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    New Motor Vehicle Fines 2025 – Traffic Penalties Increased Up to 10x

    Image – Islampur PoliceIndia has implemented stricter traffic penalties from March 1, 2025, with fines increasing up to 10 times for major violations. The government’s latest move aims to curb reckless driving, ensure road safety, and enforce stricter compliance with traffic laws. The revised penalties include heavier fines, potential jail time, and community service, sending a strong message to traffic offenders.
    Major Traffic Violations and Their New Penalties
    Drunken Driving: The penalty for driving under the influence has been raised to Rs 10,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment. Repeat offenders will face ?15,000 fine and up to 2 years in jail, a significant jump from the previous Rs 1,000 – Rs 1,500 fine.
    Using Mobile While Driving: Distracted driving is now taken more seriously, with fines soaring from Rs 500 to Rs 5,000 for using a mobile phone while driving.
    No Helmet / No Seatbelt: Riding without a helmet, previously fined at Rs 100, will now cost Rs 1,000, and your license may be suspended for three months. Not wearing a seatbelt also comes with a Rs 1,000 fine.
    New Motor Vehicle Fines 2025
    Driving Without Documents:
    – No valid driving license – Rs 5,000 fine, possible three months in jail and community service.– No insurance – Rs 2,000 fine (Rs 4,000 for repeat offenders).– No pollution certificate – Rs 10,000 fine and/or six months in jail with community service.
    Triple Riding & Dangerous Driving: Carrying more than two passengers on a two-wheeler will now cost Rs 1,000, while dangerous driving or racing attracts a Rs 5,000 fine.
    Not Yielding to Emergency Vehicles: Blocking ambulances or emergency response vehicles will result in a Rs 10,000 fine.
    Signal Jumping & Overloading:
    – Jumping traffic signals now incurs a Rs 5,000 fine.– Overloading vehicles now attracts a Rs 20,000 penalty, a drastic jump from the earlier Rs 2,000 fine.
    Juvenile Offenders: Minors caught driving will lead to a Rs 25,000 fine, 3 years imprisonment, cancellation of the vehicle’s registration, and a ban on obtaining a driving license until 25 years of age.
    With steeper fines, stricter enforcement, and harsher penalties, the government hopes to reduce accidents, promote disciplined driving, and improve road safety across India. Authorities have urged motorists to adhere to traffic laws to avoid heavy penalties and ensure safer roads for all. More

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    Tata Avinya Steering Wheel Patented – Will Not Get Digital Logo Like Nexon, Harrier

    Tata Avinya Electric Car Steering WheelCompared to the existing steering wheel seen with Tata cars, the one for Avinya has a more premium and polished appearance
    As electrification gains momentum, Tata Motors will be introducing multiple new EVs in the coming years. At the 2025 Bharat Expo, the company had showcased three of its upcoming EVs – Harrier EV, Sierra EV and the Avinya Concept. Tata has now patented the steering wheel to be used with the Avinya EV.
    Tata Avinya steering wheel patented
    For several of its cars like Nexon EV, Curvv EV, Harrier and Safari, Tata already utilizes a striking design for the steering wheel. It has the illuminated Tata logo in the centre. The one to be used with the Avinya has a familiar two-spoke design, but there are several distinctive features. For example, the centre of the steering wheel gets ‘Avinya’ badging instead of the Tata logo. Avinya will be among the most premium range electric cars from Tata Motors. As such, it must emphasize its own brand identity.
    Tata Avinya Electric Car Steering Wheel
    While existing Tata cars have the steering wheel centre pad in glossy black finish, Avinya utilizes a leather-wrapped centre pad. The various corners and surfaces have a smooth, polished appearance, which further enhances the overall look and feel. Avinya’s steering wheel has various touch-based controls for seamless access to the car’s functions. On the left side, users will be able to access controls for the calls and music. And on the right, the steering wheel will have dedicated tabs for the ADAS and cruise control. The steering wheel is expected to be offered in a dual-tone finish.
    With the two-spoke design of the steering wheel, Avinya users can get a clear view of the instrument screen. This improves overall convenience as well as safety. Earlier, images of the Avinya Concept had also revealed a stalk on the left side of the steering wheel to control gear shifts. The new steering wheel has minimalistic and futuristic vibes, which complements the overall aesthetics of Avinya’s cabin space.
    Tata Avinya Electric Car Steering Wheel
    Tata Avinya – Key features
    Based on concept images, Avinya stands out as one of the most captivating Tata cars to date. Some of the key features include T-shaped full-width LED strips at front and rear, a closed-off grille and sleek LED headlamps and DRLs. Side profile has flush door handles, blacked-out pillars, door side moulding and sporty alloy wheels with aerodynamic design. At the rear, Avinya has a tapering roofline, a sharp fin antenna and a heavily raked windshield.
    Tata Avinya X Concept
    Inside, the dashboard has the T-shaped full-width lighting bar and horizontally placed AC vents. All controls appear touch-based, which ensures a clutter-free profile. There’s a large freestanding touchscreen infotainment system, likely to be more than 12 inches. Avinya has ambient lighting, comfy seats and a comprehensive range of premium features.
    While Tata has not revealed any specifications about the Avinya, it is likely to have a range of more than 500 km. Both RWD and AWD variants could be on offer. Tata Avinya is expected to be launched in 2026. More

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    Top 10 Two Wheelers Feb 2025 – Splendor, Activa, Shine, Jupiter, Pulsar, Access, Classic 350

    New Royal Enfield Classic 350India’s two-wheeler market witnessed a year-on-year decline of 8.07% in February 2025, with total sales of 9,59,598 units, down from 10,43,813 units in February 2024. While some models saw impressive growth, others recorded significant declines.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Feb 2025 – YoY Comparison
    Leading the charts, Hero Splendor retained its position as India’s best-selling two-wheeler with 2,07,763 units sold. However, it faced a 25.25% decline compared to 2,77,939 units in February 2024. Honda Activa secured the second spot with 1,74,009 units, registering a 13.05% drop from last year’s 2,00,134 units.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Feb 2025 – YoY Comparison
    Honda Shine climbed to third place with 1,54,561 units, showing 8.26% YoY growth over last year’s 1,42,763 units. The TVS Jupiter saw the highest growth among the top 10, surging 40.23% to 1,03,576 units, a significant increase from 73,860 units last year. Meanwhile, Bajaj Pulsar declined by 21.90%, selling 87,902 units compared to 1,12,544 units in February 2024.
    Hero HF Deluxe continued its run in the top 10 but dropped 7.30%, selling 70,581 units, down from 76,138 units last year. The Suzuki Access saw a modest 4.54% YoY growth, reaching 59,039 units from 56,473 units. TVS Apache posted a 9.72% increase, with 37,954 units sold compared to 34,593 units in February 2024. TVS XL 100 slipped to ninth place, registering 33,572 units, a 18.23% decline from last year’s 41,059 units. Rounding off the top 10, Royal Enfield Classic 350 maintained steady demand, selling 30,641 units, reflecting an 8.23% YoY growth over 28,310 units last year.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Feb 2025 – MoM Comparison
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Feb 2025 – MoM Comparison
    Following the year-on-year decline, two-wheeler sales also saw a month-on-month dip of 6.85%, with total sales in February 2025 standing at 9,59,598 units, compared to 10,30,163 units in January 2025. Hero Splendor, despite maintaining its top position, recorded a sharp decline of 19.92%, with sales falling from 2,59,431 units in January to 2,07,763 units in February. Honda Activa, in contrast, registered a 4.36% growth, increasing from 1,66,739 units to 1,74,009 units.
    Honda Shine, which ranked third, saw an 8.16% MoM decline, selling 1,54,561 units in February compared to 1,68,290 units in January. TVS Jupiter also experienced a 3.96% drop, with sales decreasing from 1,07,847 units to 1,03,576 units. Bajaj Pulsar, which sold 1,04,081 units in January, slipped to 87,902 units, marking a 15.54% decline.
    Hero HF Deluxe recorded the highest MoM growth among the top 10, with a 13.43% increase from 62,223 units to 70,581 units. Suzuki Access followed, posting an 8.16% rise, selling 59,039 units compared to 54,587 units in January. TVS Apache also saw an upward trend, reporting a 9.98% growth with 37,954 units, up from 34,511 units. Meanwhile, TVS XL 100 faced a 19.82% drop, declining from 41,872 units to 33,572 units. Royal Enfield Classic 350 remained almost flat, with a 0.19% increase, selling 30,641 units in February, up from 30,582 units in January. More

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    2025 Honda Shine 100 with OBD2B Compliance – Priced at Rs 68,767

    2025 Honda Shine 100Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the updated Shine 100, now compliant with OBD2B emission norms. Priced at Rs 68,767 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Shine 100 continues to be an affordable, fuel-efficient, and reliable option in the entry-level commuter motorcycle segment.
    New Features & Design Enhancements
    Inspired by its elder sibling, the Shine 125, the new Shine 100 sports a refreshed design, including new graphics, a sleek front cowl, blacked-out alloy wheels, and an aluminium grab rail for added convenience. Its long single-piece seat ensures better comfort, making it ideal for daily commutes. Available in five colour options—Black with Red, Black with Blue, Black with Orange, Black with Gray, and Black with Green—the Shine 100 caters to a wide range of customer preferences.
    Engine & Performance
    The OBD2B-compliant Shine 100 is powered by a 98.98cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, delivering 5.43 kW (7.3 PS) at 7500 RPM and 8.04 Nm of torque at 5000 RPM. Mated to a 4-speed gearbox, the engine ensures smooth power delivery and optimal fuel efficiency.
    Built on a lightweight diamond-type frame, the Shine 100 features telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, offering a stable and comfortable ride. For safety, it comes equipped with drum brakes on both wheels and CBS (Combined Braking System).
    Honda’s Commitment to the Commuter Segment
    In February 2025, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) surpassed Hero MotoCorp in domestic two-wheeler sales, marking a significant shift in the Indian two wheeler market. HMSI reported domestic sales of 3,83,918 units, while Hero MotoCorp’s domestic sales stood at 3,57,296 units, reflecting a 19.8% year-over-year decline. This development underscores HMSI’s growing market presence and highlights the challenges faced by Hero MotoCorp in maintaining its longstanding leadership position. ?
    Speaking about the launch, Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, HMSI, said, “We are happy to introduce the new OBD2B-compliant Shine 100 to our customers in India. Since its launch in March 2023, Shine 100 has established itself as one of the fastest-growing brands in HMSI’s motorcycle portfolio. This entry-level motorcycle has been well received for its superior reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value. With the latest update, we continue our commitment to providing environmentally responsible and high-quality mobility solutions.”
    Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales & Marketing, HMSI, added, “The Shine 100 has been a strong player in the entry-level motorcycle segment, offering exceptional quality and comfort at an affordable price. With this latest upgrade, we are further enhancing its appeal and ensuring compliance with the latest emission norms while maintaining its renowned fuel efficiency and reliability. The Shine 100 has played a key role in strengthening Honda’s presence in the entry-level commuter segment, and we are confident that this new version of Naye India ki Amazing Shine will continue to attract more customers across India.” More

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    Tata Yu Autonomous Self Driving Vehicle Patented

    Tata YuAn autonomous, self-driving vehicle, Tata Yu can transport both goods and people to their respective destinations
    With electrification and technology advancements, the future of mobility will be quite different from what we see today. Providing a glimpse of things to come is this new Tata Yu cargo van that fulfils the last mile connectivity needs of both goods and people. As Tata Yu can be a gamechanger, Tata has filed a patent for the same. Let’s take a look at the details of Tata Yu and try to understand its potential.
    Tata Yu project details
    Primary architects of the Tata Yu concept are Ansuman Mallik and Atmaj Verma. The 6-month project was taken up at the Strate School of Design, Bangalore and was sponsored by Tata Motors. Folks providing the required guidance and mentorship included Ajay Jain (TATA Motors), Edmund Spitz ( HOD of the Transportation Design, Strate School of Design, Bangalore) and Thomas Dal (Dean, Strate School of Design Bangalore).
    Tata Yu design patented
    Ansuman Mallik and Atmaj Verma came up with the idea for Tata Yu when they noticed that goods and people often take the same routes. And yet, the current transportation system has different vehicles for cargo and people. As cargo and people were often moving in the same direction and destinations, the creators started thinking about a vehicle that can carry both cargo and passengers. The search eventually led to the creation of the Tata Yu concept.
    Tata Yu – How it works?
    In the middle section, Tata Yu has plenty of space for storing e-commerce parcels. And at the rear, the van has space for passengers. The e-commerce parcels are stored in the middle section in boxes of various sizes. The van collects these directly from the warehouse and delivers it to the desired location. It has the capability to automatically sort these boxes, as per the delivery destination.
    Tata Yu
    The delivery is done in two ways. At places where a dedicated automated transfer system is available, the e-commerce parcels are directly deposited in that system. In this project, this automated transfer system is referred to as the ‘bridge’. In the future, such systems can come up at various offices and housing complexes.
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    Another way to deliver the parcels is via the delivery executive. Similar to food delivery apps, gig workers can get details about the package to be delivered. They can accept the offer and pick up the parcel from the van at the designated stop. They can then deliver the parcel to the destination and earn their commission.
    Talking about moving passengers, the process is the same as seen with taxi operators like Uber. Passengers can enter their destination on the app. If any van is going in the same direction, they can hop on and reach their destination. Payment will be made via the app. Tata Yu can accommodate two passengers.
    Tata Yu specs
    In its concept form, Tata Yu is 3,700 mm long, 1,500 mm wide and 1,800 mm tall. The vehicle will be powered by hub-mounted motors. More details such as battery capacity and range are not available right now. The vehicle will take several years to reach production stage. The creators are looking at a timeline of 2030 and beyond for the Tata Yu project to become commercially available. More

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    Tesla Applies For Homologation Of Model 3 and Model Y in India

    Tesla Model YAfter finalizing its first ever showroom in Mumbai, Tesla has now applied for homologation of two cars – Model Y and Model 3
    Tesla’s plans to enter India have been in the works for at least the last 3-4 years. The subsidiary entity, Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Limited, was registered in Bengaluru in 2021. Some of the Tesla models were spotted on road tests as well in India. However, a commercial launch was continually delayed.
    Tesla Model Y and Model 3 to be homologated
    Things are vastly different in 2025, as Tesla is finally moving towards the launch phase at an accelerated pace. The first showroom has been finalized, hirings are on and now, homologation applications for Model Y and Model 3 have been filed. Both of these have been spotted earlier on road tests in India. Homologation is one of the final steps before launching a new car in India. It applies to all cars, irrespective of whether they are manufactured in India, assembled in India or imported as CBUs.
    Tesla Model 3
    In India, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is the centralized agency for conducting homologation of vehicles. A wide variety of tests are performed to ensure that the vehicle meets the quality, safety, performance, emissions and regulatory requirements, as per Indian laws. Once a vehicle passes all the tests, a Type Approval Certificate (TAC) is issued. It is essentially a confirmation that the vehicle is roadworthy and meets all the mandated standards.
    While Tesla was earlier planning to manufacture cars in India, the brand will initially focus on taking the CBU route. It will allow Tesla to get a better understanding of consumer sentiments and demand for its cars in India. Later, as the situation evolves across both domestic and international locations, Tesla can think about local manufacturing in India. As of now, Tesla has manufacturing units in the United States, China and Germany. Tesla is building a new manufacturing plant in Mexico, but completion can take a couple of years.
    Tesla Autopilot
    Import duty reduced for EVs
    Tesla’s fast progress into the Indian market comes at a time when the government has plans to reduce import duties on specific EVs to 15%. Earlier, this tax was around 70% to 110%. It was a key reason that had resulted in delays in Tesla’s entry into India. Reports indicate that Tesla is pushing for an even more lenient tax system, wherein its EVs would attract zero tax. It remains to be seen if such demands will be accepted.
    Tesla could benefit from other policy updates also such as the proposed changes to the domestic value addition (DVA) criteria. The government could also change the minimum value mandated for imported vehicles under the EV manufacturing scheme. Such changes could increase profit margins for Tesla cars sold in India.
    But the red carpet being rolled out for specific EVs comes with some terms and conditions. For example, the lower import duties will be applicable only for OEMs that commit to Make In India and invest at least $500 million (approx. Rs 4,340 crore). Such commitments need to be fulfilled within 3 years. These measures will protect the interests of homegrown carmakers that have invested thousands of crores for building their EV portfolio. More

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    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In India – 952 Bhp, CNY 335K (Rs 40 L)

    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In IndiaAfter launching the Sealion 7 in India, BYD seems to be on the verge of expanding its portfolio to incorporate more luxurious and performant vehicles. Recently, BYD patented the design of its flagship SUV, Denza N9, in India. Now, we see BYD patenting Denza Z9 GT in India, which is a flagship Estate or Shooting Brake vehicle. It could be just IP protection exercise from BYD or they could have launch intentions. Let’s take a closer look.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented
    Denza Z9 GT is a Shooting Brake or Estate version of Denza Z9 sedan. This is a luxurious large size sedan sold in China and its intended markets include Europe. In contrast, Denza Z9 GT is a sleek and stylish Shooting Brake version with mesmerising looks, owing to its sloping roofline and is more practical as it has a 5-Door form factor with a lift-up hatchback-style tailgate.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    In China, prices of BYD Denza Z9 GT start from CNY 334,800 (approx Rs 40 lakh) for base PHEV variant and goes till CNY 384,800 (approx Rs 46.25 lakh) for top-spec fully electric variant. Called 630 4WD Max EV, this top-spec variant packs a 100 kWh battery with triple motors for a peak power of 952 bhp and 630 km range along with 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.4s.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In India
    In India, we used to get Taycan Cross Turismo, which was an Estate or Shooting Brake version of Taycan. It has been discontinued for some time. If BYD launches Denza Z9 GT in India, it will enjoy a niche. If BYD brought the 630 4WD Max EV variant into our market, it would be the most affordable near 1,000 bhp vehicle ever sold by a long shot, attracting enthusiasts.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    There is a base PHEV version for Denza Z9 GT which packs BYD’s DM 5.0 Technology. It consists of a 204 bhp 2.0L IC engine along with a 38.51 kWh Blade battery pack. Pure electric range is 201 km and total system range is 1,100 km. There are three electric motors with combined output of 858 bhp and promises 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.6s.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Side Profile
    Where dimensions are concerned, BYD Denza Z9 GT PHEV measures 5,195 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, 1,500 mm in height and has a 3,125 mm long wheelbase. Denza Z9 GT EV version is slightly shorter in length measuring 5,180 mm and shares all of the other dimensions with PHEV version.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    ‘Elegance in Motion’ design language
    Denza Z9 GT is based on Elegance In Motion design language. It gets swooping lines and elongated lighting elements, flush door handles, long bonnet, sloping roofline, split roof spoiler, a diffuser, wraparound tail lights, large alloy wheels and more. It has to be noted that BYD Denza Z9 GT design patented in India does not get the optional rear-view cameras.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    On the inside, Denza Z9 GT gets 5 displays – 17.3-inch infotainment screen, 13.2-inch screen for instrumentation, 13.2-inch screen for passenger and two displays on door trims to relay rear-view camera feed. There’s also a 50-inch HUD as well. Denza Z9 GT gets electrically operated doors and all seats are electrically operated, heated, ventilated and offer massage.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    Other notable elements on the inside include a large panoramic sunroof, exquisite materials, premium audio system with retractable Devialet speaker, extensive sound deadening measure, rear privacy glass, dual 50W wireless charging pads, hidden AC vents, multi-zone climate control, a floating centre console, 4-spoke steering wheel, a 4L refrigerator at the front and 10L refrigerator at the rear, and 128-colour ambient lighting. More

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    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Trademarked Ahead Of Launch

    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design PatentedAt Auto Expo 2025, TVS Motor briefly showcased its upcoming Apache RTX 300 ADV motorcycle and then took it out of the stage. The keen eyes of Indian automotive fraternity captured images of this motorcycle in production-spec before it happened. Now, TVS Apache RTX 300 launch seems to be nearing as it is patented in India.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV
    This is the first time TVS is venturing into ADV genre and Apache RTX 300 will be their maiden product in this category. The patent design shows that TVS is going for an Adventure Tourer format, instead of an all-out off-roader. This is a rather welcome approach by TVS Motor as it is their first ADV and more off-road worthy products may launch in the future.
    TVS Apache RTX Name Trademarked
    Apache RTX 300 will target both off-road enthusiasts and tourers alike. The motorcycle looks large and accommodating for long journeys. It seems to have an upright riding posture and a tall windscreen (which may be adjustable) to protect riders from windblast. We can see a luggage rack at the rear to accommodate a top box along with multiple provisions to mount luggage.
    Where design is concerned, TVS is going for a semi-fairing with muscular tank extensions that flow into the headlight section. Speaking of headlight, it seems to be a quad barrel LED reflector setup split into two sections (low beam and high beam). Turn indicators are sleek LED units and protrude out of the fairing.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Patented
    Adventure Tourer
    Seat is of split design and has a pronounced step for pillion, offering more comfort. Handlebar are slightly high set, offering a relaxed riding posture for rider. Also, TVS Apache RTX 300 have ORVMs mounted on handlebar and not on its fairing. Rear gets LED tail lights, sleek LED turn indicators and a tyre hugger.
    TVS’ maiden ADV is getting premium components too. We get USD telescopic front forks finished in a lovely Gold shade along with rear mono-shock setup. Front wheel is likely to be 19-inch and rear 17-inch. It gets single petal disc brake setup at both ends and switchable dual channel ABS may be part of the package.
    TVS RT-XD4 Engine
    New RT-XD4 engine
    This motorcycle is expected to be powered by TVS’ new RT-XD4 engine, mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox. Peak power is around 35 bhp and peak torque is around 28.5 Nm. This is a 299cc engine which is liquid-cooled and could get a DOHC 4V/cylinder head.
    Spy shots have shown a horizontal instrument cluster which might be a colour TFT unit. Bluetooth connectivity along with SmartXonnect app integration might allow music control, notification alerts and even navigation. Launch is likely to happen soon and price could start from around Rs 2.8 lakh (Ex-sh). More