Topic
automotive
Manufacturing JSW, SAIC weigh capital infusion to lift MG Motor India output to 1 million units
JSW Group and SAIC are discussing additional capital for MG Motor India to scale Halol plant capacity to 1 million vehicles annually from 220,000. The venture, deploying Rs 3,500 crore, launched the Tomahawk EV and PHEV ahead of Diwali, targeting 70% localisation by 2027.
Manufacturing Tesla Faces Its Largest Recall Yet as China Targets Retractable Door Handles
China is recalling more than 2.9 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over electronic retractable door handles, marking the largest recall ever for Tesla and for China. The action also covers 1 million vehicles from eight Chinese automakers with flush door handles, plus nearly 50,000 imported Teslas for driver-monitoring issues.
Manufacturing Skoda CEO Seeks Joint Venture With Strong Local Identity for India EV Push
Skoda Auto will debut an electric vehicle in India in 2028, CEO Klaus Zellmer said, while the company accelerates talks to form a joint venture with a local partner. JSW Group is in negotiations to take a majority stake in Skoda's India unit. Zellmer expects the EV launch to make India one of Skoda's top three markets globally.
Manufacturing Central Dispatch Extends Biometric Security to Vehicle Pickup and Transfer
FreightWaves reported that Central Dispatch, owned by Cox Automotive, is rolling out Secure Vehicle Transfer, a biometric-based system that verifies carriers at pickup using geofenced, non-transferable digital credentials. The marketplace, which listed over 20 million vehicles last year, aims to close the manual gap in the vehicle release process.
Manufacturing Ferrari's First Electric Car Luce Fetches Record $40m at Sotheby's Charity Auction
Ferrari's first all-electric production car, the Luce, sold for $40m at a Sotheby's charity auction in California, setting a record for a new car at auction. The car, designed by Sir Jony Ive, faced criticism after its May launch yet raised more than 35 times its usual price. All proceeds benefit the Ferrari Foundation's educational programmes.
Trade ANPACT warns tariffs threaten truck trade as Mexico heavy-duty exports surge
Mexico heavy-duty truck exports rose 66.7% year over year to 13,117 units in July, while production climbed 51.8%, according to INEGI and ANPACT data. ANPACT warned that Section 232 tariffs and rising used-vehicle imports threaten truck trade and urged preservation of USMCA rules.
Manufacturing UK Considers Cutting 2030 EV Sales Target After Car Maker Pressure
The UK government may cut its 2030 electric vehicle sales target from 80% to as low as 50% after pressure from car makers, the BBC reported. A consultation running until late October will weigh lower targets, hybrid allowances, and extended flexibility for manufacturers.
Manufacturing Volvo Trucks OTA Updates Cut 100,000 Downtime Days, Save $60 Million
Volvo Trucks North America raised OTA software update compliance from 25% to over 80% of its 200,000-truck connected fleet, eliminating more than 100,000 days of downtime and saving roughly $60 million. Predictive maintenance cut problems by 70% and unplanned stops by 24%, according to FreightWaves.
Manufacturing E20 petrol: Carmakers' internal data flags contamination in 18 states; SIAM complaint withdrawn
Internal data from Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Mahindra flagged elevated chloride and moisture contamination in E20 petrol samples from 18 Indian states. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers withdrew its complaint to the government after saying some figures required authentication. The dispute highlights fuel-quality concerns in India's E20 rollout.
Manufacturing India Extends Electric Two-Wheeler Subsidies Till March 2028, Caps Incentive at Rs 5,000
India has extended electric two-wheeler incentives under the PM E-DRIVE scheme until March 31, 2028, offering Rs 2,500 per kWh capped at Rs 5,000 per vehicle. The government is also working on interest-subvention and credit-guarantee mechanisms to close the financing-cost gap for electric trucks.
Tractor sales grew 28% in July on better monsoon, rural demand
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Manufacturing PACCAR recalls 5,919 trucks over electrical defect in power distribution center
PACCAR is recalling 5,919 model year 2027 Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks after oil contaminated power distribution centers supplied by PKC Group North America. The defect can cut engine power, brakes, lights, wipers and defroster without warning. PACCAR notified NHTSA on July 27 and plans dealer/owner notifications Sept. 25.
Manufacturing International Motors to Lay Off 1,341 at Ohio Plants as Roshel Acquires Operations
International Motors will lay off 1,341 employees at two Springfield, Ohio, facilities when its asset sale to Roshel closes Oct. 2. Roshel plans to turn the site into a U.S. production hub for commercial, specialty and armored vehicles. The contract manufacturing deal that sustained the plant expires Sept. 30, 2026.
Manufacturing Indian Automakers Post Record July Sales as Maruti Crosses 2 Lakh, Tata EVs Double
Business Today reported record July wholesale numbers across Indian automakers, led by SUV launches. Maruti Suzuki crossed 2 lakh domestic sales for the first time in July, while Tata Motors' EV sales more than doubled to 15,217 units. Nissan's domestic wholesales surged 218% following the Tekton SUV launch.
Manufacturing China’s EV Market Surges Past 16 Million as Battery Waste Wave Arrives
China’s EV market has grown to more than 16 million annual vehicle sales, generating a rapidly expanding wave of retired lithium-ion batteries. WIRED reports that certified recyclers handled only about 25% of retired batteries in 2023, while informal operators continue to cause environmental damage. The country’s battery waste could reach 22.39 million metric tons by 2040.
Manufacturing Mahindra retains FY27 tractor growth guidance despite 18% jump in June-quarter volumes
Mahindra & Mahindra retained its FY27 guidance for mid-single-digit growth in the domestic tractor industry despite an 18% jump in June-quarter domestic volumes. The company sold 158,000 tractors with a 44.9% market share, while farm machinery revenue hit a record ₹362 crore. Management cited a high second-half base and monsoon uncertainty for the cautious outlook.
Manufacturing India's transport, petroleum ministries disagree on E20 mileage loss: 2-6% vs 3-5%
India's road transport ministry and petroleum ministry have given different official estimates of the fuel-efficiency loss when E20 petrol is used in vehicles designed for E10. The transport ministry cited a 2-6% reduction based on an ARAI-SIAM-Indian Oil study, while the petroleum ministry said it is generally 3-5%. Both ministries pointed to driving conditions, habits and maintenance as key variables.
Manufacturing Mahindra & Mahindra Records 34% Profit Jump Despite Commodity Cost Headwinds
Mahindra & Mahindra's June-quarter consolidated profit rose 34% YoY to ₹5,455 crore, with nearly 70% of the increase from core operating businesses despite 400-500 bps commodity-cost inflation. The electric vehicle business turned profitable, contributing ₹288 crore PBIT, while farm equipment added ₹197 crore. The results highlight the strength of Mahindra's diversified portfolio.
Manufacturing Jaguar Land Rover to cut hundreds of jobs after £1.9bn cyber attack loss
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a limited redeployment and displacement programme expected to result in fewer than 300 salaried and management job losses. The cuts follow a severe cyber attack in September 2025 that halted all manufacturing for five months, caused a 27% drop in production, and cost the company an estimated £1.9bn.
Manufacturing Mahindra Arm and SML Merge to Become India's 4th Largest Commercial Vehicle Player
According to Business Today (via Times of India), Mahindra's arm and SML (SML Isuzu) are combining to become the 4th largest commercial vehicle player in India. The report provides no further details on investment, capacity, or timeline.
Manufacturing PACCAR Q2 profit climbs as Class 8 truck demand firms and build rates increase
PACCAR reported Q2 2026 net income of $752 million, up 4% year over year, and earnings per share of $1.43, as Class 8 truck build rates increased on stronger orders and improved freight rates. The company posted record parts revenue of $1.75 billion and plans capital expenditures of $700-750 million for the full year.
Manufacturing Ferrari’s First EV, the Luce, Blends Italian Engineering With Apple-Inspired Design
Ferrari's first fully electric car, the Luce, engineered in Maranello and designed by Jony Ive's LoveFrom, has drawn mixed reactions from fans but offers a unique driving experience. CEO Benedetto Vigna, a physicist and former semiconductor executive, led the project. The car features a cab-forward layout, haptic-focused interior, and preproduction testing was completed in May.
Finance Government Clarifies: Using E20 Petrol Cannot Lead to Insurance Claim Rejection
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has clarified that using E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol cannot be a reason for insurance claim rejection. The government dismissed concerns about engine damage and fuel quality, stating the Ethanol Blending Programme is scientifically validated and has not caused widespread issues since its 2023 rollout.
Manufacturing VST Tillers Tractors to set up ₹100-crore global tech centre in Hosur
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd (VTTL) has broken ground on a ₹100-crore Global Tech Centre in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The facility will serve as the company's primary hub for R&D in next-generation farm machinery, including tractors, tillers, and electric and intelligent equipment, strengthening testing and validation capabilities.
Business Tesla’s $28.24B Quarter Fueled by Record Deliveries and Semi Production Ramp
Tesla posted Q2 2026 revenue of $28.24 billion, up 26% year over year, driven by record vehicle deliveries and the start of Tesla Semi production. Capital expenditures more than doubled to $5.8 billion as the company invests heavily in manufacturing expansion, including the Semi program and battery production.
Finance Aston Martin Secures £550m Loan Package to Bolster Balance Sheet Amid US Tariffs and Weak China Demand
Aston Martin has secured £550m in loans managed by HPS Investment, including a £450m senior secured-term loan and a £100m delayed draw facility, to strengthen its balance sheet and fund future product plans. The move comes after the company cut 600 jobs and reported a net loss of £493.2m for the last fiscal year, attributing the poor performance to US tariffs and weak demand in China. CFO Doug Lafferty said the financing 'significantly strengthens our liquidity.'
Manufacturing Range Rover GT Electric Grand Tourer to Be Built at Halewood – JLR Manufacturing Strategy Detailed
Range Rover has confirmed the all-new Range Rover GT, an electric grand tourer built on the EMA platform at its Halewood plant in the UK, launching in 2027. The model shares architecture with upcoming Evoque EV and other midsized JLR vehicles, while Jaguar's Type 01 uses a different platform built in Solihull. The move raises questions about intra-brand competition and manufacturing flexibility.
Technology Hidden Car Alarm Device in Millions of US Vehicles Is a Hacking Risk – Patch Now
UC San Diego researchers discovered a severe Bluetooth vulnerability in the KARR Security System aftermarket car alarm, installed by dealers in over 2 million vehicles across the US. The flaw allows attackers to unlock, track, or disable ignition from Bluetooth range. Acrisure Protection Group has released a firmware patch; owners must manually update via the KARR app.
Manufacturing Hyundai Lays Groundwork for Mass-Market EV Launch with Localisation Push in India
Hyundai Motor India is preparing to launch its first mass-market electric SUV this fiscal year, targeting the sub-Rs 15 lakh segment. The company is expanding charging infrastructure and deepening component localisation, having sold about 3,000 EVs in India so far this calendar year. The launch is expected before the implementation of CAFE III emission norms.
Trade UK Trade Deal: India Invites Applications for Car Import Quota Under CETA
India's DGFT has invited applications for the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for importing 0.378 million conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at a concessional 10% customs duty, down from 110%, under the India-UK CETA. The application window runs from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
Manufacturing Mexico Heavy-Duty Truck Production and Exports to US Rebound in June 2026
Mexico's heavy-duty truck manufacturing sector saw a rebound in June 2026, with production up 7.6% and exports up 3.2% year over year, driven by US market recovery. However, first-half totals remain below 2025 levels. Industry leaders urge preservation of USMCA rules.
Manufacturing MG Sets Target for New Energy Vehicles to Account for 80% of Sales by 2026
JSW MG Motor India expects new energy vehicles (NEVs) — including EVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids — to account for nearly 80% of its total sales in 2026, according to managing director Anurag Mehrotra. The company will launch its first plug-in hybrid later this financial year, built on the new ADAPT multi-energy platform. Industry-wide EV sales are growing at around 70%, and EV penetration in India crossed 8% in June 2026.
Manufacturing XPeng Launches L03 Budget EV in 60 Countries, Aiming for Global Volume Sales
XPeng unveiled its first globally released electric vehicle, the L03, priced starting at €35,600. The budget model boasts a 320-mile WLTP range, 20-minute fast charging, and a suite of standard features. It will launch across 60 countries in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, marking the Chinese automaker's mass-market push.
Regulations & Compliance India Issues Draft CAFE III Norms for Passenger Vehicles, Seeks Stakeholder Feedback
The Ministry of Power released draft Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) III norms for 2027-2032, targeting progressively tighter fuel consumption for M1 passenger vehicles. Stakeholder suggestions are invited by August 6, 2026.
Trade India-UK CETA Cuts British Car Prices But Scotch Waits for State Excise Clearances
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect, prompting immediate price cuts of up to Rs 75 lakh on JLR models and nearly 38% on McLarens. However, Scotch whisky and gin tariff cuts are delayed by at least a month as companies file revised costs with state excise departments. ISWAI estimated a 12-13% price reduction for imported whisky if benefits are passed on.
Manufacturing Navistar Defeats $16.5M Lawsuit Over Delayed Truck Deliveries
A Michigan federal jury sided with Navistar, rejecting a $16.5 million lawsuit by GLS LeasCo and Central Transport over delayed deliveries of 1,100 International tractors. The jury found Navistar not liable for damages, ending a multi-year dispute over production schedules and supply-chain disruptions.
Logistics Norfolk Southern Promotes Will DeShazor to VP of Intermodal and Automotive Operations
Norfolk Southern has promoted Will DeShazor to vice president of intermodal and automotive operations, effective immediately. DeShazor, a 21-year company veteran, previously served as AVP network optimization and has extensive terminal operations experience. He will report to Chief Operating Officer Brian Barr.
Technology Tesla Says It’s Building a Wheelchair-Accessible Robotaxi
Tesla revealed plans for a wheelchair-accessible robotaxi during a DC City Council hearing. The company is developing the vehicle in Texas but provided no timeline. Currently no US robotaxi company offers fully accessible driverless rides.
Manufacturing Volkswagen Planning to Cut Up to 100,000 Jobs Globally, Twice Previous Target
Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker is targeting up to 100,000 job cuts globally, double the previously stated 50,000. The move follows a steep profit decline, falling sales in China and the US, and rising competition from Chinese brands. Talks with unions and potential factory closures in Germany remain under discussion.
Commodities E20 Controversy: Why India's Ethanol Blending Roadmap Is Back in Spotlight
India's nationwide rollout of mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) in April 2025 has triggered a political row, with opponents citing a 2021 NITI Aayog report that recommended a phased transition. The controversy intensified after Attorney General R Venkataramani called E20 an 'experiment' during a Supreme Court hearing, raising concerns over vehicle compatibility and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturing Toyota Shifts Tacoma Production from Mexico to San Antonio in $3.6 Billion Texas Expansion
Toyota is investing $3.6 billion to expand its San Antonio, Texas, assembly plant, adding 2.5 million square feet and 2,000 jobs to accommodate Tacoma pickup production shifting from Baja California, Mexico. The transition will occur gradually over about four years, with full build-out by 2030, and Toyota maintains operations elsewhere in Mexico.
Manufacturing Kharif sowing drives Indian tractor sales past one lakh units in June 2026
India's tractor retail sales crossed the one-lakh-unit mark in June 2026, rising 25.3% year-on-year to 100,818 units, according to FADA. Mahindra & Mahindra, including its Swaraj brand, captured a combined 42.84% market share. Demand was boosted by kharif sowing preparations, improved farmer cash flow, and state subsidies in Odisha and Gujarat.
Manufacturing Battery-as-Service Models Cut EV Upfront Costs but Add Recurring Payment Obligations
Battery-as-Service (BaaS) plans in India cut the upfront price of EVs by up to Rs 8 lakh, but impose recurring per-km charges of Rs 2.3–5, minimum monthly usage commitments, and separate battery financing. Tata Motors, JSW MG Motor, Maruti Suzuki, and Citroen offer BaaS, with MG reporting 12-15% of EV sales through the model. The effective cost per km can rise sharply for low-mileage drivers, narrowing long-term savings.
Manufacturing UK High Court Rules Most Major Carmakers Did Not Use Illegal Emissions Defeat Devices
The UK High Court ruled that most major carmakers, including Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Nissan, Ford, and Peugeot-Citroen, did not use prohibited defeat devices in diesel vehicles. The court found that only one Mercedes strategy removed in 2015 and one Peugeot-Citroen strategy constituted defeat devices. A further trial in October will determine damages.
Manufacturing Auto Financiers Urge Industry to Embed Financing Seamlessly into Car Sales Process
Speaking at the FADA Finance and Insurance Summit 2026 in Mumbai, auto financiers urged the industry to move beyond generic EMI products toward embedded finance that integrates digital credit at the point of sale. Rajan Pental of Yes Bank noted that while customers arrive fully informed about cars, the multiplicity of lenders delays transactions. India's auto finance market remains dominated by traditional loans, with leasing at about 1.5% and subscription at 0.1%, contrasting with maturing platform-led models in Europe and the US.
Manufacturing NHTSA Backs Engine Manufacturers Association Request to Delay Seat Belt Rules for Heavy Trucks to 2030
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated a rulemaking to delay compliance for new seat belt anchorages rules for heavy-duty vehicles over 10,000 pounds, pushing the deadline from September 2027 to September 2030. The move responds to a petition from the Engine Manufacturers Association citing significant compliance burdens due to unique vehicle designs.
Manufacturing Mercedes-Benz and BMW Report Record H1 Sales in India, Electric Vehicles Surge 78%
India's luxury car market hit new highs in H1 2026, with Mercedes-Benz retailing 9,768 units (+9%) and BMW Group selling 9,075 units (+17%). Electric vehicles were the key growth driver: BMW's EV sales jumped 78% to 2,359 units, while Mercedes saw BEVs comprise 14% of Q2 sales. Executives cited improving charging infrastructure and strong order books, though supply constraints remain a challenge.
Manufacturing Tata Group targets $100bn automotive revenue by FY2031, says chairman N Chandrasekaran
Tata Group has set a $100 billion automotive revenue goal by FY2031, doubling from $50 billion in FY26. Jaguar Land Rover is expected to remain the largest contributor, while the commercial vehicle division, bolstered by the pending Iveco acquisition, aims for $35-40 billion. The group plans Rs 40,000 crore investment in domestic PV and £20 billion in JLR over five years.
Logistics Texas port fuels automotive expansion with Mitsubishi deal and major infrastructure upgrades
Port Freeport has been selected by Mitsubishi Motors North America as a key addition to its U.S. distribution network, with operations starting in April 2026. The port handled 198,475 vehicles in fiscal 2025 and is investing $11 million to modernize its Velasco Terminal, reinforcing its role as a growing automotive gateway on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Business Snap-on Acquires Diesel Laptops for $100 Million in Cash, Expanding Heavy-Duty Truck Diagnostics
Snap-on Incorporated acquired Diesel Laptops for $100 million in cash, closing on June 8, 2026, according to FreightWaves. The acquisition expands Snap-on's diagnostic capabilities into heavy-duty trucks and equipment, integrating Diesel Laptops into its Repair Systems & Information Group. The deal underscores the growing importance of advanced diagnostics in commercial vehicle repair.
Trade India's GST at 9: Experts Urge Reforms to Boost Auto Industry Export Competitiveness
As India's GST completes nine years, tax experts urge targeted reforms to resolve inverted duty structures on EVs, legacy cess credits, and refund inefficiencies. These changes aim to boost export competitiveness for India's third-largest automobile market, which contributes 7% to GDP and supports 37 million jobs.
Technology HCLTech wins $1.1bn AI-led deal with Mercedes for digital workplace transformation
HCLTech has won a $1.1 billion AI-led deal with Mercedes-Benz to establish an AI-driven operating model for the automaker's global digital workplace and enterprise network operations. The agreement runs from July 2026 through December 2031, with an option to extend five more years. Infosys previously handled parts of the engagement.
Commodities E20 Fuel Safe for Older Vehicles, Say Industry Experts as India Hits 20% Blending Target
Industry executives from Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Maruti Suzuki, and Hero MotoCorp assured that E20 ethanol-blended petrol is safe for vehicles manufactured before the mandate, citing extensive testing. India achieved 20% ethanol blending by December 2025, five years ahead of its original target, helping reduce crude oil imports.
Commodities ISMA defends E20 fuel, cites scientific evidence; remains silent on mileage drop claims
The Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has dismissed public concern over E20 ethanol blended petrol, stating that the conversation should be based on scientific evidence and official clarifications. While automakers claim mileage drop is marginal (3-3.5%), social media users report a 20-30% reduction. The government and industry bodies defend the fuel, citing emissions cuts and foreign exchange savings of over Rs 1.4 lakh crore.
Manufacturing India Proposes CAFE Credit Trading That Could Open New Revenue Stream for Car Makers
India's Ministry of Power has proposed a draft amendment introducing a formal credit-debit passbook for automakers under CAFE norms. Manufacturers exceeding fuel-efficiency targets can sell surplus credits to peers or buy them from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency at Rs 2,500 per gram of CO2 per km for FY23-FY27. The mechanism aims to ease compliance and create a potential revenue stream.
Manufacturing CNG, Hybrid, and EV Sales Hit Record 40% of India's Car Market in June
In June 2026, alternative-fuel passenger vehicles (CNG, hybrid, EV) reached a record 40.2% share of India's car retail sales, up from 33.3% a year ago. Retail sales hit an all-time June high of 410,853 units, a 28.6% increase. FADA attributed the shift to improved supplies, new model launches, and consumer preference for fuel-efficient powertrains.
Manufacturing Mahindra Tractors Launches YuvoTech+ 585 DI V1 Pan-India, Plans Seven New Models This Fiscal Year
Mahindra Tractors has launched the YuvoTech+ 585 DI V1 multi-purpose tractor across India. The company also announced plans to introduce seven new tractors and 12 new features this fiscal year, including products from the New Tractor range and Swaraj Protek.
Regulations & Compliance Presidential Pardon Ends Largest Diesel Tampering Prosecution, Exposing Emissions Compliance Gaps
President Trump pardoned 11 individuals, including diesel mechanics and tuners, who were convicted in one of the largest criminal diesel tampering cases. The pardon, signed on July 3, 2026, closed the case United States v. Diesel Freak LLC, highlighting the ongoing conflict between federal emissions standards and commercial fleet operations.
Manufacturing Bentley Torcal EV Enters a Luxury Electric Market in Crisis as Rivals Retreat
Bentley has revealed its first fully electric car, the Torcal SUV, with a range over 300 miles. The launch arrives amid a severe downturn in luxury EV demand, with competitors like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Audi scaling back or cancelling electric models.
Manufacturing Delhi EV Policy 2026 Poses Big Risk for Automakers If Other States Follow, Warns Morgan Stanley Report
Morgan Stanley warns that Delhi's newly notified EV Policy 2026, while having modest immediate impact due to Delhi's small sales share, could become a dangerous template for other states. The policy bans new ICE vehicle registrations in select segments by 2027-2028 and offers substantial incentives. Automakers with strong EV portfolios are better positioned, but the industry may resist wider adoption.