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Mfg Automotive
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.
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.
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.
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.
Manufacturing Tractor Industry Growth to Moderate to 1-4% in FY27 on Weak Monsoon Outlook: ICRA
According to ICRA, the tractor industry's volume growth is expected to moderate to 1-4% in FY27, down from 23.5% in FY26, due to a high base and a below-normal monsoon forecast. The Indian Meteorological Department projects below-normal rainfall due to El Nino, posing risks to kharif production and farm incomes. Despite this, margins and credit profiles of OEMs remain healthy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Manufacturing Texas Woman Sues Tesla for $1 Million After Fatal Autonomous Crash into Home
Jennifer Barbour filed a lawsuit against Tesla and a driver after a Tesla Model 3 crashed into her home, killing her 76-year-old mother. The driver claimed the car was using full self-driving technology. Tesla CEO Elon Musk and AI VP Ashok Elluswamy denied the technology was at fault, arguing the driver overrode the system.
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.
Manufacturing GEMA President Challenges Critics to Prove Ethanol-Blended Fuel Damages Vehicles
Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA) President C.K. Jain has challenged critics to prove that ethanol-blended petrol damages vehicle engines, stating that no such incidents have been reported by authorized service centres. He acknowledged a 3-5% drop in mileage but argued that the benefits of reduced pollution and foreign exchange savings outweigh the loss. Jain also rebutted claims of excessive water usage, noting that only 5 litres of water are needed to produce one litre of ethanol, with ongoing efforts to reduce that to 3.5 litres.
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.
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.
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 Taiwan Battery Startup ProLogium Plans 2027 Mass Production of Solid-State Batteries in France
ProLogium, a Taiwanese battery startup, is accelerating solid-state battery production with a new gigafactory in Dunkirk, France, backed by a €1.5 billion grant. The company aims to start mass production by 2027, leveraging geopolitical advantages as buyers seek non-Chinese suppliers. CEO Vincent Yang sees an opportunity in the next-generation battery technology race against Chinese and Asian conglomerates.
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.
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.
MINI 12 Best Movies to Stream This Month: Poor Things, I Am Frankelda, and More
WIRED has selected the 12 best movies to stream this month, featuring Yorgos Lanthimos's Poor Things on Netflix, the stop-motion Mexican horror I Am Frankelda, and the Bill & Ted trilogy on Prime Video. The list also includes Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence on Hulu and early James Bond films on Criterion Channel.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Manufacturing Polestar US Sales to End in 2027 Due to Chinese Tech Rule, Dealers Affected
Polestar announced it will cease US vehicle sales beginning with the 2027 model year after the Commerce Department denied authorization under a rule restricting Chinese-made connected-vehicle technology. Dealers like Matthew Haiken of Polestar Short Hills have invested millions and express frustration with both Polestar and the government.
India's EV Boom Could Save Rs 1 Lakh Crore in Oil Imports by 2030, Says SBI Report
According to an SBI report, India could save nearly Rs 1 lakh crore if electric vehicles account for 20% of the market by 2030. The report projects 35 lakh additional EVs will replace petrol vehicles between 2027 and 2030, and notes that EV registrations are climbing rapidly. However, charging infrastructure must keep pace, with fast chargers only 30% of the network.
India Car Sales Surge in June 2026 as Tata, Maruti, Mahindra Lead Strong Recovery
India's passenger vehicle industry ended Q1 FY27 on a strong footing, with Tata Motors reporting 69% growth and record EV sales, Maruti Suzuki up 19.3%, Mahindra & Mahindra up 37%, and Hyundai impacted by a supplier fire. The data signals resilient consumer demand, particularly for SUVs and electric vehicles.
Hero MotoCorp to invest Rs 3,200 crore in Andhra Pradesh, expand Tirupati plant output and create 4,000 jobs
Hero MotoCorp plans to invest Rs 3,200 crore in Andhra Pradesh over three to five years, expanding its Tirupati plant capacity from 6 lakh to 12-15 lakh units annually. The investment includes Rs 750 crore for a second Global Parts Centre, creating around 4,000 jobs.
Delhi EV Policy 2026: Rs 15,000 Crore Plan to Boost Electric Mobility and Phase Out Petrol Two-Wheelers
The Delhi government officially notified the Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy 2026, effective July 1, 2026, with a Rs 15,000 crore investment plan, over 30,000 charging points, and full road tax exemption for electric cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh. The policy also phases out registration of petrol two-wheelers from April 1, 2028, and restricts subsidies to battery electric vehicles only.
Manufacturing Dallas Truck Shop Sends Three Teams to Volvo VISTA World Championship in Sweden
Bruckner Truck Sales in Dallas has qualified three teams for the Volvo VISTA World Championship finals in Sweden, out of roughly 200 competing globally. Technician Dayan, who previously represented Volvo Bulgaria, highlights the training and technical challenges of European-spec trucks.
Manufacturing Ford rehires over 300 veteran engineers after AI quality checks fail to match human expertise
Ford has rehired more than 300 veteran quality inspectors after AI-driven quality checks failed to live up to expectations. The automaker admitted that automated tools lacked the training and expertise of experienced technicians and has since brought back human engineers to train AI systems and mentor younger workers. The move comes as Ford returned to the top of the JD Power Initial Quality Study for the first time since 2010.
India Electric Passenger Vehicle Sales May Cross 3 Lakh Units in 2026
India's electric passenger vehicle (EPV) sales are expected to exceed 3 lakh units in 2026 for the first time, compared to under 2 lakh in 2025, according to Frost & Sullivan and Crisil. Growth is supported by doubling of model options, improved battery range, and rising fuel prices widening EV total cost of ownership advantage. Vahan data shows registrations nearing 1.5 lakh so far in 2026.
Manufacturing California Incentive Stack Could Cut Tesla Semi Price to $50,000—But Conditions Apply
A viral claim suggests California small fleets can buy a Tesla Semi for $50,000, 83% off the $290,000 sticker price. The claim is partly true: two state incentive programs—HVIP and the new California Clean Fuel Reward—can be stacked to approach that discount. However, the $50,000 figure depends on vehicle class, program eligibility, and the buyer qualifying for both incentives, and the exact CCFR rebate is not flat.
Volkswagen considers 4 German factory closures, 1 lakh job cuts amid China competition and US tariffs: Report
Volkswagen is considering closing four factories in Germany and increasing job cuts to up to 1,00,000, according to Reuters. The proposals, to be discussed on July 9, are part of a massive restructuring driven by competitive pressure from Chinese automakers and weak demand. More than 45,000 additional jobs could be affected, adding to 50,000 planned layoffs.
Manufacturing Amble One: $25,000 Electric Buggy From Apple, Audi Alumni Targets Lightweight Mobility
Amble, a Lisbon-based startup founded by former Apple, Audi, and Ford employees, launched the Amble One, a $25,000 lightweight electric buggy inspired by the NASA lunar rover. The vehicle weighs under 450 kg, targets L7e classification, and emphasizes a manufacturing-driven design philosophy using materials like aluminum, leather, cotton, and cork.
Manufacturing A year after Pioneer launch, Mack Trucks sees sold-out OTR orders and product updates
Mack Trucks, a year after launching the Pioneer over-the-road truck, announced that its order book for both the Pioneer and Anthem is sold out through the end of 2026. The company also detailed product updates including a larger sleeper and revised bumper-to-back-of-cab dimensions, emphasizing comfort, safety, efficiency, and uptime.
Manufacturing Ferrari Marketing Chief Quits Weeks After Electric Luce Launch Backlash
Enrico Galliera has stepped down as Ferrari's chief marketing and commercial officer after 16 years, just weeks after the unveiling of the company's first electric car, the Luce, triggered widespread backlash. He will be replaced by former BMW Italy head Massimiliano Di Silvestre in July.
Manufacturing India’s E100 ethanol push could trigger ₹50,000 crore auto industry investment
India's push for E100 ethanol could trigger ₹37,000-50,000 crore in auto industry investment, including ₹22,000-30,000 crore in R&D and ₹15,000-20,000 crore in localisation and manufacturing upgrades. However, flex-fuel vehicles are expected to account for only a low single-digit share of the market by 2030, and the investment must compete with ongoing electrification spending.
Manufacturing Slate EV Truck Hits $24,950 Price With 205-Mile Range, Targets Manufacturing Disruption
Slate, an EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, launched the most affordable electric truck in the US at $24,950. The base model gets a 37% range boost to 205 miles, and the company claims 180,000 reservations. With half the parts of a typical pickup and a DIY repair program, Slate's approach could challenge conventional truck manufacturing.
Manufacturing Tesla Crash That Killed a Woman in Texas Under Federal Investigation
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a special crash investigation into a fatal accident on 19 June in Texas, where a Tesla Model 3 drove into a house, killing a 76-year-old woman. Local police reported the driver said the vehicle was operating with an automated driving assistance system at the time.
Manufacturing NHTSA Investigates Fatal Tesla Crash Involving Automated Driving in Texas
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a Special Crash Investigation into a fatal Tesla crash on 19 June in Texas. The driver, who was not intoxicated, told police the car was using an automated driving assistance system when it drove into a home, killing a woman. Tesla has not commented.
Manufacturing Aeva 4D LiDAR Selected by Bendix for Next-Gen Class 8 Truck Safety Systems
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has selected Aeva to integrate its 4D LiDAR sensors and perception software into next-generation collision mitigation systems for Class 8 mass-production trucks. The program, building on Bendix's Fusion ADAS platform, targets one of the first LiDAR-based L2+ driver assistance solutions for commercial vehicles. Roughly 300,000 new Class 8 trucks enter the North American market annually.
Manufacturing Mexico's Truck Factories Find Footing After Rough Start to 2026
Mexico's heavy-duty truck sector posted its strongest export month of 2026 in May, with production nearly matching year-earlier levels. Exports climbed from about 5,000 units in January to nearly 12,000 in May, driven by demand from the US market. Freightliner led production with 9,348 trucks, while wholesale sales rose but retail demand remained weak.
India enters Mercedes-Benz top 15 markets for first time; manufacturer reaffirms local production commitment
Mercedes-Benz India has entered the company's top 15 markets globally for the first time, with India ranking fifth for the Maybach brand. Board member Mathias Geisen visited India for the launch of the new S-Class plug-in hybrid, highlighting the company's long-term local manufacturing commitment. Globally, Mercedes sold 1.8 million vehicles last year, with China sales declining but other markets growing.
Mercedes-Benz to Raise Prices 1-2% in India on Exchange Rate and War Cost Pressures
Mercedes-Benz will increase car prices in India by 1-2% to cope with exchange rate volatility and war-related cost pressures, marking the third hike in 2026 totaling up to 4%. The automaker also launched a new plug-in hybrid S-Class variant, its first PHEV for India, priced between Rs 2.2-2.4 crore, with deliveries starting in Q4.
India Auto Sales Hit Record High in May 2026 with Double-Digit Growth Across Segments
India's automobile industry recorded its highest-ever sales for May 2026, with passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, and three-wheelers all posting double-digit growth, according to SIAM data. Maruti Suzuki led the passenger vehicle segment with a 50% market share. Rajesh Menon, SIAM Director General, attributed the surge to a lower base, reduced GST rates, and easier financing.
MINI Cassette Revival: Miko Player Signals Niche Resurgence in Analog Audio Equipment Trade
A TechRadar review of the Miko cassette player by Gadhouse highlights a personal rediscovery of physical music media. The article notes a broader trend of listeners abandoning streaming algorithms for traditional formats, which could influence global trade flows in cassette tape and player imports and exports. No specific trade data is provided, but the trend suggests niche opportunities for audio equipment suppliers.
Rivian's CEO on Tesla's Cybertruck, Ferrari's Luce, and What Happens If the R2 Fails
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, in a WIRED interview, discusses the critical importance of the R2 SUV for the company's survival, comments on Tesla's Cybertruck niche market, and reveals partnerships with Volkswagen ($5.8B) and Uber (up to 50,000 robotaxis). Rivian has sold 175,000 vehicles since 2021 versus Tesla's 8 million, and lost $3.6 billion in 2025.
MINI Engadget Celebrates 25 Years of Game Boy Advance with Favorite Titles
On the 25th anniversary of the Game Boy Advance's US release, Engadget revisits the handheld console's hardware innovations and standout games, including Advance Wars and Golden Sun. The article covers the GBA's specs, design evolution, and impact on portable gaming.
Manufacturing Convertible Car Sales Plummet 90% as SUVs Dominate European Market
Sales of new convertible cars in the UK have fallen by nearly 90% over the past 20 years, from 109,171 in 2005 to just 11,484 last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The decline coincides with the rise of SUVs, which accounted for 59% of European car sales in 2024. Industry experts cite higher manufacturing costs and shifting consumer preferences toward practicality.
Manufacturing Jason Momoa Electrifies Vintage Harley-Davidsons and Land Rovers With Conversion Kits From Electrogenic
UK-based Electrogenic has converted five of Jason Momoa's classic vehicles—including two Land Rovers and three vintage Harley-Davidsons—to electric power for HBO's On the Roam. The company now offers plug-and-play conversion kits for owners of similar vintage vehicles, with prices starting at $19,500 for Harley-Davidson kits and $32,000 for Land Rover Defender kits.
Manufacturing Škoda Peaq Large SUV to Become Automaker’s Most Expensive EV Yet
Škoda has revealed sketches and prototypes of the Peaq, a large electric SUV expected to be its most expensive model. Built on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform, the three-row vehicle targets the premium segment with an 89-kWh battery and minimalist design.
Tata Motors Poised to Benefit from India's Rs 9,585 Crore Scrappage Scheme for Ageing Commercial Vehicles
Tata Motors, with 11 registered vehicle scrapping facilities across 10 states and capacity to dismantle more than 1.9 lakh vehicles annually, is well-positioned to benefit from India's Rs 9,585 crore scheme to replace ageing commercial vehicles in Delhi-NCR. The company holds over 50% market share in medium and heavy trucks in key northern states and operates its scrapping network under the Re.Wi.Re initiative.
Domestic tractor sales cross one lakh units for third straight month in May; exports top 10,000 units
India's tractor industry posted domestic sales of 1,08,229 units in May 2026, marking the third consecutive month above one lakh units, according to the Tractor and Mechanization Association (TMA). Exports recovered to 10,165 units, the highest in over a year. Analysts attribute the growth to favorable rural sentiment and GST reduction, though monsoon performance remains a key variable.