Honda Bets Big On India With Rajasthan Expansion & 0 α Electric SUV

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Honda’s car division has kicked off a nationwide test programme for its forthcoming electric SUV, the 0 α ahead of market launch in late 2027

Honda is making big moves in India on two fronts – expanding manufacturing capacity and accelerating its electric vehicle plans. On the industrial domain, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India is set to consolidate its Rajasthan operations with a sizeable investment at the Tapukara facility. At the same time, Honda’s car division has kicked off a nationwide test programme for its forthcoming electric SUV, the 0 α.

Starting with the two-wheeler business, HMSI will add a third production line at its Tapukara plant in Rajasthan. The new line is slated to begin operations in 2028 and will contribute 6,70,000 units of annual capacity. Once it goes live, the Tapukara facility’s total production capability will rise to 2.01 million units per year. The company will invest around Rs. 1,500 crore in the expansion and also acquire around 73,700 square metres of additional land for the project.

The Rajasthan expansion is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs and further strengthen the state’s manufacturing ecosystem. The new production line will mainly appeal to commuter motorcycles and scooters which remain among the largest contributors to volume in the domestic two-wheeler market.

Also Read: Honda Begins Pan-India Road Testing For Upcoming 0 α Electric SUV

Tapukara has been operational since 2011 and has seen several capacity upgrades over the years. Its current annual output stands at about 1.3 million units and efficiency gains are expected to take that number to around 1.34 million units by FY2026 even before the next line is added. HMSI currently operates four plants in India with a total annual capacity of 6.25 million units.

With the Tapukara expansion and another new line planned at its Vithalapur plant in Gujarat from 2027, Honda looks to lift overall Indian production capacity to nearly 8 million units by FY2028. On the PV front, Honda Cars India has now started public road verification trials for the 0 α electric SUV which is expected to arrive in India next year. The prototype testing programme was flagged off from Tapukara, Rajasthan a few days ago.

Also Read: 10 Upcoming Hybrid Cars In India – Hyundai To Honda

Honda 0 α Concept

The EV was first shown globally as the Honda 0 α concept at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. Honda says the test vehicle will be driven across multiple regions of the country to examine how it performs in varied real-world conditions. Engineers will assess ride quality, handling, efficiency, durability and reliability while also checking how the SUV copes with extreme summer heat, monsoon weather and compatibility with different charging networks.

The model is part of Honda’s next-gen EV strategy and will also be developed for global markets including Japan as well as India will act as a production hub. In terms of design and packaging, the Honda 0 α follows the company’s “Thin, Light and Wise” philosophy. The SUV has a clean upright stance, a wide bonnet, large wheel arches, tall pillars, ORVM-mounted indicators and dual-tone wheels.

Compared to the earlier concept, the test prototype appears to have a wider grille section, revised stacked lighting and a more production-ready bumper treatment. Honda is also expected to offer the EV with two battery pack options with a claimed driving range of more than 500 km on a single charge and it will be heavily localised.

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Ola Electric Announces Navratri Mahotsav Offers Of Over Rs. 30,000

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Ola has presented a limited period initiative during the nine-day Chaitra Navratri celebrations with benefits of more than Rs. 30,000

Ola Electric has kicked off a new festive sales campaign under the Navratri Mahotsav banner – introducing benefits worth more than Rs. 30,000 across its scooter and motorcycle lineup. The limited period initiative is timed with the nine-day Chaitra Navratri celebrations and brings together direct price benefits, warranty support and finance-linked cashback offers for consumers across India.

The major highlight of the campaign is the return of the company’s Muhurat Mahotsav format. During a special 90-minute slot each day, Ola will make a restricted number of units available at steeply reduced prices. Under this offer, the S1 Pro+ with the 4 kWh battery is being sold for Rs. 99,999 while the Roadster X+ with the 4.5 kWh battery can be bought for Rs. 79,999 for a limited number of customers during these daily timelines.

Alongside these time-sensitive deals, the Ola S1 scooter family is being offered with a cash benefit of Rs. 9,999. Customers also get an 8-year extended warranty as part of the festive package as well. On top of this, select credit card users can receive instant cashback of up to Rs. 10,000 on EMIs – improving the effective value proposition during the festive period.

Also Read: Ola Launches New Campaign With Rs. 10K Benefits After India’s T20 World Cup Win

The Roadster motorcycle lineup is also part of the Navratri campaign. Ola says the Roadster range will be sold at revised prices and will likewise be bundled with an 8-year extended warranty. It means both of the company’s main electric product ranges are being positioned aggressively during the festival period.

At the same time, Ola Electric has significantly strengthened the reach of its Insider Upgrade Program. After being piloted in select cities, the scheme is now being extended to 60 per cent of the company’s customer base across the country. The upgrade initiative had already generated thousands of enquiries and will now cover all Gen 1 and Gen 2 Ola Electric customers – allowing them to move up to the newer Gen 3 portfolio more easily.

Also Read: Ola & Revolt Offer Big Discounts Until The End Of March – All Key Details

Ola’s current Gen 3 scooter lineup starts with the S1 X in 2 kWh, 3 kWh and 4 kWh forms priced at Rs. 84,999, Rs. 88,999 and Rs. 1,04,999 respectively while the S1 X+ 4 kWh is listed at Rs. 1,09,999. Higher up, the S1 Pro is available in 3 kWh and 4 kWh trims at Rs. 1,19,999 and Rs. 1,39,999 while the S1 Pro+ comes in 4 kWh and 5.2 kWh versions priced at Rs. 1,60,338 and Rs. 1,80,338.

Its electric motorcycle portfolio comprises the Roadster X in 2.5 kWh, 3.5 kWh and 4.5 kWh guises – priced at Rs. 99,999, Rs. 1,09,999 and Rs. 1,24,999 respectively. The Roadster X+ sits above them and is offered in 4.5 kWh and 9.1 kWh guises at Rs. 1,29,999 and Rs. 1,89,999.

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Updated 2026 Kia Carens Clavis Launched, Priced From Rs. 11.20 Lakh

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2026 Kia Carens Clavis lineup has been updated with the addition of new GT-Line and X-Line trims just as the electric version with more features across the board

Kia India has refreshed the Carens Clavis for MY26 with an expanded variant lineup and more features spread across trim levels. The update introduces new styling-based variants while also strengthening mid-level trims with equipment that was previously limited to higher versions – making the MPV more appealing than before.

A key highlight is the addition of GT-Line and X-Line versions which bring a more SUV-inspired character to the Carens Clavis. These new trims are positioned below the Rs. 20 lakh mark and are offered with the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine option – targeting consumers looking for a sportier and more distinctive design.

The GT-Line trims, available in GTX and GTX+ forms, get several cosmetic upgrades to up their sporty appeal such as gloss black roof rails and ORVMs, revised bumpers with body-coloured inserts, LED fog lamps, new alloy wheel designs, lime-finished brake callipers and metal pedals. In contrast, the X-Line variant gains a darker and more aggressive theme.

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis EV GT-Line & X-Line Trims Launched, Gets 6-Seater Option Too

Carens Clavis ICE

Engine	Variant	Transmission	Price (Rs.)
1.5 Petrol	HTE	6MT	11,20,900
1.5 Petrol	HTE(O)	6MT	12,16,900
1.5 Petrol	HTE EX	6MT	12,67,900
1.5 Petrol	HTK+	6MT	15,17,990
1.5 Petrol	HTK+(O)	6MT	16,19,900
1.5 Petrol	HTX	6MT	17,85,900
1.5 Petrol	HTX+	6MT	18,81,900
1.5 Petrol	HTX	iMT	18,14,900
1.5 Petrol	HTX+	iMT	19,10,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	HTK+	7DCT	16,62,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	HTK+(O)	7DCT	17,63,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	GTX	7DCT	19,80,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	HTX(O)	7DCT	19,39,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	HTX(O) A	7DCT	19,85,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	HTX+	7DCT	20,84,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	GTX+	7DCT	21,56,900
1.5 Turbo Petrol	X-Line	7DCT	21,56,900
1.5 Diesel	HTE	6MT	13,13,900
1.5 Diesel	HTE(O)	6MT	14,14,900
1.5 Diesel	HTE EX	6MT	14,65,900
1.5 Diesel	HTK+	6MT	16,21,900
1.5 Diesel	HTK+(O)	6MT	16,99,900
1.5 Diesel	HTX	6MT	18,78,900
1.5 Diesel	HTK+	6AT	17,34,900

It comes with an exclusive Dark Gun Metal paint option alongside Aurora Black Pearl. Additionally, select trims including GTX, GTX+ and X-Line can be configured as six-seaters with captain seats. The Korean auto major has also made feature upgrades across the range. The HTK+ trim now gets an electric sunroof while higher trims from HTK+(O) onwards offer a panoramic sunroof, LED headlamps and a dashcam.

A new HTX(O)A variant has also been introduced – bringing Level 2 ADAS features at a relatively accessible price point. Under the hood, the Carens Clavis continues with multiple engine options including a 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.5-litre diesel. Consumers can choose from a variety of transmissions such as manual, iMT, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed automatic.

Also Read: Kia To Launch 4 New Cars By Next Year – Syros EV To Carnival Hybrid

kia carens clavis ice

The entry point to the 2026 Kia Carens range starts at Rs. 11.20 lakh for the base 1.5 petrol 7-seater in HTE trim and it gradually climbs through variants like HTE(O) and HTE EX before reaching mid-spec trims such as HTK+ and HTX. As you move higher, prices for petrol manual versions touch around Rs. 18.81 lakh while iMT options add a slight premium – going beyond Rs. 19 lakh.

The turbo petrol DCT variants command a further increase, starting from about Rs. 16.62 lakh and going up to Rs. 21.56 lakh for top-end GTX+ and X-Line trims. Diesel variants follow a slightly different spread – beginning at Rs. 13.13 lakh for the base HTE trim and extending up to around Rs. 18.78 lakh for higher manual versions.

Automatic diesel options (6AT) are positioned in the mid-to-upper range – priced around Rs. 17.34 lakh for both 6- and 7-seater configurations. Meanwhile, the 6-seater turbo petrol lineup sits at the higher end overall – especially in fully loaded trims – with prices ranging from Rs. 16.62 lakh to Rs. 21.56 lakh depending on variant and gearbox.

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Mini Cooper S Victory Edition Launched In India At Rs. 57.50 Lakh

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Mini Cooper S Victory Edition is brought into the country as a completely built-up unit; inspired By 1965 Monte Carlo Rally Winner

The Mini Cooper S Victory Edition has been introduced in India as a limited production offering priced at Rs. 57.5 lakh (ex-showroom). Brought in as a completely built-up unit, the model is now available for booking across authorised dealerships with customer deliveries already in progress. Its exclusivity is further underlined by the restricted number of units allocated.

Powering the hatchback is a turbocharged petrol engine developing 204 hp and 300 Nm. It is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 kmph in just 6.6 seconds while reaching a top speed of 242 kmph. Complementing its performance credentials are adaptive suspension and JCW sport brakes.

The inspiration behind the Cooper S Victory Edition comes from Mini’s famous triumph at the Monte Carlo Rally. The original rally-winning Cooper S has influenced several styling elements here – giving the modern car a definitive connection to its motorsport roots while maintaining an identity which is already well recognised across the globe.

On the outside, the special edition is finished in a distinctive Chilli Red shade contrasted by white racing stripes and “52” graphics on the sides. Additional visual highlights include a black panoramic roof, 18-inch JCW alloy wheels and subtle “1965” references – all of which contribute to its commemorative theme and sporty stance compared to the standard version.

The interior uses leather-free materials along with recycled textile surfaces while JCW sport seats and a performance-oriented steering wheel up its sporty feel. Ambient lighting and carefully integrated detailing add to the premium bits while technology is centred around a circular OLED touchscreen running the latest Mini operating system.

It offers features like voice commands, wireless smartphone connectivity and a head-up display. The cabin also comprises a premium audio system and connected car features. Ownership benefits include a standard two-year unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance along with optional service packages and flexible finance plans through BMW Group India.

Commenting on the new launch, Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The new MINI Cooper S Victory Edition is a bold tribute to the legendary 1965 Monte Carlo Rally win, bringing a historic racing soul to modern Indian roads. This limited-run masterpiece captures the aesthetic essence of MINI’s competitive DNA, meticulously crafted for those who demand a drive that looks as iconic as it feels.”

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BMW i3 50 xDrive Debuts As First Electric 3 Series – 469 Hp & 900 Km Range

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BMW i3 50 xDrive uses a twin electric motor setup with combined power output of 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque

BMW has officially taken the wraps off the i3 50 xDrive – the brand’s first all-electric version of the iconic 3 Series nameplate under its Neue Klasse platform. Positioned as the second model in the new-gen lineup, it indicates a major step forward with the presence of an all-new electronics architecture, design direction and EV hardware.

Power comes from a dual-motor setup – one mounted on each axle – delivering a combined power output of 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque. The performance gives the sedan all-wheel-drive capability while maintaining high efficiency standards according to the brand. The setup is based on BMW’s sixth-gen eDrive technology which also introduces an 800-volt system.

It is accompanied by newly developed high-voltage batteries using round cells and a cell-to-pack structure for improved energy density. Range is one of the biggest talking points here. BMW claims up to 900 km on a single charge on the WLTP cycle – making it one of the longest-range electric sedans globally and we can expect it to arrive in India in the near future.

Charging performance is equally impressive as well with DC fast charging speeds of up to 400 kW. Under ideal conditions, the car can add around 400 km of driving range in just 10 minutes. It also supports bidirectional charging functions such as Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid. A major part of its driving capabilities is handled by a new high performance computing system called the “Heart of Joy.”

It processes inputs up to ten times faster than previous systems and works alongside three additional control units – forming the core of BMW’s new software and electronics architecture. The setup also supports the next phase of assisted driving through BMW’s Symbiotic Drive system. In terms of design, the i3 evolves the classic 3 Series look with modern detailing.

It adopts a 2.5-box layout with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a sloping greenhouse. The front features a reinterpreted four-eyed look where the grille and headlamps merge into a single lighting element. At the rear, horizontal LED lights and flared wheel arches emphasise width and sportiness of the all new model.

On the inside, a new Panoramic iDrive system dominates the dashboard offering a wide digital interface while maintaining a driver-oriented layout. The interior makes full use of the EV platform – delivering improved roominess without losing the sporty character associated with the 3 Series. Production will take place at BMW’s Munich facility which has undergone extensive upgrades including a new body shop and advanced assembly lines.

Manufacturing activities will begin in August 2026 with customer deliveries scheduled from autumn. Within a year, the plant will transition to producing only fully electric Neue Klasse models.

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Hyundai’s India Lineup To Expand With Hybrids, New SUVs & A Localised EV

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Hyundai is working on multiple new products for India including new hybrid and electric offerings over the next 2-3 years

The future product lineup of Hyundai for India is shaping up to be far diverse with hybrid technology expected to play a central role in the coming years. While a compact electric SUV is on the horizon, the Korean brand is simultaneously preparing multiple hybrid models and evaluating premium global products for the domestic market.

At the higher end, Hyundai is exploring the possibility of introducing the Palisade, a large three-row SUV already sold overseas. Although not officially confirmed, it remains under consideration and could arrive around 2028 if approved. Globally, the Palisade Hybrid uses a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with electric assistance – delivering high fuel economy and performance.

If launched, it would likely become Hyundai’s most premium and feature-loaded offering in India. Closer to the core segment, Hyundai is also developing a brand-new three-row SUV  internally referred to as Ni1i. This model is expected to be positioned between the Alcazar and the now-discontinued Tucson and will target high volume sales.

Also Read: New Hyundai Compact Electric SUV Spotted Testing Again In India

Tucson PHEV

With a more spacious cabin and an upmarket approach compared to the Alcazar, it could debut around 2027 and may utilise a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid powertrain. Meanwhile, the next-gen Creta will continue to play a main role in Hyundai’s volume strategy. Known internally as SX3, the fourth-gen model is built on a brand new platform and is set to feature notable updates in styling and cabin departments.

Existing petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines are expected to continue but the biggest highlight will likely be the addition of a strong hybrid system. Before these larger plans materialise, Hyundai’s immediate focus is expected to be toward the mass market electric space. A heavily localised compact electric SUV is likely to debut in late 2026 and it has already been spotted testing multiple times on Indian roads.

Also Read: EV Discounts Of Up To Rs. 10 Lakh In March 2026 – Hyundai To Mahindra

This model will directly compete with established players such as the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV and recently launched Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. In addition to this, Hyundai may further strengthen its range by bringing in global products like the Bayon compact SUV while continuing updates to its existing portfolio including the recently refreshed Verna.

Hyundai appears to be taking a multi-pronged approach for India. While the upcoming compact EV targets high-volume segments, hybrids are expected to act as a bridge between conventional internal combustion engines and full electrification.

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Tata Sierra Bags 5-Star Safety Rating In BNCAP Crash Test

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Priced from Rs. 11.49 lakh (ex-showroom) to 21.29 lakh rupees (ex-showroom), the all-new Tata Sierra is among the safest mid-size SUVs available in India

Tata Motors’ continued progress in vehicle safety has seen the all-new Sierra bag the 5-star rating in the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP). The rating applies to both adult occupant protection and child occupant protection.

Of the maximum 32 points in adult occupant protection, the all-new Tata Sierra has scored 31.14 points, equivalent to a 5-star rating. To be more specific, the mid-size SUV has scored 15.14 out of the maximum 16 points in the frontal offset deformable barrier test and the full 16 points in side movable deformable barrier test.

The 0.86 points lost in the frontal offset deformable barrier test were due to an ‘adequate’ protection instead of ‘good’ for the driver dummy’s chest and tibiae and the front passenger dummy’s tibia. In the side pole impact test, the all-new Sierra has been given an ‘OK’ rating for adult occupant protection.

Also Read: Tata To Bring In More New EVs In 2026-27; Focus On Higher Localisation

In the child occupant protection, conducted using an 18-month dummy and a 3-year-old dummy, both rearward facing, the all-new Tata Sierra scored 44.73 out of the maximum 49 points. The 18-month dummy obtained 7.73 out of the maximum 8 points in the frontal crash test and the full 4 points in the side crash test. The 3-year-old dummy obtained full points in both these tests, though. Thus, the dynamic score in child occupant protection stood at 23.73 out of the maximum 24 points.

The all-new Tata Sierra scored the full 12 points for child restraint system installation. Despite the strong dynamic score and full points in child restraint system installation, the overall child occupant protection rating was let down by the vehicle assessment score, which stood at 9 out of the maximum 13 points.

Also Read: Tata Sierra EV Arriving Soon – Launch, Range, Features, Specs, Price & More

The crash tests were performed using the Adventure+ and Accomplished+ trims, which are among the top-most grades. However, they are applicable across the line-up, including the Smart+, Pure, Pure+, Adventure, and Accomplished equipment lines. Tata Motors equips the Sierra with six airbags, all-wheel disc brakes, and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) across the range. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a 360º HD camera system, Hill Descent Control (HDC), 13 advanced driver assistance systems, and more safety features are available in higher trims.

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