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    Chery iCar V23 Debuts – Co-Developed With Xiaomi And Takes On Yep Plus SUV

    Chery iCar V23 DebutsThe new Chery iCar V23 takes an overall similar design theme as iCar 03 with heavy design inspirations from Toyota FJ CruiserAhead of its launch, Chery iCar V23 has debuted and will be shown at Beijing Auto Show later this month. Pre-sales for this interesting-looking SUV will commence sometime around the second half of 2024. It takes a similar boxy SUV approach as recently launched Baojun Yep Plus SUV.Chery iCar V23 DebutsWho doesn’t love small boxy SUVs with some off-road capabilities? We sure do. Chery has extended its iCar lineup to incorporate V23 e-SUV which is set to launch soon. V23 is second vehicle falling under the iCar umbrella and is co-developed with Xiaomi’s subsidiary, Smartmi, which is also known as Zhimi Technology.Chery iCar V23 is around the same size as a Skoda Kushaq measuring 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, 1,845 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,730 mm. Chery iCar V23 is considerably smaller than Chery’s own iCar 03 even thought it follows the same rugged boxy SUV design theme as iCar 03.You don’t have to be a genius to realise that Chery iCar V23 takes a lot of design inspiration from a now-discontinued SUV from a legacy car maker. We’re talking about Toyota’s legendary FJ Cruiser. Especially with those round headlights, wrap-around type LED DRLs / turn indicators, off-road bumpers and more.Chery iCar V23At the side, design inspiration from FJ Cruiser gets even more evident with the way windshield angle is positioned, chunky ORVMs and a rather thick C-pillar. Unlike FJ Cruiser, this thick C-pillar on Chery iCar V23 extends to its rear, creating a giant blindspot. Rear is not as heavily inspired as FJ Cruiser. Instead of a spare wheel, V23 tailgate gets a storage box for aesthetics.Off-road CredentialsOn the inside, shallow and flat dashboard gets dual-tone treatment. The giant central display grabs all the attention and there are quite a few knobs and toggle switches for crucial functions like climate control. The three-spoke steering wheel gets dual-tone treatment and is wrapped in leather. Interestingly, rear bench seat only has two seats despite having 1,915 mm width.Chery iCar V23 DashboardChery has ensured iCar V23 is a proper off-road-worthy machine. RWD versions promise a 42° approach angle and a 40° departure angle along with a 206 mm ground clearance. The 4WD variant promises a 43° approach and 41° departure angles along with 212 mm ground clearance.Wheel size options include either 19-inchers or 21-inchers. Powertrains are not fully out. Rumour mill suggests an 80 kWh CATL battery pack with 4WD variant and a smaller battery with RWD variant. Range on a single charge could vary between 400 km and 500 km with RWD and 4WD variants respectively. Will it launch in India? Not likely. More

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    New Honda Ye Electric SUV Debuts – Launch By End 2024

    New Honda Ye Electric SUV – GTWhile Honda has been late in the EV race, it aims to catch up with plans to launch around 30 new battery-powered models by 2030For global markets, Honda is working on a new 0 (Zero) series of electric cars. These are expected to be launched in 2026. But Honda has entirely different plans for the Chinese market. It’s understandable, as China is the largest EV market in the world.Honda Ye EV range unveiled in ChinaIn Mandarin, ‘Ye’ means ‘shine brilliantly’. Honda’s new Ye EV range introduced in China has P7 and S7 SUVs and a GT Concept sedan. More models will be added to the Ye EV lineup in the coming years. The crossover SUVs are expected to go on sale in China by the end of 2024.New Honda Ye Electric SUVIn comparison, the GT Concept previews a new EV sedan that is expected to be launched by the end of 2025. Honda’s new EVs for China will be manufactured and sold by the company’s local partners – Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda.Honda P7 and S7 SUVsExcluding the front fascia and rear profile, Honda P7 and S7 SUVs are almost identical. Some of the key highlights include sculpted bonnet, polygonal fenders, flush-type pop-out door handles, blacked-out pillars, side view cameras, raked rear windshield, shark fin antenna and roof mounted spoiler. Even the alloy wheels are the same for P7 and S7 crossover SUVs. Both SUVs get the new Honda logo at front, along with spaced out HONDA lettering at rear.New Honda Ye Electric SUV – P7However, both SUVs have unique styling at front and rear. P7 has a relatively sober design for the front fascia. It has conventional C-shaped elements and similar styled tail lamps. On the other hand, Honda S7 has a quirkier profile. It gets distinctive X-shaped lighting at the front.New Honda Ye Electric SUV – S7At the rear, S7 has H-shaped lighting profile. P7 and S7 have unique front and rear bumpers. The charging port is installed on the front fenders of both SUVs. Inside, Honda P7 and S7 share the same set of equipment. Some of the key highlights include a large touchscreen in portrait format, a digital instrument display and a flattened steering wheel.The SUVs will have AI-based voice control systems. Another interesting feature is illuminated dashboard and door panels that will light up according to specific functions. While hardware specs have not been revealed, it is expected that Honda P7 and S7 will be available in both rear- and all-wheel drive formats.New Honda Ye Electric SUVHonda GT ConceptSpecific features of GT Concept such as the X-shaped lighting at front are similar to that of S7. The same is true for the taillight graphics. Honda GT Concept has a sporty profile, with features such as deep fender air vents. Other exciting features include a split rear windscreen and Formula 1-style rear fog light. Inside, the Honda GT Concept has an opulent red and black colour theme. Users can expect a fully digital experience, with around 6 screens. It includes a unique touch-based gear selector.For the Chinese market, Honda has plans to launch six Ye EV models by 2027. In addition, there will be the e:NP1 and e:NS1. These are China-spec versions of the e:N1. There are two more EVs in the works, but details are not available. It means that Honda will have a total of 10 EVs for China by 2027. Honda also has plans to become an EV-only brand in China by 2035. More

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    2025 Mahindra BE.05 Compact Electric SUV Spied With Production Parts

    2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVMahindra is getting ready to launch a range of new electric SUVs – BE.05 will launch next yearIn a bold move towards the electrification of automobiles, Mahindra is set to redefine the landscape with its upcoming BE.05 electric SUV. Spotted undergoing rigorous testing, the BE.05 promises to deliver a revolutionary design and styling that could potentially make it India’s wildest SUV yet. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Bharathi.Design Innovation Takes Center StageMahindra’s commitment to innovation is evident in the BE.05, which is built upon the INGLO platform, a testament to the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. The BE.05 is part of a larger initiative by Mahindra to introduce multiple electric SUVs based on the INGLO platform in its initial phase, with more to follow.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVAt the forefront of the BE.05’s design is a team led by Pratap Bose, whose vision has brought to life a vehicle that commands attention. Recent spy shots offer a close-up view of the BE.05’s exterior in production format, revealing an avant-garde aesthetic unlike anything seen before in the Indian automotive market.A Glimpse of the FutureThe BE.05 boasts striking LED daytime running lights (DRLs) that dominate the front fascia, setting a new standard for automotive lighting design. These DRL signatures, occupying nearly 70% of the vertical space, exude an aura of sophistication and modernity. The rear of the vehicle is equally captivating, with tail light LED signatures that evoke a sense of primal energy and dynamism.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVFrom its angular side profile to its futuristic roof spoiler, every aspect of the BE.05’s design exudes confidence and boldness. Despite the abundance of design elements, the vehicle’s aesthetics remain cohesive and purposeful, a testament to Mahindra’s commitment to creating a visually arresting compact SUV.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVBeyond Aesthetics: Performance and TechnologyUnderneath its striking exterior, the BE.05 promises to deliver impressive performance and advanced technology. Expected to be equipped with a battery capacity ranging from 60 to 80 kWh, the BE.05 will offer both single-motor and dual-motor configurations to cater to diverse driving needs.Inside the cabin, the BE.05 combines functionality with elegance, featuring a spacious interior with a modern design aesthetic. While the concept showcased a twin-screen layout, recent sightings suggest a more streamlined approach with a single instrument screen, hinting at Mahindra’s ongoing refinement of the vehicle’s interior technology.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVTowards a Greener FutureAs the automotive industry transitions towards electric mobility, Mahindra stands at the forefront, leading the charge with its BE vertical. With a target price range of Rs. 20 lakh to Rs. 30 lakh, the BE.05 aims to make electric driving accessible to a wider audience.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVSet for launch in 2025, the Mahindra BE.05 represents a significant leap forward in electric vehicle design and technology. With its bold aesthetics, cutting-edge features, and commitment to sustainability, the BE.05 is poised to revolutionize the way we perceive electric SUVs, setting a new benchmark for innovation in the automotive industry.2025 Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUV More

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    Wuling Starlight BEV Starts From CNY 110K (Rs. 12.7 Lakh) – The MG e-Sedan For India?

    Wuling Starlight BEVMG has commenced testing of Wuling Cloud EV and has showcased MG 4 and MG 5 in India – However, we think Wuling Starlight BEV a good match for usJSW MG JV aims to consolidate the mainstream electric vehicle segment in India. Wuling Cloud EV has already commenced testing in India and might take Excelor EV name when launched. There’s another Wuling electric sedan that would make a wonderful proposition for Indian market. We’re talking about Starlight BEV that just went on sale in Japan for CNY 110K (Rs. 12.7 lakh).Wuling Starlight BEV Starts From CNY 110K (Rs. 12.7 Lakh)The PHEV version of Wuling Starlight went on sale in December 2023 and clocked 50,888 units since launch. BEV version of Wuling Starlight recently went on sale in China for a pre-sale price starting from CNY 109,800 for base variant and the top-spec variant costs CNY 119,800.Wuling Starlight BEV Vs PHEVThese prices translate into Rs. 12.7 lakh and Rs. 13.8 lakh respectively with today’s conversion rates. China has one of the world’s largest Lithium reserves. Industrial might, manufacturing efficiency and economies of scale ensure competitive pricing for EVs in China and OEMs can still carve out a decent profit.Sticking with the car, Wuling Starlight BEV pre-sales have commenced and company will officially launch it at the Beijing Auto Show in the coming days. To strike visual differences with Starlight PHEV, Starlight BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) comes with a unique fascia and special 18-inch aero alloy wheels. However, side profile and rear section are almost indistinguishable.Wuling Starlight BEV ColoursWhere dimensions are concerned, Wuling Starlight BEV measures 4,835 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height and has a 2,800 mm long wheelbase. Sleek and aerodynamic profile and sloping roofline ensure an air drag coefficient of 0.228 Cd. L-shaped DRLs and a closed-off fascia establish that quintessential EV look.On the inside, Wuling Starlight BEV gets an 8.8-inch instrument screen along with a 10.1-inch infotainment screen. Top-spec model gets a larger 15.1-inch infotainment screen. We like the clean dashboard and centre console design along with 2-spoke D-cut steering wheel. Other notable interior features include electrically adjustable driver’s seat, rear AC vents, auto-dimming IRVM, 540L boot space and a spacious cabin.Wuling Starlight BEV InteriorsShould it launch in India?Where powertrains are concerned, lower variant gets a 41.9 kWh battery with a 410 km CLTC range and the higher variant 54.3 kWh battery offers a 510 km CLTC range. Both variants get a sole 100 kW electric motor (134 bhp) that promises a top speed of 150 km/h.The electric vehicle segment in India is growing at a rapid pace than what was previously predicted. Where electric sedans for mainstream market are concerned, we have Tata Tigor EV at the lower end and BMW i4 at around Rs. 72.5 lakh (ex-sh). In the middle, we have the recently launched BYD Seal which strikes a great balance starting from Rs. 41 lakh (ex-sh).Wuling Starlight BEV RearWhat if there was an electric sedan at around Rs. 30 lakh (ex-sh)? Tempting, isn’t it? What if it is a large 4.8m long sedan too with ample space and practicality? Double bubble, right? That is exactly what Wuling Starlight BEV could be if launched in India. More

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    MG Yep Plus Launched Starting CNY 94K (Rs. 10.8 Lakh) – Comet-Based eSUV

    MG Yep Plus Launched In ChinaIf launched in India, MG Yep Plus will primarily rival Maruti Suzuki Jimny owing to its dimensions, design and overall appealWith an ambition to recreate Maruti moment in India, JSW MG Motor JV is poised to embark on a product offensive. The company intends to launch around 3 new vehicles every year and variations of existing Comet EV are likely too. Baojun Yep Plus eSUV was launched in China starting from Rs. 10.8 lakh and could be a prospective vehicle for India.MG Yep Plus SUV LaunchedBased on the 3-Door Baojun Yep, Yep Plus is what the name suggests. A plus-sized 5-door version that strikes a better practicality proposition owing to its 5-door and 4-seat layout. Baojun brand falls under the JV of SAIC-GM-Wuling and the new Yep Plus is likely to launch in India under MG Motor brand.MG Yep Plus ColoursThe new JV between JSW Group and MG Motor has announced around 3 new car launches in Indian market every year and Yep Plus could be one of them. In China, Yep Plus has been priced between CNY 93,800 and CNY 103,800, which roughly turns out to be around Rs. 10.9 lakh and Rs. 12 lakh in today’s currency exchange rates.Yep Plus adheres to Yep’s ‘Square Box+’ design language and poses similar design attributes as well. The new 5-door model measures 3,996 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width and 1,726 mm in height and has a 2,560 mm long wheelbase. The vehicle lends an off-road vibe owing to its boxy silhouette and rugged body cladding.MG Yep Plus ProfileOther exterior design highlights include a floating roof, a flat side-hinged tailgate without the rear screen of 3-door model, five exterior colours, LED lighting, roof rails and an interesting body panel between C and D pillars. Alloy wheels are 16-inchers and ‘laden’ ground clearance is 150 mm. Yep Plus gets disc brakes at all four corners too.On the inside, we can see a flat multi-layered dashboard in a dual-tone colour scheme with soft-touch plastics and contrasting white stitching. Centre console is hollow like on Comet EV as there is no need for a transmission tunnel. Steering is a 3-spoke unit with metallic accents. Centre infotainment screen is a 10.1-inch and instrument screen is an 8.8-inch unit. Both are free-standing screens.MG Yep Plus InteriorPowertrains and specsBecause this is a 5-door model, MG Yep Plus offers 28 storage spaces for utility and convenience. Boot space with rear seats up, is a respectable 385L and it can be expanded to 1,715L by folding rear seats. Rear seat occupants don’t seem to get an armrest or dedicated AC vents.Where powertrain is concerned, Baojun Yep Plus eSUV gets a sole 75 kW (100 bhp) and 180 Nm electric motor driving front wheels. There might be dual-motor AWD variants in the future. Top speed is rated at 150 km/h and there are 4 driving modes – Economy+, Economy, Standard and Sports.MG Yep Plus Front and RearThis motor draws power from a 41.9 kWh battery pack supplied by Guoxuan High-Tech with fast charging support. Claimed CLTC range on a single charge is 401 km. We also expect Baojun Yonduo or Wuling Cloud to launch in India and testing has already commenced.MG Yep Plus Seating Layout More

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    Mahindra Treo Plus Electric Rickshaw Metal Body Version Launch Price Rs 3.58 L

    Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawMahindra Treo Plus delivers a range of 150 kms on single charge – Charging time is 4 hours 20 minutesMahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited (MLMML), India’s premier electric 3-wheeler company, proudly introduces its latest offering: the Treo Plus featuring a durable metal body. This innovation comes in response to invaluable customer feedback, showcasing MLMML’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its clientele.Treo Plus with Metal Body: A Leap in DurabilityPriced attractively at Rs 3.58 Lakh, ex-showroom, the Treo Plus with its metal body promises enhanced durability and longevity, ensuring a reliable mode of transportation for both passengers and goods alike. Since its inception in 2018, Mahindra has emerged as a trailblazer in the electric 3-wheeler segment, garnering widespread acclaim for its Treo series.Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawWith over 50,000 units sold to date, the Treo line has become synonymous with reliability and efficiency. These vehicles have collectively traversed an astonishing 1.10 billion kilometers, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions by 18,500 metric tonnes. Notably, the Treo series commands an impressive 52% market share in the L5M EV category, underscoring Mahindra’s dominance in the sector.Treo Plus Specifications at a GlanceThe Treo Plus offers a passenger capacity of D+3, making it ideal for urban transportation needs. With an impressively low maintenance cost of 10 paise/km, it stands out as a cost-effective solution for daily commuting. Charging the vehicle is convenient, with a charging time of 4 hours and 20 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for users. While the ARAI certified range is noted at 167 km, real-world range typically reaches 150 km, subject to driving conditions.[embedded content]Treo Plus boasts a top speed of 55 km/h on Boost mode, ensuring efficient and swift travel. The vehicle is powered by a lithium-ion battery, offering reliable performance and efficiency at 48 V. Performance remains a cornerstone of the Treo Plus, boasting specifications tailored to meet the demands of modern mobility. Featuring a 10.24 kWh battery capacity, 8 kW power with 42 Nm torque, the Treo Plus delivers an unparalleled driving experience.Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawWith a wheelbase of 2073 mm and Hill Hold Assist, it offers superior stability and control, ensuring safety on every journey. Additionally, buyers of the metal-bodied Treo Plus can avail themselves of a standard 5-year/120,000 km warranty, offering added peace of mind and assurance. With an extensive service network spanning the length and breadth of India, Mahindra remains steadfast in its commitment to providing unparalleled aftersales support.Mahindra Treo Plus FeaturesAffordable Financing OptionsRecognizing the importance of affordability and accessibility, Mahindra has collaborated with finance partners to present customers with a range of enticing deals. With extended loan tenures of up to 60 months, financing options of up to 90%, and low down payment schemes, owning a Treo Plus has never been more feasible.Mahindra Treo Plus SpecsMs. Suman Mishra, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Ltd., expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “At Mahindra, we actively listen to our customers and their satisfaction is our priority. We’re excited to offer customers with more choices with the introduction of the metal bodied Treo. The Treo Metal Body will continue to delight customers with its reliability, lower TCO and help build their micro-entrepreneurship journey.”In alignment with its customer-centric ethos, Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited introduces the UDAY program, providing Treo buyers with a Rs 10 lakh accident insurance cover for the first year. This initiative underscores Mahindra’s unwavering dedication to prioritizing customer safety and well-being while fostering a sustainable future. More

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    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied Inside Out – New Interior Features Leak

    Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedMost of the visual aspects of Creta EV across exteriors and interiors appear to be the same as the ICE-based modelIn the electric segment, Hyundai currently offers the Kona EV and Ioniq 5. For the mass market, Hyundai is readying the Creta EV. It will be the most affordable Hyundai electric car in India at the time of launch. Creta Electric will take on rivals such as MG ZS EV and upcoming Maruti eVX and Tata Curvv EV.Creta Electric interiors revealedMuch of the interior spaces, centre console, dashboard and other plastic parts appear to be the same as that of ICE Creta. However, one can see an entirely new steering wheel that is a lot more elegant in comparison to the unit in use with ICE Creta. The new steering wheel onboard Creta EV does not have the ‘H’ logo’. The central area is more rounded and has a circular chrome trim, along with a horizontal chrome strip in the centre.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedHyundai EVs like Ioniq 5 don’t have any brand badging on the steering wheel. A similar approach could be used for Creta Electric. Another thing revealed is the drive selector located behind the steering wheel on the right side.This again is something similar to Ioniq 5. Steering mounted controls can be seen as well. Other key features include the seamlessly integrated infotainment and instrument cluster screen. It’s the same unit as used with ICE Creta. Interior spy shots are credited to Pilot on Wheels.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedCreta EV – Equipment listMost of the features for Creta Electric will be borrowed from ICE Creta. Some of the key highlights include dual-tone interiors, leather pack for top trims and power adjustable driver seat.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedCreta EV will have ventilated seats, wireless charger, cruise control, rear AC vents, USB charger and glove box cooling. Other highlights include premium sound system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice commands and OTA updates. A range of connectivity features will be available via Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology.Safety kit will also be similar to ICE Creta. Some key features include ADAS, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, tyre pressure monitoring system, rear parking sensors and camera, front parking sensors and burglar alarm.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedWhat is the range of Creta Electric?Details about Creta EV’s powertrain are not available at this point of time. However, as per industry standards, Creta EV could deliver a range of more than 400 km. It is expected to get multi-level regenerative braking, as seen with other Hyundai electric cars. Features like vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) are also likely. Both AC and DC fast charging options will be available with Creta EV.To get the early bird advantage, Hyundai will be looking to introduce Creta EV in the shortest possible time. The electric SUV could be launched later this year or sometime next year. Creta Electric could be offered at a starting price of around Rs 20 lakh.Source More

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    Tesla India EV Market Entry Expected: Right Hand Ahead

    Tesla Model 3 on test in India. Image – Maitrey GogateTesla India EV Market Entry: Tax Incentives Fuelling The WayTesla’s expected entry into the Indian market marks a strategic move, manufacturing right-hand drive cars in Germany for export to India. This decision meets demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in right-hand drive markets. Aiming to expand its global presence, expected Tesla India operations could be a strong foothold in key emerging markets.India’s recent reduction in import taxes on select EVs offers a significant boost to Tesla’s entry. Fulfilling the condition necessitates a minimum $500 million investment and local production within three years. This move aims to attract foreign investment and foster domestic manufacturing in the EV sector.File photo from 2023. Elon Musk and Narendra ModiRoadmap to Tesla: India’s Factory Location OptionsWhile Tesla is allocating RHD cars for India, the specific models remain undisclosed. India’s provision allowing the import of up to 8,000 cars annually at reduced tax rates presents a promising opportunity for Tesla India’s EV Market entry.Selecting a factory location in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, or Gujarat is a crucial consideration for Tesla. The meticulous site selection process factors in logistical efficiency, skilled labor availability, and proximity to key markets among other decision making factors.Tesla Successful Models – Charging Infrastructure and Dealership ModelIn addition to vehicle production, Tesla prioritises charging infrastructure. By enhancing accessibility and reliability of charging stations, Tesla accelerates transition towards EVs, garnering wider acceptance even from other manufacturers.Tesla operates over 130 stores and galleries globally, spanning 34 countries. These outlets enable direct sales both online and in-person, diverging from traditional dealership models. With minimal marketing budget, Tesla relies on referral programs and word of mouth to bring customers to them. Stores, often in malls, serve as showrooms, educating customers about Tesla’s vehicles and brand. In states with strict dealership laws, Tesla employs mobile shipping-container stores and Airstream trailers to extend its reach, challenging conventional automotive sales practices.There’s Tesla, and There’s BYDGlobally, BYD boasts a diverse product portfolio, selling around 3,024,417 New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in 2023. BYD India, beginning PV sales in 2021, sold 1,997 units by the end of 2022 and 2,038 units by the end of 2023. Its EV portfolio in India includes the newly launched BYD Seal, BYD ATTO 3, and the All-New e6.The government’s ambitious target of achieving a 30 percent EV market share by 2030 presents significant growth opportunities for manufacturers in India. With its global expertise in EV technology, Tesla stands well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities. Elon Musk’s upcoming meeting with the Indian Prime Minister may seem ceremonial, as strategic decisions likely precede it. Expectations for this high-profile meeting include announcements of investment and policy discussions regarding Tesla’s expansion plans in India. More