Aurelia Butler

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    Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images Out – Electric Compact SUVs

    Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledBoth Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 are similar where hardware is concerned and are largely the same vehicles, but differ in stylingFirst real-world images of Honda’s newest Ye eSUV lineup for China have been revealed from the stage. These cars were recently unveiled and are expected to go on sale in China by the end of 2024. These vehicles feature an almost identical profile along and interiors while differing in fascia and rear section for unique stylistic propositions.Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images OutRemember Honda e:NS2 and e:NP2 concept vehicles that Honda showcased at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show? They were supposed to evolve into production-spec models by mid 2024 and launch by the end of 2024. Right on time, Honda has translated e:NS2 and e:NP2 concepts into Ye S7 and Ye P7 electric SUVs respectively.Honda Ye S7 FasciaHonda Ye S7 RearDesign themes from showcased concepts have successfully made it to production-spec vehicles. In this sense, Honda Ye S7 gets a much more sporty design and appeal with arrow-like Y-shaped DRL elements at the front and back. Just like e:NS2 concept. Horizontal slats in lower grill and connecting LED DRL from e:NS2 have made it to Ye S7 as well.Wheels from concept vehicle have made it to production too, which is a 5-spoke design with punched-in-like cut-outs. Instead of ORVMs, we get cameras. Door handles are flush to the body. to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Overall silhouette is quite strong and adheres to tough SUV aesthetics with a slight sloping roofline.Honda Ye P7 FasciaHonda Ye P7 RearWhere Ye S7 positions itself as the sporty offering, Ye P7 appears to be far more sophisticated, mature and premium. While side profile and wheel designs are identical, fascia and rear section differ vastly. Ye P7 sticks to classic Honda design elements with a thick bar connecting the headlights. Just like in e:NP2 concept.Headlights and tail lights get C-shaped LED elements that look nice and premium. Lower grill is a lot more conservative and finished in gloss black. Rear tailgate is different from what we saw in Ye S7 and is less angular and a lot more soothing. Same goes for roof spoiler rear bumper and other attributes. New Honda logo and illuminated HONDA lettering on front fenders were common between the two.Honda Ye S7 profileHonda Ye P7 profileFresh new interiorHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 have the same interiors but different finishes and colour schemes. While Ye S7 gets white on a light grey colour scheme, Ye P7 gets a darker colour scheme that exudes sportiness. The three-spoke steering wheel gets HONDA lettering in the middle. Overall layout is smart.There are two displays for rear view camera feed – one on each door. The instrument screen is sleek and wide, lending a sportscar vibe, whereas the centre infotainment screen is massive. We like the new design direction that Honda’s interiors are taking. Except for the larger display and fewer buttons, this is a well-thought-out cabin.Honda Ye S7 InteriorHonda Ye P7 InteriorBuilt on W platform, Honda is offering both single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD layouts with batteries from CATL. It has to be noted that Ye S7 is sold by Dongfeng Honda and Ye P7 is sold by GAC Honda. Both are China-only as of now with possibilities to break out of the dragon land in the future.Also read – Honda Amaze scored 2 Stars in GNCAPYe S7 Image source Ye S7 Image source More

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    Yamaha Sales Breakup March 2024 – FZ, RayZR, MT15, R15, Fascino, R3

    2024 Yamaha MT15 – MRD VlogsYamaha has posted a YoY and MoM growth both across domestic sales and exports in March 2024Yamaha India has ended the past fiscal on a positive note with a YoY and MoM improvement in sales both in domestic and global markets. Total sales (domestic + exports) in March 2024 stood at 81,057 units, a growth over 57,124 units sold in March 2023. This related to a volume growth of 23,933 units.Yamaha Sales YoY and MoM GrowthYamaha has posted a YoY growth in terms of domestic sales which improved by 34.36%to 58,528 units in March 2024, up from 43,561 units sold in March 2023. This was a volume growth of 14,967 units. MoM sales improved by 3.52% from 56,538 units sold in February 2024.Yamaha Sales Breakup March 2024It was the Yamaha FZ range of motorcycles that had the most buyers last month despite a 15.39% YoY decline. Sales in the past month stood at 16,154 units, down from 19,092 units sold in March 2023, while MoM sales improved by 11.80% from 14,449 units sold in February 2024 to a current 27.60% share in the company portfolio. Next in line was Yamaha RayZR with 11,531 units sold in the past month, a 129.43% YoY growth from 5,026 units sold in March 2023. Currently commanding a 19.70% share, the RayZR also saw a 4.65% MoM growth over 11,019 units sold in February 2024.It was followed by the MT15 with 72.50% YoY and 6.47% MoM growth in sales to 10,697 units. The 2024 Yamaha MT15 naked streetfighter, priced from Rs 1,72,700 (ex.sh.), has recently been updated with new colour schemes. Offered in Standard and DLX variants, the DLX variants now sport Y-Connect feature along with an LED flasher.Yamaha Sales Breakup March 2024 vs March 2023 – YoY comparisonWhile Yamaha R15 sales improved by 33.16% on a YoY basis to 10,095 units, MoM sales fell by 9.28%. Fascino sales on the other hand have shown outstanding growth on YoY basis by 46.81% to 8,311 units in March 2024 from 5,661 units sold in March 2023 while MoM sales also improved by 7.82%. Aerox (1,704 units) and R3/MT3 (36 units) scooters have both posted MoM decline in sales by 16.76% and 74.29% respectively. There was the new 2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S variant launched earlier this month that comes in with Smart Key Technology and priced at Rs. 1,50,600 (Ex-showroom).Yamaha Sales Breakup March 2024 vs Feb 2024 – MoM comparisonYamaha Exports March 2024 Led by RayZR and FZExports of Yamaha improved by 66.11% YoY and 3% MoM in March 2024 to 22,529 units. This was a significant growth over 13,563 units sold in March 2023 while sales in February 2024 had been at 21,873 units. Commanding the export list was the RayZR with 7,558 units sold in the past month. This was a massive YoY growth of 354.21% over 1,664 units sold in March 2023 to take on a 33.55% share in the export list. MoM exports also saw reasonable growth of 98.27% from 3,812 units sold in February 2024.In February 2024 it was the FZ that was at the top of the export list with a 47.25% share but was succeeded by the RayZR in March 2024. FZ exports improved by 84.46% YoY but declined by 33.13% MoM to 6,910 units in March 2024. There had been 10,334 units of the FZ exported in February 2024.Yamaha Saluto RX (2,904 units) also posted YoY growth in exports by 60.26% but a 24.06% MoM decline while Yamaha MT (1,412 units) and SZ (1,304 units) each posted significantly higher YoY and MoM growth in exports in the past month. The export list also included Saluto (1,296 units), FZ25 (782 units) R15 (297 units) and Aerox (66 units). Fascino scooter exports dipped 100% on a MoM basis from 60 units shipped in February 2024 to 0 units in the past month. More

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    BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept Debuts – Launch Likely From $20k (Rs 17 L)

    BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch. Images – BYD FanExpected to be available for sale in China in Q3, the production version will take on rivals such as MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3At the Beijing Auto Show, BYD has taken the wraps off the Ocean M hot hatch concept. With its sporty profile and an extravagant body kit, the concept looks absolutely stunning. Post launch in China, the production model is likely destined for European markets.BYD Ocean M Concept – Key FeaturesSome design elements that are an instant draw include the massive splitter at front, large sill extensions, GT3-style diffuser and high-rise rear spoiler. The production variant won’t be getting these features, but still, the electric hatchback will continue to have a significantly attractive profile.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchOcean M concept’s front fascia seems to derive inspiration from the Lamborghini Aventador. But such similarities may be diluted in the production version. The same could be true for the camera-based door mirrors, at least for the base variant. The rising waistline adds more dynamism to the hatch and enhances its road presence.Ocean M’s aerodynamic body panelling, sleek headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, sporty alloy wheels, thick body cladding, flush-type door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars make the electric hatch a wondrous looking car. At rear, the EV gets funky wraparound tail lamps with interconnected LED panelling in a pleasing wave format.[embedded content]While interiors have not been revealed, one can expect the electric hatch to offer a comprehensive range of premium features. Some of the key features could include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, dual-tone interiors, vegan leather seats, etc.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchIt also gets panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, wireless charging and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. With Europe on the target, BYD will ensure that Ocean M gets 5-star ratings in Euro NCAP crash tests. Safety kit will include a comprehensive range of advanced features including ADAS.BYD Ocean M specs, performanceIn the company’s lineup, BYD Ocean M will be placed between the Dolphin hatch and Seal sedan. Speculations suggest that the production model will spawn a hot hatch version as well. It will be equipped with a rear-wheel drive setup.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchBYD has stated that Ocean M will be based on a new electric architecture. Existing popular BYD cars like Dolphin and Seal are based on e-Platform 3.0. The new platform for Ocean M could be the next-gen e-Platform 4.0. Improvements are expected around aesthetics, safety, efficiency and intelligence.While powertrain options have not been revealed, BYD Ocean M will be fun to drive. However, BYD could be focusing more on range rather than going after the best-performer tag. Just like other BYD cars, the Ocean M will be offered at a competitive price point. While BYD-Tesla battles are often highlighted, BYD is also focused on ending the ICE age. The production version of Ocean M could be launched in the price range of $20,700 to $27,600 (Approx. Rs 17.24 lakh to Rs 22.98 lakh). More

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    TVS Sales Breakup March 2024 – Jupiter, XL, Raider, Apache, Ntorq, iQube, Ronin

    TVS Apache RR 310 Miami BlueTVS Motor has reported a growth across both domestic sales and exports in March 2024 with domestic sales up 8% and exports soaring 26.71% YoYTVS Motor Company, the third best-selling two wheeler maker in India after Hero and Honda, has reported increased sales in March 2024, thus ending the past fiscal on a positive note. Total sales (domestic + exports) in March 2024 improved by 10% to 3,42,378 units, a growth of 40,007 units over 3,05,371 units sold in March 2023. The two wheeler maker has also registered their highest sales in FY2024 at 29,65,744 units overtaking Bajaj Auto by significant numbers.TVS Domestic Sales March 2024Taking into account domestic sales, TVS Motor has reported an 8.20% YoY growth. Sales which had stood at 2,40,780 units in March 2023 improved to 2,60,532 units in March 2024. This was a volume growth of 19,752 units. In the motorcycle segment, the company sells the Apache, Raider 125, Sport, Radeon, Ronin, etc while it has XL in the moped segment and Jupiter, Ntorq and iQube in the scooter segment out of which the iQube is its sole electric offering.TVS Sales Breakup March 2024Leading the domestic sales list was TVS Jupiter with a 21.26% YoY growth. Sales improved to 71,390 units in the past month, up from 58,874 units sold in March 2023. Jupiter currently commands a 27.40% share. At No. 2 position was the XL moped with 40,867 unit sales in the past month, up 11.01% over 36,814 units sold in March 2023. In March 2024, the company also registered the names TVS XL EV and E-XL for their upcoming electric moped which is pegged for launch in September 2024 to rival the recently introduced Kinetic E-Luna.Raider sales also improved tremendously by 22.66% YoY to 38,026 units in March 2024 up from 31,002 units sold in March 2023. However, thereafter the model lineup suffered a setback with the Apache (34,237 units), Ntorq (26,912 units), iQube (14,326 units) and Sport (11,934 units) each suffering a YoY de-growth. TVS recently increased prices of its iQube and iQube S electric scooters by Rs 3,000 and 6,000 respectively. This price hike comes in following a new Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) introduced by the Government of India following the FAME II scheme ending on 31st March 2024.TVS Sales Breakup March 2024Lower down the domestic sales list and posting outstanding YoY growth was the Radeon with a 37.21% improvement in March 2024 to 11,232 units while it was exceptional demand seen for the Zest, sales of which grew by 188.63% YoY to 9,239 units in March 2024. The new Ronin added 1,911 units to TVS sales last month while the Apache 310 saw its sales up 8.78% to 446 units from 410 units sold in March 2023. Star City sales dipped 99.38% to just 12 units as compared to 1,931 units sold in the same month last year.TVS Sales Breakup March 2024TVS Exports in March 2024 – Star City 125 in the LeadTVS exports improved by 26.71% YoY in March 2024 to 81,846 units, up from 64,591 units sold in March 2024. This was a volume growth of 17,255 units. In the lead at No.1 on the export list was Star City 125 with 34,897 units sold last month, a 28.60% YoY growth from 27,136 units sold in March 2023 to command a 42.64% share on this list.Apache exports also improved by 126.53% to 11,408 units from 5,036 units YoY while Star City saw a 51.85% YoY growth in exports to 11,372 units. A maximum YoY growth in exports was experienced by the TVS Raider which improved at the rate of 161.36% to 7,745 units in March 2024 from 3,346 units sold in March 2023.Jupiter exports dipped 35.21% to 5,917 units in the past month while a 45.91% growth was reported for the TVS Sport to 5,625 units. The list also included the Ntorq (2,764 units) and XL (496 units) both of which have suffered massive YoY de-growth while there were 416 units of the relatively new Ronin exported last month. Apache 310 sales grew to 166 units from 90 units, an 84.44% growth on a YoY basis while iQube exports stood at 40 units in the said month from 0 units shipped in March 2023. More

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    BMW i5 M60 xDrive Launched In India – Costs Rs. 1.2Cr, Goes 100Km/h In 3.8s

    BMW i5 M60 xDrive LaunchedGlobally, BMW i5 rivals the likes of Porsche Taycan, Audi e-tron GT, Tesla Model 3 and EQE sedan from Mercedes-BenzLegacy German luxury and performance car manufacturer, BMW, launched its 6th electric offering in India in the form of BMW i5 M60 xDrive. Based on the 8th Gen BMW 5 Series, i5 M60 xDrive incorporates all the necessary attributes from ‘M’ division and blends them with sustainability of ‘I’ division.BMW i5 M60 xDrive Launched In IndiaRepresenting BMW’s relentless pursuit of creating ultimate driving machines, Indian EV space has been graced with the launch of i5 M60 xDrive. This is a CBU and is launched in India in the sole M60 xDrive variant. Pricing for BMW i5 M60 xDrive is Rs. 1,19,50,000 (ex-sh) and it comes with a standard 2 year or unlimited km warranty. Battery gets 8 year or 1,60,000 km warranty.BMW i5 M60 xDrive FasciaThere is an Alpine White non-metallic colour. Metallic shades include M Brooklyn Grey, M Carbon Black, Cape York green, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Sophisto Grey, Oxide Grey, Mineral White. Individual paintworks are offered too and these include Frozen Portimao Blue, Frozen Deep Grey, Frozen Pure Grey and Tansanite Blue.As standard, interior trim options on BMW i5 M60 xDrive is in Carbon Fibre with Alcantara / Veganza | Black upholstery options. Upgrades to upholstery are in the form of Veganza and Leather Merino. Overall exterior design is typical 5 Series and highlights with i5 M60 xDrive are the illuminated BMW Kidney Grills, adaptive LED headlights, vertical LED DRL signatures, L-shaped rear tail lights, M spoiler and 20-inch M-light alloy wheels among others.BMW i5 M60 xDrive DesignBMW is known for its beautifully put-together and meticulously crafted interiors. i5 M60 is not different. On the inside, we get generous space and modern functionality, both of which are expected from a 5 Series based vehicle. Layered dashboard and BMW curved displays grab all the attention.These screens run on M specific displays. Notable interior attributes are carbon fibre trims, massive panorama skyroof, sports seats with active seat ventilation function at the front, classic 3-spoke M leather steering wheel and 18 speakers with 655W Bowers & Wilkins speakers among others. Sports seats are standard, but buyers can opt for comfort seats too.BMW i5 M60 xDrive PluggedPerformanceConsidering we are talking about a BMW, performance is the juiciest part and i5 M60 xDrive doesn’t disappoint. We get two highly integrated electric drive units – one for each axle. The exhilarating performance metrics include a 230 km/h top speed and an insane 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.This performance is enabled with the help of two electric motors an AWD layout with a total system output of 601 bhp and 795 Nm. These motors draw power from an 81.2 kWh battery pack promising a WLTP range of 516 km on a single charge. BMW offers a complementary 11 kW wall box AC charger and a 22 kW AC charger is offered as an option.BMW i5 M60 xDrive SpecsStatement from BMW Group IndiaMr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “With the first-ever BMW 15 M60 xDrive, you can expect nothing short of a completely electrifying experience. It brings together the legacy of eight generations of the sportiest executive sedan the ‘5’, adrenaline laden performance of ‘M’ and the sustainability of ‘I’.As the sixth electric offering from BMW Group India, the BMW 15 M60 xDrive will further reinforce our leadership in the Indian luxury electric mobility segment. With uncompromised performance that defines exhilaration for the modern era, it is an experience engineered for unbridled excitement and unparalleled thrills.” More

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    2024 Yamaha Aerox 155cc Scooter Debuts With New Colours

    2024 Yamaha Aerox 155Yamaha has unveiled the updated 2024 version of their Aerox 155cc scooter – It comes in new colours and decalsYamaha’s entry-level 155cc maxi-scooter has different names in different markets. While here it is called the Aerox 155 in India, locations such as Vietnam and Malaysia have it as Yamaha NVX 155. For the Malaysian market, Yamaha has introduced the 2024 Aerox 155 with new colour options.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155cc Standard Variant – New Colours, PricesStandard variant of 2024 Yamaha Aerox is available at a starting price of RM 9,998 (approx. Rs 1.74 lakh). Earlier, the Standard model was available at RM 9,598 (Rs 1.67 lakh). Other charges such as insurance, road tax and registration are additional. New colour options for the 2024 Yamaha Aerox Standard variant are Blue and Bronze. The dark Blue shade is easily noticeable and ensures a strong road presence for the maxi-scooter.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155For a more dynamic profile, the scooter gets sporty graphics in a mixed palette of red, white and black. The graphics have a textured design, which ensures a livelier effect. Second colour option of Bronze comes in a light tone, expressing a more homely feel and cosy profile. The mixed palette for the graphics includes shades of yellow and cyan. Some red bits can also be seen on the front apron.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 ABS Variant – New Colours, PricesYamaha Aerox ABS variant is now available at a starting price of RM 11,698 (Rs 2.04 lakh). Earlier, the ABS variant was available at RM 11,498 (Rs 2.01 lakh). New colour options for 2024 Yamaha Aerox ABS variant are Cyan Sky and Premium Navy.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155Both colour options are absolutely stunning and better than the options available with the standard variant. The Cyan Sky shade is quite elegant and will appeal to a wide segment of users and age groups. The graphics are different and a lot more refined in comparison to that of the standard variant.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155Yamaha Aerox Premium Navy shade is no less than a masterpiece. While Navy is inherently attractive, the exciting graphics in blue, bronze and black add a lot more dynamism to the maxi-scooter. Alloy wheels also get the bronze shade, further enhancing the overall look and feel.Among the new colour variants for 2024 Yamaha Aerox, only the Premium Navy variant gets a brown seat. It has contrasting white stitching for a classier feel. In terms of making a powerful impact, the Premium Navy shade is a clear winner.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155No other changesApart from the new colours, there are no other changes to the Aerox 155. In Malaysia, 2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 is available with warranty of 2 years or 20,000 km. This is applicable for manufacturing defects. Users also benefit from a free disc lock that is worth RM 100 (Rs 1,743). Powering Yamaha Aerox 155 is a single-cylinder, 155 cc, liquid-cooled SOHC engine. It generates 15.4 PS and 13.9 Nm. The maxi-scooter offers a comprehensive range of features such as LCD instrument display, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry and start and USB charging port. More

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    Bajaj Exploring Hydrogen-Powered Chetak – CNG Bike Launch In June 2024

    Image for representation only: Credit – L. V. LeeuwenHydrogen powertrain development at Chetak Technology Limited is likely to be in early stages, but CNG motorcycle from Bajaj might launch in June 2024Currently indulged in launching “biggest ever Pulsar” on May 3rd, 2024, Bajaj Auto is also spearheading the exploration of alternative fuels for their 2W and 3W vehicles. The company’s interest in fuels other than petrol and electricity has landed them in Hydrogen and CNG realms and the company is working on both.Bajaj Exploring Hydrogen-Powered ChetakHydrogen fuel is not something very common in Indian market. There are no Hydrogen-powered vehicles on sale in India and there never have been. A few car manufacturers in India have expressed their interest in Hydrogen fuel, but Bajaj is the first to explore possibilities of hydrogen powertrain in 2W and 3W vehicles.The company is exploring hydrogen-powered powertrains under their Chetak Technology Ltd subsidiary. This way, Chetak intends to establish a major position for itself in Indian 2W market by being the first OEM in the Asian subcontinent to venture into Hydrogen powertrain territory. That said, Joy e-bike is developing a Hydrogen powered scooter it would be interesting to see which one of these will launch first.The revelation came when Bajaj Auto appointed Abraham Joseph as the Managing Director of its subsidiary brand, Chetak Technology Limited (CTL). Announcing the change in leadership, one of Bajaj Auto’s statements was “CTL will explore the potential of hydrogen vehicles, further expanding Bajaj Auto’s ability to deliver technologically differentiated products.”Bajaj considering Hydrogen-powered ChetakPreviously, Abraham Joseph filled the position the CTO of Bajaj Auto Limited. A position that will now be filled by Ramtilak Ananthan who assumes the CTO role for Bajaj Auto. Ramtilak Ananthan has performed various roles at Bajaj Auto including VP of Bajaj’s R&D in 2013 and Head of Test & Validation at Bajaj Auto in 2019.As of writing this article, we’re not sure what stage Chetak’s Hydrogen powertrain is in. Also, it is unsure whether Chetak is going for Hydrogen Fuel Cells or a Hydrogen IC engine. More likely to be the former.CNG bike launch in June 2024While efforts in Hydrogen powertrains are set for future propositions, Bajaj is spearheading India’s CNG motorcycle portfolio. Factory-designed and developed CNG motorcycles have never been a thing in India. Bajaj will surely garner the title of the first Indian OEM to launch a CNG-equipped motorcycle.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Speculations suggest a launch timeline of June 2024. Testing for the same has commenced and we have seen quite a few spy shots already. This motorcycle could be based on its 110cc platform and will be positioned as the motorcycle with the least running cost.Owing to its CNG nature, we expect it to yield good mileage (fuel efficiency) and a decent range on a single refill. This motorcycle will be targeted towards value-conscious buyers who need an economical commuter for their daily commute needs. More

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    Hyundai Electric SUV (Creta EV?) Production Starts End 2024 – Group Plant Capacity To Increase To 15 Lakh

    Hyundai Creta N LineHyundai’s first local EV will be Creta EV, already spotted testing, and production will commence by the end of 2024 at their Chennai plantAhead of its 30th anniversary in 2026, Hyundai Motor India is already coining its 2030 strategy. The slogan for 2030 strategy is ‘Innovator in Mobility and Beyond’. Hyundai’s subsidiary, Kia India, has also overhauled its operations to promote quantitative and qualitative growth through company’s ‘Kia 2.0’ strategy.Hyundai Kia India Plants Capacity To Touch 15 LakhIn that regard, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited India to review the company’s mid-to-long-term mobility strategies for the future. This is the first time the Executive Chair has held an overseas town hall meeting outside of South Korea. Also present in the meeting were key executives from Hyundai Motor including Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, and Unsoo Kim, Managing Director and CEO of Hyundai Motor India.Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Visits IndiaThe meeting concluded a manufacturing advance in the rapidly growing Indian automotive market. The aim is to establish an annual production capacity of around 1.5 million vehicles combining both Hyundai and Kia brands in India. A key facilitator of this plan will be expansion of EV lineup and create an EV ecosystem to accelerate customer uptake.The commencement of production at Hyundai’s recently acquired Pune plant (from GM) last year will play a major role in achieving their goals. Company is currently making improvements towards Pune plant and establishing a production hub capable of 2 lakh units annually. Production is estimated to start in second half of 2025.Hyundai India Plant, Chennai. Image for reference.Combining Pune plant’s 2 lakh capacity with Chennai plant’s current production capacity of 8.24 lakh units, Hyundai Motor is looking at an annual production capacity of over 10 lakh (1 million) units. Kia India’s annual production capacity is set to be expanded to 4.31 lakh units by the first half of 2024. Combining Kia’s numbers, Hyundai Motor Group is looking at an annual production capacity of 15 lakh per annum (1.5 million).Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedHyundai Kia local-made EV onslaughtElectric vehicles will play a crucial role in the company’s growth ambitions. Hyundai aims to launch its first locally produced EV in Indian market in 2025. This is likely to be Creta EV which is already spotted testing on multiple occasions. Mass production of its first local electric SUV (Creta EV) will commence by the end of 2024 at Hyundai’s Chennai plant.The company aims to expand EV portfolio to incorporate five new EVs by 2030. The holistic approach by Hyundai Motor India towards EVs will result in expanding EV charging infrastructure by 2030. Not just Hyundai, Kia is keen to make a splash in Indian EV space with their first local EV slated to hit production in 2025 with more to break covers in the future.Kia Clavis SpiedRecently, Hyundai and Kia signed an MoU with Exide, a leading Indian battery company, in a bid to pursue local manufacturing of batteries that will power dedicated EVs for India.Statement from Hyundai Motor IndiaDuring the meeting, Executive Chair Chung said “Hyundai Motor India has been pivotal in driving the growth of the Hyundai Motor Group, having navigated through numerous challenges including the COVID19 pandemic, global economic crises, and supply chain disruptions due to semiconductor shortages. We take pride in consistently securing the second-largest market share in this vibrant market and will continue to elevate Hyundai as a premium brand.“India is among the fastest-growing economies globally, and as this growth continues the strategic importance of Hyundai Motor India will only increase. By leveraging our strong reputation and competitive quality in India, we aim to expand exports to neighbouring countries, making India the global export hub to boost our regional market competitiveness.”Speaking about the company’s electrification strategy, Executive Chair Chung said, “We will develop EVs tailored to the Indian market and expand EV infrastructure in the region. We will lead the next generation of mobility in India, playing a key role in electrification, and we will continue to elevate Hyundai as a premium brand.” More