Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Uno Minda Expands Mobility Safety Portfolio with Launch of Advanced Trumpet Horn Range for Indian Aftermarket

By
Kavitha
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0

Automotive components manufacturer Uno Minda Limited has launched a new range of trumpet horns for the Indian aftermarket, aimed at improving road safety and communication as the country’s mobility sector continues to expand.

The company, a Tier-1 supplier to major automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), said the new trumpet horn series is designed to deliver enhanced sound clarity, controlled audibility, and long-lasting durability while meeting OE-grade quality standards. The range is suitable for both passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles, catering to the growing demand for reliable and high-performance aftermarket components.

Industry observers note that increasing traffic congestion and varied driving conditions across India have raised the importance of clear and effective vehicle horn systems for safety and driver awareness on the road.

Designed for Safety and Performance

According to Uno Minda, the new trumpet horn lineup is engineered to meet the needs of a wide spectrum of customers—from premium passenger vehicle owners seeking refined sound performance to fleet operators requiring durable solutions for demanding operating conditions.

Speaking on the launch, Anand Kumar, Vice President – Sales & Marketing (Aftermarket) at Uno Minda Ltd., said clear on-road communication has become increasingly important amid rising traffic density and diverse driving environments.

He noted that the company has introduced trumpet horns in the 80 mm and 90 mm diameter categories, ranging from performance-focused to premium offerings, covering major vehicle segments.

Key Products in the New Range

At the premium end of the lineup is the E80 12V Electronic Trumpet Horn, which delivers refined sound output and includes a three-year warranty from the manufacturing date. The product features an integrated electronic chip for consistent sound performance, along with reverse polarity protection and plug-and-play installation for enhanced reliability.

For customers seeking compact solutions, the T80 12V Vertical Trumpet Horn with Grill offers a space-saving vertical design with dust- and splash-resistant capability. Another variant, the T80 12V Vertical Trumpet Horn without Grill, is engineered to deliver clearer and more harmonious sound output with extended audibility in a compact form.

The T80 12V Trumpet Horn targets a broader customer base with universal vehicle fitment, durable ABS construction, and clear sound output, making it suitable for both passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles.

Innovative Horn for Commercial Vehicles

Expanding its portfolio for heavy-duty applications, Uno Minda has also introduced the T90 24V Melody Trumpet Horn, designed specifically for commercial vehicles.

The horn is positioned as a replacement for traditional pipe horns and features eight selectable sound tones, offering improved audibility and differentiation for fleet operators operating in high-traffic conditions and on highways.

Built for Indian Road Conditions

Uno Minda said the new trumpet horn range has been manufactured using high-grade materials and subjected to stringent quality testing to ensure resistance to heat, dust, moisture, vibration, and harsh road conditions.

The products are designed for easy installation across multiple vehicle platforms and are available through offline automotive retail outlets as well as online marketplaces such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Uno Minda’s official store.

The trumpet horns are priced between ₹800 and ₹3,400, depending on the model and specifications.

The launch reinforces Uno Minda’s focus on enhancing safety standards in the automotive aftermarket while meeting the evolving needs of India’s rapidly growing vehicle ecosystem.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Launches ‘Urban Cruiser Hyryder Month’ to Promote Strong Hybrid SUV

By
Rajni G
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0

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched ‘Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Month’, a month-long customer engagement campaign aimed at celebrating the success of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and promoting its strong hybrid technology.

The campaign, running from February 16 until the end of March, is being conducted across North India, covering key markets including NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. Through the initiative, Toyota aims to bring customers closer to its Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric technology via immersive test-drive experiences and exclusive customer benefits.

Launched in 2022, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has emerged as a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, with prices starting at ₹10.94 lakh (ex-showroom). The model recently achieved a significant milestone of over 200,000 units in cumulative sales, reflecting growing customer confidence in hybrid mobility solutions.

Positioned as India’s first strong hybrid electric SUV in the B-SUV segment, the Hyryder features Toyota’s Hybrid System (THS) paired with an advanced e-drive transmission. The system enables the vehicle to operate on electric power for up to 40% of the distance and 60% of driving time, offering a quieter driving experience along with a fuel efficiency of 27.97 km/l.

The SUV is offered with two powertrain options. The Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric variant combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 85 kW through an e-drive transmission. Meanwhile, the Neo Drive variant features a 1.5-litre K-series petrol engine with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), available with manual and automatic transmissions as well as 2WD and 4WD configurations.

In terms of design and comfort, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder features a crystal acrylic grille, twin LED daytime running lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior offers premium features such as ventilated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an electronic parking brake.

Technology and connectivity features include a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 55 connected features powered by Toyota i-Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paddle shifters, wireless charging, and multiple USB charging ports.

Safety remains a key focus, with the SUV equipped with six airbags as standard, along with Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Hold Control, all-wheel disc brakes, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and seatbelt pretensioners.

Toyota also highlighted the model’s ownership benefits, including a standard 3-year/100,000 km warranty extendable up to 5 years/220,000 km, along with five years of roadside assistance. The hybrid battery is backed by an 8-year/160,000 km warranty, reinforcing customer confidence in hybrid technology.

As part of the promotional campaign, customers can also avail benefits of up to ₹1 lakh, exchange offers, and flexible financing options, including a Buy Now, Pay Later scheme, aimed at making hybrid mobility more accessible.

Mahindra Reopens Bookings for Limited ‘BE 6 Batman Edition’ Electric SUV After Massive Demand

By
Rajni G
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Mahindra & Mahindra has announced the return of the Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition, reopening bookings for the special edition electric SUV after overwhelming customer demand following its original launch.

The company revealed that the first batch of 999 units of the Batman-themed SUV sold out in just 135 seconds, making it one of the fastest-selling special edition vehicles in the brand’s history. The model was developed in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery through its consumer products division and draws inspiration from The Dark Knight Trilogy.

Due to continued demand from fans and customers who missed the initial booking window, Mahindra has decided to reopen bookings for a limited time. Customers can register their interest on 6 March 2026, while official bookings will begin on 10 March 2026 at 11:00 AM for one day only. Deliveries are scheduled to start from 10 April 2026.

The BE 6 Batman Edition is based on the top-end Pack Three variant featuring a 79 kWh battery, combining electric performance with a distinctive design inspired by the iconic DC superhero.

The limited edition SUV features a custom satin black exterior, R20 alloy wheels, and Alchemy Gold-painted suspension and brake callipers to create a bold contrast. Batman-themed styling elements include the Bat emblem placed on hub caps, quarter panels, windows, and the rear bumper, along with special “BE 6 × The Dark Knight” rear badging.

Inside the cabin, the SUV offers a premium charcoal leather dashboard with gold accents, suede and leather upholstery with sepia stitching, and a Batman Edition plaque on the dashboard. Additional design touches include a gold-accented steering wheel, branded door straps, and custom key fob, while the infotainment system features a Batman-themed welcome animation.

The vehicle also includes unique features such as carpet lamps projecting the Bat emblem and custom Batman-inspired exterior engine sounds, enhancing the themed driving experience.

Mahindra said existing owners of the BE 6 Batman Edition who refer new buyers will receive priority delivery benefits, acknowledging the loyalty of the current customer community.

The revival of the BE 6 Batman Edition reflects Mahindra’s strategy to blend electric mobility with pop culture-inspired design, creating collectible electric vehicles that appeal to enthusiasts and fans alike.

Volvo Cars to Boost EX60 Electric SUV Production After Strong Early Demand

By
Rajni G
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Volvo Cars has announced plans to increase production of its fully electric EX60 SUV in 2026 following stronger-than-expected customer demand across key European markets.

Just weeks after the vehicle’s global reveal, the Volvo EX60 has already recorded order volumes exceeding internal forecasts, particularly in markets such as Sweden and Germany. In Sweden alone, the company has received more than 3,000 orders, supported by a new “Care” offer that includes simplified purchasing, transparent pricing, and three years of free home charging.

According to the company, the pace of order intake for the EX60 has outperformed the early demand seen for the Volvo EX30 following its global debut in 2023, despite the EX30 being positioned in a lower-priced, high-volume segment.

Currently, order books for the EX60 are open only in European markets, while customers in the United States will be able to place orders later this spring.

To meet the rising demand, Volvo Cars is planning to increase production at its Torslanda Plant in Sweden. The automaker is also in discussions with labour unions to keep the factory operational for an additional week during the summer, a move that would mark the first time in the company’s history.

Commenting on the strong response, Erik Severinson said the initial demand for the electric SUV has surpassed expectations, describing it as a positive challenge for the company as it prepares to start customer vehicle production next month.

The EX60 is positioned as a key model in Volvo’s electrification strategy, offering class-leading driving range and ultra-fast charging capabilities that the company says can match the time of a typical coffee stop. The electric SUV is also priced in line with Volvo’s best-selling Volvo XC60, making it an attractive option for customers transitioning to fully electric mobility.

Volvo Cars expects the EX60 to play a major role in accelerating its shift toward an all-electric lineup, while strengthening its presence in the global electric SUV market.

Suzuki Launches ‘e EVERY’ Electric Mini Commercial Van in Japan with 257 km Range

By
Rajni G
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0

Suzuki Motor Corporation has launched its all-new mini-commercial battery electric vehicle (BEV) van ‘e EVERY’ in Japan, marking a significant step in the company’s expansion in the electric commercial vehicle segment.

The e EVERY has been jointly developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation, Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., and Toyota Motor Corporation. The electric van is designed to deliver quiet and powerful EV performance while maintaining the practicality of a compact commercial vehicle for daily business operations.

The vehicle is powered by a 36.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery that offers a driving range of up to 257 km on a single charge, based on the Worldwide-harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC). Suzuki said the range is suitable for everyday commercial use, particularly for urban logistics and local businesses.

The e EVERY features an integrated eAxle system, combining the motor, inverter, and transaxle to provide strong torque that exceeds that of a turbocharged mini vehicle. The battery is mounted under the floor, lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity and improving ride stability and comfort.

Designed for practicality, the electric van offers a spacious cargo area with a maximum load capacity of 350 kg. Inside the cabin, it features a 7-inch TFT colour LCD display, along with multiple storage options including an overhead shelf and a centre console tray to improve convenience during work operations.

Safety features include the “Smart Assist” preventive safety system, along with Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB), side-view lamps, and LED headlamps to enhance visibility and safety during night driving. The van can also be equipped with a digital rearview mirror to improve rear visibility when carrying cargo.

Another notable feature is the vehicle’s vehicle-to-load capability, allowing it to supply electricity during emergencies such as power outages, making it useful for local communities during disasters.

The e EVERY will be offered in two variants – a two-seater and a four-seater – and will be available in three body colours, with the two-seater version offered in two colour options.

The model will be supplied on an OEM basis by Daihatsu, reflecting the ongoing collaboration among Japanese automakers to accelerate electric vehicle development and expand electrified mobility solutions.

Ford SUV Sales Surge in February 2026 as Bronco, Explorer and Expedition Hit 26-Year High

By
Rajni G
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0

Ford Motor Company reported strong demand for its large SUVs in February 2026, with models such as the Ford Bronco, Ford Explorer, and Ford Expedition driving the company’s best combined sales performance for these vehicles in 26 years.

The automaker sold 149,962 vehicles in February, even as overall industry sales declined by around 3 percent during the month. However, the company said its total sales were down 5.5 percent year-on-year, largely due to the discontinuation of several models including the Ford Escape, Ford Edge, and the Lincoln Corsair.

According to the company, strong demand across several segments—especially large SUVs, off-road vehicles and entry-level pickup trims—helped offset the impact of the discontinued models.

Strong Performance from Trucks and Entry-Level Models

Sales of the Ford Maverick totaled 10,387 units, marking a 1.1 percent increase for the month, while entry-level Maverick XL trims saw a 16.4 percent rise in demand.

The Ford Ranger recorded significant growth, with 5,776 units sold, representing a 29.9 percent increase compared with the previous year. Demand for the Ranger XL variant surged 48.5 percent, while the Ranger Raptor posted a 57.1 percent increase in sales.

Meanwhile, the Ford F‑Series continued its dominance in the U.S. market with 49,682 trucks sold in February. Sales for the first two months of 2026 reached 97,663 units, keeping the F-Series ahead of competitors by more than 16,000 units.

Large SUVs Deliver Record Growth

Ford’s large SUV lineup delivered some of the most notable gains during the month. Combined sales of the Bronco, Explorer, and Expedition reached 38,204 units, reflecting a 30.4 percent increase and marking the strongest start for the trio since 2000.

The Bronco recorded a record February with 12,553 units sold, up 27.6 percent year-on-year, while year-to-date sales climbed 23.7 percent to 23,367 units. The Ford Bronco Sport also posted a record month with 11,273 units sold, contributing to strong performance across the Bronco lineup.

Combined, the Bronco family reached 23,826 units in February, a 19.9 percent increase, while year-to-date sales rose to 45,281 vehicles.

The Explorer, described as America’s best-selling three-row SUV, sold 20,100 units in February, representing a 33.4 percent increase compared with the previous year. Sales of the Expedition also grew 26.5 percent to 5,551 units.

Lincoln Brand Sees Growth

Ford’s luxury division Lincoln Motor Company also recorded positive results. The brand sold 7,578 vehicles in February, marking a 12.2 percent increase.

Sales of the Lincoln Aviator jumped 50.1 percent with 2,037 units sold, making it the model’s best February on record. Meanwhile, the Lincoln Navigator posted 1,310 sales, representing a 31.8 percent increase and its strongest February performance in five years.

Ford said the strong performance across SUVs, trucks and off-road vehicles highlights the brand’s appeal to a broad customer base, ranging from entry-level buyers to premium luxury SUV customers.

Honda Cars India Reports Sales of 7,212 Units in February 2026 as Amaze Drives Demand

By
Rajni G
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0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

Honda Cars India Ltd. reported total sales of 7,212 units in February 2026, supported by steady domestic demand and export shipments, the company said in a statement.

The automaker recorded 5,629 units in domestic sales and 1,583 units in exports during the month. The company’s domestic performance remained largely stable compared to February 2025, when it sold 5,616 units in India, while exports declined from 4,707 units in the same period last year.

According to the company, demand during the month was led by popular models such as the Honda Amaze, which continued to attract buyers seeking a practical sedan with strong safety features. Other models including the Honda City and the Honda Elevate also contributed to steady sales volumes.

Commenting on the sales performance, Kunal Behl said the company maintained its sales momentum through February, supported by the popularity of the Amaze and promotional campaigns across its model lineup.

“We maintained our sales momentum through February, driven by strong popularity of Honda Amaze as a practical sedan with outclass safety. Honda City and Elevate also recorded steady volumes with exciting promotions during the month,” Behl said.

He added that the company remains optimistic about market performance as the automotive industry approaches the final month of the financial year.

India’s Passenger Vehicle Market Stays Resilient in December 2025 as SUV Demand Remains Strong

By
Rajni G
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0

India’s passenger vehicle (PV) market maintained stable demand in December 2025, with registrations reaching 378,736 units, according to the latest Retail Market Pulse report released by JATO Dynamics.

The report noted that while volumes moderated sequentially after the festive season, the overall market continued to demonstrate a positive year-on-year trajectory. The decline from 520,300 registrations in January 2026 to 415,300 units reflected a typical seasonal correction following a strong start to the year.

Commenting on the trend, Ravi Bhatia said the slowdown was expected after the festive peak and did not indicate weakening demand. He noted that interest in sport utility vehicles (SUVs) remained strong and that demand was increasingly expanding beyond metro cities.

Recent policy developments have also supported consumer sentiment. The government’s rationalisation and reduction of GST on select automotive categories has slightly improved vehicle affordability, particularly in price-sensitive segments. At the same time, the Reserve Bank of India Consumer Confidence Survey indicates gradual improvement in urban consumer sentiment and stable outlook in rural markets, providing a supportive environment for discretionary purchases such as passenger vehicles.

Among manufacturers, Maruti Suzuki retained its leadership position in the market, supported by its extensive portfolio across entry-level and compact vehicle segments. Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra continued to strengthen their market positions, driven largely by strong demand for SUVs and new product launches.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor India maintained stable performance, while Toyota Motor Corporation benefited from growing consumer interest in hybrid vehicles. Volkswagen Group also recorded one of the strongest growth performances during the period, supported by recent model introductions.

In terms of popular models, the Tata Nexon remained among the top-selling vehicles in the market, followed by the Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Swift, Maruti Suzuki Baleno, and Maruti Suzuki Fronx. Other strong performers included the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R, Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.

SUVs continued to dominate India’s PV market, accounting for more than half of total vehicle registrations. Hatchbacks remained important in value-driven segments, while sedans and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) maintained steady but niche demand.

In terms of powertrain preferences, petrol and diesel vehicles still accounted for the majority of registrations. However, hybrid and electric vehicles are gradually expanding their share, particularly in urban markets.

Geographically, demand growth was more pronounced in urban and rural areas compared with metro cities. Among major urban markets, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune recorded the highest vehicle registrations. At the state level, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu led the market in overall registrations.

The report also highlighted that vehicles from Japanese manufacturers accounted for the largest share of registrations in India, followed by Indian and Korean automakers.

Looking ahead, analysts expect India’s passenger vehicle market to remain stable in early 2026, supported by moderate economic tailwinds, continued SUV demand, and the launch of new vehicle models. According to JATO Dynamics, growth is gradually becoming more balanced across regions and segments, contributing to a more resilient automotive market structure.

SAIC Motor Sales Rise 6.8% in Jan–Feb 2026, NEV and Overseas Growth Drive Momentum

By
Rajni G
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0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

Chinese automaker SAIC Motor reported a 6.8 percent year-on-year increase in vehicle sales during the first two months of 2026, with total deliveries reaching nearly 600,000 units.

According to the company’s latest sales data released on March 4, SAIC Motor recorded wholesale sales of about 269,000 vehicles in February. Combined sales for January and February stood at around 597,000 units, reflecting steady growth and reinforcing the company’s strong market presence.

The growth was largely driven by the strong performance of SAIC Motor’s self-owned brands. Sales from these brands reached 401,000 units during the two-month period, marking a 14 percent increase year-on-year and accounting for 67.2 percent of the group’s total sales. Within this segment, SAIC Motor Passenger Vehicle recorded sales of 139,000 units, surging 44.8 percent compared with the same period last year. Commercial vehicle brand Maxus delivered 33,000 vehicles, while SAIC-GM-Wuling contributed 206,000 units, maintaining stable growth momentum.

The company also reported steady growth in its new energy vehicle (NEV) segment. SAIC Motor sold around 157,000 NEVs in January and February, registering a 6.4 percent year-on-year increase. Premium EV brand IM Motors posted a strong 69.4 percent sales surge during the period, with cumulative deliveries of the IM LS6 surpassing the milestone of 100,000 units.

Meanwhile, SAIC Motor Passenger Vehicle sold 50,000 NEVs during the two months, reflecting a significant 334.7 percent year-on-year jump. The MG4 also continued its strong performance, recording monthly sales exceeding 10,000 units for five consecutive months. NEV sales from SAIC-GM reached about 9,000 units, growing over 216 percent year-on-year, while SAIC-GM-Wuling delivered approximately 70,000 electric vehicles.

Overseas markets emerged as another major growth driver for the automaker. SAIC Motor reported a 48.9 percent year-on-year surge in international sales, with 204,000 vehicles sold overseas in the first two months of 2026. The MG brand maintained its position as the best-selling Chinese car brand in Europe for the 11th consecutive year, with 49,000 units sold in the region during January and February.

Looking ahead, SAIC Motor plans to accelerate new model launches in the first half of 2026. The upcoming lineup will include models such as the ROEWE i6, IM LS9 Hyper, IM LS8, SAIC Volkswagen ID.ERA 9X, and SAIC Audi E7X, among others. The company expects this expanded product portfolio to strengthen its market presence and support future growth.

SAIC Motor said its continued focus on innovation, new energy mobility, and global expansion is expected to further enhance its competitiveness and drive the next phase of development.

Renault Blends Art and Electric Mobility with ‘Pop Art Car’ Exhibition on Champs-Élysées

By
Rajni G
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0

Renault has launched the “Pop Art Car” exhibition at the Champs-Élysées, bringing together pop culture, contemporary art and the automobile in a unique showcase.

Developed in collaboration with the Renault Fund for Art and Culture, the exhibition explores the relationship between Pop Art, Urban Art and automobiles, presenting vehicles not only as mobility solutions but also as creative canvases and cultural icons.

Speaking about the initiative, Arnaud Belloni said the exhibition highlights Renault’s longstanding connection with popular culture. “Renault has always belonged to the street, to people and to the images that define our era. The exhibition shows how design, innovation and creativity feed one another,” he noted.

Catherine Gros added that cars have long inspired artists because they represent both everyday life and emotional symbolism. The exhibition, she said, presents art and automobiles together to offer a fresh perspective on modern popular culture.

The showcase features works from both historic and contemporary artists, including Invader, whose 2008 mosaic artwork “Pole Position”—inspired by Formula 1 and video game culture—is being displayed publicly for the first time. Other artists featured include Victor Vasarely, Erró, Jean Faucheur, D*Face, Lee Quinones, and John ‘Crash’ Matos.

Alongside artworks, the exhibition highlights several innovative Renault show cars that merge design and electric mobility. These include the Suite N°4 concept by designer Mathieu Lehanneur, the electric reinterpretation of the Renault 5 by Pierre Gonalons, and the Twingo redesign by Sabine Marcelis. Sculptural art pieces created from Renault vehicles by British artist Dan Rawlings are also part of the display.

Another highlight is the R17 Electric Restomod designed with Ora Ïto, blending retro styling with futuristic electric technology. Visitors can also see the Renault 5 Turbo 3E show car, an electric performance concept featuring dual electric motors delivering 280 kW (380 hp) and 700 Nm of torque.

The exhibition also features the Filante Record 2025, an experimental electric vehicle built as a laboratory for efficiency. Equipped with an 87 kWh battery, the demonstrator set an efficiency benchmark by covering 1,008 km in under 10 hours with energy consumption of 7.8 kWh/100 km.

To engage visitors, Renault has planned a series of events during the exhibition period, including a live artistic performance by artist Joshua Vides, panel discussions with designers and artists, DJ sets, and guided tours exploring how Renault’s industrial history inspires contemporary creativity.

Through the Pop Art Car exhibition, Renault aims to reinforce the Carwalk’s position as a cultural venue where automotive innovation, art and urban culture intersect, offering visitors an immersive experience of both design and electric mobility.

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