framework of the Vehicle Scrappage Policy introduced by the central government. Under this system, vehicles scrapped at authorised Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) are issued a certificate of deposit, which can then be used to claim benefits when purchasing a new vehicle.

 

The state government’s proposal aims to encourage owners to phase out older, higher-emission vehicles. The measures are currently under consideration, and details on implementation timelines are expected to be clarified as the proposal progresses. 

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New Renault Duster’s Global Modular Platform Can Spawn Nexon Rival, Sedans, MPVs More

Renault has revealed full details of its new Global Modular Platform (RGMP) that debuted as the base for the all-new Duster in India. The new modular platform Renault says has been designed and engineered with the Indian market in mind, though it does share some aspects with the company's global CMF platforms.
 

RGMP can be used in models ranging from sub-4m to 4.7 metres.

 

Can Underpin Vehicles Ranging From Sub-4m To 4.7m; Support Multiple Body Styles
 

Renault says that the new RGMP platform is scalable and will allow the brand to develop models ranging from the sub-4m segment to midsize models measuring up to 4.7 metres in length. The company says that the scalable nature of the platform will allow Renault to alter the length of the platform to suit the varying applications with all three major sections of the chassis - the front overhang, rear overhang and the wheelbase capable of being stretched or shrunk depending on the use case.
 

Front & rear overhangs are adjustable and can be stretched or shrunk depending on the use case.

 

Starting with the wheelbase, the RGMP platform supports models with a wheelbase of between 2,632 mm and 2,748 mm. The front section, meanwhile, is scalable between 780 and 860 mm, while the rear overhang can be stretched from a compact 665 mm to up to 1020 mm depending on the use case. The platform can also support wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches with tyre sections ranging from 205 to 225 mm.

Wheelbase is adjustable as well, and the platform can be configured for three-rows of seating. 

 

As for the new Duster, the SUV currently sits in the middle ground of what the platform can offer with a 2,657 mm wheelbase, 855 mm front overhang and 834 mm rear overhang. And as for the sub-4 metre models, we’re likely to see the first application of the RGMP in a sub-4m model with the upcoming Bridger concept that debuts on March 10.
 

Upcoming Bridger concept likely to be first sub-4m application of the RGMP

 

SUVs aside, Renault also says that the RGMP platform can support a variety of top hats, including hatchbacks, sedans and MPVs.
 

Flexible Seating Capabilities
 

Renault says that the RGMP will be capable of offering flexible seating configurations ranging from the standard 5-seater, as seen on the Duster, to a three-row configuration. The carmaker says that the platform can allow for the development of six- and seven-seater models, with the company claiming ‘segment-best’ levels of space in the third row.
 

Multiple Powertrain & Drivetrains Supported: RGMP Is EV Ready

 

At the time of the Duster’s global debut on Republic Day 2026, Renault said that it would arrive with turbo-petrol and strong hybrid powertrain options. The turbo-petrols are set to be launched later this month, while the strong hybrid is due during the festive season. Those aside, Renault says that the RGMP platform will also be capable of forming the basis for future all-electric vehicles, though there are currently no concrete plans from Renault for the same. CNG powertrains are also supported.
 

New platform supports both 4x2 and 4x4 tech and is EV ready as well.

 

Additionally, the company says that the platform can support its 4x4 systems - both mechanical, where the engine provides all the power, as well as electrified 4x4 with an electric motor powering one of the axles. Globally, the Duster does get a strong hybrid 4x4 variant with an electric motor powering the rear axle.

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Toyota Rumion Gets New Base E Variant, Prices Now Start At Rs 9.56 Lakh

Toyota has introduced a new entry-level E variant of the Toyota Rumion at Rs 9.56 lakh (ex-showroom). The addition of a new base variant reduces the Rumion’s starting price by Rs 95,000. The Rumion is now available in four trims: E, S, G and V. Prices for the rest of the lineup remain unchanged, with the range topping out at Rs 13.86 lakh (ex-showroom).

Also Read: Mahindra XEV 9e Cineluxe Edition Launched At Rs 29.35 Lakh

 

The E variant is offered only with a petrol-manual configuration. It uses the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 103hp, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. This trim does not offer an automatic transmission or a CNG option. In terms of equipment, the base variant gets projector halogen headlights, LED taillights, manual air conditioning, all four power windows and rear parking sensors. Safety features include six airbags and hill-hold assist.

Also Read: Honda City, Elevate, And Amaze Available With Huge Discounts In March
 

However, it misses out on several features available in higher variants, including rear AC vents, powered outside rearview mirrors, an adjustable inside rearview mirror and an infotainment system with speakers. The Rumion continues to compete with the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Kia Carens in the Indian MPV segment.

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JSW’s Creta Electric Rival Spotted: Chery Jaecoo J5 Undergoes Testing In Pune

JSW Group’s intention to enter the automotive space is not secret. While on one side the company has already partnered with China’s SAIC’s MG Motor India, on the other side, it’s also working on launching an independent brand – JSW Motors. And one of them could be a Hyundai Creta rival, based on the Jaecoo J5, built by China’s Chery Automobile. A heavily camouflaged version of the SUV was recently spotted undergoing ARAI testing in Pune, Maharashtra. 

 

Also Read: JSW Motors Teases Its First SUV For India; To Be Based On Jetour T2

 

The SUV in question here – the Jaecoo J5, was introduced in 2025, and is sold in China, Indonesia and a couple of other markets. Depending on the market, the SUV is offered either with a petrol engine, a strong hybrid motor, or even an all-electric powertrain. The model that has been spotted testing, in all likelihood, is the EV version. All that said, the first model under JSW Motors is likely to be a large SUV based on the Jetour T2, also from Chery Auto.

 

Also Read: Jetour T2 SUV Design Patent Registered In India

 

 

Based on what we can see and information on the global model, the SUV will come with sleek all-LED lighting, regular door handles (no flush door handles), and aero-style alloy wheels. There’s a large rear spoiler. The cabin, at the same time, will be quite minimalistic with a large central touchscreen for the infotainment system and a small digital display for the driver cluster. 

 

 

Expect to see features like wireless charging, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree view cameras and ADAS. Globally, the Jaecoo J5 EV comes with a 58.9 kWh battery that offers a WLTP range of around 400 km. The SUV is expected to be locally assembled at JSW's upcoming plant in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar.

 

Source: Trakinauto

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Affordable New Honda Electric Motorcycle Revealed In Patents

In July 2025, patent images filed by Honda revealed an electric motorcycle based on the chassis of the made-in-India Honda Shine 100. The Shine 100 is one of the most affordable and simple models in Honda’s motorcycle range. Now, a new patent from Honda seems to suggest that it may be developing yet another low-cost electric motorcycle, designed specifically for developing markets. 

 

Also Read: Is An Electric Honda Shine Being Worked On?

 

While Honda hasn’t made much headway in the electric scooter segment, this new patent seems to underscore Honda’s future strategy for the electric motorcycle segment. And Honda’s belief, as more than one patent suggests, seems to be that running costs and purchase costs go hand in hand to make mass-market products more widely acceptable, particularly in developing markets.

 

The latest patent images seem to be of an electric version based on a low-cost petrol-powered model that Honda currently sells in Africa. From the patent images, the design reveals enough details to suggest that it’s a real project. Like the Honda Shine electric, the silhouette of the new motorcycle seems to be based on the Honda Ace 125, a mass-market model manufactured in Nigeria which has been on sale since 2011. It is sold in several other African markets.

 

 

 

 

The electric motorcycle uses the existing backbone-style frame from the Ace 125 with batteries fitted on either side and an electric motor fitted in the space typically used for the engine and transmission. What Honda seems to be trying to get patent protection specifically for appears to be the battery mounting system. 

 

The solution in Honda’s patents, is to make the batteries easily removable, allowing them to be taken indoors overnight for charging or to be swapped for re-charged batteries, but also make them secure and theft-proof, despite being mounted in exposed cages on either side of the bike.

 

Honda seems to have designed a simple locking system with durable cages for the batteries which also act as “crash guards” to protect the batteries in the event of an accident. The battery cage hinges on the frame’s downtube at the front and is designed to swing open to give access to the batteries. With both batteries installed, the cages swing closes, securing them into the sides of the motorcycle. 

 

There don’t appear to be any fancy electronics, and even the braking set-up is basic at best, with cable-actuated brakes with a front and rear drum set-up. Other components like the headlight, seat, handlebar and suspension seem to be shared with the petrol-powered model. 

 

So far, there’s no word on when this new Honda electric motorcycle will see production, and if it does, which markets will it be launched in. One thing is clear though – Honda’s electric motorcycle strategy will be focussed on mass-market inexpensive commuter products going forward, rather than on expensive and premium, performance-oriented electric motorcycles.

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Hyundai Exter Facelift Spied Testing Ahead Of 2026 Launch

The Hyundai Exter is set to receive a mid-cycle update, with a test mule of the facelifted model spotted testing on Indian roads once again. Spy images of the updated micro-SUV had first surfaced online in January this year. Hyundai India introduced the first-generation Exter in 2023, and the upcoming facelift is expected to bring minor exterior revisions along with feature updates. The refreshed model is likely to arrive in the first half of 2026.

 

Also Read: Hyundai i20 Line-Up Now Starts At Rs 5.99 Lakh

The facelifted Exter has also been spotted testing in South Korea, and the latest Indian test mule appears similar to that version. It retains its signature H-shaped, high-mounted LED daytime running lights, while the square projector headlamps look largely unchanged. However, the front bumper could receive subtle revisions, and the grille on the camouflaged vehicle appears taller and more upright than before.

 

At the rear, most design elements remain concealed under camouflage. From what is visible, the tail lamps appear similar to those on the current model, including the H-shaped lighting signature. A connecting light bar between the tail lamps could be added in this update.

 

Interior details of the facelifted Exter are not visible in the latest spy shots. The overall cabin layout is expected to remain largely unchanged, though Hyundai could update the equipment list. Potential additions may include a larger infotainment touchscreen, expanded functions for the digital instrument cluster, and updates to the connected car tech suite.

 

Also Read: Hyundai Creta Electric Now Supports 100 kW DC Fast Charging

Under the hood, the Exter facelift is unlikely to see major mechanical changes. It is expected to continue with the existing 1.2-litre petrol engine, paired with manual and AMT gearbox options. The factory-fitted CNG variant with Hyundai’s twin-cylinder technology is also expected to remain part of the lineup.

 

The updated Exter is expected to be introduced in the Indian market later this year. The current model is priced between Rs 5.64 lakh and goes up to Rs 8.85 lakh (ex-showroom). Expect the facelift to command a marginal premium over this. Once launched, it will continue to compete with rivals such as the Tata Punch and Citroen C3X.

 

Image Source

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Ultraviolette Rolls Out Battery-As-A-Service; X-47 Now Available From Rs 1.49 Lakh

Ultraviolette Automotive has introduced a new ownership programme called ‘Battery Flex’ for its electric motorcycles sold in the country. The initiative is essentially a battery-as-a-service (BaaS) model, allowing customers to purchase the motorcycle at a lower upfront price while subscribing to the battery separately through a monthly plan.

 

Also Read: Ultraviolette X-47: Variants, Features, Prices Explained

With the new scheme in place, the X-47 can now be purchased for Rs 1.49 lakh, while the battery subscription begins at Rs 2,499 per month. This brings down the initial purchase cost by Rs 1 lakh compared to the full purchase price of Rs 2.49 lakh (ex-showroom).

Model	Upfront vehicle cost	Battery EMI (Monthly)	Cost per km (Claimed)
F77 Original	Rs 1.99 lakh	Rs 2,678	₹2.6/km
F77 Recon	Rs 2.49 lakh	Rs 4,016	₹4/km
X-47 Original	Rs 1.49 lakh	Rs 2.499	₹2.5/km
X-47 Original +	Rs 1.99 lakh	Rs 2,499	₹2.5/km
X-47 Recon	Rs 1.99 lakh	Rs 4,016	₹4/km
X-47 Recon +	Rs 2.49 lakh	Rs 4,016	₹4/km
X-47 Desert Wing	Rs 2.69 lakh	Rs 4,820	₹4.8/km

The Battery Flex programme has also been extended to the Ultraviolette F77 electric motorcycle. Under the BaaS model, the F77 can now be bought at a starting price of Rs 1.99 lakh, while the battery subscription starts at Rs 2,678 per month. In comparison, the motorcycle’s standard purchase price stands at Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

 

According to Ultraviolette, the new ownership model reduces the upfront investment required to own the X-47 by 40 per cent. At the end of the subscription period, the ownership of the battery is transferred to the customer without any additional cost.

 

Also Read: Ultraviolette X-47 Crossover First Ride Review: Sense & Sensibility

The company has partnered with Ecofy, a green-focused non-banking financial company, to roll out the Battery Flex programme. Enrolments for the Battery Flex scheme will begin from March 5, 2026.

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Maserati Delivers India’s First Bespoke Grecale Fuoriserie And One-Off GranCabrio Trofeo

Maserati has just delivered two bespoke creations in India through its Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme – a specially commissioned Maserati Grecale in New Delhi and a one-off Maserati GranCabrio in Ahmedabad. Think of Fuoriserie as Maserati’s version of a couture studio, how Aston Martin has got Q, and MSO from McLaren. Here, instead of choosing from a catalogue, customers get a blank canvas, and they can choose colours, materials, finishes – almost everything can be tailored to match the owner’s taste.

Also Read: Maserati MCPura Launched In India At Rs 4.12 Crore
 

The first of the two cars is a Maserati Grecale GT delivered through the Italian marque’s North India dealership in New Delhi. What makes it special is the paint. Called Rose Gold Liquid Metal, the finish comes from Maserati’s Fuoriserie Futura Collection, and it surely looks very special as it carries almost jewellery-like sheen.

Also Read: Maserati Grecale Folgore Launched In India At Rs 1.89 Crore
 

To complement the exterior, the Grecale rides on 20-inch forged Etere wheels finished with red brake callipers. On the inside, the theme continues with rich red leather seats contrasted against a Nero-finished dashboard and headliner. Open-pore Radica wood trim softens the cabin with a natural touch.

Also Read: Maserati India Launches Two Open Top Models; MC20 Cielo and GranCabrio Go On Sale

 

Meanwhile, across the states, in Ahmedabad, the West India dealership handed over a bespoke Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo. As Maserati’s open-top grand tourer, the GranCabrio already carries plenty of drama; this particular commission simply turns the dial up. The exterior is done up in Blu Royale, a deep and elegant shade from the Fuoriserie Corse Collection. 

Also Read: New Maserati GranTurismo Launched In India; Priced From Rs 2.72 Crore

 

It sits on staggered 20-inch at the front and 21-inch at the rear forged wheels finished in a diamond-cut matte dark Myron design. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in Nero leather with Rosso contrast stitching running across the seats, dashboard and door panels. Matte carbon fibre weave trim further reinforces the performance character of the Trofeo.

Also read: Maserati GT2 Stradale Unveiled; 640 BHP Supercar Does 0 to 100 KMPH Sprint In Just 2.8 Seconds

 

The Fuoriserie programme itself now sits within the broader BOTTEGAFUORISERIE initiative – a creative ecosystem shared between Maserati and Alfa Romeo. The project combines bespoke customisation, heritage restoration, material innovation and motorsport expertise under one umbrella. In other words, it’s where tradition meets experimentation. For customers in India, the experience is available through Maserati showrooms across the country. 

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Kawasaki Patents Modular Electric Motorcycle Platform

The internal combustion engine has been the preferred motive form of a motorcycle for many years. It contributes to the machine's dynamics, performance, and even its dimensions. The frame’s layout, wheelbase, and general design are determined by the engine's physical dimensions. However, this restriction is changing with the adaptation of electric powertrains. Since electric motors are much more compact, engineers can design motorcycles with much greater flexibility. 

Kawasaki's recently released patent images demonstrating how the company intends to leverage this advantage. A modular electric platform that can support several motor options within the same core chassis is the main idea of the concept. Simply put, Kawasaki is looking at the possibility of providing various electric motorcycle performance variants without completely redesigning the frame each time.

 

Also Read: Kawasaki Ninja, Versys Models Offered With Discounts Of Up To Rs 2.50 Lakh

The patent drawings depict the silhouette of a motorcycle that resembles the current Kawasaki Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 in terms of layout. Featuring a steel trellis frame, a motor close to the swingarm pivot, and detachable battery packs placed in the middle of a box-like enclosure. However, the mounting of the motor is modular with multiple bolting options with the intermediate subframe positioned between the chassis and the motor-transmission unit.

The upper and lower sections of this subframe can be altered or swapped out to accommodate various motor units. Kawasaki may be able to accommodate different motor types with minimal structural alterations by modifying this smaller attachment instead of the main frame. The mounting points are adjustable to the necessary power output or configuration, but the main chassis stays intact.

 

Also Read: Kawasaki KLE500 Unveiled

The automotive industry has been using a similar strategy for many years. Multiple engine options can be supported by a single car platform without changing the basic structure or appearance of the vehicle. Motorcycles have historically not had that degree of flexibility because of their small packaging. However, the equation is altered by electric technology.

 

A modular concept like this offers financial benefits in addition to engineering convenience. Sharing key parts among several models simplifies production and lowers research and development costs too. Such approach could turn out to be an important factor in making future EVs more accessible, since high costs continue to be one of the main obstacles to the adoption of electric motorcycles.

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2026 World Car Awards: Top 3 Finalists Announced Across Categories

The shortlist for the 2026 edition of the World Car Awards has been revealed, with the top three finalists announced across six categories. The winners will be revealed on April 1 at the New York International Auto Show. Notably, the World Car of the Year category features two electric vehicles among the three finalists – the BMW iX3 and Nissan Leaf – alongside the internal combustion-powered Hyundai Palisade.

 

Also Read: 2026 World Car Awards Finalists Announced

The finalists were selected by a jury comprising automotive journalists from 33 countries, with three cars shortlisted in each of the six award categories.

 

World Car of the Year

 

• BMW iX3 
• Hyundai Palisade 
• Nissan Leaf

 

World Electric Vehicle 

 

• BMW iX3 
• Mercedes-Benz CLA 
• Nissan Leaf 

 

World Luxury Car 

• 
  Cadillac Vistiq 
• Lucid Gravity 
• Volvo ES90

 

World Performance Car 

• 
  BMW M2 CS 
• Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 
• Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

 

World Urban Car 

• 
  Baojun Yep Plus / Chevrolet Spark EUV 
• Firefly 
• Hyundai Venue

 

World Car Design of the Year

 

• Kia PV5 
• Mazda 6e / EZ-6 
• Volvo ES90

 

For the World Car Design of the Year category, a panel of seven global design experts first reviewed all eligible vehicles and created a shortlist before the final voting stage. The panel included Anja Bracht, Marek Djordjevic, Fabio Filippini, Antony Grade, Gert Hildebrand, Victor Nacif and Shiro Nakamura.

Following the design panel’s review, the final shortlist across categories was voted on by a jury of 98 automotive journalists from around the world. The winners in each category will be announced on April 1, 2026, during the New York International Auto Show. 

 

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Is this the Vida VXZ Electric Motorcycle?

Hero MotoCorp’s electric two-wheeler division Vida may be looking to launch the brand’s first electric motorcycle later this year. Less than a month after patent designs of the Vida Ubex electric motorcycle emerged, now an almost-production ready Vida electric motorcycle has been spotted undergoing tests, somewhere in Rajasthan, India. 

 

Also Read: Hero Vida Ubex Design Patented In India

What sets this apart is that the test mule of the new electric motorcycle appears to be of the upcoming Vida VXZ and not the Ubex. Design patents of the Vida VXZ have also been filed, and the test mule appears to have a similar stance and silhouette as that of the VXZ’s design seen in patent images that also emerged recently.

 

Also Read: Hero Vida VXZ Teased Ahead of EICMA Reveal

 

Currently, Vida has scooter models, and from what we can see from the images, the VXZ sports traditional petrol-powered motorcycle stance and proportions. The overall silhouette is more of an entry-level naked street motorcycle, rather than a commuter motorcycle. The VXZ, believed to be a product of the partnership with Zero Motorcycles, sports a sharp LED headlight, along with muscular body panels, a split-seat set-up, and a flat, wide handlebar.

 

For now, no details are available on the VXZ. Considering the premium look and feel of the test mule, the Vida VXZ could be positioned as a sporty electric motorcycle which will be positioned as a premium product rather than being a mass market one. On the performance front, the VXZ is expected to rival 150-200 cc petrol-powered motorcycles, offering a balance of performance, dynamics and range. Fast-charging capability is expected, along with premium features and connected tech. 

 

So far, there’s no clear indication of when the Vida VXZ electric motorcycle will be launched. We expect sometime later in 2026, when Vida announces the VXZ, followed by the Vida Ubex electric motorcycle.

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