India-UK FTA Could Put More Made-In-India EVs On British Roads

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Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra And Tata Motors could plan to export locally built EVs to the United Kingdom courtesy of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement

The quota window under the India-UK Free Trade Agreement could give Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors an export opportunity for electric cars built in India. The agreement creates a duty-free allowance for cleaner passenger vehicles including electric, hybrid and hydrogen-powered models once the automotive provisions become active from the sixth year.

The structure begins at 17,600 vehicles in the sixth year and rises in stages to 88,000 units annually from the fifteenth year onwards. The quota applies only to passenger vehicles priced up to £80,000 while models above that level are excluded from the concession. The price categories are split into vehicles below £20,000, £20,000 to £40,000, and £40,000 to £80,000.

The lower two price categories will receive equal quota allocation under the pact. The highest price band will get a smaller share keeping the main focus on mass-market and mid-range vehicles. These points in the arrangement could suit Indian manufacturers because several export-ready models from the country sit in lower price brackets.

The agreement is scheduled to come into force on July 15. The duty-free vehicle quota will not begin immediately but the sixth-year start gives carmakers time to prepare products, homologation, shipping plans, retail partnerships and aftersales operations. The UK also gives Indian companies a right-hand-drive market where several packaging and cockpit requirements are already familiar.

The Maruti Suzuki e Vitara has already built export stimulus for the company in Europe. Maruti Suzuki has shipped around 36,000 units of the e Vitara to Europe within nine months of launch and the UK is being viewed as one of the notable markets in that plan. Mahindra is taking an evaluation-led approach before committing to the UK as it could create new prospects for EVs manufactured in India.

The company plans to study the UK case as part of a calibrated overseas expansion before deciding how to enter the market. Tata Motors’ position links the pact to sustainable mobility exports. The company said the quota-based system gives Indian-built EVs a structured entry into the United Kingdom while also protecting competitiveness in the domestic industry.

Tata already sells one of the larger EV portfolios in India which gives the company a base to assess export-ready models. The India-UK trade pact is also connected to the target of raising two-way commerce between the two countries to $100 billion by the end of this decade. The automotive quota will be only one part of that trade plan but it gives local PV makers an opening to examine the UK’s EV market.

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Tata Sierra EV Dual-Motor AWD Confirmed Via New Teaser

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Tata Sierra EV will feature two battery packs and possibly bi-directional charging too; AWD variant to help offer an expansive range

The Tata Sierra EV has been teased again ahead of its June 30 launch and the latest video confirms a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant for the electric SUV. The confirmation comes through a close-up shot of the “QWD Dual Motor” badge showing that the revived Sierra nameplate, now in electric form, will be sold in an expansive range.

The teaser places the Sierra EV in a desert setting where the SUV is shown moving across loose sand. The setting clearly points towards the added traction available from the dual-motor layout. The rear view also shows a full-width LED tail lamp, wide tailgate, blacked-out rear glass, roof spoiler, central Tata logo, and “Sierra.ev” lettering placed below it.

The wheel close-up reveals a dual-tone aero-style alloy design paired to Michelin tyres. The SUV also gets thick cladding around the lower body and squared wheel arches helping it retain the upright stance associated with the Sierra identity. The motion shots show a tall glasshouse, roof rails, a strong shoulder line and a relatively flat rear section.

The earlier front teaser had already revealed the face of the Sierra EV. The upper fascia gets a full-width LED daytime running light, while the main headlamp units sit lower on the bumper. The sealed front panel replaces a conventional grille, and vertical lamp housings are positioned on the outer edges. The clamshell bonnet has also been carried over, linking the EV visually to the petrol and diesel Sierra.

The battery details are yet to be announced by Tata Motors. Reports point towards two battery packs and the 65 kWh and 75 kWh units from the Harrier EV are being seen as possible options for the Sierra EV. The claimed driving range is expected to go past 500 km on a full charge while DC fast charging and bi-directional charging are also said to be part of the package.

The cabin is expected to use the same basic layout as the petrol and diesel Sierra. The equipment list could consist of a triple-screen dashboard, JBL audio, Dolby Atmos support, dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, head-up display, connected vehicle functions, electric parking brake, powered tailgate, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Level 2 ADAS.

The Sierra EV will be positioned below the Harrier EV but above Tata’s smaller electric SUVs. Rivals will comprise the Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Kia Carens Clavis EV, MG ZS EV, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella.

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Aprilia Tuono 457 Special Edition Launched At Rs. 3.99 Lakh

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Aprilia Tuono 457 Special Edition gets added flyscreen, revised ergonomics, recalibrated suspension, upgraded seat, adjustable brake lever, new liveries, etc

Aprilia has announced the prices of the Tuono 457 Special Edition in India as it costs Rs. 3.99 lakh (ex-showroom Maharashtra). It helps the expand the lineup with new features and two heritage-linked paint schemes to the twin-cylinder naked motorcycle. The special version is offered in Mamba Black and Puma Grey and pre-bookings have opened at select Aprilia dealerships across the country.

The new edition takes visual inspiration from the 2006 Aprilia Tuono 1000R. The updated livery uses sharper decals, a revised Aprilia logo and darker body tones to separate it from the standard Tuono 457. The compact flyscreen sits close to the headlamp and uses a smoked finish – adding a more aggressive face while offering extra wind protection at higher speeds.

The rider triangle has been revised through a taller handlebar and an updated saddle. The raised bar gives a more upright seating position and thereby reducing pressure on the wrists, shoulders and lower back during city use and longer rides according to the brand. The seat uses a high-resilience foam core which reduces vibration transfer from the road and engine.

The suspension setup has also been recalibrated for Indian road conditions. The initial stroke is softer to deal better with potholes and speed breakers while compression damping has been revised for varying surfaces. The preload adjustability at both ends gives riders room to alter the setup according to usage and load.

The adjustable brake lever is another key addition on the Special Edition. The lever span can be altered according to hand size – helping the rider apply braking force more progressively. The setup should improve reach, reduce wrist fatigue and offer better control during traffic riding or sudden braking situations. Besides these, no other changes have been made.

Power comes from the same 457 cc parallel-twin engine used on the regular Tuono 457. The liquid-cooled motor produces 47.6 hp and 43.5 Nm of torque and is mated to a six-speed transmission. The engine is paired to Aprilia electronic systems such as ride-by-wire throttle and multi-level traction control while the lightweight aluminium chassis is a key part of the motorcycle.

The equipment package comprises a TFT digital instrument cluster, full-LED lighting, an immobiliser and three-level adjustable LED illumination. The dashboard receives data through the CAN line and also works as part of the self-diagnosis system. The cluster retains lap-timing support and can store data from the previous 40 laps.

The Tuono 457 Special Edition also gets a four-year or 48,000 km warranty whichever comes earlier. The official accessory list covers a passenger seat cover, USB socket, helmet cable lock, tyre pressure monitoring system, outdoor vehicle cover, electronic anti-theft system, fork sliders, shorter mudguard, quickshifter up/down and sintered front brake pads.

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5 New Compact SUVs Worth Waiting For In India – Mahindra To Renault

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From Mahindra to Skoda, both domestic and global brands planning to launch new compact SUVs within one and a half years

While mid-size SUVs have been stealing the headlines for nearly a year, in the coming months, the attention will turn to the compact SUV segment. Over the next 12 to 18 months, at least five new compact SUVs will be coming to Indian showrooms. In the third quarter of this year, Maruti Suzuki is expected to launch the facelifted version of the Brezza.

The new Brezza should feature exterior changes such as redesigned bumpers, revised headlamp graphics, a new radiator grille and lower air intake grille, and new 16-inch alloy wheels. The interior changes will likely include a redesigned dashboard, a larger, 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, electric adjustment for the driver’s seat, and a virtual instrument cluster.

Maruti Suzuki will likely take this opportunity to introduce a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that develops 99 hp and 147.6 Nm of torque, as well as an underbody CNG fuel tank that improves the boot space in the CNG variant.

Also Read: These 5 New Maruti Suzuki Cars Hitting Showrooms Very Soon In India

Image Source: carindianews/instagram

In September, Skoda will launch a Sportline trim of the Kylaq, targeting customers looking for sportier styling. The Kylaq Sportline will be identified by its special exterior styling, which could include gloss black radiator grille, ORVMs, and 16-inch alloy wheels, darkened headlamps and tail lamps, and gloss black garnishes. The interior will likely be fully black, while mechanical changes are unlikely.

In early 2027, Mahindra will introduce the production version of the Vision.S concept. The new model will debut the company’s NU_IQ platform and likely slot between the XUV 3XO and Thar. It will have a boxy exterior and high ground clearance, creating the impression of a proper SUV. The interior would also have some SUV-like design cues, but focus more on comfort, space, and connectivity than a typical 4×4 like the Thar. It will likely be offered with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine.

Also Read: Mahindra Vision S (Mini Scorpio N) Spied Testing Again In Production Form

Sometime in the second quarter of the year, Kia will likely launch the next-gen Sonet. Spy shots suggest the redesigned model will have a more contemporary design with elements such as split headlamps, a sleeker greenhouse, and slimmer taillights.

The same goes for the interior, where these images indicate a triple-display setup comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 5-inch climate touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The next-gen Sonet will likely be wider and have a longer wheelbase for improved space, but its engines and transmissions are expected to be shared with the current model. A hybrid variant is planned, but it won’t go on sale until 2028 or 2029.

Image Source: Yash Suthar/X

In the third quarter, Renault will likely introduce the production version of the Bridger concept. Featuring a rugged exterior and a contemporary interior, the Renault Bridger will combine the robust presence of a body-on-frame SUV with the refinement of a monocoque one, just like the Mahindra Vision.S concept’s production version.

This model is expected to be among the most spacious SUVs in its segment and also have an impressive ground clearance. Renault will likely offer it with an all-new 1.2-litre petrol engine in turbocharged and naturally aspirated versions and introduce hybrid and pure electric variants in a phased manner.

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3 New Honda Cars Launching Within The Next 12 Months

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New hybrid, ICE, and pure electric models to bring new excitement to Honda showrooms in India in the next nine months

As part of its renewed efforts to strengthen its presence in India, Honda announced last year plans to launch ten new cars by 2030. The first of these launches was the new City that arrived in showrooms last month. Within a year, Honda will launch three more of the planned ten new cars.

1. Honda ZR-V

The Honda ZR-V is the Japanese automaker’s new global compact SUV positioned between the HR-V and CR-V. It measures 4,567 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 1,621 mm and has a 2,655 mm wheelbase. Honda offers the ZR-V in petrol and hybrid variants, and it is bringing the latter to India.

The ZR-V Hybrid has a 181 hp powertrain that delivers a fuel economy of 22.8 km/l. Honda will offer it with features such as an 8-way power driver seat with a memory function, a 4-way power front passenger seat, a kick-activated power tailgate, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.2-inch HD digital instrument cluster, eight airbags, and a host of advanced driver assistance systems. The company plans to import it as a CBU from Japan and launch it in July 2026.

Also Read: 2026 Honda Elevate Facelift Spied On Test, Launch This Year

2. New Honda Elevate

The Honda Elevate, launched in September 2023, will likely get a facelift in the third quarter of the year. The mid-cycle refresh should bring restyled bumpers, redesigned headlamp and tail lamp graphics, new upper and lower grilles, and new 17-inch wheels. Inside, Honda could introduce new features such as front-seat ventilation, power adjustment for the driver’s seat, and a panoramic sunroof.

The Honda Elevate is unlikely to see any mechanical changes with the facelift. We expect the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 89 kW (119 hp) and 145 Nm of torque, linked to a 6-speed MT or a CVT. Currently, this setup gives a fuel economy of 15.31 km/l and 16.92 km/l, respectively.

Also Read: 3 New Midsize SUVs From Tata, Nissan And Honda Arriving Soon

3. Honda 0 Alpha

The Honda 0 Alpha will be the brand’s first EV in India, and challenge the likes of Hyundai Creta Electric, Maruti e Vitara, Toyota urban Cruiser Ebella, and Mahindra BE 6. The electric mid-size SUV will debut the brand’s new design language for EVs that was earlier planned to be introduced in the Honda 0 SUV, which has now been cancelled.

Honda reportedly plans to offer the 0 Alpha with two LFP battery pack options, both of which will comprise cells imported from Indonesia. The wheelbase will be somewhere in the 2,700-2,800 mm range. The company will launch the electric mid-size SUV in the first quarter of 2027.

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4 New Tata SUVs Launch Confirmed By March 2027

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Tata Motors will continue the SUV onslaught with the launch of at least four new ICE and EV models in the next 8-9 months In India

Tata Motors has lined up multiple new SUVs for launch in this financial year (FY27) in the Indian market. These will be a mix of both ICE and EV models which will be introduced in a phased manner by March 2027 in our country. While the Sierra and Safari will receive their all-electric versions later this year, the first Avinya production-ready model will be launched by early 2027. In addition, it is speculated that the Sierra ICE will get a new range-topping variant with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Let’s talk in detail about the 4 new Tata SUVs confirmed to launch by March 2027 in India.

1. Tata Sierra EV

Tata Sierra EV will debut on June 30, 2026 in the Indian market. The brand has released multiple teasers of the upcoming all-electric SUV ahead of its launch. The Sierra EV will be the company’s seventh electric model in India after the Tiago, Tigor, Nexon, Punch, Curvv and Harrier. To be positioned between Curvv EV and Harrier EV, it will carry the same design as the ICE version, except for a few EV-specific changes. We could see the triple-screen setup in the cabin alongside other premium features while the 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs will be shared with the Harrier EV.

Also Read: Tata Sierra EV Teased Ahead Of Launch In Just Over A Week; All Key Details

2. Tata Sierra ICE AWD

Tata Sierra will soon get a new top-end variant with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. It will be a long time since any petrol/diesel engine powered Tata SUV will offer the option of AWD as the Hexa was the last such model before it was axed in 2020 due to stringent BS6 emission norms. Based on the company’s new All-Terrain Ready Omni-Energy and Geometry Scalable Architecture (ARGOS) platform, it is likely to launch by the end of 2026. The 1.5L direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine, in all likelihood, will receive the AWD system while retaining the same power and torque figures.

3. Tata Safari EV

A few months from now, say around Oct-Nov, during the festive season of Diwali 2026, Tata Safari EV will be presented to the world as the brand’s flagship electric SUV with 7-seater configuration. The three-row all-electric SUV, underpinned by the acti.ev+ platform, will be available with 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery options with a maximum range of 500+ km on a full charge. Tata Safari EV price could start from Rs 22 lakh while going as high as Rs 30 lakh for the top-end variants (ex-showroom). Identical to the Harrier EV and upcoming Sierra EV, it will also get Tata’s Quad-Wheel-Drive (QWD) setup.

Also Read: Tata, Hyundai, Toyota & Kia Ready Major New Electrified SUV Launches In India

4. Tata Avinya EV

Built on the Gen 3 EV skateboard architecture, Tata Avinya EV will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2027. It is likely to come with several premium elements such as electric vehicle architecture (EMA platform), 22-inch wheels, butterfly doors, panoramic sunroof, voice commands, ultra-fast charging support, and 600+ km range. Tata Avinya X, internally codenamed P2, will be locally manufactured in India at JLR’s production facility in Panapakkam, Tamil Nadu. The 5-seater all-electric SUV, being the first model with Avinya badging in India, will be priced between Rs 30-40 lakh (ex-showroom).

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Hyundai To Launch New Compact EV To Rival Punch EV

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Value-priced Tata Punch.ev’s monopoly in its segment to be challenged by a new entrant from Hyundai early next year

Hyundai’s first three EVs in India, namely the Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, and Creta Electric, haven’t met with much success. The company is now working on the fourth EV, which will be a significantly more localised, India-specific product and is expected to be its most crucial launch in this space.

The upcoming Hyundai electric model will be an “A+” segment SUV that would compete with the Tata Punch.ev. Hyundai has started testing its prototypes with the production design on public roads, and spy shots of these test mules have revealed several details. The company has given the upcoming model a proper SUV look with a squarish, tall body, as well as high ground clearance, protective cladding, chunky alloy wheels, and raised roof rails.

Internally known by the codename ‘HE1i’, Hyundai’s compact EV will have futuristic details as well, aimed at appealing to young, tech-savvy customers. Sleek front and rear lights would integrate the company’s signature parametric pixel theme, while flush-fitted door handles would bring a touch of sleekness and add to the sophistication brought by those technical-looking lights.

Also Read: Upcoming Hyundai Bayon SUV For India; Top 5 Things You Should Know

Inside, the upcoming Hyundai EV should be clean and highly digital, incorporating a new design language. It will debut a 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both running a new software based on Android Automotive OS. Hyundai would include physical controls for basic functions such as speaker volume, AC temperature and fan speed, and seat ventilation to ensure good ergonomics, though.

The Hyundai HE1i will likely be offered in two variants, one with a lower-output motor and a smaller battery pack and one with a higher-output motor and a larger battery pack. Both battery packs will likely integrate LFP cells sourced locally from Exide Energy. The larger unit should have an energy storage capacity of around 40 kWh and deliver a range of 475-500 kilometres.

Also Read: Tata, Hyundai, Toyota & Kia Ready Major New Electrified SUV Launches In India

Hyundai plans to launch the compact EV in the first quarter of 2027 and could unveil it at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2027 on 4 February 2027. The company will likely price the new electric SUV from just under Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

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